I have been having very crazy dreams since I started on my newest medication. The problem is that I don't remember them well enough come morning to write them down. Last night was a particularly crazy dream and I tried so hard to remember it so I could write it down. I do remember the basic story, so here it is:
I was with a friend in some room somewhere. We had rigged up a small circuit board with paper clips attached to a decent size power supply. We would take turns hooking each other up to this circuit board. We would shock each other (like a serious shock that would stop your heart). Once we had shocked the other one, we would hook them up to another circuit board (also made with paper clips) and shock them again to bring them back to life. We had been doing this for quite some time (I’m not sure why, but apparently it was fun to do). But, then something went terribly wrong. At this point there were three of us and we shocked one of the friends and after we did, something went wrong with the equipment. We had him (the friend we shocked) hooked up to a computer so I looked at the computer to see if he was still there. I could see him floating around inside the computer, but we couldn’t get him back. The circuits wouldn’t work. We kept trying and trying and trying. Our poor friend was trapped in an alternate universe. He wasn’t dead, he was just lost. We were freaking out. We somehow traveled in time to see ourselves create a similar machine that performed similarly to what we had been playing with. We thought if we could spy on ourselves that we might be able to figure out how to build that machine and bring our friend back. It was difficult trying not to let ourselves in another time see ourselves from the current time. This went on for a while (and I know there was a lot more to the dream in this area, but I cannot remember specifically enough to write it down). We finally ended up in some sort of research facility trying to get help from professionals. We had the computer, showing our friend in the alternate universe and we now had a baby with us too. The baby apparently was also in an alternate universe because what we had of the baby was plasticized. We would swing it around and it would stretch out and then come back to it’s original shape. I ended up waking up right in this part of the dream so our problem never was solved. Bummer!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The Newest Addition
Introducing the newest addition to my basement.... It's a pool table and an air hockey table (the table flips around). Huges thanks to Craig and Derrick that helped put it together (ok, they put it together....I tried to help). Craig and I got in a couple of games. I think it's time for a party!
Small Miracles
So, on the sleep front.... I went to see the doctor about a month ago as a follow up to the psychologist I saw. He was a bit concerned when I told him I constantly thought about taking whole bottles of pills at once in order to try and sleep. (As a side note, I'm truly grateful for the small fragment of sanity that always stayed with me....otherwise I would have followed through with taking one of those bottles.) Anyway, the doctor said that we really needed to make me sleep (NO DUH!) and so he put me on an anti-psychotic med (Zyprexa) that would hopefully calm my brain enough to make me sleep. Funny enough, my dreams have been more vivid than ever (I'm sorry, I have forgotten to write them down -- I will try to remember). I still feel like I don't sleep well and I still have a hard time getting up in the morning, BUT I do feel better during the day. I feel somewhat rested and able to handle my day. I do feel the slow down in my brain from the meds, but overall I'm feeling a bit better. I'm hoping to find a different, permanent solution (rather than drugs), but I'm truly grateful for what I have so far. I'll take it! I want to thank all those who have sent their prayers my way. I'm seeing small miracles along the way and I appreciate it!
My Kids
I thought I would share a few pictures of my boys. First off, this is Bully with his girlfriend Delilah. They get to play all the time and they just wrestle, wrestle, wrestle. I tried to get a good picture of them wrestling and this is what I ended up with:
When they wrestle in the kitchen, this is what I end up with:
Yes, those are my curtains on their way out of the doggy door. If have read my posts from a while back, you will know this is the second set so far. The first set were hanging from a much more flimsy curtain rod so when the dogs wrestled the curtains out the doggy door, they bent the rod quite a bit and ruined it. I splurged for a much more sturdy rod this time. It's holding out well so far. I didn't splurge on the curtains though, so we'll see how long they last (I didn't want to spend a lot of money if they were just going to get ruined!).
When they wrestle in the kitchen, this is what I end up with:
Yes, those are my curtains on their way out of the doggy door. If have read my posts from a while back, you will know this is the second set so far. The first set were hanging from a much more flimsy curtain rod so when the dogs wrestled the curtains out the doggy door, they bent the rod quite a bit and ruined it. I splurged for a much more sturdy rod this time. It's holding out well so far. I didn't splurge on the curtains though, so we'll see how long they last (I didn't want to spend a lot of money if they were just going to get ruined!).Next, this is my sweetheart Rocky. Heis getting quite old. He is mostly blind and deaf, but still loves to play ball. We just have to play in the hall with all of the doors closed so there is limited space for the ball to be in. Basically, I throw it and he runs and looks for it. It can take a little while. :)
Finally, this is Bully with his favorite -- stuffed toys that squeek! The first thing to go are the ears and other appendages. He always chews them off. We've had a lot of fun with this one!
Finally, this is Bully with his favorite -- stuffed toys that squeek! The first thing to go are the ears and other appendages. He always chews them off. We've had a lot of fun with this one!
Let it Snow!
So, we have had quite a bit of snow here the last week. I am truly blessed with fabulous neighbors who have shoveled or snow blowed my driveway and walks. Unfortunately, I have had to shovel my kitchen. Yes, my kitchen. :) This is one of the joys of having a doggy door. Overall I love having a doggy door because I don't have to worry about letting my boys out. They can come and go as they please. But snow finds it's way in....
I keep a towel by the door in hopes of soaking up the melted snow and the wet paws of the dogs coming in. I think it's mostly for my own benefit......the many puddles around the kitchen make me think it isn't working that well. Here is Bully after a romp in the snow:
Isn't he cute?! I laugh when he comes in all covered with snow. Here's my favorite picture (can't you see the grin on his face?):
Poor Rocky is having a hard time with the snow. I have had to shovel the stairs leading up to the deck because poor Rocky can't make it up the stairs. I've had to go downstairs and let him in that way quite a few times. Poor guy! I don't have any snow pictures of Rocky (at not from this year).
I keep a towel by the door in hopes of soaking up the melted snow and the wet paws of the dogs coming in. I think it's mostly for my own benefit......the many puddles around the kitchen make me think it isn't working that well. Here is Bully after a romp in the snow:
Isn't he cute?! I laugh when he comes in all covered with snow. Here's my favorite picture (can't you see the grin on his face?):
Poor Rocky is having a hard time with the snow. I have had to shovel the stairs leading up to the deck because poor Rocky can't make it up the stairs. I've had to go downstairs and let him in that way quite a few times. Poor guy! I don't have any snow pictures of Rocky (at not from this year).Bummer, Bully just came in with another cute face full of snow. I need another picture! Hey, I know I'm pathetic, but these are my kids after all.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Tagged.....
My cousin Jae tagged me in her blog. Here it goes....
The rules:
1. Post the rules
2. Answer the six "8" items
3. Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving them a comment
8 Favorite TV Shows:
1. Life
2. Chuck
3. Smallville
4. Monk
5. Psych
6. The Mentalist
7. House
8. Eureka
8 Things I did yesterday
1. Went to lunch to celebrate the birthdays of a few friends.
2. Watched the end of the BYU/UofU game.
3. Did a bunch of laundry.
4. Did a little dusting (not nearly enough).
5. Started cleaning up my new laundry room.
6. Played on the computer
7. Played ball with my dogs.
8. Went to bed.
8 things I am looking forward to
1. The end of the semester!
2. Thanksgiving with good friends.
3. Enjoying my basement during the holidays (bring on the movies!).
4. Another trip to the beautiful Caribbean (I don't know when this one is going to happen).
5. My nap today (I hope).
6. Meeting the man of my dreams.
7. A completely clean house.
8. Ummmmm, I've run out of ideas.....
8 favorite restaurants
1. Macaroni Grill
2. Chili's
3. Red Robin
4. Red Butte Cafe
5. Texas Roadhouse
6. Mandarin
7. Iggy's
8. Pei Wei
8 Things on my wish list
1. A clean house
2. A cruise to somewhere beautiful.
3. A nice long trip to the white sands of the Caribbean.
4. A game table for my basement.
5. A new car.
6. A restful night's sleep.
7. My knight in shining armor.
8. A world without dust!
People I tag:
Anyone who would like to play along!
The rules:
1. Post the rules
2. Answer the six "8" items
3. Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving them a comment
8 Favorite TV Shows:
1. Life
2. Chuck
3. Smallville
4. Monk
5. Psych
6. The Mentalist
7. House
8. Eureka
8 Things I did yesterday
1. Went to lunch to celebrate the birthdays of a few friends.
2. Watched the end of the BYU/UofU game.
3. Did a bunch of laundry.
4. Did a little dusting (not nearly enough).
5. Started cleaning up my new laundry room.
6. Played on the computer
7. Played ball with my dogs.
8. Went to bed.
8 things I am looking forward to
1. The end of the semester!
2. Thanksgiving with good friends.
3. Enjoying my basement during the holidays (bring on the movies!).
4. Another trip to the beautiful Caribbean (I don't know when this one is going to happen).
5. My nap today (I hope).
6. Meeting the man of my dreams.
7. A completely clean house.
8. Ummmmm, I've run out of ideas.....
8 favorite restaurants
1. Macaroni Grill
2. Chili's
3. Red Robin
4. Red Butte Cafe
5. Texas Roadhouse
6. Mandarin
7. Iggy's
8. Pei Wei
8 Things on my wish list
1. A clean house
2. A cruise to somewhere beautiful.
3. A nice long trip to the white sands of the Caribbean.
4. A game table for my basement.
5. A new car.
6. A restful night's sleep.
7. My knight in shining armor.
8. A world without dust!
People I tag:
Anyone who would like to play along!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Sleepiness -- The Saga Continues
So, in my continued quest for restful sleep, I went to a psychologist. Why? Why not!?! So, we had a nice chat. I asked her about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (something my family doc suggested). When I asked her about it, she told me I wasn't "Cognitive" enough to try it at the moment. I'm too tired to think straight! Of course I already knew that. She wanted me to touch base with my family doc so I visited him last week. He gave me a new med to try. It is not specifically for sleep, but he hopes it will make me sleep. It is an anti-psychotic medication, given primarily to people with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. The hope is that it will slow my mind down at night so I can stop having such crazy dreams all night and finally get some rest. Of course we really don't know the reason why I always feel exhausted, so we'll see. So far, my dreams have been more vivid than ever. In fact, while I'm asleep I have to direct my dreams a certain way in order to "sleep" -- or at least to make me think I'm sleeping. It has been very strange. I have noticed that it also slows my brain during the day. That isn't the best side effect. Teaching physics with an even slower than normal brain is a challenge!
I decided I need to try these meds for a while longer to see if it may work. I can only hope for some rest! I'm crashing too fast!
I decided I need to try these meds for a while longer to see if it may work. I can only hope for some rest! I'm crashing too fast!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Story Time
My sweet neighbors stopped by to say "hi" tonight. We often sit and visit outside, when the weather is nice, but it's turning kind of cold lately. It was fun to have them visit.
Kate decided she wanted to read a book to Bullwinkle. It was very cute. He laid down as if he were paying very close attention. She would pull the pages out from under his paw and turn them. I couldn't resist the pictures!
Kate decided she wanted to read a book to Bullwinkle. It was very cute. He laid down as if he were paying very close attention. She would pull the pages out from under his paw and turn them. I couldn't resist the pictures!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Nice Compliment
Today, one of my students brought her husband to class. Apparently she has been telling him how much she is enjoying her physics class and he didn't believe that there was a good physics class out there. She kept trying to convince him that my class was a good one so I guess she finally brought him along to convince him. What a nice compliment! They came and talked to me after class and he said he really enjoyed it. Thanks! I appreciate the positive feedback. It's always nice to know I'm doing something well. And it was even on a day when I wasn't fully coherent!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Dr. Bean
I had my last visit with my orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Bean, yesterday. He is great! He was so funny because he went through the normal questions to see how I'm doing, etc. and then he said he was a little sad. He told me I didn't have to come back unless I was having problems with something. He told me he was going to miss having me come visit. He told me he always enjoyed it when I came in. It turns out that he studied physics as an undergrad so he was very excited to find out I was a physics professor. I must admit I always enjoyed visiting with him as well. He didn't necessarily talk about physics all the time with me, but that connection seemed to make all the difference. The last time I went in (in September), when he saw me he said, Good, I get to actually talk to someone! He spent a little while chatting with me yesterday. He told me "you know where to find me!" telling me to come back and visit again. Will that require a copay? :)
He is a great doctor! He did my left shoulder surgery 6 years ago so I was definitely planning on going back to him, though he is all the way back in Layton. Well worth it! Granted, I hope I don't need more surgery, but I wouldn't mind visiting with him once in a while.
Another funny experience that I want to remember, so I will write it here: When I went to have my shoulder surgery, my sweet neighbor drove me up to Layton and I had arranged for my dad to come pick me up. I didn't think my dad should have to drive all the way down from Harrisville just to drive back to North Layton and sit for who knows how many hours. Anyway, this left me by myself pre-op (which I was fine with -- it was ok!). The doctor came in to talk to me prior to surgery and ask the usual question (and to write "Yes" on the shoulder he was doing surgery on and "No" on the other one -- I thought that was kind of funny too). Anyway, he asked me where my husband was. I told him I am not married and he didn't believe me. He asked "how can you not be married" (well, I have a lot of explanations) and then he said it probably because I intimidated everyone, being a physics professor and all. He went on with his questions and I didn't think anything of it. Well, when my dad was driving me home, I asked him about the surgery (the doctor told him all about it, but was long gone before I woke up and could find out about it). My dad's answer: "They did a lot on your shoudler". Great! I was particularly curious because if they had done one particular part, then I would have to be in a sling for 6 to 8 weeks, but if not then I would only be in the sling for 2 or 3 weeks. That was important to me. Anyway, I wander......As we continued to my house, my dad told me about Dr. Bean telling my dad he was surprised that I'm not married. Oops -- my dad's "favorite" subject. My dad started telling Dr. Bean how much he wished he could see me married, etc. Well, Dr. Bean told my dad that I'm not married because guys find me too intimidating. Revelation! Apparently my dad had never thought of this before. It was as if the world now made sense. I had to laugh. I told Dr. Bean yesterday that he changed my dad's whole view. He couldn't believe my dad hadn't realized it. Of course, I know there are many other reasons why I'm not married, besides the intimidation factor, but I know that has been at least an issue in the past.
Oh the fine times at the doctor's office! I am truly grateful to have found a doctor that is personable, who cares about me as an individual, and who is very good at what he does. My shoulder is doing really well, though I still have a ways to go. My range of motion is pretty much back, but I need to work more on my strength. I know it will come with time...... Racquetball anyone? I wonder if I can....... I know, I know, I'm supposed to give it up, but I don't think I will be able to, at least not yet.
He is a great doctor! He did my left shoulder surgery 6 years ago so I was definitely planning on going back to him, though he is all the way back in Layton. Well worth it! Granted, I hope I don't need more surgery, but I wouldn't mind visiting with him once in a while.
Another funny experience that I want to remember, so I will write it here: When I went to have my shoulder surgery, my sweet neighbor drove me up to Layton and I had arranged for my dad to come pick me up. I didn't think my dad should have to drive all the way down from Harrisville just to drive back to North Layton and sit for who knows how many hours. Anyway, this left me by myself pre-op (which I was fine with -- it was ok!). The doctor came in to talk to me prior to surgery and ask the usual question (and to write "Yes" on the shoulder he was doing surgery on and "No" on the other one -- I thought that was kind of funny too). Anyway, he asked me where my husband was. I told him I am not married and he didn't believe me. He asked "how can you not be married" (well, I have a lot of explanations) and then he said it probably because I intimidated everyone, being a physics professor and all. He went on with his questions and I didn't think anything of it. Well, when my dad was driving me home, I asked him about the surgery (the doctor told him all about it, but was long gone before I woke up and could find out about it). My dad's answer: "They did a lot on your shoudler". Great! I was particularly curious because if they had done one particular part, then I would have to be in a sling for 6 to 8 weeks, but if not then I would only be in the sling for 2 or 3 weeks. That was important to me. Anyway, I wander......As we continued to my house, my dad told me about Dr. Bean telling my dad he was surprised that I'm not married. Oops -- my dad's "favorite" subject. My dad started telling Dr. Bean how much he wished he could see me married, etc. Well, Dr. Bean told my dad that I'm not married because guys find me too intimidating. Revelation! Apparently my dad had never thought of this before. It was as if the world now made sense. I had to laugh. I told Dr. Bean yesterday that he changed my dad's whole view. He couldn't believe my dad hadn't realized it. Of course, I know there are many other reasons why I'm not married, besides the intimidation factor, but I know that has been at least an issue in the past.
Oh the fine times at the doctor's office! I am truly grateful to have found a doctor that is personable, who cares about me as an individual, and who is very good at what he does. My shoulder is doing really well, though I still have a ways to go. My range of motion is pretty much back, but I need to work more on my strength. I know it will come with time...... Racquetball anyone? I wonder if I can....... I know, I know, I'm supposed to give it up, but I don't think I will be able to, at least not yet.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Spoiled
Bully always manages to find the most comfy places to hang out. Leave it to him to find the best pillows a blankets to cuddle up in!
Not only does he get comfy, but if I get close, he raises his leg so I can scratch his tummy! Please momma! Please!
Yes, he's spoiled rotten. AND he knows it! He's worth it too. How did I get so lucky?
Not only does he get comfy, but if I get close, he raises his leg so I can scratch his tummy! Please momma! Please!Yes, he's spoiled rotten. AND he knows it! He's worth it too. How did I get so lucky?San Diego
The weekend before school started, my lab coordinator Sharon, and I headed to San Diego for a conference. The conference was really good and even better, we had time to visit some beaches. I love the beach! Here are some beautiful pictures.
This last beach was my favorite. It was in Del Mar and it was a doggy beach. It made me miss my boys. I know Rocky wouldn't like the beach, but I wonder if Bully would. It would be fun to take him sometime.
We were able to arrange a late departure on our last day so we headed to the Wild Animal Park. Very cool! I have been to the San Diego zoo a couple of times, but had never been to the Wild Animal Park. I really enjoyed it. The basic admission included a tram ride around an outdoor enclosure. Here are some of the animals we saw:
For a lot more money, you could take tours out into the enclosures to see the animals up close and personal (kind of like an African safari). I would love to do it, but wasn't willing to spend the money. Here is a truck out feeding some of the animals:
All of the animals were amazing. Here were some gorillas:
The workers had spread food throughout the enclosure so the big male gorilla was foraging around looking for the food. He carried the carrot around for a while as he looked for more food.
They had both African and Asian elephants. The main difference is the size of their ears. They are beautiful creatures! I loved seeing the baby elephants.
As we neared the lion enclosure, there were signs about the lion cubs born a while back. I was soooooo excited to see the cubs. But, when we got there, there was only this male (he was beautiful!):
Luckily, as we toured the rest of the park, we had a chance to come back by and this time the male was gone and the cubs were out. WhooHoooo! They were so cute.
One of these cubs was chewing on a bone. A while later another cub came out and stole the bone from this cub. They had a good chase. It was fun to watch, though I couldn't get it on camera. On our way out, we saw these cute monkeys. Notice the baby on the left. It was fun to watch him swing around. Not very coordinated yet.
Our final stop was a section where you could pet some of the animals. Sharon isn't a big animal fan (at least not up close and personal) so only I went in. I was able to buy some food and feed the animals. They were very cute.
I love San Diego! I'm grateful for the opportunity to enjoy some time outside of the conference.
This last beach was my favorite. It was in Del Mar and it was a doggy beach. It made me miss my boys. I know Rocky wouldn't like the beach, but I wonder if Bully would. It would be fun to take him sometime.
We were able to arrange a late departure on our last day so we headed to the Wild Animal Park. Very cool! I have been to the San Diego zoo a couple of times, but had never been to the Wild Animal Park. I really enjoyed it. The basic admission included a tram ride around an outdoor enclosure. Here are some of the animals we saw:
For a lot more money, you could take tours out into the enclosures to see the animals up close and personal (kind of like an African safari). I would love to do it, but wasn't willing to spend the money. Here is a truck out feeding some of the animals:
All of the animals were amazing. Here were some gorillas:
The workers had spread food throughout the enclosure so the big male gorilla was foraging around looking for the food. He carried the carrot around for a while as he looked for more food.
They had both African and Asian elephants. The main difference is the size of their ears. They are beautiful creatures! I loved seeing the baby elephants.
As we neared the lion enclosure, there were signs about the lion cubs born a while back. I was soooooo excited to see the cubs. But, when we got there, there was only this male (he was beautiful!):
Luckily, as we toured the rest of the park, we had a chance to come back by and this time the male was gone and the cubs were out. WhooHoooo! They were so cute.
One of these cubs was chewing on a bone. A while later another cub came out and stole the bone from this cub. They had a good chase. It was fun to watch, though I couldn't get it on camera. On our way out, we saw these cute monkeys. Notice the baby on the left. It was fun to watch him swing around. Not very coordinated yet.
Our final stop was a section where you could pet some of the animals. Sharon isn't a big animal fan (at least not up close and personal) so only I went in. I was able to buy some food and feed the animals. They were very cute.
I love San Diego! I'm grateful for the opportunity to enjoy some time outside of the conference.Bullwinkle & Orion
A couple of months ago, Orion came to play for the weekend. Bully has fun playing with Orion! They are hilarious together. When they are done playing, Bully's head is soaking wet with Orion slobber. It's gross, yet funny.
I have a doggy door off the kitchen so I'm used to my dogs going in and out as they please. When Orion was here, I didn't think about having to let him out. The poor dog, after playing hard for a long time, came running up in front of me (I was sitting on the recliner) and looked at me anxiously. Then he started "leaking". I jumped up and was hurrying to usher him out the door. Here's what he left behind (can you see the trail):
I have a doggy door off the kitchen so I'm used to my dogs going in and out as they please. When Orion was here, I didn't think about having to let him out. The poor dog, after playing hard for a long time, came running up in front of me (I was sitting on the recliner) and looked at me anxiously. Then he started "leaking". I jumped up and was hurrying to usher him out the door. Here's what he left behind (can you see the trail):
I'm glad it was vinyl floor! It was easy to clean up. It's my own fault for not thinking about letting him out. He quickly learned to use the doggy door and let himself out after that. I felt bad that he was trying so hard to keep it in.
At night, Orion would sleep in his kennel, down in the front room. Is was cute because Bully would sleep at the top of the stairs (there is a baby gate at the top to keep him from going down). It was as if Bully was watching over Orion. They had a good weekend together.
Better Late Than Never
I had my basement finished over the summer. I LOVE IT! I've een waiting for it to be "perfect" -- put together and clean, before I took pictures, but I realized that just isn't going to happen any time soon, so here they are. This first picture is in my "entertainment center" area. Both couches recline (and boy are the comfy!).
Here is a shot of the entertainmnet center. I had my cabinets custom built. They turned out so beautiful! I had cabinets put in my laundry room as well, but I didn't take pictures of that yet. It is far too messy! That's where I put the excess "stuff" when I was taking these pictures. :) 
Here's my vanity. I ordered it from Costco. The contractor told me it would be much cheaper that way, since I had already found one I liked. I ordered a matching mirror, but it was shattered in shipping. I found this medicine cabinet at Lowe's and it matches perfectly. It's kind of a tight squeeze, but that's ok. I should have taken a close up of the faucet. It is so cool! It is like a watering trough. You'll have to see it in person! :) I am not including a picture of the shower because, well, it's a shower. Same with the toilet. Nothing exciting to see (very exciting to have!).
Opposite the entertainment center, I have a small wet bar and then room for my game table (currently filled with "stuff"). The box is my microwave waiting for someone to install it. The big "pillows" are love sacs slowly "poofing" up.
This is the wet bar. The hole above the sink is for the microwave. Thanks to my friend Kathy who suggested I put the wet bar between the two doors. I love it! It turned out so fabulously. Through the door on the right, there is a bedroom. I didn't take a picture of it since it's just an empty room right now. I am very happy with the outcome of the basement finish. I ran out of money (so Christmas trips for me), but it is well worth it. I will be enjoying this basement for many years to come. I hope to share it with any friends that want to come over!
Here is a shot of the entertainmnet center. I had my cabinets custom built. They turned out so beautiful! I had cabinets put in my laundry room as well, but I didn't take pictures of that yet. It is far too messy! That's where I put the excess "stuff" when I was taking these pictures. :) Here's my vanity. I ordered it from Costco. The contractor told me it would be much cheaper that way, since I had already found one I liked. I ordered a matching mirror, but it was shattered in shipping. I found this medicine cabinet at Lowe's and it matches perfectly. It's kind of a tight squeeze, but that's ok. I should have taken a close up of the faucet. It is so cool! It is like a watering trough. You'll have to see it in person! :) I am not including a picture of the shower because, well, it's a shower. Same with the toilet. Nothing exciting to see (very exciting to have!).
Opposite the entertainment center, I have a small wet bar and then room for my game table (currently filled with "stuff"). The box is my microwave waiting for someone to install it. The big "pillows" are love sacs slowly "poofing" up.
This is the wet bar. The hole above the sink is for the microwave. Thanks to my friend Kathy who suggested I put the wet bar between the two doors. I love it! It turned out so fabulously. Through the door on the right, there is a bedroom. I didn't take a picture of it since it's just an empty room right now. I am very happy with the outcome of the basement finish. I ran out of money (so Christmas trips for me), but it is well worth it. I will be enjoying this basement for many years to come. I hope to share it with any friends that want to come over!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Moral Dreams
Just a funny portion of my dream from last night..... I met a very good looking guy who was in town for a conference of some sort. He asked me out. Well, I knew he wasn't a member of the church, so I made him sign a form stating he knew what sort of things I would and would not do with him. I wanted him to know up front what to expect from me and to commit to only that. :)
You are not normal
I can't tell you how many times I have had people tell me I am not normal. I find this rather amusing. I was thinking about it today as I was driving home. One thing not normal about me...... I have to consciously breathe. I hold my breath all the time. Not to the point where I'm gasping for air or anything. I just hold it for a while, then breathe normally. When I'm driving or reading, I will notice and force myself to breathe at a regular pace. Strange! I'm assuming it's a reaction to stress, though I don't feel extraordinarily stressed (thank goodness). Just kind of a weird quirk of mine.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
A Little More Information.......
I've had a few comments on my state of tiredness. Thank you for all your concern! For those who haven't been "in the loop". I have tried more sleeping pills than I can even count. They don't make me sleep any "better" than I already do. I still dream crazily and I feel like I have lived another life all night long. The other problem with sleeping pills is that they leave me feeling a little groggy in the morning. I'm already tired, I don't need to add grogginess! :)
So, a few years ago my doctor thought maybe the sleepiness could be a side effect of some other meds I was taking. He changed my meds. We tried 3 or 4 different meds over the course of many months, but there was no change. I have another doctor now who had me stop the meds altogether and still no change. I have had a night time sleep study (I'm not sure how a person is supposed to sleep with a million wires hanging from them). I've had a day time sleep study. I've had a few oximetry studies. Conclusion: no sleep apnea, no narcolepsy, no clue what it is! In fact, the sleep specialist I have gone to told me that I'm "not normal". I had to laugh at that. I didn't need to pay big bucks for her to tell me that! I'm smart enough to figure that out on my own....
My doctor had me try the CPAP machine (forced air for sleep apnea) to see if it might help. It drove me crazy! It took a while, but I was finally able to sleep with it for a while, but there never was any benefit. My sleep specialist wants me to try it again, but the thought of using it again fills me with such dread and I break down into tears. For those who know me, I don't cry -- at least not very often. The thought of the CPAP machine is so torcherous to me that I actually cried in the doctor's office. I told the doctor I would try it again, basically to please her. Due to some scheduling problems, it has never worked out for me to try it. I've even called the company to see when they might deliver it. It was ordered in May, but still no delivery (the middle of September). I called the doctor's office to ask about it. The doctor had told me that maybe if it worked this time that there is a mouth insert that could work. I asked if we could just try the mouth insert and I was told that it is only 50% effective. What?! What's the point of torchering me more than? She basically came out and told me that she didn't think it really would be helpful. So WHY are we trying it? Well, I decided to take the 5 months of not being able to straighten things out and get the CPAP machine to me as a sign that I didn't need to try it again. It didn't work the last time I tried it (1 year ago) and I don't know why I should think it would work now.
For now, I rely on stimulants during the day to keep me somewhat coherent. They work ok and I can make it through the day. I'm grateful for that. I'm kind of at a loss as to what to try next. I don't take the stimulants on the weekends to try to minimize my body developing a tolerance to them (my body is amazingly efficient at tolerating many drugs -- in fact, I can take some of the stimulants and still be asleep within the hour....). I don't want the stimulants to be the permanent solution, but they are all I have right now.
So, that is my sob story. I was reading back in my journal and realized this has been going on for well over 4 years. Thinking back, when I was living in Kaysville, I would have to stop on the way home from work (in Salt Lake) and take a nap in the parking lot of Smith's. That was a good 5 or 6 years ago. I guess I really can't pin point a start to my sleeping problems. All I know is they have gotten bad enough that I can no longer function. I'm far too grouchy with my poor students. I feel bad when I get cross with them, but if they would just stop whining! :)
Ok, so that is more of the story. I appreciate everyone's love and support! If you have further ideas, feel free to send them my way. I will continue to write down my more entertaining dreams. I might as well entertain all of you if I can!
So, a few years ago my doctor thought maybe the sleepiness could be a side effect of some other meds I was taking. He changed my meds. We tried 3 or 4 different meds over the course of many months, but there was no change. I have another doctor now who had me stop the meds altogether and still no change. I have had a night time sleep study (I'm not sure how a person is supposed to sleep with a million wires hanging from them). I've had a day time sleep study. I've had a few oximetry studies. Conclusion: no sleep apnea, no narcolepsy, no clue what it is! In fact, the sleep specialist I have gone to told me that I'm "not normal". I had to laugh at that. I didn't need to pay big bucks for her to tell me that! I'm smart enough to figure that out on my own....
My doctor had me try the CPAP machine (forced air for sleep apnea) to see if it might help. It drove me crazy! It took a while, but I was finally able to sleep with it for a while, but there never was any benefit. My sleep specialist wants me to try it again, but the thought of using it again fills me with such dread and I break down into tears. For those who know me, I don't cry -- at least not very often. The thought of the CPAP machine is so torcherous to me that I actually cried in the doctor's office. I told the doctor I would try it again, basically to please her. Due to some scheduling problems, it has never worked out for me to try it. I've even called the company to see when they might deliver it. It was ordered in May, but still no delivery (the middle of September). I called the doctor's office to ask about it. The doctor had told me that maybe if it worked this time that there is a mouth insert that could work. I asked if we could just try the mouth insert and I was told that it is only 50% effective. What?! What's the point of torchering me more than? She basically came out and told me that she didn't think it really would be helpful. So WHY are we trying it? Well, I decided to take the 5 months of not being able to straighten things out and get the CPAP machine to me as a sign that I didn't need to try it again. It didn't work the last time I tried it (1 year ago) and I don't know why I should think it would work now.
For now, I rely on stimulants during the day to keep me somewhat coherent. They work ok and I can make it through the day. I'm grateful for that. I'm kind of at a loss as to what to try next. I don't take the stimulants on the weekends to try to minimize my body developing a tolerance to them (my body is amazingly efficient at tolerating many drugs -- in fact, I can take some of the stimulants and still be asleep within the hour....). I don't want the stimulants to be the permanent solution, but they are all I have right now.
So, that is my sob story. I was reading back in my journal and realized this has been going on for well over 4 years. Thinking back, when I was living in Kaysville, I would have to stop on the way home from work (in Salt Lake) and take a nap in the parking lot of Smith's. That was a good 5 or 6 years ago. I guess I really can't pin point a start to my sleeping problems. All I know is they have gotten bad enough that I can no longer function. I'm far too grouchy with my poor students. I feel bad when I get cross with them, but if they would just stop whining! :)
Ok, so that is more of the story. I appreciate everyone's love and support! If you have further ideas, feel free to send them my way. I will continue to write down my more entertaining dreams. I might as well entertain all of you if I can!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
It's sad when.....
Ok, so one of my students came up to me after class and asked me if I have a newborn at home. He said that I look as tired as his wife does and they have a newborn. I had to laugh. I told him no, but I wish I had a known reason for being so tired. I sleep at night (the night passes too quickly for me to actually be awake the whole time), but I always feel so tired in the morning. My dreams are so vivid. I dream all night long and I feel like I have lived whatever I was dreaming. I'm living a double life! How do I stop?!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Last Night's Dreams......
I spent most of the night trying to finish up some sort of project. I can’t quite pinpoint what it was, but it was very frustrating for me. It was like I was in charge and someone was supposed to be taking over for me on a certain date or at a certain time. I was holding out until that happened, but it never did. I was so frustrated because I had to keep working with no relief from anyone.
The part I really remember – I had gone to a conference of some sort. We had some free time and our hotel was right on the beach so I decided to go swimming for a while. There were all sorts of animals to see and swim with. I was so excited. There was something like a jelly fish (though it wasn’t a jelly fish). There were horses. I wanted to pet the horses so I got fairly close and in the process, one of them reared up in the water and came down on me. It definitely scared me so I decided I would stay away from them. On the ocean floor there were bones that we could see (I remember whale bones). I swam over to another part, but there were beetles all over and I didn’t like that so much. I was so happy swimming around and seeing everything. I decided to get out for a while and there was a pavilion that people could sit at and watch the animals. I sat in there for a while. Seals came out and sprayed us with water. Then there was a frog, which happened to be my boss (which was not weird at all in my dream), that came up and kept spraying water specifically on me. Another animal came out and “sneezed” all over us. It was pretty gross. I decided to go in and find the people that had come with me to this conference. My friend wasn’t in our room (I have no idea who this friend was). We had some other people that came with us that had an adjoining room. I didn’t like them very much and I realized they had been coming into our room. I wasn’t very happy about that. I went in search of my friend. I went to the restaurant where I had been eating with some other friends prior to swimming. They had ordered custard (I remember telling them to save me some since I love custard). When I got to the table, they hadn’t eaten hardly any of it because they didn’t like it. I was so excited because there was so much left over for me. It was so yummy. (By the time I got back to the restaurant, my friends were long gone and the custard dish was just sitting there on their table. I assumed it was there dish and started eating out of it. Strange!). I spent the rest of the evening looking for my friend that had come with me. I wanted her to go swimming with me and to see how cool all the animals were.
The part I really remember – I had gone to a conference of some sort. We had some free time and our hotel was right on the beach so I decided to go swimming for a while. There were all sorts of animals to see and swim with. I was so excited. There was something like a jelly fish (though it wasn’t a jelly fish). There were horses. I wanted to pet the horses so I got fairly close and in the process, one of them reared up in the water and came down on me. It definitely scared me so I decided I would stay away from them. On the ocean floor there were bones that we could see (I remember whale bones). I swam over to another part, but there were beetles all over and I didn’t like that so much. I was so happy swimming around and seeing everything. I decided to get out for a while and there was a pavilion that people could sit at and watch the animals. I sat in there for a while. Seals came out and sprayed us with water. Then there was a frog, which happened to be my boss (which was not weird at all in my dream), that came up and kept spraying water specifically on me. Another animal came out and “sneezed” all over us. It was pretty gross. I decided to go in and find the people that had come with me to this conference. My friend wasn’t in our room (I have no idea who this friend was). We had some other people that came with us that had an adjoining room. I didn’t like them very much and I realized they had been coming into our room. I wasn’t very happy about that. I went in search of my friend. I went to the restaurant where I had been eating with some other friends prior to swimming. They had ordered custard (I remember telling them to save me some since I love custard). When I got to the table, they hadn’t eaten hardly any of it because they didn’t like it. I was so excited because there was so much left over for me. It was so yummy. (By the time I got back to the restaurant, my friends were long gone and the custard dish was just sitting there on their table. I assumed it was there dish and started eating out of it. Strange!). I spent the rest of the evening looking for my friend that had come with me. I wanted her to go swimming with me and to see how cool all the animals were.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Here They Come Again
Ok, so I'm sitting here thinking "I really wish my friends would update their blogs!" and I look at my own and see the last time I posted was in the middle of July. That was last week, right?! Where has the time gone? Anyway, when I had my shoulder surgery, I stopped writing down my dreams (it was far too hard to try and type while my right hand was in a sling for 6 weeks). Well, I got out of the habit. The dreams didn't go away, but I forgot to write them down. Last night's dream was far too strange to not write down so hopefully I will get back into the swing of things. At least I can entertain some of you (you can be grateful you're not me!).
Last night’s dream was interesting. I dreamt I had gone to a ward activity of some kind (Enrichment night or something like that). I had asked a friend of mine (Liz Schultz) to help me get to my visiting teaching appointment. I had my own “transportation”, but for some reason I needed her help. Or maybe I just wanted her to follow me and make sure I got there ok. My “transportation” was a small chest of drawers, something like a night stand. I had a lamp on top and some papers. Anyway, I sat on top of this chest and pushed off to get myself going. In the parking lot, I was moving fine, but once I got to the street, I just couldn’t get my “transportation” to work for me. The lamp was falling over and I was dropping papers everywhere and I just couldn’t get the thing to go! Liz and I talked for a little while and decided it really would be easier if we had a rope that we could tie around my “transportation” and pull me to where I needed to me. Alas, we did not have a rope and so that was not a viable solution. At that point we gave up and I told her I would figure out how to get to where I needed to be.
Well, I ended up at a house where I some of my nephews were (Nate and his brothers). I went to hang out in the backyard with my dog, Bullwinkle. My nephews were laughing and joking and asked me if I wanted to see something funny. Sure! They got together a bunch of crushed up fruit loops and started screeching really high and then they ran inside. This made me a little nervous since I was still sitting outside. A few seconds later hundreds of chipmunks came running to the fruit loops to eat them. I was swarmed. I decided to let Bullwinkle go to see what he would do. He ran towards the big group of chipmunks and then stopped, cocked his head to the side, and just sniffed them. I was really worried about them attacking Bullwinkle and giving him some sort of disease. I started to hustle to get the dogs in the house so I would have to worry about them. I got Bullwinkle in ok and then I was looking for Rocky. In the process of looking I noticed one of the chipmunks (a very large one) happened to have on a collar and a leash. Weird! This must be someone’s pet chipmunk! It seemed kind of worried as well. It was so kind though and helped me herd Rocky into the house. The problem was trying to keep all the chipmunks outside. We got Rocky in and this “pet” chipmunk tried to come in as well. As we hurried and slammed the door, it turns out I got the “pet” chipmunk caught so he was half in the house and half out – underneath the door. Yes, he was squished. Luckily in my dream he was very “flexible” and this didn’t kill him. I opened the door and he was fine. We pushed him back outside. I felt kind of bad because he had helped get Rocky inside, but I didn’t know anything else about this “pet” chipmunk and didn’t want to risk having him in the house. Talking to my nephews, it was actually a ferret that belonged to their neighbor.
And that’s all I remember………
Last night’s dream was interesting. I dreamt I had gone to a ward activity of some kind (Enrichment night or something like that). I had asked a friend of mine (Liz Schultz) to help me get to my visiting teaching appointment. I had my own “transportation”, but for some reason I needed her help. Or maybe I just wanted her to follow me and make sure I got there ok. My “transportation” was a small chest of drawers, something like a night stand. I had a lamp on top and some papers. Anyway, I sat on top of this chest and pushed off to get myself going. In the parking lot, I was moving fine, but once I got to the street, I just couldn’t get my “transportation” to work for me. The lamp was falling over and I was dropping papers everywhere and I just couldn’t get the thing to go! Liz and I talked for a little while and decided it really would be easier if we had a rope that we could tie around my “transportation” and pull me to where I needed to me. Alas, we did not have a rope and so that was not a viable solution. At that point we gave up and I told her I would figure out how to get to where I needed to be.
Well, I ended up at a house where I some of my nephews were (Nate and his brothers). I went to hang out in the backyard with my dog, Bullwinkle. My nephews were laughing and joking and asked me if I wanted to see something funny. Sure! They got together a bunch of crushed up fruit loops and started screeching really high and then they ran inside. This made me a little nervous since I was still sitting outside. A few seconds later hundreds of chipmunks came running to the fruit loops to eat them. I was swarmed. I decided to let Bullwinkle go to see what he would do. He ran towards the big group of chipmunks and then stopped, cocked his head to the side, and just sniffed them. I was really worried about them attacking Bullwinkle and giving him some sort of disease. I started to hustle to get the dogs in the house so I would have to worry about them. I got Bullwinkle in ok and then I was looking for Rocky. In the process of looking I noticed one of the chipmunks (a very large one) happened to have on a collar and a leash. Weird! This must be someone’s pet chipmunk! It seemed kind of worried as well. It was so kind though and helped me herd Rocky into the house. The problem was trying to keep all the chipmunks outside. We got Rocky in and this “pet” chipmunk tried to come in as well. As we hurried and slammed the door, it turns out I got the “pet” chipmunk caught so he was half in the house and half out – underneath the door. Yes, he was squished. Luckily in my dream he was very “flexible” and this didn’t kill him. I opened the door and he was fine. We pushed him back outside. I felt kind of bad because he had helped get Rocky inside, but I didn’t know anything else about this “pet” chipmunk and didn’t want to risk having him in the house. Talking to my nephews, it was actually a ferret that belonged to their neighbor.
And that’s all I remember………
Monday, July 14, 2008
He's Here!
Nate and April's baby boy, Calvin Nathan, was born this morning at 9:17 am. He was 7 lbs 11 oz and 20 inches long. He's such a handsome little baby. A good mixture of his mom and dad.
Here is one of his perfect little hands with very long fingers....
Look at my nice big feet! :) Aren't they cute?
Proud Mama and Papa......
A very happy Grammy was glad to be here to enjoy his arrival.......
Aunt Dionne, Uncle Dallas, and their girls came to meet their new nephew and cousin....
Great Aunt Trina also enjoying her turn...... (not that I'm "great", it's just that he's my grand nephew -- my nephew's son)......
Here is one of his perfect little hands with very long fingers....
Look at my nice big feet! :) Aren't they cute?
Proud Mama and Papa......
A very happy Grammy was glad to be here to enjoy his arrival.......
Aunt Dionne, Uncle Dallas, and their girls came to meet their new nephew and cousin....
Great Aunt Trina also enjoying her turn...... (not that I'm "great", it's just that he's my grand nephew -- my nephew's son)......
Monday, June 30, 2008
Happy Birthday (a couple of weeks ago)
My birthday was a couple of weeks ago. My dad came down a couple of days before my birthday to take me out to lunch. I let him choose the place because he can be pretty picky. Guess where we went?!? IHOP! :) Yes, IHOP. Happy Birthday to me. It was fine and it was fun to visit with him. Just not the place I would have chosen.
The next night a few of my neighbors went out to dinner with me and then back to their house. My neighbor had even made me a beautiful cake! Isn't it pretty?!
We enjoyed visiting and playing with the kids. The night of my actual birthday, a friend took me to Macaroni Grill. Yummy! I chose that specifically because they give you free chocolate cake for your birthday. It's the best chocolate cake I've ever had! It is covered with hot fudge and nuts.
I'm so grateful for friends to help me celebrate!
The next night a few of my neighbors went out to dinner with me and then back to their house. My neighbor had even made me a beautiful cake! Isn't it pretty?!
We enjoyed visiting and playing with the kids. The night of my actual birthday, a friend took me to Macaroni Grill. Yummy! I chose that specifically because they give you free chocolate cake for your birthday. It's the best chocolate cake I've ever had! It is covered with hot fudge and nuts. I'm so grateful for friends to help me celebrate!
Hot Summer
I must admit I was enjoying the cooler weather than brought us into June. Now it's very hot (I'm not a big fan of the heat). A long time ago, someone told me about doggy ice cream and I found some at Wal Mart. I thought my boys deserved some tasty cooling off!
Bully has definately loved it! I tried to get him to like it out of the cup as I held it, but he was too afraid (he is such a wimpy dog). Rocky loves the ice cream too, but he can't eat very much -- it makes him sick (which I don't like to clean up).
Bully has definately loved it! I tried to get him to like it out of the cup as I held it, but he was too afraid (he is such a wimpy dog). Rocky loves the ice cream too, but he can't eat very much -- it makes him sick (which I don't like to clean up).
Tax Rebate
Last year I decided to spend my tax rebate on a new bed. I've wanted a new bed for quite some time. I decided on the intelligel bed because it is supposed to be good at reducing pressure points. With the shoulders I have, I thought it would be best. After I bought the bed, I realized that I hadn't thought about a frame. Oops! Well, all my life I've wanted a tall bed with a nice frame. So, I splurged! Here are some pictures of the finished product (on a day the bed was made!).
I already had the bedding. When I was living in Kaysville, I was sleeping on my parents king sized bed so I bought the bedding then. My dad wanted to take it with him, but I wouldn't give it up.
To go with the new bed frame, I also bought a night stand and a dresser. After all, I want things to match! :)
I already had the bedding. When I was living in Kaysville, I was sleeping on my parents king sized bed so I bought the bedding then. My dad wanted to take it with him, but I wouldn't give it up.To go with the new bed frame, I also bought a night stand and a dresser. After all, I want things to match! :)
I'm not the only one that loves the new bed.... Bully likes to climb up on the pillows and curl up.
Ben & Kelly's Wedding
I'm a little slow in posting about the wedding. It was very nice! The night before the wedding we had a BBQ (they were getting a grill as a gift so they decided to get it early). They had a bunch of chairs set out for people to sit on and visit, but being with only one usable arm, I thought it would be easier to sit on the porch. It became the "kids" table. I thought this picture was funny. The littlest girl (dark hair) is Dana, my friends daughter. She wanted to sit by me, which is how it became the "kids" table.
I took a bunch of pictures on the wedding day. The wedding was in their back yard. It looked very nice. This is their wedding cake. Isn't it beautiful?!
Here's a couple more pictures. The first is with Ben and Kelly, the newest happy couple and then Jill and Bao with their kids Dana and Reid. Jill, Bao, Kelly, and I all went to graduate school together. I'm grateful we still keep in contact!
Finally, I wanted a picture with them as well. I can't say I'm looking my best, but oh well. There's only so much I can do with one arm!
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