Trans Fat...look for it!

I'm so thankful today was a better day.  I accomplished a few things this morning and went to a Santa's workshop in the afternoon.  When I got home D had the tree out for me and actually put it together.  Now during the week I will work on spreading out the branches like I like them and add some lights.  

I'm trying everything I can to get my arm better.  I decided to try my tens unit I used to use on my back before the IPG was implanted.  It really feels good.  Wish I could sleep with it on!

The main reason of my post tonight is to share with you how good my home air popped popcorn turned out.  I used 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and the serving size listed on bag.( 3 tablespoons ).   I can't tell you the last time I popped popcorn on the stove.  What made me do it today you ask?  I admit I have an addiction to popcorn.  Pretty much every night I have a mini bag of the microwave type.  No butter, just the plain.  3 points on WW's.  What better snack.  Quick, easy and full of fiber.  

A week ago I suddenly had a problem with the microwave type.  I was watching Dr Oz and  he was educating his audience about trans fat.  Even though many food products promote  on the front of the label "no trans fat" when you turn it over and read the ingredients you read things like "adds a dietarily insignificant amount of trans fat per serving" This is an example of Jolly Time 100 Calorie Healthy Pop.  On the front of the box it says, "0g TRANS FAT in bold letters.  I stopped by the store on the way home from the work shop to see if I could find some other popcorn without any secret ingredients I didn't want included.  Dr. Oz noted that major health organizations have concluded that there is no safe amount of trans fat.  Listing a lot of the foods it is still found in today microwave popcorn was one he noted.  It worried me because I eat it regularly so even if it's a little it's a lot bad.  

The FDA has made a preliminary recommendation that to eliminate artificial trans fat from processed foods.  He feels this move will most likely save thousands of Americans lives from heart disease, the number one killer of both men and women.  This really made me want to be more aware.  I started reading all my labels in the pantry.  Turns out I could NOT find a popcorn that was safe to buy.  I bought a bag of popcorn kernels to pop at home.  It turned out delicious!  I'll never want microwave again.  I really thought it would be a pain to pop it.  It took 4 minutes and the coconut oil gave it such a great flavor.  I added a tiny bit of salt.  I can't say enough how flavorful it was.  I dirtied a pot but other than that it was not mess or problem at all.

So..FYI be aware of your labels friends.  Take the time to read ingredients.  Trans fat leads to all kinds of problems.  I don't know about you, but I surely don't need any additional.  If you'd like to read more about the subject go to Dr. Oz's home page and type trans fat in the search bar.  

I keep resetting my walking goal over and over.  I'd meet the time limit I set and some of the time I haven't walked in the entire period.  This time I made it!  Tomorrow was my dead line ( I wasn't even aware of that ) When I walk I usually walk a mile or a little over.  I've been trying to get to two for some time.  So hurray for me!  I made it today!

That's why I never give up H.O.P.E.

Theresa

A time for reflection

It's been an absolute amazing week.  Despite my aches and complaints D and I have throughly enjoyed this beach trip.  We're at a new place this time.  It's always nerve racking when you go to a new place you've never been until you see for yourself.  I'm a review reader, but you can't always believe everything you read.  Good or bad.

We had a safe trip here.  After checking in we got our grocery shopping done.  How convenient, a Sam's and a Wal Mart right next to each other just like at home.  It never fails, we over buy or under buy scared we'll have to much and have to find room to tote it home.

Not this time.  Perfect planning my friends.  Over supper we agreed that we shopped perfectly.  We have breakfast and lunch for tomorrow which is exactly what we need.

There is a beautiful view of the bay here.  Right on the docks a lovely place for grilling outside.  We had steaks on Tuesday night.  Nothing like cooking outdoors and watching the sunset.  Last night we went out to dinner and had another fabulous view while enjoying supper.  There were ducks everywhere right outside the window of our table.  We also enjoyed watching the sun set again for a second night.

We had a safe trip here.  After checking in we got our grocery shopping done.  How convenient, a Sam's and a Wal Mart right next to each other just like at home.  It never fails, we over buy or under buy scared we'll have to much and have to find room to tote it home.

Not this time.  Perfect planning my friends.  Over supper we agreed that we shopped perfectly.  We have breakfast and lunch for tomorrow which is exactly what we need.

D grilling supper

Sunset at resort

There is a beautiful view of the bay here.  Right on the docks a lovely place for grilling outside.  We had steaks on Tuesday night.  Nothing like cooking outdoors and watching the sunset.  Last night we went out to dinner and had another fabulous view while enjoying supper.  There were ducks everywhere right outside the window of our table.  We also enjoyed watching the sun set again for a second night.

Our normal little ritual is to hit the beach around 9-9:30.  Around 1-1:30 we come back and have lunch then back around 3.  After that we just stay based on our evening plans or what our stomachs decide for us.  Mainly me, I have to pack several small healthy snacks to make it through the morning and the afternoon.  D can go all day with a hearty breakfast.  Today we were especially enjoying the evening and ended up staying until sunset.  With a decent crowd during the day, leaving with just a hand full of people left.   3 days in row enjoying daylight end.   Now we could watch the sunset at home.  I can't tell you the last time we just stopped and watched the sun go down together.  

To the East @ 5:50

To the West @ 5:50, amazing difference

I've done well with my eating choices.  I really don't like saying "my diet" because I really mean eating right again.  My WW's tracker has been nagging me since Wednesday to enter in my weight.  Ha, I left the scale at home.  It will have to wait.  I know I've done ok though.  On Tuesday I was splurging since it was the end of the WW's week for me and I had plenty bonus points and all my activity points left.   It's been a relaxing busy so for me it reduces my temptations. 

I've walked 5 days in a row on the beach and plan to make it tomorrow morning also.  I wish I could do it in the morning at home.  Not as painful and I like that it's over and done. This couldn't be possible without my stimulator.   D has walked with me every other day.  Nothing like having your spouse sweat it out with you!  I had to be mindful of not swinging my left arm back and forth.  Except for swimming I never manage any type of exercise 5 days in a row.  
Another reason I'm feeling positive about step on the scale when I return home. 
They actually have a heated pool here but we've spent 85% of our time at the beach. 

On my mornings walks alone I've had a lot of time for reflection and soul searching.  There are many things going on in my life right now and my choices are crucial.  In the beauty of walking the beach, things just don't seem quite so bad.  Somethings need to be dealt with and some need to just be let go....and let GOD.  

They really aren't concerned they are in your way!

I've had a couple of good days with my arm and a couple of not so good.   I've also had a really bad one that went into the night.  It kept me awake most of it.  A sharp dull pain deep in my elbow.   Bursitis stinks!  Thank goodness it finally calmed down.  Beats me what caused it to "flare" the way it did.  I've followed all my OT's instructions, including stretches and wearing both braces at all possible times.  ( I have pictures to prove it )  I don't think I'm going back next Tuesday with my arm any better, but hopefully with a better attitude.   One can only deal with so much.  

4:30 today

D and I went to the outlet mall in Destin yesterday.  He had several things on his shopping list.  He got them all but one I might add.  I met a lady in one of the shops that asked about my braces.  She had a feeling because she'd been there, done that.  After 3 years she had surgery to repair and she said she was so glad she did.  It was simple and easy and changed her life.  Oh, to hear those words.  What I longed the outcome of my back surgery to be.  Again with my stimulator surgery.  Hearing her say that made my stomach churn because I pray that's not what my injury comes down to.  I have a bad taste in my mouth for any kind of surgery.  

I've had fun writing notes to my grandkids, friends and husband in the sand.  I have a friend really having a hard time right now.  I know the place she is in.  It's no fun.  When I was really struggling last year she text me almost every other day.  Just hello, or I'm here.  It meant so much and some time I couldn't even respond.  One day she just told me, "I'm coming over there."  "What do you want for lunch?"  Despite my saying "I'm not up to it"  She came.  It's time for me to do the same.  I don't like what I'm hearing, or not hearing back.  However, I did get a response from my picture and for that I felt hopeful. 

I sure miss my babies 

For D, right after I took first one I caught wave coming on the second

 

I hope this made her smile

All good things must come to an end.  I really want to just stay here.  With little to do and no stress at all I have felt better than I have in some time.  My husband would probably not agree but he doesn't understand "pain" vs "PAIN"  lol  God Bless him.   We have a lot to look forward to when returning home.  My grandson's birthday party is coming up.  Thanksgiving, our Anniversary, D's bd, my Moms 70th bd, D's moms bd, Christmas and then.......grandchild number 3.  That dear readers, is the best wait of all.  A new life begins.  A new chapter for Nonna.  My daughter and her husband love their son so much.  I'm just so excited for my daughter to have a daughter of her own.  I think maybe just maybe when she arrives I will try and stop referring to A and P as my "babies".

 I used to tell her when she was little that when she grew up and had children I hope she had a little girl who was just like her.   Now you can take that how you want it.  It was meant "both" ways!  I love both my children the same.  No doubt.  But, a mothers love for her daughter is just different.  Especially when she only has one.  A bond no one can break or come between.  Her and I have been through a lot together.  Things that would surprise you.  I'll just say we both have endured an equal hardship that cuts deep.  We're better mothers, daughters and spouses because we survived.  It's not how I want the bond with her daughter to form but it is the "kind" of bond I want them to have.  

Have FAITH, have HOPE (hold on pain ends),
Theresa

Hold On Pain Ends <3

Beautiful as usual

I won't quit

I won't quit exercising even though it is pure torture for me most times.
I won't quit believing I'm going to feel better someday.
I won't quit trying to get rid of these last few pounds that just won't go away.
I won't ignore what my doctors ask me to do even thought I don't want to do it. 

My day started feeling pain in every area of my body when I got out of bed this morning.  It was raining and the humidity was high.  I try to make any appointments I have later morning because until my pain medicine kicks in you just don't want to be around me.  I was awake much earlier than I needed to be.  Darn, why can't I sleep until the alarm goes off?  I stopped fighting it and slowly moved into the kitchen for that first cup of water and went to draw my deep hot bath that helps me get moving.  I was dressed and ready at 8 am and my appointment wasn't until 11.  I have this dilemma often that i try and hold out on taking my pain medicine so it will last until I can do what I need to do.  Especially when I will be out and it will be a long day with multiple stops.  

I watched some of the news and checked  email.  Paid a couple of bills, had breakfast followed by all medications.  By the time I made it to see my rheumatologist I was feeling comfortable.  I have a favorite stimulator program right now.  I also delay turning that on sometime too because at some point durning the late evening I just have to shut if off.  I want it to help when I need it most.  The wait was short.   After check in and after I saw the medical assistant he was right in to see me.  He is however, hard to get an appointment with.  I always schedule on the way out. 

I love this man.  I've been seeing him since 2006.  He is such a good listener and is very patient with you.  He wanted to know everything thats been going on since he last saw me.
(Nov '12)  I missed an appointment at the end of March.  We talked about the revision surgery and the new battery.  Of course his main concern was how my wrist, elbows and knees are doing.  While we are talking he is rubbing/pinching in certain areas.  Ouch..Ouch. Ouch. it hurts everywhere.  When I asked why it hurts like that in those areas, not the ones I mentioned, he said it was most likely my fibromyalgia.  Wait a minute, when did we decide I had fibromyalgia?  I know we'd discussed the possibility on many occasions.  As far back as my first visit.  I didn't have all the check points to diagnose it then.  He explained to me that it can take years to diagnose fibromyalgia because so many of the symptoms are also symptoms of other things too.  I remember all that, but I've always had myself convinced that is not what was causing all my "aches and pains" elsewhere.  I believed they all stemmed from the nerve damage in my back.  I was kind of in a daze while thinking when did say for sure you think I have this?

Today all the areas he checked hurt.  We talked about how the stretches helped my wrists.  I wanted to know why he thought my elbows were still giving me so much trouble?  It's the outside edge. When he put pressure the right way and I almost elbowed him.  The muscle leading to that tendon is very sore too.  The left side hurts worse I told him.  He said there wasn't as much inflammation on the right.  He really thought the best option was to try some physical therapy first.  If that doesn't help he wants to a MRI on both.  I knew sooner or later have to go back to PT again but never thought it would be for my elbows.  Seriously? Something as simple as holding Dallas' pooper scooper can bring me to tears.  He asked me to make sure any time I hold something to hold it with my palm up.  The pain comes from the inflammation and degeneration of the common extensor tendon, one of the tendons of the elbow.   Tendon tears can be the cause of chronic forms of Tennis elbow.  The fancy name Lateral epicondylitis.   From what I read rest should have it better in a couple of weeks so it has definitely become chronic. 

Shows the muscle and tendon and where it hurts!

This physical therapy session will be at the previous establishment I was going to so I am pleased about that.  It was just around the corner from where we used to live but now it will be a trip across town.  He mentioned something about rubbing and needles?  That sounds painful.  He said he wouldn't sugar coat it.  It will be.  Hopefully it will be worth it in the end.  I know plenty of people have dealt with it.  I'm just on a pity party right now with adding another issue.  As my friend says, "Girl, you need a tissue for your issues?"  Yes I do, thank you!

After he gave me all my marching papers I went down a floor to get my flu shot. First I had to stop off to check out and schedule an appointment for 6 months.  As I waited I looked at the papers in my hand.  Diagnoses this visit....first on the list FIBROMYALGIA ugh I hate that word.  It's almost like I had to see him put that down to believe he really said it.  I notice farther down listed as previous diagnoses....that same ugly word.  I guess he had been trying to tell me.  I just wasn't hearing him.   

 I waited longer to get my flu shot than I did to see the doctor.  I believe everyone there with a doctor appointment was getting their flu shot too.  I'm glad its done, but this time went a little different than usual.  Within a short time I started itching at the injection area.  It continued to get worse and soon I felt a bump coming up.  I really wasn't able to look at it until several hours later. 

right after I got home around 3:15

From there I went to meet my daughter, son in law, P and his maw maw for the new babies ultra sound.  It went well.  It took awhile because at this particular ultra sound they take a lot of measurements and look at a lot of things.  P was enthusiastic at first.  Full of questions.  Smart questions.  I can't remembered quite how he asked but it got his big brain to thinking and he wanted to know if his mommy was in a tummy one time?  It was so cute how he asked.  His daddy explained to him mommy was in Nonna's tummy when she was a baby.  I told him I could tell him all about it and show him pictures.  I started thinking and I can remember it all so clearly.  Somethings just don't erase from your mind.

P watching closely while sitting with Maw Maw

My son in law hoping to catch a glimpse of the sex

After the ultra sound was over I hung around with B to see her doctor.  My son in law, P and maw maw went ahead and left instead of waiting around longer.  It had been a long time for P.  He was so good and patient.  We had a bit of a wait to see her doctor.  When she was done there she wanted FOOD.  Poor girl was hungry.  She didn't want to put a lot of food in her stomach so she'd only had yogurt.  It was 3pm by this time.  She had a subway sandwich and we left.  

I was pretty tired myself when I made it in and my arm was driving me nuts.  In the past I've only had soreness never itching or swelling.  If I hadn't had the shot in that exact spot I'd have sworn it was a hive breaking out.  I changed into something comfortable and saw what I was feeling.  A big knot.   Of course you know I have a picture to show you!  I'm still glad I had one.  I haven't missed since 2000.  In 1999 I had a terrible case of the flu that kept me down for two weeks.  I swore I would get one every year after that.  I have and I've never had the flu again.  Knock Knock.

Around 5 and yes it's bigger!

Last but not least.  It's Tuesday.  Weigh in day.   I'll start with my measurements being exactly the same.  Weight- half a pound down.  I'm not thrilled about it because during several weeks I've hit this weight only to have it be up on weigh in day.  I believe it is just a fluke it happened on the right day today.

Well that's enough for tonight.  You got an earful yesterday.  Enough is enough.   Tomorrow is a new day.  Everyone has something to face as they wake and face the day.  We're never alone.  

Living with H.O.P.E.
Theresa

7 weeks counting calories

I guess I did jinx myself.  Here I am at 136.5.   A half inch in waist, but no where else. Only a pound less from a week ago.  I really have to stop weighing everyday.  Just a big disappointment that three days in a row your two pounds less and weigh in "for real" and it suddenly goes up.  Slow I'm telling you.  3 pounds in 7 weeks.    I'll keep hanging in there. 

I'm watching the final 6 tonight on AGT.  I can't wait to see you wins tomorrow night.  I have two favorites.  While watching I see commercial for WW's and they are offering no sign up fee again.  Hum...what should I do?

I thought I'd share this indulgent treat I've been having when I have a sweet tooth.  I always have plenty of fruit around.  I love it.  The only difference right now is I am paying attention to how much I am eating each day.  My favorite combination is strawberries, blueberries and pineapple.  1/4 cup of each.  Unsweetened Almond milk. (just enough to cover the bottom, around 1/4 a cup)  I use half a stevia to sweeten up.   Only because the almond milk is unsweetened. Then I add 30 semi sweet chocolate chips and mix all together.  It is delicious!  Really kills a craving for something sweet.  I've used raspberries in place of the strawberries.  They taste great too.  It usually averages out to about 130 calories.

So saddened that there has been another mass shooting.  What will it take to bring this madness to a stop?  People have to continue to fight for more controlled gun laws.  This man was having major problems and people all around him knew it.  Yet he still was able to own the type of weapon he used to murder innocent people.  There has been 6 mass shootings in the past 9 months and at least 20 during Obama's presidency.   I really thought after 20 children were killed in Newtown, Conn we would start to see a change.  Something is wrong here.  Just saying!

My trial has ended with the Galaxy S4.  It's a great phone, just not for me.  It took me around 24 hours to get used to my tiny screen on my iphone again.  Everything is so much smaller.  However, everything is so much simpler too.  I plan on selling it and buying myself the new iphone with the cash.  

The other trial I have myself involved in started yesterday.  It runs for 21 days.  I had to install an application on my phone to document some things about television programs I watch durning prime time.  It's very simple, easy and not time consuming at all.  Definitely worth 100 bucks!  If you forget, it even reminds you!

The pool is still staying nice and warm.  It was 96 when I swam this afternoon.  I can't tell you how much I enjoy being able to get my exercise this way.  It takes a pain pill an hour before and a lot of stretching and cream on my back when I'm done, but it is so worth it.  Oh yes, and my stimulator cranked up to HIGH!  It beats hurting entire through the entire exercise whatever that might be.  Riding the recumbent bike or walking.  At least in the pool the pain comes later so I am able to get some good exercise in while I am in the water. 

P taking care of A's baby :-)
He's going to be a helping big brother!

A visit everyday.  P was fascinated. 

Enjoy the rest of your week.  
Full of H.O.P.E.
Theresa

CHOICES

If you want to be rich...GIVE

IF you want to be poor...GRASP

If you want abundance...SCATTER

If you want to be needy...HOARD!

John Lawrence

It's that time again!

On Oct 12th of last year I had a guest post by my daughter.  She had participated in the Alumni week end with Tiger Band.  She wrote a post about her experience being with the band again. Unwilling at first but enjoyed it in the end.(writing) Today was a great day.  It was that week end again and I was able to go this time.  D and I drove to LSU this morning and meet up with my son in law and grandson.  

We were able to sit on the field to watch and listen while the alumni practiced alone.  They sounded great!  My daughter told us she hadn't played the piccolo since lasts year alumni game.  When they moved on to practicing with the rest of Tiger Band we went up stairs to watch.  It was just like old times when we went every home game to watch them practice.  It doesn't matter how many times you hear them march on the field and play it gives you goose bumps. 

I was so happy to be there to see my grandson be out at LSU for the first time and see his mommy march with the "Big Band"  He was a little nervous at first.  It was so loud and we were up high on the observation deck. At first I don't think he knew what to do with himself.  All and all I think he enjoyed it after all. 

After rehearsal was over we went down to see mom for a little bit and take a few pictures.  Then P left with Poppa and I while mom and dad stayed around to tailgate and have fun at the game. 

That amount of time was just enough for me. I had kind of stumbled coming in the door and jarred my self trying not to fall.  That along with climbing the stair case did me in.  When we got home we had lunch then P asked to watch a movie.  Guess what Nonna did?  Lay down and rest while he was watching the movie.  It was just what I needed to be able to go some more.  

P's Maw Maw came to get him later in the day to go to his cousin's birthday party.  I decided to try and get up enough strength to go exercise in the pool.  The solar blanket is working great.  It was only in the 80's today and the water was 96 and comfortable.  As hard as it was I felt better when I was done. 

I'll be around Tuesday for weight in.  I don't want to jinx myself but if nothing changes from weighing this am I'll be a happy camper.  See you around on Tuesday :-)

One more thing.  I noticed the strangest thing happened.  I have a post missing.  The one I typed on my sons birthday.  It is so strange how it just wasn't there anymore when I signed in to blog.  Very strange...Not sure I can go back and type the same thing over again.  May have to wait until it is his birthday again.  

Full of H.O.P.E.

Theresa

I need a break!

From what you might ask?  From this flare up that started the day after the 4th of July.  That particular week end was terrible.  We had the threat of rain or rain everyday until the week end passed.   The barometric pressure highly determines my day.   My husband was off from Thursday until Monday and all of this time with him home I felt like doing absolutely nothing.
I scared him at one point when I let it get to me and went on one of my "feel sorry for me" binges.  Why me?  Why can't I feel normal just one day?  Please...just one.   I want to remember what it feels like.  I told him I couldn't take it any more and he completely took it wrong.  I meant I couldn't take pretending like I'm fine and I've learned to deal with it.  

I have learned to deal with it.  A long time ago.  I also learned that if you can't just let go and stop pretending sometime you'll go nuts.  If you go nuts your doctor will put you on medication.  In my case, increase my medication.  I had a mad fit, a good cry, 2 pain pills and crawled in bed and found something funny to watch.  I tried not to feel guilty about being in bed or lashing out.  By the time the program was over, I felt the "edge" reduced and not so sad and angry any longer.

Why haven't I written?  I really have no excuse.  Well, maybe the one I use last time about the program I'm watching.  Now on season 6 episode 9 and I'm going to really be sad when I'm done.  I have one season left after this one.  Ok, so back to not writing,  A dear friend text last week wondering and I quote, "Ok enough already! I keep checking your blog everyday for an update :-(  I apologized and filled her in that I was having a rough time and figured I'd just complain.  She said that was what she was thinking.  Either I was doing really good or really bad.  None the less knowing she was thinking about me helped.   Then there was the text at the end of the week asking, "Is my page not reloading or have you not posted since June 27th?"  Your page is reloading fine.  I have no real excuse.  I will get past this flare up.  Then I have the friend who checked in and said, "Go ahead and complain, we're listening:-)"

You see my readers, I have the best friends in the world.  They all still want to hear from me good or bad.  That is one of the many things that give me strength to keep fighting and not giving up and crawl in bed to quit the fight.  Trust me, I want to do it on many days.  Especially these last 4.

4th of July Good food and great friends

I remember last summer at the hottest point, humidity high with chances of rain all the time making it tough.  I told myself it was worse than winter.  In the winter I always say its worse in the summer.  I've been riding my bike and swimming.  That's about it.  It's been a couple of weeks or longer since I've had a good walk.  Your going to be hearing from me regularly again because after this week end I will start the Weight Watchers program over.  Yes readers that 17 pounds you cheered me through last year is BACK ON.  All but 6 of them.  I don't know what I'm waiting for?   I guess to hit the 17 mark back so it can be even harder.  
Any one want to join me?

Along with the added pain on top of the chronic "failed back surgery syndrome" my hives are determined to make me miserable.  I know, give it up.  They aren't going away.  I'm not giving up hope that the will some day.  I guess they like showing up to visit when my back is flared up.  This isn't the best pictures but it gives you an idea starting in block one in the am
and how it gets larger and larger as the day goes on.  I can feel them before they even expose themself.

last week

Monday

I'm getting tired and falling a sleep while trying to finish this.  I haven't slept the last few nights with some particular nasty hives, no relief from this back flare up and kkkkkkkkka cut on my pinky that is healing so slowkkkkkkkkkkkk. ( That's what you get when your drifting off and won't give up.  I started @ 11:00 and it's now 2 am.  I wake up and my finger has typed its self!)   I'll be back to finish tomorrow after my therapy session.

I'm back.  It's Tuesday afternoon and I should be able to stay awake to finish lol.  I've returned from seeing my therapist and stopping at a few stores so I need a rest.  I'm not getting up until I'm done here!

This week end we have some friends coming from out of town for the week end.  I'm trying to slowly each day get a few things done around here that I've put off because of the way I've been feeling.  The gentleman is a longtime college friend of my husbands.  They go way back and he has been coming to stay for the week end to visit long before I was in the picture.  I started in the guest room.  I have a habit of putting things in there until I "feel like"
taking care of them if I'm having a bad day.  I finally got a new bed set and found a topper for the current curtains that match new comforter.  I love when things like that work out.  

My nephew is in town visiting his dad, stepmom and siblings this week.  He lives out of state and its a rare occasion if we get to see him when he is here. (my immediate family)  He is 16 now and I'm not sure he was a teenager last time we saw him.  My sister in law asked about them all coming Sunday so he could see us and of course us see him.  I'm really excited about it.  I'm anxious about the busy week end and how I will feel by Monday.  I'll make it but know it will take some recouping after.  

The last time they came (fathers day)  we had such a great time.  It was so hot outside but we didn't let it stop us.  My husband grilled and he put up a tent topper to provide some shade.  As of yesterday we now have a patio cover AND a fan under there so it will be much cooler this visit.  

My regret is that my granddaughter can't be here.  My son met with her mom last week and Thursday he will see his daughter for the first time since Christmas day.  I'm so excited for him and A.  I hope it all goes well for all three of them.  He has taken so many steps forward and this one will surely encourage more of them.  It will take some time before her mom is ready for A to spend alone time with her daddy so it is not an option to have both here on Sunday to see my nephew and family.   I'd really like my son to be here.  Being with family is so good for him and my brother and his wife were there for him during some of his "bad" days.  They really enjoyed seeing him doing so great last time they were here.  As well as my mom.  Unfortunately if one comes the other can't.  Not the end of the world, I know.  Every thing takes time.  

It just always seems when A is here nothing is going on.  My daughter always does her best to get here with P so she can see some of her family here.  It's just fell like that recently that when family is here she isn't .  A hasn't seen my mom or my brothers family in a very long time.  I'd love for her to be able to participate in the fun we will have.  She loves the pool now and is very comfortable.   Next month is her birthday.  She's so excited about that.  I can't believe her and P both will soon be 4 years old.  I also can't believe I'll have another grandchild soon and P will be a "big brother".

very involved with "Daniel" 

girl loves to pose :-)

I know I already promised to write more.  I definitely will.  I have so much to share but don't want to bore all in one post.  Honestly I can't sit and type that long anyway.  I'm starting my diet back on Monday too.  You guys are my inspiration and knowing I have to post my weight up there every Monday holds me accountable.  Some may be short but I'll be back.

I hope all my pain friends who stay in touch with me are feeling some relief right now.   Your emails, posts and comments always encourage me to stay strong.  

Filled with H.O.P.E. (hold on pain ends)
Theresa

I'm guilty

I admit I have no good reason for not writing in over a week.  I have a reason, just not a good one.  I've got myself addicted to a television program I can't stop watching.  In the evenings I spend time in the pool.  Watering every day now. With the heat here in LA and no rain, our plants and herbs will not survive without it.  By the time I come in from outside and fix dinner,  I'm anxious to watch the next episode of this program.  After that I convince myself tomorrow night I'm not watching and I'm going to post on my blog!  I've been reading a little of a great book each night also so by then I'm getting sleepy.

A couple of weeks ago in the wee hours of the morning when I couldn't sleep I was channel surfing for something to watch on TV.  I stopped on "The Closer".  I'd never seen before and this particular episode was a rerun of the SERIES Finale.  Two hour special of course.  I fell for the main characters personality.  It's a crime drama but so funny at times.  The entire cast is full of great actors.  I was shocked to discover when I looked it up being I'd never heard of it before that it ran for 7 seasons! I decided to go back and watch 1st one to see if it was good as the first. From then on I've been hooked.  I'm on season 3 episode 5.  Check it out, you won't regret it.

Last Sunday I baked a whole chicken that turned out so awesome.
My husband said, " it's remarkable". It was so tender and juicy.
I can take partial credit but not entirely.  I don't remember the show but it was a contest between two chefs on to brine or not brine.  The chef that didn't brine stuffed inside and under the skin.  I've baked a lot of whole chickens before and put seasonings inside and seasoned outside but not this particular combination.  It's amazing what a few fresh herbs will turn out.

I rubbed entire chicken with kosher salt.  Stuffed inside lemon wedge, fresh rosemary (whole sprigs), and quartered onions. Under the skin I stuffed with lemon slices, fresh basil leaves and rosemary chopped.  I then cut another lemon into slices and laid around pan with onions.  I added a little chicken broth to keep the onions and lemons from sticking to pain and to braise the chicken during cooking.  425 for hour and half. (5 pd ) It is the juiciest chicken I've ever eaten. It literally melts in your mouth.  Matter of fact, I have another in the oven as I type. This time I added mint leaves to the combination of seasonings.  Can't wait to see what difference they make. 

It's time to hook up with Mr. R again.  Most of my programs have moved around again.  I have two out of 9 I'm using.  Everything else has moved to my stomach and these two are working their way there also.  My granddaughter is coming tomorrow to visit a few days so it will wait until she goes back home.  

I've went to the walking path to walk a few times.  It's the hardest out of the three things I try to do for exercise.  I sweat (excuse the pun) it out but it's really hard.  I'm so glad when I get it done though.  Swimming is the easiest but I'm aways so sore and hurting after because I don't realize that I continue to over do it each time. 

My grandson's last tee ball game was Monday evening.  He put on a show for us.  He is so stinking funny some time.  

proud of his little trophy 

in the dug out

You may recall in a previous post (one before last) I posted a couple of pictures of us eating out with A at a Mexican restaurant.  When we returned home we remembered we'd never checked the mail that day.  In it was a small bubble manila envelope with a strange return address that we didn't recognize. Addressed to both my husband and I both.  It said "open together" 

And so we did.  It was a puzzle.  We started putting together and it took a bit to figure out the message but right away I had clues and guesses.  Those beautiful eyes on P stood out right away on a piece of the puzzle.  Then next I come across two pieces that make a bow tie!  P and my daughter were both in a wedding back in May so I thought maybe it was a puzzle of him in his tux.  Then I was guessing a puzzle made from professional picture taken at Easter.  Maybe one she didn't show me yet.  

Here is Poppa and A working while I step back and take a picture.
I'm so glad I did that.  Just wish I had one with me in it.  So in the end when all together this is what the puzzle told us.

I'm sure you can figure this out.  Right?  Nonna is so happy and excited for P to be a big brother.  Thrilled to know that my daughter and son in law are blessed to have the gift of life given to them once again. This past week she sent out original pictures of this puzzle to family.  I believe next week she'll be ready to share with everyone so until then.  It's a secret! Ok? We're planning to wait and be surprised. Boy or girl?  Now my son in law is not to keen on this idea, but we'll see if he honors B's wish.

I'll try to be back sooner.  I know it won't be before A goes home on Tuesday.  Tonights a walk night.  Pushing myself to do this because the day I quit fighting I loose. 

God is awesome...
Living in H.O.P.E. (hold on pain ends)
Theresa