I just started making smoothies for one of my meals for weight loss and also for nutritional value needed. I also may be lactose intolerant. Therefore, this smoothie is made with soy milk.
I found it to taste more like the kiwi in it; so you'll have to like kiwi (like me). I enjoyed this one so much I am going to make an alternative by changing one of the fruits for more variety.
Caribbean Crush Smoothie
1 serving
3/4 cup plain soy milk
1/8 cup of lime juice
Half Mango; peeled, pitted and chopped
1 Kiwi, peeled and chopped
In blender combine soy milk, lime juice, mango and kiwi. Blend on low for thirty seconds; blend on high for an additional thirty seconds or until smooth. Enjoy.
I am going to substitute the Mango with a Papaya next.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Followup On Neck Nerve Injections:
Went back on the 18th of June for my second injection. This time I also needed a trigger point injection in the side of my neck. Somehow I had tweaked my neck according to the Specialist.
The trigger point injection was the same kind of Cortisone and Marcain mixture as the Specialist put into my neck between my vertebraes. However, with the trigger point injection it is not necessary to have to go to the Surgery Center in order to have them. The specialist told me I could get them at his office easily enough. They don't need x-rays taken like the nerve block injections. They palpate the site where the knot from your pulled muscle, or strain or whatever is and then they place the shot mixture into the site. There is no premedication of Marcain it is mixed into the shot. Therefore, it is a bit painful when injected. Then the site is massaged with pressure. This was uncomfortable yes. However, I noticed relief in the area within twenty-four hours. So it is a great way to get relief when it can be done.
As for the first Nerve Block Injection I had not noticed much pain relief, except for one week after the shot. After that my pain returned. The nurse who called me, to remind me of the Injection, stated that most people find the greatest relief after the second part of the shot is administered. Therefore, with great trepidation and hesitation I went forward with the second injection.
I still got a migraine as I did last time, however it only lasted about forty-two hours instead of seventy-seven hours as the last time. I also had a lot of aching and need for the Vicodin and heating pad for the first forty-five hours. The first time it lasted closer to seventy-four hours. Therefore, the side-effects for the second shot did not last as long as the first one. I am, at this moment, fairly comfortable with less aching in my neck and shoulders than I have been yet. I am hoping this feeling of relief continues.
I am to call and schedule an appointment with the Specialist anytime in two to four weeks. At the appointment we will determine whether or not to continue this therapy. It will depend on the amount of relief I seem to be getting. I will keep you posted.
The trigger point injection was the same kind of Cortisone and Marcain mixture as the Specialist put into my neck between my vertebraes. However, with the trigger point injection it is not necessary to have to go to the Surgery Center in order to have them. The specialist told me I could get them at his office easily enough. They don't need x-rays taken like the nerve block injections. They palpate the site where the knot from your pulled muscle, or strain or whatever is and then they place the shot mixture into the site. There is no premedication of Marcain it is mixed into the shot. Therefore, it is a bit painful when injected. Then the site is massaged with pressure. This was uncomfortable yes. However, I noticed relief in the area within twenty-four hours. So it is a great way to get relief when it can be done.
As for the first Nerve Block Injection I had not noticed much pain relief, except for one week after the shot. After that my pain returned. The nurse who called me, to remind me of the Injection, stated that most people find the greatest relief after the second part of the shot is administered. Therefore, with great trepidation and hesitation I went forward with the second injection.
I still got a migraine as I did last time, however it only lasted about forty-two hours instead of seventy-seven hours as the last time. I also had a lot of aching and need for the Vicodin and heating pad for the first forty-five hours. The first time it lasted closer to seventy-four hours. Therefore, the side-effects for the second shot did not last as long as the first one. I am, at this moment, fairly comfortable with less aching in my neck and shoulders than I have been yet. I am hoping this feeling of relief continues.
I am to call and schedule an appointment with the Specialist anytime in two to four weeks. At the appointment we will determine whether or not to continue this therapy. It will depend on the amount of relief I seem to be getting. I will keep you posted.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Check Out My Stuff On EBAY:
I just began selling on EBAY. I have a variety of things available and will still be adding more items as the days continue to go by. There's computer related materials, clothing and sports cards at the moment. I'll be adding more articles too, so check me out whenever you can. You can find me under Pamel1959. Hope you stop by.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Poet's Corner: Voyage Of The Ark
Behind the old man and his staff,
They entered the ark, two by two,
First came the antelope to giraffe,
Then came the birds of many hues.
Behind the hippo they did trail,
With the zebra being the last,
Now aboard it was time to sail,
They closed the door, raised the mast.
From the Heavens the rain just poured,
For forty days and forty nights,
Outside the wind whistled and roared,
Causing man and beast much fright.
From above, they heard the rain cease,
Looking outside, land was in sight,
Anxiously awaiting their release,
So ended their forty day plight.
They entered the ark, two by two,
First came the antelope to giraffe,
Then came the birds of many hues.
Behind the hippo they did trail,
With the zebra being the last,
Now aboard it was time to sail,
They closed the door, raised the mast.
From the Heavens the rain just poured,
For forty days and forty nights,
Outside the wind whistled and roared,
Causing man and beast much fright.
From above, they heard the rain cease,
Looking outside, land was in sight,
Anxiously awaiting their release,
So ended their forty day plight.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Houstan Death From Salmonellosis:
The CDC is currently investigating the death of a Houston woman, Wednesday, to determine if it is related to current raw tomato outbreak of Salmonella. The woman had an immuno-suppressed system as she had lymphoma.
There have been approximately, to date, one hundred and forty nine people infected from the Salmonella outbreak.
The Texas Board Of Health has determined that the source of the raw tomato outbreak is not from any tomatoes found in Texas. The Whole Foods grocery chain in Texas has however pulled the tomatoes off the shelves for the public's safety.
The CDC states the safest way to deal with tomatoes is not to buy the roma, round or pear-shaped tomatoes. The safe ones are homegrown, ones attached to the vine, grape and cherry tomatoes. However, if you already have the others don't eat them raw. If you cook them at one hundred and forty five degrees this will kill off the Salmonella germs. Also, please be careful in washing your hands before and after handling tomatoes. Keep tomatoes separate from all raw meat/seafood. Wash all cutting boards/utensils/countertops, that you use for cutting tomatoes, with hot soapy water, rinsing well afterwards. Also before cutting any other food.
Using can tomatoes is one of the safest options; some restaurants are beginning to use this option for the public's safety. One such restaurant includes Jack In The Box in California. To date only one person in California has been infected, it is believed she contracted it on a recent trip to Houstan though.
Seek medical attention if you suspect Salmonella poisoning. The symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, headache, stomach pain and occasional vomiting.
There have been approximately, to date, one hundred and forty nine people infected from the Salmonella outbreak.
The Texas Board Of Health has determined that the source of the raw tomato outbreak is not from any tomatoes found in Texas. The Whole Foods grocery chain in Texas has however pulled the tomatoes off the shelves for the public's safety.
The CDC states the safest way to deal with tomatoes is not to buy the roma, round or pear-shaped tomatoes. The safe ones are homegrown, ones attached to the vine, grape and cherry tomatoes. However, if you already have the others don't eat them raw. If you cook them at one hundred and forty five degrees this will kill off the Salmonella germs. Also, please be careful in washing your hands before and after handling tomatoes. Keep tomatoes separate from all raw meat/seafood. Wash all cutting boards/utensils/countertops, that you use for cutting tomatoes, with hot soapy water, rinsing well afterwards. Also before cutting any other food.
Using can tomatoes is one of the safest options; some restaurants are beginning to use this option for the public's safety. One such restaurant includes Jack In The Box in California. To date only one person in California has been infected, it is believed she contracted it on a recent trip to Houstan though.
Seek medical attention if you suspect Salmonella poisoning. The symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, headache, stomach pain and occasional vomiting.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Update Of Tomatoes And Salmonella:
With all the testing that has been so far they have found three varieties of tomatoes are linked to Salmonella poisoning. These are the the roma/plum tomatoe and the round red variety.
The salmonella seems to be linked to the skin of the tomatoes and once sliced/cut the salmonella enters the inside of the tomatoe making it easier to get sick from it. The varieties, at this time, that seem safest are homegrown, cherry and grape tomatoes and the varieties that still have the vine attatched. If you are going to eat tomatoes than remember to wash them well before slicing them, then wash your hands with an anitbacterial soap. The best way to do this is to use a vegetable and fruit wash.
There is a great fruit and vegetable wash that is know to be economically safe for the enviroment too. It is known as CleanGreens. It cleans off pesticides, animal waste, organic fertilizers, toxic residues from other chemicals from produce that's not organic. It's great for both organic and non-organic produce. Another wash that's great for cleaning produce without harming the enviroment and is biodegradable is Vegiwash. It cleans the dirt, pesticides, fungicide, waxes, oil, and herbicide residues. There are many other fruit and vegetable washes available also. I have put their links below.
What it boils down to is that many growers still use pesticides, eventhough they rinse them prior to sending them to market, many times the rinse water is not emptied and often enough thus it is just not cleaning off the produce that goes to restaurants and consumers. Thus, we continue to get produce like tomatoes now, and spinach last year that is causing us to get ill. The only protection we have is at home when we implement the use of a fruit and vegetable wash into our daily routine. This reduces our risk of contracting diseases and illnesses due to the produce industry.
Even organic produce can become infected by the use of organic fertilizer, because the fertilizer is a by-product of worm or cricket poop and some are even a by-product of fish meal. All this is exposure to animal by-products. It doesn't mean that organic fertilizer isn't much safer than commercial brands that include herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. All it means is that for your health all your produce whether organic or non-organic should be rinsed in a fruit and vegetable rinse. This is your family's best protection against possible illness such as Salmonella. Let's give our families the best and safest fruit and vegetables. The recent Salmonella outbreak in tomatoes should wake us up to the fact that we need to better rinse the produce we eat. Happy eating.
fit
webvitaminscitrusmagic
omegaenvironne
The salmonella seems to be linked to the skin of the tomatoes and once sliced/cut the salmonella enters the inside of the tomatoe making it easier to get sick from it. The varieties, at this time, that seem safest are homegrown, cherry and grape tomatoes and the varieties that still have the vine attatched. If you are going to eat tomatoes than remember to wash them well before slicing them, then wash your hands with an anitbacterial soap. The best way to do this is to use a vegetable and fruit wash.
There is a great fruit and vegetable wash that is know to be economically safe for the enviroment too. It is known as CleanGreens. It cleans off pesticides, animal waste, organic fertilizers, toxic residues from other chemicals from produce that's not organic. It's great for both organic and non-organic produce. Another wash that's great for cleaning produce without harming the enviroment and is biodegradable is Vegiwash. It cleans the dirt, pesticides, fungicide, waxes, oil, and herbicide residues. There are many other fruit and vegetable washes available also. I have put their links below.
What it boils down to is that many growers still use pesticides, eventhough they rinse them prior to sending them to market, many times the rinse water is not emptied and often enough thus it is just not cleaning off the produce that goes to restaurants and consumers. Thus, we continue to get produce like tomatoes now, and spinach last year that is causing us to get ill. The only protection we have is at home when we implement the use of a fruit and vegetable wash into our daily routine. This reduces our risk of contracting diseases and illnesses due to the produce industry.
Even organic produce can become infected by the use of organic fertilizer, because the fertilizer is a by-product of worm or cricket poop and some are even a by-product of fish meal. All this is exposure to animal by-products. It doesn't mean that organic fertilizer isn't much safer than commercial brands that include herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. All it means is that for your health all your produce whether organic or non-organic should be rinsed in a fruit and vegetable rinse. This is your family's best protection against possible illness such as Salmonella. Let's give our families the best and safest fruit and vegetables. The recent Salmonella outbreak in tomatoes should wake us up to the fact that we need to better rinse the produce we eat. Happy eating.
fit
webvitaminscitrusmagic
omegaenvironne
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Tomatoes Cause Salmonella Poisoning
About nine states so far have had Salmonella outbreaks. These nine states are: New Mexico, Texas, Idaho, Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Illinois, Kansas, and Indiana. The common thread of the patients seem to be consumption of fresh tomatoes either at restaurants or grocery stores. Which type of tomato has yet to be determined. Neither has it been determined yet as to where the source is from. Thus leaving us to wonder if the red juicy beefsteak or roma tomato may possibly make us ill. Or if it is another culprit altogether.
It is known that after the ingestion of whatever unknown type of tomato. That if you have gotten a bad tomato; a Salmonella carrier, that you can begin to see signs of illness anytime between twelve to seventy-two hours. The symptoms are: diarrhea, cramping, and fever. Salmonella lasts from four to seven days.
People infected with Salmonella can actually get better without any type of medical intervention. However, some elderly, children and those with immuno-suppressed systems need to seek medical treatment. Due to the fact that those people are at a higher risk of complications like infections; in some of these cases there is a possible increase of hospitalization. Death can occur, however, at this time nobody has died. So be wary before you consider that tomato. If you do go ahead and eat tomatoes than by all means watch your health vigilantly. In the event you get any of the symptoms above please seek medical attention.
It is known that after the ingestion of whatever unknown type of tomato. That if you have gotten a bad tomato; a Salmonella carrier, that you can begin to see signs of illness anytime between twelve to seventy-two hours. The symptoms are: diarrhea, cramping, and fever. Salmonella lasts from four to seven days.
People infected with Salmonella can actually get better without any type of medical intervention. However, some elderly, children and those with immuno-suppressed systems need to seek medical treatment. Due to the fact that those people are at a higher risk of complications like infections; in some of these cases there is a possible increase of hospitalization. Death can occur, however, at this time nobody has died. So be wary before you consider that tomato. If you do go ahead and eat tomatoes than by all means watch your health vigilantly. In the event you get any of the symptoms above please seek medical attention.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Celebrating Dad On Father's Day:
Celebrating Dad
Father's Day is about remembering Dad and all the sacrifices he made for the family. Remember all those hours he worked overtime when you were young? You missed him and didn't understand. Yet, when Christmas came around we had a fresh cut pine standing in the living room. The house was warm as the family decorated the tree. Then come Christmas morning we'd at least receive one or two of our most coveted gifts. Dad/Father/Padre whatever you call him (the man who raised you) made some of your wishes come true. Remember the evening horseback rides or wrestling with him? The times your family would cram into the family vehicle and go for a Sunday ride without knowing where you'd end up. Sometimes he'd even get you lost, if you were going somewhere special, however even then you'd discover something new or some exciting new place to eat. The picnics, camping trips, fishing and learning to swim in the lake all spent/supervised by good ole Dad. These were all made possible by his hard work and overtime pay.
Now it's time to remember Dad by showing him appreciation for all he did/does do. That's the real meaning of Father's Day. To celebrate Dad for all those memories, gifts, his help in completing a school science fair project/or with your math homework. The times you needed him when your dog got run over by a car or you broke-down in your car and he came to your rescue. Dad's are known to be our heroes; silent heroes who never ask for nothing in return. So don't forget this is how Dads show love in their own special way. Most Dads aren't too sentimental in their early years, however they become a little more so as time ages them.
If you are wondering what to get for him on Father's Day here are a few suggestions:
1) Gift Cards to his favorite store; Sportsman's Warehouse, Home Depot, Lowe's, Ace Hardware, Sears (for those Craftsman tools many men love). Or even to his favorite restaurant; after all what man doesn't like to eat. Also, giving a gift card is easier than mailing a package at today's shipping costs (and what if he doesn't like what you picked out?-he'll keep it anyways in his closet; never using it. What a shame). You can make it even more special by making his Father's Day card yourself. Therefore, you are giving him two gifts.
2) You can have a family barbecue in his honor. Just let him sit back and relax in the sunshine and fresh air; while you do all the grilling and cooking. More than likely, if there are grandkids that's where you'll find him; playing games or entertaining them. Don't forget to make "his favorite foods" for this special day.
3) If you want to really give a gift with a package and bow then most Dads have a need for new tools. Tools are different in everybody's hobbies/careers. There are tools for drafting, mechanics, woodworking, cabinetry, sculpting, model shipbuilding, gardening, and home remodeling. You see where I'm coming from? Be sure that whatever career or hobby your Father has that he doesn't already have that particular tool. Unless it is a better one than he has already. Be sure to fit the tool to your Father and to make it one he will use. Or if you Dad is a sports enthusiast or goes golfing, fishing, hunting, roller-blading, biking, ect.; you can get him something related to that sport. Try and use the concept of something he needs/wants in this area. It could be an autographed football by Brett Favre, tickets to the next basketball game, a special edition autographed copy of a book by Sports Celebrity he really likes.
4) If you are an only child or your siblings live faraway, and can't spend Father's Day with Dad, then just the two of you do something together. This can range from going to the golf course, fishing, playing billiards, to a rodeo/car show/races or other sporting event. Make it special, take a few pictures to record the event. Later put these pictures in a photo frame and give it to him as a reminder of the day you spent together.
5) Photos of grandchildren are a definite hit with Dad's. You could design a collage by making a tree with branches leading to each child's photograph. Remember to put the name, birth date and date of picture either below it or next to it. If you have siblings with kids be sure to get photos of them as well. This way you could include pictures of all Dad's grandchildren; thus, creating a piece of family history he will treasure. Maybe your siblings could help make it too so it can be from all of you.
6) Handmade cards; you can add little treasures from special outings with Dad as you were growing up. Which could be anything from a seashell collected in the family trip to Hawaii to ticket stubs from a Yankee game, or even a concert program in which Dad came to see you in.
Most of all, remember to honor your Dad with showing him you love him and appreciate all he did for you. If you have a problem with communicating with him than this may be the right time to reach out and either forgive him or tell him you're sorry. He is only human and he loves you even if he doesn't say it. He speaks it with his heart when he worked hard to get the things you needed/wanted (even if you didn't get everything you wanted he did try). Dads are that way; they are warriors and heroes who don't show as much emotion as Moms. That's what makes him your hero; did you know that? It's because he was fearless in the face of all those monsters under your bed, held unto you during a tornado and calmed your fears after your nightmare. Celebrate him with love, even if you are faraway at least call. If your Dad is passed away then remember all those times you had with him on this day; honor his memory and toast him for the man he was/what he did and accomplished. Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there.
Father's Day is about remembering Dad and all the sacrifices he made for the family. Remember all those hours he worked overtime when you were young? You missed him and didn't understand. Yet, when Christmas came around we had a fresh cut pine standing in the living room. The house was warm as the family decorated the tree. Then come Christmas morning we'd at least receive one or two of our most coveted gifts. Dad/Father/Padre whatever you call him (the man who raised you) made some of your wishes come true. Remember the evening horseback rides or wrestling with him? The times your family would cram into the family vehicle and go for a Sunday ride without knowing where you'd end up. Sometimes he'd even get you lost, if you were going somewhere special, however even then you'd discover something new or some exciting new place to eat. The picnics, camping trips, fishing and learning to swim in the lake all spent/supervised by good ole Dad. These were all made possible by his hard work and overtime pay.
Now it's time to remember Dad by showing him appreciation for all he did/does do. That's the real meaning of Father's Day. To celebrate Dad for all those memories, gifts, his help in completing a school science fair project/or with your math homework. The times you needed him when your dog got run over by a car or you broke-down in your car and he came to your rescue. Dad's are known to be our heroes; silent heroes who never ask for nothing in return. So don't forget this is how Dads show love in their own special way. Most Dads aren't too sentimental in their early years, however they become a little more so as time ages them.
If you are wondering what to get for him on Father's Day here are a few suggestions:
1) Gift Cards to his favorite store; Sportsman's Warehouse, Home Depot, Lowe's, Ace Hardware, Sears (for those Craftsman tools many men love). Or even to his favorite restaurant; after all what man doesn't like to eat. Also, giving a gift card is easier than mailing a package at today's shipping costs (and what if he doesn't like what you picked out?-he'll keep it anyways in his closet; never using it. What a shame). You can make it even more special by making his Father's Day card yourself. Therefore, you are giving him two gifts.
2) You can have a family barbecue in his honor. Just let him sit back and relax in the sunshine and fresh air; while you do all the grilling and cooking. More than likely, if there are grandkids that's where you'll find him; playing games or entertaining them. Don't forget to make "his favorite foods" for this special day.
3) If you want to really give a gift with a package and bow then most Dads have a need for new tools. Tools are different in everybody's hobbies/careers. There are tools for drafting, mechanics, woodworking, cabinetry, sculpting, model shipbuilding, gardening, and home remodeling. You see where I'm coming from? Be sure that whatever career or hobby your Father has that he doesn't already have that particular tool. Unless it is a better one than he has already. Be sure to fit the tool to your Father and to make it one he will use. Or if you Dad is a sports enthusiast or goes golfing, fishing, hunting, roller-blading, biking, ect.; you can get him something related to that sport. Try and use the concept of something he needs/wants in this area. It could be an autographed football by Brett Favre, tickets to the next basketball game, a special edition autographed copy of a book by Sports Celebrity he really likes.
4) If you are an only child or your siblings live faraway, and can't spend Father's Day with Dad, then just the two of you do something together. This can range from going to the golf course, fishing, playing billiards, to a rodeo/car show/races or other sporting event. Make it special, take a few pictures to record the event. Later put these pictures in a photo frame and give it to him as a reminder of the day you spent together.
5) Photos of grandchildren are a definite hit with Dad's. You could design a collage by making a tree with branches leading to each child's photograph. Remember to put the name, birth date and date of picture either below it or next to it. If you have siblings with kids be sure to get photos of them as well. This way you could include pictures of all Dad's grandchildren; thus, creating a piece of family history he will treasure. Maybe your siblings could help make it too so it can be from all of you.
6) Handmade cards; you can add little treasures from special outings with Dad as you were growing up. Which could be anything from a seashell collected in the family trip to Hawaii to ticket stubs from a Yankee game, or even a concert program in which Dad came to see you in.
Most of all, remember to honor your Dad with showing him you love him and appreciate all he did for you. If you have a problem with communicating with him than this may be the right time to reach out and either forgive him or tell him you're sorry. He is only human and he loves you even if he doesn't say it. He speaks it with his heart when he worked hard to get the things you needed/wanted (even if you didn't get everything you wanted he did try). Dads are that way; they are warriors and heroes who don't show as much emotion as Moms. That's what makes him your hero; did you know that? It's because he was fearless in the face of all those monsters under your bed, held unto you during a tornado and calmed your fears after your nightmare. Celebrate him with love, even if you are faraway at least call. If your Dad is passed away then remember all those times you had with him on this day; honor his memory and toast him for the man he was/what he did and accomplished. Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Experiencing Nerve Block Injections:
It was my decision my husband told me, after the doctor explained the procedure and risks involved. I was considering having nerve block injections of cortisone for my neck pain. Since over twelve years ago, due to a motor vehicle accident (MVA), I had a C5/C6 fusion. A fusion is where they place a piece of bone, from a cadaver (deceased donor), into the body to replace the one that is broken, ruptured, herniated or otherwise damaged. The fusion has held well over the years, I've been in three other MVA's without any further damage to it.
However, a fusion is when bones fuse/meld together to where they can no longer bend. This constricts some of the person's movement to that area. Therefore, the other joints in my neck have had to take some additional stress creating now some herniation in the above and below discs of the neck. This in turn has caused even more pain in and around my area of fusion. Thus even some numbness and tingling coupled with pain has preceded down my neck, shoulders and into both arms. This all caused me to seek pain relief from a specialist.
My specialist informed me that due to my fusion that reduces my chances by about twenty to thirty percent of the injections success rate. However, being that the success rate is still sixty to seventy percent with minimal risks I weigh my choice of whether I want to go ahead or continue in pain. My biggest risk is a headache which I will more than likely get due to my history of migraines anyways. I will also have some pain for one to two days, which is normal, before relief begins. There is a three percent risk of the specialist accidentally hitting the spinal column and thus breaking the membrane to where spinal fluid will leak causing me a spinal headache.
I had a spinal headache once in my life following a spinal tap and it was far worse than my migraines. The only way to relieve it is to go back exactly into the same spot, puncture site, and inject your blood (which they draw from your arm) into it. It's called a blood patch and this patch will actually rid you of the spinal headache within five minutes with no side affects or anything. It was truly amazing, I've never had a migraine that's been totally relieved like that spinal headache was--however spinal headaches are not fun at all and I never want one again if possible. Therefore, this was my worst fear. Yet, the specialist informed me he'd only had three cases of hitting the spinal fluid himself, which was a bit reassuring.
I decide to go ahead with the nerve block procedure. The specialist informs me that there will be a series of two procedures performed a few weeks apart. One month following the second procedure we will do a follow up to see if there has been any relief and if it is significant to continue with this treatment. If we continue then we will try and find a treatment plan that fits my body. Some people need to have it done every three months while others only every six months. I'm scheduled and given my instructions to stay off blood thinners and aspirin, motrin, ect. for one week prior to the procedure. Of course I have to have someone to drive me home too. However, I can eat prior to this I am told--that's good news.
The day arrives, I'm too nervous to eat too much in the morning. My husband and I arrive at the Surgery Center and do all the normal paperwork required. I'm taken back, my husband is allowed to accompany for a short time. We talk once more to the specialist who answers any questions and goes into details how the procedure will proceed. Since I am allergic to dye they will not be able to inject the iodine dye that the do prior to placing the nerve block injections. However, the doctor is confident that he will have no problems locating the area without the dye. I'm given a gown and am told only to disrobe from the waist up. I also put on a surgical head cover along with surgical shoe covers over my shoes.
I am led from the room into the operation room. I am told to lie on my stomach, they place my chin on a rest and my forehead on a pillow rest also. This leaves my mouth/nose area hanging in the open with a cloth just draped below the area. This enables the specialist full access to my neck area to where he will be placing the injections. I am not given a general anaesthesia. Therefore, I am fully awake during the entire procedure. The attending nurse then proceeds to cleanse the area with Hebicleanse since I am allergic to betadine. The doctor then informs me he will begin by giving me injections at varying levels of depths to numb me prior to the initial cortisone injection. The first injection of lidocaine is given about about a quarter of an inch into my skin to begin numbing me. They get a few other things ready as I lie there for about three minutes before another injection is given about an inch deeper. I breath through the pain. Within minutes the specialist informs me he will be injecting the cortisone and some pain medication with it. I feel pressure and still some stinging as it is injected into my neck, therefore I breath through it again. About a minute later I am told that the procedure is over and to continue to lie still until the nurse is done cleaning my neck and applying a band aid. Afterwards, I sit up, it is then I become dizzy. Which I am told is sometimes common from the medication and lying on one's stomach. The doctor shows me a x-ray he took of where he placed the injection. Says I did well and goes to speak with my husband.
I go get my upper clothes back on and am given instructions to call the next day. I meet my husband in the waiting room, he has a copy of patient instructions on what I can and can't do for the next few days. We return home. In a few hours the lidocaine wears off and I am in terrible pain. The instructions say to apply a heating pad or ice to the area for twenty minutes then take off for up to one hour. I am not to take any aspirin, motrin or anti-inflammatory for four hours following the procedure (these they have had me off of for one week prior). Therefore, I still have an hour before I can take anything like that so I apply the heating pad. It helps with the pain, I am relieved. When time comes I still require more pain relief and take two aspirin (I am allergic to tylenol and can't take motrin due to it affects my liver). I continue over the whole night and next day with the heating pad and aspirin for controlling my pain. It is a common occurrence for cortisone injections to cause flare ups for 24-48 hrs following the injection. I wonder will it be worth it?
It has now been one week since the injection, I have had some relief. Not a significant amount by far. However, the specialist did tell me I would not know if it would work or not for sure until after the second procedure. I am scheduled to go back on June 18th. Then I will see the doctor a month later, this gives the cortisone time to do it's work. At my appointment we will discuss whether or not it is working for me and if I should continue with this therapy or not. It was as painful for me as was giving birth. However, if I can actually find relief at least by sixty percent from the constant pain it will be worth it. I think I could endure doing it as often as every three months if it meant so little pain for me to endure. Especially since it only lasted a few minutes, followed by two days of worse pain. This has been my experience so far. I will let you know how things progress.
However, a fusion is when bones fuse/meld together to where they can no longer bend. This constricts some of the person's movement to that area. Therefore, the other joints in my neck have had to take some additional stress creating now some herniation in the above and below discs of the neck. This in turn has caused even more pain in and around my area of fusion. Thus even some numbness and tingling coupled with pain has preceded down my neck, shoulders and into both arms. This all caused me to seek pain relief from a specialist.
My specialist informed me that due to my fusion that reduces my chances by about twenty to thirty percent of the injections success rate. However, being that the success rate is still sixty to seventy percent with minimal risks I weigh my choice of whether I want to go ahead or continue in pain. My biggest risk is a headache which I will more than likely get due to my history of migraines anyways. I will also have some pain for one to two days, which is normal, before relief begins. There is a three percent risk of the specialist accidentally hitting the spinal column and thus breaking the membrane to where spinal fluid will leak causing me a spinal headache.
I had a spinal headache once in my life following a spinal tap and it was far worse than my migraines. The only way to relieve it is to go back exactly into the same spot, puncture site, and inject your blood (which they draw from your arm) into it. It's called a blood patch and this patch will actually rid you of the spinal headache within five minutes with no side affects or anything. It was truly amazing, I've never had a migraine that's been totally relieved like that spinal headache was--however spinal headaches are not fun at all and I never want one again if possible. Therefore, this was my worst fear. Yet, the specialist informed me he'd only had three cases of hitting the spinal fluid himself, which was a bit reassuring.
I decide to go ahead with the nerve block procedure. The specialist informs me that there will be a series of two procedures performed a few weeks apart. One month following the second procedure we will do a follow up to see if there has been any relief and if it is significant to continue with this treatment. If we continue then we will try and find a treatment plan that fits my body. Some people need to have it done every three months while others only every six months. I'm scheduled and given my instructions to stay off blood thinners and aspirin, motrin, ect. for one week prior to the procedure. Of course I have to have someone to drive me home too. However, I can eat prior to this I am told--that's good news.
The day arrives, I'm too nervous to eat too much in the morning. My husband and I arrive at the Surgery Center and do all the normal paperwork required. I'm taken back, my husband is allowed to accompany for a short time. We talk once more to the specialist who answers any questions and goes into details how the procedure will proceed. Since I am allergic to dye they will not be able to inject the iodine dye that the do prior to placing the nerve block injections. However, the doctor is confident that he will have no problems locating the area without the dye. I'm given a gown and am told only to disrobe from the waist up. I also put on a surgical head cover along with surgical shoe covers over my shoes.
I am led from the room into the operation room. I am told to lie on my stomach, they place my chin on a rest and my forehead on a pillow rest also. This leaves my mouth/nose area hanging in the open with a cloth just draped below the area. This enables the specialist full access to my neck area to where he will be placing the injections. I am not given a general anaesthesia. Therefore, I am fully awake during the entire procedure. The attending nurse then proceeds to cleanse the area with Hebicleanse since I am allergic to betadine. The doctor then informs me he will begin by giving me injections at varying levels of depths to numb me prior to the initial cortisone injection. The first injection of lidocaine is given about about a quarter of an inch into my skin to begin numbing me. They get a few other things ready as I lie there for about three minutes before another injection is given about an inch deeper. I breath through the pain. Within minutes the specialist informs me he will be injecting the cortisone and some pain medication with it. I feel pressure and still some stinging as it is injected into my neck, therefore I breath through it again. About a minute later I am told that the procedure is over and to continue to lie still until the nurse is done cleaning my neck and applying a band aid. Afterwards, I sit up, it is then I become dizzy. Which I am told is sometimes common from the medication and lying on one's stomach. The doctor shows me a x-ray he took of where he placed the injection. Says I did well and goes to speak with my husband.
I go get my upper clothes back on and am given instructions to call the next day. I meet my husband in the waiting room, he has a copy of patient instructions on what I can and can't do for the next few days. We return home. In a few hours the lidocaine wears off and I am in terrible pain. The instructions say to apply a heating pad or ice to the area for twenty minutes then take off for up to one hour. I am not to take any aspirin, motrin or anti-inflammatory for four hours following the procedure (these they have had me off of for one week prior). Therefore, I still have an hour before I can take anything like that so I apply the heating pad. It helps with the pain, I am relieved. When time comes I still require more pain relief and take two aspirin (I am allergic to tylenol and can't take motrin due to it affects my liver). I continue over the whole night and next day with the heating pad and aspirin for controlling my pain. It is a common occurrence for cortisone injections to cause flare ups for 24-48 hrs following the injection. I wonder will it be worth it?
It has now been one week since the injection, I have had some relief. Not a significant amount by far. However, the specialist did tell me I would not know if it would work or not for sure until after the second procedure. I am scheduled to go back on June 18th. Then I will see the doctor a month later, this gives the cortisone time to do it's work. At my appointment we will discuss whether or not it is working for me and if I should continue with this therapy or not. It was as painful for me as was giving birth. However, if I can actually find relief at least by sixty percent from the constant pain it will be worth it. I think I could endure doing it as often as every three months if it meant so little pain for me to endure. Especially since it only lasted a few minutes, followed by two days of worse pain. This has been my experience so far. I will let you know how things progress.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Idaho Spud King Dies:
J.R. Simplot had achieved his ambitions during his long life of ninety-nine years. He became known as the Spud King here in Idaho. For a lad at fourteen years old leaving Iowa and starting out alone in a new state, Idaho, he had a vision and took aim to pursue it.
In 1923 J.R. arrived in Idaho and began working in the potato sorting workhouses. He then took his money, eighty dollars and put it into hogs in which he kept all winter, selling them for $7,500 after fattening them up. With this money he bought a electric potato sorter and managed to buy/build thirty to thirty three potato warehouses beginning in Idaho Falls, Idaho. This was the beginning of the Simplot Potato (now Food) Manufacturing Company, which is still in operation throughout Idaho today. He continued to invest in other ventures as he saw they would also help his current trend in food processing. He bought timberland to make wooden boxes for his potatoes, he also bought a fertilizer company to provide fertilizer to grow the potatoes. A phosphorous company also, as phosphorous is a key element that is included in many of today's products that range from food, fertilizer to cleaning products. His expansion didn't quite end there as he also bought a cattle ranch. J.R. Simplot was a man of large vision and one who understood that in order to make the best dollar you had to have most of the materials at the cheapest prices. In order to have your materials at the cheapest prices it is easier if you own them or manufacture them yourself, now that's what I call a visionary or a scholarly man. He did this and at the same time provided jobs for many local Idahoans.
One of the most prominent things J.R. Simplot will be forever remembered for is making the french fry commercial to the fast food industry. In the 1960's J.R. introduced the first frozen french fry to McDonald's Ray Kroc. Today Simplot Foods still provide McDonald's with over a third of their fries along with other fast food chains such as Wendy's and Burger King. It was a known fact, up until his recent death, that every week J.R. could be seen driving up to a McDonald's for fries or hash browns (both of them supplied by his company).
In the 1980's J.R. was one of the first people to invest in the little known Boise company of Micron. They were just barely starting out and having a bit of trouble in the beginning and he helped them out, thus investing in stock at that time. Today it is estimated that the investment that he kept in Micron is about 250 million dollars in value. Before his death Simplot was estimated to be worth over three and a half billion dollars.
Mr. Simplot sure had a great aptitude for knowledge of the business world for starting out in it at fourteen. Wouldn't you agree? That only goes to show us that with a lot of hard work and continued endurance what someone can accomplish. Remember, he didn't come from a family of means but made his own way in this world with barely anything to begin with. He worked hard and was honest in his work and with those with whom he dealt. No wonder he made such an impression in not only the Business world but also the Political world in Idaho and beyond. My best wishes go out to his family that are left behind. I hope that his hard work ethics will be instilled and kept in practice for future generations in memory of this great man known as the "Spud King."
In 1923 J.R. arrived in Idaho and began working in the potato sorting workhouses. He then took his money, eighty dollars and put it into hogs in which he kept all winter, selling them for $7,500 after fattening them up. With this money he bought a electric potato sorter and managed to buy/build thirty to thirty three potato warehouses beginning in Idaho Falls, Idaho. This was the beginning of the Simplot Potato (now Food) Manufacturing Company, which is still in operation throughout Idaho today. He continued to invest in other ventures as he saw they would also help his current trend in food processing. He bought timberland to make wooden boxes for his potatoes, he also bought a fertilizer company to provide fertilizer to grow the potatoes. A phosphorous company also, as phosphorous is a key element that is included in many of today's products that range from food, fertilizer to cleaning products. His expansion didn't quite end there as he also bought a cattle ranch. J.R. Simplot was a man of large vision and one who understood that in order to make the best dollar you had to have most of the materials at the cheapest prices. In order to have your materials at the cheapest prices it is easier if you own them or manufacture them yourself, now that's what I call a visionary or a scholarly man. He did this and at the same time provided jobs for many local Idahoans.
One of the most prominent things J.R. Simplot will be forever remembered for is making the french fry commercial to the fast food industry. In the 1960's J.R. introduced the first frozen french fry to McDonald's Ray Kroc. Today Simplot Foods still provide McDonald's with over a third of their fries along with other fast food chains such as Wendy's and Burger King. It was a known fact, up until his recent death, that every week J.R. could be seen driving up to a McDonald's for fries or hash browns (both of them supplied by his company).
In the 1980's J.R. was one of the first people to invest in the little known Boise company of Micron. They were just barely starting out and having a bit of trouble in the beginning and he helped them out, thus investing in stock at that time. Today it is estimated that the investment that he kept in Micron is about 250 million dollars in value. Before his death Simplot was estimated to be worth over three and a half billion dollars.
Mr. Simplot sure had a great aptitude for knowledge of the business world for starting out in it at fourteen. Wouldn't you agree? That only goes to show us that with a lot of hard work and continued endurance what someone can accomplish. Remember, he didn't come from a family of means but made his own way in this world with barely anything to begin with. He worked hard and was honest in his work and with those with whom he dealt. No wonder he made such an impression in not only the Business world but also the Political world in Idaho and beyond. My best wishes go out to his family that are left behind. I hope that his hard work ethics will be instilled and kept in practice for future generations in memory of this great man known as the "Spud King."
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Crock Pot Cherry Cobbler:
We like this easy to make cherry cobbler with one exception I generally find the original recipe does not have enough filling so I add extra. It is your choice though so I put it in parenthesis for you if you decide to make it the same as I do.
Makes 6 servings
21 ounce can of low-fat cherry pie filling (I use two cans)
1 cup flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup low fat milk (I use carb countdown milk)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/4 tsp salt (I use sea salt without iodine)
Heavily grease the crock pot. Pour pie filling into bottom. Combine, in bowl, remaining ingredients. Beat until smooth. Spread over pie filling.
Cover crock pot and cook on high for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Makes 6 servings
21 ounce can of low-fat cherry pie filling (I use two cans)
1 cup flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup low fat milk (I use carb countdown milk)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/4 tsp salt (I use sea salt without iodine)
Heavily grease the crock pot. Pour pie filling into bottom. Combine, in bowl, remaining ingredients. Beat until smooth. Spread over pie filling.
Cover crock pot and cook on high for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Help Stop Global Warming Here:
If you are interested in doing something, even in a small way, to help lessen the impact of global warming visit this site:
Help stop global warming by offsetting one pound of carbon emissions - for free! When you click this link, Care2 makes a donation to offset one pound of carbon emissions, every day that you click.
Carbon, and other greenhouse gases, released into the air by power plants and cars
contribute to global warming.
Each day, you can take a small step in slowing global warming by offsetting some of your emissions. Forward this message to your friends to help offset even more!
Simply go to the site and click on the "Offset One Pound Carbon" button.
It takes one second. Remember, you're only allowed one click per day, so tell everyone you know!
Just click: stopglobalwarming
Help stop global warming by offsetting one pound of carbon emissions - for free! When you click this link, Care2 makes a donation to offset one pound of carbon emissions, every day that you click.
Carbon, and other greenhouse gases, released into the air by power plants and cars
contribute to global warming.
Each day, you can take a small step in slowing global warming by offsetting some of your emissions. Forward this message to your friends to help offset even more!
Simply go to the site and click on the "Offset One Pound Carbon" button.
It takes one second. Remember, you're only allowed one click per day, so tell everyone you know!
Just click: stopglobalwarming
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Craft Donations Needed For Autism:
I am all for giving Autism a helping hand and will be sending some knitted items to this benefit. Therefore, I offered to post the information about the need for donation for the raffle on my website. It is a great cause, as Autism is affecting many of our children each year. If you are someone who is a crafter please consider giving to this worthwhile event. If not, maybe you will be willing to buy some of the items that will be listed in the story ( I will post that information when the time comes). pamel
Autism Awareness Project
My 24 yr old nephew is trying to raise Autism awareness by doing a yearly drag race benefit (he's already got most of the approvals) and the first awareness race is scheduled for late next month. Brian is now working on getting the necessary permits and approvals to hold a raffle at the event(s) and I have agreed to help him get donations of homemade items for the raffle (I’m I crazy or what? J ). Even if he can't get the permits/authorization for this year’s race, Brian shouldn’t have any problems for the following year’s race. For the smaller items that might not be suitable for the raffle or if Brian isn’t able to get the necessary approvals in time, all items will be sold in my Etsy store with 100% going to the Autism Foundation.
How can you help?
This looks like it’s going to be an ongoing project so donations of any finished homemade goodies will be greatly appreciated. If you would like to donate to this great cause please let me know. I can be emailed at Bnewns@csudh.edu
Thanks…
Bea
Autism Awareness Project
My 24 yr old nephew is trying to raise Autism awareness by doing a yearly drag race benefit (he's already got most of the approvals) and the first awareness race is scheduled for late next month. Brian is now working on getting the necessary permits and approvals to hold a raffle at the event(s) and I have agreed to help him get donations of homemade items for the raffle (I’m I crazy or what? J ). Even if he can't get the permits/authorization for this year’s race, Brian shouldn’t have any problems for the following year’s race. For the smaller items that might not be suitable for the raffle or if Brian isn’t able to get the necessary approvals in time, all items will be sold in my Etsy store with 100% going to the Autism Foundation.
How can you help?
This looks like it’s going to be an ongoing project so donations of any finished homemade goodies will be greatly appreciated. If you would like to donate to this great cause please let me know. I can be emailed at Bnewns@csudh.edu
Thanks…
Bea
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