All I can say is now I know why women love the spa so much!
My mother-in-law surprised me with a facial and a massage at a relatively new spa in Charleston, IL. She made the appointment for yesterday afternoon. I dropped Madalyn off at my cousin's house (who has an in-home daycare) and I headed down to Charleston. I was so nervous but it was AMAZING.
I have had a massage before - while I was pregnant and in my 2nd trimester with Mady. Mark got me a 30 minute massage for Mother's Day. However, I wasn't very impressed. It was at a place here in town and it was a good quality massage but I was discouraged by the fact that my "30 minute massage" started the minute I walked in the door. I think I only got a good 15-20 minutes of massage. The place I went to yesterday was completely the opposite. I had the massage first and she did a wonderful job! I had every inch of my upper body massaged on a heated table - even my fingers and my head. I tend to get knots in my shoulders and upper back so this was the main focus but I have to say there is something nice about having the palms of my hands massaged! Who knew? And when she was massaging my head, I was starting to fall asleep... reminded me of when I was little and my mom would rub my head. (I think all moms do this and I'm sure all children love it! Mine does!) The other fun part was the hot towel she gave me afterward to clean off the oil. She pulled it out of this refrigerator looking contraption and it was steaming hot. It felt so nice though - until it cooled off and I got cold! :)
Next, I was off to my facial. I was really nervous about this and I honestly wasn't sure it could get any better than the massage. I was wrong! I LOVE facials. That was my first one ever and I'm already looking at making another appointment. I laid in a reclining (& massaging) chair while she "facialed" away. Lots of stuff being rubbed into my face, wiped off with super warm cloths, a massage of my shoulders, hands, fingers, face, a mask was applied and then warm cloths over my entire face to heat it, steam was applied, an ozone treatment to get rid of bacteria, and of course moisturizers. Now I obviously don't know in what order all that was done and I really don't care but when I was done my face felt softer than my baby's bottom and I must say she has a pretty soft one!!! She gave me some tips on keeping my skin clean and I'm going to go back so she can help me get a clearer complexion. I'm really looking forward to the changes I might see.
http://parkhillsspa.com/
So, yeah, I had a great afternoon. If anyone wants to go with me, let me know and we can ride together. The prices are extremely reasonable - I was even surprised that the cost was as low as it was. And the facility is immaculate!
On another note, Madalyn and I went to dinner with some friends last night at Chili's. I consider them my "mom and dad away from home" and they were watching out for me while Mark was away. It was really fun. Mady did great. Ironically, the lady sitting next to me who leaned over to tell me my daughter was beautiful turned out to be a cousin whom I haven't seen in at least 10 years! She lives in Charleston and we ran into each other at Chili's! Crazy!
Friday, February 29, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
15 month check up!
Well, Madalyn had her 15 month check up today. I was dreading it as I don't like to be by myself when she gets her shots (i cry as much as she does!) but I was also looking forward to seeing how much she weighs. Here are her stats:
Weight: 21lb (she's in the 19th percentile)
Length: 32'' (87th percentile)
Percentiles rank the position of an individual by indicating what percent of the reference population the individual would equal or exceed. So, in weight, Mady weighs the same or more than 19 percent of the reference population. On the other side of that, she weighs less than 79 percent of that same population. She's always been on the lower side of the weight charts but is definitely a tall little girl.
The doctor said she's doing great. He said that cognitively she's very smart (I think she gets that from her daddy!) She was keeping him entertained which was funny. She's such a ham. I asked him about her possibly being in a growth spurt now and he said that because she's a little small in weight that she could always be in a "growth spurt." I asked this because she has been sleeping A LOT lately. Yesterday she took 2 naps. I woke her up from her 2nd at 5:15 and then she went to bed at 7pm. She didn't wake up until 9AM this morning!!!! I told Mark this and his reaction was "Daddy leaves and everyone decides to go on vacation!"
She's also apparently getting her molars which could be part of the reason for all the sleeping. She's had a bit of a runny nose and not been eating well, all of which are teething symptoms also. So, who knows...
She got some vaccines today also. She cried pretty hard during the shots and then the nurse told me that she could pick out a sticker afterwards. We went over to the desk and the nurse started rattling off "here's Big Bird, Dora...." There was no reaction from Mady and she asked me if Mady watched tv and knew any characters. I told her that she doesn't watch tv and that the only character she might know is Elmo because she has a couple of Elmo books. Sure enough the nurse pulled out an Elmo sticker and Mady's eyes lit up and she smiled. She also got a big bird one to take home. She proudly held one in each hand until we got out of the parking lot. It was cute.
Weight: 21lb (she's in the 19th percentile)
Length: 32'' (87th percentile)
Percentiles rank the position of an individual by indicating what percent of the reference population the individual would equal or exceed. So, in weight, Mady weighs the same or more than 19 percent of the reference population. On the other side of that, she weighs less than 79 percent of that same population. She's always been on the lower side of the weight charts but is definitely a tall little girl.
The doctor said she's doing great. He said that cognitively she's very smart (I think she gets that from her daddy!) She was keeping him entertained which was funny. She's such a ham. I asked him about her possibly being in a growth spurt now and he said that because she's a little small in weight that she could always be in a "growth spurt." I asked this because she has been sleeping A LOT lately. Yesterday she took 2 naps. I woke her up from her 2nd at 5:15 and then she went to bed at 7pm. She didn't wake up until 9AM this morning!!!! I told Mark this and his reaction was "Daddy leaves and everyone decides to go on vacation!"
She's also apparently getting her molars which could be part of the reason for all the sleeping. She's had a bit of a runny nose and not been eating well, all of which are teething symptoms also. So, who knows...
She got some vaccines today also. She cried pretty hard during the shots and then the nurse told me that she could pick out a sticker afterwards. We went over to the desk and the nurse started rattling off "here's Big Bird, Dora...." There was no reaction from Mady and she asked me if Mady watched tv and knew any characters. I told her that she doesn't watch tv and that the only character she might know is Elmo because she has a couple of Elmo books. Sure enough the nurse pulled out an Elmo sticker and Mady's eyes lit up and she smiled. She also got a big bird one to take home. She proudly held one in each hand until we got out of the parking lot. It was cute.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Hospital Part II
Monday 2/25 3:20 pm Well, "here we go again." I got up at 4 am this morning to drive to Chicago for my pre-screening appointment (I was exhausted as I couldn't get to sleep till after midnight). I realized that I couldn't find one of my inhalers (Jenn ended up finding it down by Fred...evidently he was feeling a little yucky), so I called WalGreens at 4:15 to put in an order for a refill. Of course, I had used up my last refill, so the pharmacist asked me if I had a home number for my physician so that he could call in a refill? Want to make a doctor's night? Call him at 4:15 am because you are stupid and lost your inhaler and that you are leaving for Chicago in 45 minutes. I explained this to the pharmacist and he said he could do one more refill, after he asked me if I'd been to my dr recently. I was like, of course. He told me some people do what I've done and they haven't been to their dr in years. This was not a conversation that I wanted to be having at this time of day.
I ended up packing up, kissing Jenn and Mady goodbye, stopping by Walgreen's and hitting the road by 5 am. Traffic was horrible, and it took me 3:15 to go 160 miles, but I made it. Prescreening went ok. Found out that I absorb 40% of my fat intake (Dan only absorbs 30%. He was the one that told me this, so I figure I'm not breaking a HIPAA violation, since Mindy told Dan my lab levels. Comes around goes around. I'll probably be the one getting in trouble!) So, I felt pretty good about that. Mindy asked if I wanted to stay on the drug for a year again. Said I could go up to 3 enzymes per meal. Nah, not really. I did ask her about TOBI, the antibiotic inhaler. That study sounds really interesting. We're looking into it. I'm finding that these studies although a nuisance, can be a source of really decent side income.
Met Dan and Katie at IHOP. Had a cup of coffee with them. They're heading home for the night. Katie is coming in on Wednesday to stay. Dan is bringing is Wii for the week that we are in the hospital.
Stopped by UIC to meet with my supervisor/co-workers. Things are going well. We're getting inspected this week, so I didn't hang around too long. Got updated on pertinent information, and was only there about an hour. I was able to give my co-worker a bottle of Goji. He's a health nut and I've been talking to him about the MLM product that I've been involved with for about 2 years now. Once he heard about the health benefits and the amazing residual income and potential, he's signing up as a distributor. I haven't had time to work the business for a while now, so it will be nice to start to ramp things up again from the plateau where it's been at for a couple of months.
Hanging out at Caribou coffee now, taking advantage of the free internet (for those of you that have read previous blogs, you'll know what I've gone through to get free internet).
Staying with Joseph and Esther Reisinger tonight in Oak Park. He was my head usher in our wedding. Great guy. I've known him for about 15 years and call him a dear friend. We haven't hung out as much since we've both gotten married, so it will be cool to reconnect.
Jenn sent me a text picture this morning. Madalyn learned how to climb on her wooden rocking horse this morning without assistance. I miss them horribly already. I hate it that I miss these precious moments...Jenn taught Mady how to "greet people" today...things like that.
Tuesday 2/26 12:48 pm Well this morning went infinitely better than the last time that I came to the hospital. I ended up getting to bed at about 9:00 last night, set my alarm for 5, and was able to pop up out of bed. Left Joseph/Esther's by 5:15 and, boy did it snow last night. It was windy and my car was covered. No problems though.
I left an hour and 45 minutes early because I thought the traffic was going to bad, and the weather wouldn't help. I cruised the entire way here. It took me 1/2 as long to get here as before and it was more than 2x the distance. Go figure. Got here at 6:10 am, which was nice because I didn't pull into the parking lot with an ulcer, and I could relax getting unpacked. I walked into the hospital and they already knew which room I was going to be in (before, I had to wait awhile to get a bed). I got in, got all unpacked and settled. Dan pulled in at 6:30, and he had the same experience.
I had to fast this morning because I had to do the 3 hour starch tolerance test again. I eat 4 pieces of bread, and then they take my blood every 15 minutes to see how the sugars are converted in me. Good thing they put in an IV for the blood draws, it's a lot of sticks otherwise.
Finally had breakfast at noon today. I think I had too many carbs, as I'm about ready to take a nap. Already finished one book I brought, would like to finish the other 3 I've started at home recently and get a good jump reading through the Old Testament. Jenn just called. Mady has her 15 month doctor's check up today. She's going to get some shots. I wish I was there to support her.
Wednesday 2/27 9:57 am Had a good night's sleep last night. I think I was pretty tired and I'm just getting over a cold of sorts (I did 3 breathing treatments yesterday). Woke up at 5:30 this morning. I read a good portion of Deuteronomy. I'm about 2/3 of the way through. I would like to be done with Joshua and started on Judges by the time I leave here. Working on finishing Boundaries by Henry Cloud and my 2 investing books I've started.
Watched "A Year to Remember" chronicling the 04-05 Illini basketball team last night. It brought a tear to my eye they were so good. Oh, the glory days.
Started my restricted diet this morning at 9 am. I was really hungry (the theme for the next 3 days). Took the blue dye caps to start the study. Yah for me.
The internet computer in the children's lounge is still being fussy. Hence the reason that emails are delayed right now, as I have to go down to the business center.
I had an awesome idea a couple of days ago. We have decided to go to Columbia, South Carolina to visit some friends, probably in May. We will also go to Myrtle Beach, maybe head up to Charleston. I dunno, just take some time away as a family. I looked into the cost of flying vs driving, and it will a better deal if we drive (we want to leave before Memorial Day, before the gas costs skyrocket, considering they hit an ALL-TIME high in the last 48 hours.) I also have Marriott reward points, so we can stay a few nights free there. For 2 plane tickets, even now, it was over $1400 for us to get to Columbia. We would still need to rent a car too. So, my great idea is to do a research study through the Columbia Hospital, so that they will pay our travel/hotel expenses. I did this when I was in college and wanted to go to Baltimore (I did a study at Johns Hopkins). It's brilliant. Simply brilliant. They currently have a study open for CF patients, I just need to wait a month after this study is over before entering a new one. As long as they will accept me into the study. We'll see.
Thursday 2/28 10:27 Dr Boas came in this morning for my daily check up. He asked me how things were going. I told him that I was getting stopped up and experiencing the same signs and symptoms as last time. We both think that I am on the placebo. He told me if I start to get distended or constipated, he will pull me off the study, as it's not worth the risks, since my lab results will be identical to the last time I was in.
Got a few phone calls from old friends in the last day or so. An old buddy I've known for 15 years called this morning. He and his family live here in Chicago. He obviously didn't know the details of the study, as he asked if I was portable and could come over for dinner. "Yes, yes I can." I would LOVE to go over for dinner. I can't of course, since I'm on a scientific diet. Last night I had one small chicken breast, some dry egg noodles with broccoli added. To really spice it up, they give me a tiny little bowl of Parmesan cheese. A container of peaches, and I called it a night. Yummy.
Dan brought his Wii with him this week. We finally broke it out last night. It was a blast. He killed me in Tennis but redemption was sweet when we played Baseball.
Other than that, doing a bit of work here and there and trying to get as much rest as I can. We are working out the details of my new contract with my new job transfer into sales/consulting. They are putting the cart in front of the horse a little, so I had to slow them down a little bit until I have the contract in writing and can evaluate it, without going on hear say.
For what it's worth, I'm feeling better now than when I came in. Have had a great amount of time to think about life and the value of family. Boy, I sure do miss them something fierce. I'll probably not do something like this study again. It's not worth being away from them for so long in the name of science.
Friday 2/29 10:11 Whew, only another 2 days to go. Things are moving right along and I'm getting into a pretty good rhythm now. Jenn had a good day at the spa with my mom last night and she was treated to Chili's by some friends of ours. I'm jealous. I asked her to tell me everything that she had, leaving out no details. Dan and I watched a movie yesterday (3:10 to Yuma - something I wouldn't normally watch, and don't recommend) afternoon and then I took a long hot shower. Before dinner, I was getting so sleepy that I took about a 45 minute nap. That was a mistake as I couldn't get to sleep until 11:30 last night.
Had a long chat with Mindy, the research nurse yesterday afternoon. I found out that when I did the 3-hour starch challenge test, that all the results came back normal. This is good, as it's a determinant for diabetes (much like the 3-hour glucose tolerance test that pregnant women undergo to test for gestational diabetes). In the starch test, I spiked after the 4 pieces of bread and then my glucose came back down to normal within the expected time, so my pancreas and corresponding insulin reacted normally, so for now, no diabetes in the future. Diabetes has a 10% prevalence rate in patients with CF due to scarring in the pancreas. This was really good news to me, as more than 50% of the fellow CFers I know have CFRD. Also found out I only absorb/digest 49% of my total fat intake. (Sorry girls!) Hence the reason I have a hard time gaining weight. If I stay on the study drug for a year, I will only need to take 2 enzymes with each meal as opposed to 6 of my old ones, but I'll have to come back up here 6 more times in the upcoming year. I don't know. We'll see.
I finished up Deuteronomy and I started on Joshua this morning. I really have been enjoying the book of Joshua. It's a much easier read than the Pentateuch. God's Sovereignty is so divine and awesome. We serve an incredible God.
Other than that, there wasn't a whole lot to report in the last day or so. I'll keep this one short and to the point.
Saturday 3/1 10:30 Ah, only one more day to go. We watched Hoosiers yesterday. It was the only full movie that I brought with me, and I've seen it many times, but it's great each time. Had a good day of work yesterday. Found out that I officially landed my first account. (I'm not even fully in sales yet!) I have one that I'm still trying to close and 4 more that gave me a verbal commitment, which I should finalize in the next week. It's pretty exciting. It made my day.
I started to read one of the legal thrillers that I brought with me, and I was only 3 pages into it and he started dropping the f bomb, so that was the end of that story. Of all the books that I could have (or should have) brought, I chose that one. Oh well, I still have one book that I'm working on right now, so at least I have that. Besides, Dr Boaz said that he would try to be in by 9 am to release me tomorrow. We shall see.
I took the blue dye cap with my breakfast this morning. Yah, which means that I am officially off of the restricted diet, so I can eat whatever I want to. I think Dan and I are going to go out tonight and see the town. I'm looking forward to it, this hospital is about to make me go mad. I'm absolutely looking forward to holding Mady and Jenn tomorrow. Jenn put Mady on the phone today and she said "Mom-eeee" and DAD!" Mommy is more whiney and Dad is Very emphatic. It was hilarious. Made me smile...I'm smiling as I write this.
Jenn got her card that I sent yesterday. I hope that I don't ruin the surprise, but if she looks real hard, there will probably be another one in the mail today (I just called her, it didn't come, so it will come on Monday...argh!) I always try to do little things when I have to be gone to let her know that I'm thinking of her. The card I sent for today's delivery is cool. I'll let Jenn tell you about it if she wants. I had fun picking them out at the gift shop. It was kinda funny though, at the counter, these 2 blue haired ladies had little signs up all over the place: "No $100 bills accepted. No 50$ bills accepted. No 20$ bills accepted. No checks allowed." Then, I went to buy a stamp, and they said I couldn't buy a single stamp, I had to buy a whole book. I think I got them mad when I said that all I wanted was one stamp, and I only had a $20...they were not amused. I bought a book of stamps with it...hey, you win some, you lose some.
I had a good talk with Dr Boaz this morning. I'm really happy to be done with the study. Unfortunately, I lost 6 pounds in the last week (sorry ladies). Just got a call from Jenn. The CF Institute sent us a nice gift card to Best Buy for our participation at the conference. That was very, very nice of them. I really appreciated it.
Sunday 3/2 Dr Boaz came in around 9:00. We talked about the possibility of me coming up to the CF Institute once a year just to do a thorough exam of my treatment protocol. He left around 9;30, I packed up, left at 9:45, was home by 12:15, and enjoyed the afternoon with my two favorite girls. I only have to go up to Chicago 2 more Saturdays, and the study will be over! Thank you Jesus!
I ended up packing up, kissing Jenn and Mady goodbye, stopping by Walgreen's and hitting the road by 5 am. Traffic was horrible, and it took me 3:15 to go 160 miles, but I made it. Prescreening went ok. Found out that I absorb 40% of my fat intake (Dan only absorbs 30%. He was the one that told me this, so I figure I'm not breaking a HIPAA violation, since Mindy told Dan my lab levels. Comes around goes around. I'll probably be the one getting in trouble!) So, I felt pretty good about that. Mindy asked if I wanted to stay on the drug for a year again. Said I could go up to 3 enzymes per meal. Nah, not really. I did ask her about TOBI, the antibiotic inhaler. That study sounds really interesting. We're looking into it. I'm finding that these studies although a nuisance, can be a source of really decent side income.
Met Dan and Katie at IHOP. Had a cup of coffee with them. They're heading home for the night. Katie is coming in on Wednesday to stay. Dan is bringing is Wii for the week that we are in the hospital.
Stopped by UIC to meet with my supervisor/co-workers. Things are going well. We're getting inspected this week, so I didn't hang around too long. Got updated on pertinent information, and was only there about an hour. I was able to give my co-worker a bottle of Goji. He's a health nut and I've been talking to him about the MLM product that I've been involved with for about 2 years now. Once he heard about the health benefits and the amazing residual income and potential, he's signing up as a distributor. I haven't had time to work the business for a while now, so it will be nice to start to ramp things up again from the plateau where it's been at for a couple of months.
Hanging out at Caribou coffee now, taking advantage of the free internet (for those of you that have read previous blogs, you'll know what I've gone through to get free internet).
Staying with Joseph and Esther Reisinger tonight in Oak Park. He was my head usher in our wedding. Great guy. I've known him for about 15 years and call him a dear friend. We haven't hung out as much since we've both gotten married, so it will be cool to reconnect.
Jenn sent me a text picture this morning. Madalyn learned how to climb on her wooden rocking horse this morning without assistance. I miss them horribly already. I hate it that I miss these precious moments...Jenn taught Mady how to "greet people" today...things like that.
Tuesday 2/26 12:48 pm Well this morning went infinitely better than the last time that I came to the hospital. I ended up getting to bed at about 9:00 last night, set my alarm for 5, and was able to pop up out of bed. Left Joseph/Esther's by 5:15 and, boy did it snow last night. It was windy and my car was covered. No problems though.
I left an hour and 45 minutes early because I thought the traffic was going to bad, and the weather wouldn't help. I cruised the entire way here. It took me 1/2 as long to get here as before and it was more than 2x the distance. Go figure. Got here at 6:10 am, which was nice because I didn't pull into the parking lot with an ulcer, and I could relax getting unpacked. I walked into the hospital and they already knew which room I was going to be in (before, I had to wait awhile to get a bed). I got in, got all unpacked and settled. Dan pulled in at 6:30, and he had the same experience.
I had to fast this morning because I had to do the 3 hour starch tolerance test again. I eat 4 pieces of bread, and then they take my blood every 15 minutes to see how the sugars are converted in me. Good thing they put in an IV for the blood draws, it's a lot of sticks otherwise.
Finally had breakfast at noon today. I think I had too many carbs, as I'm about ready to take a nap. Already finished one book I brought, would like to finish the other 3 I've started at home recently and get a good jump reading through the Old Testament. Jenn just called. Mady has her 15 month doctor's check up today. She's going to get some shots. I wish I was there to support her.
Wednesday 2/27 9:57 am Had a good night's sleep last night. I think I was pretty tired and I'm just getting over a cold of sorts (I did 3 breathing treatments yesterday). Woke up at 5:30 this morning. I read a good portion of Deuteronomy. I'm about 2/3 of the way through. I would like to be done with Joshua and started on Judges by the time I leave here. Working on finishing Boundaries by Henry Cloud and my 2 investing books I've started.
Watched "A Year to Remember" chronicling the 04-05 Illini basketball team last night. It brought a tear to my eye they were so good. Oh, the glory days.
Started my restricted diet this morning at 9 am. I was really hungry (the theme for the next 3 days). Took the blue dye caps to start the study. Yah for me.
The internet computer in the children's lounge is still being fussy. Hence the reason that emails are delayed right now, as I have to go down to the business center.
I had an awesome idea a couple of days ago. We have decided to go to Columbia, South Carolina to visit some friends, probably in May. We will also go to Myrtle Beach, maybe head up to Charleston. I dunno, just take some time away as a family. I looked into the cost of flying vs driving, and it will a better deal if we drive (we want to leave before Memorial Day, before the gas costs skyrocket, considering they hit an ALL-TIME high in the last 48 hours.) I also have Marriott reward points, so we can stay a few nights free there. For 2 plane tickets, even now, it was over $1400 for us to get to Columbia. We would still need to rent a car too. So, my great idea is to do a research study through the Columbia Hospital, so that they will pay our travel/hotel expenses. I did this when I was in college and wanted to go to Baltimore (I did a study at Johns Hopkins). It's brilliant. Simply brilliant. They currently have a study open for CF patients, I just need to wait a month after this study is over before entering a new one. As long as they will accept me into the study. We'll see.
Thursday 2/28 10:27 Dr Boas came in this morning for my daily check up. He asked me how things were going. I told him that I was getting stopped up and experiencing the same signs and symptoms as last time. We both think that I am on the placebo. He told me if I start to get distended or constipated, he will pull me off the study, as it's not worth the risks, since my lab results will be identical to the last time I was in.
Got a few phone calls from old friends in the last day or so. An old buddy I've known for 15 years called this morning. He and his family live here in Chicago. He obviously didn't know the details of the study, as he asked if I was portable and could come over for dinner. "Yes, yes I can." I would LOVE to go over for dinner. I can't of course, since I'm on a scientific diet. Last night I had one small chicken breast, some dry egg noodles with broccoli added. To really spice it up, they give me a tiny little bowl of Parmesan cheese. A container of peaches, and I called it a night. Yummy.
Dan brought his Wii with him this week. We finally broke it out last night. It was a blast. He killed me in Tennis but redemption was sweet when we played Baseball.
Other than that, doing a bit of work here and there and trying to get as much rest as I can. We are working out the details of my new contract with my new job transfer into sales/consulting. They are putting the cart in front of the horse a little, so I had to slow them down a little bit until I have the contract in writing and can evaluate it, without going on hear say.
For what it's worth, I'm feeling better now than when I came in. Have had a great amount of time to think about life and the value of family. Boy, I sure do miss them something fierce. I'll probably not do something like this study again. It's not worth being away from them for so long in the name of science.
Friday 2/29 10:11 Whew, only another 2 days to go. Things are moving right along and I'm getting into a pretty good rhythm now. Jenn had a good day at the spa with my mom last night and she was treated to Chili's by some friends of ours. I'm jealous. I asked her to tell me everything that she had, leaving out no details. Dan and I watched a movie yesterday (3:10 to Yuma - something I wouldn't normally watch, and don't recommend) afternoon and then I took a long hot shower. Before dinner, I was getting so sleepy that I took about a 45 minute nap. That was a mistake as I couldn't get to sleep until 11:30 last night.
Had a long chat with Mindy, the research nurse yesterday afternoon. I found out that when I did the 3-hour starch challenge test, that all the results came back normal. This is good, as it's a determinant for diabetes (much like the 3-hour glucose tolerance test that pregnant women undergo to test for gestational diabetes). In the starch test, I spiked after the 4 pieces of bread and then my glucose came back down to normal within the expected time, so my pancreas and corresponding insulin reacted normally, so for now, no diabetes in the future. Diabetes has a 10% prevalence rate in patients with CF due to scarring in the pancreas. This was really good news to me, as more than 50% of the fellow CFers I know have CFRD. Also found out I only absorb/digest 49% of my total fat intake. (Sorry girls!) Hence the reason I have a hard time gaining weight. If I stay on the study drug for a year, I will only need to take 2 enzymes with each meal as opposed to 6 of my old ones, but I'll have to come back up here 6 more times in the upcoming year. I don't know. We'll see.
I finished up Deuteronomy and I started on Joshua this morning. I really have been enjoying the book of Joshua. It's a much easier read than the Pentateuch. God's Sovereignty is so divine and awesome. We serve an incredible God.
Other than that, there wasn't a whole lot to report in the last day or so. I'll keep this one short and to the point.
Saturday 3/1 10:30 Ah, only one more day to go. We watched Hoosiers yesterday. It was the only full movie that I brought with me, and I've seen it many times, but it's great each time. Had a good day of work yesterday. Found out that I officially landed my first account. (I'm not even fully in sales yet!) I have one that I'm still trying to close and 4 more that gave me a verbal commitment, which I should finalize in the next week. It's pretty exciting. It made my day.
I started to read one of the legal thrillers that I brought with me, and I was only 3 pages into it and he started dropping the f bomb, so that was the end of that story. Of all the books that I could have (or should have) brought, I chose that one. Oh well, I still have one book that I'm working on right now, so at least I have that. Besides, Dr Boaz said that he would try to be in by 9 am to release me tomorrow. We shall see.
I took the blue dye cap with my breakfast this morning. Yah, which means that I am officially off of the restricted diet, so I can eat whatever I want to. I think Dan and I are going to go out tonight and see the town. I'm looking forward to it, this hospital is about to make me go mad. I'm absolutely looking forward to holding Mady and Jenn tomorrow. Jenn put Mady on the phone today and she said "Mom-eeee" and DAD!" Mommy is more whiney and Dad is Very emphatic. It was hilarious. Made me smile...I'm smiling as I write this.
Jenn got her card that I sent yesterday. I hope that I don't ruin the surprise, but if she looks real hard, there will probably be another one in the mail today (I just called her, it didn't come, so it will come on Monday...argh!) I always try to do little things when I have to be gone to let her know that I'm thinking of her. The card I sent for today's delivery is cool. I'll let Jenn tell you about it if she wants. I had fun picking them out at the gift shop. It was kinda funny though, at the counter, these 2 blue haired ladies had little signs up all over the place: "No $100 bills accepted. No 50$ bills accepted. No 20$ bills accepted. No checks allowed." Then, I went to buy a stamp, and they said I couldn't buy a single stamp, I had to buy a whole book. I think I got them mad when I said that all I wanted was one stamp, and I only had a $20...they were not amused. I bought a book of stamps with it...hey, you win some, you lose some.
I had a good talk with Dr Boaz this morning. I'm really happy to be done with the study. Unfortunately, I lost 6 pounds in the last week (sorry ladies). Just got a call from Jenn. The CF Institute sent us a nice gift card to Best Buy for our participation at the conference. That was very, very nice of them. I really appreciated it.
Sunday 3/2 Dr Boaz came in around 9:00. We talked about the possibility of me coming up to the CF Institute once a year just to do a thorough exam of my treatment protocol. He left around 9;30, I packed up, left at 9:45, was home by 12:15, and enjoyed the afternoon with my two favorite girls. I only have to go up to Chicago 2 more Saturdays, and the study will be over! Thank you Jesus!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
The Duck is "Cradding"
Sounds funny, doesn't it? We got a call about a week ago from the Psychology Dept at the U of I. We're not sure how they knew that we had an infant, but they called us none the less. Matter of fact, they didn't even know how they got our number. The only association they have is with the Infant Cognition Lab, but we have never taken Madalyn there either. Who knows.
They invited us to do a study on recognition, so we took Mady over there yesterday. We walked in, and while Jenn was filling out all the waivers and pertinent documents, Mady had a blast with the 3 college girls who cooed over her and played toys with her. She liked this little vibrating duck, where you pull the string and it hops around on the floor. She also played with Little People and some plastic food.
For the study, one of the gals took Mady and I next door where we were seated in a chair. The room was pretty dark and Mady sat on my lap. The idea was they were going to see how she learns and responds to a new words. "Crad" was the new word they were going to teach her. They put these black-out sunglasses on me so that I can't help Mady, or give subconscious indicators to her what the right answer should be.
Then they start a video on these 2 screens next to each other. This woman's soothing voice starts saying over and over again, "The duck is cradding. The duck just cradded. The duck is cradding." Evidently, one of the screens had this duck doing something that they say was "cradding." (Again, I don't know what it was.) Then, after about a minute of this, they switch and the video asks "Which duck is cradding?" Both TVs show different things, and Madalyn is asked to communicate which duck is cradding. And somehow, they watch to see what Madalyn will do. I know she was looking back and forth, I'm not sure if she pointed or smiled or what not. After about a minute of this, it was over and we were able to join Jenn next door.
Madalyn played some more with toys and for her involvement, she got a free book of her choice. We ventured back out into the current snow storm, and headed home. They will keep us on file, and they study kids up until the age of 3. It was fun, it would be nice to read the final thesis to see their findings.
They invited us to do a study on recognition, so we took Mady over there yesterday. We walked in, and while Jenn was filling out all the waivers and pertinent documents, Mady had a blast with the 3 college girls who cooed over her and played toys with her. She liked this little vibrating duck, where you pull the string and it hops around on the floor. She also played with Little People and some plastic food.
For the study, one of the gals took Mady and I next door where we were seated in a chair. The room was pretty dark and Mady sat on my lap. The idea was they were going to see how she learns and responds to a new words. "Crad" was the new word they were going to teach her. They put these black-out sunglasses on me so that I can't help Mady, or give subconscious indicators to her what the right answer should be.
Then they start a video on these 2 screens next to each other. This woman's soothing voice starts saying over and over again, "The duck is cradding. The duck just cradded. The duck is cradding." Evidently, one of the screens had this duck doing something that they say was "cradding." (Again, I don't know what it was.) Then, after about a minute of this, they switch and the video asks "Which duck is cradding?" Both TVs show different things, and Madalyn is asked to communicate which duck is cradding. And somehow, they watch to see what Madalyn will do. I know she was looking back and forth, I'm not sure if she pointed or smiled or what not. After about a minute of this, it was over and we were able to join Jenn next door.
Madalyn played some more with toys and for her involvement, she got a free book of her choice. We ventured back out into the current snow storm, and headed home. They will keep us on file, and they study kids up until the age of 3. It was fun, it would be nice to read the final thesis to see their findings.
New Addition (to our blog, that is!)
If you haven't noticed, Mark has added a new link to a new blog on our main page. It's on the left hand side and is called Making Cents Of It All. If you click on Save a Penny you'll be taken to that blog. Mark has really enjoyed doing various things to save a buck here or there. He'll often be posting about ways he has gotten deals or things he has learned. I'm also going to be posting at various times about great things I've found. (As you can tell, we like deals!) So, check it out periodically.... I hope you enjoy!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Close Call
I've escaped a few close calls over the years while driving. I've also seen a few accidents 1st hand. When I was in college, a gal in front of me pulled out into oncoming traffic at a stop sign and got T-boned. That was crazy. The metal crunching metal sound is sickening, and once you hear it, you'll never forget it. Those of you that know what I'm talking about are probably nodding your head and smiling right now. When I was living in Chicago during my internship, I saw a Toyota Tacoma do a 360 on I-290 while on snow, cross 3 lanes of traffic and not hit a car or a guard rail and escape unscathed (during the morning rush hour commute, doing 50 MPH!)
Yesterday was about as close as I've personally ever been to getting hit and escape without a scratch. I was coming back from a client visit in Danville. I was about 3 miles from my exit here in Champaign. The roads were snow covered, granted, so we were only doing about 60 mph on interstate 74. This baby blue Dodge Intrepid was in the lane to my left, slowly passing me. I look over as I hear the "sliding on snow" sound. He started to spin around right next to me, but was sliding away from me, towards the far guard rail. I also for a brief second looked down at his tires, and it looked as though he had slammed on the brakes when he started to slide (a no, no). He ended up doing a 180, facing backwards, while still going forwards. A brand new black GMC Yukon was right behind him, and he ended up going around the Dodge on the shoulder, and also escaped. The Dodge and the GMC literally missed each other by inches. By this time, I had already passed them both. It was as close as I've even been without being in an accident (knock on wood, but I haven't caused an accident yet). My heart was pounding out of my chest by this point. It's crazy how fast things happen and split second decision making on my part (to tap the brakes and not hit them hard) was the difference between being in an accident and driving by a near miss.
Yesterday was about as close as I've personally ever been to getting hit and escape without a scratch. I was coming back from a client visit in Danville. I was about 3 miles from my exit here in Champaign. The roads were snow covered, granted, so we were only doing about 60 mph on interstate 74. This baby blue Dodge Intrepid was in the lane to my left, slowly passing me. I look over as I hear the "sliding on snow" sound. He started to spin around right next to me, but was sliding away from me, towards the far guard rail. I also for a brief second looked down at his tires, and it looked as though he had slammed on the brakes when he started to slide (a no, no). He ended up doing a 180, facing backwards, while still going forwards. A brand new black GMC Yukon was right behind him, and he ended up going around the Dodge on the shoulder, and also escaped. The Dodge and the GMC literally missed each other by inches. By this time, I had already passed them both. It was as close as I've even been without being in an accident (knock on wood, but I haven't caused an accident yet). My heart was pounding out of my chest by this point. It's crazy how fast things happen and split second decision making on my part (to tap the brakes and not hit them hard) was the difference between being in an accident and driving by a near miss.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Cystic Fibrosis Conference
Jennifer and I were invited to participate in this year's CF Winter Retreat this past weekend in Glenview by Chicago. We drove up and stayed with some good friends of ours (Paul and Tammy Timm and their family) in Lemont on Friday night. We woke up early Saturday morning so that I could have a quick drug study check up at 7 am before the conference started.
We weren't really sure what to expect with the retreat. We had heard good things about it, and it was almost a no-brainer to go since the clinic was only about 5 minutes from the Glen Club where it was held.
The Glen Club was quite nice. It was essentially a country club with rooms for events like this.
When we arrived, we had a nice breakfast of fruit/bagels/pastries and coffee. It was nice, but hardly a meal for someone on a weight gain diet. I was hungry by 9, and breakfast was at 8. At least the catered lunch was Awesome. Lots of pasta, meatballs, salads and meat. I was shaking I was so hungry. By the time I was done, I was loosening my belt and going for coffee...
The different sessions (general assembly, small hand-picked seminars) were quite good. The one session that impressed me the most was definitely the one that Dr Woo from USC spoke at. She was incredible. Very articulate, very well-versed. She is, simply put, a pioneer in lung transplants. She is on the cutting edge of research and science.I was thoroughly impressed and actually leaned over to Jenn and said that if, God forbid, I should need a double lung, I will have her perform it. It was really eye opening, and her success rate is unparalleled.
Jennifer and I shared on an adult panel during the 2:00 session. We each had an opportunity to talk about how CF had impacted us personally. Jenn did champion work. I was very impressed with her. She did a fine job.
I was able to field questions regarding adult life with CF, the IVF process and parenthood. I wish that we had more time, as I felt an audience connection, but alas I'm thankful for the time that we had.
Lisa Bentley also spoke. She's a 10 time Ironman triathlon champion (including the big one in Hawaii). She gave us a great motivational speech on getting out there and exercising and not letting obstacles get in our way. Her passion was apparent to all. She taught us to work hard, have a good attitude and not give up. She was inspirational, exuberant and genuine. I was so glad that they brought her in. Oh, by the way, did I mention that she also has Cystic Fibrosis?...
Lisa Bentley and I
Jennifer and I with Mindy, my research coordinator and clinical nurse and Dr. Boas, a true CF clinician and researcher
Jennifer and I with Dan and Katie from DeKalb. Dan and I are going through the drug study together. They are becoming good friends and are dear Believers.
We weren't really sure what to expect with the retreat. We had heard good things about it, and it was almost a no-brainer to go since the clinic was only about 5 minutes from the Glen Club where it was held.
The Glen Club was quite nice. It was essentially a country club with rooms for events like this.
When we arrived, we had a nice breakfast of fruit/bagels/pastries and coffee. It was nice, but hardly a meal for someone on a weight gain diet. I was hungry by 9, and breakfast was at 8. At least the catered lunch was Awesome. Lots of pasta, meatballs, salads and meat. I was shaking I was so hungry. By the time I was done, I was loosening my belt and going for coffee...
The different sessions (general assembly, small hand-picked seminars) were quite good. The one session that impressed me the most was definitely the one that Dr Woo from USC spoke at. She was incredible. Very articulate, very well-versed. She is, simply put, a pioneer in lung transplants. She is on the cutting edge of research and science.I was thoroughly impressed and actually leaned over to Jenn and said that if, God forbid, I should need a double lung, I will have her perform it. It was really eye opening, and her success rate is unparalleled.
Jennifer and I shared on an adult panel during the 2:00 session. We each had an opportunity to talk about how CF had impacted us personally. Jenn did champion work. I was very impressed with her. She did a fine job.
I was able to field questions regarding adult life with CF, the IVF process and parenthood. I wish that we had more time, as I felt an audience connection, but alas I'm thankful for the time that we had.
Lisa Bentley also spoke. She's a 10 time Ironman triathlon champion (including the big one in Hawaii). She gave us a great motivational speech on getting out there and exercising and not letting obstacles get in our way. Her passion was apparent to all. She taught us to work hard, have a good attitude and not give up. She was inspirational, exuberant and genuine. I was so glad that they brought her in. Oh, by the way, did I mention that she also has Cystic Fibrosis?...
Lisa Bentley and I
Jennifer and I with Mindy, my research coordinator and clinical nurse and Dr. Boas, a true CF clinician and researcher
Jennifer and I with Dan and Katie from DeKalb. Dan and I are going through the drug study together. They are becoming good friends and are dear Believers.We left around 4:00 and hit rough traffic going in and then out of Chicago. Funny thing was that we decided to stop around 7:00 to get some dinner at a KFC. We pulled into the parking lot and there was a big bus of kids and adults getting out of the bus and running into the KFC. Jenn and I both groaned, knowing that this was going to take a little longer than expected. We decided to go through the drive-thru when we passed the 40+ group of people and Jenn says, "Is that Heidi Beck?" We had pulled into the same place as the Big Fish group that had also gone to Chicago for the day. We said hi to everyone, got our dinner (by way of the drive-thru), drove down to Jenn's folks, picked up Madalyn and drove back to Champaign. Made it home about 10:30, exhausted.
My eyes were opened at the conference. Yes, I learned about some new medications that will help, but most of all, I was reminded what is most important to me. When I was sharing during the panel, I shared that perspectives change when you have children. That is oh so true. I was reminded on what is important in life. My family needs me, and Jenn and I made a commitment to do everything possible to keep me healthy. Working out regularly, doing all my treatments, taking all of my meds and getting good nights of sleep. I have a newly realized heightened appreciation for the good health that I have, and I want to keep it. Who knows...maybe I'll run a marathon some day!
My eyes were opened at the conference. Yes, I learned about some new medications that will help, but most of all, I was reminded what is most important to me. When I was sharing during the panel, I shared that perspectives change when you have children. That is oh so true. I was reminded on what is important in life. My family needs me, and Jenn and I made a commitment to do everything possible to keep me healthy. Working out regularly, doing all my treatments, taking all of my meds and getting good nights of sleep. I have a newly realized heightened appreciation for the good health that I have, and I want to keep it. Who knows...maybe I'll run a marathon some day!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Freebies!
Many of you know that I like to find deals. I love garage sales. I love coupons. I love free things. Period. Everyday I visit a couple of different websites and get information about ways to be thrifty and even ways to get free things. It's not that I don't have money to spend... it's just that I really like to get good deals! I like being thrifty!!!
Back to my story... I have been signing up for different "freebies" as they are called. I've signed up for books, razors, sippy cups, magazine subscriptions and yes even air freshners! It's really quite fun. This past Tuesday (yep, Super Tuesday as mark put it in an earlier blog post) I was able to actually use my free coupon that I had received for a Febreze Noticeables Scented Oil Air Freshner. The crazy thing was $8.00 at Walmart and I gave her my coupon and BAM! it was FREE!!! How fun. It works great too by the way... Febreze is definitely onto something with this one. ha.
So, if you're interested feel free to check out www.freebies4mom.com
Hopefully you don't become as addicted to being thirfty as I have done... But do have some fun and get something for free!!!!
Back to my story... I have been signing up for different "freebies" as they are called. I've signed up for books, razors, sippy cups, magazine subscriptions and yes even air freshners! It's really quite fun. This past Tuesday (yep, Super Tuesday as mark put it in an earlier blog post) I was able to actually use my free coupon that I had received for a Febreze Noticeables Scented Oil Air Freshner. The crazy thing was $8.00 at Walmart and I gave her my coupon and BAM! it was FREE!!! How fun. It works great too by the way... Febreze is definitely onto something with this one. ha.
So, if you're interested feel free to check out www.freebies4mom.com
Hopefully you don't become as addicted to being thirfty as I have done... But do have some fun and get something for free!!!!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Super Tuesday
(added Information in parenthesis by Jenn)
If you can't tell from the title, it took me a couple of days to finally have the time and energy to sit down and write this. Super Tuesday nothing. Super rough Tuesday times 6! Daniel Powter wasn't the only one having a Bad Day. And McCain got the republican nod for Illinois and not Romney (who has since dropped out), but I won't go there. Regardless, I know you've all had days like this, but I thought you might find it interesting all things considering.
Woke up to a pretty typical day. I got a phone call at about 9:00 am Event #1. The truck wouldn't start in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Jenn calls from inside Wal-Mart because she forgot her cell phone, so communication immediately became an issue. I called Gallo-Miller who had just finished our truck last week, thinking that something that they did caused a short. Dave Miller met me up there in the parking lot. I ended up just fiddling with the battery posts and she started up. Dave offered for me to come back to the shop and he tightened up the neg post connection, which was loose, and we haven't had an issue since. (let's not forget that I had the carseat in the truck with me and Mady was right in the middle of her nap when I called Mark. He woke her up and stuck her old infant carseat in the car in order to take her with him. When they got to Walmart, she was scrunched in the carseat, graham cracker in hand, but happy as a clam!)
Got back to the house and found out that a friend of ours from church had passed away from a brain tumor. The Lord was merciful in that he took him home quick. Jenn and I were both very saddened by the news. Event #2.
We got the mail and found out that we still owed $100 for some major dental work that we had done back in November, and were just now getting the bill. Event #3. Not a big deal, I thought. I will call and they will write off the bill considering the fact that when I paid for all of the dental work in November, they assured me that I paid in full. No such luck. They underestimated the insurance payment. Argh. Ok.
I got a call right after this from Enterprise Rental car (we had a 2008 Dodge Magnum for 29 days while our truck was being fixed). I knew that we had an $800 max for rental car insurance, but the night that I picked up the car, Enterprise assured me repeatedly that if we hit our max, they would work with the body shop and our insurance to get an extension, no worries, they would call us if there were any questions. Evidently, they didn't follow through on their plan. Event #4. Country insurance only paid $800, which we knew, and that we are now evidently responsible for the balance of $191. No biggie I thought, I will call Country and explain to them the situation and they will give us an extension and write-off the balance. Not so much. Country told me that it was ultimately my responsibility. Yes, I know this, but I explained what Enterprise told me the night I picked up the car. Country Insurance told me that they had no right to say that to me. How was I supposed to know this? I've never had a rental car except for my trips to Ohio for work, and that was for business, and only for one day. I called Enterprise back, asked if they would write it off, citing bad customer service. They said that I knew about the max. I told them that they were supposed to call me if I met my max and I didn't have an extension. They said that they tried to call County on 4 different days, and didn't know that I didn't have an extension until AFTER I returned the car. I offered to settle with them for half. They agreed, and I dished out a second $100 for the day.
And then it started to rain. Oh my goodness it rained. And it got warm, and all the 5 inches of snow that we had also melted...and ran right into our basement...Event #5. By about 5 that afternoon, we had copious amounts of watering seeping into our finished basement. I got out the shop vac and we ended up taking out from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday night about 40 gallons of water out of our basement. It just simply wouldn't stop. We've been here 3 years and not had an episode like this. (For what it's worth, I went and bought a sump pump today and I'm going to install it after getting some good advice from our friends - our basmement's never had one before). I took some trim work off the walls so that the moisture would dry out behind all the wood work I put up after we bought the house. We are concerned with mold growing, which obviously would be hazardous with my CF. It's pretty dry now. We've had the fireplace running to dry it out and 2 fans and the dehumidifier running non stop. It's drying up, but our light gray carpet is getting discolored, and the musty smell is noticeable. At least the carpet doesn't have a pad, so I don't think the carpet is ruined. And it only soaked about 1/3 of the basement.
We went to bed exhausted after cleaning and vacuuming for hours on end (Jenn was a champ through it all!). We fell into bed and turned on our air purifier/noise maker to help drown out my snoring. And...it didn't turn on, the motor had burned up. Event #6. Jenn was much more upset than I was. She ended up sleeping on the couch. Evidently I really do snore, and she can't sleep, even with Daryl covering her ears. Daryl is her body pillow. I call him her body guard. Daryl comes between us during the night sometimes. I don't like Daryl. Down with Daryl. Woke up at 4 am to go down and clean the basement the next morning.
At least Wednesday was better. I took our air purifier to Electrolux where I bought it 6 years earlier and got a free replacement. (The funny thing was that the guy traded it out with thinking that we would go ahead and buy a new $75 filter for it. Nope. Mark traded it out and said no thank you to the offer for a filter and walked out the door. Little did that guy know - all we need it for is noise!)
The water has gone down, but it still needs shampooed, and I'm not convinced it's totally dry. I guess it could be worse...we could have a foot of water across our basement and it had ruined all of our stuff... I found out that we didn't have water back up damage insurance on our home owner's insurance. We do now...a $150,000 structure/personal property basement policy!
If you can't tell from the title, it took me a couple of days to finally have the time and energy to sit down and write this. Super Tuesday nothing. Super rough Tuesday times 6! Daniel Powter wasn't the only one having a Bad Day. And McCain got the republican nod for Illinois and not Romney (who has since dropped out), but I won't go there. Regardless, I know you've all had days like this, but I thought you might find it interesting all things considering.
Woke up to a pretty typical day. I got a phone call at about 9:00 am Event #1. The truck wouldn't start in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Jenn calls from inside Wal-Mart because she forgot her cell phone, so communication immediately became an issue. I called Gallo-Miller who had just finished our truck last week, thinking that something that they did caused a short. Dave Miller met me up there in the parking lot. I ended up just fiddling with the battery posts and she started up. Dave offered for me to come back to the shop and he tightened up the neg post connection, which was loose, and we haven't had an issue since. (let's not forget that I had the carseat in the truck with me and Mady was right in the middle of her nap when I called Mark. He woke her up and stuck her old infant carseat in the car in order to take her with him. When they got to Walmart, she was scrunched in the carseat, graham cracker in hand, but happy as a clam!)
Got back to the house and found out that a friend of ours from church had passed away from a brain tumor. The Lord was merciful in that he took him home quick. Jenn and I were both very saddened by the news. Event #2.
We got the mail and found out that we still owed $100 for some major dental work that we had done back in November, and were just now getting the bill. Event #3. Not a big deal, I thought. I will call and they will write off the bill considering the fact that when I paid for all of the dental work in November, they assured me that I paid in full. No such luck. They underestimated the insurance payment. Argh. Ok.
I got a call right after this from Enterprise Rental car (we had a 2008 Dodge Magnum for 29 days while our truck was being fixed). I knew that we had an $800 max for rental car insurance, but the night that I picked up the car, Enterprise assured me repeatedly that if we hit our max, they would work with the body shop and our insurance to get an extension, no worries, they would call us if there were any questions. Evidently, they didn't follow through on their plan. Event #4. Country insurance only paid $800, which we knew, and that we are now evidently responsible for the balance of $191. No biggie I thought, I will call Country and explain to them the situation and they will give us an extension and write-off the balance. Not so much. Country told me that it was ultimately my responsibility. Yes, I know this, but I explained what Enterprise told me the night I picked up the car. Country Insurance told me that they had no right to say that to me. How was I supposed to know this? I've never had a rental car except for my trips to Ohio for work, and that was for business, and only for one day. I called Enterprise back, asked if they would write it off, citing bad customer service. They said that I knew about the max. I told them that they were supposed to call me if I met my max and I didn't have an extension. They said that they tried to call County on 4 different days, and didn't know that I didn't have an extension until AFTER I returned the car. I offered to settle with them for half. They agreed, and I dished out a second $100 for the day.
And then it started to rain. Oh my goodness it rained. And it got warm, and all the 5 inches of snow that we had also melted...and ran right into our basement...Event #5. By about 5 that afternoon, we had copious amounts of watering seeping into our finished basement. I got out the shop vac and we ended up taking out from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday night about 40 gallons of water out of our basement. It just simply wouldn't stop. We've been here 3 years and not had an episode like this. (For what it's worth, I went and bought a sump pump today and I'm going to install it after getting some good advice from our friends - our basmement's never had one before). I took some trim work off the walls so that the moisture would dry out behind all the wood work I put up after we bought the house. We are concerned with mold growing, which obviously would be hazardous with my CF. It's pretty dry now. We've had the fireplace running to dry it out and 2 fans and the dehumidifier running non stop. It's drying up, but our light gray carpet is getting discolored, and the musty smell is noticeable. At least the carpet doesn't have a pad, so I don't think the carpet is ruined. And it only soaked about 1/3 of the basement.
We went to bed exhausted after cleaning and vacuuming for hours on end (Jenn was a champ through it all!). We fell into bed and turned on our air purifier/noise maker to help drown out my snoring. And...it didn't turn on, the motor had burned up. Event #6. Jenn was much more upset than I was. She ended up sleeping on the couch. Evidently I really do snore, and she can't sleep, even with Daryl covering her ears. Daryl is her body pillow. I call him her body guard. Daryl comes between us during the night sometimes. I don't like Daryl. Down with Daryl. Woke up at 4 am to go down and clean the basement the next morning.
At least Wednesday was better. I took our air purifier to Electrolux where I bought it 6 years earlier and got a free replacement. (The funny thing was that the guy traded it out with thinking that we would go ahead and buy a new $75 filter for it. Nope. Mark traded it out and said no thank you to the offer for a filter and walked out the door. Little did that guy know - all we need it for is noise!)
The water has gone down, but it still needs shampooed, and I'm not convinced it's totally dry. I guess it could be worse...we could have a foot of water across our basement and it had ruined all of our stuff... I found out that we didn't have water back up damage insurance on our home owner's insurance. We do now...a $150,000 structure/personal property basement policy!
Friday, February 1, 2008
It's a sad day when the biggest excitement is...
from a SIPPY CUP!
As many of you know, we've been working with Madalyn for a while now on drinking her milk out of a cup. She'll guzzle her water out of a cup but when I substituted the water with milk, she would spit it out. She only would drink her milk if it was in a bottle. I have been wanting to get rid of the bottles ever since she turned a year old but so far it wasn't happening and so I was learning to deal.
Wednesday I went to get her milk for her after her nap and something told me to put it in a cup. I had to run in the other room so I set her milk, in the cup, in the middle of the floor. Next thing I knew she was walking around drinking it! I was so excited that I was dancing around and having her give me "fives" so that maybe she realize it was a big thing. I was so excited! She drank a bit out of it with dinner but wouldn't touch it before she went to bed.
Yesterday she wouldn't use the cup at all with milk. We were right back to where we were before!
This morning I woke up to Mady screaming in the living room. Apparently Dad had tried to give her her milk in a cup and she was totally not having anything to do with it. Then at lunch I decided to try a different cup.... What was I thinking all along....? I put her milk in a little cheap plastic random cup and she started guzzling it! She drank her milk during all meals today except breakfast! soooo exciting! The true test will be if she takes it in the morning! I'm so ready to pack up the bottles - they are actually already in a plastic bag just waiting to be put in storage. Hopefully we have a good thing going here...
As many of you know, we've been working with Madalyn for a while now on drinking her milk out of a cup. She'll guzzle her water out of a cup but when I substituted the water with milk, she would spit it out. She only would drink her milk if it was in a bottle. I have been wanting to get rid of the bottles ever since she turned a year old but so far it wasn't happening and so I was learning to deal.
Wednesday I went to get her milk for her after her nap and something told me to put it in a cup. I had to run in the other room so I set her milk, in the cup, in the middle of the floor. Next thing I knew she was walking around drinking it! I was so excited that I was dancing around and having her give me "fives" so that maybe she realize it was a big thing. I was so excited! She drank a bit out of it with dinner but wouldn't touch it before she went to bed.
Yesterday she wouldn't use the cup at all with milk. We were right back to where we were before!
This morning I woke up to Mady screaming in the living room. Apparently Dad had tried to give her her milk in a cup and she was totally not having anything to do with it. Then at lunch I decided to try a different cup.... What was I thinking all along....? I put her milk in a little cheap plastic random cup and she started guzzling it! She drank her milk during all meals today except breakfast! soooo exciting! The true test will be if she takes it in the morning! I'm so ready to pack up the bottles - they are actually already in a plastic bag just waiting to be put in storage. Hopefully we have a good thing going here...
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