Delightful Christmas

I hope everyone had a delightful Christmas as I did. I am blessed with wonderful kids who married equally wonderful people. For the second year we had a sleep over Christmas eve. It started when everyone was talking about coming here in the morning and Walker objected because Christmas is when you stay in your pajamas all day. We had to agree so did a sleep over. It worked out so good we did it again. We do our stockings then have breakfast and finally open presents one at a time. Sometimes we did the Santa present before breakfast. All off this takes time so you can see why Walker didn't want to get dressed and have to wait to start. You might wonder how the just the stockings can be enough before breakfast. Ours are big. I made them when my kids were small and as they got older the quest for stocking stuffers became more difficult. Did that stop me from making them for the boys? No. At least now there are more people to help fill. How big you ask? The biggest apple and orange you can find fill about one third of the foot. It is interesting to see how each one empties their stocking. Walker looks at each item and moves on. Sam looks at everything one at a time and checks to see what it is and how it works. Miles dumps everything out and then looks at what he finds most interesting. After the usual scrambled eggs, bacon and sausage and monkey bread, the fun begins. Some times it takes a very long time because everyone has to look at a present for a while before moving on. Often there is a story behind the gift to share. This year Walker got books and that always brings everything to a stop while he reads the back to see what it is about. Sam is almost as bad. When they read they do not hear anything. We finished opening about noon. Lunch was left overs from Christmas eve dinner. Finally the mean parents : -) insisted the boys get dressed and go outside for a while. A beautiful dry day brought others out too. It was also an opportunity for Kari and Garrett to see the demolition work Todd and his father-in-law had completed in preparation for remodeling. Caregiver Cindy then had time to give me a shower. Soon Kari and Garrett had to leave so they could celebrate with his family the next day. I am definitely spoiled to have them all on Christmas eve and Christmas Day. This year Christmas continued as TCWSM spent another night here. I miss my favorite editor

Three Blind Mice

Unfortunately the title is not accurate. We have (or had) more than 3 and they were not blind. This adventure started more than a month ago. Kari and Garrett were here and sleeping in the former media room in the basement. They heard the scurrying of little feet. Looking in daylight confirmed their suspicion. Mouse droppings were in many places in the basement. Not good news because the space between the ceiling of the media room and floor above was insulated but had access all along one side. This gave them access to walls above. During their clean up several areas indicated activity. They found 2 traps and set them them in the heavy traveled areas. Monday morning caregiver Cindy called the pest control company. They set out 6 more traps and they plugged up two probable entry spots. Early in the week we had some success. We did not know where all should the traps were but felt good about the 5 we caught. Todd especially liked catching two in one trap. Friday the exterminator found two more in more his trap. By then we should have realized that the 7 trapped meant there were many more including babies. To make a long story short we continued to find more evidence including in pantry and kitchen. By now they were we ignoring the traps too. Something had to be done. Now it Thanksgiving week. Marlene, a friend from Bakersfield, was here. She has a marketing company and and one of her longtime clients is a pest control company. She and Kari spent most of Friday finding and cleaning up droppings all over the basement, pantry, kitchen and even bedroom. Marlene knew about bait houses and other options so offered to call the exterminator Monday morning before she left. The call only resulted in a statement that the manager would call back. As the day progressed with no call I emailed a friend who had a positive experience with a different company. She quickly responded with the information and contacted them to expect my call. They were able to come out Tuesday morning and do what Marlene told us to expect. What about our regular company you ask. The manager did call back on Wednesday. When I told him I had another company working on the problem he asked if he could come out and see what needed to be done to prevent future problems. I I said yes. When he was here he asked caregiver Cindy if I had signed a contract with the other company. She said no. When he came back with several suggestion he made it very clear that there would be no charge since they had dropped the ball. That helped me be willing to stay with them. Now it looks like we are mouse free. There are also more plastic containers in the cleaned out pantry. Caregiver Elisa still checks for droppings. The bowls with nuts for snacking have not been put back out. All the bags with nuts now live in the freezer. I want to remain mouse free.

YEA the temperature got above freezing yesterday for a short time. It might even get to 40 today. This California girl who spent winters in Mexico has had to adjust. My saying was if you have to wear more than shorts and a t-shirt it is to cold does not even apply to Oregon summer.

execues

Just a quick update. My right leg that I write with is gradually becoming undependable. The toes can still help with some things so I still wear only one shoe and have toes cut out of my sock. My left leg is still learning. I find it extremely difficult to drive with just socks on so wear a shoe.. Where am I going with all this? It is a long way of saying that it is not easy to write. Alternative is to use eyegaze. Some days it is so easy and other days it is impossible. Consequently it is difficult to do much writing. My energy has been used to prepare for a presentation with the director of the ALS Association for Oregon. He got masters degree at Portland State so welcomed the opportunity to present to a masters class. He asked me to participate by preparing the answers to a dozen questions. The topic was about helping with difficult news. As social workers they will have many occasions to that. All the preparations took time. I did most of it using eyegaze, as I am now, so was rather proud of myself. All of you that have sent email I will get going on replies soon and another blog.

TIMBER

Many of you know about the Staghorn Sumac tree outside our our kitchen window. Apparently we drowned it. Coming from a place where average rainfall is 6 inches a year our first thought is to water a sad plant.. Perhaps if we had talked with an arborist earlier it might have been saved. By the time we realized it was sick it was the second year. By then our focus had turned to Dave. Last spring when I talked to an arborist about replacement it was to late in the year. I chose not to take out then because of the almost sculpook of the branches. Besides where else could I am hang my wind catcher and other mobiles.. Now for the story... The weekend of the ALS walk had been a part of a very wet week. The following weekend was beautiful so everyone was outside. I was out on on the deck when Todd, Cindy and the boys stopped by after bike riding to lunch.. Soon Walker asked if they could cut down the tree. When I said yes, both Walker and Sam said really? Then Todd wondered aloud if Poppop had a tree saw. That was all it took. They rushed to the garage and quickly came back with the saw. I am not sure I could have told where to look for it. They must have used it with him. I did not expect the enthusiasm to last long when it became difficult. All three took turns cutting branches until Miles could not do it. At 7 playing with the cut branches was better. When I mentioned we had a long pole trimer Sam used that to cut the many of the outer branches up higher. Knowing how hard it had been for me I was impressed. Meanwhile Walker was working on other limbs. Todd had the opportunity to show them how to guide a larger branch with a rope. The two boys took turns sawing until 9 year old Sam met his match. He stuck to it, sawing from both sides but finally needed help. He then worked on cutting smaller branches off the limbs that were already down. From that point on 11 year old Walker faced the trunk on his own. It was tall enough to require two cuts. He had water and a short break before starting the first cut. With a couple of water breaks andhelp. Walker choose to cut it near the ground without help. We were all really proud of him as he took necessary breaks while we refusing offers what of help. Finally with a sigh of relief it was finished.. His well-deserved pride in finishing a difficult job shone on his face. For me the greatest pleasure was seeing the determination and skill. It was a peek into the the future. ted l

thoughts

Several times a week my caregivers do range of motion and massage to preserve flexibility. During this time we listen to various CD's. Yesterday we were listening to Simon and Garfunkel. That started me thinking about various folk singers from that era. Are there singers doing that style today? Is rap the current folk song? Can anyone provide some insight?

Thanks to all of you that commiserated on my pity party. Dori and Paul, thanks for the card and gentle reminder that people do worry when I don't write.

once again

I am so frustrated! Once again I am looking for new caregivers. I had full coverage but no room for illness or time off. Because I am so special (require lots of skills) people need training before spending hours with me. Working 12 hour days is hard so we needed some relief available. Even though night people do sleep just having 2 people is asking for trouble. Recently the agency identified 2 women that were interested in learning new skills and one wanted only nights or weekends. After interviews everyone was excited. Celebration was premature. Two days later one of the more recent additions to my team gave her 2 weeks notice. Now training became more important. After spending all day Thursday and 4 hours Friday training a new person, she decided she did not want to continue. I am thinking we should not teach shower and range of motion until they work a few regular days. Hopefully the other woman we interviewed will work out.

Wet and Windy Walk Day

Today was the ALS walk. This after walk picture sums up the day. About the best I can say is that there were several thousand people crazy enough to walk during an extreme weather event. Heavy rain and wind usually keep sane people inside. Looking around I noticed how many people had rain pants and water resistant jackets. Of course there were the expected Duck and Beaver rain gear. Even with the nasty weather I am glad I went. There is always so much energy that raises hope that some day there will be a treatment and even a cure for this ##### disease.

Confusion

How can that be? After listening to the news tonight I am confused. While I look out the front window at green leaves the weather report is talking about snow. Leaves have not even begun to change color around here. I don't know how the leaves are above the 5000 to 6000 foot levels where snow is expected.

ALS Walk

I am having trouble getting excited about this years walk. It was walk day last year when Dave's body started to shut down. Kari ended up staying with him and he mostly slept...

I thought that if I started early it would be easier but every time I went to the website I had trouble writing anything inspiring. Forget inspiring just coherent. I do miss my favorite editor, maybe that will be my excuse for poor writing.

So here it is a week before the walk and I am barely doing anything. Fortunately I have some wonderful people that sponsor me every year. Two even sponsored me before I asked.

I did do something new this year. A friend is a graphic artist and I imposed on him to make a sign to hang on the back of my computer about sponsoring me. Of course with Keith's skill it is way better than I even dreamed about. Thanks much. The purpose of the sign was to get participation from some of the people in the neighborhood that all know Quincy. The first time out we did not see a soul. Rethink the time of day. Again probably should have started in the summer. Did give information to two people at a function we went to. It starts the conversation so that is helpful. I will try it again next year with an earlier start.

Life and living

Now that I have a short break from training I want to share some blog entries I started. Morning of August 22nd started like any other training day. Then Todd called to say that Daves 95 year-old father had fallen and broken his hip. The plan was to do surgery at one. Immediately my mind jumped to the worst. Todd went on to say that Daves sister, Margie, had asked the doctor about the risks involved in the surgery. The answer was that not having surgery would confine him to bed. Definitely not what he wanted. Todd was able to talk to Papa and had a great conversation.. Kari also talked with him. She said Papa what are you doing in the hospital? He replied I heard you can get a good sleep here. His humor was intact so all was good. At 1:00:00 I think the entire Greene clan were all there in spirit. Daves other sister, Mary sent a picture afterwards that helped us all relax. Papa was sitting up eating with his usual smile. Fortunately the community where Papa lives has a skilled nursing center so getting him settled was relatively easy. Margie and Mary are becoming pros at it. The best news was last week. Mary took some dominoes to him and he had no problem playing. I am talking about not just matching dots, but where you add points on the end of each arm. The best part was that he tried to cheat. What do I mean by that? All the grandkids learned early that he would cheat and then play innocent. In gin he might put a spade in with clubs and then say oh, did I mess up. His innocent act was bad but the kids learned that you did not have to get mad. So if he is trying to cheat that means the spark is still there.

it goes on

We have friends that named their boat Never Ending Story. That is what I think about the struggle to keep caregiver coverage. I had started to write about doing new caregiver training the last two weeks when a new problem came up. Let's see where to begin. Last spring I was feeling great with a complete caregiver team. It was a good balance of personality and dedication. So why did I have to say something and jinx the entire thing? First Melissa hurt her back. It was the end of the school year so Kelsey-Ann could cover most shifts and still do her regular nights. After finding out that Melissa had 2 slipped disks we knew it would be a long road back. Then Sherry found out her recurring eye problem was much worse than anyone had realized. She was diagnosed with uvites, an inflammation of the color portion of the eye that leads to blindness. She has an appointment with a specialist mid September to see if anything can slow it down. Already she can not see to drive or read. The agency already had someone in mind to take Melissa spot. However when they were trying to make arrangements for her training she told them see had another Monday through Friday job. She was still interested in Saturday and doing some Sunday nights. So Cindy did the day training and Sherry the night. It all looks easy on paper, just a few transfers and tube feeding. The ventilator is a little more complicated. All of this requires lots of my energy so, many things, like writing this blog, get put on hold. Anyway after all that she tells the office that her new job requires her to do some training on the next two Saturdays. Back to square one. Okay, interview the next one. This time Cindy and I developed a hands on interview and skills assessment. She looked good but this time I insisted she have vent training prior to working with me. This helped but it was still an exhausting 3 day training. We all took a breath because it looked like we had a full team. Then Sherry started saying that her vision was getting blurry again after her cateract surgery. That is when Sherry got her devastating news. So next week we start interviews for a night person. I have no idea what we would have done if school had started for Kelsey-Ann. She almost moved in as she did 6 nights a week. That will help with her books. I sure hope things settle down soon.

Choices.   This year the roses have been wonderful.   That leads to a choice.   Do I enjoy them in the garden or bring them in the house?    I decided to only take one at a time in the house.   There is something very pleasing about looking out my bedroom window every morning and seeing the ever changing vibrancy of color.  

Fresh Ink

I had been thinking about doing something new and different for a while...  Back in April, I bought a gift certificate to a local tattoo parlor at the school auction for the boys' school.  On Friday, caregiver Kelseyann and I had agreed that she would come to the house a little earlier so that she could take me to check out the tattoo parlor. She has a few tattoos and recently got a new one so I figured she could be my expert.  She had also been helping me figure out what I wanted my new tattoo to look like. Well the tattoo parlor looked okay so we decided to just get it done!  Kelseyann took pictures to document the event.

Kari had suggested I could go with a sailor theme and get an anchor on my bicep with Dave's name on it. But I decided a heart felt better.

More adventures

After the previous weeks adventures we enjoined a calm beginning to the week.   Monday and Wednesday I was able to get long massage and stretching sessions.   Really showed how important moving and stretching are to keep me comfortable.   Tuesday we enjoyed a delightful lunch with friends.    On Thursday we worked to get things off the list.   Cindy made several phone calls and we even gave Quincy his walk in the morning before it got hot.   

After lunch we started on errands.   One stop was at the ALS Association office to sign and do more paperwork to get the eyegaze system.   One of the mornings calls had been to find out if I had duel core system in my device.   I do and that meant that eyegaze would " only "  cost $9000 rather than $15000.   When private insurance was paying for my toys it was different than medicare.   Thanks to all of you for your contribution.  

Our last stop was at the eye doctors to see what had happened with the dark glasses I had ordered.   Sometimes my chair works well in prodding people.  

This had been one of those days when I had trouble lining up the bolt on the bottom of my chair with the slot on the latch.   Why some days I can slip right in and other days need numerous tries is beyond me. 

This last stop I continued to have trouble and somehow managed to really wedge myself in.   Cindy struggled unsuccessfully to get me free.   The parking lot has a slope so we decided to move to a lot across the street. An added bonus was the shade.   Once again Cindy struggled to maneuver the chair.  

When she admitted she could not get it we decided to drive to Todd's thinking 2 people could do it.   Wrong. By now the chair was wedged in a way that the door would not close.   

Okay now what.   Tried calling Todd but it proved to be a good thing he did not answer.   Next called Auto club.   After explaining the problem the woman put Cindy on hold.   It felt like forever but probably was about 5 minutes.   She came back and said they did not think they could help.  

That left the option that Cindy wanted to do in the first place.   Call 911. Her first words were this is not a life-threatening situation.   Once again she explained the situation and said we needed two strong firemen.    While we waited I wondered if it would be a man that went to high school with Cindy and Todd and now is one of Todd's swimming buddies.   It was not long until we saw the red SUV.   As Cindy had requested we had 2 firemen.   The fact that they were also young and nicely built did not hurt.   After examining the situation they went back to look at various equipment.   They then announced they had a plan.   After attempting that solution for a while they rethought.   I told them together with my chair I was 504 pounds.   The next attempt included a giant ax and a crow bar.   When I asked how they were going to put this in their log, one laughed and said public assistance. The ax did not work as a so it was back to take another look at what they had.

They came back with two heavy straps with large hooks on the end.   This time they said they were resorting to brute force.   Cindy had told the 911 operator that we needed two firemen and brute force.   Right again.   One fireman knelt in the drivers seat and wrapped the strap over his shoulder and around his torso so his entire body was pulling.   The other one wrapped the strap around his hand and got into position so his legs would do most of the work.   Count of 3 and they lifted the chair up and over.   Cheers all around.   We thanked them very much but forgot to get their station number so we could take treats.  
I have often said as a joke that I would stick around as long as I could cause trouble.   Guess this means I will be around for a while but you better think twice before you go anywhere with me. 

what a zoo

 If I say my life is boring remind me of last week! For starters the cuff on my trache was letting air past it off and on for most of Sunday.   Perhaps I should back up and explain some.     There is a tube that goes a short way down my throat.   This is held in place by an inflated cuff that keeps the air going into my lungs rather than out my mouth.   A small amount leaking is more irritating than dangerous.   Attempts by Yuki to adjust the air were futile.   Of course it stopped leaking when we called the doctor.   After talking with him we all agreed it was probably the valve and could be handled in the morning.  

Monday morning I brought Cindy up to date so she could call.   First was a call to doctors office to give an update.   After the nurse read what the on call doctor had written and added current information I said I wanted to change it today.   Skip forward to conversation with doctor,  nurse,  scheduler etc.  and we were scheduled for 3:00.    They only had to call us 5 times.  

Well that was only the beginning.   As planned the men that came to trim the Laurel hedge started their power tools.   That irritating noise would last the entire morning so we closed all windows and doors. They needed to have the gate open to cart away the debris.   Because Quincy has a tendency to leave when there are loud noises we closed the dog door too.   Todd and the boys came over with their non-irritating noise and energy.    When the doctor called Todd sent them to the basement.   Of course they looked around and found something fun.   This was a good thing because it was a paper making kit that had been a possible present but later did not make the cut.   Perfect for today.   It used shredded paper and water and was fun if Sam would put his hands in.   The other two were happy to use the press but thought touching the mixture was gross.  

Okay the hedge is being trimmed and the boys were some what occupied.   One more phone call.  Again it was not a brief call.   Medicare had changed the supplier for my food and delivery was going to be today.   Since this was the first delivery that meant reviewing all the supplies and confirmation of information.   This agency required a signature so someone had to be here.   Not a big deal except we did not yet know when the trache change would be.   Todd and the boys headed out and I went to finish getting dressed.  

Doorbell rings and the house cleaners are here.   We often go out on the deck or for a walk to stay of the way..   Fortunately the hedge people were cleaning up and the noise had stopped so Cindy was able to give me lunch outside.   Then she tried to eat her lunch.   Phone rings.   These are the available times for trache change.   We select and she keeps the phone with her.   A few more bites and doorbell rings and the food is here.   Previously we had put it on the bench by the front door when delivered.   This man says he will not do that but only slide cases off dolly.   She has to figure out where to put it so it will not be in the way for us and the house cleaners.   Then she has to use my signature stamp in 4 places plus sign herself.   Now back to lunch.

A short time later it is time to head to the hospital for my trache change.    There things got interesting.   After a brief wait one of the doctors in the group with Dr Libby came in.   My first reaction was that he looked young followed by remembering how irritated I got when my mother said that..   Also the fact that my baby turned 40 on Thursday so he probably is young.   Anyway back to moment.   The doctor was followed by the RT and a nurse bringing the new trache. After reviewing the situation they asked if I usually had any anesthetic.   No,  because it takes longer and is more uncomfortable to try and find a vein..   The RT removed the air,  or at least thought she did,  from the cuff.   Doctor tried to pull it out several times unsuccessfully.   After hooking my air back on he asked if Dr Libby had trouble before.   I said yes and that he pulled hard and fast.   They both rechecked the external pillow that is supposed to indicate the inflation of the cuff and said okay.   He took a breath and pulled hard.   It came out out and we all saw the problem.   After putting the new one in our attention moved to the old one.   The cuff had not deflated.   Definitely a faulty valve.   In a way it was good because I had wondered what the inflated cuff looked like.   Cindy described it best as the size and shape of a marshmallow.   After checking to see if I was okay the doctor asked us to stay until the suction showed no blood.   Cindy said good because she was worried and hoped I would agree to stay.   I said yes because the hospital was quieter than the house.   Never thought I would say that! Another bonus was the air conditioning on a 90 degree day.   

Okay that was Monday.   Now Tuesday.   I usually get out of bed when the day person comes in at 8.   I know it is late.   Well,  I needed to get up earlier to get my Monday shower prior to Tuesday appointment.   Sherry had not had any opportunities to use the sling to get me out of bed.   She did fine with a few hints.   This allowed Cindy time to do my shower before the dynavox person came.    Who?   Dynavox is the name of my computer.   The goal today was to try out the eyegaze system before ordering one for me.   That attachment and necessary mounting is about $15000 so the communications specialist needed to make sure it worked for me before requesting insurance coverage.   We tried several different ways and distances to mount it.   Then different ways I could use it.   Looking at the letter or words that I wanted worked for me.   Then I tried an even better way.   This tracked my eye movements and then I could press a switch.   Since my left leg is still good I could click with it.   I do have to admit that it is fun to see how much my eyes jump around.   When asked if I wanted it or if I needed to think about it my reply was I want it yesterday.   Me?   Impatient?   Never! Hah.   Perhaps the reason my eyes got tired was because I had played with it.   I am already thinking about additional glasses for seeing about 8 inches from my face.  

Combined with the effort of trying different systems in the morning and yesterdays activities along with a late lunch I needed a nap.   Good thing we both had time to unwind before the rest of the afternoon began.   I get a monthly delivery of all the supplies for the ventilator.   There are some things that are charged daily,  some weekly and some as needed.   Cindy was not able to make some of the necessary changes because she did not have the equipment.   When the UPS truck drove up she was waiting by the door.   When she went through the box there was a couple of missing items.   The most important one was the item that is changed daily.   Back to the phone to try to get it corrected.   They would have someone deliver that.   Okay Cindy can at least change the equipment.   Soon Quincy tells us that the UPS truck is back.   What does he have but the item we are missing.   Just to be sure Cindy opens it.   Opps, it is now after 5 and the answering service picks up.   Then someone is at the door with the missing supplies.   As much as would like to say that never got the package we have to admit we did.   That evening Sherry and I talked about having her get me up every few weeks so she could be more comfortable with it.   Little did we know.  

Good thing I rested Tuesday afternoon because Wednesday became interesting.   I was not sure if I had heard Sherrys phone ring or if was a dream.     Apparently it rang several times.   My Wednesday caregiver,  Kelsey-Ann,  had lost her purse with keys, wallet and phone in it and could not get here until noon.   So Sherry had the opportunity to get me up again.   After feeding me I pushed her to eat something since she could not have brought anything with her.   Morning was good and I went to my nail appointment.   Shortly after we got home Kelsey-ann came and we heard the whole story.  

Kelsey-ann and a friend had been at one of the concerts in the park.    They then stopped at a neighborhood bar for a snack and drink on the patio.   When talking with them a woman dropped her glass and a piece bounced up and his foot.   When Kelsey-Ann started to wrap it she realized it was deep so off they went to the emergency room.   They were there until 4.    When helping him get in the car Kelsey-ann put her purse on top  of the car.    After taking  the wheelchair back she drove off.    When she realized what had happened she tried retracing her route.    Between darkness and lack of sleep she did not find it.    She did know she had to get some sleep so could not come to work until noon. 

When she came in at noon we heard the whole story, and both Sherry and I went into mother mode without even thinking.   Kelsey-ann is 21.   We laughed about it later.   After hearing what happened my push was getting her to eat and Sherry to call if Kelsey-Ann was too tired.   As she ate I heard more details and I could help by loaning some crutches.   We took them to her friend before taking Miles to the bookstore.  

This was a planned outing so Miles could have one on one time with me and he was looking for two specific books.   A coworker of Cindys has boys a few years older and gave our boys books they had outgrown.   All 3 boys were really enjoying the books.   In fact Sam and Walker often did not have any idea what was going on around them.   One series that Miles enjoyed was missing book 8 and 10 so we went to the local bookstore.   We are fortunate to have a fantastic childrens bookstore in our neighborhood.   Going in I asked Miles if he knew where to look and suggested he ask for what he wanted.   The woman checked the area and said they would have to order the books.   Miles was ready to leave then.   From experience at the library Todd had warned me that if what Miles wanted was not there he would not look at anything else.   I think there are others like him because the woman pulled out several books she thought he might like.   He gave a half-hearted look.    Then I asked what each one was about.   Now he had to actually look.   Finally I said it would make me happy if he picked one.   This started serious consideration and he finally picked one.   As we checked out I asked him about the book Walker and Cindy were interested in.   True to form he could tell her the title and that it was not exactly the end of a series but about the same characters.    After buying the book he started reading in the car and that was the last we heard from him.   At home he joined his brothers reading in the living room.   After some very active weeks they had all drifted to reading.  

The day ended with a pleasant dinner with everyone.   That also produced a fun story.   Conversation turned to books and what Miles had ordered.   Then we talked about the book Walker and Cindy wanted.   After Miles said it would be out August 8th Walker turned to Cindy and asked if they could order it.   What I said we already did he asked when.   Miles said when we were at the bookstore.   Walker said when did you go.   When Miles said today,  Walker replied you didn't go.  We all laughed and said yes. Looking confused he once again turned to his mom for confirmation.   Then he turned to Sam who also said he knew.   Poor Walker could not really believe he did not know Miles was gone.   Everyone had teased both Sam and Walker about not knowing if the house was on fire when they were reading.   Now Walker had to admit we were right.   Sam at least knew when Miles left.   Maybe did not know when Miles came back.

With the hectic start of the week laughter was a good ending.  

Cat story

This is a story I shared with my neighbor and decided to share with everyone.  

I wanted to share a story that I remembered when you mentioned ferrell cats.   Have to laugh.  

First I need to set the scene.   There is a baby monitor on my nightstand that is in front of a window that is always open.   My night caregivers are allowed to sleep (cost less and pays less ) and they have baby monitor and call button reciever on a nightstand right next to their head.   

It is night and everyone is sound asleep.   Then there is a cat fight right outside my window.   Picture yourself asleep and hearing a cat fight right next to your head.   Sherry jumped a foot.   Fortunately she can laugh about it.  

Reaching, Reaching Deep

Buying our first sailboat, Reaching, in 1995 opened a new chapter in our lives. Most Friday evenings we made the two hour drive from Bakersfield to Oxnard. We had a few favorite dinner stops if Dave was not eating in the car while I drove. Sunday afternoon on the way home was ice-cream time. We needed to stretch our legs and it was about half way. In addition to spending most weekends aboard we also changed our life focus.

As we continued to learn more about sailing we also learned more about each other. Each new experience built confidence. Soon we were talking about going cruising, heading south with no particular schedule or destinations. That was a real change for two planners.

Part of the planning involved evaluating the storage space and volume of various tanks. Both of us were concerned about the volume of fresh water we could carry. One option was to get a water maker. A what? A water maker turns salt water into fresh water through a reverse osmosis system. Of course all this required energy. Works great when the engine is running. That led to the next problem. How much fuel could we take? Solar panels would help with the power for radios and lights but could not run the water maker. Extra jerry cans on deck could also help with water and fuel. Securing them would have to be figured out. We had lots of discussion on all the situations.

That all led to the next debate and it was personal. Which lockers would be used for tools and spare parts and which for food and cooking needs. This is where Dave would say I was the only person that needed 6 kinds of vinegar. Anywhere there were people we could buy food. I would remind him that we did not have to carry another boat in spare parts. We had ongoing discussions, some more animated than others, and tried to think of all the possibilities.

During this time several types of classes added to our knowledge. The Coast Guard series of six classes even lowered the cost of boat insurance. A weekend weather class led to an entirely unplanned adventure.

Neighbors on the dock, Jerry and Briggeta had purchased a new boat. At that time it was possible to avoid paying sales tax by taking off shore delivery and keeping the boat out of the country for 90 days. A marina in Ensanda Mexico was nicknamed the 90 day marina. Jerry and Briggeta had followed the requirements and now it was time for the new JB Bear to come home. Dave had a weather class on the weekend in San Diego so he offered to go a few days early and take them to their boat.

After helping them shove off from Ensanda at daybreak he drove back to San Diego. It was mid-day and he had time to kill. So what should he do? Of course, go to the Island Packet boat dealer. Our boat was built by Island Packet and one of the new models, a 420, had been named boat of the year by a sailing magazine. Dave walks in and asked if they had a 420 he could see. He had read that all the first years production had been pre-sold but just wanted to look. As it happened a silent partner in the dealership had put up the money for pre-sale but would sell the boat if anyone was interested. With that in mind Dave went to look. That was all it took.

I don't know how he waited but he did. He knew I was working on a Cancer Society fund raising, Daffodil Days, so would not be home until evening. After going to the weather school welcome hour he called me. What did he say? Hi honey. I solved all our storage problems. That was followed by details. Water, fuel and holding tanks were about triple what Reaching had and the extra length and width provided lots more interior storage. My first reaction was we cannot afford it. The sailing magazine had printed the price so I knew that. The dealer had said what he would give us on Reaching so Dave wanted me to go to San Diego the next morning because someone else was interested. I said I could not go because I had already committed to daffodil days and he had a full day at the school. However I did promise to go during the next week.

After a restless night I got up about 4:30 and turned on both our laptops. When he had retired we had divided our finances so he now did the long term accounting and I handled the daily accounts. That made it necessary to look at both computers. Sitting in the early morning light with the glow of two computers going I came to the conclusion that we could afford it. My schedule and his did not match up so I had to wait to tell him. (No, I did not have a cell phone.)

All day as we took daffodils out of cold storage to fill the orders to be delivered my mind was racing. The people on the organizing committee knew about our plans so were interested in this new adventure. It was exciting to share but also a bit unreal. Basically it looked like we were buying a boat I had only seen in a magazine and Dave had seen once. I knew that Dave would not go back once he saw a better way. We had been to the factory and knew the designer always used the same keel design. For that matter he always designed some of the same features in the interior. So it was not really a blind choice. Sure nice that I had something to keep me busy all day. Once home now it was my turn to be impatient.

Dave was excited about what he had learned in the class and the potential of a new boat. We talked that evening about everything. Then when he got home Sunday afternoon we really played with numbers. So in early spring of 1999 we wavered between buying the boat and heading south in the fall or giving ourselves a way to delay.

Once again life has a way of getting your attention. Dave received a phone call that one of the men he had worked with had died after only being retired a few months. This was the push we needed to buy the new boat and really commit to going cruising sooner rather than later.

After the Wednesday service we made the 5 hour drive to San Diego. The dealer had a policy when several people are looking at a boat that the first check gets it. To be fair he had called the other people to tell them someone else was interested. 

So Thursday with check in hand and less than a week of thinking we signed papers to sell Reaching and to buy a new boat. This opened lots of new decisions. But they were the kind Dave loved. Navigation systems, communication radios refrigeration and more. While he made all the choices I worked on finishing my obligations so I could be ready to go.

Choosing a boat name is almost like naming a child. We could keep the name Reaching and let the buyer choose a new name. Reaching had a special meaning. It is the most comfortable point of sail and we were reaching in skills, confidence and finances. Somehow that name belonged to that boat. As we pondered different names there was one added wrinkle. On maritime radio the name of the boat is repeated 3 times. We would try various names and often start laughing as it became a tongue twister. Walking up the dock with Jerry and Briggeta one day we said we were close to a name. Briggeta said oh, what is it, Reaching Deep? When she said that we both stopped and looked at each other. That was it.

Proud Mom

Proud Mom

Today I had the opportunity to see Kari the architect.   It was the ribbon cutting for a new transit center in Kaiser.   For the non Oregon people that is just north of Salem.   The center was funded with a variety of sources including federal money so a senator and representative were part of the speech makers.   Everyone was happy that the project had come in on time and under budget.   To get the federal money they had competed with other agencies so it was going to be looked at by others.  

It is really a forward looking project.   (No, I am not biased.) There is room for eight separated bus loading areas although currently only 4 are in use.   Two others will be added soon.   At each area there is a covered bench topped with solar panels.   The route for that bus is clearly displayed along with an etched glass graphic showing the system. 
These areas are grouped around a softly curved planting area that surrounds a rock and planted swale.   This allows the plants to do some initial cleaning of the water and helps the ground absorb the water.   Many people committed that it felt like a park.  

At one end is a striking building.   First it blends into the surrounding area with the use of natural materials.   Part of the roof is covered with solar panels while the remaining part has low ground cover type plants.   These are fascinating.   The plants are preplanted in rectangular blocks that snap together.   Not only are the plants established but they look good from the beginning.   Why plants on the roof?   They provide insulation and durability along with slowing the rate of run off.  

Inside the building is a gathering area with restrooms in addition to a break area for the drivers.   The break room has the usual table,  chairs,  microwave and refrigerator along with large windows.   There is also a quiet room,  more restrooms and a small office.. Being in Oregon there is also an area to hang wet jackets.   Talking with a staff person it was wonderful to hear all the positive comments from the first week of operations.   I think one of the best comments came from the drivers.   " It is so peaceful here "

Even though we sweated this proud mom loved every minute.   Or as Dave would say that's my baby.  

Postcard Fairy

About twice a month we continue to enjoy fun postcards that arrive anonymously.   Eagerly we look at the quote on the back and what is the picture.   Always postmarked in Portland they depict mainly sites in this area.   A few have been from other areas of Oregon.   I know the person reads my because the most recent had something besides the quote.   It was a request for more sailing stories.  

A wise friend started saving all the stories we had emailed from the boat so I will be reviewing some of those to see what the rest of the story might be.  

The postcard stack is getting big and I am trying to think of a way to have them out so visitors can enjoy both the picture and the quote.   Thank you postcard fairy.  

A Perfect Phrase

Everytime my caregivers need to transfer me to or from chair, toilet or bed they need 4 hands.   First challenge is preventing my head from flopping around.   Next problem is my hands.   Not only do they flop down but when moved they tend to go right back where they were.   Other times they insist on getting caught in the sling or straps.   When doing all that caregivers also are pushing the buttons on the control.   Oh they also have to guide the sling.   My head and hands refusing to cooperate often reminds me of a phrase and situation a few years ago.  

A friend came to the house to take me somewhere.   After putting on the cape that covered me and the batteries I asked for gloves.   My left hand wore my sailing gloves because they are fingerless so I could push buttons.   He helped me get it on than looked at the mitten for my right hand and said I don't think I know how to do this...   I replied think about an uncooperative two year old.   Being a good grandfather Roger said I know how to do that.   

The phrase?   That is it.   You are

Technology is wonderful?!?  

Yes I know I would not be alive and writing this without technology but there are times I just want to scream or throw something.   Good that I can not do either.  

So Dynavox finally sends my communication device aka computer back after installing a new hard drive.   Fantastic! I am excited to see the new system that lets me compose everything on the main screen.   This is so much better because there are commonly used words that only take one keystroke.   In addition the word anticipation feature will often display the word I want after a few keystrokes.   That really helps my leg.  
Just to be on the safe side I decide to wait until the communication specialist comes out.   Excitedly we put on the zip drive that has all my backed up information.   Bad idea.   Yes it had the data but it also had the operating system.   Once more called Dynavox.   Tech can go right in and restore program but will take about 45 minutes.   That is okay and it is fun to watch the cursor move and screen change.   While that is happening we work on selecting the pieces of information I want to move and sending to email.  However now that computer does not want to send or receive email in dynavox.   It will work with comcast so will do that for now.  

To make a long story short, I have my dynavox back and have been successful in a few areas.   Kari and Garrett were here for a short visit and he was able to get most of the tv controls to work.   Why I did not think about all the other difficulties is beyond me.   I am sure there will be other times.   

Untitled

With just one more week in the class Judith created a new prompt. We had shared our big documents and some pictures she had asked us to bring. During our discussion we all realised we needed time and place. This led to our assignment. In fact we could see the wheels turning as she said it. We were to pick one of our pictures and create a scene including date. We could make up a date if we did not know it but the scene was to be one day. It was interesting as I worked on mine how it did help to have a context. The exercise also made a big difference in how I edited my major story. Below is my scene. I choose not to include the picture so your mind could draw it. At least I hope your mind can.
 
  It was a warm spring day in May when we left Puerto Villarta on a 4 day trip heading north. Our plan was to spend some time in the Sea of Cortez before leaving Reaching Deep in La Paz for the 2005 hurricane season. May 5 found us in the rhythm of over night sailing. Dinner time was before dark. With just enough wind to sail we had a peaceful dinner in the cockpit while Auto pilot steered our coarse.

 Following our usual routine Dave participated in the evening radio group, called a net, on the single sideband radio while I stayed at the wheel. Sometimes Auto did not like it when we broadcast so I gave him a break and hand steered. The net always started with vessels under way. Each vessel gave their position and current weather information. One frequency was used at night at a set time and another in the morning. Real time weather was very useful along with the prediction. Also it was always fun to see if there was anyone else nearby.

 Then the night routine started. One of us would put on light weight all weather gear, inflatable life jacket, sailing gloves, hat and harness while the other prepared for bed. This started our watch routine of 4 hours on and 4 hours off.

 Dave knew that I would often stretch my watch so I could see the sunrise. It is magnificent during a new moon and tonight with a sliver of moon and no clouds should be a good one. I took the first watch starting about7:30 thinking it should work out perfectly. About midnight we switched places. It took a few minutes to take off the gear but well worth it because of the dampness settling in as the temperature dropped.

 Back on watch about 4 I knew it would be a magnificate sunrise. First the stars in the east start to fade. Beind the fading stars the sky starts to change from black to navy blue. Gradually the deep blue gets lighter until it is almost white. Then a glow appears at the horizon. As the glow increases it becomes orange and I know the sun will soon pop up above the horizon. A blink and there it is. Now a line of light glows across the water.

 Joyfully I start the morning routine as Dave wakes up. As the sun starts to warm the air and dry the dew as we enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Auto does not object to the morning frequency so we join the morning net while clearing up from breakfast. Feeling content with the start of May 6th, I settle in for my morning nap.

More writing class

Another class Judith shared a book called I remember by Joe Brainard. The idea here was to provide just enough information to allow the reader to be drawn in and form a picture in their mind. To little and the reader cannot get an understanding of what is being said. To much and the reader does not get drawn in. We took about 10 minutes to write a list and then shared them. Apparently I did not keep my list but it gave good insight as we shared and decided about pictures in our head.

 A fun prompt was: You never knew but.

 Kari the first time Nana came to see you was an interesting day. She was still as fascinated with breast feeding as she had been with Todd. Everyone had been holding you and after I changed your diaper Nana wanted you again. She had to shuffle you around and decide how she held you. It was all to much. You spit up your entire meal all over her. I was so embarrassed because I had tried to limit all the handeling. Part of me was glad because I had said you did not like a lot of handeling.
 

Writing Class

Friend Barbara asked if I was going to share any of my writings from the class. Duh, I had never even thought about it. In the class the hope was that we would end with a finished project. To help us we did short paragraphs with a theme and then discussed. One theme was when I was 15 I ........ 

What comes to mind about that time is a first car accident when I must have been 18. I was taking a night class at the community college. On the way there I was following a delivery truck. At one point they had to stop quickly because a car ahead of them was making a left turn. I did not stop quickly enough and hit their big steel bumper. The big thing I remember is calling my father at break and asking him to come get me. True to his style he said no and that I needed to drive myself home. That must be part of the reason I am so stubborn today.
 Remember this was just an exercise

Always something new

Part 1 - Still learning from Dave and having fun. 

Recently the boys school, Vernon, held the 3rd Annual fund-raiser auction It is so exciting to see how much it has grown in such a short time. When Walker started pre-K at Vernon 7 years ago (yes, 7) the school was struggling to restart a PTA. Now we were attending a fund-raising dinner of over 200 people. The first two dinners had focused on establishing an arts and music program at the school. This year technology was added to the mix. Dave was well known after the previous auctions for getting the bidding started. With technology added he would have been even more excited.
 
With this in mind Todd and I hatched a scheme. First he asked family members to help start a fund in Dave's name. One part of the evening included an opportunity to hold up a bid card for a straight donation. This started with the family support. Then Todd told why we were doing the challenge. Several people had said something to both Todd and Cindy about missing Dave at this years auction so we knew a challenge would be well received. The challenge was if 12 people donated at a given level I would donate a certain amount for each boy. (Dave had done a similar challenge for the boys jogathon) This generated a fabulous response. 25 people donated at that level!
 At the silent auction earlier in the evening I had also followed Dave's example of being the first to sign on several sheets. Caregiver Melissa and friends Liz and Keith had fun staking out some things I really wanted to make sure my bid was the highest. Actually Keith was more subdued and became a knight in shining armor. But that is another story. I have to admit Dave's way of pushing up bids was a lot of fun.
 
This continued at the live auction. Sam's class had made a picture of the Portland skyline. Each student was given a 1 inch square from a picture and asked to draw it in a 4 inch square. The squares were then assembled to made the picture. Several parents really wanted it so the bidding was brisk. At the end I told Melissa to keep my bid card up. One of the women realized what was going on so kept doing a higher bid. Her husband did not realize what she was doing. He kept saying what are you doing. You know we agreed to only go to a certain bid. Dave would have loved that entire bid process and figured out a way to share. I did learn and have a plan. One of the fathers at school is a professional photographer. I want him to make a copy of the picture and so I can give it to each family. That would have been the kind of thing Dave would love.

Part 2 - The difference between ordeal and adventure is attitude. 

Now about my knight. The auction was held at the Melody Ballroom, a place where many of the school parents had fond memories of high school proms. When the 4 of us went in the first question was where is the elevator? " There is not one, we have a stair climbing chair." He then proceeded to bring down a platform that stayed horizontal as it came down the stairs towards me. With some trepidation I rolled on. Or attempted to. This is when Kieth steps in. There is a pin on the underneath of my chair that slips into a bracket in the car similar to a trailer hitch. This pin prevented my chair from going up the ramp on the stair climber. Kieth got down on his hands and knees and figured how to manually hold the ramps so I could roll all the way in. Did I mention that someone asked how much weight the climber could carry? A casual answer was 500 pounds. I decided not to say anything knowing that my chair and me weigh over that. 

Now I am strapped in and ready to go downstairs for the silent auction. Sitting at the top looking down I remind myself " the difference between ordeal and adventure is attitude. " Off we go. Halfway there Melissa realizes that my computer is going to hit the ceiling. There I am halfway down with a man holding the entire weight. Melissa gets the computer off and we finish the stair. Whew, that was interesting. 

After the silent auction it was time to go up the stairs we had come down and another set. Once again Kieth helped me back into place This time a larger man helped and they were able to get me up without any excitement.
 After all the fun it was time to go down the very wide marble stairs. I was nervous sitting at the top waiting for the second man to help and looking at the people lined up to pick up their purchases. I am sure they were nervous too. Once again. The difference between ordeal and adventure is attitude. This time I had to say it more than once. No reason to worry, they got me down with no problem. Between the energy used at the auction and the nerves going down the stairs I was tired. Melissa must have been exhausted because she started workat 8am and did not leave until eleven.
 It was a very good evening and I think Dave would have agreed.

All right all ready

I know I have not posted in a while. I do appreciate the fact that several have commented on that. It lets me know that people are reading it. I have several excuses but since many of you that read this are former teachers I will not bother. 

I have been enjoying a writing class sponsored by the ALS association. People have talked about wanting to leave stories of their life. One of the community centers has someone who regularly teaches a life stories class. This is an opportunity to see if it something that would be valuable to offer regularly. 

Using various phrases Judith has had us write short pieces in class and others for homework. We then share what we have written and make comments.. Last Friday we talked about the use of dialog to convey feelings. Another time was about leaving room for the reader to bring their own experience to mind. I don't know if you will notice any difference in my writing but I am enjoying the class.

What Talent

Caregiver Cindy and I need to get jobs in quality control for a computer company. Today we locked up the checkstand computer at the grocery store. Following that we went to get gas and it took the attendent 4 tries to get the pump to accept my credit card.

Me and my big mouth

The last post was Saturday evening when I said things were improving. Wrong. At least now I can laugh.

Now that we are using the sling all the time everything takes longer. So it is 11:00 and I am finally in bed. Kelseyann turns on the bedside vent and the heater that supplies moisture to the air I breathe starts beeping. She checked and rechecked the hose and heat sensors. It was all good. Fortunately there is a 24 hour on call person she can call. Once again Kelseyann reviews every connection with the phone on speaker. Solution? Sleep with the three note chirp of the heater unit or use the HME (I don't remember what the letters stand for.) or nose that I use in the daytime. Did you know that your nose helps keep the air you breathe moist? The HME basically does the same so is often called the nose. That was a quick and easy solution. This was followed by the on-call person making an appointment at my convenience to come to the house and replace what ever was needed. The agency sends someone out monthly to do vent checks so all the techs know the house and Quincy.

Of course I bragged about not having to do anything with my chair. Big mistake. My vent hangs on the back of the chair. Holding it on is a carabiner welded to a back plate. Not the kind of thing found at Home Deport. One of these broke so United seating gets another call on Monday. I think I should just plan on Mondays being repair day.

Let's see, I broke the BCI computer on Friday, the heat unit on Saturday and the chair vent holder on Sunday. Any bets on what happens on Monday?

Looking better

This week is better. The van ramp now works without the hair-raising squeak. I did not have anything go wrong on my chair. The stoma has just a tiny amount of green goop so the witches brew is working. ( Thanks to several of you I now know that line is from Macbeth.) The loaner computer is working adequately. Dynavox will be quick to remind that it is communication device not a computer. Whatever it is, I can make it talk and send and receive email. The second loaner has a nice on screen keyboard but I don't know how to move it around on the screen. That has a solution, email to Kari and let her post it. In general life is better, flowers are beautiful and trees are leafing out.

Opps, I spoke to soon. I had been saying that I could break any computer as a joke. It came true. The first and last session of the meditation research sessions included BCI. Friday was the last session and part way through the computer decided it did not want to run the next section. No matter what she it did not work. I didn't tell them what I had been saying. Monday we will try again.

Always something or pity party 2

Computer problems only got bigger. :-(  After spending another hour plus on the phone with teck support trying to get the loaner computer to work with me we were partly successful.  We had to give up on mine because the power cord or the port for it was damaged.  Perhaps that was because I forgot I was plugged in one to many times and tried to make the 20 foot extension cord 25 feet long.  Dave had bought a spare battery and external charger for that very reason.   

Pity Party

I feeling overwhelmed. The last several weeks have been rough. Most of the problems are small, but when put together they grow.  
I think the biggest one happened last week.   We went out to the van and the ramp would not open. Todd happened to be here and he checked the fuse box.   What we did not know was the fuse for the ramp is in a different place.   After calling the van conversion place and being directed to the override buttons to operate the ramp I did remember Dave showing it to me.   Missed him.   After endearing a horribly rough ride to several appointments we were able to get it in the next afternoon.  They only had a hour time slot so basically did troubleshooting.   Several parts had to be ordered but the controls now worked almost as well as they had.   Even better we now know where the fuse is.   Apparently the van was stuck in the kneeling position giving the horrible ride.   At least it was not the shocks.   Parts are ordered so hopefully all will in be good there.  
One of the places we had to go when the van was bad was the wheelchair repair place.   Somehow I was on a weekly visit with them for:the last 3 weeks.  : - )  Fortunately nothing big needed do and they are really nice people.   Might have to take cookies to them.
Another adventure going on at the same time involved the hole in my throat called the stoma.   The tube going into to had been changed a few weeks,  but it was still goopy.   Taking an antibiotic had not helped.   Since I did not have any other symptoms of infection the doctor decided that more antibiotics would not be helpful.   Instead he suggested that we make a bleach solution called Dakins.   As we were following the instructions on the web site he gave us we had to laugh.   First we had to boil 4 cups of water in a covered pan.   As it bubbled away a memory from high school jumped into my head.   Toil and trouble,  witches brew and witches bubble.   I can not remember the rest but it was something from Shakespeare.  The witches brew and another trache change seems to be working.   So maybe that problem is solved.  
 The next problem is with my computer and that is still being worked on.   The good news is that having a dynavox gives me direct tech support.   When given the serial number they can go directly into my computer.   It is really strange to see the cursor move and screen change without doing anything.   The bad news is that she spent more than an hour and could not fix it.   She is coming back on to keep working later today.  
That is all for now.   I will share tales of lift and sling training when the computer is happier.  

What is wrong with this picture

Growing up both kids had allergy problems with the typical ear infections.  I had not thought about that in years.  Then last week we had to take Quincy to the vet with ear problems.  She looked in one ear then turned to the other.  That one hurt.  Both ears were red and swollen. Knowing he had ear problems before she said it was probably seasonal allergies. Okay I knew about that, so what do?  He needed a pill every 12 hours and ear drops every 12 hours.  Not a problem, my caregivers change shifts every 12 hours so that is a good time to do it.  However that meant they would take care of first thing.  He thought that was great and started meeting them at the door expecting his treat. His pills were wrapped in cheese to make sure he ate them. After that was a little cuddle time to put the ear drops in followed up by a dog biscuit. Then they would check with me.  Wait a minute.  I think they are supposed to be my caregivers.  In the process of making sure he had his meds he now expected treats the minute anybody came in the door.  Just one more challenge.

Scattered Showers

Does scattered showes explain why it can rain in the back yard but not the front?  Or why hail is pounding down and accumulated when it is sunny.

Hairy Tongue Syndrome?!

What? I have had hairy legs, but hairy tongue?  I went for my regular dental appointment and everything was fine.  My caregivers are always concerned about the coating on tongue. The hygienist said it is called hairy tongue because the padilla (cannot remember the word for sure but it is the things on your tongue that help move food around)  grow longer than usual.  Can even use a spoon face down to scrape my tongue and maybe get it to go away.  At least there is reason and a name for my tongue to look the way it does.

Busy Week - Part 3

Rounding out the OHSU week on Friday was the session to establish the base line for the mindful meditation study.  First I repeated the exercise from Tuesday with the letter repetition.  Following that was the BCI calibrating and spelling selected words. The session lasted 3 hours and I was very tired after that.  Friday afternoon of a busy week was not the best time to do so much. At least I should be able to show a big improvement with my ending score. In addition I was watching the clock because we had to pick up Quincy at the groomers.  As several people mentioned we both got our hair cut the same day. Todd tried to tell the boys we went to the same place. They just ignored him.  From now on the Friday sessions will be 90 minutes but will not start until three.  Being a morning person it will be interesting to see if I can develop the skills to focus on the task in front of me at a less opportune time.

Busy Week - Part 2

Back to OHSU week.  Wednesday I was asked to be interviewed and do a demonstration of the BCI research program.  Of course I said yes.  Todd was here for what he thought would be a quick fax and he would be on his way.  First the photographer from the weekly newspaper showed up followed by the reporter.  After trying the BCI program himself the reporter had tons of questions. They were followed by photographer, reporter and public relations coordinator from OHSU and of course Betts who set up everything.  Todd was conscripted to sign all the releases from the University while the two photographers discussed how they would work around each other.  Meanwhile the reporter was quizzing Betts and me about the program.  He is also telling everyone they should try it.  Finally she started to set it up while photos documented the entire process and she answered questions.  Both the newspaper and the University asked for details while the reporter bounced around with enthusiasm about the program.  Then I started with the letters flashing across the screen to do the calibration process. After 3 sets of  50 letters I went on to select letters for words that were part of a sentence.  About that time the newspaper people had to leave followed by most of the University people.  Betts gave me the opportunity to do some free spelling which I tried.  About that time I realised that I was tired.  The results spoke loud and clear.

I Have To Laugh

Thursday afternoon we welcomed the sun and puffy white clouds.  Friday and Saturday we had beautiful bright blue sky.  The color blue that this Southern California girl still marvels at.  Okay what makes me laugh?  With the blue sky came rising temperatures.  We might get up to 60.  The years on the boat I would have said that was too cold.  I would often say if you had to wear more than shorts and a tee-shirt it too cold.  Now I am thrilled with 60 and sun.

Busy Week Part 1

The past week has been OHSU (Oregon Health Science University) week.  Tuesday I started a new study that is a follow up to the BCI.  Of course first all the consent forms had to be signed. I was lucky, Elana the research person had emailed the forms for all 3 sections of the study so I just gave her my signature stamp.  Then on to the first section of the study.  A series of 20 letters went across the computer screen.  After each series I was to say yes if there had been any letters repeated next to each other and no if there were not.  This is called one back. Following that was a section were I was looking for matching letters with one letter between called two back.  The third section I needed to identity three back, or same letters with 2 others between.  

Makes me think

Lately I have been wondering why I am still here and Dave is gone.  I try not to go to the *what if place,* but sometimes it is hard.               Two of my caregivers are going to school and are struggling with math.  Not only could he have helped them, he would have enjoyed it.  Kari relates a story about Dave helping her with math and saying isn't this fun.  Helping former neighbour Nick was the same, he was excited about the approach being used. I know my caregivers don't think it is fun. Dave might have helped them understand it.               Dave also enjoyed kids as they changed into people with own ideas and logic.  Walker is beginning to be at the stage where his parents embarrass him.  That is an age that Pop-Pop would have enjoyed and laughed about.  Grandparents can do the same thing parents do and it is okay.           With all my questions why and how can this be right the sermon today was timely.  Things that look terrible can be okay in the big picture. When things work out might not be when we want or expect. The story about a Chinese man was especially good.  It related a series of events where what looked like good luck became bad and bad luck turned to good.