April 17, 2017 - Msg 107306: Happy Easter to all you fine porchsters! :)
I pray for you daily, and PH, we will now
send up a few extra for you! Sure hope things get better real soon. Your post made me cross my legs,
especially the part about the camera! ha
May they get them all out and the stent and you're back on your feet quickly.

ALL- Thanks for your prayers regarding my sinuses, and please keep them
up as we are having more high pollen days AND
high pollution days coming up this week! Ugh!
BUT...Jesus is Risen, Alleluia!
MDC
April 17, 2017 - Msg 107307: SWISH!
April 17, 2017 - Msg 107308: Hope you all had a good Easter Sunday. Ours was pretty laid back and enjoyable. Bruce barbequed chicken and it was so good. Susan brought the best pinto beans I have ever tasted and her potato salad. Chocolate cake for dessert. Emily had a little egg hunt/scavenger hunt that Susan put together for her. It was just really a nice time with family. Our gatherings have gotten smaller as we have lost family members through death and divorce, but things are getting easier and more casual, which works well for us. Susan turns 60 next month so we aren't spring chickens anymore. :) We did have a friend come by in the evening, who is a single divorced dad. He has a daughter Erin's age, who is one of Erin's best friends, and a young son. The family has been through so much since Mom ran off with a younger man and abandoned them a year ago. The girl looks to me as a mother sometimes. She just longs for a mother's love and she is a sweet, sweet child. They attend our church but Dad is still in a rebellious phase, of sorts and has been drinking too much. He seems happier, though, since he finally let go and accepted that his wife has moved on and so must he.

Well, it has been raining here this morning and is fairly cool. I had my coffee out on the porch for awhile before taking Erin to school. Tomorrow I drive her to San Antonio to see the specialist about her ICR (the deterioration of her jaw bone).

Not much else to talk about...thank all of you for your continued prayers, we are still hanging on to the Lord and believing him. So many days I am just asking him to help me and he is always there.

Hope you all have a good day.

Boo
April 17, 2017 - Msg 107309: Bernie....Bernie....Where is Bernie?......HaHa Boo!...Just kidding,
Bernie is family, not dinner...G-F
April 17, 2017 - Msg 107310: G F IS GOING BY BY

April 17, 2017 - Msg 107311:
Thank you folks for all the welcome backs and well wishes. It may seem trivial but it does mean a lot to me knowing that someone is thinking about me who is not a tax or bill collector. LOL Thank you all.

MDC, first of all, thank for your prayers. Also, I offered prayers for help with your sinuses.
I laughed when you posted how my graphic details made you cross your legs. Even I cringe just thinking about it. Thankfully my next procedure will be under general anesthesia so they can poke around all they want.

As I mentioned earlier, I have a lot of archives to catch up on. I might wait until after I'm discharged.

Boo, I saw you asked for prayers but I'm not sure what for until I finish the archives. I will offer prayers without specifics.

from Poor Horatio
April 17, 2017 - Msg 107312: Good afternoon, porch! I hope everyone had a wonderful, peaceful and reverent Easter. Beautiful music by our choir at church, and as always, a thoughtful, wonderful sermon from our pastor. He just gets better all the time. However, I wasn't too sure about the "reverent" part yesterday afternoon, as the family was out on Eloise's driveway, cracking cascarones on each other's heads. For those of you on the northern and eastern porch, who may not know what those are, here's an explanation: http://tinyurl.com/jwbshnd. They're fun, but messy. The confetti just gets into everything. Eloise always sends everyone outside with them, but that doesn't always help. Her 7-yr old great-granddaughter has very thick, very long hair - she can almost sit on it. Yesterday, she came running in from outside, and her hair was just full of confetti. Someone mentioned it, she pulled a strand around and looked at, and little drama queen that she is, she yelled "Oh, my gosh, I've got to get that out of my hair" and started shaking her head and brushing at it, and just showered confetti all over Eloise's carpet! What a mess. That stuff immediately works its way down into carpet pile, and is very hard to vacuum up.

The little girl is a hoot. Beautiful child, very enthusiastic, and VERY dramatic! She's also quite articulate, in two languages. She speaks Spanish almost as well as she speaks English. When she gets excited she switches back and forth, and that can get funny. She adores Toye Starr, wants to hold her and play with her all the time, and it's not Toye Starr's idea of a fun time. She just puts up with it. The child is good to her, but just wants to carry her around constantly. Last night, she had us all laughing. She had been pursuing Starr all evening, and finally she walked into the living room, carrying Starr, and plopped down on the floor, and said, "Look! She's sitting in my lap and she likes it! She's staying in my lap!" Well, yes, she was staying there, but only because she was firmly swaddled in a big red lap blanket, and couldn't have gotten away if she had tried! All we could see was her eyes and nose.

Hey, it's raining! Yay! We need it, and not only will it help my water bill, but the yard will thrive. You can water all you want and things do okay, but nothing does it like rain! The grass will be greener by tomorrow! Rain contains nitrogen, and plants love it!

I found another alert from CVS Caremark in my email this morning, wanting my consent to charge my card and ship my insulin. So, for the fifth or sixth time, either online or by phone, I gave my consent. I must have said a magic word somehow, because about an hour later I went into my account and checked the status of the order, and it said it was being shipped. Finally. Imbeciles.

Well, off I go. Not much to do around here today for once, and can't go outside. Maybe a TAGS marathon would be in order. Starr and I can share a bowl of popcorn and watch some Andy. Yep, sounds like a plan. Blessings! --Romeena
April 17, 2017 - Msg 107313: 1 hour and 50 minutes on the root canal. Ugh. The last 15 minutes or so, my jaws were so tired I couldn't stand it. Sinus drainage is a real challenge when you're flat on your back and can't clear your throat. I suspect it may have done permanent damage to my uvula.

Billy Ray the Root Canal Hatin' Postman
April 17, 2017 - Msg 107314: Billy Ray, hopefully you Fed's have good dental in$surance ... Yep, it's a FUN day...

Romeena, that is a New one on me!... Never heard of them kind of eggs before..Interesting custom...

Hey Asa, I still got the touch, I fixed my StepDaughters washer today...Runs Smooth...Real Smooth!. She didn't have to call "The Man"....

G-Fix-It Man (Ret.)
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107315: HI ALL, just a quick hello tonight, but also another prayer request. I have been having several symptoms of kidney failure recently, just didnt say anything about it here. I am seeing the doctor on Tuesday and see what he thinks. Plus, I just had a whole set of blood work done last week
and those results should show some info.
So I ask that you keep me in your prayers that we can at
least find out why I have been feeling so yukky lately. I DO know that some of it is from
the high pollen problem and high pollution days
we have been having, but the fatigue, chills, and poor urination lately are what need to be checked out.
THANK YOU!!!
mdc
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107316: Hey MDC, You are in my prayers for sure my friend.

Good for you GF. Save your Daughter some money and brush up on them fixit skills. You da man!

Ro, I hope your meds show up soon. That is just nonsense, both the price and the hoops you have to jump through to get the stuff.

Glad you got some cooler weather Boo. You are as always in my prayers.

Yep Billy, the worst part of a dentist visit for me are the draining sinuses also I do believe. Just hate it.

Well off to work.

Asa
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107317: MDC... Prayers for good tests, sounds like symptoms of kidney stone to me, been there done that Buddy!

Billy Ray.."The podcast postman" good to see you pop into last nights podcast, we have fun and Floyd always has a good show. Sarah "Miss Mayberry" is a young lady with Downs Syndrome, she is pretty functional but can be redundant at times just so you know. She is a sweet soul with a abundant joy of all things Mayberry.

Well today is "TAX DAY" ....Sooo Be sure to "Pay the Man" your money 💰....

G-F
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107318: Good Tuesday to all this morning. I hope everyone had a very Happy and Blessed Easter.

I have tried to post a couple of times but for some reason my post would disappear in the middle of my typing it. I am certain I hit the wrong button and poof it was gone. hopefully my fingers won't fumble today.

Wanted to let ya'll know things are a bit better with Mr.Maude's job. seems less stressful for the time being. And My Beth started working at part time job at Food Lion Grocery Store yesterday. She will be a cashier which will at least give her some much needed experience to help further her along to something full time. She has a degree in business and finance but has had a time in getting someone to hire her. Most all banks want her to have experience so hopefully this will help.

Thanks for keeping both situations in your prayers.

raining here today and supposed to be rainy all week. hopefully the weather will clear for the
Bristol race fans this week end.

gotta get busy here at work.
lunch menu will be: grilled ham and cheese sandwiches, chips, toll house cookies for dessert.
tea or raspberry lemonade to drink.

prayers and blessings to all
Big Maude
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107319:
MDC so sorry to learn that you suspect kidney problems. In my case, poor urination ended up being a urinary tract blockage. Have you had your creatinine level checked? Also, that yucky feeling and progressive fatigue symptom are what I had before I ended up in the hospital. Glad you are seeing your doctor. I will offer more prayers for you.

G-F, thanks for that info about Sarah "Miss Mayberry". She sure seems to be a happy and friendly young lady who loves to chat and livens up Floyd's weekly podcasts.
Since you mentioned that you fixed your step-daughter's washer, our washer died and I can't be there to fix it. Judging from the symptoms, it seems to be a system control board problem. My wife consulted a repair guy and he also suspects the system control board. But he estimates the repair will cost between $400 and $500. If I was home, I could purchase the control board and install it myself and save the labor cost. I think we will just end up spending a few extra hundred more dollars to purchase a new washer.

from Poor Horatio
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107320: Wow, lots of prayers needed on the porch. MDC, I guess a kidney issue could explain of the swelling, too. I will offer a word of encouragement to you..since you are keeping your blood pressure under control and you aren't diabetic, your kidney prognosis is probably good. The kidneys are fairly resilient, in my experience, and I'll bet they will be ok. I am glad you are following up with the doctor. Be sure you tell him of any supplements you are taking, besides your regular medicine. My prayers for sure.

Wow, Billy Ray..I am due a root canal AND a crown in June. They tell me I will be there for 7 hours! I am having the nitrous, though. I have a jaw joint issue and keeping my mouth open for a long time is going to give me some real discomfort for weeks after, I am sure. Glad your's is over and done.

Sounds like everyone had a good Easter.

PH, I have been needing prayer for my children, Erin especially, but haven't gone into detail out of respect for her privacy. Bruce and I are hurting, and so are the kids. Please pray for the Lord to intervene and work things out. Thank you. Some days are better than others, but we have a long road ahead of us with both kids.

Well, better git...have to be on my way to San Antonio today.

Boo
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107321: PS- I have one word for all of you...FLOSS!

Boo
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107322: VICKS! (:
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107323: Hi All
Springtime Is More Beautiful

Springtime is more beautiful
Each time that she appears;
In her gown of many colors;
Her loveliness endears.
She only stays for a little while,
Too soon she must depart,
Her flower-filled days are numbered
Though much beauty they impart.
Springtime spins her magic
And splendor beyond compare;
I thank God for His springtime gifts
Every time I say a prayer.

TOM

April 18, 2017 - Msg 107324: Amen TOM...We wish she would stay around a lot longer in our area Right?...G-F
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107325: Good afternoon, folks. Well, I did it. I finally did it. I finished the book, checked it over more times than I can count, and today at 3:16 pm, I sent it to the publisher. I hope I included all the attachments - their submission form (about 8 pages), all the copyright releases for pictures and written work that will be reproduced, the files for the pictures themselves, etc. Amazing, all the stuff that has to be addressed, justified and authorized. So now it's done. I don't know when it will actually be in printed form, but I think it's just a few weeks. As soon as I know when, where, and how to order a copy, I'll post it here, in case anyone wants to order one. I wish I could just send a copy to everyone, but as I understand it, they will give me five copies to do with as I see fit, but after that, I have to order them just like everyone else. At a wholesale rate, of course, but the difference in author's price and order/shelf price isn't much. I can't believe it's actually finished. There's sort of a letdown, to my surprise. I'm glad it's finished, but now what do I do???

TOM, that's a lovely poem, and I'm looking out at my bright, blooming yard and yep, that's what it looks like! Springtime in her "gown of many colors."

Boo, you and yours are always in my prayers. Whatever the problems right now, I just ask God to deal with them. He knows what they are.

MDC, from your description - fatigue, chills and difficult urination, that sounds like a big old kidney infection. I hope somebody has you on a good antibiotic. A bladder infection is bad enough, it makes you "go" all the time, and can be painful, but when the infection moves into the kidneys themselves, you feel like two miles of bad road. Boo is right, the kidneys are quite resilient, and usually respond well to proper treatment, but you really want to get right on that.

When I started with my new endocrinologist, she wanted a complete blood workup. I'm so glad she did, because I just love my numbers, especially the lipid panel. My total cholesterol is 160, and my triglycerides were only 96, and my A1C was 6.0. That from an insulin-dependent diabetic, who drinks buttermilk, eats lots of cheese and sour cream, and uses real butter, not the fake stuff. I really don't follow a diabetic diet. I eat desserts, but I don't eat huge portions. I eat red meat, Mexican food, fried chicken with crust, gravy, lots of things that would make a doctor's head spin. Yet, you can't argue with the numbers. They're great! God is good.

Maude, I can only imagine Beth's frustration, being unable to get a job that uses her education properly, but for sure she'll have "people"experience after working at Food Lion, and that should count for something. Meantime, she's got a paycheck!

Asa, I got an email from CVS Caremark this morning, stating that my insulin has shipped. It was sent about the same time as another one that said they were still "processing" my request. Go figure. I don't think they'd send one saying it had shipped if it hasn't, so I'm not going to jangle my nerves by getting in a phone conversation with another nice young lady who can only repeat what she sees on a screen in front of her, and it's usually wrong. Not her fault, but sure is annoying.

Well, guess I'll go kick back and watch some Andy. It feels funny, not to have the book hanging over my head! Blessings, everyone. --Romeena
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107326: Good on you Romeena, or should we call you.. Romeena Alexienne DuBois' ? Glad to hear you book is out to the printers...Keep us informed when it's hot off the press so we can get a copy while it's still warm....lol

G-F
April 18, 2017 - Msg 107327: MDC, somehow I missed the part about the chills, etc. that you are having. I had the impression that you had already seen a dr and perhaps had labs done showing a kidney problem. As Ro said, it sounds like it could be an infection in the urinary tract. Any back pain or blood in the urine? Glad you are seeing your doctor.

Well we got some good news at the maxofacial surgeon in San Antonio today. He thinks the degenerative process in Erin's jaw has stopped and that the cartilage has slipped and that is what is causing the pain and popping in the joint. He wants her to get some non-surgical treatment, therapy and see her again in 6 months. He says she has a mild case that has not caused the jaw or teeth to be out of line but that we were good to have it checked out early..I have her orthodontist to thank for that. Hopefully, with therapy, she will have less pain in it. Now, back to the sports medicine doctor tomorrow for her shoulder. Whew, it is always something with these kids.

A 6.0 A1C, Romeena! That's terrific. I rejoice with you. Mine hangs around 6.5 on just Metformin.

Maude, I hope this job helps Beth to get the experience she needs to further her career. It can't be a bad thing...there are things she can only learn by doing what she is doing.

I really had a nice day today. The drive to San Antonio was enjoyable and it was just really fun to hang with both my kids for the day. Hope the rest of you had a good day.

Boo
April 19, 2017 - Msg 107328: HI ALL, well I am officially "old" because I saw THREE doctors today! ha
First, my chiro who adjusted a few spinal "Ts" that affect the kidneys. Then i saw my allergist, and he
said just grin and bear it concerning my allergies. (He doesnt want me to try any more sprays) My worst is ash, and that 'season' should be over in May. Then I saw my GP regarding how I have been feeling, and the possibility of kidney issues. My creatine was OK from blood work at my physical 2 weeks ago, but since the extra swelling just came up recently, he wanted to re-check it. Ro--he did not bring up kidney infection as a possibility, but when he calls me (yes, he is usually the one to call) I will bring that up! He also mentioned how many of my symptoms could also be due to my a-fib heart, He did an EKG and I am a little more irregular, so I will go see my cardio doc next. Wow, I am sure glad that I have a very good Medicare supplement plan! Thanks for your continued prayers,
very much appreciated.
BIG Maude--good to see your post! Sounds like things are going a bit better these days!
TOM--wonderful poem, thanks.
BOO, Asa, GF, PH, ...my prayers for you all!
all for now,
MDC
April 19, 2017 - Msg 107329: MDC....We call that a "Doctor Trifecta" these days...Back in the day you bet on the "ponies" 🐎🐎🐎.....
Today I guess we just bet on the best the 3 best doctor reports!...Yep that's our lives now thru & thru....ha

G-F
April 19, 2017 - Msg 107330: can you please give us a brief overview of what your book is about?

from Poor Horatio
April 19, 2017 - Msg 107331:
My Msg 107330 is meant for Romeena

from Poor Horatio
April 19, 2017 - Msg 107332: I would be happy to, PH. It's the story of my reaction to the death of my husband, the struggle to handle my grief, and the rebuilding of a new life without him. It's generally upbeat, a little funny in spots, lots of helpful, down-to-earth suggestions and advice, comforting and encouraging over all, and is peppered with memories from our early years - stories that provide background to explain some of my reactions after his death. It's not a big book, probably will finish out at about 145 pages.

While it's primarily intended as a guide for the newly-bereaved, it can be applied to a lot of things that happen to us. We can experience loss in many forms, not just from a death. Loss of a job, a relationship, our health, a home, anything that causes severe upheaval in our lives can send us into a tailspin. I'm hoping there's a little something for everyone in that little book. --Romeena
April 20, 2017 - Msg 107333: Hello all, well my GP took an x-ray of my chest, and he thinks he sees signs of congestive heart issues! When it rains, it pours folks. Lord be with us.
He had it electronerly sent to my cardiologist,
so I was able to be squeezed in this Friday afternoon to see him. On Thursday afternoon I have
my last follow-up with the surgeon, so we'll also see what he says about the whole deal.
Friends, God is in charge, but we also must remember that St. Luke
was a physician, and God gifts physicians
everyday with wonderful talent, so I am not worrisome about this. Thank you for all your
prayers and support! (:
RO--your book sounds really good. I hope to get one when it is published.
PH--I hope your rehab is coming along good.
GF--in my mid-20s I liked to go to the dog races.
I tried a few trifectas but never won. ha
Looks like new storms may be coming to Spot's area.
Prayers,
MDC
April 20, 2017 - Msg 107334: Quick trouble check...got garden planted been so busy..gona be a good year for crops ...I just know it..ok to read the archives...prayers..SPOT
April 20, 2017 - Msg 107335: MDC, if you are indeed developing CHF, it's good that you're catching it in the early stages. There's a lot that can be done to manage it. I'm glad you're seeing a cardiologist. Sounds like you have a good GP, or primary care physician. I'm guessing he's fairly young, or else he's old and very progressive, since he quickly deferred to your cardiologist. So many of the older GPs still want to handle everything, and drag their feet on referrals. These days, that can be dangerous. The others are called "specialists" for a reason. They have specialized in one body system or the other, and have extensive education and experience in that area. Some of the die-hard GPs try to be all things to all people, and that just can't be done. The body of knowledge these days is just too great, and getting ever more so. Your cardiologist will know much more about managing CHF, and apparently your GP acknowledges that. Good for him! He did exactly what his specialty - and it is a specialty - has prepared him to do. Recognize a condition, and refer you to the appropriate specialist. He's a traffic cop, and what would we do without them?

We have one of the "I can do it all" GPs here in Irving, and unfortunately, there are a lot of people who go to him for everything. The only thing I know of that he doesn't do is deliver babies and do surgery. He fancies himself an expert on diabetes, and I've got a good friend who was diagnosed with diabetes three years ago. He goes to Dr. X, and his blood sugar is always wildly out of control. My A1C is 6, his is 10 or more all the time. Shouldn't be above 7. He badly needs to be on insulin, but Dr. X won't order it. He's trying to control it with pills, and some people can, but my friend is not one of them. He is devoted to Dr. X though, and nobody can change his mind. He went to my endocrinologist for a short time, until he told him he wanted him to go on insulin. Then he quit and went back to Dr. X, "because he's not needle-happy like that other guy." You just can't help some people. --Romeena
April 20, 2017 - Msg 107336: I needed to thank you for this good read!! I certainly enjoyed every little bit of it. I've got you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post dddcccebkgdeaeae
April 20, 2017 - Msg 107337: Just dropping in to say "Howdy" and catch up with everyone! I will be back to rock more when I can...everything is busy here with my oldest son graduating high school next month and then off to college...a few tears are being shed by Mrs. SMH and myself but God has a plan for his life and we can see how God is already working things out for him.

God is good all the time...All the time God is good!

SMH
April 20, 2017 - Msg 107338: Sorry to hear about another bump in your road, MDC, but that is just what it is..a bump. I agree with Ro. CHF is manageable when dealt with early. I remember my dad being told years ago that he had it, they put him on the right meds and he never had a problem with it after that. He didn't even die from heart disease when his time came. I'm glad your doc is being careful. Mine is like that, too. He doesn't try to do everything himself.

Ro, that really bothers me about your friend. I am afraid he is really going to regret his decision. Sounds like he is in denial. Makes me mad at the doctor. I will never forget what happened to my Dad's oldest brother, Wyatt. He died in his 60's from an MI because he went to an old town doctor who never sent him for a cardiac evaluation, even though he was diabetic. He was also on po meds and I don't know what his A1C was, but I wonder. My dad used to all but beg him to get a good evaluation with a cardiologist, but, like your friend he thought his doctor was God. My dad was very concerned for him because of a strong family history of heart disease. I remember reading the autopsy report on my uncle and his veins and arteries were blocked up with calcium deposits and plaque. Sad because it nearly killed my Aunt Della to lose him. She never really recovered from it and went on to have terrible heart disease, herself.

Well, been a pretty good day. I went into work today for a coworker who was in the hospital. Marissa was pregnant with her first baby and developing high blood pressure. They induced her labor today and she had a beautiful baby girl. We are all relieved and happy for her.

Well, I think I need to relax for a bit. Hope you all have a good evening.

Boo
April 20, 2017 - Msg 107339: Good afternoon, porch. Boo, thanks for the concern for my friend. His wife is about ready to wring his neck, but he just laughs it off. He thinks Dr. X is Albert Schweitzer and Dr. Kildare all rolled into one. I worked with that doctor in the hospital, and he has a very charming manner with his patients. The older ladies just adore him, and surprisingly, the men do, too. Personally, I think my friend is scared of needles (his wife says he rarely checks his blood sugar) and that's why he doesn't like the endocrinologist - because he suggested insulin. It's unfortunate that high blood sugar doesn't make you feel bad until it's at a nearly lethal level. Oh, there are little signs, but they're easily ignored. Low sugar - now that's another story! You feel terrible and that's good, because it will definitely send you to the fridge for some juice, which gets it back up where it belongs. When my blood sugar drops, I'd shove a mule out of the way to get to my apple juice! As for my friend, he's an intelligent man - a successful structural engineer, for pete's sake! However, he just has a blind spot in this one thing. I think you're right, he's in denial, at least to some degree. I think he does accept that he has diabetes, but he's also denying how serious it is, or he has a fatalistic acceptance and thinks there's nothing he can do about it, so why put up with needles? It does no good to show him my numbers, and explain how easy it is to manage the problem. He's a very stubborn man in some ways. He chooses to believe Dr. X when he says he can manage it with diet and a pill. One small problem - he doesn't watch his diet, either.

For that matter, neither do I, at least not strictly, but insulin allows me to eat what I enjoy, within reason. I eat very little candy, (five jelly beans today) and drink sodas only about once a month. I eat butter, cheese, sour cream, red meat (not a lot) and pretty much eat what I please, but I check my sugar four times a day and take whatever insulin is needed to keep it below 130. Lab numbers tell the story, and all of mine were in the normal, non-diabetic range. Can't argue with that.

Good for you, for filling in for your coworker, and now she's got a beautiful little baby. You should be an honorary auntie!

Well, the church is having a fish fry tonight, and you can bet I'm going. All the catfish you want, and a huge bowl of green tomato relish, which is an absolute requirement with fried catfish in this part of the country. Love it!! There will also be hush puppies, french fries, and slaw. Yum! I'll mostly specialize on the fish and green 'mater relish, though. Blessings, everyone! --Romeena
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107340: Hello Porchsters. RO--my GP and My cardio doc know each other quite well so that helps with things
a lot, plus I have been seeing both for the past 20 years. I see the cardiologist today (Friday) at 2 PM, so please keep me in your prayers. Thanks. I think I have mentioned here that I have been in A-fib for about 30 years now, and have an enlarged heart, and I do take about 300 mg of Co Q 10 daily, along with the other heart Rx's, so i think this is just a natural "next step" where the pumping is getting weaker, and so the fluids are building up in my legs. I took a diuretic for a while after the surgery, and I think he will want me to start that up again, and hopefully he will have me get an echocardiogram
to see what's up heartwise; plus my GP has sent him the chest x-ray. Thanks for listening.
SMH--all the best to your son as he enters the collegiate life!
BOO-- you and fam are still in my prayers. Congrats to
your co-worker!
Hello to ALL!
MDC

April 21, 2017 - Msg 107341: Hello!
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107342: I should also point out that this is the first time
that a chest x-ray of mine is showing fluid in my lungs, so that is definitely a little disconcerting.
And "hello" to you message 107341.
The peace of Jesus to us all!
Love you,
MDC
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107343: Good Friday morning all.

Hey MDC, I am sorry to read of your ailments. For sure you are in my prayers. It's tough to get old and start dealing with these issues, ain't it? I just had my 6 month follow up with my Cardiologist after my ablation. She said everything looked really good other than my blood pressure is a bit high. I am on my 4th different medication for that and it's still high. So I have to go back to my G.P. and see what we do next. Anyway, hang in there my friend. As Ro and Boo said, it sounds like you are on top of things early, and that is a real plus.

My neighbor is also someone I went to school with. Actually both him and his wife. Anyway he ended up in the E.R. last week with bad stomach problems. They ended up doing emergency surgery on him and found he has diverculitis real bad and had to remove some od his bowel. He is now having to use the colon bag for 6 months to a year. At least the biopsy came back clean. But he has really been through the ringer the last few years. He was diagnosed with Crohns disease back then. I guess we all have our burdens we carry though.

I best get to work. Spring and summer prep is in full swing now.

Asa
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107344: Hey Asa... I have a good Rx for high BP... It's not a new medication but a good one!..RETIREMENT..👍
Glad you got a decent report from the Doc... Think about that Rx Buddy....

MDC I hope you can get regulated and get back to "Normal" or what we call "Today's Normal"...

Romeena, I'm hoping there will be some good squirrel stories in your book..I'm sure you got a lot of good ones to tell...

PH... Continued prayers for your recovery, and continued prayers for Boo and her family too!....

G-F
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107345:
MDC so sorry to learn your doctor suspects a heart problem. My mother lived many years with CHF (congestive heart failure). My prayers continue for you.

SMH, your closing sentence in Msg 107337 reminds me of my favorite Christian song. Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jl06RN5zRxk

from Poor Horatio
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107346: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MESSAGE: LOL...I know exactly what you all mean. Now, since I have a sense of permission after hearing all of your stories, I will tell you mine. :) You all know that back in March I decided to take the bull by the horns and stop neglecting my own health issues...first was the pap (don't know why they insisted on the pap since I no longer have a cervix, but the good news is the doc said I wont have to have another one since this last one was normal...ya think?)...but, as you may recall, the mammogram was abnormal and I had to have a follow up mammo which showed the enlarged lymph. My next step in the health plan was to see the dentist and you all know what happened there...cavities and a needed root canal. Cavities are now fixed, root canal is pending, and boy is it costing me a bundle. Next step, after lots of consideration and educating myself, I decided to see a bariatric surgeon. After many lifelong attempts at sustained weight loss, I have decided on a gastric bypass for two reasons. My liver function tests continue to worsen and because of it, I am off most meds now except for my Metformin for diabetes. Right now, my A1C and fasting blood sugar remain in the normal range, but it is just a matter of time at this weight that I will have to be on insulin and it will begin to effect my other organs. I also have pretty bad gastric reflux that makes it impossible for me to go off the Nexium, which as most of you know, is associated with dementia and kidney disease. The gastric bypass surgery bypasses the part of the stomach that produces the most acid and often cures reflux in itself. I have know several people who have had the surgery (which is laproscopic) and their quality of life and health have improved dramatically. My family needs me and its time to do what I have to do to stay alive and well for them. The pending surgery is the reason that I had the recent endoscopy. My insur@nce require that I see a nutritionist and counselor for 4 months before I have the surgery and I saw the nutritionist about a month ago. I am on a fairly strict diet to help shrink down my liver and make surgery safer. I have already lost 9 pounds and am eating a lot of vegetables. I also found out I am anemic and I have to have some iron studies done, so I am taking iron pills, too. Depending on what that shows, I may have to see another doctor for tests. I have really been trying to eat more meat and veggies that are good for building the red blood cells. So, I will probably be having the surgery in August or September. There, now you know. I hesitate to tell anyone because people have strong opinions about the surgery and have often heard some terrible stories about it. I have considered everything and feel like this is the route for me. Well, gotta get ready for work. You are in my prayers, MDC. Don't worry..they will get things fixed up for you. Boo

April 21, 2017 - Msg 107347: Message looks a little different because the censor caught it because I spelled out insur@nce the first time. I copied and pasted. :)

Boo
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107348: Wow, Boo. That's a big step, a big decision. Knowing you, I believe that you've thought it through carefully and have made an informed decision. I'm glad you can take Metformin, if it helps you. I couldn't take it, made me feel just awful, and it didn't do much to keep my sugar down, either. Different things work for different people sometimes. You and yours will be in my prayers, as always.

MDC, I'm glad you're taking Co-Q-10, that's a little-known wonderful drug for helping your heart. I take a much higher dose, with my cardio doc's enthusiastic approval. When I started taking it years ago, on the advice of a nurse friend, I went from a documented cardiac ejection fraction of low 40s to an equally documented 58. That's when my then-skeptical doc asked me if I was still taking "that voo-doo stuff". When I said I was, he said "well, don't stop. Take 1,000 mg twice a day, and keep it up." He now prescribes it for patients. So, I did, and I still do. My EF hangs around 58-62, and that's good.

Asa, do you take any meds that are incompatible with grapefruit? If not, and if you like grapefruit or the juice, be aware that it has a tendency to lower your blood pressure a little. Personally, I love grapefruit, and eat it several times a month. It can potentially increase the effects of my Cardizem, but I watch my pressure and it stays normal. For someone whose pressure goes too high, eating grapefruit could be helpful, but if you're taking a med that says not to eat it, then check with your doc first.

Well, guess I'll go watch Quincy. I like that show - have always liked Jack Klugman, and especially as Quincy. Blessings, porch! --Romeena
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107349: Afternoon all. By golly, ain't we a mess on this porch? LOL We ain't no spring chickens anymore.

Boo, It sounds like to me you have thought things through very carefully. And with your background, your thinking is educated, so I say good for you. I hope it will help you out.

Romeena, I only take 2 meds routine, Allopuronal and Lopressor and I don't think grapefruit would interact with that, so I will give it a try for sure. I would much prefer natural ways of doing it whenever possible. Thanks for the suggestion. I love the "Simply Orange High Pulp" orange juice, and I think they make a grapefruit juice, so I will get some tomorrow when I do my shopping.

GF, I do love your Rx prescription, and it is on my radar for sure. But as it is for many, health in$urance is the biggest issue. But my Wife and her condition may make the decision for me.

Boy, I haven't seen a Quincy in ages Ro. I liked that show also. Is it on your DISH? What channel? I would like to DVR it.

I hope you are feeling better P.H. Good to see you back. You too SMH.

Well this day and this week is about done. Heading for home to ride the Wheeler for a bit GF. 10-4 BUDDY?

Asa
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107350: Asa, Quincy is on DISH 82 around here. I don't know if DISH channel numbers are the same everywhere, but I suspect they are. 82 carries FETV and COZI-TV. Quincy is offered by FETV, I think.

That goofy little wood duck mama is still holed up in my squirrel house. I know she's got a clutch of eggs in there with her, just wish I knew how long she's been brooding them, so I can be ready for them to hatch. Gotta stop at a dollar store in the next day or two and get a little wading pool to catch the babies in. Their only chance of survival is if I can catch them and move them and their mom to a local pond. If she tries to lead them overland out of here, they'll be cat food for sure. That hurts my heart!

Blessings, friends. --Romeena
April 21, 2017 - Msg 107351: Ok Gang...Picture Barney with a carload of dogs...Now picture Romeena with a carload of ducks 🦆 🦆🦆🦆
I'll leave you with that vision...Romeena is a friend to ALL Gods Creatures.....G-F ( Move over, I'm drivin' )

April 21, 2017 - Msg 107352: WHEELERTIME!!....👍
April 22, 2017 - Msg 107353: Wow, what did I start here? Ha. It sounds like we all need to see
old Doc Andrews! lol.
BOO--my prayers are indeed with you. That was brave to bring all that out in the open on the porch,
but you'll be glad you did. Like me, it give you an outlet.
In fact, the jury is still out on my condition. Saw my cardio doc today, and as he listened to my lungs, he didnt hear the fluid, but he said it my have gone into my swollen legs! He ordered an echo-cardiogram which I will get on Tuesday.
Also, for my own 'peace of mind' I made an appt with a nephrologist to check out my suspicions
regarding my kidneys. Thanks again for you prayers and concern.
RO--you must rob a bank every week (or the Mayberry gold truck) to be able to take 2000 mg
of CoQ 10 every day! That stuff aint cheap! wow. haha

Well, time to hit the hay.
God bless,
MDC
April 22, 2017 - Msg 107354: Good morning, porch. Wait! 2000 mg of Co-Q-10 a day? What was I thinking?? I'd call it a typo, but I even put the comma in, and the numbers don't match! No, no, no! I take 240 mg a day. I must have been very tired, or having a "senior moment." Good grief! I take 120 mg morning and evening. I can't imagine what I was thinking. Sorry 'bout that!

Speaking of medications, the rest of my insulin finally arrived, so I can quit riding herd on my blood sugar so tightly. With the Lantus working in the background, it really smooths the numbers out.

Honestly, our recent postings sound like the conversation you hear in the "common room" at a nursing home!

My tree guy never did call me back about cutting the cottonwood out of my trees. After that awful windstorm we had, I know he's just overwhelmed with people needing fallen or damaged trees taken care of, and my optional request is on the bottom of the list. Actually, it's too late now. Those little green beads are popping, and cotton is flying. However, I notice that there's not a lot of it this year - I think we had one little freeze that may have nipped some of those beads - so maybe it won't be too bad. So far, it's nothing that the rain won't settle, Maybe I dodged an expensive bullet this year.

Well, I got a little wading pool yesterday. Had to pay $8 for it, (ridiculous) but I've got one. Now I've got to figure out when those duck eggs are going to hatch. I really don't know when she started brooding them. I went back in the archives, to see when they hatched last year, because I'm sure I mentioned it here, but couldn't find it. PH, I'd ask you to search your magic file, but I know you're on the puny list right now, and may not even have access to the computer where that file resides. She's definitely got eggs in there, because she stays in the box most of the time, and now and then she turns her little rump up to the entrance, and I know she's using her bill to turn the eggs. I guess I'll just put the little pool in place. If it stays there very long, it will smother the grass underneath it, but it will grow back in when the pool is removed. Small price to pay for saving those baby ducks. I just hope my plan works!

Well, got to get busy. Dave and Brittney and the boys, and Eloise and Jerry are coming over mid-afternoon, and we'll make tacos! I want to have all the stuff ready, so all we have to do is put them together. Blessings, friends! --Romeena