tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61965419527327099122024-02-07T15:43:39.598-05:00When Mommy HurtsA SAH/WAH mom of 3 boys and wife struggling with daily activities due to the painful and exhausting condition know as Fibromyalgia, as well as Anxiety, and Depression both separate and related to Fibromyalgia.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-45792766993331962012012-07-09T09:55:00.002-04:002012-07-09T09:58:00.900-04:00Heat Wave 2012Here in Michigan the 100 degree temperatures have finally ended as of yesterday Sunday, July 8th. Most of the United States has been or is still under the heat wave. For most people it is hot and somewhat uncomfortable, for us with Fibromyalgia it is at a higher level. With Fibromyalgia we don't adjust as well to changes in temperatures especially extreme ones.<br />
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Many of you probably feel hotter then others around you, sweat more, and are just more miserable. As it affects our bodies it affects our mood as well. We feel guilty as we may be flaring and not able to make dinner, do laundry and other chores. We may also not be able to participate in other activities and have to just sit and watch or be left at home by ourselves, which causes us to become depressed and feel worthless.</div>
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For me I was miserable with the heat. I was sweating way more then I normally would, though some of my medicines cause that for my Anxiety and Depression. I just felt gross. I would get where I felt sick no matter how I tried to cool off. I even started drinking Powerade Zero. I have never liked these beverages, but need to try anything to feel OK.</div>
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Now for my Fibromyalgia, other the exhaustion it was not too bad and that may have just been the heat. Now yesterday we had our front move through with cooler temperatures in the 80's and that is when my back went into spasms and to touch me anywhere hurts. It is probably a change in the temperatures as it was dramatic and the barometric meter readings may change. That is the pressure in the air. </div>
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Yesterday I medicated for the pain. I have not yet done so today, but am thinking I may have to as I can barely move. I am also tired as the pain kept me awake as i don't like to take the pain medicine with my nightly medicines. Something I need to check with my doctors on as far as any interactions. </div>
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Hopefully this is the biggest change we have to go though this summer. I am not sure what we can do to help the Fibromyalgia symptoms in the heat, but will be doing research especially when I see temperatures looking to rise again. For now if you are still in the part of the country that is part of the heat wave still, drink fluids, rest a lot, and try to be in air conditioning. Don't over exert as it will hurt you later whether you have Fibromyaglia or not.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-47848123816396372472012-06-06T11:53:00.001-04:002012-06-06T11:53:25.457-04:00Two Scary IncidentsI want to post an entry into this blog again as times have been tough for me as I am sure it is for you with Fibromyalgia, Depression, and Anxiety. This week in particular has been very hard with my emotions and that then turns into a lot of physical pain. Physical pain then plays with your emotions. For me right now my mental health is the worst, and what makes that even worse is because of ankle surgery it is hard to be proactive with things like exercise that will help me mentally.<br />
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This week has been very scary. In the last two days I have had two experiences that really scared me and one was quite stupid. I was ready to confront and take down a guy on a motorcycle who cut me off as he was going the wrong way, then blocked me. I would have got out of my van and took him down if I had not just had a new cast put on. I did engage in an argument with him and really truly told him off. I normally avoid any and all confrontations. It was almost like I was out of my body or mind. It was not me.<br />
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Second was last night after Jacob's baseball game. We came home and I was fed up with the boys not listening, back talking, etc. I started yelling and screaming until I realized what I was doing, then I went to the bedroom. For some reason I came back out and the kids were fighting and yelling at me like how dare I ask them to do their chores. I had enough. I said, "I am leaving". I went and put on my shoe and walked out the door and started down the road.<br />
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Ed chased me down, not that it was hard since my left leg is in a cast. He stopped me and calmed me down and talked me back to the house. Once he got me in the house he guided me to the bedroom and told me to stay there and he would deal with the kids. Of course the guilt came in. I had actually planned dinner and was going to cook till I couldn't find dishes or clean ones as the boys will not do them right. That is what set me off. So I did not cook. The boys had sandwiches or something of the like, Ed ate cereal and when I calmed down I ate a little bit of carmel corn. <br />
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I am very drained physically and emotionally. I am afraid to drive or be in public alone (without Ed). Even when I do get out I can only be out for a short period of time or things like the above happen. I have missed some of the boys games because I just can't go out of the house. Sometimes I can't even leave the bedroom. I feel so checked out and not there like I should be as a wife, mom, and friend. <br />
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If you have an mental issues don't be embarrassed. Get help. It is an illness and nothing to be ashamed of. I am trying to bring more awareness to it as I believe so many don't get help that need to. Even though I have had help for years I still wore down. I am being treated now in different ways and have a long road ahead, but I know one thing. I cannot ever give up the fight. I have too many blessings not to fight and you do too if you look for them.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-45499532004390410922012-05-08T14:38:00.000-04:002012-05-08T14:38:20.776-04:00Missing Caleb's 1st Baseball Game of the SeasonI know my blog has changed off the subject of raising kids with Fibromyalgia and focusing on anxiety and depression. The same premise is here though. Talking about raising kids, in my case 3 boys, when mom suffers from pain. Anxiety and Depression do go very much hand in hand with Fibromyalgia. I will be talking about them both as they are major things in my life.<br />
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I promised myself that this week I would see Jacob's and Caleb's first baseball games of the season if nothing else. Well I don't think that is going to happen. I am a mess today. I can barely leave the bedroom, much less the house. I called my husband, Ed and talk to him. He assures me that Caleb will be OK. It is his first game tonight and I don't think I am going to be able to get the courage up to go.<br />
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Last night I was at Jacob's game which was great. Though I was anxious and nervous the whole time. Why, I couldn't tell you. Ever since I went into the hospital I have been developing the fear of going places and driving. I am going to try to make Caleb's next game on Thursday if I can't get myself together to go tonight. I have surgery on Friday and the next week I probably won't go to any, then Nicholas's games start and I will have to take him unless he can catch a ride. It won't be easy but I have to.<br />
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I really scares me to suddenly be afraid of driving or going out in public. Shoot I can't even just go outside hardly and today I don't want to leave the bedroom. My therapist thinks is may be a bit of post traumatic from driving during the major meltdown and that it all started to come to a head in a large store. It is just really confusing as I have always been independent going places and doing things. Now I feel like a huge failure to myself, my husband, and my boys.<br />
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Now if Ed is driving I tend to do OK. Though anxiety creeps in at time like if the traffic is too heavy or something like that. I am lucky to have a husband that is such a rock for me. He is always positive and wants to know what to do to help. I wish I knew. <br />
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It just breaks my heart that I am such a mess and that I am missing things. I also am having trouble taking care of things like cooking and laundry. Everything is just too much these days. I know for my guys I have to take this time to heal, but it is just so hard when I feel that I am letting them down and can't be the mom and wife I want to be. <br />
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No matter what illness or illnesses you suffer from, being a mom makes them hard, from not resting enough to feeling you have let everyone down. Fibromyalgia, Anxiety, Depression, Stress and other invisible diseased make it harder as others don't understand. So I hope by telling my stories not only am I getting therapy of getting it out, I hope you can relate to something and know you are not alone.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-52199503460390621372012-05-01T16:42:00.000-04:002012-05-01T16:42:09.815-04:00Bad Scoring and Slight Agoraphobia NowWe as moms with or without any debilitating thing are so stressed. I feel like I am still falling apart despite medicine changes and therapy. I am just so impatient. I know this is going to be a long road for me to get back to myself so I can be everything I want to be; a great wife, mom, and friend.<br />
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I am really happy and I am happy I have finally found and am receiving the help I need. That said, it is so overwhelming. Today in therapy my therapist had me take the Breck Test I think it is called. On one the anxiety part I score moderate, not the greatest. On the depression part I got a 54 I think it was with 64 being the worst and something like 29 being moderate. As you can see it is really going to take a commitment to feel better. I am determined though no matter how long or what it takes.<br />
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I am also starting to develop a bit of agoraphobia he said. I am afraid to drive or go out in public. I am definitely in an avoidance phase with this. Like tonight my wonderful husband has to manage all 3 boys baseball schedules while coaching too as I cannot get myself to go.<br />
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I had to stop and pull myself together on the way home from therapy after a car pulled out in front. I burst into tears and start a panic attack. I start back on my way home only to go a block and have another car pull out in front of me making me slam on the brakes once again. Now I am shaking, crying, and thinking of just getting out of the van. But somewhere deep down I was able to keep myself going as I knew that was not rational, but it is very scary when this happens.<br />
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I am happy Edward took tomorrow off work to go with me to my pre-op appointment for my ankle surgery. I was really getting terrified about driving into Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti in the morning. I don't know if he took it off for this reason or because he wants to work on the bedroom and just wants to go along for support. After my short drive home from Chelsea I am so happy he will be with me, probably driving.<br />
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I feel like I am disappointing my family so much. It is hard not to be able to handle the boys stuff, cook, clean, etc. I know depression and anxiety are diseases like all others but I have guilt building even though getting better is what I need to be focused on. I love my guys so much and feeling like an outsider looking in is probably the hardest part of everything I go through.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-20523293803668280662012-04-23T15:14:00.000-04:002012-04-23T15:14:16.360-04:00Long road, tiny steps is how I have to look at life right now. End goal is the end of the long road. Daily goals are the small steps. I must be patient and let medicine work and therapy guide me back to the real me. It is hard and I hate it as I am happy, but my brain says otherwise. <br />
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I know I blog here a lot about Fibromyalia, but along with that I suffer from Depression and Anxiety as most do with Fibromyalgia. Right now Depression and Anxiety have the best of me. I am exhausted not only from all this, but the medicines as well. I can hardly pull myself out of bed, and most days fall asleep mid afternoon. I am not doing anything I absolutely don't have to. Some of that is good, some not so good.<br />
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I have developed anxiety about leaving the house, driving and going into a store. I only am going out when I have to. It is better if I go with someone, but alone is almost debilitating. Today I had to go see the <em style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px;">psychiatrist</em><em style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 16px;"> </em>and planned on getting us some groceries since this are getting pretty bare around here. I went to my appointment and as I talked with the doctor my anxiety grew. By time I left I was almost in panic. Not sure why. I know he is there to help. Maybe the thought of going to the store when I left. <br />
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As I got into the van and started driving the tears came. By time I was by the grocery store I knew there was no way I could go in alone if at all. I just kept driving towards home, crying the whole way. This is so new to me. I never really had trouble going anywhere even with my anxiety except maybe the doctor's office or a hospital. I want to stay home when I am alone. Maybe because it all happened at a large store, then I had to drive to the safety of my doctor's office then the E.R. <br />
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I feel so guilty and like a failure. Yes my brain knows I have an illness just like heart disease or diabetes, but it seems so different too. I know a lot about these conditions so I know it is a biochemical illness mostly in my case. I have not had major traumas or anything like that, but I do have a high family risk.<br />
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I am not ashamed like some are that suffer from Mental Illness. I know it is not anything I can control, but the negative feeling come up no matter how hard I try to put them away. I have been a bit public with my hospitalization so others no they are not alone, that it is OK to get help, and to bring more awareness to Depression and Anxiety.<br />
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So even though I have been on medicines for years and for the most part they have always worked, I look at being hospitalized as a new beginning for the long road, but it will need to be done in tiny steps. Sometimes the steps could be backwards in feeling even, but they are still steps to feel better.With something like Depression and Anxiety I will always struggle to some extent, but we can find a way to cope with it and live life normally, so never give up. Take every tiny step you need, to get to the end of the long road.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-87268423414203037562012-04-13T09:23:00.002-04:002012-04-13T09:23:44.663-04:00Hospitalization<br />
I ended up in the hospital, which was a great thing to start getting me back
to me again. I melted down big time and started to have fleeting thought of
suicide and just leaving my guys behind and go hide. I was extremely scared
that I lost it forever, but now I know I can get the help I have been trying to
get and with work I will be better.<br />
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I am concerned how it all affected my boys and my friend's daughter. All 4
were with me at Best Buy when I lost it. I cried from Ann Arbor to Chelsea and
kept thinking I could just ram the van into the car in front of me, but I didn't
and kept realizing that would hurt the kids and the other person so I kept an
extra safe distance. I stayed in one lane of the hwy and just focused on
getting to doctor's office.<br />
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Once at the doctor's I saw the psychologist I was seeing in the stress clinic
and he sent me immediately to the ER and then into in patient behavioral
health. I was anxious at first, but knew I was doing the right thing. As the
days when on I felt better, but still not quite right. Then Tuesday evening it
as a sudden change. I felt I was ready to come back home to my family and
friends and start the out patient part.<br />
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So Wednesday I stuck to the schedule they had for us, but worked towards
getting released. I was great to surprise the boys that mommy was home. I was
home alone yesterday and just relaxed and not worry about things around the
house. We headed out to get hubby's car and my phone back from Best Buy. That
was something I knew I need to do. I had my husband and boys for support and I
only got a few tears, but I walked back into that store with no panic attack.
Though we both got back and realized we did not pick up his car from the
hospital. I guess that will be tonight. <br />
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My reason for sharing this is not for you to feel sorry for me, but for you
to know if you get out of control there is help everywhere. It will be OK and
we don't need to hurt ourselves or others. Focus on warning signs too and get
help before it gets this out of control. It would be the easier fix, but even
at the point you are not in your so called "right" mind there is help. Listen
to others as well as your self. I know I am blessed with many who care and even
if you don't have a support system you can get one. <br />
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I am eager to start being my old self and restarting my life. You can have a
happy life and be depressed, suffer anxiety, and a slue of many other mental
illnesses. Don't allow others make you feel ashamed. Mental illness is a
disease just like heart disease or diabetes. Get help if needed and never, ever
give up.<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-21762497682400986392012-03-31T22:17:00.001-04:002012-03-31T22:18:22.985-04:00Driving With FibromyalgiaDriving with Fibromyalgia can be quite painful as we know, from uncomfortable seats, staying in one position for too long, and just the plain stress of driving. I just read an article which is posted and quoted below about driving with Fibromyalgia. It was part of an article about 4 common things that are easy for most, but not for us. As a mom of 3 very active boys, doing some contracting work for a dental equipment repair business, and a direct sales consultant I do spend a lot of time in our van.<br />
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One day out visiting dental offices or running the boys from one field to another with a possibility of another town thrown in really can make me hurt. It hurts to sit too long, especially behind the wheel when you can't even wiggle around some. Then having your arms up to hold the wheel cause neck, arm and upper back pain. Then the stress of people cutting you off, getting behind schedule because of a tractor (We live in the country.), now major construction project through our small town, not to count the issues of visiting the larger towns around when needed. I have just read something I never thought of Fibromyalgia to cause.<br />
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As you will see in excerpt from About.com below it is talking about Fibro Fog and driving. Forgetting where you are going, forgetting how to get somewhere, in bad cases disorientation. Fortunately I am not to the point where I feel I am an unsafe driver, but I do sometimes find myself not paying attention maybe as well as I should whether the boys are with me or not. I sometimes forget the area I just drove through and think "wow, how did I get here?". Those kind of things are scary to say the least. I never related it to my Fibromyalgia, but it made so much sense to me as I was reading. Even medications we take can make us a bit out of it and affect our driving. <br />
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Now I have realized this I feel it will make me a stronger driver. I will make sure I am more aware, not drive as much if possible when having a bad day physically because that will affect how we react, pay attention, and just driving in general. I haul very precious cargo many times that I am driving called Nicholas, Jacob, and Caleb. Edward too. Nothing would be worse then hurting them or someone else because I was out of it. I am pledging to look at myself more seriously as a Fibro Driver and hope you do as well. Read the clip below for full information I read and I hope it helps you be safe and protect those around you.<br />
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Driving<br />
Brain fog can be a major problem when you're behind the wheel. Some of us periodically forget where we're going or how to get there. Even worse, we may become disoriented and not know where we are.<br />
It's scary when this happens and can lead to an anxiety attack, which makes the situation even worse and can increase other symptoms.<br />
Some of us also have trouble paying attention to the myriad things that we need to while driving. We may not be able to process all the necessary information to be safe on the road.<br />
A small fraction of people with these illnesses stops driving completely. Some may have to limit their driving to familiar places, while others are okay most of the time but choose not to drive on especially bad days. It's a personal decision, but one that we need to be aware of to protect ourselves and others.<br />
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As you evaluate your driving ability, it may help to get input from friends and family members who've ridden with you, as they may have noticed things you didn't.</blockquote>
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http://chronicfatigue.about.com/od/copingwithfmscfs/a/4-Things-Its-Hard-To-Do-With-Fibromyalgia-And-Chronic-Fatigue-Syndrome.htm?nl=1</blockquote>
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A few tips I think would be helpful for us are driving only when rested. Also if you have a long drive, stop frequently, get out and stretch. One thing on my van I never had before is heated seats. This is great in the cold or on a painful day that I have to be out. Also in cold warm your vehicle up, in the hot weather start it with the air on so you don't have extreme temperatures that will make you hurt. Keep distractions to a minimum (good for all people), turn off cell or ignore it even with a headset, keep radio low or off especially if you have others in the car. I know too much noise driving or riding in a car makes me really irritable.. Irritability causes road rage and stress. We don't need that. Just a little input from me to keep us safe. Please comment if you have a safe or comfortable driving tip.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-16625095920498050192012-03-13T17:31:00.000-04:002012-03-13T17:31:13.089-04:00Paleo Diet Ok'd by DoctorToday was another doctor's visit. I went in as a follow up to twitching and the medicine another put me on when my primary was out of town. Nothing new to report really. My doctor wants to give me another month to let the medicine work to its fullest potential and see if it is making me tired as I have been having a really bad bout of the sleepy times this week. Worse then ever. Could be the medicine, but at the dose it shouldn't be but we all know we all react differently to medicines.<br />
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The main theory is that I am still coming off the stress of extra people in the house, even though I did not feel that much stress, the doctors say it is very stressful as routines are changed and we had the stress of helping support them. Now we are struggling a bit as we catch up and things are breaking, but we will be OK there, just the way life is for everyone.<br />
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I am reading up on diets for Fibromyalgia and hoping to get at least myself and hopefully the family to follow on eating in a healthful way. I know dinner is no option for them if I do the cooking, but would like them to follow a plan to eat better all the time too. Right now I am in the middle of reading the "Paleo Diet" book that was recommended to be by a friend when I said I wanted to start eating more cleanly. I had the book with me at the doctor's office today hoping to get in some reading time. My doctor saw it and told me it was a very good idea and can't really hurt to try.<br />
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As we discussed the so called caveman diet, I brought up reading about going Gluten-Free. He also said that is worth a try. So I think my goal is to finish reading the book by the weekend, get groceries to support this lifestyle and give it a whirl. I don't think I have much to lose except a lot of weight and maybe some pain. That is my hope. If it makes me feel better it will be much easier to stick to. I am sure I will have splurges, but they will need to be calculated. <br />
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With spring coming I need to start feeling better as our nights will be filled with baseball games and practice, along with a lot of running around. That on top of my Sales Representative position with Everley Dental Equipment Repair, LLC, and my home based business with Lindt Chocolate R.S.V.P. I need to have more energy and less pain. I hope a better eating plan will help. <br />
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I also know I need the exercise. I really want to try yoga and I found a place close by that is 2 times per week, but with baseball and Ed's schedule not sure I can do now, but I think I am going to try to start walking with our dog. He needs to lose weight too since he is sneaking into the cats food. I may just start with up and down our private drive and work up from there. A start is a start and it should be small as not to flare. Many think oh it is a good day I will do as much as I can instead of pacing themselves. All that does is backfires and makes you down for a longer time. Set small goals daily, do them, then rest.<br />
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So today I have learned eating better like we did thousands of years ago is a good thing, and that stress reduction in all lives is necessary. Even if you don't feel stress in our society you are. Some handle it better then others so never judge a person until you have lived it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-50765272999244057672012-02-22T21:52:00.001-05:002012-02-22T21:52:42.244-05:00Share and EducateI feel it is really important to educate those that are close to you about your chronic conditions be it Fibromyalgia, Anxiety, Depression, or any other chronic condition you suffer from. Without educating your family and friends they cannot begin to understand what you are going through and why you may be acting a certain way. It is easy to find information on any condition via the Internet or asking your doctor. It may even be good for them to find a support group to help the learn more and be able to talk with other who support loved with chronic conditions.<br />
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I decided I needed to blog about this after last night. I had what I call a meltdown. Everything came pouring out. I was crying, babbling, and in a very scary spot for those around me. My Fibromyalgia, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression got the best of me yesterday. I was even so dizzy I fell back into the closet door and bruised my back.<br />
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Last night when I calmed down and such I vented some on Facebook so I did not put as much on my family, though my husband, Ed, was right by me during the whole episode. After all the concern from friends and then Ed checking in on me today because he was worried I realized just what I put everyone through. When I worry and scare my husband I know it was bad as he is not a worrier. Yes the opposite of me.<br />
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I have read articles about talking with family and friends about your conditions. I have had Ed and Nicholas, my oldest son read a few that are for the support people of a person suffering from the conditions I suffer from. But after I chatted with my husband I have decided he needs to learn more not only to be educated, but to help me when I have these meltdowns. They need to learn during this period of emotional breakdown I am having I need to be loved, understood, and not pressured to be something I am not. These are real conditions and something we cannot snap out of and for me it usually will affect me for a few days after the episode.<br />
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So while we focus on ourselves, which is extremely important it is also important to sit down and talk to those that care about us. Find information from Internet articles, books, or taking them to the doctor with you if you are comfortable with that. They need help understanding what we go through on a daily basis. We also need to be considerate of their feelings. Communication is the key to helping everyone have the best information to help with each others needs. Please check my link section for some areas to start, then branch out on what is specific to you personally. Also please feel free to share links in the comment section. Let's help each other while helping those we love understand.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-40419808309940939222012-02-21T12:59:00.001-05:002012-02-21T13:00:03.177-05:00Taking ChargeIt is time for me to take charge of my health so I can feel better, be the wife and mom, and friend I want and need to be. My in laws are now gone and I am going to start my better lifestyle any day now. Eating better and some sort of exercising is on the agenda.<br />
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I am also looking at going up to the University of Michigan to their Fibromyalgia or Chronic Pain Clinic. This was suggested by the psychologist in the doctor's office I have been seeing in the stress clinic. So I will get a referral from my primary doctor and get some help from some experts in the area. This is something I should have done quite a while back.<br />
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I am also trying to journal and keep track of feeling, pain, and anything whether it is good or bad. Even if it is just the date and time and one word describing how I feel like tire, pain, happy, or sad. This way I can look back and see how I have been doing overall.<br />
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I have also been told to set a daily affirmation. So when I wake up I tell myself at least one thing I will do that day. It can be as simple as I will get up and shower or that I will wash at least one load of laundry. The important thing to do when doing this is to set your affirmation that you know you are going to be successful at so you have the uplifting feeling of at least one accomplishment a day. Usually if it is a chore or something like that once I get it done I will do more, but be careful not to over do it and end up in a flare.<br />
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I am still working on this twitching. My doctor decided to cut my Cymbalta in 1/2. I am still twitching, but I can't tell for sure but I think it may have lessened. Not by amount but by intensity. It still scares me, but maybe I need to go off all serotonin stuff for a bit and hope I can deal with my anxiety and depression. Or maybe it is some of the things I have been doing to reduce stress. Either way, I will keep at it till gone as it really makes my body hurt and it prevents sleeping until I drop.<br />
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I am searching the web for a good lifestyle of food. I order the Paleo Diet book last night as I am looking to cut out preservatives, dyes, etc. I want to eat more natural. I know a lot about what is what, but I want to learn more so I can maybe still buy some prepared foods for those bad days or busy days and I am going back to a lot more cooking from scratch.<br />
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Yoga is a huge thing I am looking into. One place that is actually not too far away from me has added a second day so I think I may try a drop in class and see if it is for me. Since I have Fibromyalgia I need a class where you go at your own rate at one day I can touch my toes, but the next I may not be able to.<br />
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I am hoping by doing some of these things I will be able to keep up with my boys better, keep house up better and most important feel better. I suggest you try some of these things along with me and let me know how it helps you. I have been reading a lot online about sensitivities and Fibro Flares. If you have something to add, I would love to hear from you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-46293908289376846022012-02-14T22:00:00.005-05:002012-02-14T22:00:39.970-05:00Times have been tough. Too much going on and I have been having constant pain that is more then normal. I have not yet figured out if it is stress, weather, or just a normal flare that is a bit worse then normal. The past week has been a lot of bed time and doing nothing. Fortunately my sister in law and family are still here and have picked up my slack. Not sure how all this is going to work when they leave. I hope now things are starting to get back together, my guys and I will be able to keep it up.<br />
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Today I forced myself to go out to dental offices to sell handpiece repair service (everleyhandpiecerepair.com) I am working for a friend. It was an almost impossible task today. I have aches and pain where I don't normally have them, I think maybe from this twitching going on. Saturday I have to make myself go to a vendor show where I am premiering myself as a Lindt R.S.V.P. Chocolate Representative (www.mylindtchocolatersvp.com/shannonkurgin/), the dinner with friends for their anniversary. Hoping I will be at least a bit better by then.<br />
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I am going to have to figure out this pain and supposedly the in laws will be leaving by the end of the week. No more getting dinner made and help with the boys. That part has been wonderful. They took off the wallpaper in the Kitchen and Dining Room and painted it a nice cheerful color and help out a lot with getting the house in order. Just the office and part of our room is left. Thank you Ken and Ronni.<br />
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I never know when to call the doctor for the pain and when to tough it out. The biggest thing right now is the twitching. I think it is exhausting my muscles and causing the pain. My doctor has upped my Klonopin to 3 times per day and has me doing a stress clinic through the office. It is great and I got lot of great ideas, but with so many in the house not much me time for mediation and the like. I do have some "homework" I could get done, but with the pain it is hard. Just typing is hurting so journaling and making a plan to take care of me has been hard, but it is something I must do and want to do. I suggest everyone do this not only to keep track of your pain and other symptoms of fibromyalgia, but it can be a great release and as for the plan to care for yourself can't hurt.<br />
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So I will rest and see what I can do to feel better, but each day I intend to work through the pain some and do small tasks, and in small steps. I feel keeping going without over doing it is always your best bet. I am starting to take charge of my life and with fibromyalgia there may be down times, days, or weeks, maybe more, but it is a must to keep like going at a pace that you can handle.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-227469963644087062012-01-27T21:30:00.000-05:002012-01-27T21:30:12.071-05:00Helping In-laws, Burden or NotIt has been a very interesting start to 2012. We have had my sister in law and her family move in with us temporarily until they can get their income tax and move back to Florida where Ken, her husband will be able to find work since he does sprinkler systems. I was really stressed out before they got here about how we would all get a long and deal with a total of 6 kids between us, but it has not been bad at all.<br />
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One good thing about them being here is they are really helping out. Ronni and Ken have been a blessing getting our house back together after the tile project that took forever. I am starting to feel at home again and that I can enjoy our home. They have been doing the deep cleaning that I struggle with and may never have got it all done. <br />
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Another great thing is that I have really got to spend some good, quality time with our nephews Blake and Garrett and our niece Chloe. It is nice because the boys have never spent time with us. Chloe is spending time back and forth between us and my other sister in law. Chloe was a big part of our life when she was little and it is hard to believe she is 17 and almost grown up.<br />
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I am still physically in pain all the time and the twitching started back up and the doctor thinks this time it is stress. It started before everyone moved in so I know that is not the stress causing all the twitching. I will be going to the stress clinic in the doctor's office for starters at least. It is kind of scary and as many of you know that with Fibromyalgia along comes anxiety. My SIL is keep me in good spirits and keeping me from hiding in bed all day wallowing in self pity. Yet another good thing.<br />
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So the worry about helping out family and taking them in has not been an issue, at least not as of yet. It is actually a kind of blessing in disguise. We are helping each other and that is what family should be. I am very blessed to have a great family and great in laws. I think I will really miss them when they move on, but I know it will be good for us both to stand on our own.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-52405646112550022672011-12-27T12:11:00.001-05:002011-12-27T12:11:03.950-05:00Christmas ReviewChristmas is over. Clean up is beginning. I can't say that I am all that sad this year that is it over. Normally I have post Christmas blues, but this year with how I have been flaring and not being able to do all the things I like to do with my boys I am just glad it is over. <br />
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After a few days of Christmas get togethers I was pushed to my limits. Pain and fatigue took over. Monday was a day of pain medicine and resting especially since even with the meds I was unable to sleep Christmas night because of the pain. <br />
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We did bring home our 17 year old niece with us Christmas. Chloe is going to help the boys clean their rooms properly for me so we can put away their gifts and go through clothes and see what is up there that fits and what does not and can be donated. This is a big help for me. Chloe has stayed with us off and on her whole life so she fits in just like the boys except she will help me out. <br />
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I plan to at the least have the main area back in shape, tree down, and gifts put away by Friday. Not too big of a task as long as the upstairs gets done. Thursday will be a run to Detroit Metro Airport to pick up my friends 2 boys who are flying back from a visit to Florida with mom and her boyfriend. Nicholas is excited to see Ricky and Michael as they are best friends and they moved to Charlotte with their real dad so they don't spend as much time together.<br />
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Very few returns which is nice. I think we will do that on Thursday as well before the airport if possible. Three items is our fault. One I bought thinking of one Jacob and it was on Nicholas's list, then two "Cars 2" movies as I forgot we had bought one already and then Caleb got one from and Aunt and Uncle. Jacob needs to exchange a Nerf gun as he got the same one as he got last year. So thankfully we don't have many to do and many a line to stand in. Also why I am waiting a few days for the crowds to get smaller.<br />
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Now I am looking forward to New Year's Eve with some of my best friends ever. Hoping that next year I will be healthier and able to do more so I can make great memories for my boys and husband. Now is time to recover and move one.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-50469621178130583212011-12-20T17:24:00.003-05:002011-12-20T17:24:59.023-05:00Link Sharing - Counting Down the DaysWanted to share this article. It relates to the last post I did about managing your holidays so you can enjoy by keeping them simple. There are some great tips here. I hope it help.<br />
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<a class="contentpagetitle" href="http://www.fibroandfatigue.com/counting-down-the-days.html" style="visibility: visible;">Counting Down the Days</a> - Tuesday, December 21 2010<br /><a class="jwDisqusArticleCounterLink" href="http://www.fibroandfatigue.com/counting-down-the-days.html#disqus_thread">0 Comments</a>As the days wind down to Christmas, I can feel my anxiety growing by leaps and bounds. Even with my pared-down expectations and advance planning, there’s still so much to do. I know it’s time to scale back once more, and I’m coming to terms with the fact I probably won’t get it all done. So here are the makings of my last-minute Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Holiday Survival Guide.<br /><b>Gifts</b>. I still have names on my list, but I’m going to forget about what to get and how to organize my day so I don’t have to drive so much. I’m not going to wrap. I’m not going to ship. I’m turning to gift cards that can be purchased and delivered online. (I will choose online businesses from which I know the recipients would buy stuff.)<br /><b>Cards</b>. I’ve seriously cut back on my card list. I only send to people I don’t see. And I no longer do handwritten notes with each card. Yes, I’ve succumbed to the typed Christmas letter. For a while I felt guilty about that decision, but I’ve tried to make it sound fun rather than like a documentary. These will probably make it out the door by Christmas, but I doubt they’ll arrive by Christmas. And I’ve decided that’s okay. (You can take this one step simpler and send e-cards. <a href="http://www.jacquielawson.com/default.asp" mce_href="http://www.jacquielawson.com/default.asp">This online card shop</a> is a favorite of mine.)<br /><b>Food</b>. I’ve given up on the full-course turkey dinner idea this year. Instead, I’m getting trays of vegetables, fruits and deli meats, plus a few salads, from my grocery store. We’ll start a very simple slow-cooker meal in the morning, which will fill the house with good cooking smells all day, and if we’re still hungry after we’ve spent our day nibbling, we’ll dish up bowls of stew. And as my grandmother used to say with a wink, Sara Lee was very good at what she did. (Dishes are festively-decorated, sturdy paper, and utensils are color-coordinated and disposable--minimal clean-up.)<br /><b>Decorating</b>. If it’s not up now, it’s not going up unless someone else does the work. In my case, very little is up, which means there will be very little to take down (there’s a silver lining in every cloud!). My decorating this year will be aural: we plan to listen to lots of Christmas music.</blockquote>
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<b>Laying Low</b>. I’m going to introduce anyone spending time with me over the next few days to my refrigerator. I will extend full household privileges to root through my cupboards and help themselves to whatever they find. (I will not feel guilty that my cupboards aren’t spic and span.) And, because socializing this week would probably send me through the roof, I have declined invitations, with explanations and sincere apologies. For people I would love to see but can’t, I plan to call on or around Christmas day. I will make one exception: if someone invites me to a quiet meal for which I don’t need to get dressed up, I’ll go.<br /><b>Timing</b>. I’ve skirted around this one, but here it is point blank: if I can’t get something done for someone else by Christmas day, then I’ll get it done in the days after Christmas. It’s okay if Christmas extends beyond the actual day. Really!<br />As the days tick down, try to remember what’s important. Fill your head with positive, nurturing messages. The holidays are about giving … not things, but love. Having Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue may mean you have a harder time doing as much as you used to do; it doesn’t mean you love anyone any less.<br />Extend that love to yourself. Don’t stint on sleep. Make time to rest when you feel yourself approaching your limit. Remember to eat (remember to breathe deep relaxing breaths!). Laugh and smile and hug those you love as often as you can. Sidestep the guilt. Try not to accept the burden of other people’s expectations of who you should be, and be realistic about who you are and can be. Tell yourself it won’t always be this way, that as your treatment progresses, you will be able to do more.<br />Perhaps you and I will discover a valuable lesson from our efforts to trim the unnecessary from our holiday celebrations. I expect that if we look carefully and open ourselves to the possibilities, we may find less is more. This could be one of our most meaningful holidays ever.<br />Be on the lookout with me. </blockquote>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-77145362339653902942011-12-17T12:57:00.002-05:002011-12-17T12:57:51.099-05:00Holiday Shortcuts a Must This YearI am feeling like a failure this year to my boys for the holidays. As I am writing this I am in tears from pain and letting my boys and husband down, but I am doing this so you that suffer with Fibromyalgia know you are not alone. This is one of the hardest times of the year for us as we have more to do from decorating and get together. I have an added scare with my first mammogram which has just pushed me over the edge.<br />
<br />
I was in so much pain last night I took Vicoden. Which makes me have a "hangover" the next day so I was asleep on and off all morning and did not get Jacob and Caleb uptown to Santa, Nicholas is at a camp out for Boy Scouts and I really don't think he can still believe at 13 years old. So there is one guilty feeling. Then I wanted to bake some cookies today, even if they were the pre-cut ones. Again, I just can't do it. I could barely pick up my laptop.<br />
<br />
I know why I am flaring and it is expected, but it does not make the hurt and guilt go away. I had my 2nd mammogram and ultrasound on Thursday. Not only painful positions but the stress. Fortunately it is OK. Just some cysts to follow, but a few weeks of stress and worry. Then yesterday I threw Caleb's class holiday party, which was fun and great to do, but it took its toll on my body with everything combined. <br />
<br />
Tomorrow I am looking forward to going to a friend's for a little Christmas party with some of my best friends. That will be OK, but we all take a appetizer to pass and I love to make them and do something really good and different, but I am thinking it will be more of a antipasto platter with store bought stuff. I really don't think I can be out there cooking and stuff.<br />
<br />
I have a ton of wrapping to do this coming week, especially the stuff for the boys before they are out of school. Going to have friends from Florida spend one night when they come up to get their kids for Christmas break. Again a good thing, but a bit more to add to the list. We will sit back and have some fun catching up which is good for me and they understand all I go through so I don't have to panic about the house and stuff too much.<br />
<br />
Right now I am just laying here wondering if I should take some pain medicine and just give up. I want this time of year to be wonderful for my family and myself. I need to figure out what i can do to make it seem festive without killing myself. Maybe I do need today to be a down day, then I can go from here and get things done. Shortcuts will be needed. Maybe go to dollar store and all non Santa gifts are in bags this year or something. Maybe buy a platter of cookies somewhere so we can enjoy them and just not the baking part this year. I don't know right now, but I do know I have to do somethings to make it easier so I can be full force for the really important things. I hope you are figuring out ways to make the holidays enjoyable and pain free with shortcuts so you have the energy to do what you feel is important.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-69597420644752461142011-12-05T17:13:00.001-05:002011-12-05T17:17:41.565-05:00Managing Mornings<a href="http://www.fibroandfatigue.com/managing-mornings.html">Managing Mornings</a><br />
<br />
I found this about article linked above and wanted to share. I think these are great ideas for starting your day off to the right start. I know I cannot just jump out of bed and start my day. I need it to start slowly. <br />
<br />
I set my alarm for a few minutes before my boys get up and I have it snooze a few times just to give me time to sort of wake on my own when I have to get up. Fortunately my boys are great at getting ready for school most mornings so I can stay in bed and slowly get moving. I know what they are up to as our bedroom is on the main floor and with the door open I can see the kitchen and dining room. As long as they are doing as they are suppose to all goes well.<br />
<br />
Once they leave for school I usually will make coffee and enjoy or if I have to leave I will take a hot shower. All depends if I will be home for the whole day or not. I like being able to have some coffee and eat then take a shower. I will dress accordingly. At home I am comfortable with yoga or pajama pants and tops that won't be uncomfortable. No need to jeans or dress pants that may dig into me.<br />
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I do have a heated mattress pad and I will turn that on or jump up and turn up the electric heater. We keep our heat down because we use propane which is expensive. My husband can't have it too warm at night or it makes him cough and flares his allergies so a dual sided mattress pad and our own blankets solve that problem. It is hard to get up into a cold room and it can freeze up the muscle instantly. <br />
<br />
So try some of the ideas in the article or some of mine. See if they help you gain a little more control of your mornings and hopefully make your day just a bit better. Fibromyalgia affect so many things we don't think of so every little thing we find is worth a try as long as it is a safe thing to do.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHruYoWqgbr92Fhv10M-AUJsyW20zH_7QBc7XqB_IuMRcvO5ES1xoMpkWb8Ojme-KyNmX_dhsZ2s1xQ6JvkZE0n_6eqokiTVJjKpBiscqeK3FbUSX8MIabUMOl8lbkPde6EAwPvhWonk/s1600/good-morning019.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHruYoWqgbr92Fhv10M-AUJsyW20zH_7QBc7XqB_IuMRcvO5ES1xoMpkWb8Ojme-KyNmX_dhsZ2s1xQ6JvkZE0n_6eqokiTVJjKpBiscqeK3FbUSX8MIabUMOl8lbkPde6EAwPvhWonk/s1600/good-morning019.gif" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-2380866557672966362011-12-04T10:01:00.001-05:002011-12-04T10:12:02.148-05:00A Fibro Christmas Song!I stumbled on this in an email I receive from About.com on Fibromyalgia. I thought it was be nice to share and put some holiday humor to our condition. It is funny to me as it is so true. I know the pretense is not funny and very serious. I went shopping all day yesterday with some of my best girls and today is a day of recovery for me. I am not as bad as I have been in the past, but muscles ache and I want to sleep. <br />
<br />
First Caleb our yougest came in to snuggle, then Tucker the dog started barking to go out. So I go let him out, and he takes off so, for a bit we are trying to call him back in. Just enough to "wake" me up. So some coffee, TV, and computer time for a bit. I am sure a nap to come or at least a day of lounging around. Probably will work on updating Christmas shopping list and looking for ideas for a first grade holiday party since I took that on. <br />
<br />
So read the song. If you can sing, sing it and sing it loud. Just a little something to know you are not alone, with just a little humor so I think, though I do have a dark sense of humor. Hope you enjoy.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: red;">A Fibro</span> <span style="color: #339966;">Christmas <span style="color: red;">Song</span></span><span style="color: red;">! </span></strong></div>
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by Kim</div>
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<em>Sing to the tune of "Walking in a Winter Wonderland"</em></div>
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Muscle scream can you hear em,</div>
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No medication can cheer em,</div>
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I'm up all night,</div>
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I look a fright,</div>
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My Fibro's Flaring from these Holidays.</div>
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I decorated a little,</div>
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Had to stop in the middle,</div>
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My arms just don't work,</div>
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my legs started to jerk,</div>
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My Fibro's Flaring from these Holidays.</div>
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In the livingroom lays the Christmas tree,</div>
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It is drying up & it's turning brown,</div>
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By the time I start</div>
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to decorate it,</div>
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the lights will burn the darn thing to the ground.</div>
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Later on I'll try wrappin,</div>
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But I doubt It will happen,</div>
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No wonder why I'm a grouch,</div>
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suffering on the couch,</div>
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My Fibro's ruining my whole Holiday.</div>
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http://chronicfatigue.about.com/b/2011/11/27/a-fibromyalgia-christmas-song.htm?nl=1</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-58239801612602454042011-12-01T10:36:00.001-05:002011-12-01T10:59:04.529-05:00Help with Online Shopping to Help YouWith Fibromyalgia it can be hard at times to get out and fight the crowds at the stores for your holiday shopping. This year I am doing a lot more online shopping. This is helping me save my energy for the important things during the holiday season, like baking cookies with my boys and being able to enjoy the visits with relatives and friends since these to me is what what holidays are about.<br />
<br />
I have already ordered and received several gifts. Some are from the Etsy.com site that I have friends selling homemade items on, other are from other retailers. I am actually going to sit down with my husband and figure out the boys list and see if I can do one large Toys R Us order so I don't have to tromp through that store. Not fun on a good day.<br />
<br />
I thought as a way to help you with Fibromyalgia as well as every one with the busy schedules I would do some postings with special offers I receive. These offer will help you save money as you online shop. I know we need to save money and many of us with Fibromyalgia don't work because of the pain we suffer so saving money is important. <br />
<br />
Below are a few I have came across this morning either in my email inbox or other places online.<br />
<br />
<strong>vocalp</strong><strong>oint.com/eStoreHoliday</strong><br />
<strong>About eStore:</strong><br /> The eStore is an independent online retailer,<br /> owned and operated by eStore Retail Services,<br /> featuring P&G brands. Now for the holidays you<br /> can get FREE Shipping with a $25 purchase, as<br /> well as 15% OFF and FREE gift wrap for<br /> Vocalpoint members.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">We
have 12 days of exclusive offers to inspire the holiday spirit and make your
shopping easier. Enjoy sweet prices on holiday treats and <a href="http://e.starbucks.com/a/hBO1uMlAJvkyvB8eu5oAMmPLAWC/xmasblend#/christmas-blend"><b><span style="color: #20850d; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Starbucks</span></b><b><sup><span style="color: #20850d; font-size: 7.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">®</span></sup></b><b><span style="color: #20850d; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"> Christmas Blend
coffee</span></b></a>, specially-priced iconic holiday mugs - and even an easy
way to get daily brewed coffee for a month with just one purchase. Find out
more at <a href="http://e.starbucks.com/a/hBO1uMlAJvkyvB8eu5oAMmPLAWC/merry"><b><span style="color: #20850d; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Starbucks.com/merry</span></b></a>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">December 1-5</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Free Shipping with $50 order, but coupons and Kohl's Cash is deducted then you get free shipping if you spend $50 beyond the discounts. (Found that out yesterday when trying to place an order and use my Kohl's Cash from Black Friday.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Promo Code for 20% off: Holly20</span><br />
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Remember to also use any rewards programs you belong to like Mypoints. They can save you money or give you points or money towards other items. Also opting into emails for the companies you shop will keep you updated with the latest sales and when they cut of shipping for Christmas delivery.<br />
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Good luck on saving money, saving energy, and enjoying the holidays with your loved ones.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-24108553105652538482011-11-30T18:54:00.001-05:002011-11-30T19:05:17.030-05:00Mammogram Part 2Even though I did not think it would happen, it did. I was told to possibly expect it, but I way trying that positive thinking thing. Needless to say I have a call back for more images and a possible ultrasound. It seems relatively normal with your first one as they have nothing to compare to.<br />
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I am a worrier so having to go back in for another mammogram has me stressing out just a bit. I was told by the technician, friends, family, nurse, etc., that this happens and not to worry. So now I freaked out, cried, and got my body even more knotted up, I think I am now looking at it a bit better. I know me, I will worry, but will try to keep it under control.<br />
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If for any reason they have found something it is best to know and get treatment. If you catch things early they you have a good chance of a successful recovery. I know people who have put off getting things checked and did not make it, and those that got in early and were cured. <br />
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I got back December 15th for the follow up so I would assume if they were too worried I'd be in sooner so I am taking that as a good sign. I have to do this, because I have three boys who need their mom and a husband who needs his wife. So by taking care of myself I am taking care of my family.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-85209393030788356932011-11-30T11:07:00.001-05:002011-11-30T11:08:03.102-05:00My First MammogramYesterday I had my very first mammogram. I was concerned it would hurt as many had told me they would. I was fortunate as I did not feel it really hurt, just a bit of pressure. Or I should say the mammogram part did not hurt. The positioning especially on the second view did.<br />
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The part that hurt was due to my Fibromyalgia. I am really spasmed in a few spots and one is my shoulders especially my left one. To get into the position they needed me in to get the image it pulled on that area. By time I got home it was time to pull out the Vicoden and take it.<br />
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Even though I took Vicoden again before bed I was still awake a lot from the pain in my shoulder. It is really hurting today. I would like to take pain medicine, but I am avoiding it if at all possible. I just hate being a Zombie, plus Jacob, our middle guy, came home sick from school so I want to be alert to take care of him. My boys comfort comes before mine whenever possible and necessary. Part of being a mom and especially a mom with Fibromyalgia.<br />
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I am a firm believer in doing health screenings and I am not trying to discourage it. What I want is for you to plan for any possible flares. If possible don't go for your mammograms when you are flaring like I did. Also plan to rest afterwards as it may stretch your muscles and make them ache. Do what your body needs to prevent and/or recover from a hard task.<br />
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Mammograms are extremely important to have done whether or not there is a family history. Most breast cancers and other conditions have no family history. Just try and make the experience the best you can for yourself and others. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjf2gx5VAaEWyLfDFz1c3Wthi_ATKLWuGfz667kEcPAGMoBwbVcRl-tQJIAfCxiKQmK8uYEwr1S3PB6aBeYcuo0Q2QRrYBvUwo9wr8TbLgb0HVXVivlz7atm34HKlCuFMbjh-hJCnGEEU/s1600/mammogram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjf2gx5VAaEWyLfDFz1c3Wthi_ATKLWuGfz667kEcPAGMoBwbVcRl-tQJIAfCxiKQmK8uYEwr1S3PB6aBeYcuo0Q2QRrYBvUwo9wr8TbLgb0HVXVivlz7atm34HKlCuFMbjh-hJCnGEEU/s1600/mammogram.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-71387174613824579682011-11-22T10:59:00.001-05:002011-11-22T11:22:01.563-05:00Thanksgiving Week 2011Most people a very busy week prepping for Thanksgiving. I am pretty lucky as I don't have to cook dinner. We are going to Ed's sisters and she has asked me to bring a sweet potato dish. I have a very easy recipe that even my father in law likes and he doesn't like much so I am making that. I am sure one or more of my boys will help me too. I will also probably grab a bottle or 2 of wine to take, though if you have Fibromyalgia you should go easy or avoid.<br />
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I came off a very stressful weekend with my 2 youngest boys. Jacob and Caleb were handfuls on Saturday. We were suppose to go out for a very dear friend's birthday and we were going to allow Nicholas to babysit. He has been showing a bit more responsibility and we want to show him we noticed. Well we had to cancel as Jacob and Caleb would not listen to me at all and were out of control, so of course I could not leave them with Nicholas and it was too late to find another babysitter. This stressed me out and made me feel so guilty and depressed to the point I could barely move.<br />
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Sunday was pretty much spent in bed in pain. Waking up Monday was even worse. To help me I treated myself to a massage. It was a Therapeutic Massage so it did the Myofacial Release and Trigger Points. The therapists was great. Thank you Meagan at Sacred Touch Massage Therapy in Brooklyn, MI. I could barely drive there and turn for the curves, but on the way home I notices a huge difference. I did the ice, drank the water and such they told me to do to promote healing. Yes I was and am sore, but it is a different pain and I can move.<br />
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Today is still a day of mostly relaxing for me as I am still healing from the massage. I am still sore in the areas that were really worked hard. Though I am trying to do laundry as that is a good job on a down day as I can do it in spurts.<br />
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I am a Black Friday shopper and I yet know what time I will be out. This is why I am taking care of myself so much this week as I go with friends every year and have gone every year since I have know my friend Tonya, so something like 17-18 years. I don't want to let them down and miss out. I also know I will need a few days of recovery after words. It will throw off my sleep and the trudging around stores and carrying packages will take a toll, but this is one of those things I do for emotional well being even though I will probably pay physically for it. Mental is as important as physical well being and many articles I read state that We need time with friends and family.<br />
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So over the next few days I am just doing a few things I must, taking care of my body, and preparing for spending time with my husband's family for Thanksgiving and my Black Friday shopping trip. I have some gifts bought, ordered, or know what I am getting. Will be setting down with boys and making a Santa list and a list I can tell family and friends they want. <br />
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So remember whether you are hosting Thanksgiving or going to visit family of friends don't push your body too hard, get good rest, and enjoy. Happy Thanksgiving and even though we have Fibromyalgia look for the important blessings in your life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2w9NsDblwJ0tFFWUjyHeO10XCm3HGMVUmb0qN_ecb18DS6ACRxv6x-7EqXlSWmX1PG2Ee4GNd-wzlrBhTfp62qy2FoH2DMbdryPczYvpGIPXsHOTJJqXtVeL37BsiGKMzyj_XRMwHg-o/s1600/8happy-thanksgiving-day.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2w9NsDblwJ0tFFWUjyHeO10XCm3HGMVUmb0qN_ecb18DS6ACRxv6x-7EqXlSWmX1PG2Ee4GNd-wzlrBhTfp62qy2FoH2DMbdryPczYvpGIPXsHOTJJqXtVeL37BsiGKMzyj_XRMwHg-o/s320/8happy-thanksgiving-day.gif" width="320" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-9074714593949430832011-11-16T14:36:00.001-05:002011-11-16T14:54:23.861-05:00Letting Down NicholasYesterday was one of those hard day with Fibromyalgia and surgery recovery. <em> </em>I have to let down Nicholas our 13 year old son. Out of the blue I got a severe headache. The type pain medicine does not do much for.<br />
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Nicholas had a Boy Scout Troop Meeting last night, and there was no way I could drive with the headache I had, plus I did end up taking pain medicine to bring it into a bit of control. We attempted to find a ride for him, but since it was opening day of Deer Hunting Season here in Michigan many of the boys were out in the woods hunting with there dads. So I hope he did not miss too much.<br />
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Nicholas was great. He really sounded sincere when he said it was OK and that he understood, but as his mom I did not think it was OK. I felt terrible as he has really been trying to be good and do as we ask of him. Plus Ed, dad and hubby, is working extra crazy hours this week so he couldn't help and take Nicholas either. <br />
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I have also been having a lot of overall pain the last fee days so Nicholas is helping with his brothers some. It is so hard to have to have him do this. I mean once in a while is fine and expected, but lately<em> </em>I have had a hard time. I am flaring a lot easier and I know a lot is because I have not been as active and now we are getting into colder weather and in Michigan it can be warm one day and really cold the next this time of year. That is no fun with Fibromyalgia. It is also affecting my sinus comfort as I am still healing.<br />
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Now I just got home from my ENT doctor and he did a Nasal Vacuum on my sinuses. The numbing medicine is wearing off and I am beginning to have that wonderful headache again. I have prepared by stopping at the store and buying Pasties (Jacob has been asking for them) so they can just be popped in over. As much as I don't want to be a Zombie I am thinking I may need to, hence again Nicholas will need to help a bit with things. <br />
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It is so hard to live with this and have to lean on my family, especially my boys. I am so far behind on everything. I am tired of the pain, and I am sure they are tired of taking care of me. I know it affects my guys. I know my husband Ed understands, and possibly Nicholas. I am not so sure about the other two. I try not to feel guilty as it feeds the pain and depression and then a vicious cycle starts, but it is hard not to. I just try to tell myself there are others a lot worse off and we all have our challenges. For me this is mine. Balancing a painful, energy zapping condition with everything else in life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVi2jF6qPFIORCwWwdBLchBbKGTKCQL8XyX5OO7COARbMlND3ZlSBREx6Lo43MVS1H6Uyv3GoQMutwbvhIe4KMsRGE2t2lfZpNbj-R0MJEY_0xqU-kMGhoJIp_JUJf2SWn0yfyHKUgeM/s1600/guilty_mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVi2jF6qPFIORCwWwdBLchBbKGTKCQL8XyX5OO7COARbMlND3ZlSBREx6Lo43MVS1H6Uyv3GoQMutwbvhIe4KMsRGE2t2lfZpNbj-R0MJEY_0xqU-kMGhoJIp_JUJf2SWn0yfyHKUgeM/s1600/guilty_mom.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-70926559812086665572011-11-14T10:21:00.001-05:002011-11-14T10:41:32.341-05:00Holiday Shopping TipsHoliday shopping is on us. Some are done, some are just starting, and some have done nothing as of yet. I am trying to get organized and make a shopping list to make life easier. When you have Fibromyalgia it is important to try and make life at the Holidays as easy as possible. I am looking at ways to do that.<br />
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First thing that I think is important is to make a list of who you must buy for. Next is great to surf the Internet for ideas. I also try to keep a list going all year not only for holidays but for birthdays and such. When possible I try to buy if I see something during the year, but if not possible I add to list. Right now that is what I am doing, seeing what is bought, who I have to buy for, and looking for ideas, which includes sitting down with my 3 boys and making lists.<br />
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For my boys we make 2 lists. One for Santa and one other I can give ideas to other or use myself. I like being able to just go in and grab. I also limit the boys to no more then 3 items to ask Santa for, though unfortunately I think I have 2 boys that no longer believe. This way I don't have to beat the payment looking for too much. I also hope it is teaching them not to be too greedy.<br />
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Over the years for financial reasons and the lack of ideas we have cut from our gift buying. I think it would be great for everyone to look over there lists and see where you can cut. You need to make life easier. I would much rather focus on family and friends then stressing on gifts. That is really how we all should be looking at the holidays. I know a day of shopping will put me in bed for days, so if I really don't need to get a gift I talk to those people and explain why not to buy for one another. I try to maybe make plans for a lunch or something. Spending time together is much more important then gifts.<br />
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I am also this year trying to shop locally some. Using the small unique shops close by that I can stop in real quick and not a huge shopping trip. There is a large push to help the economy buy using these places and since they are small and in the area where you already are it is not a huge drawn out process to pop in and look for gifts, and you are supporting your community and friends.<br />
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Another thing I am doing is checking with my friend that do crafts. I am looking at purchasing homemade items and such. A lot of this is either locally or online. Again an easy way to shop and usually the gifts are much nice then some mass produced items. Most of the time it can be custom made to exactly what you want. So think of buying from your friends that are crafty. I know I already have a few items to purchase that are homemade and all I need to do is order and it will be delivered to my door.</div>
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I hope some of the tips and ideas I have came across and have thought of to try and make Holiday shopping easier helps. Please share any and all tips you have learn to do while trying to take the pain and stress out of your Holiday shopping. It is great to help one another.</div>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6196541952732709912.post-43365382415430649822011-11-11T11:16:00.001-05:002011-11-11T11:27:08.594-05:00Friend, That's What MattersI am very happy that my dear friend, Kathy has come to visit. She is only up from Florida for one day, but I get to spend the day with her and her kids. I miss her terribly since we were basically living across the field from one another till this past summer. She will also be back for Thanksgiving so I should be able to see her then too.<br />
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I love all my friends dearly. I am very blessed to have them in my life whether they are friends from when I was a little child or friends I have recently met. Some are only online so far, but they support me as much as the ones that are local. <br />
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I find you need at least a few good friends you can rely on in life no matter what. That don't judge you and accept you for who you are. They pick you up if you make a mistake and help you fix it, not get mad and storm off and disown you. Those friends are what help make a person happy in life. I am blessed to have so many that are like this.<br />
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My friends understand my struggles with Fibromyalgia, raising my boys, making a home with my wonderful husband. They help when needed even if not wanted. They know I need it, and make me accept it. They accept me entirely for who I am, not what I do or do not have.<br />
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So make sure you find yourself a few good friends, at least one, that you can rely on and lean on when you needed. Then return the favor when they are in need. This is what life is all about. Family and friends. Nothing else really matters. With this you can get through your struggles with Fibromyalgia or any other struggles you face day to day. I know it helps me. Thank you to all my wonderful friends. I love each and every one of you.<br />
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Everything is finally looking good. Still a bit of healing and I need to lose weight as I gained back everything I lost a couple of years ago, but that is what happens when you are down for so long and M&M's keep ending up the house. LOL! My weight loss and exercise goal is to start after the first of the year. I need to finish healing and I know myself well enough to know that the holiday season is not a good time to start a weight loss program.<br />
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The flu shot was rough. It was only a little prick, but it sent pain up to my neck. With that and the things I did yesterday I am flaring today. A flare from the shot is much better then a flare from the flu and the flu so get you shot or mist. I had to get the shot because of my sinus recovery. Everything is starting to really hurt so I will be taking Vicoden and resting. I did take care of errands and got dinner into crock pot so my family can eat and not have to fend for themselves too much. <br />
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I hope through the Vicoden fog and flaring I can get some more done this evening as I have a friend flying in for 2 days. If not I pray my boys will help, but they haven't been cooperative at all lately. Fortunately my friend knows how our house has been and loves us for us and will help if she can. Just more important to take care of me so I can enjoy our time together.<br />
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So finally after a year of one ailment or another I finally feel things looking up. At least in the health area. We raised my Cymbalta back up to the level I was on before all the Serotonin stuff so I hope some of the aches and pains will be better and also as I get more active again will help as long as I remember step by step and not to push too much. I am very happy with today's results.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02324667487173428509noreply@blogger.com0