Hi everyone! It has been some time since I've written a blog, and thought maybe it was time I give a little update. I've received comments as to my wearing a leg brace at times, so I thought it best to let my buds know how things are going. I hope I don't bore you with the subject, but, you know me, just love that "My Schwannoma!" song title and medical discovery and the progress I'm making -- one day at a time!

Hmmm....where do I begin

On some days, I have absolutely no indication of even having the tumor or herniated disks. Then, on other days Hello, and here we are again! Tingling sensations and/or loss of strength when I stand. But, that's when we put that brace on and shout to the world, "Move out of the way -- Momma is coming through!"

The headaches are continuing and the TIAs as well, but I'm just thankful the ER is only a half a mile away -- so, when I feel this is a different sort of feeling going through my body and more severe than I'm getting somewhat used to, my hubby jumps in the car and we're set to go. So, overall, I'm trying to keep all my bases covered and, so far, so good. The next specialist appointment may shed more light on these headaches, mini-strokes and abnormal blood readings. But until then, cardio, strength, yoga, anything to remain flexible is a super huge part of my day!

So, no need to worry my friends! If you know me, I love a challenge and I'm set to continue to strengthen the stomach muscles -- as they help to strengthen the back as well. I'm still refusing (I'm such a stubborn bug sometimes) to go on any medications to deaden the nerve endings -- as, sorry, doctors -- I'm on enough for other chronic conditions and I'm not about to add any more to my list unless and until I have no choice. But, for now, I have a choice, and I hope I continue to in the months ahead.

But, the funny thing about this whole latest medical issue is that it has given me a different outlook when it comes to other areas of my life. It's kind of like little pieces of the puzzle are fitting together and all at the same time!

My job and how things have been going there and how I've been emotionally drained by others' actions. Is it really worth it??? A friend of mine asked me a question awhile ago -- "How much money do you have to have to die?" Funny sort of question -- but it makes a person think. If every day wears you down more and more until there's nothing left for your body to fight with health-wise, is it worth it? So, I'm going to look into possibly taking the necessary classes, etc., and work with the elderly in an assisted-living or nursing home type position. The pay may or may not be the same -- but the smiles and knowing you can make a difference in someone's life -- to me, that's worth it!

Friends! What happened to the old group of us that went out just to share a pizza and the laughs? I used to be the planner and got everyone together for a fun evening! The sad thing is that one of our friends passed away a year or so ago, and somehow those get-togethers may not feel the same -- he was always so caring and loved a good laugh or two (or three....) luv ya, Al! I know you're in good hands and a better place, and with no more pain. But, I'll always miss him sitting at the end of the table and grabbing the first piece of What a guy and what a missed friend! Maybe it's time to plan those parties and enjoy each other's company again! And, it would be so worth it!

Parents! I always knew that the symptoms of Parkinson's were increasing with my Dad and that my Mom had a lot on her shoulders with daily living and caring and watching over him -- as he was always so active and still tries to be -- but it's difficult to let him go out to the garage, etc., and know that he's okay or that he hasn't fallen. Sorry, Dad, you can't go on that tractor any more. Sorry, Dad, you probably shouldn't be cutting the grass even with the riding lawnmowers. The jarring from doing so, could and has caused problems for him later on in the evening hours where he will drop on his knees. How do you tell someone that you soooo love not to do the things he used to and, only because it's for his own good and safety? How does his baby of the family (Me, at the age of 51!) provide as much care, love and more to the people that I love the most? They are 200% plus worth it!

So, have you put my little puzzle pieces together? If you have, the answer comes down to Life! That's what it's all about. No taking a day for granted, no thinking that your parents will always be there, no thinking that I must have the job that I have now in order to provide for my family, no just remembering friends and the past! Today is a new day, despite the challenges! The tumor, TIAs and more are here, have and there will be more coming I'm sure. But, can I worry about them? Yes, to a point, but I can't make any of them disappear. So, no need to ruin the day worrying as each new day of living and loving life is worth it!

Look around you -- your friends, family and more! Concentrate on what matters the most to YOU, my super buds! Show the love -- show the smiles -- and mean it! If you need to make changes in your life for the better - go for it! Don't be afraid to try it -- remember, you only live once! And, I still haven't figured out how to answer my friend's question on the amount of money a person needs to have in order to die -- because I'm not even trying to calculate it or anywhere near that point that I feel the need to give it a thought!

I hope I didn't ramble too much for you, my fingers do like to do the talking, I will admit! But, I'm wishing everyone a safe and wonderful July 4th Holiday Weekend and remember............

Live and Love for Today Everybody!!