Walmart.....

I'm convinced the people that work at Walmart are ignorant. They must be on work release. Especially the one on Wards Rd.

I stop by there at 5:30am on my way home from work today.....had a few items to grab. Wanted to get some "Fuze" drinks. I go to the back of the store where the drink isle is....and....low and behold...they have that isle roped off. I looked and the other end of the isle didn't have a rope up.....so....I slid under the rope to go get my drinks. 2 employees yell at me like I'm stealing the damned drinks. This did NOT set well with me. So, I let em have it. When I was done with them, I was so mad, I proceeded to go check out......forgetting the rest of the stuff I went for.

The lady at the cash register asked me how I was and I let her have it! I told her I needed to see a manager because I didn't appreciate being yelled at by their employees.

The manager comes over and I let her have it. I asked her...."Is this a 24 hr Walmart?" She said "Yes maam." I said "Then why the HELL do you have isles roped off when you know people come from all over to shop? If you're gonna close down isles, you need to close the whole store!" I proceeded to yell a few other choice items and took my 5 items and spun outta there like a bat outta hell.

Now I remember why I HATE the Lynchburg Walmart. I mean....really...what was I supposed to do? SIT and wait for them to take the rope down? I could have been there for hours. The floor wasn't wet.

I can feel my blood pressure going up.

Another one bites the dust......

Well, this year is almost over. Thanksgiving came and went. Christmas came and went. New Years is 2 days away. As I look back over this year, I cant seem to find where the time went.

A few biggies:
I started online classes to get my BSN.
I went back to the ER to work.
I bought a new mustang.

Some weight loss accomplishments:
I fit into a size 16 jeans while shopping at the beach.
I fit into roller coaster rides at Kings Dominion.
I bought a little black dress and high heel shoes!

Some things I'm looking forward to in 2009:
Losing those last 50lbs.
Our "girl" Vegas trip in October.
Continuing my photography persuits.

So, so long 2008. Looking foward to new adventures in 2009.

Noodleless Crockpot Lasagna

Here's a recipe I obtained from OH.com. I made it a few days ago and it was quite yummy!
The next time I make it, I'm going to add ground beef to each layer.

Crock Pot Lasagna

--1 - 26 oz jar of your favorite pasta sauce
--1 small container of ricotta cheese
--8 slices of mozzarella cheese
--2 cups shredded Italian cheese mix
--1 large eggplant
--3 summer squash
--1 pound of sliced mushrooms
--1 bag of baby spinach
--2 T warm water

The Directions

I used a 6 quart Smart Pot for this dish, it was the correct size pot to use. If you have a smaller crock-pot, you will need to scale back a bit.Wash all of the vegetables. Slice the squash and the eggplant in long, slices, about 1/4 inch thick. These are going to be your noodles! I did not peel the squash or the eggplant. In the bottom of your crockpot, pour about 1/4 cup of pasta sauce. Layer in a few pieces of squash and eggplant. Smear some ricotta cheese on top. Add a handful of baby spinach and mushrooms, and a few slices of mozzarella cheese. Pour in some more pasta sauce. Continue layering the ingredients until your crockpot is full, and you have run out of ingredients. Top with the end of the pasta sauce and the shredded cheese. Put 2 tablespoons of warm water into the empty pasta sauce jar, cover, and shake. Pour the remaining sauce on top of everything.

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 5-8 hours. This is done when the vegetables have reached their desired tenderness and the cheese is melty.

What it's all about......

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2008/11/28/2008-11-28_worker_dies_at_long_island_walmart_after.html

We as a society have lost our minds. A walmart employee was trampled to death while shoppers looked on and continued to shop. What in the world? I fully believe that the world is coming to an end.
We have forgotten what Christmas is all about people. Forget the presents and forget the food. Christmas is about Jesus. First and foremost.....nothing else. The day we can trample a man to death for a few "bargains" is a sad, sad day. I realize that accidents happen but to continue to shop as this man lay dying......well, that's just despicable. Makes me ashamed to be a member of society.

Thanksgiving......

As the time nears for my family to arrive for dinner, I cannot help but think of what I am thankful for this year.

1. My family
2. My health
3. My dogs
4. My job
5. My home
6. My friends

We must remember no matter how bad things are in our life, someone....somewhere...has it worse than we do. Pray for those less fortunate than you are. Be grateful for what you have.

Tanya

Apple Cinnamon Protein Cake

Made this recipe I obtained from Eggface's blog tonight. Another yummy find!

This time, I put it in a 3 cup glass baking dish before I microwaved it. I had to microwave it for 4 mins to get the center done.

Here's the recipe:

Shelly's 5 Minute Sugar Free Apple Cinnamon Cake

1 Egg, beaten

3 Tablespoons Milk

2 Tablespoons Sugar Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Caramel)

2 Tablespoons No Sugar Added Applesauce

2 Tablespoons Canola Oil

3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix

1 teaspoon Cinnamon

1 Tablespoon Pecans, chopped

1 Tablespoon Raisins

1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder

Pinch salt

1 Measuring Cup or Microwave Safe Mug

In a measuring cup or microwave safe mug, Mix egg, milk, syrup, applesauce and oil and combine thoroughly. In a separate bowl, mix pancake mix, cinnamon, nuts, raisins, protein powder and salt. Tip dry into wet and stir till combined. Nuke in microwave for 2 minutes. Let it sit for three or so minutes (it pulls away from the sides) before tipping the cake onto a plate. Yields 4-5 slices.

I topped it with Land O Lakes Sugar Free Whipped Cream, a drizzle of Smuckers Sugar Free Caramel Sauce and some chopped nuts.

You can catch this and other recipes on Eggface's blog at:

http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/

Banana Caramel Nut Protein Cake

Okay, hats off to eggface again! I made this recipe I obtained from her blog today and it is YUMMY! You really MUST try it!

Shelly's 5 Minute Sugar Free Banana Caramel Nut Cake

1 Egg, beaten

3 Tablespoons Milk
2 Tablespoons Sugar Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Caramel)

2 Tablespoons Banana, mashed

2 Tablespoons Canola Oil

3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix (I used whole wheat)

1 teaspoon Cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg

1 Tablespoon Pecans, chopped

1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder

Pinch salt

1 Measuring Cup or Microwave Safe Mug

In a measuring cup or microwave safe mug, Mix egg, milk, syrup, banana and oil and combine thoroughly. In a separate bowl, mix pancake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, nuts, protein powder and salt. Tip dry into wet and stir till combined.

Nuke in microwave for 2 minutes*. Let it sit for three or so minutes (it pulls away from the sides) before tipping the cake onto a plate. Yields 4-5 slices.*Microwave wattage varies. Mine takes 2 minutes but start with 2 minutes and add 20 second increments if needed till no liquid is seen.

For a dessert I topped the cake with Land o Lakes Sugar Free Whipped Cream, Smucker's Sugar Free Caramel Sauce, sliced Banana and a sprinkle of chopped Pecans. Slices of this are great toasted for breakfast too. It's a total banana nut muffin fix.

OMG....This is soooo good! Thanks eggface!

You can catch her blog recipes at:
http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/

Myrtle Beach.....Day 5

Well, today was a relaxin' day. My 2 friends went for some shopping at the outlets on 501 and I hung around the hotel. I did go out for some dunkin donuts coffee and to get Kali a souvenir. Then I came back, took myself out to the beach and lounged in the sun. I painted my toenails, listened to my MP3 player.....and chilled! It was soooo nice. Lookin' at the waves makes me wish I could do this 365 days a year. I took a small walk and took some random pics. There was a seagull family nearby with 3 baby seagulls. They were soooo cute!


We ended the night at the "Sea Captain" restaurant down on 30th avenue. I had a bowl of she-crab soup....which was AWESOME! I had 2 bites of scallops and oysters and I was full. It was all good. I loved the soup so much I ordered a bowl to go. If you ever want a good seafood restaurant to eat at in MB, eat here! It's right on the water.

After dinner, we decided to head back over to broadway at the beach so my friends could go back in shops they wanted to pick up a few things at. Kathy spent forever in the Cat shop and still didn't get what she really wanted. I managed to find a starbucks...YUM and get some pics of the lit up Christmas tree. Very pretty I might ad! I sure will miss MB when I leave tomorrow....to go back to the read world.

Myrtle Beach....Day 4

Us girls had a discussion today as to why it is we always have problems when we go out together. We have come to the conclusion it is because our expectations are too high. We are professionals and we expect everyone else to act as professionals and when they don't, it ticks us off. Then we have to show ourselves. We are going to get shirts that say "High Expectations" on it to wear when we're together.

With that said, we spent the day shopping at the outlets in North Myrtle Beach and Barefoot Landing. We stopped by McDonalds across from Barefoot Landing to get some sweet tea and went thru the drive thru. When I placed my order, the girl said "pull around to the next window." Well, at the next window, there was no one there. I sat there a few mins and pulled up to the next window. A few mins later, she comes over. I gave her my money and asked her "Did you tell me to pull to the next window?" She just looks at me. I said "Oh, excuse me...did you hear me?" She said "Yes I heard you. I told you to pull around to this window." I just looked at her. All I can say is.....HIGH EXPECTATIONS.

Here's a pic I took today when the sun was going down....

Now this is Pecan PIE!

We spent the day in Charleston, SC. It was a beautiful old historic town! We did a tour of Boone Hall Plantation. It was absolutely gorgeous. It has been in several movies.....latest one was "The Notebook." I can't wait to get home and watch it.

We then went into Charleston and of course we had to visit Margaritaville. While we are in there, we overhear the staff talking about Jimmy Buffet being there yesterday. Said he rode his bicycle up, came in and signed some autographs. I'm always a day late and a dollar short. We ate lunch at Bubba Gumps and it was AWESOME! I had the stuffed shrimp.....YUM! The service was also excellent!
The rain ran us off about 4pm and we headed back to our hotel. We stopped on the way back at the Boone Hall Store on Rte 17N and did a little shoppig. I spotted the cake/pie counter. OH MY GOD. Those cakes and pies looked delicious! I had to have a piece of the pecan pie. The pecans are grown right here in S.C. at the Boone Plantation. Have you ever seen a piece of pecan pie that was this thick? I had a few bites and shared with my friends and it was to DIE FOR!

No problems having to lay anyone out today.....thank GOD!

Tanya

Myrtle Beach.....Day 2

Well, I warned ya. Something always happens to us girls. I ended up with a 24 hr GI bug and was up in the bathroom all night. (It has worked its way thru my entire family now....hubby called tonight and he has it.) When I finally got up at noon today, we headed out for some lunch at Margaritaville....at Broadway at the Beach....and a little shopping.

Our waiter came over to take our order and my friend Andrea ordered first. Right after she said her order, he turns around and starts talking to the girl who brought out the food to the table behind us. I just looked at my friend like "WTF???" I thought that was very rude. Then I gave my order and my other friend gave hers. Well, 2 of our dishes come out and my friend who ordered first looks at us and goes "I wonder where my food is?" The waiter comes back by and we ask where her food is and he goes "Oh I'm sorry....did you order something?" We just looked at each other. He goes to get her order and we are very irritated. Then my other friend asks him for some ranch dressing and he just looks at her. He doesn't acknowledge that he heard her or anything. A few mins later, he brings the ranch dressing. I then ask for some and he does me the same way.....

So, I'm very agitated now and I ask for the manager. I let her have an ear full and she gives my friend her shrimp for free and gives me and my other friend a discount on our meal. Needless to say, he did NOT get a tip!

Every year when we go somewhere, we have restaurant issues! I don't get it.

Tanya

Myrtle Beach.....Day 1

My 2 friends and I are at Myrtle Beach for a week....it's our yearly "girl" trip. We went to Liberty Steakhouse for our first night's dinner. It's at broadway at the beach. At the table across from us, a guy passes out. His 2 friends jump up and check him out. Come to find out, one of the guys with him is a neuro surgeon. The other one is a nurse. While he is lying on the floor, I look at my friend (who's also an ER nurse) and say "you gonna go over?" She's eating her seafood pasta and looks at me and says "I'm on vacation." She then looks at the men with him and asks "does he have a pulse?" They say "Yes".....and she continues to eat.

Now, you have to know my friend to understand she's a trip. She would have gotten up had she needed to. I, on the other hand, was deeply disturbed that this man was lying out on the floor. Luckily, his friends stated that he had a pulse.....so we continued to watch and see what was going on. 911 was called and the guy passed out again while he was waiting on them. Turns out, he was diabetic. I lost my appetite and continued to watch this pitiful, pale man. You could look at them and tell they had been out golfing all day.

The point to my story is.....every year us girls go somewhere, something happens. We either end up in fights with waiters/waitresses at restaurants....or people fall out.

The story continues.....tomorrow.

Tanya

Field of.....CORN!

I went with my daughter Kali on her girlscout's field trip yesterday to a corn maize. How interesting.....I had never been to one. It was actually fun. We were given 10 questions to answer and depending on our answer, we either went left or right. Needless to say, we ran in circles a few times....but we eventually answered all 10 and found our way out. If you ever get the chance to go to a corn maize, you should try it!

This is a pic of the maze from the air.

Turkey Day....AT MY HOUSE!

Okay, have I bumped my head? I just announced I will be cooking at my house on Turkey Day. I must be crazy.
I called my dad to tell him the news......he goes "Who's gonna be cooking?" Ha! Very funny dad! "I'll be cooking!" Heck, he might not come now. I mean, I can cook.....if I have to. I plan on getting a sliced ham from "Heavenly ham" and have everyone bring a side dish. Should be a nice day....with the family. Gotta get polished up on some good recipes.....better start searching the net now....any suggestions? I need healthy recipes guys!

Tanya

Butt therapy....and BIOFREEZE!

A few weeks ago I had a workers comp injury. It involved a drunk 18yr old college student and me jerking the sheet that was under him to prevent him from aspirating on his vomit. Anywho.....I reported it to employee health like a good little nurse......and played it off thinking the back pain would go away.....it was probably a pulled muscle....etc, etc. Well, the pain STILL hasn't gone away.....thanks drunk college student!

I went to have it checked out last week and I was set up for a PT eval. I had that eval today. The therapist used some kind of warmed ultrasound machine on my back....which was heaven.....and then she put some Biofreeze on it. THAT STUFF IS THE BOMB! It has a numbing/tingling effect. I didn't even know I had a back until it wore off! It worked so well, I drove to Wyndhurst (10 miles away) to purchase a 4oz tube of it for $10. (The PT office did not sell it.) I had my husband rub some on my back a few mins ago before he went to bed and I'm in heaven again. I have found some on ebay.....a 32oz pump bottle for $40 (includes S&H). I don't know who invented this stuff but it really works.

As for the butt therapy.....well, the pain is going into my right butt cheek. So, the therapist pounded away on my lower back and my butt. Let's just say, it was VERY uncomfortable.....until she did the heat and biofreeze.

Let's just hope this pulled muscle/ligament heals soon!

As for the 18yr old drunk college student.....he has NO idea what I'm going through because I was trying to protect his airway and keep him from possibly becoming brain dead. And we are hardly EVER thanked for what we do..... The ER, gotta love it.

Tanya

Starbucks for RNY'ers

Okay, this post was copied from Obesityhelp.com a few months ago. For those of you who love Starbucks like I do, here's a list of RNY "friendlier" drinks.

Sugarfree Caramel/Hazelnut/Vanilla Frappucino Creme light
Sugarfree Hazelnut Frappucino light
Sugarfree Vanilla Frapucino light
Sugarfree Caramel Frappucino light
Espresso Frappucino light
Coffee Frappucino Light
Black Coffee (who wants this stuff when the others are available????)
Iced Coffee unsweetened
Iced Nonfat Coffee Con Leche unsweetened
Iced Soy Coffee Con Leche uwsweetened
Iced Green Tea unsweetened
Iced Black Tea unsweetened
Iced Passion Tea unsweetened
Iced/Hot Americano
Iced/Hot sugarfree caramel soy latte
Iced/Hot sugarfree caramel nonfat latte
Iced/Hot sugarfree vanilla soy latte
Iced/Hot sugarfree vanilla nonfat latte
Iced/Hot sugarfree hazelnut nonfat latte
Iced/Hot sugarfree hazelnut soy latte
Iced/Hot nonfat latte
Iced/Hot soy latte

Enjoy folks!

History.....is made!

It's 11:08pm here in Virginia and I just turned the news on. It seems that Obama is the new President of the United States. History.....was just made folks. The first black president. I'm not saying who I voted for. Let's just say.....I hope Obama can turn things around for this economy. I hope he can be the one who stands up and does what he said he would do. What a wonderful country we live in that we can choose who we want to lead us. We have been given a wonderful ability.....I hope everyone took advantage of that right today....If not, you have no one to blame but yourself!

Tanya

Egg Nog Protein Drink

Here's a protein drink for the upcoming holidays.....

Egg Nog Protein Drink

2 oz Egg Nog SF DaVinci syrup
1 oz (2Tbsp) FF Half & Half
1/2 cup Ice Cubes - 3 or 4 "ice maker" cubes
1 oz water
1 scoop vanilla protein powder. I use Whey gourmet Vanilla purchased at walmart.

I mix this in the magic bullet. If you prefer a less thick version, exchange the ice for an additional 1/4 cup water and let stand after mixing to let the foam settle.

Enjoy!

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Here's one of the first recipes I wore out after my RNY. It's high in protein and tastes great!

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

1/2 cup cottage cheese
1 egg
2 tbsp flour

Mix all in blender or magic bullet. (I purchased a magic bullet. It's WELL worth the money!) Cook in frying pan using non stick spray. Cover with sugar free syrup. I add cinnamon as well.

Makes about 4 small pancakes. (I can only eat 2.) 21g protein total.

I voted!

They say this year is gonna be a record voter turnout. Okay.....tell us what you want America. Who do you think will change the way things are going and help us get back on track?

Me.....I voted for Jimmy Buffett. Hey, it's 5 o'clock somewhere!!!!!!! :)

If you like Starbucks, head on over there and tell them you voted....they'll give you a free cup of coffee! Check out the video on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2J8KJDsqqY

Peanut Butter Cup Protein Ice Cream......

Okay. I'm officially in love with my ice cream maker. Oh, and eggface! I wonder if she'll come cook for me the rest of my/her life???? :)
I made the peanut butter cup protein ice cream tonight and I love this even more than the pistachio!!!!! It's WONDERFUL! My most 2 favorite things in the world....chocolate and peanut butter. I see a long and prosperous relationship between me and my ice cream maker.
For the recipe, I must give ALL props to eggface. Here's a link to her blog with the recipe.
http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/2008/07/it-should-be-illegal.html

Thanks eggface, you're awesome!

Tanya

Pistachio Protein Ice Cream

Okay....I must rave about my new toy. I purchased a 1 1/2 qt ice cream maker on amazon.com and it arrived on halloween! I did this to make protein ice cream.....protein ice cream that I have been drooling over on eggface's page. For those of you who are wondering who "eggface" is, check out her blog....you WONT be sorry! She is awesome! http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/2008/10/on-my-way-to-la.html

I tried the pistachio ice cream first since that was simple to make.....OH MY GOD! It's awesome! And full of protein! My hubby even likes it! Here's the link to all of the protein ice cream recipes that is posted by eggface. http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/2008/08/protein-ice-cream.html


So if you're RNY post op, and like ice cream.....all is not lost for you. You can enjoy ice cream again....and the healthy kind!

Tanya

Unruly kids.....

This is why I have no tolerance for kids.....

I was in Wally World earlier and it was WILD! Then I realized it was the first of the month and checks came out! But this is the killer.....Wild Kids were running around everywhere! GET YOUR KIDS UNDER CONTROL PEOPLE! Don't let them run around like idiots. Those of us who have NO tolerance for kids can't stand it! I had a kid lean over and smack me with a piece of paper.....from his cart! I just looked at the dad.....WTH? Then a kid across the way ran into the back of this guy's foot. Why are you letting your kids push a cart? The look on the man's face was priceless. I thought he was going to choke the crap outta the kid.

I probably would have helped him......

Knock Knock......Who's there?

More toilet trilogies.....

One of my biggest pet peeves is when I'm in the toilet and someone knocks on the door. I mean, WTH? Why do people knock on the toilet door? I wasn't raised to knock on the toilet door. Were you? I was raised to turn the door handle and if it's locked, too bad. You wait your turn or find another toilet. Don't knock. Do you think the person inside the toilet is gonna open the door and let you in? NO......
One of these days, I'm gonna open the friggin door and just stand there......

Ex's?

What is it.....in the pit of our stomach....that churns when we run into our ex's? Is it hate? Is it anger? Is it fear? Is it those old memories rushing back....whether they be good or bad? Could it still be "love"? But the reality of why you split in the first place smacks you in the face and makes you carry on as if nothing was going on.

I ran into an ex and his family last night at work. I hold no ill feelings towards this ex and to be honest, I really liked his family. They still treat me as if I was one of their own. Of course he kept dropping hints that I need to come visit his parents....."come see us sometime". (He lives next door to his parents.) Now, I know he knows that I'm married now. So why even go there? Why even sit there in the waiting room.....staring at me....making me feel uncomfortable? I know he still loves me. He always will. He told me that when I broke it off with him. He's single.....will probably never get married. He was one of my old high school sweethearts. And a part of me will always love him. But, alas, the reason we broke up comes sneaking back into my mind and I realize why I had to move on.

Ex's.....there's a reason they're just that.

If a dog were your teacher.....

If a dog were your teacher you would learn stuff like...

- When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
- Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
- Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
- When it's in your best interest -- practice obedience.
- Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
- Take naps and stretch before rising.
- Run, romp, and play daily.
- Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
- Avoid biting, when a simple growl will do.
- On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
- On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.
- When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
- No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout... run right back and make friends.
- Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
- Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
- Be loyal.
- Never pretend to be something you're not.
- If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
- When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

Squash Casserole Recipe

Here's a recipe I make quite often.....and made even more before surgery. I kinda invented this myself.....using the famous "green bean casserole" recipe.

Squash Casserole:

Appx 4-5 med yellow summer squash (sliced thin)
2 tbsp veg oil
Few slices of onion
1/2 cup milk
1 small can French's Fried Onions
Salt & Pepper to taste
1 can Fat Free mushroom soup

Slice up squash and put it in a frying pan with veg oil and onion. Add salt & pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 20 mins or until squash and onions are good and mushy.

Drain and place squash in a baking dish. Add milk and 1/2 can french's fried onions. Mix well. Add more salt and pepper if you wish. I sometimes add different spices depending on my mood. Bake on 350 degrees for about 20 mins. Sprinkle rest of fried onions on top and bake an additional 5-7 mins. Take out and serve warm.

YUM! I was thinking tonight that ground beef and shredded cheese might taste well in this too! I might have to try it.

What did we do before computers?

I've been looking at old high school pics recently and connecting with old high school friends thru facebook. Alot of these folks I haven't seen since graduation! It makes me sit and wonder, what did we do before computers?

I can remember hanging out with my friends back in the day....."cruising" and partying. Now it seems folks just play on the internet and party. I can't imagine my life without my computer. It's how I stay in touch with friends. And forget about writing a letter! I wouldn't dream of it!

With all this technology at our fingertips, could we ever go back to the way we used to function? I don't think we would survive. A friend emailed me a while ago and said we cannot use facebook at work anymore. "It looks bad for the department." I mean, what' so bad with facebook? I can understand "myspace". Alot of the doctors use facebook at work. Will they be written up as well?

Guess I wont be able to pass the time looking at friends pictures anymore.......

What's the 4-2-0 ?

I've heard people say "4-2-0" before and I wondered what the heck they were talking about. Me not really giving a crap, didn't ask. Now, I see and hear it more. So, I decided to do some searching on the net. This is what I found:

"4:20 or 4/20 (pronounced four-twenty) is a term used in North America to refer to the consumption of cannabis and, by extension, a way to identify oneself with the drug subculture around cannabis."

"Although there are many explanations for the origin of the term, one stems from a story about a group of teenagers at San Rafael High School in San Rafael, California in 1971. The teens would meet after school at 4:20 p.m. to smoke marijuana at the Louis Pasteur statue. The term became part of their group's salute, "420 Louis!" and became popularized in the late 1980s by fans of the Grateful Dead. By extension April 20 ("4/20" in U.S. dating shorthand) has evolved into a counterculture holiday, where people gather to celebrate and consume cannabis. In some locations this celebration coincides with Earth Week. In Dunedin, New Zealand, students at the University of Otago and other cannabis law reform activists meet under a walnut tree on the Otago University Union Lawn on Wednesdays and Fridays at 4:20pm to openly smoke cannabis in public in what they call an 'act of protest'."

"Phrases such as "420 friendly" sometimes appear in roommate advertisements, indicating that the current occupants are tolerant of cannabis users. That phrase is also used in personal ads to denote the same association. 420 is the title of a comic book series featuring the alternative superhero Captain Cannabis. Noting that "the national weed smoking day is 4/20," rapper Method Man named his 2006 album 4:21... The Day After."

Reference: Wikipedia. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/420_(cannabis_culture)


Interesting. Very interesting.

Buffalo Wild Wings

So here I sit in BWW surrounded by about 35 TV's and a loud crowd. I just had their chicken tender salad. I chose the honey BBQ sauce on my chicken. It was quite tasty. I only ate a few bites but I wanted to share how good it was. My husband will be happy to get the leftovers. Their chicken is very tender and it falls apart on your fork. HEAVEN for GB patients who have those "sensitive" stomachs......

Their parmesean garlic has been my poison so far. And.....I think it's still my fav!


Tanya

One thing that aggravates me.....

One thing that aggravates me more than anything is seeing people wearing those sweat pants and shorts with words written across their butts.....I mean, come on people. Most of the ones I see are people who shouldn't be drawing attention to their asses anyway. (Trust me, nothing to look at!)

So folks, if you're gonna be wearing those sweats, make sure you have a butt that looks good in them. I mean, I can't wear something like that cuz I DEFINITELY dont wanna draw any attention to my ass. It needs some more work!

Tanya

Product Review: PB2

I'm always looking for some good, lowfat, high protein foods. I saw this on "theworldaccordingtoeggface" 's blog and decided to order some. I got the choc peanut flavor and reg peanut flavor. It's basically peanut butter "powder" without the oil and fat. You can mix it with water or put it in protein drinks. I made mine with a protein drink tonight and it's pretty good!

You can get 2 Tbsp of this stuff for 52 cals, 1.42 fat grams and 3.85g of protein. Two Tbsp of "real" peanut butter has 190 cals, 14g fat and 7g protein. Um...don't know about you, but I'll take the healthier one. My husband even tasted it and liked it!

I could probably eat this stuff dry it tastes so good! This stuff is made by Bell Plantation in Tifton, GA. http://www.bellplantation.com/

Take it from Tanya......Another good find!

Regular Peanut Butter stats.

Remind me why I married a deer hunter????

I need to do a little ranting right now so here I am. I knew when I married my husband that he hunted. I had no problem with that. However, I believe that family should come first. My husband, on the other hand, thinks deer hunting prevails over all things in this world. This is where we fight. Often.

Three weeks ago we had a combined birthday party for our youngest and oldest kids. My brother and his wife drove up from their home that's 45 mins away and brought their 2 girls. Well, this past weekend was his oldest's birthday party and I had to work 7p-7a. They wanted our youngest, Kali, to come and spend the night, as it was a sleepover party. I said that shouldn't be a problem that one of us would see that she gets down there to the party. When I hung up the phone, my husband looks at me and goes "You know I'm gonna be hunting." I looked at him and said "The party isn't until 4pm. Can't you hunt in the morning and then take Kali down in the evening?" He goes "Nope. Gonna be hunting all day."

Now, I have an issue with choosing to hunt over your family. This isn't the first fight we've had over hunting. I could be in the hospital dying and he would be in the woods hunting. I just don't get it. Can someone please explain it to me? To me, nothing should come before your family other than God. It was just ONE day. He could have hunted in the morning and went to the birthday party that evening. This isn't the first time our kids have had to give up something they wanted to do so he could hunt. Our middle son has a birthday in January and he always wants to have a birthday party/sleepover and my husband tells him no because he will be hunting on that Saturday. Instead, he tells him he can have a birthday party on Sunday and have friends over. Again, hunting comes first.

It really makes me sad. He wasn't like this when we dated. If he had been, I probably wouldn't have married him.

Tanya

In A Split Second

I often wonder if we really take the time to stop and think how precious life really is....and how our life can change in a split second.

I know a young 17yr old who wrecked his car the other night on a slick, rain filled road. He lost control of it on the wet roads and slid into a tree. The sad thing is he had 2 passengers, who were 17 and 18 as well, and the passengers had been drinking. They called him for a ride to another friend's home. The front seat passenger ended up dying on the operating table and the backseat passenger is still in ICU under observation.

This young boy was at home, filling out college applications and in a split second, his life changed. He did the responsible thing and went to give 2 friends a ride who had no business driving themselves. Now, he's charged with reckless driving and vehicular manslaughter. WTH? He was the only sober one in the vehicle and his car slid on a curvy, wet road.

I feel for this kid. I hope he can find it in himself to realize he was NOT to blame. He did not kill his friend. His grief is weighing him down now.....God be with him.....

Product Review: Walmart Beef Jerky

If you're like me, you're always looking for a good protein snack. Being a nurse, I don't always get a break at work. So, I like to pack a few snacks for the night in case I don't get a meal break. I usually pack something related to or containing a little peanut butter and maybe some nuts or a slice of velveeta cheese. I decided to try the Beef Jerky from Walmart and surprisingly, it's not bad.

It costs about $5 a pack here and it has 70 cals and 15g of protein per 1 oz.

The only downfall I can see is it has 810mg of sodium per serving! Ouch! Can you say "water retention"?

If you try it, let me know whatcha think!

Product Review: AchievOne Protein Drink

I must say, I'm not that crazy about protein drinks. At least the powder forms anyway. I have found one that I buy from Bariatric Eating that I do like. It's ready to drink in glass bottles. It comes 12 to a case for about $29.99 plus S&H. It is 120 cals and 20g protein per drink. The flavors I recommend are mocha java, vanilla nut and cappuccino (pictured). If you like iced coffee, these are for you. Out of the three mentioned, I think I like the vanilla nut the best. But, they are hard to keep in stock! I just ordered some mocha java today for $43 total. BE ships thru UPS and it is at your door step in 2-3 days. They also give you a store credit on any item you purchase that you do not like just as long as you return what is unused.

Tanya

God Love Her! No wonder I was fat!

Here's some recipes I came across that my grandma passed down to my mom. I don't eat this anymore but it sure sounded good. I can remember going to my grandma's every Sunday after church for a full table of southern cooked food! For those of you who haven't had WLS surgery, feel free to make and enjoy!

Tanya

Pig Pickin' Cake

1 box pineapple cake mix
1/2 cup wesson oil
4 eggs
1-11oz can mandarin oranges and juice

Mix all together, bake in 4 layers at 325 for 15 mins or until done.

Filling/Frosting:
1-9oz cool whip
1 lg can crushed pineapple and juice
1-3oz pkg vanilla instant pudding
1/2 cup chopped nuts

Mix all together and fill and frost cake.

Tomato Gravy
melt 1 stick butter
pour in flour - make gravy
pour in diced tomatoes
add salt/pepper
stir until done
Serve over biscuits.

Corn Pudding
1 can corn
2 tsp corn starch
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 stick butter
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs beaten
1/2 cup milk
cook on 350 for 45 mins.

Let me know how you like it if you try it guys!

The Room

The Room

17-year-old Brian Moore had only a short time to write something for a class. The subject was What Heaven Was Like. 'I wowed 'em,' he later told his father, Bruce. 'It's a killer. It's the bomb. It's the best thing I ever wrote.' It also was the last.

Brian's parents had forgotten about the essay when a cousin found it while cleaning out the teenager's locker at Teays Valley High School in Pickaway County. Brian had been dead only hours, but his parents desperately wanted every piece of his life near them, notes from classmates and teachers, his homework. Only two months before, he had handwritten the essay about encountering Jesus in a file room full of cards detailing every moment of the teen's life. But it was only after Brian's death that Beth and Bruce Moore realized that their son had described his view of heaven. It makes such an impact that people want to share it. 'You feel like you are there.' Mr. Moore said. Brian Moore died May 27, 1997, the day after Memorial Day. He was Driving home from a friend's house when his car went off Bulen-Pierce Road in Pickaway County and struck a utility pole. He emerged from the wreck unharmed but stepped on a downed power line and was electrocuted. The Moores framed a copy of Brian's essay and hung it among the Family portraits in the living room. 'I think God used him to make a point. I think we were meant to find it and make something out of it, ' Mrs. Moore said of the essay. She and her husband want to share their son's vision of life after death. 'I'm happy for Brian. I know he's in heaven. I know I'll see him again one day.'

Brian's Essay:

The Room

In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in The Room. There were no distinguishing features, except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and Seemingly endless in either direction, had very different headings. As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read 'Girls I Have Liked.' I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one. And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching. A file named 'Friends' was next to one marked 'Friends I Have Betrayed.' The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird. 'Books I Have Read,' 'Lies I Have Told,' 'Comfort I Have Given,' 'Jokes I Have Laughed At.' Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: 'Things I've Yelled at My Brothers.' Others I couldn't laugh at: 'Things I Have Done in My Anger', 'Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents.' I never ceased to be surprised by the contents. Often there were many more cards than I expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived. Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to fill each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature. When I pulled out the file marked 'TV Shows I Have Watched ,' I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of shows but more by the vast time I knew that file represented. When I came to a file marked 'Lustful Thoughts,' I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size, and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded. An almost animal rage broke on me. One thought dominated my mind: No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!' In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards. But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it. Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh. And then I saw it. The title bore 'People I Have Shared the Gospel With.' The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand. And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then, as I wiped away the tears, I saw Him. No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus. I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did He have to read every one? Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me. Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. 'No!' I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was 'No, no,' as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, 'It is finished.' I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written. 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'- Phil.. 4:13 'For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.'


This was emailed to me by a friend. Thought I would share.

You know you've had weight loss surgery when......

You know You've had Weight Loss Surgery When...

* I have a date" does not mean you're going out.
* You have baby food in the house and no baby.
* "I'm a loser" is a good thing.
* "Welcome to the other side" doesn't include death.
* New clothes fall off in a week.
* You get excited about hand me downs.
* The scale at Wal-Mart no longer says "one at a time please".
* Going bald and getting wrinkles is a good thing.
* "Just water for me please".
* When your rear end no longer looks like a mudslide.
* When you get excited that your incision was "only 4 inches".
* When the word lap has nothing to do with a strip club.
* Other women are calling you names behind your back.
* When you are glared at in the plus size department because you don't "belong there".
* When you really don't have a thing to wear.
* You have to prove you are the person on the driver's license.
* You start being in the pictures, not behind the camera.
* You want to hug everyone fat and hand them your surgeon's card.
* You are never parted from a bottle of water.
* When you order a doggy bag at the same time as your meal.
* Being too small for your britches.
* When the only way your nipples are where they belong is to roll them up, position them with your bra and secure with a ponytail holder.
* When you go to the mall and take the first available space instead of circling 20 minutes for one closer to the door.
* You truly are a "cheap date".
* When one drink makes you flipping floozy!
* When you run to the door and don't hear a flapping sound.
* You flip your shirt to show complete strangers your scar.
* Vitamins feel like a meal.
* You go from a 56DDDD to 32AAA in a year and didn't have a breast reduction.
* You've just lost 100 lbs and run into a high school friend who asks "did you change your hair?"
* You can cross your legs... both of them!
* Instead of a Wonder Bra you need a Wonder Where They Went Bra.
* When your obsession from food turns to your scale.
* They no longer call 911 for the Jaws of life to extricate you from a turnstile.
* No more Velcro shoes.
* When your Stairmaster is no longer used for drying your fine washables.
* Your mother says "You don't eat enough."
* When your doctor looks you in the eye and says "I know you will have success with this."
* Having sex your husband complains that your hip bones are poking him.
* You can wear corduroy pants without igniting a fire.
* When you wave and your upper arms wave back.
* You safety pin your underwear.
* Someone phones and thinks your husband is sneaking around with some skinny mistress.
* Cannot blame the cat/dog for shedding.
* Cancel your Lane Bryant Credit Card.
* 3 Lean Cuisines a week and that's your total grocery purchase.
* The kids wonder what happened to the cake and cookie god...did he die???
* Having to constantly BLAME the dog for your gas!

Love this! It's so true!

Tanya

I Almost Passed Her By.....

Read this on a friend's blog tonight and wanted to share. I love this story! Those of you who know me, know I'm a dog lover. I lost my first born 4 legged baby, Kurby, a couple of years ago. I was devastated. My heart goes out to this lady.


ALMOST PASSED HER BY
by Jackie Griffith

After I lost my Angel, my beloved little white Poodle in 1995, I decided to try to find another small dog. Dakota, a German Shepherd/Husky mix was a great dog and a wonderful protector at 100 pounds, but he wasn't exactly a lap dog. I called the shelter and they told me that they had a little black Poodle/Schnauzer mix, but she hadn't been cleaned up and she was matted and stinky. I left immediately to go see her.

As I walked down the aisle to her kennel in the back, I passed a pretty buff and white Sheltie mix that looked like a miniature Lassie. When I was a little girl, I watched the Lassie show on television, and like millions of other kids, I wanted a dog like Lassie, too. But I looked at all that long hair, said "Good luck, baby" and I continued to the back.

They handed the matted little bundle to me, still yapping and whining. Her front feet encircled my neck as her back feet desperately clawed their way up my chest. To their obvious surprise, I told them I wanted her. They gave me her number card and I went back to the front to pay. On the way up the aisle, the mini-Lassie looked up at me with those beautiful liquid brown eyes. Her tail tentatively gave a little wag, but regretfully, I said "Sorry, baby," and kept going. However, as I was writing out the check up front, I kept seeing this pretty little Lassie face floating in front of my eyes, so I surprised myself when I stopped and told the attendant, "I'll take both of them."

Surprised, she said, "Really?!" I went back to get Lassie's number as well. As we walked out to the car, one on each side of me, the little black Poodle/Schnauzer mix who would be Rascal tried to attack Lassie, so I had to get someone help me get them to my car. I crawled into the back seat with them. I sat and petted both of them and in a firm tone, told them that they were going to be sisters, so they had to get along. There was to be NO fighting! I talked to them for several minutes, repeating over and over, that I would love them both. They would be my babies and they were never to fight. And there was no fighting, ever again.

From the shelter, we went directly to the vet's office to get them both checked out and then home. Dakota was playing in the backyard with a half-deflated football he'd picked up someplace. I was hoping the introductions would go well, but when I let the two new little ones out of the car, still on leash, the little black runt showed remarkable moxie by trying to attack Dakota. She jumped straight into the air on legs that were like coiled springs. She succeeded in getting in his face although he was about 6 times bigger than she was! Lassie was obviously intimidated by his size and she first backed up a couple steps and then ran, dragging her leash with Dakota loping along right behind her. Not exactly what I had in mind! I thought Lassie would keep running, and was preparing to go search for her, but she ran around the house and came back to me and stopped. Dakota just wanted to have some fun by teasing her. She seemed to sense that and they were best buddies from that point on. All three of them took off across the yard with the beat-up football, playing their version of "take away." From that moment on, all three of them became extremely close. Where one was, they all wanted to be. They would vie for my attention but there was never any jealousy between them, just love. Lassie obviously adored the "big guy." Lassie would lick his face as they rested, and he'd bare his teeth as if he were saying, "Don't make over me!!" Rascal was the one that wanted to wrestle all the time, and one of them usually accommodated her until she tired and fell asleep still wrapped around them.

In October of 2003 we lost Rascal to Cushings Disease. I had never heard of it. There was no cure and it is always fatal. It was so very hard to lose her, and I hung on as long as I could. Lassie and Dakota remained close, nearly connected at the hip. Our cat population gradually increased as I rescued some in bad situations, and if I wasn't in the room or if I simply don't notice trouble brewing between the cats, Lassie quickly stepped in between them to settle things down. They respected her and simply walked away from each other. I called her my kitty-sitter.

Then a couple days ago, I found my beautiful little girl dead in the yard. It was a horrible surprise. I was afraid Dakota, on medication and nutrients, wouldn't make it through winter, and it was Lassie that we lost. I held her on my lap and sobbed for a long time before I could call my brothers and ask for their help.

In the last two years I had rescued two more dogs who were in serious trouble, so our canine family had grown to four dogs. And now they are three. Fortunately, I have a large home with lots of room for dog beds, kitty climbing and hiding places, and God has blessed me with the ability to care for them. Our vets and the office staff have become good friends over the years. I know that my family and friends will also mourn the loss of my beautiful Lassie, now at rest in the pet cemetery at the rear of our property.

And to think, I almost passed her by.

-- Jackie Griffith

Baked Ricotta Recipe......

Here's another one of my favorites!


Baked Ricotta

• 8 oz of Ricotta Cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup Marinara Sauce
• 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Mix ricotta cheese, parmesan, beaten egg, seasonings together and place in a oven proof dish. Pour marinara on top and top with mozzarella cheese. Bake it in the oven @ 425 for about 20-25 minutes.

I usually make it first in the oven and heat the leftovers in the microwave.

Now, I will say that I bake mine for about 15 mins, then top it with the mozzarella cheese. The first time I made it with the cheese on top the entire time, the cheese was too hard. Now I make it and add the cheese 1/2 way thru and it's nice and mushy!

Another Yummy recipe found on Obesityhelp.com!

Taco Soup Recipe.....TO DIE FOR!!!!

Okay guys. This is a recipe I make almost weekly since my surgery.

Taco Soup

1 pound browned ground beef (I use lean ground beef)
1 can black beans
1 can chili beans
1 can stewed tomatoes
1 can rotel (I use mild)
1 can corn
1 can green beans (optional)
1 can beer (optional)
1 package taco seasoning
1 package ranch dressing


Cook all in crockpot. Serve with tortilla chips. I did not add the beer or rotel to mine. I also did not eat chips with mine.

I put a little in a bowl and added shredded cheese and a spoonful of sour cream on the top. It is VERY yummy! I freeze any leftovers in small, single serving freezer bags and reheat it on a rainy day!


Tanya

Surgery Update

I saw Dr. Schroder's NP 9/11 for a checkup. It's been almost 6 mos since my 1 year checkup. I have lost 3 pounds since that last visit. I told her I was on a stall and I knew I needed to get back to exercising 3-4 times a week (as I have slacked off this summer) and cut the sweet tea out! I have been without a sweet tea for a week now and the first few days were AWFUL.....I had severe headaches. Guess I was detoxing from sugar.I went to a support group meeting after my meeting as I was already there. It was the first one I've been to since my surgery, as I live 3 hrs away. It was an "ok" meeting. I must admit I almost fell asleep in the middle. There were some people there with SERIOUS food issues....STILL! For example, buying food that is bad for them and then not eating it.....but driving over it with their car tires! Man....I don't have THOSE problems! I felt like I was in a psych group meeting. I found the recipes and handouts the best part of the meeting. It's nice to know there are others that are going thru what I'm going thru. I think if I go again, it will be on the 3rd thursday since that is the meeting for people with those "last few pounds" to lose. As for my eye update: I saw Dr. Vogel 2 wks ago and he's pleased that my eye is no longer bleeding and the blood has dissolved. I have permanent scar tissue in that eye but my vision has improved! I'll take it! I just hope it doesn't start bleeding again in the future.
Meanwhile, here's a recent pic of me all dolled up!

Thank You!

Why is it so hard for us to say "Thank You"?

It's just two little words. Yet, we seldom say it. Us in the medical profession seldom hear it. Us ER staff go to work every day, to care for the public, and the public rarely finds it in their hearts to say "Thanks".

"Thanks for getting me that pillow."

"Thanks for getting me back quickly and medicating me for pain while I wait."

"Thanks for holding my hand when I was scared."

"Thanks for sitting with me when I was crying because my mom just died."

"Thanks for taking care of me when I know you had other, more sicker, patients to care for."

"Thanks for going to the cafeteria and getting me a meal tray when I know you had other things to be doing."

"Thanks for fighting for my rights as a patient and seeing that the staff upstairs assigned me a bed quickly."

"Thanks for bringing me that warm blanket and dimming my lights."

"Thanks for being so nice to my family when they were jerks."

"Thanks for helping save my life."

I don't even require a "thank you"....a simple "thanks" would do.



Now...on to why I'm rambling at 3:30am.....besides the fact that I can't sleep. Thanks night shift!.......

I saw Dr. Vogel today for my "eye checkup". He was very pleased and said the blood has dissolved. There is a small area of scar tissue there that will never go away. I am very grateful for Dr. Vogel and his expertise. This man is right up there on my top list of people who I adore! Dr. Vogel saved my vision. Now, don't get me wrong.....God gave him the knowledge to do what he does. God gave him steady and skillful hands....steady hands that very easily pushed that needle into my eyeball....three times! I'm just grateful he's a retinal specialist and lives in this area! I made sure that I thanked him and his staff for the best treatment I could have asked for. They were very professional and polite to me every time I was there. I brought him a basket of goodies (candy) ....and not the cheap kind! You would have thought he won the lottery. He had the biggest grin on his face. It's amazing what a little "thank you" will do! Then he thanked me for thanking him! Amazing!

So people...the next time you rely on someone in the medical field to take care of you....please be grateful and say "thank you." It means more than you know. We didn't go into this field to be unappreciated. We went into this field for YOU!

10 years has passed.....

My 10 year nursing school reunion is tonight at a fellow classmate's home. I can't believe it has been 10 years since I walked that isle and received my diploma for 3 years of pain, sweat and tears. I can't wait to see my fellow classmates. I purchased a "little black dress" and black high heels to wear! I don't do high heels. I hope I don't break an ankle!

On another note.....
I haven't posted since my last eye checkup. Dr. Vogel is very pleased as he said the blood has dissolved in my right eye. My vision has also improved. It's not back to normal and it won't ever be back to normal....but hey, it's better! I go back in 2 wks for another "recheck". I guess he'll tell me if I need more visits after that. Keep me in your prayers!

Eye Update.....

Eye Update.....
I saw Dr. Vogel again this evening. He was pleased that my vision has improved. It's gone from 20/70 to 20/40. He dilated my eyes and had a look. He said the bleeding is the same, no smaller. He also said the fluid in the macula was "less" which is good. He wants me back in 3 wks for another avastin injection. He said "Your eye is no worse which is good news." Hey, I'll take it!
I asked him for a copy of my eye photos. Once I get them, I'll post them for others to view. I also asked him if it was contagious and he said no. I asked him that because I remember taking care of a patient when I was in nursing school who had histoplasmosis in her lungs. I also asked if being raised on a farm when I was little could have caused this and he said "yes". So, I guess I know where I could have contracted this from.....chickens!
I asked him if it was a chance the the bleeding would go away completely and he said "yes". I'm kinda bummed that the bleeding is no smaller. But, considering it could have been larger, I'll take "the same".
Keep your fingers crossed my vision continues to get better. Say little prayers for me.....heck, say BIG prayers for me. I need my eyes!

I posted a pic of the retinal hemorrhage above......nasty, huh?

Ocular Histoplasmosis?????

Hello guys. I'm new here. This is copied from my blog:
The vision in my right eye started getting blurry last week. I didn't think too much of it because heck, let's admit it....I'm getting old. Both my parents had to get glasses later in life. Up until last week, I've had 20/20 vision. So, I called and made an appt to have an eye exam.
I went friday for my eye exam and I was told I have a retinal hemorrhage with satellite lesions in my right eye. The eye doctor told me you usually see this in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or some type of infection. Now, I have none of these. She did say I do not have any swelling on the optic nerve, which is good. I have an appt to see a retinal specialist first thing tomorrow morning.
Update 4/14/08: I saw Dr. Vogel first thing this morning. He is a retinal specialist and is supposed to be the best around. He seems to think I have come in contact with histoplasmosis in the past and this has scarred parts of both of my eyes. (The right eye is worse.) He says this can cause abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye and this is what has happened in my right eye. Those vessels have burst and is bleeding in my retina. There is some edema and fluid pocket there but luckily there is no swelling on the optic nerve....yet.
My options: I have elected to proceed with 3 injections of Avastin, given 6 wks apart in the right eye. YES, a needle will go in my eye! Avastin is a cancer drug that is FDA approved to stop bleeding/growth of abnormal vessels. It is NOT FDA approved to use in the eyes but eye doctors use it off market and have great results with it. As with anything, there is side effects and possibilities of worsening. He said we will remain optomistic but worse case scenerio, I can end up losing my vision in my right eye. He said this is pretty progressive if left untreated. So, I go back tomorrow for my first injections. Keep your fingers crossed that all goes well. I'm NOT happy about a needle going in my eye!
Update 4/15/08: I went today and had my first injection of Avastin. He numbned my eye and then put a metal brace in my right eye to keep it open. He cleaned it well with betadine and flushed it out with saline. He then injected the medicine. I must admit, it was a little pressure but nothing too bad. It was over in a flash. I kept my right eye closed most of the day as it was fuzzy. It is starting to get better now. I haven't really noticed any improvement yet. I hope that will come over the next few days. My eye does feel a little "irritated" like there's an eyelash or something in it. They said this is normal and to use artificial tears along with my antibiotic drops for 3 days.
If there's anyone out there going thru what I am and would like to keep in touch, please email me at :ERRNVA@aol.com. I am 35yrs old and an ER RN. This is all new to me and very scary. I really need my eyes in my profession. I am also an avid photographer!

Crazy Ex-Bosses!

I receive a call from a nurse friend of mine last friday, who used to be my co-worker when I worked for the state. She informs me that our "old boss" who has been demoted to a "regular ole nurse" has been escorted out the building via state police and the "powers that be" in Richmond. She is on a 10 day suspension pending an investigation regarding her behaviors.

HELLO.....I tried to tell them she was CRAZY when I left. I guess what goes around, comes around. I just hope she can get some professional help because she truly is disturbed.
Maybe the "good" people I used to work with can now see some peace.

Dang it’s hard to get rid of someone once they work for the state. It’s like an act of congress to get rid of the people who suck and don’t do their job. They basically have to kill someone to get fired. And believe you me, she has threatened to do it. That’s why she was suspended.....at least one of the reasons she was.

Hit the floor

I was at work last night and was nice enough to stay over 1 1/2 hrs for a nurse who was going to be late. I was doing the narcotic count with her and suddenly felt nauseous. Then I felt really hot, like I was going to throw up. My vision started getting blurry and I turned to my left to attempt to sit down. The next thing I know, I was lying on the floor looking up at the other nurse calling my name and yelling "are you okay?"

Now, I have NEVER had this happen before. I have NEVER passed out. I don't know what the heck happened. Luckily, we have a machine there that checks vital signs and blood sugars. My blood pressure was normal and my blood sugar was normal. I go to see my surgeon in 2 wks for my 1 year check up. I will discuss this with him and see what he thinks.

Are we too busy to stop?

My friend who lives in Winston-Salem, NC called me a few hrs ago to talk about getting tickets to see Jimmy Buffett in April. She goes on to tell me that she was ran out the road the other day by a tractor trailer. She was on the interstate going 70mph in Greensboro, NC when this happened. It was 5:30am and she doubts the tractor trailer driver even knew about it. She said her car spun around on the interstate a few times and then her car ended up backwards lying on its side in the median of the interstate facing the wrong direction. Now, the next part is the part I'm having difficulties with....

SHE SAT IN THE MEDIAN, CAR SIDEWAYS IN THE DITCH, FACING THE WRONG WAY, WITH HER HEADLIGHTS ON.....FOR 45 MINUTES AND NO ONE STOPPED TO SEE IF SHE WAS OKAY. She said cars were racing by and not the FIRST person stopped to see if she needed help. No cop came.....NOTHING.

Now, I'm sorry....I realize we are a very busy society and we are all trying to get to work but what ever happened to compassion? What ever happened to checking on others to see if they're okay? She called her husband, who was 45 mins away, and he drove up and pulled her out of the ditch with his truck and STILL no one stopped to see if they needed help. At least someone could have called the cops to get them go check on her.

What have we come to? Are we too busy in our lives to stop to see if another living being is okay or needs help? I'm sorry but I'd stop. Maybe I'm one of a dying breed.

People are Strange....

I had some errands to run today so I went out to Subway to grab some lunch. I ordered a "steak & cheese" wrap. The girl asked me if I wanted "double" meat. I said "No", as I cannot eat that much anyway. I decided to eat inside because I did not want to eat in my new car.

Now, I admit.....I'm a people watcher. I think you can learn alot by watching others. Especially in today's society. One couple who came in and sat near me was quite odd. They chose to sit at a table that was dirty. There were plenty of other tables that were clean. Then, when the Subway staff ran over to clean the table, the woman spoke up and said "No, that's okay. You can spray some of that cleaner on my hands though." WHAT????? CLEANER ON YOUR HANDS??? WTF???? She proceeds to wipe the cleaner all over both hands and then she unwraps her sub and eats it.

Now, I'm sitting here thinking to myself "this woman is nuts!!!!" If she doesn't end up in the toilet puking or pooping the rest of the day, it will be a miracle. She's one of those people who will be in the ER going "I don't know what happened. I was fine when I woke up."

I just shook my head and went on to my car. If she wants to ingest "God knows what" cleaner, then so be it.


Tanya

She-Wolf

She-Wolf


Lured away. One by one.
Unaware of the danger ahead.
Innocent with the knowledge unformed.
Of the trap that leaves so many dead.
Desire and the need for attention
Leave so many wanting more.
The dangers that lie ahead
Are locked behind a closed door.
The willing cannot resist the temptations
Of the much wanted sin.
That keep them coming back
Over and over again.
What is this evil force you may ask
That leads innocent souls away, one by one?
Why it's none other than the evil She-Wolf
On her nightly She-Wolf run.


~by Tanya S. 10/18/89