SBECKER526's SparkPeople Blog

Waiting to hear about cat

Sun, 19 May 2013 13:31:35 EST

Our 18 year-old cat is in surgery this Sunday afternoon. Bob and I are keeping busy and holding positive thoughts. I do not want to miss the vet's call. I changed my exercise routine around so I am working out at home.

Bob trained this cat from a kitten. This is his best friend. He seems very quiet.

And now the cat!

Fri, 17 May 2013 19:18:50 EST

We have an 18 year-old cat who charms us all day and night if we let him. Today he showed signs of dehydration and other problems. I called his vet and got him seen. He is at the hospital now.

Bob and I missed the cat so much. I fired up my Kindle and went to Black Cat videos. It helped Bob feel better.

Well, we now have medical appointments for our Cat Sammy when he comes home. Guess I need to think about moving nearer to our doctors' offices. We need a hig...

New Challenge with Diabetes and Peritoneal Dialysis

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:58:03 EST

My husband is a trooper when it comes to changes in medications and procedures. His glucotrol is no longer helping his type 2 diabetes. He receives transfers of dextrose soluions (5 liters of 4.5% dextrose and 5 liters of 2.25% dextrose) and keeps 1 liter in his abdomen during the day. This has his diabetes conditions elevated with blood sugars over 300. He also was on heavy doses of blood pressure medication due to his heart attack, cardiac failure and kidney failure.

We are...

New Challenge - Co Team leader

Tue, 14 May 2013 17:31:47 EST

I decided to try something new. My recuperation seemed slow; I wanted to learn a new skill. I love using the Internet and like to learn more about SparkPeople. Hence I agreed to be a co-team leader of Challenged by Arthritis team.

I had guidelines by the preceding person, Hope2B. I signed up for the Leadership Team. I had 4 weeks to gradually learn how to do different things. The AHA moment came when I could get an email every time a new person joined the team. The email g...

Remembering Our Mothers

Sun, 12 May 2013 12:19:57 EST

Bob's mother died when he was 19. The circumstances were tragic so the memories have a taint of sadness. Today we remember the good times he had with her. I always put a geranium on her grave.

My mother lived to age 88. She and I gave my father care after his stroke and aneurysm for almost 30 years. I have so many memories of her that are positive along with typical daughter memories.

I find it comforting to sit on the bench near the graves and spend time in prayer....

The Importance of Friends

Sat, 11 May 2013 20:09:20 EST

I have wonderful friends who really care. They are there if I need them. I am there for them as well. I do not have much family so my friends are my lifeline to balance.

I am blessed.

Taking time to enjoy life

Fri, 10 May 2013 09:25:45 EST

Today I woke up and read the newspaper leisurely. I answered some email and wrote condolences to a friend's family.

I also took time to meditate. I recently purchased DVDs of beaches with the waves rolling in at different times of day. The ocean and sounds of the surf bring me rest and peace.

I enjoy cooking. It is a hobby now. I like organic foods and find the tasks to be pleasant. I can see my creativity in what I make.

I do love exercising.
<...

On the mend

Tue, 7 May 2013 23:40:51 EST

I met with my surgeon and got a great report. My outside stitches are gone. I have 2 more weeks of restricted exercise. I will adhere to her recommendations. May 21st is my first day of freedom!

I plan to write up my robotic hysterectomy experience on the DaVinci pages. It may help someone who is unsure about the procedure. I was operated upon at 7:30 am and went to the recovery room at 11 am. I got to my hospital room by 5:30 pm and walked in the hallway at 9 pm. I did the...

Office Day and Opportunity House Event

Mon, 6 May 2013 10:31:03 EST

I decided I needed an office day. I have some clutter and paperwork to push out. Hopefully I will have that under control by noon.

I am going to throw myself into a good training workout. I hope to do 20 minutes of cardio prior to it.

I signed up for the Preview Party and Souper Bowl at my gym. Opportunity House has a wonderful outreach to homeless people. Many churches work with them to feed the homeless. I started that initiative in my church almost 30 years ago...

Great Trip

Sun, 5 May 2013 18:47:14 EST

I joined East Penn Association of School Retirees on their trip to Gettysburg. Bob Fleck made the day so meaningful. He really lives American History. I also enjoyed the buffet after the day in beautiful weather with good people!

Going to Gettysburg for the day

Fri, 3 May 2013 23:01:41 EST

I'm eager to join some friends and make more of them as I journey with the East Penn Association of School Retirees. The folks are retired from Kutztown, Fleetwood, and Brandywine Heights School Districts. They are a lively bunch of people.

As we make our trip to the battlefield a friend of mine, Bob Fleck, will portray a soldier. We will have a great time.

I will enjoy my time away.

Beautiful weather

Thu, 2 May 2013 19:36:29 EST

I really enjoyed the sunshine today. I walked in the neighborhood again today. I'm meeting more of my neighbors. I got groceries and went to the dialysis center with my husband. We got all our changes updated (food program, diabetes center meeting, his new insulin pen, and recent blood sugars).

We got the invitation to the peritoneal dialysis support group dinner and session in June. We will go. The seminar should be helpful along with the Q&A.

Bob rode with me t...

Choices and Saying No

Wed, 1 May 2013 18:58:06 EST

I was a people pleaser in my career. I wanted to succeed as a technology director and also as a teacher. I was a perfectionist. I wanted my life ordered as much as possible.

Now I am true to me and God. I go to prayer in times of doubt, uncertainty, and fear. I find solace in meditation and walking a labyrinth. I try to consider all sides of an issue. My life is calmer and more peaceful.

I am no longer a perfectionist. I cannot cure me or Bob of chronic illnesses...

Better Day

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:23:47 EST

Whew! The last week has been a blur. It had high and low points to say the least.
I am hoping for more average moments. I think I am adjusting to the results of my surgery.

My blood test showed great liver functions. I was worried last week when I had poor readings. The aftermath of surgery seemed to be the real reason.

I did my modified training. I may try a few more things. I notice more energy.
We had a 2 hour meeting with the diabetes educator today....

Reality

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 21:19:51 EST

Walking is great. Light chores are going better. Some Tai Chi moves work. Billy Banks stuff is too tough right now.

I am noticing more energy - especially if I sniff Essense of Peppermint. I am taking my naps most afternoons. I did grocery shop today. I got just what I needed and skipped a few things as the cart would be too heavy to push. I will get them another day.

I was just so active prior to surgery. It is hard to be changed so quickly.
I am adju...

Plan to do some exercise tonight

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 15:46:27 EST

I am limited in what I can do since my surgery.
I hope to do 15 minutes of Tai chi
I hope to do 10 minutes of stretching at the end of the workout.
I hope to do some Billy Banks cardio kickboxing exercise with modifications (30 min)
I walked for 30 minutes so far.

Time at home

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 23:20:36 EST

I will have 2 days to do things at home. I am still restricted due to surgery, but hope to complete paperwork. I want to cook a new recipe. I plan to walk at the market and outside.

I am trying to rest and get better. Motion however is critical for my healing and for my arthritis

More lifelong learning

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:13:16 EST

I will accompany my husband to his training on the use of insulin pens and his devices to measure blood sugar. I will be helping him use insulin correctly and do the documentation. I will also attend any other trainings. It is good to be his support person.

We were able to cut back on medications with his dialysis. We did stabilize his solution requirements and have the edema under control. He gets his epogen and ferahyme as needed.

I am hopeful that he will be mo...

Better Ending to a Non Perfect Day

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:31:24 EST

I reached out to the cleaning specialists. One stepped forward and helped out. Plus Bob and I tried creatively to find ways to move heavier things. She is a very caring person.

I am attempting to deal with stress and being prohibited from exercising which is my best way to handle stress. One pastor reached out from reading my posts. Many friends checked in to see if we were okay. Well I do need help with stress and my physical limitations.

Quite a day

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:31:11 EST

I decided to get a massage today. My therapist, Gabi, was awesome. We talked about my sore abdomen (from surgery) and then focused on a healing (maybe Reiki) based treatment. She modified things so much and made me feel better.

I am blessed with a trainer, Lisa, who really goes the extra mile. She has patiently transformed my workouts to things that meet the strict criteria of my surgeon. I am still seeing her 3 times a week. I am walking and doing steps as well.

I...

Returning to normal

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 14:14:24 EST

I got out to church today. I felt wonderful, but was tired when I got home. I stayed to chat with the Parish Nurses about Bob's blood sugars and diabetes. I am glad to know that once the dosage is found, the insulin could be added to the cycler bags.

Time for another nap! I enjoyed the Berks County Association of School Retirees meeting on Friday. It meant so much to me to see my colleagues. I am working out on a modified gym training schedule. I also walk frequently.
...

Tiredness sneaks in

Sat, 20 Apr 2013 17:12:36 EST

I was ready to set the world on fire today. I got up early. Alas, I felt exhausted after I marketed and put the items away. My doctor does not want me to lift more than 10 pounds. This avid exerciser is attempting to listen.

By afternoon, I needed a nap. Then I was ready to cook, process the mail and so much more.

Community Outreach

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 18:21:04 EST

I plan to volunteer with the Greater Berks Food Bank after I recover from surgery. I'd like to volunteer once a month in packing groceries for either senior citizens or children.

I also want to work with our church on its outreaches.

Supporting my husband

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 19:37:02 EST

Today my husband and I attended his Peritonel Dialysis clinic. We met with his nurses. He had blood work done and received his epogen shot. I am learning so much about the function of the kidneys and growth hormones. He is doing well with fluid retention and much more. He has some problems with appetite, but eats what he is given.

We met with his nephrologist. She was pleased with the exit site. She felt we were correct to increase his diabetes medicine. The 5 liter bags (r...

Return to some activities

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 20:42:30 EST

I am feeling great and want to make a difference once again. It is now one week since surgery. I did a first draft of a report from my church visitations. I am working on the agenda for our meeting on Friday. I submitted reservations for the meeting next week.

I began a serious walking effort. I am still receiving support and kindness from friends and neighbors.

I will be leading the general meeting on Friday. That agenda will be done tomorrow.
Good day......

Building Energy

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 16:55:14 EST

I am tracking my energy levels and changes in patterns since surgery. I try to go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time each day. I do dynamic stretching (within limits of post operative surgery restrictions). I then have a healthy breakfast and shower to start my day. I try to get a good walk in each day and increase the length of the walk by one block. I repeat this walk after lunch as well.

I do small loads of wash as I cannot lift more than 10 pounds. I col...

Dealing with Arthritis and Surgery

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 15:38:16 EST

I knew I would have surgery back in November. I told my personal trainer that I needed strong core and triceps to help me move around after surgery. I worked diligently from November until April 5th on that goal. I also knew that I would have to go off of my methotrexate meds for about one month. As a person who has had Barrett's Esophagus, I needed to stay away from pain meds.

I read several books on the impact of more vegetables and fruits on inflammation. I started to make ...

Looking ahead

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:42:39 EST

I am looking ahead. I will be walking, wearing a pedometer, and doing steps. I have some simple stretches to do. I plan to adhere to my surgeon's advice concerning exercise. My gym has an indoor track. I will see how well I do to get to it.

My game plan so far:
1. Saturday - walk around the perimeter of the Giant Supermarket near my home. I need bananas and a few light items. See how tired I get!
2. Drive to the Berkshire Mall. Walk around the center court for a b...

Recovering Nicely

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 10:28:46 EST

I am improving each hour it seems. I felt weak and exhausted when I came home yesterday. Today I unpacked my overnight bag, got a shower, did light chores, and my puzzles. I ate a good breakfast. I still have some pain, but have more flexibility.

I need to take it easy, but still move. Steps are going well. I got dinner last evening.
The support of my friends is great. I am so blessed.

Recovering Nicely

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 10:28:45 EST

Gratitiude

Sun, 7 Apr 2013 18:41:26 EST

I am blessed with so many good friends. In my church alone I have 6 offers to make casseroles, 2 offers to get groceries, 3 offers to spend time with me as I recover. In addition I have friends who offered to get prescriptions. I have one friend who is there for me. That is truly wonderful.

Tomorrow is my preparation day for surgery. I asked my husband to bring my cell phone and Kindle to the hospital after I return to my room on Tuesday. I hope to feel good enough to do some...

Feeling Close to God...Yet somewhat alone

Wed, 3 Apr 2013 22:09:58 EST

I have an active prayer life and feel very close to God. Yet there are moments when I feel alone. It is that time alone that gives me time to meditate and reflect. While there are not many people with me at times, there are a host that I can reach out to.

I need to count my blessings, my friends, church family, family, and all those who wish me well. I have several new friends over the last 7 years who have become family.

I reread some Henri Nouwen. I also made ...

Food Plan for Exercise

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 10:57:30 EST

Pre Workout
Piece of Fruit - Banana or apple

Post Workout
Piece of cheese - 12 grapes
24 almonds

I eat lunch at 11:30 am if I am working out at 1:30 pm
I eat lunch at 1 pm if I am working out at 3 pm.
I eat breakfast at 7:30 am if I am working out at 10:00 am

If I take an evening class at 4:30 pm or 5:30 pm, I have an organic yogurt at 3:30 pm and then eat dinner at 7:15 pm.

Proud of Husband

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 10:05:38 EST

Bob is achieving small goals. He is now able to do his own dialysis once a week. He is somewhat stronger. He tires quickly. He managed to get to the Good Friday services. He attempted to go to the grocery store on Saturday, but then got exhausted. He is most cooperative with his eating and food choices.

Glad to be at my home church

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 23:02:24 EST

I visited several churches over the past 7 weeks. I really found out how much I like our congregation and church service. Today's Easter Services were wonderful. The Celebration Service was a wow with the instrumental music, choir, excellent and thought provoking sermon, well-written prayers and liturgy that inspired me.

The family service had so many participants. We had the cherub choir, the junior choir and more singers. There was an intergenerational band. The Sunday scho...

Keeping a healthy mindset

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 16:43:20 EST

Less than two weeks until I have surgery. Today I shopped for my heavier groceries. I verified what medical and personal supplies I had on hand. I made a menu for the next 10 days. I then used it to get my marketing list.

I set up to do lists for things that must be done. I needed a station for my laptop that did not involve steps. I cleaned off my desk (whew) and now am testing the laptop out. I could not have the laptop on my thighs with the surgery I am having. I cannot ...

Bad Moments

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:44:48 EST

I have very peaceful days with a few bad moments within them. My pain levels are higher; the antibiotics have me feeling weird. After a night's sleep or after a nap, I am in a better state. So I am trying to balance my exercise and paperwork during good periods.

My husband and I had a few house repairs to do. I am cooking and keeping interested in good things.

Being Patient

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:35:29 EST

I am attempting to be patient. I have a 2 week period to get ready for surgery. I then have a 6 week healing process. I am attempting to get my house in order and add the help that I need.

I am working on cooking and freezing meals. I purchased the over the counter meds and supplies that I will need. I have the pre op preparation kits ready to go.

I am completing projects prior to having surgery. I have minutes to complete and then a mailing to get done.

Progress and new things

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 16:01:25 EST

Since I started Sparkpeople I did the following:
1. Learned to play golf...rules...joined 2 leagues...won two prizes at last tournament.
2. Developed cooking as a hobby...now try to be more vegetarian when possible
3. Work in several types of exercise per day - DVDs at home, trainings, classes
4. Became engaged in tracking both exercise and food.
5. Became a caregiver and learned to do home dialysis for my husband
6. Participate in 5K walk-run-jogs, sprint triath...

Chronic illness makes me dedicated even more

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 22:34:04 EST

I am learning much about rheumatoid arthritis and how it impacts many medical procedures. I find with surgery or dental work I heal more slowly. I am preparing for a robotic surgery and need to go off of my methotrexate to have the proper function of white blood cells and my immune system. I realize that I may go from a RA remission to an active flare up.

I'm also realizing that the pelvic surgery will require 6 weeks to heal instead of 4. I must walk and do stairs. I cannot g...

Church Visitations

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 21:54:28 EST

A team of Immanuel UCC members researched the contempory services in our Berks County Area. We visited services at West Lawn UMC, Lincoln Park UMC, First Presbyterian in Reading, Trinity Lutheran in Robesonia, and Good Shepherd UCC in Tuckerton. We were warmly received in all churches. Pastors and worship leaders spent time with us and answered all our questions.

Today was special for we visited Trinity Lutheran Church in Robesonia. Trinity redid their sanctuary and have a modu...

Feeling Good while under stress

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 11:06:58 EST

I want to be stress as much as possible. I try not to overschedule my day...I found this is my worst stressor. So I keep a calendar and put priorities in first. I decided that one hour of exercise is better right now with anything else being done in 10 minute intervals at home. I try to get no more than 1 doctor appointment per day for me or my husband. We also eliminate stress by scheduling the appointments at 10 am or 2 pm.

We try to set aside time for each other each day.

Busy day!

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 22:05:13 EST

I thought that things would go smoother today. My executive board meeting went superbly. Good comments from the members. We accomplished planning. I had medical tests and a training. Bob had his weekly visit to the dialysis center.

Slowing down and my conference

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 07:13:43 EST

I realize how much I have slowed down and began to really enjoy a quiet lifestyle. Yesterday and today I am at an excellent leadership conference. The material is super; the facilitators are interesting. So I am not complaining!

I am used to cooking my meals and knowing exactly what is in them. I am fond of exercising for 20 minutes in the morning, a 60 minute training or class per day, and another 40 minutes of movement/exercise. I savor the food and the exercise.

Trusting and Love

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:53:26 EST

I am going to a conference. I debated and almost backed out. However my husband rallied and learned how to do his dialysis at home. I have an emergency communication kit, alerted the neighbors, and will be only 1 hour from home.

I must relinquish my control and let him be. He needs to be independent. My love is with him. My trust is that he will take care. I have to let go and let him be. He will be successful. We did a dry run on Sunday evening.

He will ha...

Training

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 10:21:34 EST

Some people are surprised that I have had the same trainer for over 5 years. I feel fortunate to have a woman who really gets my desire to improve. As I recovery from ankle surgery and therapy, she found ways to challenge me.

I learned about the types of exercise. I do strength exercises, but not just machines. I then wanted to learn zumba, cardio kickboxing, and cycling.

I used my trainer to exercise in the pool since I have rheumaoid arthritis. I learned to do 5...

Goals - in flux

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 22:02:46 EST

I seem to set goals frequently and achieve them. I am a firm believer in small changes on a regular basis. Right now I working on getting to feel better. My dietitian and trainer are helping me achieve best results.

My dietitian and I hope to create meal plans for the combination of renal failure, diabetes, and anti-inflammation illnesses. I need to cook for my husband and me. Cooking fresh and organic takes some time and care. We have a workable solution in the test phase ...

Looking Ahead

Sat, 9 Mar 2013 10:13:04 EST

I will have more medical tests this week. Bob is running solo on his dialysis while I am attending a president's meeting with his nurses and doctor's approval. This will also serve as a test of what help he needs while I am in the hospital (told only 1 night).

I see my doctor - surgeon on March 18 to see how soon surgery is scheduled. Timing will be based upon the results of this week.

I am already taking inventory of supplies and food. My game plan is to be prepared...

making progress

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 14:50:21 EST

I had a to do list that seemed overwhelming. Boundaries needed to be drawn. I cut beck on extra activities. I organized pappers and mail. I set a time for email and web activities for each day. I set up a calendar for appointments and deadlines.

I took on no new tasks. Now things are going better. The list looks doable.

Golf and Snow

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 21:40:32 EST

I thought I was so cool. I took a golf lesson on March 2nd. The training center was fine. I realized how good it was to play again. We did my first hole at Manor Golf Course. As a beginner, I was stuck with its difficulty. My Pro made me feel confident in the blustry 20-30 mph wind. I did well with the hole.

When I came home, my husband stated that my playing golf so early in cold weather will cause us to have a major snow storm. Today they are showing 8 to 12 inches of sno...