One Awesome Life

DEAR HEART by SUNNYLANE

2012-01-19T07:52:00.000-05:00

I'm singing the song "Dear Heart." My friend Bob, added the gorgeous flowers video with karaoke words in for me. I just love this so much! Hope you like it too.

Half A Month Into The New Year, 2012

2012-01-15T22:47:00.001-05:00

Well, here it is, half way into January, and the world is still here.
So far, good things are happening in my one awesome life!
I'm a new Great-Gramma and my son has been communicating with me, along with his/my family. They have shared the joy with me, and I'm so thankful for this!

The weather here in Florida has been not too cold. It's been chilly a few mornings, but that's it. This week is forcasted to be in the 70's all week!

The shipment for my methotrexate injection was over a month late! I have been without it for five weeks. It finally arrived, but I saw my primary Doc this past Monday, and he said I could go without the injection, as long as I'm functioning well, and no inflammation, to speak of.

I have an appointment with the Rheumatologist this Tuesday, and we will see what she says. The lab tests came back and they are all mostly good. Nothing serious. But she does not have the special inflammation test marked to draw, like my other R.A. doc's did.

So we really cannot tell what's going on 'inside' in my heart and the rest of the internal places. I have felt great this whole last five weeks without the injection ! This is the first time since 1998! This is the first time to be without it for this long! Usually two weeks is the limit.

Tonight I do have some slight inflammation in a couple of places, but I can still walk and also use my
hands. The knuckles and tops of my hands are swollen, but not much pain tonight.

I'm looking forward to this new year of 2012, the year so many has predicted to be doom and gloom, as our last year to be on Earth !

Whether it is, or not, we just keep on and when it does end, we have no say in that,lol ! I will just live and be happy I'm alive!

Be safe and be well~

FERGS SPORTS BAR ST PETERSBURG FL DEC 20 2011.wmv

2012-01-14T15:10:00.001-05:00

I DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. MY FRIEND HAD A GLASS OF WHITE WINE AND I HAD DIET SPRITE ! WE BOTH ATE YUMMY GIANT BURGERS, GRILLED TO PERFECTION, AND A WHOLE PLATE OF MADE TO ORDER FRIES ! IT WAS ALOT OF FUN THAT DAY ON DECEMBER 20TH 2011, TUESDAY.

Michigan State Wins the OutBack Bowl !

2012-01-02T18:02:00.001-05:00

Yes! My all time favorite college football team won the OutBack Bowl game !
Way to do it, Michigan !!
Michigan State 33
Georgia BullDogs 30

Baby is here! I'm A Great-Gramma now!

2011-12-30T09:44:00.001-05:00

Baby Chayson arrived this past Tuesday in the early morning hour. Everyone is so happy and baby and Mama are just fine!
My son sent me five pictures and I need to learn how to upload them from my phone to my computer hard drive!
Note: I'm getting a new LG Optimus Q Android via Fed Ex
on Tuesday !

I am a very happy, excited and proud Great-Gramma!
Today I'm hoping to get in on the sales for baby gifts.

I also need to stop in at my CVS and pick up 4 of my prescriptions that are ready.

My life has changed so much this year, leading into an even greater New Year 2012, I hope. I have Hope always.

I called my sister in Michigan last night and she was very happy for me ! I could "hear" the smiles as we talked all these miles apart! She was getting ready to make old fashoned Grandma sugar cookies with her two grand kids who have been visiting her my brother-in-law for a week.

Wishing all a very healthy, safe and Happy New Year, 2012!

SNOOPY SANTA DANCING

2011-12-25T20:49:00.000-05:00

Christmas 2011

2011-12-18T12:41:00.005-05:00

This month is going by so fast! I have had no time to blog, as I have been both sick and busy.
I have kept in touch with some of my family and was talking with my sister a few days ago, and it was not as it usually is, all chatting and fun. It's like she was holding something back. She was.

I called Mom this morning and we had a hour and ten minutes of nice talking. One of the things she told me was, MY son has been in the hospital, last week got home and right back in again, this time bleeding.
They live in Texas now.

I'm heavy duty praying for him and am finally calmed down to function for this afternoon. *****UPDATE! MY SON WILL BE OKAY. HE IS HOME NOW AND HAS "EROSION" I'M ASSUMING IT'S ESOPHAGUS EROSION. HE WAS COUGHING UP BLOOD. OR IT COULD BE STOMACH EROSION. MOM DID NOT SAY.*****END OF UPDATE

Well, anyway, I have decorations ( deck the halls :) all finished, Christmas cards are done and mailed, but still have some left for friends here in the city and neighbors in my building. Christmas shopping is done and it was scarce this year, as I'm paying cash for all eight of my medicines. January will be when my new insurance kicks in though :)

It's the time of year I just love, just to sit back and relax, watching The Hallmark Channel or sometimes the Family Channel and Lifetime too, for their excellant Christmas shows.

It's especially the time of year to count our blessings and be thankful, and just appreciate life as we know it. It's still "life." No matter how bad we think it is, it could be worse. There is a reason, yes, for everything.

It's great that some of our troops will be home this month and that awful Iraq war is over. There are plenty of troops stationed away from their families/friends this holiday season, so if you pray, please keep them in your prayers too!

BREAKING NEWS !!! MY SON CALLED ME TONIGHT ( DECEMBER 22,2011) AND I ALSO MET MY DAUGHTER-IN-LAW. SHE IS SO SWEET JUST LIKE I THOUGHT SHE WOULD BE! MY SON SOUNDED SO GREAT. I LOVE THEM AND MY GRAND CHILDREN ALL SO MUCH. WE ALL TALKED OVER FORTY-FIVE MINUTES !!
WHAT A SURPRISE AND A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT THIS WAS/IS !

Merry Christmas , Happy Holidays to all !!!!!!!
((hugs)) Sunny

Now It's Time To Decorate !

2011-12-01T07:13:00.001-05:00

This Christmas tree is in the lobby of the apartment building I live in.

December has arrived ! Now it's time to decorate. We also need to count our blessings, no matter how small we think it is. Just waking up in the morning is a blessing!

As you can see, I have spent a short while decorating this main blog of mine to make it look Christmasy. Other things on my to do list for today are:
1. Give Miss Kitty her birthday card. She lives here on the fifth floor. Miss Kitty is 100 years old today! God bless her!

2. I need to catch the early trolley out to the beach to my preferred lab to get some blood tests done. We think my INR is too high, for reasons I will not go into.

3.A trip to the market is planned for sometime today, hopefully right after lunch, if I get back home in time.

These are all the necessary things for today for me to do. After wards, I can take a nap.

Be safe and be well!

Ferrari Exhibit Miami Beach Florida Homeless People

2011-11-30T08:40:00.001-05:00

The exhibition included a $7 million California Passo Corto, an $8 million Berlinetta, a $12 million 1957 Testarossa, and a new 458 Spider that will speed up to 198 mph !

Oh how I wish I was there in Miami Beach on Lincoln Road for the exhibit! $100 million worth of Ferraris were setting at the South Beach garage on Lincoln Road, which in itself is a work of art.

The automobile art pieces ( after all, a Ferrari is a piece of art ) were housed in the parking garage for one night's exhibit .

Hmmm, just think of how many hungry and homeless people in the greater Miami/Miami Beach area could be fed with the cash from one of these beautiful automobiles.

That's all, Be safe and be well !

CBS Interrupted The Young and The Restless for This ?

2011-11-29T13:05:00.000-05:00

Here I am, sitting all cozy in my living room watching the Young and the Restless and enjoying this cool Fall day in St Petersburg Florida.

All of a sudden, CBS NEWS comes on with "Breaking News Report."
Dr Conrad Murray was sentenced to four years in jail for the killing negligence of Michael Jackson. He also has to pay one hundred million dollars for restitution.

Personally, I think that this four years in jail should be extended to life. This is just my opinion.

CBS NEWS interrupted the Young and the Restless for this? Could they not wait until the 6:00 news this evening ?

Be safe and be well !

Cruising On A Sunny Afternoon

2011-11-25T15:48:00.000-05:00

I hope the USA Thanksgiving time was nice for everyone ! I am thankful for each and every day that comes along.

After lunch today, Scoot and I drove down to the Bus Shack to buy ten passes for next month. ( No Black Friday deals at PSTA, LOL !)

Instead of driving right back home as we normally would, we decided to go the long way around. We drove by several of my old haunts that I used to hangout at, back in my wild and carefree years.

Memories came flooding back. We went by a couple of Pubs and at one of them I just sat there for awhile in the sunshine, soaking in all the nice memories of that time and place in my life.

Then we drove past, slowly, two more places and sat and listened to the outdoor singer and guitar playing at one of them. Nope. I did not wander into any of the places I used to love going out to, so much.

Different times now, and different situations. Besides, the people are why I went there, and most all are gone away now in 2011.

I still have half of a pumpkin pie left. I'll share some more with Bob when he gets home from work tonight. He lives a few floors down from me, in this building.

Oh. The "Blogging Bug" has left me. It's gone. So I will sporadically be posting here.

I am really trying to diligently work on my newest blog here http://momhomeandfamily.blogspot.com/ but need to find certain old photos to scan and I cannot lift heavy boxes, looking for them. I need to wait till I have some help. I do hope to get that finished in a year, so I can make a book and give it to Mom.

Be safe and be well!

Happy Thanksgiving Video To You From Me

2011-11-21T18:15:00.001-05:00

I'm just learning to make animated movies with the Xtranormal site.

Happy Thanksgiving to all !

Camping Out At Best Buy St Petersburg Florida

2011-11-19T08:43:00.000-05:00

This young couple really want to be 'first in line' for the outstanding bargains at our local Best Buy retail store here in St Petersburg, Florida! They are camped out a whole week early ! Well, they have a laptop and a tent , and each other . Pretty cozy set-up in my opinion !
This couple made the national news on CNN this morning !
Way to go, kids :) Now you are famous, plus you will get first choice for the Best Buy bargains.

Be safe and be well !

Pictures of Mom and Papa Ray

2011-11-16T12:30:00.000-05:00

They are posted on my new Blogger blog :)
You may view here : http://momhomeandfamily.blogspot.com/

Be safe and be well !

Change It To Tuesday

2011-11-15T08:21:00.000-05:00

Okay, I will do that, because I have no other choice. My appointment has been changed from Wednesday to Tuesday, today. That's good.

Yesterday, I spent some time, and also this morning already, over on my other blog here. http://momhomeandfamily.blogspot.com/

No, I'm not abandoning 'this' blog, I'm just starting a blog about "back home."

It's helping me already :) as I get very very homesick during the Fall and early winter, Thanksgiving and Christmas and New years celebrations.

In other news of what I'm recently doing is the fact that I'm so addicted to puzzles on Pogo. I started at the end of October and I'm up to Adventure 24 already! Sometimes, I'm late going to bed, as I want to get 'just one more puzzle' completed. I have found lots of treasures from all over the world and they are in an album.

Now it's time for shower and breakfast ~

Be safe and be well !

Relax, It's Sunday and My New Blogger Blog

2011-11-13T14:11:00.001-05:00

That's just what I'm doing today, almost all day.
In an hour I will take Scoot and go to the local market to buy
a few things I'm out of and also four gallons of water. I drink just about one gallon per day.

I have been working on my new Blogger blog, http://momhomeandfamily.blogspot.com/ for awhile this afternoon. I love my new scanner, and now will need to find some older photos in boxes packed away.

Be safe and be well!

Hideaway and Happy Saturday !

2011-11-12T06:48:00.003-05:00

Sometimes I just feel like hiding away. It's Saturday though and I have to shower and get dressed and get my laundry done today, absolutely!

It's 54* outside and thinking of *back home* makes me wish to hideaway with all my memories floating around me, comforting me in a soft and happy 'blanket' while curled up on my loveseat with albums and a cup of tea and some oatmeal raisin cookies.

Hey! That was a long sentence up there, yes? LOL !

Let's see, *puts on thinking hat* what shall I wear today ? It's too cool for shorts or capris. I think I will throw on my dark green Michigan State sweatshirt and cream color cordoroy slacks. Maybe this will bring good luck to Michigan State ! College footbal, I love it !

I love Fall and the smell of leaves on the sidewalks, and of the fireplaces blowing smoke up the chimneys ! I miss the bonfires and roasting marshmellows. I miss so much. But that's not a Saturday post.
Hmmm, or maybe it is. Later.

Be safe and be well!

I have made a new blog here in Blogger. It's all about my Mom, Home, and Family. I think this will lessen my home-sickness that hits me really bad at certain times in the year. I will be adding lots of pictures, as I have a new Canon Canoscan LiDE 110.
http://momhomeandfamily.blogspot.com/

Veteran's Day 2011 11-11-11

2011-11-11T07:12:00.000-05:00

Thankyou to all veterans for your service !

God bless the USA ~

Be safe and be well !

Xtranormal.com

2011-11-09T09:06:00.001-05:00

There's is a movie making site on this www that let's us make our own movies. It has cameras, and facial expressions, and everything!

We just write our own scripts ! We can use our own voices, or we can type in the text of our script and a virtual voice will sound.

I have made my first one recently and am currently thinking of another new script.
http://www.xtranormal.com/

It's fun and easy to totally make our own movies !

Be safe and be well !

Former Administrator, Keith L.

2011-11-08T07:23:00.001-05:00

It's been a year since Keith L. left his position here where I still live. He retired and his wife and him relocated to Hawaii ! It's peaceful and beautiful out there, who could blame them, lol ?

I'm writing about this because I and alot of other residents just miss his presence here.

We all wish Keith and his wife a wonderful life out there, they deserve happyness away from the 'rat-race.'

The new administrator is doing a pretty good job, as it will take awhile for her to learn the ropes, so to speak.

There just is not the feeling of , oh how can I describe it ? It's not as comfy here anymore.

There's an open door policy, but many times, the door is closed.
However, I do have my own very comfy and warm apartment here , as do all the other 225 residents.

Be well and be safe !

Monday Monday A New Week

2011-11-07T08:35:00.001-05:00

I'm on my way to the Doc's to get my injection. The methotrexate arrived ( 5 vials) in my mailbox Friday evening, all the way from Canada! I've been without the injection since October 19th 2011, but have been okay, not too much inflammation and joint swelling, or excess of synovial fluid to damage any further my joints and heart and lungs.
Be safe and be well!

It is now 10:50a.m. and I'm back from the chemo ( Methotrexate injection)
I got back home in time to go to my first Yoga class. We had a good turn out! I had to leave after 35 minutes because of the effects of the chemo taking hold of me.

But next week will have the injection on the usual day, Wednesday, so Monday Yoga class should go well for me!

Be safe and be well. :)

Blogging Bug Rambling Saturday

2011-11-05T09:41:00.000-04:00

Happy Saturday ! I love Saturdays for too many reasons, lol. Even if I'm sick, Saturdays make it all better .

Today in my area of Florida it's pretty cool outside, in the 50's but fresh and brisk and beautiful ! It will warm up for this afternoon and we have sunshine !

I seem to have caught a bug of sorts. I call it the "blogging bug" and I hope this is a bug that always stays alive for me, as I love to write.

I already did some singing so that's okay for a few days. I go listen and visit some others there too. I am known for giving comments to my commenters on their songs.

Just like with blogging, only sometimes here, I comment anyway even if bloggers did'nt comment here. That is, if I am able to comment. There has been some issues lately , well for months. I seem to have fixed this in my own blog now. Whew!

Please notice I have found a cool feature of this template style ! It's called "pages" and see the little *tabs* up there under my blog title of Blogging Notes ?

Click on them and see what happens ! Pretty cool, eh ? I think so.

Be safe and be well !

Every Breath You Take, Every Move You Make...

2011-11-03T23:20:00.000-04:00

Texting Taxi-Driver

2011-11-02T16:07:00.001-04:00

I had to take a taxi further than I could go on the buses with Scoot this afternoon.

Let me tell you ; it was a scarey ride for three miles!
I was sitting in the back seat, but watching closely all that was happening,

especially the car in front of us who kept braking , like they did'nt know where they wanted to go.

Well. My taxi driver was first talking on his personal cel phone, three times while driving, and I was on pins and needles all the way! I even said prayers.

Then he was texting twice, with one hand and driving with the other hand.
No, I will not report this, but when I have to take a taxi again, I will ask for a driver who does not talk on his cel phone or text while driving!

Be safe and be well !

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T11:45:00.000-04:00

Today is Halloween , BOO!
Yesterday I caught the "blogging bug" and thought I'd try to
post 10 entries in a day. Hah ! Only got in 7 entries. All seven entries are below this one.
Today I'm entered in the Harvest Festival Halloween challenge.
I decorated my songpage all spooky! I sound very spooky too!
Here's the link if you care to listen:
http://www.singsnap.com/karaoke/r/c09e16984 This is me singing Monster Mash!

Be safe and be well !

Mega Snow Storm Northeast USA

2011-10-30T20:15:00.000-04:00

This is a picture of the snow, yes I typed 'snow' it's not a typo!
At this hour of 8:00p.m. Eastern time, there are over 3 million power outages.
Just look at that snow!
The Weather Channel has been doing a great feature of videos and photos of the much accumulated and piled up snow .

It's pretty to see on TV, but I'm very lucky and happy to live where there is no snow.

I miss snow during the seasonal holidays, but that's it. I don't miss the cold and ice at all.

Be safe and be well!

My 200th Blogger Post

2011-10-30T17:20:00.000-04:00

This is my 200th Blogger post!
Okay, I have tested out the new format for Blogger Dashboard,
and decided to go back to the one we have been using.

My eyes just know where to go to do all of the many features.
The new one is okay , but I found myself searching around for this and that.

I like the colors also that are in this original Blogger dashboard format.

Be safe and be well!

Back from Shopping

2011-10-30T16:49:00.000-04:00

I was at the right place at the right time .
One of the young employees at Publix saw
me and handed me a long-stemmed pink rose.

It is for October Breast Cancer Awareness.

The young people at this particular neighborhood
Publix are what keeps alot of us going back, time after time.

They are always curteous and friendly and so helpful!
It's just like a "Cheers" place down there. We all know each other,
and I love that!

This gives the feeling of a small town store in a larger city.

I bought some very nice sweet potatoes from the vegetable bins and also two more large real Idaho baking potatoes.

I love potatoes. Potatoes are my most very favorite food, ever.
I also bought a few other items.

I'm glad to be back home, which is my comfort zone.

Be safe and be well !

A Talking Blog

2011-10-30T15:17:00.000-04:00

As I was reading the blogs on my blog reader list , I came across a favorite of mine. The guy's name is Randy, and alot of you will recognize him from the first and original JournalSpace blogging community.
He has a talking blog! Well, there is a place which holds a thing called Cinch and it's all audio! We can hear Randy talking. It's kind of a talking blog type thing !
That, plus some amazing pictures from his truck!
Link: http://www.lakewoodloon.com/

Be safe and be well !

Reading Blogs

2011-10-30T14:43:00.000-04:00

I have been reading blogs from my blog reader for the past hour or two. Alot have photos ! I love to sit and ponder/gaze at some of them.
Soon I need to break away from Blogger and take a spin on Scoot down to the local market.

Be safe and be well!

New Blogger Dashboard

2011-10-30T14:30:00.000-04:00

I have gotten brave and am trying out the new and improved Blogger Dashboard format.
Hey ! I like it. So far.
Be safe and be well !

Bowling With A Mouse

2011-10-30T11:19:00.000-04:00

Since I cannot go bowling anymore for real, I discovered a bowling game
on the www that all I need to do is sit here and click and direct my mouse.
Haha, this is fun !
I'm going to try and post ten entries by tonight before I log off the www.

Be safe and be well !

The Weather In St Petersburg

2011-10-22T11:10:00.000-04:00

It's chilly here in St Petersburg, Florida ! I have my sweats on, as we don't have 'heat' in our building turned on yet.
It was 58 degrees early this morning. Currently, it's 64 degrees and it's 11:02 a.m. But the sun is shining !

We are forcasted to reach a high of 73 degrees for this afternoon.

That's when I will meander outside with my little scooter, and hope the winds have lessened !
My body is still trying to tolerate the Coumadine, so my blood is very thinned out ; that and living here this time, for 12 years will keep the body cooler than normal.

The relative humidity is at 42 percent right now and no rain is forcasted. It will be a beautiful afternoon !

Until next time, be safe and well.

I Had A Heart Attack

2011-10-14T12:43:00.002-04:00

This heart attack is my third one since 2001. They have all felt different. This last one was a biggie and scared me so much. September first was the day I took a ride in the 911 truck, a virtual hospital on wheels.

This is why I have not been here blogging. I don't like to put my illnesses on other people's minds.
Now I have to take everything slow and easy and not get stressed !

That means any negativity. A while back, I read a blog that was full of cuss words ( bad ones) well, all cussing is bad and I think most everyone, including myself, has cussed in our life times. But what I read was very nasty, and also after stating their faith in previous blog entries, they turned and was writing bad things about God and on and on.

This person has lots of diseases they write about , but reading their blog about the prior two subjects, got my blood pressure to go sky high! I decided right then and there to remove myself from this person's communication.

I have not shown comments because I have problems with commenting back to my commenters , as Blogger has changed since I first joined. The commenting used to work fine. Now it does not.

But several people have asked me about things , so here I am trying to blog again. I will also try to read your blogs that I have on my reading list. I won't be commenting, sorry. It keeps making me sign out and sign back in and is just too exasperating.

What caused my heart-attack this time ? That nasty inflammation! I did'nt realize I had been doing so much activity, way too much , which increased the inflammation around my heart , and that's the extent of it. Now I know. Now I will try and be even more careful.

Until next time, please be safe and well.

Hurricane Irene, from Willoughby Spit, Norfolk, VA. 7:30pm Sat.

2011-09-01T07:11:00.000-04:00

Problem Posting Comments

2011-08-31T14:30:00.000-04:00

This is why I have not been here mainly, and also busy and sick . Had to take the chemo with a preservative in it, because of shortage of my regular chemo injection.

I'm having a huge problem posting comments in blogs here. Ican post in Chimps blog, but not Bobbys and Dorrie's blog. This is message I get when I try: ( They would not let me save the Snip I took of the message)

It said basically, that I needed to sign out and sign back in with another account other than my GOOGLE ACCOUNT !! How stupid is this ? Google and Blogger go together.

So to avoid un-needed stress on my heart muscle, and getting high blood pressure, I will just read/look and not give comments.

I have decided to resume blogging again, as I was inspired by Mr S ( Journalspacers know who he is :) Mr S and his kittycats and just his style of wriitng and also discovered all the new stuff about him, So happy for you, Mr S !

Until next time ~

New York, New York

2011-08-31T08:54:00.000-04:00

Hospital News

2011-05-23T11:47:00.000-04:00

Scoot got operated on this morning, and is up and running beautifully!

I took pictures of the 'surgery.'

The 'surgeon' Dave , had to leave for awhile and come back, as it turned out Scoot needed different sized batteries than what Dave brought with him. Scoot even got a wheel clean and lube job done at the same time.

Pictures hopefully tomorrow, after I get back from more testing at the lab.

St Petersburg Taste of Pinellas

2011-05-21T09:48:00.000-04:00

Yay, I love Saturdays, and this weekend St Petersburg has their annual "Taste of Pinellas" going on downtown in the park. It's a beautiful day for this and tomorrow is forcasted to be the same. Hot and sunny.

The "Taste of Pinellas" is where people and poochies too, can 'taste' for a modest fee, all kinds of foods and recipes that are in the restaurants of Pinellas County.

I think I just might take Scoot down there and mingle with the crowds.

The Deep Dark Hole

2011-05-02T13:05:00.002-04:00

I never thought I would be in that place, not ever again ! But we really don't have any say in how our lives go and what things happen to us. I slipped...and fell right into that black hole again.

It's been quite a few days, but I'm at the top !! I see the sunshine now, and all I have to do is boost myself up and stay out of there.

Staying away from Face Book is the best thing for me at this time. I won't be 'de-activating' my account like last time, but will just leave it until such time that I'm comfortable to be back there. UPDATE: I will never be "comfortable" in FaceBook. It's currently de-activated. May 21st end of update.

I have not even sang in SingSnap for a week! I have'nt talked much on the phones, and have'nt felt like blogging lately.

I hate that place so much in the deep dark black hole. It takes absolutely all the strength I have to climb out of there!

Yesterday was May 1st so I celebrated out in the sunshine and 90* temps and Scoot and I rode down to an area of St Pete that not many people know about. This was the first 'beach' I took my son Robby to when we moved here from Michigan and his daddy left us to fend for ourselves.

My friend and neighbor , Bob, went with me. We stopped at the little neighborhood store on the way to the beach and another area of Tampa Bay, and bought chips and soda and Bob got a beer. Then we drove ( Bob walked) on the rest of the way down to the waters edge.

There was a great blue heron that I videoed and have up in YouTube. Four nice hours away was great and helped so much. This is a long way from where we live , but Scoot was fully charged and made it there and back just fine.

Later on this afternoon, Scoot and I will be going for another ride in another area of St Pete. This is a great way to avoid "the deep dark hole."

What caused all of this? What made me slip and fall into the darkness ? It's clear to me. I have to deal with this !! And that, I will do.

Great-Grandma December 21st !

2011-04-26T15:37:00.000-04:00

This is huge news ! I just found out Sunday that I'm going to be a "Great-Grandma" by one of my son's daughters. A. is due December 21st , so that will make my son J. a grandpa for the first time ! He re-married after A's mother and J. got divorced. His new wife is a caring , loving lady also so I know she is thrilled to be "Grandma" too. :)

HAPPY AND BLESSED EASTER APRIL 24TH 2011

2011-04-23T20:11:00.000-04:00

Wishing everyone a very happy and safe Easter holiday !

You Are Cordially Invited

2011-04-18T10:49:00.000-04:00

To join me for lunch ~ but it's all gone ! This is a photograph I took of my lunch yesterday. It's all healthy , even the two Oreo cookies ! Enjoy your lunch :)

Writing A Blog Entry

2011-04-15T13:19:00.000-04:00

That's what I'm currently doing, and have many things to do yet this afternoon. This morning I drove Scoot to the post office and then through the downtown area over to the local supermarket, Publix.

It's a gorgeous day today, all sunshine and warm temps. Yay! I'm feeling fine today with the exception of my lower back....which was injured over 20 years ago in two different motorcycle accidents. It's been acting up so badly these past few days. This too, will pass, I have Faith and Hope.

I'm missing my " Honey Bun " since he is working hard and will be out there from yesterday morning until Saturday night at 9:20 p.m. We are keeping in touch.

Something I absolutely must tell you: Google Earth ! Go download the latest one and get going !!!
Last weekend I actually DROVE a car down Oceanview Blvd and found where I used to live when I was first married, and only 19 years old.

There's a pancake restaurant where the gas station used to be, but the intersection lights are still there.
I also "drove" right into the parking lot of my first real home with my new hubby and nine months later little Wendy would be born to us.
Here is a photo of the 'new place' which has been renovated from a 3 story building , and they also took off the big porch that surounded it on the oceanfront side. I used to sit out there reading and eating a pint of ice cream, watching for my hubby's ship. ( We were in the Navy )

There used to be three floors of cute 1 bedroom and studio apartments here. The building used to extend out to this last car you see in the photo.
Happy weekend and be safe!

PassAGrille Beach Florida Part One

2011-03-14T10:12:00.001-04:00

Paradise St Petersburg FL.wmv

2011-03-06T17:40:00.000-05:00

BIG EAST Original # 2 - I Die For You

2011-02-10T11:40:00.000-05:00

My First Video With My New Toshiba CamileoS20 Pocket Camcorder.wmv

2011-02-04T11:15:00.000-05:00

Blues Music Tampa Bay SUN,SURF & SAND by Lightning Jack

2011-01-30T20:44:00.000-05:00

SQUALL LINE CAUSES TORNADO STPETERSBURG FLORIDA.avi

2011-01-27T07:11:00.000-05:00

St Petersburg FL 2 Police Officers Killed US Marshall Shot

2011-01-24T12:34:00.001-05:00

"The city of St Petersburg Florida, has lost 2 policemen , and a US Marshall has been injured while trying to get a man off the streets who was dangerous to the community; The officers are HEROS, who put their life on the line every time they go on duty...to protect the rest of us.

My heartful prayers go out to the family and friends of the HERO officers." Sunny Nelson
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

All three officers have been taken to the Bayfront Medical Center. The two police officers died at the hospital. The marshal, who was shot twice, is listed in stable condition.

Puetz said law enforcement had used tear gas and live fire.

Harmon said suspect had an "extensive criminal history" and was "wanted on aggravated battery." The suspect now has the officers' weapons and ammunition, in addition to his own guns, Harmon said.

Harmon called the slain cops veterans of the force who were "heroes in my eyes." He said they were well trained and prepared, but that cops rarely expect gunfire from the attic.

St. Petersburg Mayor Bill Fostersaid, "It's a dark day for the city of St. Petersburg," and said the officers and the cops who went into the building to rescue them "showed tremendous bravery."

My Miami Beach Florida Vacation Pure Imagination.wmv

2011-01-19T14:59:00.000-05:00

The Blogger Treasure Box and other stuff

2011-01-15T11:14:00.002-05:00

First off : HAPPY SATURDAY! I need to get started on this happy and sunshiny day in real life !
Making my bed and doing some dusting is on my oh so very short list of house work type things to do.

This afternoon I plan to go somewhere and take my digi along and see what I can see.

Oh and about The Blogger Treasure Box ? If you have'nt already....go take a look inside....the Blogger Template Designer is full of pretty things !

Everyone please be safe and warm ~

*****EDIT***** : Saturday absolutely was not as planned. The afternoon turned windy and chilly with grey skies , plus I navagated towards my bedroom and zapped out for hours ! I was NOT a happy camper to find I had slept the whole afternoon away!

Ha. That must be why I only got two hours sleep last night ...in the wee morning hours.

Blogger Backgrounds !

2011-01-13T16:47:00.000-05:00

I have no idea just 'when' this amazing option was applied here in Blogger, but I love it, as I just today, discovered this while I meandering around.

Blogger has oodles ( alot ) of designs of backgrounds from which to choose! Just take it slow and don't try to re-design your blog "fast" or you might miss something, lol.

This is for the newer Blogger templates. Mine is named "Awesome" which I thought was very appropriate, since my blog url is One Awesome Life.

You wanna change your background every once in awhile, or just maybe a few times a year ?
Go to "Design"
Hit the "Design Template" tab ~
Click on "Background"
There's a tiny down arrow on the right side of the little square box that shows what your current background is like.
Click on the arrow, and woweee ~ a whole lot of designs will appear from all different areas of interests.

I just discovered this myself. Hope this helps anyone who is wishing they could have a cool and different background.

ST PETERSBURG FLORIDA DALI MUSEUM MOVIE.wmv

2011-01-12T18:03:00.000-05:00

Bargains Yes ! And Doing Some Unpacking

2011-01-04T12:00:00.001-05:00

When I thought I was relocating back home to Michigan, I had most all of my furniture sold. Slowly I have been able to replace it, not by going to the stores and paying for new again, but waiting until something came up.

First, was the sofa to be replace. I had nothing to sit and relax on. I put the word out and soon found a cozy and comfy love seat, not torn or smelly at all. I did buy a slipcover for it. The loveseat was $30.00. The slipcover was $29.00, at a discount online retail site.

Second, was an easy chair ! This was brought up from the basement when I asked at the front desk if it belonged to anyone. So Al brought it up to my apartment and said it was "free." I gave him $10.00 for the work he did.

Third, is a dresser and that is to be arriving around 3:00 this afternoon. It is a nice one and was in the building storage room. There are no scratches or marks on it. It's a oak veneer probably. Al said it would not cost much. They have to get that storage room cleared out every once in a while anyway.

Now I only need two bookcases and a chest of drawers and lamps and living room tables and bedside tables.
Last night I was unpacking some boxes that were piled high in my bedroom, to make room against the wall for my dresser. Mr B was helping me, and he arranged the storage closet in my apartment really nice !

2011 - A New Year Has Arrived !

2011-01-01T12:14:00.001-05:00

I hope and pray for world wide Peace, family Peace, and friends Peace. A brand new year has arrived, right on time ! The timing could not be most perfect. ( Slamming the door on 2010 ! )

Oh I do have plans and high hopes for this year...all things are possible :) But God's plans for me takes precedence over all of my plans....as these last two years have proved !

Catching my readers up ~

I will be content to remain here in my cozy 11th floor apartment in the city, as I know this location of the United States is where I am most comfortable, health-wise and yes, I admit it ~ it's nice here most all the time ! My body only screams out in horrific pain some days. I like the good days and I know my days will not be "all bad." Just a few. So I can handle this quite well, here.

As for my hand and wrist and fingers surgery, I will not be having any surgery unless I have an actual emergency of a full blown infection....like a few weeks ago! That just healed itself...amazing. I will do second and third surgeon opinions if and when the time comes .

Blessings and Happyness to all ~ 2011 has arrived, and I hope it will be awesome for everyone !

Christmas 2010 and New Years 2011

2010-12-29T13:37:00.002-05:00

The sounds of Christmas are winding down and soon another new year will be here. I received many nice gifts for Christmas ......a gift card from Mom and also one from my aunt and uncle..... and from one of my friends ( Bob ) a portable DVD player case that I can take on buses and in the doctor waiting rooms, a dark brown leather shoulder bag with organization....

cozy pajamas , aqua color ......and a Rubik's Cube ! I solved the puzzle Christmas Eve and probably will never be able to do that again ! Oh and lastly, Santa always brings me a gift that he knows I would especially like !

It is a Sony Digital Cyber-Shot DSC-H55 with 14.1 megapixels and 10x zoom ! I already made a video of Bob opening one of his gifts and it's in YouTube. The sound is excellant ! This is the first time I have strayed away from Kodak digitals , having owned three of them.

Mom also sent me a small Christmas package to open and with this were a few pictures she took the last couple of months.......one picture, one picture has brought back so many precious moments from my childhood.

Just by looking at this picture of my childhood home where I grew up and graduated and then moved with my husband at age 18 to Oceanview Virginia....brought back alot of nice memories. From the front porch swing to the bicycle decorating for Labor Day Homecoming Celebration, this picture is priceless ! It's a best Christmas gift.

Another "best" Christmas gift is the surprise that my friend Ron gave me ! I have wanted to see snow ! He gave snow to me !!! Yes, believe it !!

It's in my video for Christmas on my YouTube Channel. He put the animated snow falling down over all my pictures all through-out the video! I had sent him the movie when I finished making it with Windows Movie Maker....and Ron surprised me with the snow . Smiles.

New Year's Eve and a New Year 2011 is almost here. I pray for good health , at least better health than the struggles I have had this year. I pray for Peace and Good Will for the World.

Happy New Year 2011 !!

Saturday and Here's My Silly Christmas Video ! ( edit)

2010-12-04T22:28:00.002-05:00

I have been busy today Christmas shopping. I like to celebrate Christmas the whole month of December . I'm going to have to do a bit of un-packing because some Christmas items are packed away in the moving boxes. I can always re-pack them later.

I joined in the SingSnap "Naughty or Nice" Christmas Challenge and it was fun! I did a video and wore antlers, lol. We were supposed to be creative ~ I sang Jingle Bells with antlers on my head and 'jingled the bells' during the song..........Please excuse parts of my singing, as my lung capacity is limited after having the injection Wednesday.

I've started recording my Christmas music already and found some beautiful themes to go with, for the backgrounds. First one is , Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. I love this song and dedicated it to my brother Dan who passed away...too soon. He loved Christmas more than anyone that I personally know !

It was a most gorgeous day today! The high was 70* supposedly. It was cool this morning but in the afternoon,Scoot and I went to the market and I only wore my cords and a slip-over knit sweater. The sunshine was nice and I soaked it up. I saw one of my friends I have'nt seen in a long time, down at the outside sitting area and we talked half an hour. He was on his break, he said. Glad we ran into each other. Probably won't see him for another year, lol !

I'm trying to brace myself and get my mind set and ready for the cold blast we are forcasted to have this coming week. Temps at night to be in the 30's.

Have been enjoying some time over on FaceBook. I did'nt think I'd go back and re-activate, but it's fine and I'm finding some more friends. I don't go for those silly apps and games they have though....to each their own, I say!

Makin' Believe by Sunnylane.wmv

2010-11-28T12:57:00.000-05:00

Family Ties, Feeling Warm and Cozy

2010-11-26T11:54:00.001-05:00

I just got off the phone with my Aunt and Uncle. Aunt Fran shares alot with me, as we talk often. I got to talk with Uncle Chuck too! They are both two of the nicest and warm-hearted people you'd ever wanna meet ! Aunt Fran shared a story of "Black Friday" from about twenty-five years ago. lol. Bless her soul!

I talked with Mom yesterday before all the shindigs began. lol. Shindigs. That means Thanksgiving Day celebrations, in 'country-talk.' We had a nice little talk for a little more than an hour. She and her gentleman friend were going out to a relatives house for dinner at 2:00p.m. Mom said she came home "stuffed" as she told my Aunt Fran last night, lol!

Of course I *was* supposed to be all moved back *home* to Michigan...and these holidays are rough....but I know there's a reason for everything ~ still, I just try to get through the tears, and be happy, because I have soooo many blessings, I really do !

"May your days be Merry and bright! "

*Smiles*

Happy Thanksgiving November 25th 2010

2010-11-24T07:28:00.001-05:00

Wishing all my readers a happy and wonderful Thanksgiving.

As most of you know, I've recently had bump after bumps in the road of life ~ but I have many many blessings. I'm thankful for every single one of them, right down to the most simple, smallest one.

I'm looking forward to the coming year and plan to relocate back home in Michigan, spending next Thanksgiving with family and friends there !

This is a photo Mom took for me of a farm most all of my small hometown went to to buy fresh vegetables and fruits and other goodies, home-grown !

Please be safe and warm, and have a wonderful holiday, no matter where you are or who you are with , everyone all over the world has something to be thankful for !

CHRISTMAS IN JULY 2010

2010-11-21T07:25:00.001-05:00

http://www.singsnap.com/snap/r/c29b72dc2

This is me singing on cam. Yikes! I had forgotten how swollen my face is, in the early mornings when I first wake up.

If "only in my dreams" is the only way I'm going home for Christmas this year, then so be it.

The weather report for Michigan for this coming week is "COLD!" I'm talking about it's forcasted to be in the 20's and 30's for highs. Winds and snow are also forcasted. S-N-O-W .

SNOW BALL FIGHT ! YESSSSS! *GIGGLES* YOU FORGOT TO DUCK - I GOT YA !

I do hope you enjoy my recording ~ Roland is the one providing the music of his fantastic guitar.

Have a wonderful Sunday.....****Note***** Here is another version I recorded for "Christmas In July." back in July of this year.

So Did Anything Exciting Happen Today, In Your Life ?

2010-11-17T20:53:00.002-05:00

Oh look at me ~ I wrote a title with a question, lol.
Well, since I cannot take trips anymore that are more than an hour away, my neighbor and friend Bob, did.

He went on a Martz bus trip to this little unknown place in Florida called "Catfish Johnny's." ( But Bob and the others on the tour did'nt get to have any catfish!) They serve that only on Friday nights and Saturday's.

I looked at the pictures Bob took and the inside looks like a nice , clean " Country"-Club. Only it's not stuck-up, everyone there is really friendly and they have a band called" The Hushpuppy's" complete with steel guitars.

I'm surprised Bob sat through country music, lol. Not even his style !
I liked the outside dining area the best! It was picnic tables !

The exciting part of my day was when he got back, he called me and said he had a surprise for me . :) I went down to his place on my way down to check my mail, on Scoot.

Guess what he brought back for me ?! Noooo, it is not catfish, hahah!
The Martz bus dropped off everyone for a half hour at a huge Russell Stover Store! He brought me back a whole shopping bag of Russell Stover sugar candy. Some is the little bags of chocolates, various kinds, and some bars of Pecan Delights, and a bag of tiny jelly beans! Yum !

Trick r Treat ? Teehee. Lots of treats !

Surgery Will Be Done In Michigan

2010-11-15T07:20:00.003-05:00

I have made a decision not to travel on the bus to the medical complex here in Florida. I just cannot do this on my own.
All my friends that have a car, are working. The friend who I'm 'closest to' lives here in the building but.....and I'll drop it at this point.

I've made a decision to have my surgery done back home in Michigan . I talked with my Aunt and Uncle yesterday afternoon for a little over an hour. Then called Mom but she was not at home. I called her later last evening and we talked 30 minutes or so.

I'm re-scheduling today's ultrasound , as I'm not feeling very well to go to an appointment. Also, the set appointment for followup from the veinous ultrasound will need to be re-scheduled.

Wednesday I will go to my usual injection for R.A. appointment......and hopefully be able to come straight home and eat a light lunch and then take a nap......like I'm *supposed* too.

Yesterday I was supposed to be on my way back home, and today would have been arriving to my new home with the river near-by and the woods halfway around the perimeter.

Sunday was stressful and I hope today is beautiful and 'restful.'

Two Doctors Yesterday and Next Week, More

2010-11-11T17:18:00.001-05:00

This is sort of an update to let you all know what's happening.
First of all, thankyou all for your love and support. It is very much appreciated.

Yesterday, Wednesday, I saw my primary Doc and he examined my hand and fingers and told me of a good surgeon he knew of. Then he gave me my chemo injection.

The vascular hand surgeon has his office just two blocks down from my primary Doc. I was supposed to go home after that chemo injection......and eat lunch and lay down to rest to let the shot do it's stuff inside my ole body.

But instead, Scoot and I decided to go the other direction instead of the catching the bus direction, so I could see what and where the office building was, and also make my appointment right then.

Oops. The nurse at the window took one look and asked me if I was able to be seen "now." I was totally shocked. This is a very busy specialist. So of course I said, "yes, thankyou!"

I filled out an eight page form and waited patiently about an hour and twenty minutes. Their nursing crew is very nice and very knowledgable. Soon after being checked and questions answered to the attending nurse, my Specialist Doc came in.

Wow! I was really impressed. ( My primary Doc had said not to be scared, that this new Doc did'nt have much of a friendly talkative manner.)

He was really nice , also concerned and compassionate . He was gentle with me and we got along fabulously! Okay, onto results thus far:

Veinous ultrasound at 10:00a.m. Monday November 15th 2010, at his office complex here in St Petersburg, FL.

November 18th at 2:30 p.m. is a followup of the testing with Doc Collins.
Now this is the scarey part of it all: On Friday, November 19th at 10:00a.m. I have to go on a strange bus route, a new route, and it's a very long trip up there to this huge medical complex with surgical center in the same building.

This is for the hand surgeon himself. He's very young, but comes highly reccommended and has amazing credentials. Hmmm, he has been doing surgery for "4" years. He is a resident of St Petersburg and grew up and graduated here from highschool and college.

Last but not least, I have not forgotten: God Bless Our Veterans and Troops on this day of rememberance for them all. "THANKYOU."

Surgery Soon

2010-11-09T11:48:00.001-05:00

Referring to the pictures below of my left hand and fingers, I will be having surgery soon. No I do not know the exact date for this, yet. I have an appointment with the first doctor tomorrow. Then will see a hand/vein specialist, and after that will be the hand, vascular surgeon consult and scheduling for the very intricate surgery.

Summed up, I guess you know what this means. My journey back *home* has been post-poned until next year. I have had to call alot of family, friends and businesses to cancel appointments and explain that I will not be coming back home, as planned.

My new bed for which I have paid already, was to be delivered and set up , this Monday, the 15th. Mom was going over and make it up with my bed linens on Monday so when we arrived we could go right to bed, as it would be late.

Being the nice people that they are, the furniture store office worker has credited this back to me. My hometown is a small one. Everyone is special and so nice .

My friend Tom who was driving us , was nice enough to call me yesterday and ask me if I knew around the time I would be going again. He has to put in for the vacation weeks they want for next year, this week, Thursday.

I hope there will be something available in June, July, August, or September 2011. I'm leaving everything packed. I was ready to go, and then my hand and fingers got really bad.

I don't feel like blogging, I don't feel like singing, even. Not right now anyway.

My bed did'nt get sold and I still have my large tv and also the one in the bedroom. I'm eating on my small desk , using it for a table. I have this large computer desk I'm using and my desk chair. Everything else is sold. I did good selling my furniture.

I'd rather be home in the next few months of cold weather , and the season because after winter, comes three most very beautiful seasons in my lovely hometown.

I will miss seeing the bunny rabbits hopping around in the snow, and watching the deer go running through the woods that surround the property where I would have been living as of November 15th, this coming Monday.

I have some pictures of all the "work" or most of it, to post in here later.

I have a different attitude today. It's not happy and perky. I'm at a place that I feel like I never have before. I have so many questions, and even though I did'nt "ask" God for answers, He gave them to me anyway, a few nights ago.

Road Trip

2010-10-30T09:17:00.000-04:00

It's almost time...time for me to get going on a long road trip from Florida to Michigan.

Plans are moving along nicely, and so is packing, and all things involved when one moves.

My perky happy side is with me, and I have set my mind to think this way:

I'm on a vacation here in Florida. In two weeks and two days, I will be leaving to go back home to Michigan. This way I won't miss Florida so badly.

I will miss some very dear friends I had made over the past 11 years, and of course, the warm temperatures compared to the cold winters in Michigan. Winter passes and soon the beautiful three seasons will be there.

It's just time....time for me to go home and stay there this......time.

Picture of My Left Hand

2010-10-26T07:35:00.002-04:00

Going home and all my plans just might be halted. Besides a broken wrist, it now has nerve damage. My knees are letting me 'walk' a few steps inside my apartment, but not walking down the hallway, (yet!) The inside of my broken wrist now has nerve damage ( ouch) and I'm still having to wear a brace/splint......but all of this is not the reason I might not be going back home, as planned.

Oh goody (NOT!) I now have an infection on my second finger on my left hand, because of a contracture that was left there since childhood. The tendon has curled down into the palm of my hand. The fingernail keeps growing! It has now pierced the skin. Infection has been oozing out some.

This is serious, because I already know about what happens with infections and what to do.....no I won't be putting hydrogen peroxide on it! I did much research last night and found ER's and hospitals don't even use that anymore. Best to tell the Doc about this.

After I get my chemo injection, I will tell him. I'm concerned because this is very intricate and delicate surgery. I will need a "radialectomy" taking out the second finger and the first finger. I will post in this same entry later, a picture, only so anyone who reads this will know what I'm talking about.

I don't want the surgery 'here' in Florida. I need to get home and have it done there, with amazing skilled doctors, and to be around family and friends I've know forever! Infections sometimes don't wait for everybody. They progress as they please, fast or slow.

This morning I'll be getting fitted and measured with a new brace for my wrist. Gotta take meds, wait an hour, then eat breakfast and go with Scoot on the bus.

Why do I say this is one awesome life ?

Because.....I'm still alive !

ONE AWESOME LIFE !

2010-10-11T13:37:00.000-04:00

LIFE IS REALLY AMAZING AND MINE IS AWESOME.
ONE AWESOME LIFE !

I'M SO HAPPY TODAY, AND IT'S ALL BECAUSE OF MY OWN CHOICES ! *SMILES*

Unbelievable !

2010-10-09T08:46:00.001-04:00

I had yet another worker ( a social worker ) who was scheduled to be here Saturday (today) from 10 to 12 noon. for set up of "services" but she called last night and said " something has come up" She changed the time. Now it would be a two hour visit from 3:00 to 5:00pm . Nope. No way. I called the main office and told them to cancel.

The "services" I found out, do not consist of any of the things I actually am not able to do! Vacuming, mopping the bathroom and kitchen floor, and cutting my toenails are all things I have tried to do, but was unable to. I could'nt even get the cannister vacumn out of the closet.

I told my Aunt all of this last night and she said Michigan does all of these things, plus are very nice to the clients, whether on the phone, or while they are at a client's house.

So, what do they do, anyway? Oh and transportation to doctors and shopping is not done either. That's also included in Michigan.

The home health aide does all the little things like doing dishes, light cooking, making the bed, etc. I can still ( fortunately ) do the little things. They know this already, as was discussed in my first interview. So why would they send out a home health aide for this ? Let me tell you ! ( you already know the answer ) yes.

Medicare is getting ripped off bigtime and has been for decades. This situation with me is just a tiny part of it.

INR/PT Range Too High UPDATE EDIT 2ND EDIT UPDATE 10082010

2010-10-07T16:28:00.004-04:00

Well, my visiting nurse called and said she'd be a half hour late for our 2:30p.m. appointment this afternoon. It became 3:30 p.m. and no nurse, and no phone call.
Then at 3:42p.m. I got a phone call on my home phone as to what was happening.

I figured that she was held up in traffic today, as in this city it happens often and besides that, we have the big TampaBay Rays game going on. Traffic is a mess all over .

It seems that she had to go after the INR/PT finger-pick machine from another nurse. The company only has one machine. The reason for this INR/PT test to be done on a finger-pick machine is that it gives instant results, and can save lives, as oppossed to going to the labs and waiting two to five days for results.

In my situation, the last INR/PT test I had done was last Friday and the Doc's office just got the result Tuesday, this week. My results were high. The range is to be between 2 and 3. My result was 4.21.

Hemmoraging internally and stroke are common with high readings like this, as my visiting nurse pointed out to me. ( I already was aware of this anyway )

So she called the doctor to get authorization to use the machine and Doc said he wanted this test done on "Friday." This is when he will be in his office to receive the results. Until noon, that is.

So, I will skip my third Warfarin dose of 6mg daily, this evening. Good. As far as I'm concerned, I will stay off it forever. It's rat poison, afterall. I eat enough anti-inflammatory foods which all raise the INR/PT, anyway.

So now the nurse's schedule has to be changed and she's being nice and very accommodating, as to my doctor's wishes. First he did say "Thursday" for this test to be done.

The nurse will be here in the morning sometime after 9:30a.m. Then I can ( hopefully) breath a sigh of relief, if the INR/PT has gone down.**Update** It's Friday now and it's almost 10:20a.m. I called her cell phone and she said "they sent her down to ( such and such a place) and she will be here at noon now, today. "

This makes two days I have wasted sitting around the house "waiting" for them to show up! And right at lunch/snack time too. Grrr.

I have things to do and would have liked to get them done this morning, before it gets too hot ( 86* ) this afternoon!

I just have to take this. No choice , well I could fire them. Not a wise thing to do, though. In Michigan it's not like this at all. ( My Aunt used to work for the Medicare/State . ** End of Update/Edit **

Oh geesh. The photo jumped into the wrong place. Wonder how that happened?! It's a craft sale going on out at Pass-A-Grille Beach.

Second **EDIT UPDATE** : She never came until 12:40p.m. She did have the finger-pick machine with her. but...oops, the batteries were dead! DUH! She discovers this only after she pierces my finger.
So she changed the batteries. ( It's supposed to work now) so the nurse takes another finger and wipes with alcohol pad ( the ones I gave her because "hers was down in her car!" )
Oops again, the machine will not work. It has new batteries. ( She obviously did not know how to do this !) " I don't know what's wrong" she said.

So I had to call my doctor's office and see what I should do. I have been OFF Coumadin ( Warfarin) for three nights now. If I take a 6 mg tonight, I can hemmorage/or have a stroke.
If I don't take any the range for INR/PT could be too low. I will get most likely a pulmonary embolism.
So the Doc's nurse paged the doctor and they had me go over to a Lab and they sent a script for a stat to be done.
That was later this afternoon. Scoot and I took the bus over and back and at 4:00p.m. I am back home....wondering ~
Oh, and I sent the nurse on her way because she had nothing to do after taking my B/P and pulse. The nurse at my Doc's could have done that plus take the blood all this morning.
Yes, Life is one big lesson.
I hope to be writing more interesting posts after all of this. Sorry to bore you. ( It's upsetting *and* boring to me !

What's Happening

2010-10-05T10:29:00.001-04:00

A lot has been happening! Some people are born to stay healthy until the end of their lives. There are some who try to live a healthy lifestyle but bad things happen anyway. That's life. That's the way it is.

Count me in as one who has always tried to stay healthy. Life just kicks us anyway.
I have recently became disabled/handicapped and am trying to deal with it all. Believe me, there's a lot to *learn* to deal with. Afterall, life is one big lesson, right ?

I have good news ! :) :) :)

This past Friday afternoon, a visiting nurse came by to interview me and I did oreintation.
Pat is her name and she will be stopping in for an hour or two one day a week, not two days as she had planned on. ( Medicare/and the Agency) have different ideas about that.

There's also a "social worker" involved. It's just a one time organizing appointment, I hope. She does not work for this Agency during the week. She only works/sees clients on Saturday and Sunday. This past Sunday she was going to pop in here at 2:00pm and I called the main number to let them know Sunday I don't have any appointments at all!!

I am booked up so much of the time during the week, that I'm overwhelmed. Sunday is, indeed, my day of rest.
This Saturday L. will be here. to see what I need and what(if) they have a health aide or a housekeeping aide or both to help me. Meals on wheels is a nice option for me too, as I am not able to fix a complete dinner.

I don't zap the Healthy Choice or Stoffer's meals anymore, as I have celiac sprue and the gluten reaks havoc with my intestines. I do take Lactaid ( the Walmart brand) for the lactose in practically everything.

I'm trying not to consume too many carbs/calories now, as I'm not active anymore. My weight is maintained at 128 on my last visit to my primary doctor.

I got the "three in one" flu shot yesterday. Today I feel okay. Yesterday I had blurry eyes and got drowsy in the afternoon, and was not able to construct my thoughts and bring out the words. ( My friend Bob helped me along with that.)

By evening, all the side effects were gone. Tomorrow I go for my weekly chemo injection, and also the Doc will take a look at my left hand and see if he wants to refer me to a intricate vascular hand surgeon, or not. It's still seeping. I don't know what it is. The seeping is not extensive, so I'm not as worried as I was when it began.

I also updated and wrote about my experiences in my other blog here in Blogger. My Journal Space. You can hit the link over there on the right to get there, if you wish to know what else I wrote.
There's a party this afternoon for our administrator of our apartment building who is retiring and moving to Hawaii with his wife. Bob and I will both be there! It's at 2:00p.m.

That's all for this time.
C'ya :)

Update Soon

2010-10-04T12:33:00.000-04:00

I will be updating soon, as I have not been able to this morning....flu shot and now eating and have to go to CVS for bandages, and bandage tape.
Thankyou all so much for thoughts and prayers and get well wishes.
C'ya

Could You Accept This For The Rest of Your Life?

2010-09-29T11:31:00.002-04:00

I got the news yesterday in the orthopedic surgeon's exam room. He is a very young and knowledgable doctor, compassionate, tells it right out without beating around the bush, sits down with his patients at eye level and speaks not from only his mind, but from his heart.
I was referred to him by three friends and two doctors.

First I was directed into x-ray , where the tech was waiting for me as soon as I arrived on Scoot and my friend Bob also came along. He stayed in the outside waiting area. It's a big place over there! Total time in and out was less than an hour! Good teamwork is what makes this possible. The are all very organized.

In addition to both knees not working, I now have a broken right wrist, but it's not a large bone, it's the tiny ones. It won't take months to heal, like my broken foot did. I have a brace with splint on and even have to wear it at night, sleeping. It is helping. At least I can type away today without excruiciating pain.

Blood pressure is now higher than my usual because of all the body stress going on, plus the news I got yesterday from the surgeon. I had already prayed and prepared myself, and had a really great mind-set to deal with whatever kind of surgery and the hard part after the surgery.

But I was not prepared for this.......

On My Journal Space blog here, I wrote about the fact that I knew I was sick, but did'nt realize just how sick. I am un-insurable. Period. Three companies denied me and one very nice personable company who I called and wanted to know details, told me of the doctor's reports. I have to be "not sick" for 18 months before I re-apply.

Now this........I'm not a "candidate for surgery." "There's nothing I can do for you, I'm sorry Ms Nelson."

I will not walk ever again unless there's a miracle. I *can, however* stand to cook something fast or prepare lunch if it's not involved. I make sure to fix nutritious and easy foods.

I *can* take steps but not walking steps, it's just careful movements, very slowly. I *can* get from the scooter to the commode, or from the chair to the scooter, etc.

The surgeon said there are "two biggies" with my health issues and surgery. First was meds and blood clots. I would have to be without Warfarin, ( to prevent blood clots) for two weeks. They would put a stent/filter in the vein in my stomach to stop any blood clots from traveling to my heart and lungs, like I had in 2004 and 2005. Again very risky with perforation etc.

The second biggie was : " You would not even be able to do the physical rehabilitation, required after the two total knee replacements, because of upper body complications, severe osteoporosis, and R.A. and weakness."

I will deal with all of this in my own way, but I do know I will deal with it. That's my choice. To deal with it.

Today it's all still fresh in my mind, words echoing from yesterday. I have broken down several times. Yesterday was a doozy, but today twice my bewilderment at all of this pain and how to handle news like this, is better. It comes and goes.

I have to accept my life like it is, no matter what......because I'm still alive..............and yes, I have already thought about which is better....and that's all I'm saying about that. It's just normal to think this way, in the beginning.

So, my little scooter ( Scoot) and I are best buds.

I was told 6 years ago from my former R.A. Doc that this crippling disease would get worse, not better. I had no comprehension that my last days, however many days, in life would be like this, especially since I was always a very active person. I even worked for years, disabled. I was disabled, but still able, although it was rough and painful. I loved all of my jobs I had through-out my life between age 20 something and 50 something.

I can handle this news of not being able to walk again...but it will take time. I refuse to do the sad part and not accept my life. I do accept what has been given me. I will deal with it.

I had my methotrexate injection for the R.A. this morning, and while I was there, my nurse asked Doc about getting me "home health care." I do qualify now. It's just a matter of gettin co-ordinated and going through an interview. Doc will try to set up something, if he can find the right one.

Meet My New Puppy Snuggles !

2010-09-25T11:46:00.002-04:00

Hi, my name is Snuggles and I am a Jack Russell Terrier. I don't need to be potty trained and I only bark when another dog is walking by and "sniffs" at me. If they bark, then I will bark back. LOL.

I guard Sunny's basket of *stuff* and nobody better dare mess with us! Scoot has a basket that Sunny puts all her stuff in ( junk too) if she thinks she needs it. A couple of cel phones, a bottle of water, a small diet coke, a little purse filled with goodies, a pen and small writing tablet , a list of market items needed, a bus pass, is what is normally in Scoot's basket.

I was setting among all the other pets in the St Anthony's Gift Shop last Wednesday and Sunny and Scoot showed up! I saw Sunny pick up another puppy first. It was even bigger than me, and we all cost the same amazing price of only $12.00. I almost barked at Sunny to chose me! I wanted so much to go riding around in Scoot's basket with her!

She chose me ! She picked me out of all the others waiting to find a good home. :) Yay I get to go riding all over St Petersburg, and take trips on the trolleys and buses !

If you have not already guess by now, I'm not a real puppy, but I think I am !

The First Full Day of Fall or Autumn

2010-09-23T07:26:00.001-04:00

I guess technically yesterday at 11:09 p.m. was the actual first day of "Fall" or Autumn, as it's known by both.
But today is the first * full * day of Fall !

It's hot and sunny here in St Petersburg, Florida and summer is still on, yay! At times we have felt the cool air, like early in the morning, but when noon rolls around, head out to the beach, if you are so inclined or able to do that !

Fall will be felt here too, we just have to have a little patience. I like my summer clothers but also love the sweaters and jackets. I don't, however, like winter or the heavy clothes, especially winter coats, no matter how fashionable or smart they look. I like "light and easy." Last winter here in our area we broke record cold temperatures! Yes, it was way too cold.

Last but not least, it's still hurricane season. We have been lucky so far this year, and I'm praying and hoping they all stay away from us...that means that "disturbance/depression" that's swirling around down south of us.

Organic Smart Balance Spread

2010-09-19T16:51:00.002-04:00

When the makers of my most favorite Smart Balance spread added " Vitamin D " into the spread I used which was Smart Balance Light, I immediately freaked out.

I do not need more Vitamin D thankyou ! It's in my cheese slices I eat every day. It's in my daily multi-vitamin I take every day. It's in so many things, if not naturally, the companies are going wild and adding Vitamin D to their products.

Vitamin D can and will accumulate in our bodies. That can cause problems. A few years ago, I had a doctor advise me to take my two calcium tablets a day, with "Vitamin D " added into the tablets!
Okay, for two days I took altogether 4 tablets of Calcium with the D added into it.
My back area , matter of fact, the kidneys, were hurting so bad. It was horrible pain. I knew to stop the Calcium with Vitamin D added to it.

I was correct. The pain went away , almost magically. Another place I personally get Vitamin D from is good ole Mother Nature, the sunshine!

I hate when a great product ruins it by adding in things it does not need to add in there. Leave my food alone.

Well, I scouted around and found another Smart Balance Spread product: See the above picture. It's all organic and another plus is that it's "expeller-pressed." That means the oils are not bathed with chemicals.

I do hope Smart Balance does not mess with this newly found favorite spread of mine!

My Challenge Awards !

2010-09-09T08:28:00.000-04:00

The twelve weeks of SingSnap Summerfest has came to a close. I completed ten of the twelve challenges! I had a blast. I have to say, I had the most fun with the puppet sock challenge, lol.

We had to make a sock puppet and sing a duet with "it" ! I named mine Mindy and glued beige yarn on its head and made the eyes with sparkle jewels I glued on. The lips I just made with lipstick.
The song I recorded for this duet in a side by side video is "Bubbly"
The special nic is for the month of September for those of us who completed ten to twelve Summerfest 2010 Challenges! I love it !

Yahoo My Flickr Account

2010-09-07T10:37:00.004-04:00

I have been looking at my photos in my Yahoo Flickr account this morning. Just reminising and also looking at some other contacts photos there.

Here is my Flickr address is you would like to view my photos :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/judy711/ which is my "photostream."

http://www.flickr.com/people/judy711/ which is my profile page there.

I was particularily interested in my Miami Beach pictures, as they brought back some nice memories. This year I was not able to vacation in Miami Beach because of finances and also health issues.

If I can ever travel again I know this: I will go back home to lower Michigan and that will be a vacation in September. It's most always very nice weather up there in the Fall !

Nearing the End of Summer

2010-09-03T09:50:00.001-04:00

This is my home where I was raised till I was five and Gramma and Grandpa lived across the street. The Flat River flows ever so peacefully by.

Summer has been fun and hot! Record heat temps were set all over the USA and the World! I love summer :) I also look forward to that slight feeling in Fall, of the cooler temperatures. They are very slightly cooler here in St Petersburg Florida, lol.

Now winter, this is a different story!! Really. Last winter it was as cold here alot of days as it was back home in Michigan, my home state. We even broke a record cold low temperature.

This weekend, my beautiful small home town is doing it's annual thing....having their Homecoming Celebration. This is the time of year I get homesick. Most all of my readers know this,lol.

Last year was really bad , so bad that I was buying a house but at the last minute before I signed the contract/mortgage papers, found out via my Sis and Mom that a few things which were very huge and expensive , needed to be replaced.

Every thing happens for a reason. I think I'm where I'm supposed to be. Right here where I have been for the last 11 years. Same apartment building for the last five years.

I will miss the big parade and our very awesome High School Band, the whole celebration with barb 'b qued chicken and pig down by the Riverside area, with the Flat River flowing by.

Meeting up with old friends and seeing family again is what the home town Labor Day Celebration is all about! Good times, good food, and good clean fun !

I hope everyone has a great Labor Day celebration whatever you do or wherever you go, have fun, relax, and be safe!

Hurricane Earl East Coast Prepare Now !

2010-08-31T10:03:00.003-04:00

Okay , USA East coast, *now* is the time to prepare and get your supplies stocked up!

Get to the stores now! Buy gallons of drinking water, at least 1 gallon for each person per day, for two weeks!

Food! Canned foods, tuna, vienna saugages, chicken, crackers, cookies, veggies, fruit cups, bread, peanut butter and jelly, anything that is not perishable and is nutritious for you! You will need strength to endure this storm. Your mind has to be alert and clear!

Put your important papers, documents, and precious photographs in plastic zip-lock bags. Get your money out from the ATM's asap! When the power goes out...no more money.

Wrap your computer, monitor, and printer/scanner and all tech goodies in plastic or large plastic bags, and set them up high, just in case water from flooding gets your home.

Make sure you pay attention to your local stations and be sure to have fresh batteries and a small radio. When and if you have an evacuation advisory, heed the warnings !! Go !!

The surf will look mighty inviting, as it currently does already. Do not go out into the water! Rip currents are fast and furious. They will eat you up alive !! Keep the kids out of the water and watch them every single minute!

Be sure and have your luggage packed ( one per person) when and if the time comes to evacuate to a hurricane designated shelter.

I have a feeling that hurricane Earl will blow into North Carolina and Virginia coastlines. Just a feeling I have.

Long Island New York, you better be on the lookout too! Who knows what Earl will do? What way will he go? Only God knows.
Start packing and praying and getting your supplies on hand. NOW !

Hurricane Katrina, Remembering This Monster Storm

2010-08-29T08:05:00.001-04:00

Today is the anniversary of hurricane Katrina, August 29th 2005-2010. Today I'm watching some TV shows about this monster storm. Today is a day to bow our heads and pray.
My heart goes out to the survivors and family and friends and also to the family and friends of those who did not survive.
God bless all the survivors and family and friends who went through this terrible and devastating tragedy; may He help you and hold you up, make you strong and re-build your lives.

No Rain Today !

2010-08-26T23:08:00.001-04:00

Wow! After having four straight days and nights of heavy rains, clouds and some storms mixed in, today was a blessing, indeed! The sun even came out, not bright, but was out!

I hopped on Scoot and we drove to the market before 8:00 this morning., to buy some food.I did'nt even have breakfast yet.

I saw on the Doppler Radar, that there was a big break in the clouds, nice and clear, so we went while we could, because Scoot is not supposed to get wet! His motor will short out. Rain had been forcasted previously.

That's all I did as far as doing any errands today. I took a much needed nap this afternoon, as these past weeks have been leaving me feeling drained.

Not much more to write about for today,lol. It has just been one of those nice, relaxing kinds of days! :)

Just A Personal Blog Entry

2010-08-25T08:27:00.000-04:00

Oh my! I'm trying to get back into my personal blogging mode of which I have lost ever since the old JS Land went down the drains, never to return again.
I've been lax at reading so many blogs here , and it's not because I did'nt want too, it's because I've either been sick or busy or doing things in real life. Oh add to this my *singing*

Well, I know when winter comes in ( patiently waiting for the time change!) I'll be around more often and will be blogging more often.

In an hour or so I'm off and running, or should I say "being pushed in a wheelchair" out to the taxi and into my Doc's for this weekly chemo injection again. Wow! It's been so great not having that poison shot since July 7th ! (reason being is when antibiotics are in one's system, no chemo allowed!)

Okay it's been 3 darn days of clouds and no sun, just heavy storms and tropical rains. Today as I look out my 11th floor window, it looks the same as yesterday!

Scoot has to go into the Repair Hospital soon. His wheels are clunking and he needs 2 new batteries. They cost $110 each plus the tune-up. Oh my goodness.

Happy news ? I'm smiling this morning :)
C'ya !

REMEMBERING HURRICANE ANDREW ! A CAT 5 HURRICANE

2010-08-24T12:29:00.003-04:00

The storm that grew to major hurricane status would go down in history as one of the most devastating and costliest natural disasters in U.S. history. It's name was Andrew.

The storm began as a weak tropical wave emerging from the west coast of Africa on August 14, 1992. Ten days later, the storm made landfall on the southeast Florida coast as a Category 5 monster.

"Category 5" describes hurricane with sustained winds of at least 155 mph. The storm made landfall at Elliott Key, FL, just south of Miami with 165 mph winds.

Andrew was the first named storm and only major hurricane of the otherwise inactive 1992 Atlantic hurricane season.

During Andrew's duration it struck the northwestern Bahamas, southern Florida at Homestead (south of Miami), and southwest Louisiana around Morgan City in August.

Andrew caused $26.5 billion in damage ($41.1 billion 2010 USD), with most of that damage cost in south Florida;

however, other sources estimated the total cost between $27 billion to $34 billion. Its central pressure ranks as fourth-lowest in U.S. landfall records.

I had relocated back home to Michigan a few years before this happened. On the morning of August 24, 1992, I was on the phone talking to my dear friend, Patti H. The fear in her voice made me cry and start praying heavy duty prayers.

As we continued to talk, I tried to calm Patti ~ She was at that time the same age that I am now. All of a sudden we heard loud yelling, on megaphones coming down her hallway in the apartment building across from the ocean on Collins Ave Miami Beach Florida.

It was the National Guard, and they knocked down her door and I heard Patti scream. I was so scared for her and all my other friends there.

They all survived and later when all were allowed to go back home, I sent out a huge box of much needed supplies, from my post office in Michigan to Patti and our friends. All shared what I had packed and shipped out to them. The stores were empty of everything!

It was an experience that I hope I never have to go through, or endure in my lifetime here in St Petersburg, Florida.

Hurricane Andrew was the third most powerful Category 5 hurricane to make landfall in the USA.

St Petersburg Pier Proposed Demolition DUMB IDEA!

2010-08-19T07:31:00.005-04:00

Our St. Petersburg landmark pier is set for demolition. The St Petersburg Pier ! Who in their right mind would do such a thing ? So how much will it cost to do the demolition ? How much will it cost to "build a bridge from the Vinoy out to the pier area?" This is a proposed idea) DUMB. What about the shops and restaurants and all of these people that will LOSE THEIR JOBS?

The city council on Wednesday endorsed Mayor Bill Foster's recommendation to demolish the inverted pyramid at The Pier.

The upside-down pyramid pier opened in 1974. Its condition has deteriorated, and the pier is set for a $50 million overhaul. Soooo, just spend the $50 million on renovating and leave our beloved Pier there ! This is one of the main attractions our tourists come to visit !

The inverted pyramid icon is not in dire condition. It's the bridge that leads to everything that's deteriorating! LEAVE OUR PIER ICON THERE!

Residents go there to fish, and inside to shop and socialize. There are dances ( free) every Wednesday! There are booths in the food arcade that we can enjoy the Tampa Bay view while eating, and chatting. There is a rooftop restaurant, and also on the top we can look way out to sea and the view is priceless! The breezes blowing through one's hair, the air so refreshing, watching the sailboats and other recreational boats is a favorite past time of mine !

What a waste of money and breaking peoples hearts! The tourists will NOT come downtown, into "St Petersburg if this happens ! They will stay out on the beaches. They will go to other cities that pique their interests!

And Bill Foster thinks this is a good thing ? That we all will get used to it? HAH. I hope to be at that public meeting before that last vote is cast by the city council.

Foster says the pier needs to come in closer to shore, and it's time to change its shape. He says the city is losing money by keeping The Pier as is. WELL I HAVE NEWS FOR YOU, MAYOR FOSTER ~ NOT ONLY IS ST PETERSBURG GOING THROUGH ROUGH ECONOMY, SO ARE MOST ALL OF THE OTHER USA CITIES! ARE THEY TEARING ICONS DOWN JUST TO BUILD SOMETHING FANCIER? LEAVE OUR PIER ALONE, AND FIX THE BRIDGE WITH YOUR $50 MILLION DOLLARS!

The council will choose a finalist to design the new pier. WE DON'T NEED A "NEW PIER!"

Doc Sent Me To The Emergency Room

2010-08-14T10:25:00.001-04:00

So did anything happen to *you* on Friday the 13th ? Was it uneventful, or how did you spend your day yesterday ?

I had my regular every 2 months checkup with the R.A. and bone specialist Doc yesterday. It ended up being a two part exam/discussion.
To make a long story short , he took one look at my left knee, leg, and foot, all with heavy contusions, and marked swelling and said " I'd like you to go to the emergency room. I said "Now?" He said "Yes! Go right from 'here' to the E.R. at Bayfront.
Bob went with me to both the Doc and ER. We left home at 10:00a.m. and finally arrived back home at a little after 5:00p.m.
I got extremely good care in the Bayfront Hospital Emergency Room. Compassion , efficiency, and smiles were abundant. My Doc there had a infectious smile and a wonderful patient "we'll get you better" attitude!
I will blog about what all is going on at another time. The good news ( yes, there's good news:) is that through all this spreading heavy bleeding, the ultrasound procedure did not find any blood clots.

Very Sick With Complications

2010-08-12T22:48:00.001-04:00

I know that sounds strange ! But here's an update ~
July 12th, I had heatstroke. No biggie, and was better next morning.
July 14th I had a bladder/kidney infection with a large amount of white blood cells in the speciman.
I had an injection of Roceftin ( heavy duty antibiotic) plus the 7 day dose of Doxycycline.

I got over that and turned around and had staph infection in my right arm/elbow area. I got another injection in my Doc's office, of Roceftin. For 10 days, I took Keflex 3 times a day. The last dose was Monday, this week.

I got my blood tests results, CBC and Hepatic Panel , back today. Alarmingly, there is still a very high "white blood cell count." Also, there are several more items there that are borderline.
I have not had my chemo injection ( 0.6cc of Methotrexate) since July 7th. So it's not that medicine that's knocking me down. Protein is down and so is Albumin. I have been eating plenty of protein, the correct kind, too!

To add to all of this, I had/have a meniscus tear and a R.A. flare-up in my left knee. My R.A. Bone doctor saw me this past Thursday , as they worked me in between the patients. At that time, Doc had to examine my knee joint. He pressed on the front and the sides , as it was very swollen and I could not walk on that leg.

Since last Thursday, I also went for x-rays, oh that was Friday after Doc saw me. Well, Thursday night, I noticed a bruise on the front, and fingerprint bruises on each side of my knee.

Then Friday night and Saturday, the bleeding/bruising began , and it has been traveling my whole left leg now, and also the knee area, and tonight, my left foot is swollen and black and blue too.

I have an appointment to see the R.A. doctor in the morning. He is a very gentle and mild-mannered soul. I know he did'nt think anything like this would happen to me. I would not even think of blaming him.

All I know right now is the fact that my veins/cappillaries must be very weakened for some reason , or another. I'm shakey tonight, scared , but trusting in God to pull me out of all this.

I don't even feel like doing the SingSnap Challenge for Friday this week. I have 8 weeks of it ; I think that's enough. I did sing today, though. Was fun and a light-hearted song.

Oh and my friend , Bob, who lives here in my building will be going with me to my appointment tomorrow. He has been wonderful through all of this and has went with me to my last three appointments, plus the xray trip.

Trying to stay positve and think good things ~

DISASTER IN ST PETERSBURG

2010-07-21T23:06:00.002-04:00

This movie was produced by my friend, Ron Pannell. The two ladies parts are my voice and also my video in the background of the set. The guy's voices are spoken by Ron....It was so much fun! We collaberated and this is the result !

The software for this program is called: ICLONE.

Singing and blogging and antibiotics, oh my!

2010-07-16T17:56:00.006-04:00

Woweee, here it is Friday again. Where do the days run off to ?
In SingSnap, it's our 5th week of Summerfest Challenges. I did'nt think I was going to be able to join this week's. But I went in and did it.

No cam , because I'm very sick with a really bad kidney infection. The song, "UnChained Melody" came out nicely. We had to sing a song from a movie in the feature pages, and part two , we had to write two quotes from the movie that we like.

Mine was : Ghost and the quotes are 1. Sam Wheat " It's amazing, Molly. The love inside, you take it with you. See ya."

And for the number 2. Molly " "See ya. Bye."

I love this movie and also the song ~ and these choices of quotes are what I most always say at the end of my Cam performances. ( C' Ya ! )

Let's see, this kidney infection is a bad one. My Doctor gave me an injection of a potent , heavy-duty antibiotic on Wednesday. I knew I was not feeling very well, but just summed it up to "the weather." lol. He said I have alot of white blood cells floating around ~ and some red ones too, scarey stuff.

The next 10 days following will be more antibiotics to gulp down. I'm not tolerating too well, but not too shabby, either. I want to feel well, asap all the time !

I went to the Dale Chihuly Collections Opening here in downtow St Petersburg, on Tuesday, July 12th. Had a wonderfulful, amazing visit there to his galleries! I was virtualy "mesmerized!" I bought a hard cover book in the 10 book series, of Chihuly. I plan to buy every one. They are not expensive.

My link is not working ! Sometimes BLOGGER makes me sooooo mad ! First it worked, then I did an EDIT and Blogger will not take me link, . Grrrr.

This had better work, or I'm outta here.
http://www.singsnap.com/snap/r/b062100f0

THIS LOVE ! I won't say goodbye anymore

2010-07-10T11:26:00.000-04:00

It's Another Friday Summerfest Fun Day!

2010-07-09T16:49:00.003-04:00

The challenges are each Friday from 12:00a.m. and run 24 hours to 11:59p.m.

I have been so busy I hav'nt even written a update in here, or put the week three Challenge in here either! Well, I did it and it was named : Christmas in July! We all had to sing a Christmas song and write a story about our most memorable gift :)

This week's Challenge is quite hard ! We were notified on Wednesday to pick a number between 1 and 25. Sounds easy, right? NOT! Haha! Then we posted in the thread "I'd like to test my luck with number whichever." I picked number 7 !

Well, last night after 5:00p.m. we got to see the list of songs that were numbered 1 through 1 and 25! We had to stick with our original chosen number!
My song assigned was " This Love " by Maroon 5. LOL !

I only heard the melody 2 times, practiced four times, then said oh go out there and have fun! lol. That's what I did. This was a hard challenge, because the songs we all were to sing, most of us had no idea how they went, haha!

I'm singing on cam . I'm not afraid to sing on cam anymore, lol.

http://www.singsnap.com/snap/r/ab61fb080

President Obama Do Not Cut Into Our Social Security to Pay for Your Deficit

2010-07-01T17:14:00.001-04:00

Did you know that Washington is considering unfairly targeting Social Security benefits for cuts?

Social Security didn't cause the budget deficit, so our retirement shouldn't be put at risk to fix it!

I just signed AARP's petition to protect Social Security and keep it strong for generations to come. Please copy and paste the link below into your browser to join me – it will only take a minute.

http://action.aarp.org/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&id=779

Thanks for standing with me to keep Social Security strong.

Wondering Wandering Wednesday

2010-06-30T14:24:00.003-04:00

I am back home from getting my injection for the R.A. this morning . I was already feeling dragged out and this was before getting this injection that zaps my dna and blood cells! So I'm wondering what it will do to me, being that I already feel awful.

Scoot and I wandered around and drove over to Publix to buy a few food items. I got some delish Mojo Rotissori chicken, fresh off the rotissori spit at the Publix Deli. We drove back home and on the way, stopped to look at and 'talk to' 4 beautiful spring-green parrots! This is the first time I have seen them this year. Of course I 'heard' them first, because of all the squawking they do,lol!

After we drove home, I parked Scoot and put the charger on him. I then took care of groceries and made my lunch of chicken, crackers and cheese, a banana, and two oreo sugar-free cookies.

I'm feeling sleepy right about now, so I expect I'll be taking a long nap shortly! Ahhh, sweet sleep.

The Summerfest 12 weeks of Summer Challenges in the greatest on-line Karaoke site on the internet http://www.singsnap.com/ is coming up too soon.

It starts at 12:01a.m. Thursday night ( which is Friday morning ) and runs through 24 hours. It will be exciting to find out just what this week's challenge will be ! I hope I can stay in the game ~ I took the challenge, and I'll b e soooo dis-appointed at myself if I mess up and miss just one week! I hope I'm up to it. I'll most likely sing anyway whether I'm feeling sick, or not.

So that's it for this time ~

Week Two SingSnap Summerfest Challenges

2010-06-26T19:15:00.002-04:00

I was really busy yesterday, getting ready for my cam appearance, singing "How Could An Angel Break My Heart" by Toni Braxton. The other song by Toni that I was going to try was "Unbreak My Heart" I decided to go with the first one, as I already was familiar with the different parts of the song.

In SingSnap, http://www.singsnap.com we are being challenged for 12 weeks of summer fun ( Summerfest) Each Friday, the staff cooks up a new challenge for us ! We are all in great anticipation as to just what the "next challenge" will consist of!

This weeks challenge,(yesterday) was to have all the ones who took the challenge, between 13-49 group sing one song from the "Old Souls" era. My group was "Young At Heart" age 50+ and we were to sing one song from the young people's era! I almost did Lady Gaga! No way! I watched and listened to her videos on YouTube. Good grief ! LOL.

This is just a creative and clever way to keep members singing and not get bored or take off for the whole summer! It's working. The first week we had over 300 take the challenge! This week I believe there were even more. I have to go check, as I have not been computering today!

I took a break and worked at home and went shopping and did one errand for my neighbor....and have been doing some more packing, two boxes of kitchen cupboard dishes, pots, pans , ect.

BP Oil Disaster Ruination UpDate

2010-06-24T15:44:00.001-04:00

http://www.thegovmonitor.com/world_news/united_states/florida-outlines-bp-gulf-oil-spill-response-for-june-24-2010-34292.html

This site from the Florida Governor monitor shows some good maps of the Gulf and where the oil is now and where it may be headed concerning the winds carrying it further east and south.

Stress Stoppers !

2010-06-23T22:19:00.002-04:00

I was sorting through some folders and came across an article I saved from New Woman Magazine, September 1998 ! I wonder if i or anyone can do *all* of these "fastings" but it all depends on how much you want/need to de-stress, I suppose.

1. Noise Fast: Devote at least 20 to 30 minutes each day to do absolutely nothing. Sit and just be. To erase extraeous thoughts, light a candle and focus on the flame.

2. News Fast: Avoid news-papers, TV, or radio- for three days. ( It does not say anything about computers, but I would think this means news on the computer, also!) This will help ward off information overload and negative thoughts.

3. Weekend Fast: Make a list of tedious things you frequently do on weekends and post it on the fridge. Then, "don't" do any of the items-until Monday. ( well what if one is working , and the only time to do these things is on the weekend!?)

4. People Fast: Set aside a block of time a few days each week- say, from when you wake up until noon-and avoid speaking to anyone ( even your cat).

5. Techno Fast: Unplug all plugs-the one on your phone(s), the fax, and shut off e-mail for a set period of time at least once a week.

Well. Number's three and four would be really hard to do, speaking for myself !
What about you? Would this be something you could do and stick with it to get stress out of your lives?

McDonald's and Their Happy Meals!

2010-06-23T13:31:00.006-04:00

While I was drying off from my shower this morning, I heard on the news that a mother is trying to sue McDonald's over their HAPPY MEALS ! Nooooooooooo!

This is a trademark and such a icon of McDonald's , as it goes way back in time! Please don't take the Happy Meals away from the kiddies ( and some adults I know, too, *giggles!* )

True, the lady has a point about the fat laden food, ( they are getting better at less fat) and the enticement of the meals for kiddies.
But, look at it this way: It makes your kids Happy, right? Oh, I don't mean it's okay to take the kiddies to McDonald's every single day/night, but once a week or twice a month does not hurt anyone.

In fact, it can be a "reward" for the kiddies for 'eating properly at home!' Or taking them out to McDonald's can be a treat if they did'nt holler or complain ALL week about homework or chores around the home.

Pssst: Hey kids ! Here's a secret ~ Help your parents do things , the ones you are able to do, and be nice about it! They might surprise you with a reward!

Bottom line: Keep McDonald's Happy Meals, and just let it be!
Complete story here: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/06/23/health/main6608981.shtml?tag=stack

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL THE DAD'S OUT THERE!

2010-06-20T07:07:00.003-04:00

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all you Dad's out there ! I hope it's a day like you want it to be .