It is time for a new post. I am posting 3 pictures that a good friend shared on FB. One picture is of a dragonfly and 2 are pictures of owls. I am posting these especially for Carol.
Carol, I have not tried sleepytime tea in a while. I will try it tonight. Thanks.
Lately, I have been sleeping much better and longer. I think my sleep patterns have a lot to do with stress, especially over some property my dad left me that I have to manage long distance. I am making plans to turn it over to my sons in the near future. I don't need it and they would like to have it.
The ceremony last night was wonderful. There was a women's choir group singing a cappella…. beautiful! My FIL had a great time. We had pastries and coffee afterwards in a common room. There was a 94 yr old woman who grew up in the same town as my FIL who joined the festivities. They shared many memories together.
Renee, what a lovely evening for your FIL and you. It is beautiful in older age to see someone you grew up with and share memories. I am speaking from experience.
Did some shopping today. Sis helped actually she did most of it for me. I hate shopping. Needed a purse to tote mons of driugs Needed a suit case. I've told you that TV bores the hell out of me but it has been my significant other for so long. Sis hates most tv so I'll lose that relationship. Now she loves movies. Not sure if our interests are compatible. I guess I'll have to change that. I may come back as a clone of sister. At least she's a happy person. So I hope I'll be a happy clone.
Chloe. Ever watched netflix on an iPad? That will make a good substitute. I can also listen to C2c. That will sub for TV. She now likes football if it is one of our teams. ... Saints, Seahawks, bronchos my teams also. We are comparable with food. Hope to do more cooking there.
Create tv is also ok with sis. I like it. It's a pbs channel. We will also try to get DA. We both love it.
Carol! You had me laughing so hard when I read what you had to say! It's so good to see you already (at least seemingly) feeling better... (has the nausea let up?).
I hate TV too. I've found, though, that if I can get myself going on a decent series that was good enough to have run a few years, I can get interested enough to get hooked on that though.
I also enjoy a good movie a lot, but the good ones are few and far between the last several years.
I would have to be pretty desperate to watch TV on my Ipad. I have to admit that I am addicted to my big screen during the time I turn it on in the evening (for a while before bed) to watch whatever I've managed to interest myself in for the time being. It is now that French series I mentioned a few days ago.
I hope you keep the comments coming. Your attitude (and you!) are amazing, Carol! You and big sis are on the right path. KEEP MOVING FORWARD! Have a great vacation!
... hope that suitcase you got to lug your meds out west with you serves it's purpose. :)
I've haven't traveled back that way for a long time now. Please take pics and share your view on the cultural (and food!) differences. Ha... better take you spices with you, too. The food there will taste bland compared to your usual preferences. Watch and learn! Then share.
... oh, and PS I have my IPad in a case that is also a keyboard. I don't like typing on a touch screen. I really love the case... got it at the same time I purchased the IPad from ATT. A very compact, powerful little setup... ready for travel.
I have to admit I love TV. The years I was single, I seldom watched TV - did not have cable. When I was married before I did not watch much TV.. I always had so much reading to do related to work and school. When I was not reading I was sewing. I cannot watch TV for longer than about 2-3 hours at a time. I get very restless. I like my big screen TV too. Would not like a movie on a little screen.
I'll make every effort to keep in touch I'll have my sisters wifi which should be more reliable. My ligule wifi is doing better. Or should I say wife. I could use a good wife also.
Patriots play bronchos tomorrow. I'll be torn. Much of my family ate bronchos fans. They live in co. Any other time I pull for the Patriots. I'll certainly be torn next week when Seahawks play the Saints. Big sis is a Seahawks fan. She also likes the Saints. She said it was a no lose for her. Lsu beat Texas a& m. Yeehaw. Diner was good but it took so long that my stomach started hurting. From hunger. Had shrimp Rockafellow. Don't like oysters so they sub shrimp for me. Frien drove sis's rental car to the rest. When we went to leave we couldn't fiind the key we panicked. It is one of those keys that retracts The friend had to show us. Neither sis nor I are very technically up to date on new gadgets. One finger typing is very slow. Dang me.
Chloe, make the cold go away. Let's all concentrate. EWe can leave the snow for Rick though. Sis said her place will be colder inside than my house. I'm back at the house. Camp would be way too cold. Ready for the tropics.
Ha, Carol. The only way I know how to do that is with an electric blanket. I also keep a personal heater sitting right next to me to switch on whenever I 'feel' overly chilled. I hate the 'cold' feeling.
Have you noticed that those of us in the south complain a lot more about the cold than those who have to put up with it on a regular basis? I see people here (that I'm sure are from up north) wearing a short sleeve t-shirt and sometimes even shorts when I'm freezing to death.
I forget exactly where big sis lives. I know the west coast, but I can't remember how far north. Is it Northern California or is it further north? Whichever, it will be colder there. Probably dryer too.
You and sis need to take a trip to Hawaii or someplace close from this side of the U.S... one of these days.
Visualize this: Christmas in Hawaii is usually about 80 degrees. How's that sound? I get warmer just thinking about it (as long as my heater is turned up to the max). :)
When we were discussing the weather yesterday at TM, I realized that between you, me, Blonde, and Jace plus Jan... we have a big chunk of Southern United States covered.
It begins at New Mexico, then Arizona, Texas and Louisiana. Go a little further and we have Tony in Florida. After that, I guess South Carolina with Flatus and Sturgeon... just tracing along the lover line (coast once we reach Texas).
Yeah… I'm with you guys… I'd rather have a keyboard too.
Carol… glad to know you will continue to post here… I'd miss you. And of course I'll be rooting for my Patriots tonight. Did you know that most sports people are predicting that the Seattle Seahawks are the mostly likely Super Bowl champs this year. And thanks for wanting snow for Rick.
Chloe… it's cold as hell here today. It's mostly because of the wind…. very biting.
Everyone I know that moves south from here say that they can't take the cold any longer. I LOVE snow and cooler temps. I hate heat. Guess that means you and I are both in the perfect places.
Rick used to travel to Houston for his job. Says he misses it. He used to go to a place you've mentioned before… The Woodlands.
Renee, it is very cold here too. We have wind which makes it worse. It started snowing last night before we went to bed. Must not have snowed much because it is only covering the ground -not deep snow. We have bad road conditions - snow covering ice. We are very toasty inside.
I feel the heat more since going through M-pause. I tolerate cold better than heat. I can layer clothing and be comfortable. I like the room cool in winter with a little cover over my legs and feet. We turn off furnace at night and sleep under a down comforter. I sleep with a gown on and then wind up shedding it in middle of night - too hot. John sleeps in sweat pants shirt.
Carol, you do well with one finger typing. I do that on my cell - hate it. I liked my previous cell phone best, but there are features of this phone I like.
Chloe, interesting that NM and Arizona are in south too. After living in TX, LA, and NM, I realize what a huge difference there is between the southeast and southwest. It changes somewhere in West TX. The accent and the temp/humidity changes drastically.
Also, in NM with the large number of New Mexicans with hispanic roots, the culture is totally different than any other place I have lived. Anglos are in the minority here. Most people have some hispanic roots. I really like it here because there is such an acceptance of diversity, both racial/cultural and sexual orientation. We have pretty equal numbers of liberals and conservatives. Our previous governor was democrat and out current gov is a republican woman.
Carol, John prefers the house warmer and me cooler. We have thermostat at about 69-70 during daytime and 71-72 in evening. John lives in sweats in winter. He often will have on 2 sweatshirts.
New car technology...forget about the retracting keylike starter tool...
the newest car models either have you press a big button on the dash or turn the ignition w/o using any key (there is no slot for a key...
the secret is that you need a remote fob in your possession, same with opening doors & as long as you have it near you, the locked door will open...
most important you need to have your foot on the brake when you start a car now...one of my friends went to use another's car & you would have thought he was on 'candid camera' trying to figure out how to start the car!...
And since it is a short week & I know Carol you & big sis are preparing to travel...let me say now to everyone, hope you all have a very good Thanksgiving...would seem that we all have many reasons to be thankful...
And good thing you are not traveling to the northeast this week, since it seems there may be stormy conditions on Wednesday heading this way, one of the busiest travel days of the year...
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone here in case some of you are busy these next few days.
We are going to my middle son's house for dinner - here in ABQ. My DIL has family here so it will be a large gathering. We are all bringing something to eat.
I am thankful I don't have to cook thanksgiving dinner this year. It is getting harder for me to turn the dinner out. I will probably work mon, tues and wed since I don't have dinner or house to prepare. Yeeaaa!
Carol, I sure hope you and your sis have a safe and pleasant travel.
Chloe, Coreen, Renee - what are you doing for Thanksgiving. Are you cooking at home or traveling.
I am having both sons and families for dinner tonight. I made green chili, chicken enchiladas. It was quite a job. I chopped up my chicken last night - I used roasted chicken from the grocery. I used corn tortillas rather than flour tortillas. I heated the tortillas first in a skillet and then dredged them in green chili sauce before rolling them up into tortillas. You have to soften corn tortillas to roll them up. I have a spanish rice recipe I have used for years and then will have pinto beans with some melted cheese over them. It is definitely not a low calorie meal.
I do have a little concern. My sis is not real tolerant if I don't do things her way and I don't think she is real empathetic that I had a stroke not long ago. I will talk with her about it. I do want to go but am nervous about being far away from my safe zone.
Carol, I said "I understand" but I am sure I don't understand completely. I have not had a stroke. I do feel that home is my safe zone too. I too would be anxious about being away from home and not being able to get home on my own. That is my worst nightmare - in fact I often have dreams of trying to get home and cannot find my way home for one reason or another. This dream haunts me.
You do understand Jan. "I did talk with sis and I think she is sympathetic. She said her daughter, April will probably be more empathic I will have all her kids for help also. They are great. Haven't seen them in a long time. Chloe what else have you found on Netflix that you think I might like. It will sub for tv. I use tv for an escape. Reading is difficult. I was reading before the strokes iwith little problems.
Jan, that is my recurring dream too, has been for about as long as I can remember... not being able to get home. All kinds of things happen to frustrate my getting home in those dreams: elevators not working, not being able to remember how to get back, losing my cell... actually it's usually my whole purse that I can't find. Often it has been stolen (in those dreams). There's always countless, insurpassable occurrences that keep me from finding my way back.
When you said that you were fearful, Carol, I felt it was all the feeling of a lack of control. I didn't think it was only about the trip.
I haven't had a stroke (yet), but can completely empathize with the turmoil you must be going through. Not completely obviously, but I do think that one thing we have in common are our control issues, and the fact that we don't like to be dependent on others.
It's really hard to put these feelings into words and that's probably one of the main reason they're so hard to deal with. Anything I try to say here (or anywhere else) I realize sounds shallow and over simplified, but you do what you can with what you've got.
You've taken an important step forward by expressing your fears to your sister. Once they're talked about, then there's usually a solution.
It sounds like big sis knows her limitations, but at the same time knows how to handle any situation. Your niece and her kids sound great. If you can just 'let go', and take it one day at a time (baby steps!)then I believe that it will allow you to enjoy this trip. You have to give yourself 'permission' to enjoy it (that's the letting go part) and then sit back and enjoy the ride.
Yes, Jan. I was surprised when you said that you have similar dreams. I've always assumed that they are all about insecurity.
I'm sure that's what you're experiencing every day, Carol. Insecurity. Fear has always been one of the ingredients of my everyday life. I just take caution to lot let it take control. Ever.
I know you have lots of 'faith', Carol. Faith can get you through anything that comes your way.
But at some point I hope you'll not settle for 'getting through', but instead enjoy things just as they 'are'.
You still have complete control, BTW. That person inside your head is always the boss. She just has to speak up and settle for no less than what she/you need to enjoy (feel safe in) your situations as they change each day. You're still powerful. You still have lots of choices. Ha... I still sound like a commercial (for what, I have no idea).
Still, I believe everything I say (or I don't say it). :)
Carol, the only way I can make choice on what to watch on Neflix, is to go Neflix, signin (they'll make suggestions on your home page too) and do some searching and looking around... after which I put about 20 (give or take) things on my stream Que. Then when you go to watch them, you can choose from your que. If you don't like what you chose once you start it, then delete it from your que and go to the next one. Some things do take a while to warm up too though.
As you watch more movies, TV, etc. by downsteaming, Netflix will make more suggestion on what you may like. That's why it's good to rate (when they ask) what you hate as opposed to what you like.
I could make suggestions, but it wouldn't make sense... because I've noticed we have different taste. One thing I never do is try to pick something from Netflix without having it already qued. It's just too confusing, because there's so much... and so much of it I wouldn't like.
Jan… We are going over to Rick's brother's house for Thanksgiving. He LOVES to cook. I will bring over a couple pies (which I buy from the local cafe) and some wine. I don't have time to cook. I'm doing a craft show on Friday and Saturday. We will set up my booth Thanksgiving morning. It's a local show… only a fifteen minute drive away.
Renee, I was surprised when you said Rick had been to The Woodlands. It's about 20 minutes from us, and we go there often. We had brunch there yesterday, as a matter of fact, at the Cheese Cake Factory. Oh, and yumm, they have the once a year holiday pumpkin cheese cake in. It's so good, although my favorite is the plain ol' New York Cheese cake... that and Key lime (which is very tart there).
Carol… it was the weirdest football game I've ever seen. The Patriots were down 24-0 at halftime. They wound up winning with a field goal with only 2 minutes left in the overtime period. Final score: 34-31. The announcers said it was one of the biggest comebacks in football history.
Carol… I think I understand your fear. Even though Rick and both love to travel… I always feel nervous about a trip. It's because I'm out of my comfort zone of home. Although I'm sure I don't understand completely either. Glad you were able to communicate with you sister.
Jan… I have a dream where I'm at a craft show… I leave my booth to talk to someone and I can't find my booth again. But I've never had the one where I can't find my way home.
Dreams are not always what the obvious seems to be.
As I read back in my dream journal, my dreams are not always trying to get home - usually just trying to get to a certain place. Sometimes it is trying to get back to a place I have been or sometimes trying to find someone or some thing. Sometimes, I am trying to find my purse and cannot find it.
We have a cheesecake factory here. I have never been. I am not a fan of cheesecake. I am a fan of pie, especially apple pie. I think that originates from the area where I grew up. We never had cheesecake but had pie or cake for dessert. I don't care for pumpkin pie.
I was tearful for a change at the docs she feels this grief and depression is a physiological result of the stroke. She again apologized for not recognizing how the stroke affected me emotionally. She is so cool I don't think any other doc sort of a shrink would even be that concerned how this has affected mr psychologically she spends a lot of time with me and gave me her personal email cell phone etc. she in this mdvip program. You have to pay a nice fee to stay with a doc in this program. You can look up the program online. She referred me to another doc up in the Seattle area who is part of the program. The program is an overall health mantainance program. It's not cheap. Some patients had to end up finding other docs. They will also see family or visitors you have. You can get in in a moments notice and have long, iunrusjed. visits. I was there long enough to go thru half a box of Kleenex. I was especially Geary today. Nervous about everything. Oh, I have drugs for that also. Too many drugs. I could open my own pharmacy.
I have my mail order meds going to sisters house. Hope they get there. Their computer program is retarded,
I started a doc sow about Steve jobs early this morning on netflix. Chloe have you ever started watching House of Vards? When you start,you won't quit until you finish. It won awards for best original series. I know you would enjoy it. I started orange is the new black but did finish it. May while in Seattle.
That orange... Is about a middle class woman who. Got in trouble having illegal drugs in her luggage. She didn't know a roommate. Did it. She is in a woman's prison. Made me feel right at home. I don't miss my female inmates. They are. Irritating. Too Whinny. Too much drama. I enjoyed the guys more.
I hope I can put up a post while on vacay. I'm bring my lap top don't think I can do it from iPadprobably won't have any grat pic unless it is from income of their neat grocery stores
It's col and been raining all day same for tomorrow. Maybe some family pics for a post. Can't wait to see the kids. They are cte smart and musically talented.
Carol, your doc sounds wonderful. I am sold on her. So glad you have her.
You sound like you are getting excited about your trip to the Northwest. Don't worry about pictures. Between the rest of us we can put up some new posts. We just want to hear from you.
I'll have to finish Spiral before I start House of Cards, Carol. Once I start something, I become obsessed (which is why I haven't starte that book yet, which is now buried under 'heaven knows what'.
I'm just now starting season 4 on the Spiral series (and loving it!)have not yet checked to see if I can get season 5 online somewhere, as Netflix doesn't have it yet.
Glad you had an in depth conversation with your doc. Jan's right, sounds like she a wonderful doctor. Glad to see the lines of communication are open.
Hope you let us know when your flight is, etc. Looking forward to hearing about your trip.
Jan, We rarely have cheese cake when we go to the Cheese Cake Factory. I like their pasta a lot an Glen likes lots of other things there. I think the thing that draws me there is the delicious sour dough bread they serve us while we're waiting.
Happy Thanksgiven back at ya Chloe. I'm cold. Sis keeps my heat down to prepare me. Almost packed but also pooped. I'm prepared to hibernate in this weather.
Brought Maggie to doggy camp it won't be so fun for her in this weather. It's suppose to clear up the next several days here and we're leaving. Not sure about PNW. You guys up in the NE stay warm.
Vacay is getting close and I'm anxious. It's been so long dice I traveled. I'll keep in touch while gone guys. I would miss communicating with y'all. I'd miss the love I get from you guys. It's neat that I can feel so much love from friend I've never even met. Appreciate it lots. Love you guys much.
Yep, it's supposed to warm up in a couple of days, Carol. Then little Maggie will be able to get outdoors and have some fun. You're going to be a couple of hours earlier there, if I'm remembering correctly. So the time thing will be a little different too.
Traveling is going to be great for you... being around your sister 24/7 is going to be great for you too, and spending the holidays with family is just what you need. I'm so glad you'll be keeping in contact. Will check back in regularly to see how things are going. Love you.
Have a good trip Carol and sister. You will be an hour earlier than we are here in NM. I will be thinking about you all tomorrow. I hope the skies are friendly and you both don't have any long waits.
I just checked the forecast and it looks like you're taking the cold weather with you! It'll be up to 72 by next Tuesday (although it probably won't last for long). It can't come too soon for me, this weather is really rough on the humans and the animals in my neck of the woods.
Seriously, though, you're going to have a wonderful holiday in Washington. Enjoy! Can't wait to hear about it.
To everyone else here (and beyond) Happy, happy, happy everything!!
Made it as far as the airport. Not without incident. Had to tear thru my packed suitcase looking for my gloves. Still nervous. Will be until settled. I need a personal assistant. Or a husband and a wife. We still have a 2 hour wait but I wanted to be here. Sis has been extremely tolerant of me. She deserves an award. There's wifi here. Something to do before reading myNationsl Enquirer. A gift I allow myself when I fly. Keep up your prayers. They are helping.
In Houston. Don't have the stamina to do the necessary walking carrying my laptop. Didn't want to bring it but there are things I can't do wit. IPadie. I need a nap now. We have a ;40. minute wait. We got lunch. I'll ask for assistance when I go back home.
I sat next to a young interesting doctor who is a missionary in Hounduras. He shared info that I can use personally. Synchronicity we had several incidents of that today.
Carol, love the synchronicity that happened on your trip. You were open to these experiences. Would love to hear more about your visit with the Doc missionary from Honduras and other synchronous incidents that happened on your trip.
Traveling isn't easy like it used to be, Carol. We used to to (literally) jump on a plane at the last minute, and off we'd go. Those were the good ol' days... I have many fond memories.
Well, now you can sit back and relax. Let big sis take over. Soak it up!
Everyone... hope you're all soaking up the good life.
I know I'm weird, but I just can't eat turkey anymore. I've just started seeing Thanksgiving as a 'mass' massacre of turkeys. Weird, I know... but it gets hard and harder for me to think about exactly what it is I'm eating.
Seems impossible, though, to become a complete vegetarian. Especially since vegetables have never been a favorite of mine. I do like anything wheat, corn, etc.... love fruit (and unfortunately, sugar)... but cravings and realization makes me aware of the fact that I have no choice but to round out my diet. I love to eat, after all!
Are you spending the day with family? Love to see some pics of that little baby niece of yours. The way you described her at the birthday you went to for her... well, you sound in love.
Chloe, I have never been a big fan of turkey. I do love dressing/stuffing. As long as I can have some dressing (that is what we call it in OKlahoma) and cranberry sauce with it, I am good.
Some days I can be a vegetarian. I love vegetables and fruits. However, I will go several days without meat and then I get a hankerin for a burger or something like that.
I too love sweet stuff. Never had problem leaving salty stuff alone.
Chloe, I have never been a big fan of turkey. I do love dressing/stuffing. As long as I can have some dressing (that is what we call it in OKlahoma) and cranberry sauce with it, I am good.
Some days I can be a vegetarian. I love vegetables and fruits. However, I will go several days without meat and then I get a hankerin for a burger or something like that.
I too love sweet stuff. Never had problem leaving salty stuff alone.
Left side wasn't hurting. It was weaker. Worried that I had another stroke or an extension of old one. Doc thinks it's too late for an extension. I'm better now still frustrated with mail order pharm they are suppose to send my med here but can't get thru to them. Without meds, I'm in a pickle.
If you're meds don't arrive, Carol, you can get some from any pharmacy by calling your doctor and telling her the situation. She'll call the pharmacy and prescribe you enough to hold you over.
There's always a solution. Don't get stressed over these these things and enjoy your vacation.
... ha, this from me, the biggest worrier of all. Always have a backup plan. Line up a local pharmacy and the doc... just in case.
You are so lucky to have a doctor you can contact. That is 'so' unusual with doctors now. Anything happens, you get a message on their recorder to go to emergency or call 911. Big help they are.
So far having a lovely, stress-free morning. DIL sent us home some turkey so we will have this with a baked sweet potato tonight for dinner. Maybe a small fruit smoothie for dessert. Back to eating healthy again.
Your day sounds perfect, Jan. Sweet potatoes are supposed t be one of the most nutritious foods on the face of the earth.
Beautiful day here, Carol... although cold last night and tonight. Supposed to be 80 by Wednesday. I'm hoping. Just can't seem to deal with being cold anymore... it literally drains me (oh lordy, its not even winter yet).
Hope you are having a great time. It must feel good to be under your sis's wing. Enjoy!
Carol, I bet you are happy to get to your Sis's condo. I love Seattle and that area.
It is cold at night here - temps in the 40's and 50's during late morning into night and then 20's early morning. It is sunny all day so feels much warmer than 50's to me. I went out to run some errands early afternoon and wore a t-shirt and long sleeved shirt and was comfortable. I like it cool.
Left camera charger at home and not yet comfortable with phone camera
at BIL's house now just spitting distsce from the Straight of Juan de Fuca. He lives in Port townson Wa its been a challenging vacay. My meds are due any day now but going to sistet's mail and we wont be back thete until end of the week. Hope I survive. Sis will not take me back to check the mail. Sis is reslly anti pharm. No cell signal here just wifi can only text or email. Defiinitely no TV. I might have jumped the gun taking this vacay. Should have made sure I had all the meds I needed first.
Saints play Seahawks today. It will be a tough game. I'll have to go to some sports bar to watch it. No tv around here. It is ashamed that I don't drink. Even if I did ,I couldntp mix all the drugs with alcohol.
Carol, Don't forget with that computer you can go just about anywhere you want. You've got communication... you can get movies and TV series on Amazon or Netflix. On Amazon you may have to pay a small price for individual downloads, but at least they're available.
You will get your meds one way or another, so don't worry about that.
Just hunker in and rest assured that every thing is under control.
... you can relieve the disoriented feeling by looking around for things that are familiar on your computer. Talk to your sister about how your feeling.
Carol, wish I had something to add. I am thinking of you. I think it is difficult to be away from home under ordinary circumstances, so I am sure it is more difficult for you to be away from your comfort and safety zone.
I feel so guilty for being away so long. I can't feel any worse.!
I have not read any other tread other than this one...and will try next week
I am studying for an exam Morrow, but will have some time Tuesday that im off.
I think that your are getting some great advise from the people that love here on the swamp, and what Chloe just said about talking to your computer is correct imo...it will get you used to it again.
Hang in there.! The best way to beat anything...is with humor..and you have that to spare...will be thinking of you....
I had a pretty good fair. Had a great time with my craft friends. I spent part of my profits to buy a beautiful small cherry tapestry loom. Gonna play around with it this winter.
Glad everyone had a good turkey day. Rick and I did too.
Carol… here's wishing your Saints much luck tonight. I'll be rooting for them.
Hey good to see you here Solar...pretty sure that we are all pleased you found your way back...hope you stay for awhile next time...
Carol, hope that you have been able to get more comfortable with your surroundings with big sis & family & that your meds arrived....Is it snowing where you are, the weather reports are showing snow in the NW...
Chloe, this should be the week for me to do any Christmas decorating, it was really cold Thanksgiving weekend, but this week it is better, so we shall see if I get outside at some point...
Jan, I'm with you about heat v. cold...the southern climate is mostly humid & warm to hot, I really don't like humidity or temps over 75...I can deal with the cold, but have no use for snow....Renee, I know you guys like it, so I'll be happy if the snow winds up a few hundred miles north every time...
I missed it a cpl of days ago, due to a lot of studying that had to be done. I feel guilty whenever i miss doing my daily tune ups:
20 min of chi-meditation, then a 10 min stretching energy exercise, a different one for about another 15 min....then the tai-chi routine that lasts for about 20-25 min....still do some weight training, but only twice per week...and on the light side...not heavy and not too long.
Carol, the reason that i wrote this is b/c im going to post about tai-chi if its ok with you?
I will be bugging you about it a lot....
Chloe, I probably won't remember how to do a thread here. If i go and find it, will you post it for me...NO what u mean no?.......
About tai chi Solar, I confess I haven't seriously tried it, but maybe if you hound us, it may sink in...
and believe it or not, recently I bought a nutribullet, which I have been using just about daily as a snack, it is soo easy, not like juicers which were a lot of work, clean up, waste & very loud...
honestly when I get the ingredients together I often think of what you used to tell us about your healthy veggie/fruit drink (the beet, carrot, apple)...
trust me this is a snap, even for me who hates anything about cooking...I put in spinach, strawberries, raspberries & a banana (that's the key) add water & in a minute it is all made into a smoothie, (the color is not so great, but it really tastes good & there's no wasted pulp stuff & clean up is a breeze)...
Would never have thought I'd take the time to do this, but so far, I'm hooked...it's like I have to because I miss not having it!...
That is great.! Im glad that you are doing all of that. My son Tom bought a nutribullet also..he loves it.
I will be hounding you all about tai-chi and acupressure, NO not acupuncture, pay attention, acupressure...im going to suggest a cpl of routines...that are so easy..that anyone can do.
I started a cpl of guys over at the va hospital. One is even in a wheel chair. It is that easy....and there is never a wrong way of doing it....but mark my words.....uh what was i saying? ........................just kidding...once you get started you will be hooked b/c it will give u immediate results.....that and acupressure.....
I don't remember how to post a new thread..and don't see myself as a contributor.....Carol was mad at me and threw me out huh?....well i don't care...even when i was gone I thought about her and the rest of you all.
I also didn't post anything over at the Trail for a long time...
When I did, Carol and I had a little disagreement about something....I hope that i did not make her feel bad....because i have not felt good about it ever since...don't remember what it was about..
Coreen, or Chloe....the Post that I want to do is over at the Trail....9-21-13 hope that i remembered tha date correctly...have do many figures in my head going round and round lately.....
Hey who changed and moved all of the furniture at the swamp?....put my chair and things (man things) right back where i had them....
Bet u it was that Chloe gal...she is never satisfied with anything i do...always has to be trying to chain me me around her little finger.....HA no way chlose....
Carol…. so sorry about the Saints. I told you most of the sports casters think the Seahawks are the SB favorites. It looked like they came out last night to make a statement.
Solar… have you been hitting the cerveza again… make mine with lime.
I did remove those who were no longer posting a Lon Tim ago. I can't change that from my I Ad I car barely even use this iPad. I'll have to wait until I return homr which won't be soon enough. Coreen could put up a post for anyone. I can't even get the new post section on thid iPad.
Great to see you here jSolar. Happy Chloe is back also. She has been very helpful to me. Indeed all the help I can get. This trip has been stressful for so many reasons I'm not the girl I was the last time I was here and I feel bring here just makes me focus on that. Got an email from the young doc I met on the plane he was talking to me about how effective CBT,cognitive behavioral therapy is , much better than anti depressants. I'm reLly taking the Cymbalta to help with pain control and it does seem to br helping. Sine the stroke, my pain meds don't work as well. Somehow that stroke seemed to have influence on things I found pleasure in. I don't enjoy eating like I did. That was one of my fav things about traveling. I can't eat much. I keep losing weight. I will take to my psych guy about that CBT. You ever heard of it Jan? That doc recommended a couple of good books but I can't find them. One is SOS help with emotions. The other is telling yourself the truth. I think. Have the titles written down somewhere.
Friend from home said it was 80 there. It's freezing here and I'm tired of all the clothes I have to wear to stay mildly comfortable. It gets dark very early. Stay dark late in the am.
Coreen, I will look for a nutribullet. I have something I use to make smoothies, but I want something like you have. It is a great way to get your fruits and veggies. We all need more of those.
Carol, I have heard of cognitive behavioral therapy, but do not know more than any lay person. John does not either. I don't know how the therapist might work with a client/patient.
I hope you can eat more. I am concerned that you are continuing to lose weight.
Carol... looking around, I've noticed Cognitive Behavior Psychology being in the same sentence as Mindfulness (that Jan is most familiar with). It makes sense, in that it sounds a lot like plain old behavioral psychology while incorporating our thinking and reasoning process with it... our ability to change the way we think. Probably one of the reasons that affirmations work. After all, we're no better than out most consistent thoughts, and those we do have control over.
I looked up those books you're looking for, and will link.... don't want to get this comment too long or it'll probably be lost.
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps patients understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. CBT is commonly used to treat a wide range of disorders including phobias, addiction, depression and anxiety.
Cognitive behavior therapy is generally short-term and focused on helping clients deal with a very specific problem. During the course of treatment, people learn how to identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that have a negative influence on behavior. http://psychology.about.com/od/psychotherapy/a/cbt.htm
... the short term sounds very inviting, much like one of those seminars that Jan and John attended, except more personalized. Sure a lot better than years spend with a psycho-therapist combing through your childhood from birth, on.
Coreen, after I get M off to school, I'm going to check out the Nutribullet. As you probably know, I've been using a blender every day for years, but this Nutribullet sounds interesting. I've had this same blender for years now (it won't die!) and it's probably getting close to a good time to replace it.
Renee, Glad your show went well! Your new loom sounds wonderful.
It's good to hear you're going to be sticking around for a while, Solar.
I'm looking forward to seeing your Tai Chi post brought over here, so we can give it the discussion it deserves (work on our Cognitive Behavior and our Physical Fitness at the same time!).
... btw, even if I really did have you wrapped around my finger (which I know was just a joke, but...) I wouldn't want to change even one little thing about you. So don't say that I'm never satisfied! I am.
Chloe, thanks for reminding me of the mindfulness training John and I did a few years ago. It has helped us both so much. The main idea is simply to live in the present and to be always aware of what is going on with us both internally and externally. It has helped me to be aware of the stressors in my life and how I can choose to not allow myself to be stressed by what someone else is doing. And when I do feel stress to do something positive to cope with it. There is no way we can live a stress free life but we can choose ways of coping with it.
We each have to find our own positive coping strategies. Mine are taking a warm bath, A small sewing project that is short term, going for a swim or a walk. Sometimes it is merely cleaning out a drawer or a closet. Again, these are my coping mechanisms. Oh yes, I love to go poke around in thrift shops. That way I don't spend a lot of money.
Mindfulness training also involves meditation and yoga or Tai Chi and something like that. I am going to sign up for a Yoga class in January. I don't meditate but John does and it works for him. I use swimming or taking a walk as my form of meditation.
Another part of mindfulness is to do self-talk. That is when we feel stress by what someone else is doing or says. We have to realize that we are choosing to feel stress and that most of the time another person is not trying to harm us. Talking to ourselves or someone else about how we are reacting to someone else often helps to decrease or avoid this kind of stress. John and I use each other for this. For me, if It is John that I am allowing myself to feels stress about, I have to use the self talk and get myself out of his environment and into another place. This is when I go swim or walk or out of the house. Usually, after a short while we both cool off and can be in each other's company.
Part of my strategy is just the aging process and realizing that I don't want to live the few years I have left feeling angry or hurt or whatever negative feeling there is. I wish I had come to this realization at a younger age.
I think there are mindfulness training centers in most cities. I think doing the training is more helpful than reading a book. Of course DVDs or CDS would be good too.
Tai chi and chi gong (a sitting meditation) is CBT. It all deals with stress, anxiety, fear, adrenals, etc, etc.
But tai chi is better in that it is also a foot reflexology massage when you do its gentle movements....
Chloe, i don't know...forgot and Can't get posting privileges until Carol gets back to the swamp and lets me post a thread.
If you can do it for me...I posted it with Carol in mind on 9-21-13..was in mid sept.....i can copy and past it...but it won't be the same..and it will be to long i think.
Tai chi, along with the chi gong meditation, acupressure and chinese herbal teas....are all that one needs to get healthy, and maintain ones health....the added benefit of doing tai chi...or just the relaxing stretching exercises can't not be ......to my knowledge...be compared...for example:
Swimming uses about 60-65% of total body movement while tai chi uses 85%..
Carol and all....try this out.
Sit straight as you can on a chair...breath in from your abdomen real deeply through your nose if you can...then let you breath out slowly through the mouth...do this about 5-7 times....repeat this while doing it....let the mind relax, also the head, neck, shoulders, chest and back relax....all the while breathing deeply...let your awareness relax....and think of the sun directly above your head...when you think of an orb of light about your head.....direct those ray of light, right into any part of your that you want to...I direct it at my back pain, and it goes away, or a knee pain...
Cbt it exactly this...mind and body working together to form an energy source........that is me, SOLAR energy from the sun is free.....remember we are all made of everything that i s in the universe...so we call on our selves to heal ourselves........hey is that where they doctor heal thy self?.....later outa hear...and here also.....
Oh, and the first part of mind and body healing...is self awareness....and then followed up by self forgiveness....doesn;t matter how little of how big it is we need to forgive ourselves about..just that we do....today im going to forgive meslef for calling this guy out in calls today....jerk.....later gal-pals.....
Jan, Thank you for doing such a good job explaining Mindfulness to us (I actually do think it's an extension of what Carol's new doctor friend is talking about... CBT).
I also agree with you, Jan, regarding your comment about the synchronicity Carol experienced on the plane, having the opportunity (and expounding on it) to meet that holistic doc. Hope you've given that a lot of thought, Carol... and taken time to feel grateful for it. Gratitude is the one emotion that will get us through just about anything we have to work our way through.
Don't forget, everything 'feeling' different... you being different, isn't 'necessarily' a bad thing. We always have to work with whatever it is we have. A rule of the Universe!
Solar, sorry I can't help you out, but I can't post anymore either. But for me, that's fine... I'm not sure I'd remember how to anyway post anyway. As a matter of fact, I prefer to just comment... so please don't add me to the list, Carol. Less responsibility. :)
I just found a very simplistic site that explained to basics behind the idea of Tai Chi in a way that even I can understand.
Tai Chi Internal Discipline: by Master Stephen Hwa
The concept and practice of the core element of classical Tai Chi, "Internal Discipline, is discussed extensively throughout the Tai Chi DVD by Master Stephen Hwa. A brief discussion is presented here:
Internal Discipline enables you to initiate movements from the internal core of the body (the abdomen and back) rather than from the external parts of the body (the limbs), and cultivates and mobilizes your internal energy for health benefits and martial arts applications." http://www.classicaltaichi.com/internal-discipline.html
... my cat just put a hole in my mouse cord, so I'm off to do my errands and get a new one. Even though I'm on a laptop, I much prefer using a mouse. The wireless ones usually don't last long (for me), but I occasionally have a 'claw' problem with the wired ones... can't win!
183 comments:
Renee, I agree. I think it is much harder to lose a spouse one has been with for many years.
My friend took the 2 bottom pictures. She is an amazing photographer.
Thanks jan. Hope they bring good luck.
Carol, I hope so too.
Jan…
beautiful pictures! Thanks for posting them.
Carol…
if I can do it… I will light a candle tonight for you and your healing.
Carol, just reading back to your comment before this post.
Sometimes tears help.
Thanks for lighting the candle Renee. I've felt better since sis got here I have company 24/7.
Jan have you tied sleepy time tea? It works. For me
Jan, nice and thoughtful pictures...thanks for sharing...
Carol, glad to know that big sis
arrived...
Carol, I have not tried sleepytime tea in a while. I will try it tonight. Thanks.
Lately, I have been sleeping much better and longer. I think my sleep patterns have a lot to do with stress, especially over some property my dad left me that I have to manage long distance. I am making plans to turn it over to my sons in the near future. I don't need it and they would like to have it.
Carol, I too am so happy your sis is there. Hello to her from me.
It is grey and cold out today. The hi temp is supposed to be about 39 for the next 3 days. Riley does not linger when she goes out to the potty now.
The ceremony last night was wonderful. There was a women's choir group singing a cappella…. beautiful!
My FIL had a great time. We had pastries and coffee afterwards in a common room. There was a 94 yr old woman who grew up in the same town as my FIL who joined the festivities. They shared many memories together.
I did get to light a candle for you, Carol.
Renee, what a lovely evening for your FIL and you. It is beautiful in older age to see someone you grew up with and share memories. I am speaking from experience.
...or someone from the same town..
testin a keyboard for my iPad
Did some shopping today. Sis helped actually she did most of it for me. I hate shopping. Needed a purse to tote mons of driugs Needed a suit case. I've told you that TV bores the hell out of me but it has been my significant other for so long. Sis hates most tv so I'll lose that relationship. Now she loves movies. Not sure if our interests are compatible. I guess I'll have to change that. I may come back as a clone of sister. At least she's a happy person. So I hope I'll be a happy clone.
Chloe. Ever watched netflix on an iPad? That will make a good substitute. I can also listen to C2c. That will sub for TV. She now likes football if it is one of our teams. ... Saints, Seahawks, bronchos my teams also. We are comparable with food. Hope to do more cooking there.
Create tv is also ok with sis. I like it. It's a pbs channel.
We will also try to get DA. We both love it.
Keyboard works but I do better with one finger typing now.
"I hope I'll be a happy clone."
Carol! You had me laughing so hard when I read what you had to say! It's so good to see you already (at least seemingly) feeling better... (has the nausea let up?).
I hate TV too. I've found, though, that if I can get myself going on a decent series that was good enough to have run a few years, I can get interested enough to get hooked on that though.
I also enjoy a good movie a lot, but the good ones are few and far between the last several years.
I would have to be pretty desperate to watch TV on my Ipad. I have to admit that I am addicted to my big screen during the time I turn it on in the evening (for a while before bed) to watch whatever I've managed to interest myself in for the time being. It is now that French series I mentioned a few days ago.
I hope you keep the comments coming. Your attitude (and you!) are amazing, Carol! You and big sis are on the right path. KEEP MOVING FORWARD! Have a great vacation!
Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy! Love you!!
Your sense of humor can fuel me for days, Carol.
... hope that suitcase you got to lug your meds out west with you serves it's purpose. :)
I've haven't traveled back that way for a long time now. Please take pics and share your view on the cultural (and food!) differences. Ha... better take you spices with you, too. The food there will taste bland compared to your usual preferences. Watch and learn! Then share.
Please.
... oh, and PS I have my IPad in a case that is also a keyboard. I don't like typing on a touch screen. I really love the case... got it at the same time I purchased the IPad from ATT. A very compact, powerful little setup... ready for travel.
... the cellular WIFI is the biggest selling point to me. Communication, entertainment, research... always at your fingertips. Good for the brain.
ooops. Cellular wife = cellular connection. Bombarded with new words to go with all the beloved new technology.
... jeez: wife=wifi!
Carol, you are sounding so good. Sounds like your sis is the best medicine you have had.
I have to admit I love TV. The years I was single, I seldom watched TV - did not have cable. When I was married before I did not watch much TV.. I always had so much reading to do related to work and school. When I was not reading I was sewing. I cannot watch TV for longer than about 2-3 hours at a time. I get very restless. I like my big screen TV too. Would not like a movie on a little screen.
I don't like typing on a touch screen either. I like a keyboard.
Carol, Please stay on here while you are gone from home. Like Chloe, I love hearing from you.
I'll make every effort to keep in touch I'll have my sisters wifi which should be more reliable. My ligule wifi is doing better. Or should I say wife. I could use a good wife also.
Patriots play bronchos tomorrow. I'll be torn. Much of my family ate bronchos fans. They live in co. Any other time I pull for the Patriots. I'll certainly be torn next week when Seahawks play the Saints. Big sis is a Seahawks fan. She also likes the Saints. She said it was a no lose for her.
Lsu beat Texas
a& m. Yeehaw.
Diner was good but it took so long that my stomach started hurting. From hunger. Had shrimp Rockafellow. Don't like oysters so they sub shrimp for me.
Frien drove sis's rental car to the rest. When we went to leave we couldn't fiind the key we panicked. It is one of those keys that retracts The friend had to show us. Neither sis nor I are very technically up to date on new gadgets. One finger typing is very slow. Dang me.
Chloe, make the cold go away. Let's all concentrate. EWe can leave the snow for Rick though. Sis said her place will be colder inside than my house. I'm back at the house. Camp would be way too cold. Ready for the tropics.
Ha, Carol. The only way I know how to do that is with an electric blanket. I also keep a personal heater sitting right next to me to switch on whenever I 'feel' overly chilled. I hate the 'cold' feeling.
Have you noticed that those of us in the south complain a lot more about the cold than those who have to put up with it on a regular basis? I see people here (that I'm sure are from up north) wearing a short sleeve t-shirt and sometimes even shorts when I'm freezing to death.
I forget exactly where big sis lives. I know the west coast, but I can't remember how far north. Is it Northern California or is it further north? Whichever, it will be colder there. Probably dryer too.
You and sis need to take a trip to Hawaii or someplace close from this side of the U.S... one of these days.
Visualize this: Christmas in Hawaii is usually about 80 degrees. How's that sound? I get warmer just thinking about it (as long as my heater is turned up to the max). :)
When we were discussing the weather yesterday at TM, I realized that between you, me, Blonde, and Jace plus Jan... we have a big chunk of Southern United States covered.
It begins at New Mexico, then Arizona, Texas and Louisiana. Go a little further and we have Tony in Florida. After that, I guess South Carolina with Flatus and Sturgeon... just tracing along the lover line (coast once we reach Texas).
Wait! I transposed Arizona and New Mexico. But you get the idea.
Yeah… I'm with you guys… I'd rather have a keyboard too.
Carol… glad to know you will continue to post here… I'd miss you. And of course I'll be rooting for my Patriots tonight. Did you know that most sports people are predicting that the Seattle Seahawks are the mostly likely Super Bowl champs this year. And thanks for wanting snow for Rick.
Chloe… it's cold as hell here today. It's mostly because of the wind…. very biting.
Everyone I know that moves south from here say that they can't take the cold any longer. I LOVE snow and cooler temps. I hate heat. Guess that means you and I are both in the perfect places.
Rick used to travel to Houston for his job. Says he misses it. He used to go to a place you've mentioned before… The Woodlands.
Renee, it is very cold here too. We have wind which makes it worse. It started snowing last night before we went to bed. Must not have snowed much because it is only covering the ground -not deep snow. We have bad road conditions - snow covering ice. We are very toasty inside.
I feel the heat more since going through M-pause. I tolerate cold better than heat. I can layer clothing and be comfortable. I like the room cool in winter with a little cover over my legs and feet. We turn off furnace at night and sleep under a down comforter. I sleep with a gown on and then wind up shedding it in middle of night - too hot. John sleeps in sweat pants shirt.
Riley sleeps in her taxi. We put it in an inside room that stays pretty warm through the night.
Carol, you do well with one finger typing. I do that on my cell - hate it. I liked my previous cell phone best, but there are features of this phone I like.
Chloe, interesting that NM and Arizona are in south too. After living in TX, LA, and NM, I realize what a huge difference there is between the southeast and southwest. It changes somewhere in West TX. The accent and the temp/humidity changes drastically.
Also, in NM with the large number of New Mexicans with hispanic roots, the culture is totally different than any other place I have lived. Anglos are in the minority here. Most people have some hispanic roots. I really like it here because there is such an acceptance of diversity, both racial/cultural and sexual orientation. We have pretty equal numbers of liberals and conservatives. Our previous governor was democrat and out current gov is a republican woman.
Carol, John prefers the house warmer and me cooler. We have thermostat at about 69-70 during daytime and 71-72 in evening. John lives in sweats in winter. He often will have on 2 sweatshirts.
New car technology...forget about the retracting keylike starter tool...
the newest car models either have you press a big button on the dash or turn the ignition w/o using any key (there is no slot for a key...
the secret is that
you need a remote fob in your possession, same with opening doors & as long as you have it near you, the locked door will open...
most important you need to have your foot on the brake when you start a car now...one of my friends went to use another's car
& you would have thought he was
on 'candid camera' trying to figure out how to start the car!...
And since it is a short week
& I know Carol you & big sis are
preparing to travel...let me say
now to everyone, hope you all have
a very good Thanksgiving...would seem that we all have many reasons to be thankful...
And good thing you are not traveling to the northeast
this week, since it seems there may be stormy conditions on Wednesday heading this way, one of the busiest travel days of the year...
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone here in case some of you are busy these next few days.
We are going to my middle son's house for dinner - here in ABQ. My DIL has family here so it will be a large gathering. We are all bringing something to eat.
I am thankful I don't have to cook thanksgiving dinner this year. It is getting harder for me to turn the dinner out. I will probably work mon, tues and wed since I don't have dinner or house to prepare. Yeeaaa!
Carol, I sure hope you and your sis have a safe and pleasant travel.
Chloe, Coreen, Renee - what are you doing for Thanksgiving. Are you cooking at home or traveling.
I am having both sons and families for dinner tonight. I made green chili, chicken enchiladas. It was quite a job. I chopped up my chicken last night - I used roasted chicken from the grocery. I used corn tortillas rather than flour tortillas. I heated the tortillas first in a skillet and then dredged them in green chili sauce before rolling them up into tortillas. You have to soften corn tortillas to roll them up. I have a spanish rice recipe I have used for years and then will have pinto beans with some melted cheese over them. It is definitely not a low calorie meal.
I do have a little concern. My sis is not real tolerant if I don't do things her way and I don't think she is real empathetic that I had a stroke not long ago. I will talk with her about it. I do want to go but am nervous about being far away from my safe zone.
I am fearful and much that I do is because of that. I try to distract myself from my fears.
Do you understand why I am afraid?
Carol, I do understand. Seems you are feeling especially vulnerable.
I think it would be good to sit down with her and try to explain just what you are saying here.
Carol, I said "I understand" but I am sure I don't understand completely. I have not had a stroke. I do feel that home is my safe zone too. I too would be anxious about being away from home and not being able to get home on my own. That is my worst nightmare - in fact I often have dreams of trying to get home and cannot find my way home for one reason or another. This dream haunts me.
I won't have my doc who is a godsend She can refer me to someone I have her private numbers. She is in this new program call MD vIP
You do understand Jan. "I did talk with sis and I think she is sympathetic. She said her daughter, April will probably be more empathic I will have all her kids for help also. They are great. Haven't seen them in a long time.
Chloe what else have you found on Netflix that you think I might like. It will sub for tv. I use tv for an escape. Reading is difficult. I was reading before the strokes iwith little problems.
Renee don't know what happened to your Pats. They were way ahead when I fell asleep.
Jan, that is my recurring dream too, has been for about as long as I can remember... not being able to get home. All kinds of things happen to frustrate my getting home in those dreams: elevators not working, not being able to remember how to get back, losing my cell... actually it's usually my whole purse that I can't find. Often it has been stolen (in those dreams). There's always countless, insurpassable occurrences that keep me from finding my way back.
Chloe, how interesting about our dreams.
When you said that you were fearful, Carol, I felt it was all the feeling of a lack of control. I didn't think it was only about the trip.
I haven't had a stroke (yet), but can completely empathize with the turmoil you must be going through. Not completely obviously, but I do think that one thing we have in common are our control issues, and the fact that we don't like to be dependent on others.
It's really hard to put these feelings into words and that's probably one of the main reason they're so hard to deal with. Anything I try to say here (or anywhere else) I realize sounds shallow and over simplified, but you do what you can with what you've got.
You've taken an important step forward by expressing your fears to your sister. Once they're talked about, then there's usually a solution.
It sounds like big sis knows her limitations, but at the same time knows how to handle any situation. Your niece and her kids sound great. If you can just 'let go', and take it one day at a time (baby steps!)then I believe that it will allow you to enjoy this trip. You have to give yourself 'permission' to enjoy it (that's the letting go part) and then sit back and enjoy the ride.
Yes, Jan. I was surprised when you said that you have similar dreams. I've always assumed that they are all about insecurity.
I'm sure that's what you're experiencing every day, Carol. Insecurity. Fear has always been one of the ingredients of my everyday life. I just take caution to lot let it take control. Ever.
Interesting that I've never had that dream. But now it's reality. So afraid of running out of my important drugs. That would be a nightmare.
I know you have lots of 'faith', Carol. Faith can get you through anything that comes your way.
But at some point I hope you'll not settle for 'getting through', but instead enjoy things just as they 'are'.
You still have complete control, BTW. That person inside your head is always the boss. She just has to speak up and settle for no less than what she/you need to enjoy (feel safe in) your situations as they change each day. You're still powerful. You still have lots of choices. Ha... I still sound like a commercial (for what, I have no idea).
Still, I believe everything I say (or I don't say it). :)
Carol, the only way I can make choice on what to watch on Neflix, is to go Neflix, signin (they'll make suggestions on your home page too) and do some searching and looking around... after which I put about 20 (give or take) things on my stream Que. Then when you go to watch them, you can choose from your que. If you don't like what you chose once you start it, then delete it from your que and go to the next one. Some things do take a while to warm up too though.
As you watch more movies, TV, etc. by downsteaming, Netflix will make more suggestion on what you may like. That's why it's good to rate (when they ask) what you hate as opposed to what you like.
I could make suggestions, but it wouldn't make sense... because I've noticed we have different taste. One thing I never do is try to pick something from Netflix without having it already qued. It's just too confusing, because there's so much... and so much of it I wouldn't like.
In case it's not handy: Netflix Home
Jan…
We are going over to Rick's brother's house for Thanksgiving. He LOVES to cook. I will bring over a couple pies (which I buy from the local cafe) and some wine. I don't have time to cook. I'm doing a craft show on Friday and Saturday. We will set up my booth Thanksgiving morning. It's a local show… only a fifteen minute drive away.
Renee, I was surprised when you said Rick had been to The Woodlands. It's about 20 minutes from us, and we go there often. We had brunch there yesterday, as a matter of fact, at the Cheese Cake Factory. Oh, and yumm, they have the once a year holiday pumpkin cheese cake in. It's so good, although my favorite is the plain ol' New York Cheese cake... that and Key lime (which is very tart there).
Carol… it was the weirdest football game I've ever seen. The Patriots were down 24-0 at halftime. They wound up winning with a field goal with only 2 minutes left in the overtime period. Final score: 34-31. The announcers said it was one of the biggest comebacks in football history.
Hope you do well at your Craft show. Sure you'll enjoy it.
Carol… I think I understand your fear. Even though Rick and both love to travel… I always feel nervous about a trip. It's because I'm out of my comfort zone of home. Although I'm sure I don't understand completely either. Glad you were able to communicate with you sister.
Jan… I have a dream where I'm at a craft show… I leave my booth to talk to someone and I can't find my booth again. But I've never had the one where I can't find my way home.
Chloe… thanks… it's a small show (only 25 of us), but I LOVE doing it. I do make money… but more importantly for me, I get to party with friends.
I've only been to a Cheese Cake factory twice… both times in Hawaii. Their cheese cake was to die for!
Dreams are not always what the obvious seems to be.
As I read back in my dream journal, my dreams are not always trying to get home - usually just trying to get to a certain place. Sometimes it is trying to get back to a place I have been or sometimes trying to find someone or some thing. Sometimes, I am trying to find my purse and cannot find it.
Renee, sounds like a nice thanksgiving for you.
Hope your craft show is a successful one. There is an art and craft show in ABQ Thanksgiving weekend also.
We have a cheesecake factory here. I have never been. I am not a fan of cheesecake. I am a fan of pie, especially apple pie. I think that originates from the area where I grew up. We never had cheesecake but had pie or cake for dessert. I don't care for pumpkin pie.
I was tearful for a change at the docs she feels this grief and depression is a physiological result of the stroke. She again apologized for not recognizing how the stroke affected me emotionally. She is so cool I don't think any other doc sort of a shrink would even be that concerned how this has affected mr psychologically she spends a lot of time with me and gave me her personal email cell phone etc. she in this mdvip program. You have to pay a nice fee to stay with a doc in this program. You can look up the program online. She referred me to another doc up in the Seattle area who is part of the program. The program is an overall health mantainance program. It's not cheap. Some patients had to end up finding other docs. They will also see family or visitors you have. You can get in in a moments notice and have long, iunrusjed. visits. I was there long enough to go thru half a box of Kleenex. I was especially Geary today. Nervous about everything. Oh, I have drugs for that also. Too many drugs. I could open my own pharmacy.
I have my mail order meds going to sisters house. Hope they get there. Their computer program is retarded,
I started a doc sow about Steve jobs early this morning on netflix. Chloe have you ever started watching House of Vards? When you start,you won't quit until you finish. It won awards for best original series. I know you would enjoy it. I started orange is the new black but did finish it. May while in Seattle.
That orange... Is about a middle class woman who. Got in trouble having illegal drugs in her luggage. She didn't know a roommate. Did it. She is in a woman's prison. Made me feel right at home. I don't miss my female inmates. They are. Irritating. Too Whinny. Too much drama. I enjoyed the guys more.
I hope I can put up a post while on vacay. I'm bring my lap top don't think I can do it from iPadprobably won't have any grat pic unless it is from income of their neat grocery stores
It's col and been raining all day same for tomorrow. Maybe some family pics for a post. Can't wait to see the kids. They are cte smart and musically talented.
Carol, your doc sounds wonderful. I am sold on her. So glad you have her.
You sound like you are getting excited about your trip to the Northwest. Don't worry about pictures. Between the rest of us we can put up some new posts. We just want to hear from you.
Would love to see some family pics for a new post.
John gets mail order meds. The messages on the computer they send are often confusing. But the meds always get here.
I'll have to finish Spiral before I start House of Cards, Carol. Once I start something, I become obsessed (which is why I haven't starte that book yet, which is now buried under 'heaven knows what'.
I'm just now starting season 4 on the Spiral series (and loving it!)have not yet checked to see if I can get season 5 online somewhere, as Netflix doesn't have it yet.
Glad you had an in depth conversation with your doc. Jan's right, sounds like she a wonderful doctor. Glad to see the lines of communication are open.
Hope you let us know when your flight is, etc. Looking forward to hearing about your trip.
Jan, We rarely have cheese cake when we go to the Cheese Cake Factory. I like their pasta a lot an Glen likes lots of other things there. I think the thing that draws me there is the delicious sour dough bread they serve us while we're waiting.
I'm like you... more of a pie and cake person.
I don't like spicy food though. I'm more into the natural flavors.
Just saw this, Renee: "I leave my booth to talk to someone and I can't find my booth again."
Sounds like a similar message, though.
... think it says a lot about how important your work is to you. That's a good thing.
I like cakes with whipped frosting. Less sweet.
Just want to make sure I catch Carol before she takes off tomorrow…. so…
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Happy Thanksgiven back at ya Chloe. I'm cold. Sis keeps my heat down to prepare me. Almost packed but also pooped. I'm prepared to hibernate in this weather.
Brought Maggie to doggy camp it won't be so fun for her in this weather. It's suppose to clear up the next several days here and we're leaving. Not sure about PNW.
You guys up in the NE stay warm.
Vacay is getting close and I'm anxious. It's been so long dice I traveled.
I'll keep in touch while gone guys. I would miss communicating with y'all. I'd miss the love I get from you guys. It's neat that I can feel so much love from friend I've never even met. Appreciate it lots. Love you guys much.
Ha, ... "packed but... pooped". Love it!
Yep, it's supposed to warm up in a couple of days, Carol. Then little Maggie will be able to get outdoors and have some fun. You're going to be a couple of hours earlier there, if I'm remembering correctly. So the time thing will be a little different too.
Traveling is going to be great for you... being around your sister 24/7 is going to be great for you too, and spending the holidays with family is just what you need. I'm so glad you'll be keeping in contact. Will check back in regularly to see how things are going. Love you.
Good Wishes for a safe trip to you & big sis Carol...
Know that we are all with you in spirit no matter where you are...
I do believe that your visit with your family in WA is going to be the best therapy...and hey being a bit anxious over traveling is ok...
Again Happy Thanksgiving to everyone who gathers here....
Have a good trip Carol and sister. You will be an hour earlier than we are here in NM. I will be thinking about you all tomorrow. I hope the skies are friendly and you both don't have any long waits.
Take care Carol. I love you much.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you here and anyone just looking in.
Hey, Carol.
I just checked the forecast and it looks like you're taking the cold weather with you! It'll be up to 72 by next Tuesday (although it probably won't last for long). It can't come too soon for me, this weather is really rough on the humans and the animals in my neck of the woods.
Seriously, though, you're going to have a wonderful holiday in Washington. Enjoy! Can't wait to hear about it.
To everyone else here (and beyond) Happy, happy, happy everything!!
Happy Thanksgiving! Happy Hanukka!
Love to all!
Can't wait to hear from Carol up in the wooly northwest too.
Made it as far as the airport. Not without incident. Had to tear thru my packed suitcase looking for my gloves. Still nervous. Will be until settled. I need a personal assistant. Or a husband and a wife. We still have a 2 hour wait but I wanted to be here. Sis has been extremely tolerant of me. She deserves an award. There's wifi here. Something to do before reading myNationsl Enquirer. A gift I allow myself when I fly. Keep up your prayers. They are helping.
In Houston. Don't have the stamina to do the necessary walking carrying my laptop. Didn't want to bring it but there are things I can't do wit. IPadie. I need a nap now. We have a ;40. minute wait. We got lunch. I'll ask for assistance when I go back home.
Happy Hanukka also.
Thanks Renee for reminding us.
Carol, so good to hear from you. It is hard for me to get to airport without incident.
I wonder what time you all get to Sis' home? It is 5:15 here in ABQ. I hope you are there now.
The eagle had landed.
That trip kicked my ass. It wore me out. Evenmy left side is weaker.
I sat next to a young interesting doctor who is a missionary in Hounduras. He shared info that I can use personally. Synchronicity we had several incidents of that today.
Carol, love the synchronicity that happened on your trip. You were open to these experiences. Would love to hear more about your visit with the Doc missionary from Honduras and other synchronous incidents that happened on your trip.
That was a long trip.
Happy Day, everyone!
Traveling isn't easy like it used to be, Carol. We used to to (literally) jump on a plane at the last minute, and off we'd go. Those were the good ol' days... I have many fond memories.
Well, now you can sit back and relax. Let big sis take over. Soak it up!
Everyone... hope you're all soaking up the good life.
I know I'm weird, but I just can't eat turkey anymore. I've just started seeing Thanksgiving as a 'mass' massacre of turkeys. Weird, I know... but it gets hard and harder for me to think about exactly what it is I'm eating.
Seems impossible, though, to become a complete vegetarian. Especially since vegetables have never been a favorite of mine. I do like anything wheat, corn, etc.... love fruit (and unfortunately, sugar)... but cravings and realization makes me aware of the fact that I have no choice but to round out my diet. I love to eat, after all!
... just conflicted, as usual.
Renee,
Hope you're having a blast!
... Coreen, I'm missing your holiday posts. I'll be disappointed if we don't start seeing your decorations soon.
I can't friggin believe it...i decided to switch pc's and my old one let me in the first try through the Trail bolg....
Carol,
Ive tried and tried to get on the swamp but nada...I don't have time to chat to you or anyone..but will do so later on.
I will try to scan a few of the past threads that you all have posted to see whats what......are there any newbies?
Wishing you all a very happy thanks giving......
L & L Solar
Hey, Solar. It is sooo good to see you here.
Are you spending the day with family? Love to see some pics of that little baby niece of yours. The way you described her at the birthday you went to for her... well, you sound in love.
It's always good to have you around.
Hi Solar, welcome back. Good to see you here.
Chloe, I have never been a big fan of turkey. I do love dressing/stuffing. As long as I can have some dressing (that is what we call it in OKlahoma) and cranberry sauce with it, I am good.
Some days I can be a vegetarian. I love vegetables and fruits. However, I will go several days without meat and then I get a hankerin for a burger or something like that.
I too love sweet stuff. Never had problem leaving salty stuff alone.
Hi Solar, welcome back. Good to see you here.
Chloe, I have never been a big fan of turkey. I do love dressing/stuffing. As long as I can have some dressing (that is what we call it in OKlahoma) and cranberry sauce with it, I am good.
Some days I can be a vegetarian. I love vegetables and fruits. However, I will go several days without meat and then I get a hankerin for a burger or something like that.
I too love sweet stuff. Never had problem leaving salty stuff alone.
Emailed my doc shr dorsnt think itz syroke ecyension
Hi Solar welcome back. I couldnt dign in withvany of my nrwvgadgets for a while they almost ended in the river , I was so frustrated
Why did you have to email your doc, Carol? Are you doing OK?
I get a hankerin' for a burger or steak (or roast beef) every so often too, Jan. I do have mixed emotions, though.
Like you, I like all the side dishes that go with the turkey, etc. more than I like the meat/foul.
Hope you enjoy your family gathering today too, Jan. Nice that you don't have to carry the load of doing the whole meal.
Hope you and John enjoy!
... will be checking back in to see how you're doing Carol.
... just realized that you must have been concerned about your left side hurting. You're probable exhausted and stressed.
A lot happening in a short space of time.
I don't know why this is but food always tastes better at someone else's house than in my house.
Had a lovely thanksgiving at son's and DIL's home. Food was so good. We played Charades later. That was fun.
Left side wasn't hurting. It was weaker. Worried that I had another stroke or an extension of old one. Doc thinks it's too late for an extension. I'm better now still frustrated with mail order pharm they are suppose to send my med here but can't get thru to them. Without meds, I'm in a pickle.
If you're meds don't arrive, Carol, you can get some from any pharmacy by calling your doctor and telling her the situation. She'll call the pharmacy and prescribe you enough to hold you over.
There's always a solution. Don't get stressed over these these things and enjoy your vacation.
... ha, this from me, the biggest worrier of all. Always have a backup plan. Line up a local pharmacy and the doc... just in case.
You are so lucky to have a doctor you can contact. That is 'so' unusual with doctors now. Anything happens, you get a message on their recorder to go to emergency or call 911. Big help they are.
Chloe, great suggestions. You are so right about docs these days.
Carol, let us know how this turns out with your meds. You do have a great doc that you can contact and she responds.
Glad you are doing better. That was a long and exhausting trip.
So far having a lovely, stress-free morning. DIL sent us home some turkey so we will have this with a baked sweet potato tonight for dinner. Maybe a small fruit smoothie for dessert. Back to eating healthy again.
I started John a t-shirt quilt.
Crossing pugit sound to Kingston. Brought my camera but not my charger havent learned to use phone camera. Rats on pics.
May borrow a cameta from sis.
Is everything cool there? We are finally where glorias condo is but are out to lunch.
Your day sounds perfect, Jan. Sweet potatoes are supposed t be one of the most nutritious foods on the face of the earth.
Beautiful day here, Carol... although cold last night and tonight. Supposed to be 80 by Wednesday. I'm hoping. Just can't seem to deal with being cold anymore... it literally drains me (oh lordy, its not even winter yet).
Hope you are having a great time. It must feel good to be under your sis's wing. Enjoy!
Carol, I bet you are happy to get to your Sis's condo. I love Seattle and that area.
It is cold at night here - temps in the 40's and 50's during late morning into night and then 20's early morning. It is sunny all day so feels much warmer than 50's to me. I went out to run some errands early afternoon and wore a t-shirt and long sleeved shirt and was comfortable. I like it cool.
Chloe, I love sweet potatoes. Ate a lot of them growing up. My mother served us lots of veggies - not much meat or desserts.
Chloe, you live in a good area for your dislike of cold weather. Hot weather drains me.
Did you do another new post Jan. If so, icant fid it.
Carol. I have not put up a new post.
If anyone else wants to do a new post, I think that would be great. I got nothing.
Left camera charger at home and not yet comfortable with phone camera
at BIL's house now just spitting distsce from the Straight of Juan de Fuca. He lives in Port townson Wa its been a challenging vacay. My meds are due any day now but going to sistet's mail and we wont be back thete until end of the week. Hope I survive. Sis will not take me back to check the mail. Sis is reslly anti pharm.
No cell signal here just wifi can only text or email. Defiinitely no TV. I might have jumped the gun taking this vacay. Should have made sure I had all the meds I needed first.
Carol, wish I knew what to tell you in this situation. John and I will say prayers that all will be well for you.
So glad that you can write to us. If anyone else does not post something at 200, I will put something up for a new post.
Saints play Seahawks today. It will be a tough game. I'll have to go to some sports bar to watch it. No tv around here. It is ashamed that I don't drink. Even if I did ,I couldntp mix all the drugs with alcohol.
Don't think I've ever been anywhere with no TV or phone signal, Carol.
I looked up the area where you are and it is really beautiful. Sit back and enjoy the ride! Glad you took your computer with you.
Hope the game goes well today.
ps I feel like you're on the other end of the world from our little cubby down here.
Game is not until Monday. I'm disorientated.
Chloe, I feel so cut off from civilization. Tired of tapping all communication.
Carol, I know John sympathizes with you. He cannot live without TV. Do you play any games on your computer? He plays solitaire.
Carol, Don't forget with that computer you can go just about anywhere you want. You've got communication... you can get movies and TV series on Amazon or Netflix. On Amazon you may have to pay a small price for individual downloads, but at least they're available.
You will get your meds one way or another, so don't worry about that.
Just hunker in and rest assured that every thing is under control.
... you can relieve the disoriented feeling by looking around for things that are familiar on your computer. Talk to your sister about how your feeling.
Love you, Carol.
Carol, wish I had something to add. I am thinking of you. I think it is difficult to be away from home under ordinary circumstances, so I am sure it is more difficult for you to be away from your comfort and safety zone.
Carol,
I feel so guilty for being away so long. I can't feel any worse.!
I have not read any other tread other than this one...and will try next week
I am studying for an exam Morrow, but will have some time Tuesday that im off.
I think that your are getting some great advise from the people that love here on the swamp, and what Chloe just said about talking to your computer is correct imo...it will get you used to it again.
Hang in there.! The best way to beat anything...is with humor..and you have that to spare...will be thinking of you....
that had a to in front of the morrow...the alligators ate it?
Stuff still gets routed from the pcs...to the swamp and over to you...
Is the sis that is keeping you company the same one you threw in the pool while the snake was in it?
Watch out for pay-back time....
http://www.npr.org/blogs/deceptivecadence/2013/12/01/247543086/da-vinci-s-string-organ-must-be-heard-to-be-believed
Good luck on your test, Solar.
... let us know how it goes.
Hey Solarman…. fancy seeing you here!
I had a pretty good fair. Had a great time with my craft friends. I spent part of my profits to buy a beautiful small cherry tapestry loom. Gonna play around with it this winter.
Glad everyone had a good turkey day. Rick and I did too.
Carol… here's wishing your Saints much luck tonight. I'll be rooting for them.
Renee, So glad your fair went well and mainly that you had a great time. You should enjoy that new loom this winter.
Hey good to see you here Solar...pretty sure that we are all pleased you found your way back...hope you stay for awhile next time...
Carol, hope that you have been able to get more comfortable with your surroundings with big sis & family & that your meds arrived....Is it snowing where you are, the weather reports are showing snow in the NW...
Chloe, this should be the week for me to do any Christmas decorating, it was really cold Thanksgiving weekend, but this week it is better, so we shall see if I get outside at some point...
Jan, I'm with you about heat v. cold...the southern climate is mostly humid & warm to hot, I really don't like humidity or temps over 75...I can deal with the cold, but have no use for snow....Renee, I know you guys like it, so I'll be happy if the snow winds up a few hundred miles north every time...
Coreen im going to be around from now on. ....will be checking in as often as i can.
Chloe, I took this last test and it felt pretty good, I was the second one finished...it was the fourth test with one to go.
It took me a while to get the right study habits back again....been a long, long time and this is a fast pace course.
Jan.....im with you and Coreen with the hot versus cold thing. I wouldn't get mad if it stayed 70 degrees all year round.....
Going to do my daily tai-chi now.
I missed it a cpl of days ago, due to a lot of studying that had to be done. I feel guilty whenever i miss doing my daily tune ups:
20 min of chi-meditation, then a 10 min stretching energy exercise, a different one for about another 15 min....then the tai-chi routine that lasts for about 20-25 min....still do some weight training, but only twice per week...and on the light side...not heavy and not too long.
Carol, the reason that i wrote this is b/c im going to post about tai-chi if its ok with you?
I will be bugging you about it a lot....
Chloe, I probably won't remember how to do a thread here. If i go and find it, will you post it for me...NO what u mean no?.......
About tai chi Solar, I confess I haven't seriously tried it, but maybe if you hound us, it may sink in...
and believe it or not, recently I bought a nutribullet, which I have been using just about daily as a snack, it is soo
easy, not like juicers which were a lot of work, clean up, waste & very loud...
honestly when I get the ingredients together I often think of what you used to tell us about your healthy veggie/fruit drink (the beet, carrot, apple)...
trust me this is a snap, even for me who hates anything about cooking...I put in spinach, strawberries, raspberries & a banana (that's the key) add water & in a minute it is all made into a smoothie, (the color is not so great, but it really tastes good & there's no wasted pulp stuff & clean up is a breeze)...
Would never have thought I'd take the time to do this, but so far, I'm hooked...it's like I have to because I miss not having it!...
Coreen,
That is great.! Im glad that you are doing all of that. My son Tom bought a nutribullet also..he loves it.
I will be hounding you all about tai-chi and acupressure, NO not acupuncture, pay attention, acupressure...im going to suggest a cpl of routines...that are so easy..that anyone can do.
I started a cpl of guys over at the va hospital. One is even in a wheel chair. It is that easy....and there is never a wrong way of doing it....but mark my words.....uh what was i saying? ........................just kidding...once you get started you will be hooked b/c it will give u immediate results.....that and acupressure.....
I don't remember how to post a new thread..and don't see myself as a contributor.....Carol was mad at me and threw me out huh?....well i don't care...even when i was gone I thought about her and the rest of you all.
I also didn't post anything over at the Trail for a long time...
When I did, Carol and I had a little disagreement about something....I hope that i did not make her feel bad....because i have not felt good about it ever since...don't remember what it was about..
Coreen, or Chloe....the Post that I want to do is over at the Trail....9-21-13 hope that i remembered tha date correctly...have do many figures in my head going round and round lately.....
Hey who changed and moved all of the furniture at the swamp?....put my chair and things (man things) right back where i had them....
Bet u it was that Chloe gal...she is never satisfied with anything i do...always has to be trying to chain me me around her little finger.....HA no way chlose....
will check in a little later...
Carol….
so sorry about the Saints. I told you most of the sports casters think the Seahawks are the SB favorites. It looked like they came out last night to make a statement.
Solar… have you been hitting the cerveza again… make mine with lime.
Solar, not sure how your posting ability disappeared, but am pretty sure that it would have to be Carol to get you back on that list...
I did remove those who were no longer posting a Lon Tim ago. I can't change that from my I
Ad I car barely even use this iPad. I'll have to wait until I return homr which won't be soon enough. Coreen could put up a post for anyone. I can't even get the new post section on thid iPad.
We watched part of the game b/t Saints and Seahawks. John was yelling for the Saints but to no avail. Sorry the Saints lost.
Great to see you here jSolar. Happy Chloe is back also. She has been very helpful to me. Indeed all the help I can get. This trip has been stressful for so many reasons I'm not the girl I was the last time I was here and I feel bring here just makes me focus on that.
Got an email from the young doc I met on the plane he was talking to me about how effective CBT,cognitive behavioral therapy is , much better than anti depressants. I'm reLly taking the Cymbalta to help with pain control and it does seem to br helping. Sine the stroke, my pain meds don't work as well. Somehow that stroke seemed to have influence on things I found pleasure in. I don't enjoy eating like I did. That was one of my fav things about traveling. I can't eat much. I keep losing weight.
I will take to my psych guy about that CBT. You ever heard of it Jan? That doc recommended a couple of good books but I can't find them. One is SOS help with emotions. The other is telling yourself the truth. I think. Have the titles written down somewhere.
Friend from home said it was 80 there. It's freezing here and I'm tired of all the clothes I have to wear to stay mildly comfortable. It gets dark very early. Stay dark late in the am.
Coreen, I will look for a nutribullet. I have something I use to make smoothies, but I want something like you have. It is a great way to get your fruits and veggies. We all need more of those.
Carol, I have heard of cognitive behavioral therapy, but do not know more than any lay person. John does not either. I don't know how the therapist might work with a client/patient.
I hope you can eat more. I am concerned that you are continuing to lose weight.
Carol….
google Dr. John Sarno… he's written several books about the mind/body connection and pain. Rick read them and it's helped him.
... nice t see this group together again. A very interesting conversation.
Carol... looking around, I've noticed Cognitive Behavior Psychology being in the same sentence as Mindfulness (that Jan is most familiar with). It makes sense, in that it sounds a lot like plain old behavioral psychology while incorporating our thinking and reasoning process with it... our ability to change the way we think. Probably one of the reasons that affirmations work. After all, we're no better than out most consistent thoughts, and those we do have control over.
I looked up those books you're looking for, and will link.... don't want to get this comment too long or it'll probably be lost.
Here's a short definition I just looked up:
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps patients understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. CBT is commonly used to treat a wide range of disorders including phobias, addiction, depression and anxiety.
Cognitive behavior therapy is generally short-term and focused on helping clients deal with a very specific problem. During the course of treatment, people learn how to identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that have a negative influence on behavior. http://psychology.about.com/od/psychotherapy/a/cbt.htm
... the short term sounds very inviting, much like one of those seminars that Jan and John attended, except more personalized. Sure a lot better than years spend with a psycho-therapist combing through your childhood from birth, on.
Amazon has both your books:
SOS Help for Emotions: Managing Anxiety, Anger, and Depression Paperback
http://www.amazon.com/SOS-Help-Emotions-Managing-Depression/dp/0935111522
Telling Yourself the Truth: Find Your Way Out of Depression, Anxiety, Fear, Anger, and Other Common Problems by Applying the Principles of Misbelief Therapy
http://www.amazon.com/Telling-Yourself-Truth-Depression-Principles/dp/0764223259
Coreen, after I get M off to school, I'm going to check out the Nutribullet. As you probably know, I've been using a blender every day for years, but this Nutribullet sounds interesting. I've had this same blender for years now (it won't die!) and it's probably getting close to a good time to replace it.
Renee, Glad your show went well! Your new loom sounds wonderful.
It's good to hear you're going to be sticking around for a while, Solar.
I'm looking forward to seeing your Tai Chi post brought over here, so we can give it the discussion it deserves (work on our Cognitive Behavior and our Physical Fitness at the same time!).
... btw, even if I really did have you wrapped around my finger (which I know was just a joke, but...) I wouldn't want to change even one little thing about you. So don't say that I'm never satisfied! I am.
Chloe, thanks for reminding me of the mindfulness training John and I did a few years ago. It has helped us both so much. The main idea is simply to live in the present and to be always aware of what is going on with us both internally and externally. It has helped me to be aware of the stressors in my life and how I can choose to not allow myself to be stressed by what someone else is doing. And when I do feel stress to do something positive to cope with it. There is no way we can live a stress free life but we can choose ways of coping with it.
We each have to find our own positive coping strategies. Mine are taking a warm bath, A small sewing project that is short term, going for a swim or a walk. Sometimes it is merely cleaning out a drawer or a closet. Again, these are my coping mechanisms. Oh yes, I love to go poke around in thrift shops. That way I don't spend a lot of money.
Mindfulness training also involves meditation and yoga or Tai Chi and something like that. I am going to sign up for a Yoga class in January. I don't meditate but John does and it works for him. I use swimming or taking a walk as my form of meditation.
Another part of mindfulness is to do self-talk. That is when we feel stress by what someone else is doing or says. We have to realize that we are choosing to feel stress and that most of the time another person is not trying to harm us. Talking to ourselves or someone else about how we are reacting to someone else often helps to decrease or avoid this kind of stress. John and I use each other for this. For me, if It is John that I am allowing myself to feels stress about, I have to use the self talk and get myself out of his environment and into another place. This is when I go swim or walk or out of the house. Usually, after a short while we both cool off and can be in each other's company.
Part of my strategy is just the aging process and realizing that I don't want to live the few years I have left feeling angry or hurt or whatever negative feeling there is. I wish I had come to this realization at a younger age.
I think there are mindfulness training centers in most cities. I think doing the training is more helpful than reading a book. Of course DVDs or CDS would be good too.
Chloe, everyone....and specially U Carol:
Tai chi and chi gong (a sitting meditation) is CBT. It all deals with stress, anxiety, fear, adrenals, etc, etc.
But tai chi is better in that it is also a foot reflexology massage when you do its gentle movements....
Chloe, i don't know...forgot and Can't get posting privileges until Carol gets back to the swamp and lets me post a thread.
If you can do it for me...I posted it with Carol in mind on 9-21-13..was in mid sept.....i can copy and past it...but it won't be the same..and it will be to long i think.
Tai chi, along with the chi gong meditation, acupressure and chinese herbal teas....are all that one needs to get healthy, and maintain ones health....the added benefit of doing tai chi...or just the relaxing stretching exercises can't not be ......to my knowledge...be compared...for example:
Swimming uses about 60-65% of total body movement while tai chi uses 85%..
Carol and all....try this out.
Sit straight as you can on a chair...breath in from your abdomen real deeply through your nose if you can...then let you breath out slowly through the mouth...do this about 5-7 times....repeat this while doing it....let the mind relax, also the head, neck, shoulders, chest and back relax....all the while breathing deeply...let your awareness relax....and think of the sun directly above your head...when you think of an orb of light about your head.....direct those ray of light, right into any part of your that you want to...I direct it at my back pain, and it goes away, or a knee pain...
Cbt it exactly this...mind and body working together to form an energy source........that is me, SOLAR energy from the sun is free.....remember we are all made of everything that i s in the universe...so we call on our selves to heal ourselves........hey is that where they doctor heal thy self?.....later outa hear...and here also.....
Oh, and the first part of mind and body healing...is self awareness....and then followed up by self forgiveness....doesn;t matter how little of how big it is we need to forgive ourselves about..just that we do....today im going to forgive meslef for calling this guy out in calls today....jerk.....later gal-pals.....
that should have read:
so we all can heal our selves....wish that frigging sun would cure my bad spanglishingesssss
uno mas:
Check out todays bing picture/image:
it is a beautiful site of the rocker feller christmas tree......but to me...it can also create a great deal of anxiety with some people...
http://www.bing.com/
Jan, Thank you for doing such a good job explaining Mindfulness to us (I actually do think it's an extension of what Carol's new doctor friend is talking about... CBT).
I also agree with you, Jan, regarding your comment about the synchronicity Carol experienced on the plane, having the opportunity (and expounding on it) to meet that holistic doc. Hope you've given that a lot of thought, Carol... and taken time to feel grateful for it. Gratitude is the one emotion that will get us through just about anything we have to work our way through.
Don't forget, everything 'feeling' different... you being different, isn't 'necessarily' a bad thing. We always have to work with whatever it is we have. A rule of the Universe!
Solar, sorry I can't help you out, but I can't post anymore either. But for me, that's fine... I'm not sure I'd remember how to anyway post anyway. As a matter of fact, I prefer to just comment... so please don't add me to the list, Carol. Less responsibility. :)
I just found a very simplistic site that explained to basics behind the idea of Tai Chi in a way that even I can understand.
Tai Chi Internal Discipline: by Master Stephen Hwa
The concept and practice of the core element of classical Tai Chi, "Internal Discipline, is discussed extensively throughout the Tai Chi DVD by Master Stephen Hwa. A brief discussion is presented here:
Internal Discipline enables you to initiate movements from the internal core of the body (the abdomen and back) rather than from the external parts of the body (the limbs), and cultivates and mobilizes your internal energy for health benefits and martial arts applications."
http://www.classicaltaichi.com/internal-discipline.html
... my cat just put a hole in my mouse cord, so I'm off to do my errands and get a new one. Even though I'm on a laptop, I much prefer using a mouse. The wireless ones usually don't last long (for me), but I occasionally have a 'claw' problem with the wired ones... can't win!
... sorry for all the typos. Rushed and a bit stressed this morning.
Have a good day, everyone!
... ha, when aren't I stressed?
Chloe, stressed is my middle name. Wish it wasnt.
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