Storm Chasers For A Day....

It Was A Dark and Stormy Night Morning....  Actually, it was a dark and stormy Memorial holiday weekend here along the Florida panhandle.  Pensacola received major thunderstorms and we were eye-witnesses to nature's wrath and beauty. 

With a good friend in town visiting us, our family headed out to breakfast and to site-see on Sunday, May 30th.  After stuffing our bellies full of bagels and eggs, we drove to a local memorial park.   Our crew hoped to pay tribute to America's fallen heroes and military men and women who have served our country.  However, instead of visiting the memorial, our eyes and minds became sidetracked with the incredible stormy weather that was literally right above our heads. 

Although we have great respect for the armed forces, our family decided that standing next to metal flag pole and metal statues was not a wise decision.  We can return to the park another day to pay respects.  So we became storm chasers determined to pay homage to mother nature....

Here are some amazing weather photos that both our friend John and I captured during those stormy, morning hours along Pensacola, Florida's bay and standing at downtown Palafox Pier:




(Just as we left the parking lot of our breakfast bagel shop, I noticed this water spout -- which for those of you who may not know - a water spout is like a tornado over water-- forming over Pensacola Bay.  Our friend John captured the picture with his camera phone from the insides of our truck.  May 30, 2010) 





(That water spout began to grow as we drove along the bay roads, trying to determine which direction it would go, not to mention what direction we should go too!)






(We stopped at a local pier to gain more camera shots and to let Vivian run around with the pigeons and egrets before the rain fell.  See the clouds rolling in -- the calm before the storm!) 






(The storm clouds actually looked beautiful hovering over the bay and the boats parked along the pier.) 






(Normally this pier is packed full of visitors.  You could see that on a stormy day like this though, our truck was one of the only vehicles there.  We stuck around until the rain began to come down.) 



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I'll admit that I felt both excited and a little scared being out there near the water as this storm was rolling in.  If Vivian wasn't with us, I might not have been afraid at all.  But I was concerned about her safety, especially when we saw the water spout growing over the bay.  

I've been fortunate to avoid any personal encounters with tornadoes, including one moving along water like the one we saw yesterday.  I have shared my experiences and the horrific events during Hurricane Katrina - those I witnessed when we lived in Louisiana; however, I was in a concrete building/military shelter during that storm.  This time we were in a Nissan truck or simply standing on our own two feet along a pier.  Different scenario.  Especially with a child at your side. 

What is it about storms and nature's wrath that evokes the human spirit?  I know my dad always became a little bit crazy when the rain would come pouring down.  He'd sit on our back porch drinking his whiskey with music blaring loud.  When the thunder would boom, he'd yell and laugh along with it.   He even had a close encounter with lightning one time too while working in the yard.  Though it was all in good fun, I'm sure there were moments when my mother and I thought he was being ridiculous.

I usually like being at home beneath my sheets when a storm comes.  My brain knows that the weather won't last but I sometimes have a few moments or minutes of anxiety when it feels like my dwelling place is the target of destruction.  Typically I worry more about losing power for hours or days than the actual end results of a rainfall and windy debris.  After all, my freezer is stocked up full of goodies that I don't wish to lose! 

Vivian had her first moment of fear regarding the weather this weekend too.  A loud thunder noise made her scream.  She even peed in her pants a little from the startling noise.  I hugged her and held her.  It took a few minutes before I could talk her down to feeling safe again.  I'm sure we'll experience many more occasions like this in the future.  I need to put on my brave face and hat when this happens. 

No matter what we encounter, we'll hold hands and stick together as a family.  We won't be naive to believe that we can't be destroyed but we will still find a way to appreciate weather, even in the scary, stormy occasions. 

Do storms excite you or frighten you?  Could you ever be a storm chaser?   Many of my friends LOVE to be in the midst of storms and even find them romantic.  What do you think about storms and crazy weather conditions?  What does your family do to feel safe during a terrifying case of mother nature?

Let's Talk About Sex

Last night I went to see to see the "Sex and the City 2" movie with a group of ladies.  The film didn't disappoint me, despite all the negative criticism about it in the media.   This movie was just what I needed -- tons of fun, laughs, friendship moments, romance, and more!  I highly recommend seeing it, especially if you followed the show and loved the characters like I do.

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WARNING: Spoiler alert for the film!  If you plan to see "Sex and the City 2" and want to be completely surprised, don't read this post!

WARNING TO MY DAD (who often reads my blog): This is a post about sex.  I will mention a few sexual things (all in good taste though).  If you don't wish to read a post about sex that your daughter has written, then please read NO further!  I'm just cautioning you before you read on and feel compelled to write "TMI" in the comments section.  :-)

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Back to the film--  I loved it more than words can say!  I even enjoyed it better than the first film; however, you definitely have to see the original one to appreciate this segment.  The plot covered issues like aging, menopause, being stuck in a rut with your marriage, motherhood struggles, jealousy, work troubles, insecurities, and of course sex!  Anyone can relate to these genres.  We've probably all felt these similar feelings.  I know I have. 

One of the best scenes in the film for me was surprisingly not about sex but the one about motherhood struggles.  Charlotte and Miranda are sitting at their hotel bar talking about how hard being a mom really is.  Miranda convinces Charlotte to finally reveal her true feelings -- that sometimes your kids just drive you crazy!!   That sometimes you just need time alone.  That sometimes you just want to walk away from it all.  Can I get an "Amen" from the moms who are reading this??  It was such a powerful moment (and funny too since Charlotte was getting drunk as she talked).  I loved the raw honesty that was displayed in the scene.  It truly captured how I've felt on many occasions and it was refreshing to see that kind of truth in this movie.

(Charlotte and Miranda in Sex and the City 2)

But back to the sex -- There was typical Samantha trying to fufill her labia desires.  Only this time she was popping pills to prevent menopause and having hot flashes in the middle of the desert.  Say what you will about the character.  Call her a slut or a heroine.  I just love to watch her shenanigans.  The best thing about her, in my humble opinion, is her confidence.  Samantha Jones has confidence and that is sexy. 

I tried to channel that same confidence as I styled myself and put on heels to wear to the film's premier.  I wore a dress that I bought two months ago and hadn't cut the price tags off yet.  I grabbed a beautiful red flower blooming from my yard and held it up next to me before I met up with my friends for our outing.  For the first time in a LONG time, I did feel a little sexy and I felt good about myself.



(Me trying to channel sex and confidence before my Ladies Night Out, May 27, 2010)


After a rough couple of weeks before and after my gallbladder removal surgery, I was in need of a ladies night out and some ME time!   I wanted to surround myself with fellow women who were also in need of a good time, ladies who would laugh along with me in the film.  Thankfully I found those gal pals and we all enjoyed the movie together.



(Me with my Ladies Night Out Bunch at the Sex and the City 2 premier, May 27, 2010.)


I wanted everyone there to have a joyous time; so on my way to the theatre, I stopped at a drugstore to buy a bag of mini chocolates to share.  I mean who doesn't love chocolate?!  A few bites of chocolate is almost as wonderful as (perhaps even better than) sex!  I passed them out before the showing began.  Then to be silly, I later threw a few random Snickers, Twix and Milky Ways to the ladies while they weren't looking!  Hahaha!

I even thought of a few sex talk games we could play before the film began -- such as writing down what sexual lines we use and/or our spouse uses on us; I suggested we put the written lines inside a bucket then have each person pull from it and read someone else's funny lines.  My other suggestion was that we talk about what "pet names" men and women have for their private parts.  Unfortunately, we didn't play any of these games that I dreamed up.  Since attendees were coming at different times, it didn't work out.  And since a few of the ladies are more conservative than me, I thought it would be best to put these ideas on hold.  Instead I think I will host my own private party at home in the future. Then we gals can really cut loose and pretend that we're the cast from Sex and the City!  ;-)  

I read many reviews of the film before I saw it last night.  Critics were not kind to it or the franchise.  To them I say --  So what?!  What's wrong with a feel-good movie these days?  I mean, don't we have enough negative things happening in the real world -- gulf oil spill, increasing job losses and low economy, etc. etc.  Why can't we have a fantasy movie about traveling to far off places with our gal pals? And doing it in style with beautiful dresses and heels? 

Plus I find it refreshing to see and hear women talking openly about sex.  I didn't have an older sister or a friend growing up that shared  sexual tips and experiences with me.  Everyone was kind of "hush, hush" about it.  In high school that was okay.  I was still young and not really interested in that kind of thing just yet.  However, it would have been great to have a network of confident women in that department -- a circle of sex-conversationalists, if you will. 

I have wonderful friends but many of them are shy or private when it comes to the matters of the bedroom.  I can respect that.  Yet I wish people were more open about it in discussions.  Maybe if we were more inclined to talk about sex, younger girls in society might be more open to talk about it too before running off to secretly experiment.  

My mom and I don't really talk about sex.  I wish we did but she's not really open in that respect.  But considering who her mother is (my granny) and the childhood she had, my mom has come a long way.  Also, she can surprise me from time to time with how calm she is regarding the notion of sex and preventing pregnancy.  I remember the first time I told her I wanted to get on the birth control pill.  I was 17 and had a serious boyfriend at the time.  I was considering going all the way.  My mom and I were floating around in our backyard pool when I suddenly brought up the topic.  Without missing a beat, she simply said: "Okay, I'll call and make an appointment for you with my gynecologist."  And that's all we said about it.   "Wow that was easy," I remember thinking.  I didn't even use the pills or need them for a long time but I liked being open with my mother about my intentions.  I liked having them, just in case.

I sure hope Vivian and I will be able to openly talk about sex.  It might not be easy for me to accept if she wants to consider it at an early age or with a person that I don't feel comfortable with or even like.  But I'm not naive and I know it's a reality for girls.  The trend seems to be that sex is happening for younger girls with each passing year.  However, if I do my best to educate Viv and share my experiences with her, then maybe she'll make a decision that I can be proud of and support.   Here's hoping anyway....

The best tool that I hope to give Vivian is to be confident in who she is and to trust her choices - in sex, in life and in being who she really is.  I am still learning and perfecting those notions but I gain strides with time.  As I grow older, I do become more accepting and appreciative of who I am and the decisions I've made.

I'm learning to embrace me.  I'm learning to accept my flaws and my best features.  To me, that's sexy.  To me, that's hot.  And for me, it's worth seeing on film (like this movie) and also worth talking about with all your friends and those you love!



(Embracing the real Mandy.  This is me.)

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Are you shy or open when it comes to talking about sex?  Did your mom or family members talk to you about sex?  As a parent (if you are one), how do you approach discussions of a sexual nature with your kids?   Please share your tips and stories in the comments section.  Thanks!

A Letter From Vivian, Fifth Edition

Helloooo readers of mommy's blog,  I'm baaaaaack!  It's me Vivian.  (Or Viva the Diva as I'm known to my peeps).

It has been an eternity since my last note to you.  Did you forget about me?  Here is my most recent letter I composed back in January to you lovely folks -- just in case you missed it.   

I've written three other letters before that too.  Be sure you check those out (pasted below)!

Vivian's third letter
Vivian's second letter
Vivian's first letter

It's very important that you stay up-to-date in my life.  The diva will NOT tolerate any slackers!
  
So let's see.... what can I share about my fascinating life these days?  Hmmm.....

Oh yeah, I'm potty-trained now!  Did my mommy tell you that?  I go pee-pee and poo-poo in the toilet.  It's kind of fun actually.  My mommy spent so much time with me reading books, looking at flash cards and playing with stuffed animals during that first week of training.  I love making my mom nuts over PT (that's the lingo these days).  Like sometimes she'll be driving around town and I'll say "pot-tee" and she'll practically run over the cars in front of her to find a rest stop or place for me to do my business.  I usually look for a McDonald's so mom will buy me a happy meal and I can get a new Shrek doll.   Mom seems irritated at first, until she has that frappe thing she's always obsessing over. 

Poop is so funny!  Sometimes I think it's pretty and other times I think it's gross.  Like the other day, my mommy and I stared at my poop in the toilet.  We exchanged the following conversation:

Me (Vivian) after I pooped: "It's pretty!"
Mommy: "You think your poo poo is pretty?"
Me (Vivian): "Um, sure!"
Mommy: "Okay..."
Me (Vivian): "Big and brown!"
Mommy: "Yes your poop is big and brown!"

Then we flushed the toilet together and I said, "That's gross!"  Then mommy said, "You think it's gross now?" And I said, "Yes, gosh!" 

See, I'm learning to use adjectives!  I love describing words.  My mommy says I'm a girl after her own heart.  We like to use words like "yummy," "delicious," and "scrumptious" while we eat lunch and dinner.

I'm in a big girl bed now.  No more crib!  The other night my mommy and dad said I "scared the crap out of them" when I showed up next to their bed around midnight.  That sounds yucky.  I hope they cleaned their bed sheets after that happened.  I love my bed.  I enjoy being able to climb in and out of it.  I mostly stay in and wait until mommy comes in to get me each day.  I figure it's best to make her feel comfortable and then suddenly start surprising her each day around 4 a.m.   Ya know, wait until she's all secure with my transition and then show her that I'm the real boss! 

My favorite expression these days is "all bye my-self".  I want to do everything on my own.  I can brush my teeth by myself.  I can climb into the car seat by myself.  Mommy calls me "end-da-pen-dant."   Then she sings some Kelly Clarkson song when she says it, all high and mighty-like.  I'm not sure what that means but I'm sure it must be fabulous since it involves me!

People everywhere think I'm so adorable!  I hear total strangers tell mommy how cute I am, in grocery stores, at the playground, at the doctor's office, etc.  People always ask my mom, "How old is she?"  When mommy says, "Two and a half," they say, "Gosh, she's tall for her age!"  Does that mean that I'm a giant?  Because I don't feel very tall.  There are so many things I want to reach for -- mommy's makeup, hairbrush, daddy's shaving kit, cleaning supplies, dog toys.  I try and try but I still can't get to them.  I hope I continue to grow so I can get my hands on all kinds of things.

"Super readers to the rescue!"  "Wonder red with word power!"  "Princess Pea with Spelling Power!"  Ooops, I'm sorry!  I am kind of obsessed with the television show Superwhy! right now.  Yes, Sesame Street is old news now.  I love singing the songs from Superwhy!  And I love learning the alphabet letters and learning to read.  I even have all the stuffed animals from the show.  My Mimi (grandma) got them for me.  My mommy says I "drag" them around the house everywhere and into the car until I nearly drive her crazy.  I don't know what she means since she's already pretty crazy to me.

Speaking of making my mom a nutso, she calls me a "narrarator" and "parrot".  She says I have to explain everything I see all the time.  I also have to repeat everything she says.  And what's wrong with that, I say?!

My mommy was sick not too long ago.  She had an organ taken out her body.  The gall-bladdah or something like that.  Why do we even have organs that we don't really need?  That's what I want to know!! Mommy says she wish she knew the answer to that too, especially since she paid a lot of money to have that "dang" organ removed.

I have a new babysitter sometimes.  Her name is Elaine.  She's very nice and gives me lots of attention.  She wears a long dress and a little cap each time I see her.  I think she's very stylish but that she must be hot here in Florida with all those clothes on.  I heard mom say she's a "Men-o-nnite" and that she's my teacher from school.  Does that mean she likes to be friends with men at night?  Hmmm, I doubt it.... from the looks of her.  Miss Elaine is seventeen years old and has never watched TV or used a computer.  She lives on a farm.  I think that sounds wonderful.  Those things seem to distract my mommy and daddy anyway.  Miss Elaine gives me endless attention, lots of hugs and tells me she loves me each time she sees me.  So what's not to like about her? 

I visited a "moo-see-um" recently.  We saw a bunch of airplanes and statues from former navy pilots.  I was kind of afraid to look at that stuff though.  The best part was seeing a few stuffed animals, like a military dog.  My mommy says I don't like most people but I love animals.  And what's wrong with that??

I still enjoy dancing around and being silly most of the time.  Mommy and I like to dance to Lady Gaga and Pink lately.  I love to see my mom "get down with her bad self" as she grooves.  I can't dance as good as her yet but she says someday I will be way better than her.  I can't wait!  I want to be better than my mom at everything! 

I'm feeling sick this week. I have an ear infection and I've been sneezing and coughing a lot. I'm sure I'll be feeling well again soon though. After all, I am the DIVA -- and a diva can't stay ill or be down for too long!

Oh well, I better go. Mommy is about to make me breakfast.  I don't like to eat much foods these days but I love my vitamins -- they are soft, gummy and sweet.  So I can't wait to have those!

Anyway, I hope you readers are fabulous. I'll close my letter now and leave you with some beautiful pictures. What are the beautiful photos of? ME! Of course!

See you again soon!

Love,

Vivian

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(Me being silly)




(At the petting zoo)




(Hanging out in the yard with my dog Bono)



(Fun time on my swing)




(At the naval aviation museum)




(One of my favorite things to do -- blow and catch bubbles!) 

Do Scars Ever Go Away?

Each day that passes after my surgery, I can't help but look at the incision scars on my belly and around my navel.  They are bruised and ugly.  Still, they're very small in comparison to what other patients go through in other types of surgical procedures. 

I realize that my scars are hidden in places that will rarely be seen by anyone.  After all, my bikini days are over unless it's the privacy of my own hidden backyard.  Still, I wish I felt better about my scars and the marks they leave on my body.  When I look at my pregnancy stretch marks on my hips, I wish I thought of them with pride instead of annoyance.

My own physical insecurities and silly vanities then led me to think about other types of scars -- the ones you can't see.  Hidden scars that are beneath the surface of a person...  Do you have marks from your past that you can't escape?  Do you know someone who struggles with moving forward because of scars that existed from former days?

I know a young girl who is currently dealing with a lot of emotional scars -- physical and verbal abuse that went unnoticed for several years.  She's the kind of person who bottles her feelings inside.  Rather than disappoint anyone, she tries to please everyone around her.  I worry about this girl -- her once lively, beautiful spirit seems broken now.  I wonder if she'll be able to have a healthy, normal relationship as she ages.  I question whether she'll ever understand that she did nothing wrong to deserve the treatment she underwent. 

Sadly, I don't live near this young lady to help out or lend a direct hand in her daily routine.  If I did, I'd be offering to spend time with her on a regular basis. I would hug this girl, make her laugh and help her feel special as often as possible.  What more can I do since she lives in a completely different place than me?  How can I let her know I care without seeming invasive?

I think of all the little girls and boys out there who are dealing with emotional and physical trama.   How will they grow up?  Do they perform these same awful acts that are performed on them?  Or do they break the chain and become positive role models, even activists in their communities?

Now that I am a mother and responsible for the well being of an individual, I'm much more conscious of the things I say and do.  I sometimes wonder if I'm projecting the right attitude, a positive image and a healthy lifestyle for my daughter.  

This is not an easy thing to do at all times.  Sometimes I find myself being more negative and saying "no" a lot; when I realize this, I try to be more complimentary, positive and say "yes" more often.  When I find myself battling with Vivian to eat at mealtimes, I wonder if I could be pushing her into an eating disorder by forcing her to eat.  I then back off and remember that she's not going to starve if she skips a meal or two. 

I think back to some of the saddest times in my life.  Middle school years were tough and probably when I felt the worst about myself.  I think back to old boyfriends who made fun of me for various, ridiculous reasons -- my crooked teeth, a few extra pounds, the way I dressed, who I dated prior to them and other various items.  I think of former friends who judged my actions or disagreed with my life choices.  I forgive them but I never forget the hurtful words that were spoken.   

Worst of all, I think of hurtful words that I've spoken to family members, friends, former acquaintances and others throughout my life.  I wonder if I've caused a scar for someone else.  An unintentional mark that changed a life, an attitude or a heart.   I hate to think that I may have hurt someone so deeply. 

I want Viva the diva to feel good about who she is.  My hope is that her face will always light up just as it does now when she sees her reflection.  I hope that she'll surround herself with uplifting friends in the future and have no scars in her life.  But is that realistic?  We all have marks from our past. 

I have never dealt with really deep, personal tragedy or life-changing events like intense physical or verbal abuse or death/loss of life from unforseen circumstances.  So I'm no therapist.  However, I do try two things to keep myself in healthy check: (1) I surround myself, as best as possible, with people that I enjoy and that make me feel good, appreciated or valued in some way.  (2) When I begin to feel down about something or about myself, I allow myself a day (or even two) to be a slug/ feel sorrowful.  Then I push myself to move on.  I take action so I'll feel happy/uplifted again.   Most of the time it works for me.  The main key is in the company you keep, in my opinion. 

What kinds of emotional scars do you wrestle with in your lives?  How do you help your friends and family member deal with their mental baggage? 

Early Hours, Content Moments

This morning I was inspired to write this piece below -- I'm not even sure what to call it.  A short, short story?  A brief fictional piece?  It's not my usual style.  I don't consider myself a romantic writer.  But sometimes you just have to go with what inspires you or what comes flooding to your head (and typing fingers).  Sometimes it's fun to play around with a style that you think is contrary to your skills and typical mindset. 

I thought I'd be brave and share it here --


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Early Hours, Content Moments

Fuzzy words and unclear lyrics blared suddenly from the alarm clock.  The time was 5:45 a.m.   Saturday morning.  The couple laughed at the irony of the noise since they had already been awake for an hour.

How differently they would have felt if they were deep in slumber when the musical rooster jolted them.  How annoyed they would have been to miss those extra minutes on the feather pillows.  How desperately they would have exclaimed over the cat putting claws to the carpet as a personal scratch pad. 

None of that phased them though.  Lying in the comfort of their dirty sheets and unshaven bodies, the no-longer newlyweds seemed at peace with the early inconveniences.  For once, they didn't mind the odd hour.  Time alone was rare these days.  With a growing baby down the hall, their intimate moments were harder to grasp. 

She wrapped her legs around his waist, smiling to herself as she could not perform that trick a year ago.  He stroked her back and whispered into her ear how beautiful she looked.  Even after being married nearly a decade, the wife felt self-conscious over her unbrushed teeth and crusty eyes.  Yet her partner looked at her like a Victoria's Secret runway model.  And he loved her like an elderly couple celebrating sixty years of matrimony. 

After a few more chuckles and pet sounds, the mates mustered the energy to climb out the bed.  Coffee was needed, badly. 

The husband began the brew - a strong flavor with a pecan scent.  The wife washed her face then laughed at herself in the mirror.  The words "hot buns" were printed across her boxer shorts.  She shivered in the cold air though, wishing instead for hot cinnamon buns to accompany that cafe au lait.

To warm up, she stepped outside on the patio.  Humidity instantly hit her skin but felt good.  Carefully, she left the screen door open so she could listen for the baby.

After a few minutes, the husband joined her with two mugs in hand.  They sat side by side in faded chairs creaking. 

Barely sunrise outside, the couple engulfed nature sounds.  Birds were chirping furiously, a party of feathered friends where humans were not invited.   The wife pointed out a cardinal perching on the fence and admired its red beauty. 

The husband chatted casually about work affairs.  The wife listened but still absorbed her habitat -- roosters crowing in the distance, a jet flying high overhead and a neighbor's dog barking for attention. 

Their brunch only lasted several minutes but felt like a lingering hour.    Before they became too lost in the contentment, the baby moaned and cried out. 

The wife arose to make milk.  The husband moved down the hall to greet his daughter. 

The early hour may cause the couple's day to seem long; yet the brief tender moments will hover over them, just as the warm blankets did at 4:30 a.m.


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As you read this, how did you feel?  Be honest.  Did you feel warm and fuzzy?  Did you want to vomit?  Did you wish you were a part of that couple?

I'd love to hear your feedback, especially since this is different from how I typically compose or think in my writing.  Thanks!  

Obsessing Over You (a poem)

I wrote this poem because I can't stop obsessing over this one thing lately.... Can you guess what it is before clicking on the image at the end? 

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Obsessing Over You

Dreaming of you
The way you look,
How you taste.


Drooling over you
Wet lips ready
To take you in.


Light skin,
Dark skin too
Your face is everywhere.


Slender and round
Cool to the touch
You cause me to foam.


Temptation and tease
Do with me as you please
I give in.


Our union is quick
Then you're gone
And I want you again.



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WHAT AM I OBSESSING OVER?  Click Here To Find Out!

Random Thoughts and Happenings

Is this not the BEST photo ever?  ;-)

I have several thought-provoking and comical posts in the works but none completed yet.  AND since I'm tired of thinking/talking about my gallbladder removal surgery and the long, horrific recovery process,  I just want to be totally random and mention a few recent happenings that I hope to remember or write about further. 




This post is inspired by my wonderful blogging friend Kelly at My Voice, My View.  She often writes random posts about little things happening in her life -- like this one she did recently.  I LOVE it when Kelly writes these kinds of posts.  It makes me feel as if I gain a better glimpse into her world.  Plus I can relate more to her after reading her randomness. 



So here is my randomness of the week:

• My daughter, Viva the Diva has had diarrhea of the mouth recently -- In other words, she's talking up a storm these days!  She's now asking questions randomly and beginning to use full sentences.  It's rather exciting and always entertaining. 

          Here is a conversation that she and I had yesterday:

         Vivian: “BONO! No!” and she growls a little bit at our dog.


         Vivian: “My hiney!”

         Mandy: “Vivian, did Bono just touch your hiney?” (He was right behind her as she walked.)

         Vivian: “DON’T DO THAT!” she says with mighty force then points her tiny fingers in his face.

         Do any of you know if dogs can be sex offenders? Hahahah!

• I have a new writing project that I've started recently -- I'm creating my own favorite recipes cookbook.  For six months now, I've been meal planning and making big efforts to cook and try new meals.  I have been very creative in the kitchen and it's helped me provide better, healthier meals for my family.  Also, it helped me lose twenty pounds.  I want to compile all the recipes that I love best into a cookbook at the end of year and give it away (or sell it?) as Christmas gifts to family and friends.  I'm pretty good at layout and design so I plan to do it all myself but find a printer/publisher. 
  
  Have you ever undertaken a project like this?  Any advice for me? 

• My mom and I had a great conversation recently regarding teachers and teaching your children.  She said that so many parents expect teachers to do everything for kids when it's really, foremost, the responsibility of the parent to be at-home teachers to children.  Your kids learn best from you, she said.  Parents give them a foundation.  My mom is a retired teacher of 30 years and I really respect her opinion on this important issue.  I have a lot of thoughts on this and hope to write a post on this topic in the near future.   Hearing my mom's stories make me work harder to spend time "teaching" to Vivian each week.  I try to introduce new concepts and learning ideas.  I'm not a teacher at heart and I didn't know where to begin... but I gain ideas watching programs like Sesame Street.  As we drive around town, Viv and I point out shapes like octagons for stop sign and diamonds for road signs.  We also practice placements like "near" and "far" by running around in the yard.  Or we'll do "over" and "under" the volleyball net.  I find that most kids, especially my Viv, just want your attention so you can teach them new things all the time just by talking and playing with them.
  
  Thanks Mom for the reminder!  You have taught me a lot!

 

• Kirk and I went grocery shopping over the weekend and there was an attractive, young girl making her purchases.  The checkout boy and bag boy were both drooling over her, especially the bag boy.  The young lady seemed to love the admiration she was receiving.  I was clueless to the happenings as I was crossing off my list and looking for coupons.  Kirk, however, overheard their conversation and remarked how juvenile they were being.  I replied that he was probably like that at their age too.  Then Kirk says that no, actually, he never liked to give women who were too good-looking any attention or affections because most often it leads to trouble or an obviously attractive female may just be too needy and too materialistic.  (He quickly followed that up with the fact that he thinks I'm beautiful, by the way).  I told him that his theory is probably accurate -- that women who are used to getting lots of attention are most likely the needy type.  We then reflected back to our early courtship days -- how he thought I was very attractive in a less obvious, more confident way and how I thought he seemed so wordly yet boyish, compared to now.  I think Kirk gets better looking with age, as many men do.   We then said some mushy love stuff that I won't repeat here.  I sure do love my husband though.  And his random observations.
  
  Who knew that Kirk and I could have such intellectual conversation just by going to the grocery store?  ;-)

• I like to play event coordinator.  In fact, Kirk even nicknamed me "event coordinator" for our family.  If you tell me where you live (city), I bet I can find a dozen or more interesting things to do and see, including a club, festival or obscure event that you may have never even heard of yourself.  Sometimes I research fun things to do for my friends who live in other states.  With the internet, local newspapers, bookstore fliers, etc, there's just no excuse for not going out and seeing the world around you and meeting new people!!  In the past several days, I discovered a local "Painting Party" event where you bring friends to a paint class and you can learn to draw a picture while drinking wine and cheese.  I've done this before in another city I lived in and it's a lot of fun!  I also found a self defense workshop that I want to take later this summer.  In addition, I found a literary arts foundation full of volunteers that perform readings, plays and other "artsy" stuff throughout the year for retirement homes, schools and libraries.  I plan to look into that soon as it sounds very intriguing to me.  All of these things were written in local publications or printed online.  They were not hard for me to find!  So don't say you're ever bored!  Because unless you live in the middle of a desert or farm, there's got to be something in your area~

          Let me know if you need me to be your social event coordinator!  My fee is very affordable! 

• When the summertime comes, I become addicted to those frozen coffee drinks.  I want one at least every week.  Why do they make those caramel frappes so inviting?  I didn't even start drinking coffee at all until my mid-twenties and now I can't believe I had a life before it.  I don't need them every day but I sure do enjoy them once in awhile, especially on weekends.  I prefer McDonald's over Starbucks -- cheaper and quicker drive-thrus.  Of course, an ice cold beer or margarita is also very nice during the hot months too.  Or just anytime of the year!  :-) 
  
  Do you indulge in coffee?  Do you have any special summertime drinks or treats?

That's all I can think of for now.  Ask me a random question and I promise to answer you back.  You can ask me anything you want!  Go on..... you know you want to quiz me!  Please share something random about you or your week in the comments section.  I love hearing from you and it will help keep my focus off my post-surgery headaches. 

Rock Bottom, Recovery

My spirits have been very low the past few days but I'm fighting to pull them back up again.  I had this post in my head since Friday but I mentally couldn't type and form the sentences until now.  I also had several alternate titles for this post.  Lines such as: "The Awful Truth About Surgery," "I've Been To Prison and Back,"  "Detox from Pain Meds," and the unforgettable one,"Did I Just Violate Myself?"

However, as the fog lifted and I threw out the prescription drugs, I changed it to "Rock Bottom, Recovery," because that is where I was and where I am today.  I hit rock bottom physically, mentally and spirtually for several days but now I'm focused on my recovery and feeling better again. 

I suppose it's safe to assume that I've lived a mostly charmed life until now.  I have never dealt with any medical issues.  I even had one of the easiest pregnancies and labor/deliveries that I know about.  So I never thought a simple outpatient procedure like my gallbladder removal would knock me off my feet like this.  I had no inclination that I'd be crying and doubling over in pain.  The surgery itself was fairly quick and I didn't feel a thing.  But going home and being on medicines afterwards is what inflicted me with trouble.

Pain medication and I don't mix.  We're like that awful oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico right now.  I feel as if I'm going through detox now.  My brain was so cloudy with thoughts for three days.  I had awful headaches and frightening dreams, including one where a snake bit me and another one where a swarm of bees were chasing after me, trying to sting me.  Oh no, I'm NOT kidding! 

I also found myself repeating things a lot.  Did I mention that I thought I sometimes heard a ringing in my ears too?  I felt drowsy and out of it for more than half the day.  I was cranky and emotional, more than usual anyway. 

But the absolute worst part of pain meds is the constipation!!!  You know how I love to poop and I have shared many poop stories and the potty training process with you on here.  I have no shame about it.  But when I can't poop and when I'm crying and praying in order to have a release, I've hit rock bottom.  When my dear, sweet mother-in-law has to suddenly drive to the drugstore to buy me laxatives, I've hit rock bottom.  When I'm giving myself an enema (aka the violating myself reference mentioned above) and thinking this isn't so bad, I've hit rock bottom. When I later exclaim that an enema must be one of the best inventions ever, I've HIT ROCK BOTTOM, FOLKS.

That is what I meant when I say "I've gone to prison" now and "I've taken one for the team". 

And those effects that come after the enema..... well, I promised Kirk that I wouldn't blog about that....  I mean, really?  NO ONE WANTS TO HEAR ABOUT THAT!  Revealing those details would be a new low, even for me!   So, I'll just say this -- I now have an idea what it must be like to give birth through my bunghole.  And I'll leave it at that.


HELLO!  WELCOME TO ROCK BOTTOM.  WE HOPE YOU'LL STAY AWHILE! 

And I know that these awful moments of mine aren't as bad as what other folks have been through and are still going through with illnesses, diseases and such.  I know I shouldn't complain. 

But it was, by far, one of the worst days and moments of my life. Therefore, I want to remember it.  I want to talk about it.  I want to write about it.  I'll be happy to tell anyone about what I've experienced. 

Why?  Why the hell don't I just keep my mouth shut and forget this ever happened?  Umm....you don't know me very well or at all....do you? 

As crazy as it may sound, I think my life is worth sharing.  I want to remember it, even the awful times.  These crappy, literally crappy, moments humble me.  If I ever hit rock bottom again like this, then I can say.... "Well, I've been through this already, so I can manage it once again!"

 When Negative Nellie parks her bottom on my shoulder continually nagging me, I can slowly gain the strength to kick her off.  And believe me, she's not easy to get rid of!  She was just telling me yesterday how I'm weak.  How it's sad that I was completing Jillian Michaels workouts five days a week in March and now I am out of breath just going to the grocery store or talking on the phone. 

Negative Nellie was mocking my incisions and bruises, telling me what a ugly belly I now have.  Negative Nellie was saying how sickly I look when I seemed the portrait of health just months ago.  That witch Nellie was teasing me for having to lay down after reading and watching television for a half-hour because my brain couldn't take the strain for more than that.  Negative Nellie was throwing my monthly challenges back in my face telling me I won't be ready in June to start that up again either.  (and sadly, I think she's right!)

Meet the face of Negative Nellie

This is going to be an uphill battle. I know I have long days ahead of me.  Hours of arguing with Negative Nellie to see who will triumph.

I'm feeling better and a bit stronger each day.  But my weakened spirit is still amputated.  I'm working hard to free her legs again.  In the meantime, I'm channeling Al Pacino as Lt. Col Frank Slade and saying his "Hoo-hah!" speech to myself over and over again.  Nothing like a little Pacino to lift my amputated spirit, just as he did for young, budding and hunky actor Chris O'Donnell.

I'll be around though.  I'll just be clinging to my lifesaver when I need to.  Just like the images pasted across this blog show. 

That is how I felt when I started this blog -- a bit like I was grasping for air, about to drown most days.  I've come a long way since then though. 

I may be down but I'm not out.  So just bare with me, please.  I'm fighting my way back to an even better Mandy that I know I can be, once I get through all this crap first.  :-)

Top Ten Things I've Learned (So Far) Since My Post-Surgery Experience

Here we go - the top ten things I have learned (so far) since the surgical removal of my gallbladder. 

I'm writing this half-medicated now.  So I hope it makes sense:

10.  Pain medication post-surgery makes me feel and speak like the character Jeff Spicoli from "Fast Times at Ridgemont High".  Can you say stoner?  Dumb-arse?  Cloud sixty-nine, but in a non-gratifying way?  

9.  I am a hideous beast post-surgery.  In fact, now would be the perfect opportunity for me to try out for a role in a Tim Burton film.  No costume or makeup would be needed.  For my particular case, I could play a pale, five-month pregnant looking zombie with a swollen belly.  Across my stomach, I'm wearing four bloody scars and a neon yellow urine-looking substance that seems to be permanently stamped across my chest and hips.  Oh yes, I'm that pretty ya'll!  :-)

8.   My child sure seems sweet and loving as she is curling up next to me in bed.  The diva is giving me hugs and kisses.  However, I've quickly learned that it is simply her plot to steal my covers, take all my crackers and sneak bites of my applesauce for herself.  Thank you considerate daughter of mine!

7.  Pain medication can often cause me to repeat myself.

6. Passing gas and going to the bathroom by myself are the two high points of my day.

5.  Pain medication can often cause me to repeat myself.

4. Taking a warm shower is my current replacement for eating a box of chocolates or having an orgasm.

3.  I am begining to think I could write children's songs, what with all the current ringing in my ears and the new uncontrollable clicking sounds I can't stop making with my tongue.  Soon after, I will be working on a new dance to go along with the lyrics-- moves that include mimicing shoulder throbbing pain, vomitting and sitting down on the toilet.  It will be all the rage!

2. Pain medication can often cause me to repeat myself. 

1. That vomit bucket the hospital gave me before I left will actually make a very nice measuring cup in the kitchen when this whole awful experience is said and done. 

Penis Straws and Sex Change Operations

What do I have on my mind just before I go into surgery to remove my gallbladder today?  Penis straws and sex change operations, of course!  What else would I be thinking of?

The penis straw image comes from my friend, CM, who wrote to me asking if I needed anything just before my procedure.  I wrote back telling her she could perhaps just come over to watch a movie and keep me company. 

Her response was, "Ooooooh, we can watch Sex and the City!!! I'll bring the penis straws!"  Oh my, I died laughing when I read her note to me this morning!  It was just what I needed to hear before going under the knife.  Now I can keep an image like this (posted below) in my head instead of tweezers ripping out my gallbladder:

Thanks CM! 

The sex change operation thoughts and visuals came to me courtesy of my own wonderful husband Kirk.  As we woke up together in bed this morning, he leaned over to hug me. 

Then he gave me the following tip:

Kirk:  "You know, it could be worse.  You could be Cher's daughter Chastity having multiple sex change operations.  You could be Chaz.  That would be worse than having your gallbladder removed." 

Mandy: "Is this your pep talk to me?"

Laughter follows from both of us.   

But he's right, it could definitely be worse! 

Don't you wish you had a husband and friends like me?  :-)  I know, I'm pretty damn lucky!  

I'm feeling much better.  I'm ready to face the world with one less organ now! 

I'm Getting Rid Of An Organ Tomorrow, What Will You Be Doing?

Friends will ask me, "So, Mandy, what did you do this week?"

And I'll reply, "Oh not much.... made a strawberry pie, had my gallbladder organ removed and did some laundry.  How about you?"

At least that is what I hope to be saying after Tuesday.  I also hope I'm saying those words in a casual manner, like it's just part of my daily routine. 

I mean, after all, that is how the doctors, nurses and other folks seem to treat surgery these days.  Like it's a casual exchange, as simple and quick as using the drive-thru window of a fast food restaurant.... 

"I'll take some fries with that gallbladder removal, thank you.  Also, throw in a chocolate shake too when you're done closing up the incisions, please."

I'm trying to have a sense of humor about all this since tomorrow, (Tuesday, May 11th) is my outpatient surgical procedure to have my gallbladder removed.  But....I must admit that I'm feeling nervous. 

I know it's the #1, most commonly performed surgery in today's medical age.  I know it's a simple, minimally invasive operation and the scars should be small.  I know that I have chosen a competent surgeon who has already performed somewhere between 600 and 1,000 of these gallbladder removals already in his career.  Therefore, I believe I'm in good hands.

Still.... I'm NERVOUS! 

There are always some risks involved in surgery.  There are always those "what-if's" that might go wrong: bleeding, blood cuts, slicing another organ, etc. etc.   I worry about how the pain medication will affect me, how Kirk will handle taking care of his two girls -- both the diva and the queen.  I worry that Vivian won't understand why mommy can't lift her or play with her much for several days. 

In my common sense state of mind, I know everything will be fine.  I'm not having open heart surgery and I don't have a deadly disease of any sort.  The recovery time should be a day or so.  No big deal.  Right?  Well that's what I keep telling myself anyway.


Still, when I look at the pamphlet on laparoscopy and see how they use a device that looks like tweezers that will detach my gallbladder from my liver, I think.... "How is this possible?  And how is it that after an entire organ is removed from my body (even though it's a useless one, apparently), I'll be home a few hours afterwards?"  It just baffles me!

So I've put away the medical pamphlet.  I've stopped reading about the procedure and recovery expectations.  Because frankly, sometimes ignorance is bliss and less stressful, if you know what I mean.  Sometimes too much preparation just leads to more worry.  That seems to be the case with me anyway.


Instead I'll just leave it all in the hands of my capable doctor and his staff.  And I'll close here with this friendly, farewell letter to my gallbladder:

Dear Gallbladder,

The time has come for us to part ways. I’ll never forget the vomit and pain you caused me for the past year. 

Remember how I would just be sitting at my old work desk in Alabama then I'd get the sudden urge to regurgitate or defecate?  You liked to surprise me with whichever one you felt like giving me.  Ahh, the fun times!  Thanks for the memories.

I'll never know why you stuck around for so long since apparently you are of no use to me or my other vital organs.  I guess you just liked the bile parties day in and day out.  You liked the power you had along with my liver and my small intestine. 

Those times - they are a changing though!  On May 11th, I hope you enjoy being yanked suddenly from your cozy bed.  I hope you enjoy being detached from your B-F-F, Lenny the liver.  I hope you feel the twinge as you're being plucked with a pair of medical tweezers.  Then I hope you gasp while being pulled apart.  In addition, I hope you feel the cold hands examine your nakedness in the pathology lab.  Then finally, I hope you feel the burn as you are incinerated with your demise.

With love,

Mandy

-----------------------------------------------


WAIT!  Was that too morbid and disgusting!?  Yeah, I guess it was....

How about this one instead?





Dear Gallbladder,

Thanks for the memories.  I wish you well as you move on to a less crowded place and warmer climate.


With love,
Mandy


------------------------------------------------


I hope to be on here later this week with stories of how I'm feeling great, how Kirk is feeding me breakfast in bed and that gallbladder removal is actually a fun experience!  Ummm, yeah, we'll see about that.... 

Stay tuned....


 

The Fruits Of My Labor

I've been sorting, washing and slicing over ten pounds of strawberries picked from a local farm this week!  Talk about fully understanding the expression, "the fruits of one's labor" now!!! 

This manual labor comes perfectly as Mother's Day is fast approaching.... because of course I've been thinking a lot about my own 2.5 year old, 32-pound bittersweet berry named Vivian.  I say she's bittersweet because that describes her perfectly. 

In fact, the word "bittersweet" describes motherhood for me too -- a combination of bitter moments and sweet moments.   Lately, it's been more sweet than bitter though, thankfully!  :-) 

These photos below demonstrate that as well -- a sweet moment of mother/daughter bonding in a strawberry field.  But at the particular moment when the picture was taken, Vivian has a bitter expression on her face....  Hilarious and priceless at the same time!





This just proves that you can be having a grand time and one of you (you, your child or both) can turn sour for whatever reason.  However, you keep picking, pulling and working the fruits of your labor.  That's what life is about!  You work hard but you also need to stop and savor the sweet moments. 

And you don't have to give birth to another human being to know what I'm talking about.  You may not be a traditional mom.  However, I bet you've been a "mother" to a pet, a neice, nephew, a co-worker, a friend in need or whatever. 

As women, we have those nurturing, caring instincts.  They may surprise us from time to time but they are there.  In my opinion, the compassion of a woman has no boundaries.  Of course, cross us ladies, and we'll strike like the bitter taste of a snake too.  That's what makes us great!  :-)

But if you do happen to have children and call yourself a "mom," then you understand that labor of love I mentioned above.  Especially when I refer to Viva the diva as my bittersweet berry.  There are moments when you just don't know how you can do it, how you can go on being a mommy.  It's just so friggin' hard sometimes.  Then there are the tender moments that you just cherish so very much!

In the bitter times, you want to hand your child over to someone else, give her back or just walk away, especially while she's screaming.  There are certainly those moments when you feel that way.  There are times of regret.... times where you maybe wish you didn't have a child or children.  Moments of guilt and selfishness.  Moments of such frustration and angst.  A lot of folks don't talk about the ugly side of motherhood, but believe me, it's there!  It greets you when you least expect it!

On the flip side, there are also such incredible, joyful surprises of motherhood too.  Wonderful moments that you just never thought were even possible.  There are minutes, hours and even days when you laugh non-stop.  You'll cry too, but sometimes those tears are from laughing or happy exchanges.  You watch this little being grow and change right before your eyes and it's really amazing.  And when you see your own personality come out of this tiny person, you crack up and shake your head in disbelief!

Sometimes I look at my kid and tears flood to my face out of nowhere.... the love I feel for her.  I just didn't think that was possible.  I often consider myself a selfish person so to love another human being as much as I love my Viv, well, I just didn't know that it could be this way....  Yeah, I am a complete sap now, who knew??

For me, the labor I endured to have Vivian is worth the trouble she caused me (so far).  I can't believe I'm saying this but she is worth the forty plus pounds I gained.  Worth the first year where I didn't much like her.  Worth losing my identity because I found a new, better one.  Worth the headaches and gray hairs she has caused me.  She's even worth causing me to have gallbladder surgery (scheduled for Tuesday, May 11th by the way) -- yes my doctor confirmed that she's half the reason my organ is malfunctioning -- yet another joy of pregnancy! 

Vivian is my greatest fruit that I've labored so far.  And I can even see myself laboring again someday, to give Vivian a younger peach or blueberry that she can play with and boss around.  :-) 

Happy Mothers Day to everyone out there!  May you enjoy the fruits of your labor, no matter what they are -- children, pets, your job, your works of art, writings, books, clothing, movies, or life in general!  Just enjoy! 


P.s. - If you're looking for a fantastic list of strawberry recipes, check out my friend Candi's compilation of best strawberry cakes, pies, smoothies, etc.  You won't be disappointed! 

Surgery Is On. May Challenge Is Postponed (for now).

I've got good news and bad news to share.  More good than bad though, so don't you fret!

The good news is that doctors have finally found the answer to my health issues.  Remember awhile back when I hinted around to having some minor health concerns? 

Well, after two trips to the emergency room, one abdominal ultrasound, one EGD down my throat, one HIDA scan, three urine samples, one hilarious stool sample story, and several collections of bloodwork later, the results are in.... I have biliary dyskinesia which is just a fancy term that means my gallbladder isn't functioning properly and needs to come out. 

In fact, that weak, little organ of mine is operating at only 10% right now.  Cue orchestra!  Listen to the big crescendo coming! 

Yes..... It's all making sense now.... the chronic stomach "bugs" since last year, the diarrhea every month, the feelings of nausea, the random, sudden urges to vomit.   It wasn't food poisoning.  It wasn't something viral I caught from visiting my daughter's day care.  Plus, we already established I wasn't pregnant on three different occasions either.  Nope, this whole time it has been that pesky gallbladder sucking the life out of me instead. 

My gallbladder decided it doesn't give a monkey's uncle or a rat's ass about me anymore.  He's on strike.  He's on the sidelines now yelling something about unfair, long working hours, without overtime pay. 

The bad news, unfortunate news, is that Gall-ey B (a.k.a. my galll bladder) is going down!  Gall-ey B will be gone from my life!  As soon as I find a reliable surgeon, I'm scheduling the surgery to remove him.  The good for nothing bastard.

The other sad thing is that alternative, "natural" options aren't really for me.  My family doctor who has no investment or boat payments to make if I have the surgery or not told me plain and simple, "No amount of herbs or changes to (my) diet will make (your) gall bladder function any better, not in any reasonable amount of time where (you) can be comfortable."  

At least he gave it to me straight!  And my pain has gotten worse.  As I sit here and type this post, the throbbing and aching is continual in my abdomen, upper shoulder blade and back (a common side effect for gall bladder problems).  Since Saturday, I am bloated and unusually full after every meal I consume, even something simple like nibbling on my Triscuit reduced fat crackers.  I am not hungry or I'm extremely ravishing.  My food doesn't even taste good to me anymore.  I HATE THIS! 

But hey, back to the good news!  Gall bladder removal is a fairly simple, routine procedure using a laparoscope.  It's one of the most common surgeries and requires no overnight hospital stay.  I've talked to a half dozen friends who've had it, all of which had no side effects or regrets since having their gallbladders ripped out. 

So, I'm optimistic for the most part.  I'm happy to have some answers after an exhausting couple of months.  Actually this has been going on for over a year now.  When I think back to all my cases of vomitting and diarrhea, I've been dealing with this for almost eighteen months now.  So it is a relief to know the cause and not feel like I'm crazy or should be on the television show, "Mystery Diagnosis."

The good news is that I'm ready to feel better again and make plans for the future.  It's hard to plan ahead when you never know how you'll be feeling.  I'm happy to see light at the end of the tunnel and not feel like a train will be waiting for me. 

Of course the bad news again is that my gallbladder ruined my fun plans for Mother's Day weekend.  I was ready, set, about to go on another trip to Louisiana to see family and friends.  I was scheduled to attend a wedding, see my mom for her 60th birthday and sing happy third birthday to my nephew at his party.  But, No! 

I was ready to show off the new dress and cute heels I bought.  I wanted to hug old friends I haven't seen in over a year.  I was ready to do some dancing and show off the twenty pounds I lost this past six months!  But, No! 

Alas, it wasn't meant to be...  My doctor has advised me it that I should not travel far from home, given my condition.  And I hate to say it, but he's right.  I don't feel up to doing those things even though I want to, very badly in fact!

The good news is that I can always do those things later.... well, except for attend that wedding and the birthday party.  But I can do the rest when I'm feeling 100%, not 10% like how I feel now. 

The bad news is that with all this going on -- doctors visits, surgery and resting, I really can't dedicate the month of May to do my "Find Roots, Plant Seeds" challenge that I just told you about.  I can't spend days and hours researching the history of my community and planting seeds to make a real home here.  I probably shouldn't be doing much manual labor in my garden either.  Not with my current stomach and back pain.   So I'm afraid that I have to cancel my May monthly challenge since I just can't give it my all like I hoped for. 

Good news, though -- I can try to do it in June instead.  Or later in the year!  What's the harm in postponing it for a month or two when I can go full force with it?  And with a lighter stomach and no more gas either?  Won't the Pensacola historians and professors be thankful for that when I meet with them?  Wink, wink!  

I mean, it's my challenge, my blog.  These are health circumstances beyond my control.  I shouldn't feel guilty over it.  In fact, when you think about it.... I'm practically a renaissance woman already!  After all, in March, I ran my first ever 5k race and received fourth place in my age category, with a barely functioning gallbladder!  Take that Gall-ey B and fitness skeptics!

And let's face it, my bad news isn't even bad news....  With all the problems in the world and the people who are truly suffering, my little rebellious gallbladder is such a minor concern.  He'll move on to a better place very soon and so will I. 

Let's tip our hats and beer glasses to that, shall we? ---  To moving on to a better place, to having good news and to feeling healthy again! 

Hmm, maybe a glass of beer isn't the photo of health.... but oh well, you get the point!  

I'll be around somewhat but I'll be absent a lot this month too.  I just want to relax and stay comfortable until I have the surgery.  Thanks to all of you who have written me or sent me healthy wishes so far.  It means more to me than you know!   Cheers!