My Diabetic Child

Blue... as in Blue Heel Society

2012-02-13T20:25:00.000-05:00

February Photo Challenge... day 13

I admittedly skipped yesterday. To be honest... my closet it a mess and I choose to take a nap rather than clean it for a picture. I hang my head in shame.

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Today's challenge is "blue". HA! What D-Mama cant come up with something blue??

I have had this post planned for some time, but a few things(okay, one thing) had to happen before I could finish it the way I wanted.

WELL, it has happened, so here goes...

Today just happens to be the three month anniversary of a fun group dedicated to raising Diabetes awareness. You guessed it...

I think the idea is fantastic... what better excuse does a girl need to buy shoes?? So happy anniversary to them and on with this post for me...

Just so you know... I was wearing blue shoes before I knew blue shoes were so damn cool. Not very often that I'm ahead of the game, ya know.

February photo challenge photo

Granted they are not the blue shoes you would expect ME to wear, but even I have to throw on the running shoes sometimes and at least they are a damn good color.

Having said that... I have been checking out these sassy lil bitches for a while.

And guess what... they are on the way!!!! Thanks to my awesome husband. Happy Valentines Day to MEEEE!!!

There is nothing like a six inch (yes, I said six) pair of red bottoms to start a conversation and open up opportunity to spread awareness. And there is nothing better than looking damn good while doing it.

So, ~~Hats off~~ heels up to the founders of the Blue Heel Society... May we kick some D ass and raise awareness; one conversation at a time ;)

**My blue shoes have a meaning behind them. Say something and I will tell you all about it.

Makes Me Happy...

2012-02-11T23:55:00.001-05:00

February photo challenge day 11....

Today's challenge: "Makes Me Happy"

This one was easy...

Hanging out with these two.

The milkshakes weren't bad either .

Me...

2012-02-11T17:00:00.000-05:00

February photo challenge... day 10

Ten days in and I've already failed the challenge. In my defense, I did take the pictures yesterday... I just never had a chance to post them. As soon as I got home from work yesterday, we packed up and went out for a family date night. We didn't get back until around 10:30pm and I fell asleep on the couch trying to load the photos onto the laptop. Sad I know. And maybe a little old lady-ish.

Day 10's challenge was self portrait...

We all know how hard it is to take a photo of yourself. SOOOO I figured I would share a few of the photos that hit the cutting room floor; along with a little comentary, of course, just to make up for the delay.

When partaking in the task of self portraits, the first few pics are always a mess...

You may almost cut half yourself off...

Make may stupid faces...

You may even do stupid shit with your hands...

You might try to kiss the camera...

More than once...

So as your driving down the road taking pictures of yourself(yeah, I know) you decide that maybe a picture without your glasses would be nice...

hmmm
glasses on???

Or glasses off...

Until it hits you...

HOLY SHIT!! NOW I'M DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD TAKING PICTURES OF MYSELF WITH MY GLASSES OFF!!!

So we went with on...

Happy Saturday!

Front Door...

2012-02-09T22:30:00.001-05:00

February Photo Challenge... day 9

Today's challenge is about the "front door".

Yes, my front door is black(I am kinda modern like that).

I have been thinking about this post all day. I mean, what can you really say about a door?

We can start with the color...

Usually, black means something bad... like the black hole, death, darkkness... something scary.

But I know, even with the color we have splashed upon it, when we walk through that door. Everyone is safe and we've made it through another day.

Blindness...

2012-02-08T22:18:00.000-05:00

February Photo Challenge... day 8

Today's challenge is the "sun".

Staring at the sun feels a lot like your child being diagnosed with a life long illness - everything goes white. It takes a period of time for you to begin to refocus and even then your vision is weak at best.

You squint your eyes, rub them, close them tight; as they water from the burning. The blindness of it all is scary, but eventually we DO start to see again.

Here's to finding our way out of the blindness.

Button...

2012-02-07T21:05:00.000-05:00

February Challenge... day 7

Tadays challenge was tough; either that or my creative juices were all squeezed out. I sat there trying to think of a way to bring life into my photo of a button.

This is what I came up with...

See that green button? Well, if I accidentally hit that button... I hang up on you... accidentally. :( I will not willingly admit weather or not I have accidentally hit that button... accidentally.

Did I mention it would be totally accidental?

No what the hell am I going to do with "Sun"?

Dinner...

2012-02-06T20:43:00.000-05:00

February challenge... day 6

Today's challenge is "Dinner"...

BBQ Pulled Pork, Mac-N-Cheese and my favorite guy.

Doesn't get much better than that. Except for the part where he actually ate it.

10am...

2012-02-05T20:48:00.000-05:00

February Photo Challenge... day 5

Today's photo challenge simply states "10am".

So what was I doing at 10am this morning? I was driving down the road; heading to Hamburger Mary's with about 16 of my co-workers.

No worries... nobody got tooo crazy. After all, we DO have to work tomorrow.

These are not my co-workers

Bonus photo

I have no clue who the blond is.

Happy Sunday!

A Stranger...

2012-02-04T23:09:00.001-05:00

February photo challenge... day 4

Today's photo challenge is about "A Stranger".

The typical person wouldn't know what I mean by this, but I know a lot of moms who would.

We change constant. Every new stage in life molds us into a different version of ourselves. The path to growth is sometimes unpleasant in many ways, but we still know who we are.

Three years, three months and fourteen days ago... The person in that picture became a stranger; not only to me, but to almost everyone that knew her. Eventually she started to mold. She started to get to know the new her. She started to fit in to a new way of life made for the person she was becoming.

Then it happened again... with a new diagnosis, the stranger returned.

Numb. Scared. Helpless.

Unsure how to navigate this new course and wishing for the strength of a person she once knew; she carries on. Pretending to be herself.

Hands...

2012-02-03T23:58:00.000-05:00

February challenge day 3 is all about the hands.

Enough said!

February challenge... Day 2

2012-02-02T22:15:00.000-05:00

The "fine print" (for full details... go here)
1. Use the list above as inspiration and take a photo everyday.
-okay, so I already broke the the very first rule on the very first day. I am ashamed, but in my defense... I didn't read the rules before I started(typical me) and it was a last minute join at 5 am this morning.

2. Share! Wherever you want... FB, The Twit, Blog, where eva.

3. Check out everyone's pictures. As of today, there are 800 people signed up for the challenge.

********************

Okay, so now that the "fine print" is out of the way...

Today's picture challenge is "words"(see... I CAN follow the rules).

Rather than take a picture, I decided to create one using one of my favorite quotes. I found this quote a little while after I started to "come back to life" so to speak. It made sense to me and I needed to hear that I might still had some strength left in me. I keep this quote in my car and I look at it whenever I pull down my visor. I don't think it will ever get old... it seems as soon as I find my strength, something comes along that pushing me towards giving up again.

Just gotta keep truckin!!

Happy Thursday!

February challenge...

2012-02-02T05:16:00.002-05:00

Click here for more info

One of my FB friends posted this challenge. I know I am a little late getting started, but I JUST HAPPENED to take a photo yesterday.

I call it... "this is what happens when you forget to bolus before dinner #mamafail

Day one(uhum, on day two) has to be quick because I need to go to work. I will talk a little more about the challenge when I post today picture tonight.

Happy Thursday!

Five question Friday...

2012-01-27T07:00:00.002-05:00

I just found this blog thing. I think I use to visit it on occasion, but its getting hard to remember that far back. Old age maybe?

I cant believe its been almost 2 months since I posted. Things are crazy and I have started many posts about whats happening, but I can't seem to stay awake long enough to finish them.

I will, however, try and finish this one... I just LOVE 5QF!!!!

Click the pic to learn more about 5QF

1. Do you swim in the winter?

HELL NO!!! I don't start swimming until the sweat is creepin in unmentioned places as I sit by the pool gettin my tan on. Maybe some time in May.

I'm a sissy, I know.

2. Do you love or hate winter?
I L.O.V.E the winter. Granted... it is January and we are wearing shorts. But still... I love the winter ;)

3. Do you put makeup/actual clothes on when you know you're going to be home all day with just family?

LOL!!! Get dressed when I'm hanging around the house? Now THAT'S funny.

4. How old were you when you had your first alcoholic beverage?

Will my kids be reading this? Honestly, I don't remember. I looked old enough to get served before I was 21. But I am pretty sure I took a few nips off the bottle when I was in my early teens. I would guess... 14ish. SHHHH!

5. How many ill calls in a 12 month period do you think are acceptable?

I use to say 0 - 2. But that was the old manger me talking before I had a child with an funked up immune system.

Don't get me wrong... I still don't condone the caller outers who frequent the hooky playing. I just get it a little more when it comes to the mamas.

And there you have it... my first post in nearly two months. I hope it was worth the wait

THE BACK SEAT...

2011-12-04T23:58:00.000-05:00

I am ashamed to admit that Diabetes has taken a back seat to everything else lately. The new job, the house, the epilepsy medication. I have allowed Justin to run higher than usual. I have avoided making basal changes because I am to tired to get up and check more. I have allowed a site to stay in past 3 days(gasp!!). So you can imagine my stress knowing that our three month report card was scheduled for this week.

The prior three months were filled with constant lows. Constant "multi check nights" and double the stock in Juicy Juice. Three months ago... his A1C came back at a 6.4.

This time around we ran in the mid to upper 100's. Sometimes 200 with the occasional slight chance of a low. I fully expected his A1C to be back in the 7's. I fully expected a hang my head in shame for not doing better. Doing what I could; because to be honest... I turned my head and did nothing. A lot!

So how in the world did we get a 6.8???

I'll tell you that it is way less stressful to deal with him being a little higher than the constant lows we were having before. Those are just draining. I think I will try and keep that 6.8 around for a while and continue to focus on those stinky seizure meds.

Five Question Friday... 11/11/11

2011-11-11T16:43:00.001-05:00

Click on the photo to check out 5QF

I took a half a day off of work today because the kids are out of school. I am so excited because they wanted to go out and play... meaning I have quiet time to blog. What better day than Friday??? I get to sneak in a little 5QF.

1. What's the last thing you spent too much money on?

Easy!

BUT! In my defense... I love it AND I did buy it at the outlet; so it really could have been worse.

2. What celeb chef would you want to make you dinner?
Paula Dean baby! We all know that if its good... its probably not good for you. Paula's shit it fattening... so that shit MUST be good.

3. Where do you hide things when visitors pop over or do you let them see the real deal?
I have two spots... My room or the garage. I can do the 10 minute tidy like nobodies biz nez. Seriously, I think they should have named it the Lora.

4. Who is your oldest living family member?
My grandma... she's 85.

5. What is your favorite DQ treat and/or Sonic drink combo (ie: cherry vanilla dr. pepper)?
We don't really go to DQ because its just not convenient. We live right by Sonic though... and if you don't know the answer to this one... you don't know me AT ALL!
Go ahead!!! GUESS!!! What is Lora's favorite Sonic drink combo?

I'LL TAKE THE DIABETES...

2011-11-07T22:22:00.000-05:00

The constant guilt of making the wrong decision is eating at me. I don't know what to do and I want someone to make the decision for me... just to lift SOME of the guilt. SOME of the burden.

As you know(or maybe you don't), Justin was dx'd with a form of Epilepsy back in April(<-- you can read about it there). Seven months later, we are still trying to sort out the medication(<-- you can read a little about that here).

In short...the first medication caused stomach pain and vomiting. The second one they wanted him to take I refused. Med number three was working well until we realized that Justin was still having seizures, just not as often. The increase in the meds that were, up to that point, working... proved to have negative effects when increased. Justin started complaining of abdominal pain and his mood... woah! Short tempered and cranky to put it lightly.

Last week we decreased the meds and the above mentioned improved. However, we still have that "little issue" of him still having seizures.

Anthony followed up with Justin's neurologist today and they gave him the new medication that they want Justin to start IN ADDITION TO the decreased dose of the current meds. When I got home this afternoon, I realized that it is the same medication that I refused to give him when the first meds didn't work.

This medication scares me. I don't know what to do. I don't know what is best for my son, who already said something about the 7 pills a day(5 in the morning and two at night) that he was taking when we increased the dose.

He's 10... not 80. 10 year olds should not have to take that much medication in a day and my heart broke when he cried about it.

I can honestly say that as much as I hate what diabetes puts him through... I would take Diabetes over the Epilepsy and all of its horrid medication ANYDAY.

I never thought I would be in a position where I didn't know how to care for him. Where I didn't know what was best.

I just don't know what to do and I am terrified that I will make the wrong choice. I guess because I am not the one that will suffer because of it.

Hug your little one tight. They are all stronger than they should have to be.

KNOCK KNOCK... are you there??

2011-10-31T01:06:00.000-04:00

While I wait for my khaki pants to finish washing(so that I can wear the cute new shirt I picked up today) I figured I would dust off the keyboard and throw in a lil 5QF... just in case anyone missed me.

Here we go...

1. Do you prefer cotton, silk, or flannel sheets?

Lets talk this out...

I live in Florida. Florida and flannel might start with the same letter, but they do not belong together. Talk about sweatin in places you don't wanna sweat... Just sayin!

Silk. Um, back to the sweating thing... not only do you sweat, but with silk, you get the pleasure of sticking to it when you do... Just sayin!

So I guess that leaves me with cotton. Good old breathable, non stick(unless your sun burnt and have aloe on) cotton... gotta love it!

2. What time zone are you in?

Hold on while I google that...
Eastern... I am in the eastern time zone ;)

3. What is your favorite part of the holiday season?

The day after thanksgiving... I love it!!

Wait! Was I suppose to be a little more sentimental with that question?

4. What is your favorite "wintry" drink? (It doesn't have to be an "alcoholic" drink!)

Doesn't "have" to be alcoholic? Or it shouldn't be alcoholic? Cuz there is a diff!

Anywho... my favorite winery drink is the peppermint mocha at Starbucks.

HA! Betcha though I was gonna say something else.

5. In your opinion, what is the worst job in the world?

Laundry! That's all I've got.

I miss blogging regularly... I hope that things settle down enough soon and I can get back to it... after all, my sanity is found here.

Happy D-aversary

2011-10-21T07:00:00.001-04:00

We interrupt the blog slacking to wish

two awesome boys a very

HAPPY D-AVERSARY!!!!

Three years strong...

you are both true superheroes.

Five Question Friday...

2011-09-17T22:00:00.001-04:00

1. If you had a weekly newspaper column, what would you name it?

Hmmm, there's several possibilities for this one.

-Shitz Gettin Deep
-The Shoe Ho
-Lovely Lora Talks Back
-Mama Drama

I have always wanted to do an advice column, like Dear Abby or something... except I could see me being a bit more sarcastic with my advice :]. I can totally understand why no one would give me one.

2. Who is your mentor/inspiration?
???? (*cue Jeopardy music) ????
These serious questions are hard!

3. What is your wake up beverage of choice?
Some days I go for coffee and some days I prefer the diet coke. When I am being good... I am cut off from both.

4. Would you wear your mom's clothes?
hehehe! NO! First of all, my mom is about 5'2"(with shoes) and I am pushing 5'7". I think I would look a little funny. We'll just leave it at that ;)

5. When you were a kid, did you put posters on your wall? If so, what were they of?
I had my walls PLASTERED! The posters overlapped so you couldn't see any part of the wall. I remember having wall to wall New Kids on the Block posters... especially Donnie(of course I liked the "bad boy"... if you can consider any of the NKOTB "bad boys").
Here are a few of the ones I actually remember having...

However, now that Donnie has receding hair... I prefer his brother.
Get you some Marky Mark!!

Lets see what extras we have from last week...

Alexis says...
OMG. If possible I love u even more!
Of course its possible! I AM pretty damn lovable ;0)
When when when are you coming to Vegas?! Bring those shoes and those moves and we are soooo going out!!
I would love love LOVE to come to Vegas!!! We need a Dmama meet up. What happens in Vegas, right?

Reyna says...
I could so picture you and I out dancing together.
Meet us in Vegas girl... Lex will show us where all the good "Ho shoe" stores are and we can make part two of that shopping video :)

ah, yeah...you are part of the "bad girls of the DOC" club. I think it is you, me and Lex...DUH.
Hmmm! I have always considered myself a good girl. Ya know, former PTA mom and all. (*snickering)

Saying Goodbye...

2011-09-16T21:00:00.001-04:00

Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do. ~Pope John XXIII

This week has been filled with many emotions. Excitment for the future, fear of the unknown and worry for my kids.

Today I spent my last day as a part time working mom and on Monday I will begin my new journey, full time. At the end of the day, I was called into the sales room where a huge Edible Arrangment and a card, signed by everyone, awaited me. So sweet!

It's funny how families form all around you.

This was copied from the EA website, but I think this was the one.

Then I was given another gift. With it was a card that read(in part)...

"Don't question or doubt what lies ahead... it will all work out for your good!!! You have more in you than you realize! On a day where your feeling overwhelmed... theres chocolate, coffee and $ for a new pair of shoes... that should cure the blues!!!"

There were tears shed today as I was wished farewell. Many hugs, good lucks, love you's and miss you's were spoken. I felt loved.

It was a bitter sweet day for sure. I will miss my IPD family, but I will embrace this new adventure... in a kick ass pair of shoes!!!

"This is no day for sensible shoes"

As soon as I pull my shit together, I will try to finish up this weeks 5QF.

12 of 12... September

2011-09-12T23:26:00.002-04:00

On the 12th day of each month bloggers from all over the world take 12 photos of their day. Though I learned about 12 of 12 courtesy of Mike; the 12 of 12 project was Chad's idea, you can go to his website to see the links of all the people who participated this month.

The most important decision I made this morning... which ones?!?

Of course, I got my Brass Monkey on this morning.

This is why you shouldn't run outside. Because mean people, like me, take your pic and post it on their blog.

Look, you can see the building that I will work in for the rest of this week.

The stairs!!! And no, I did not take the elevator to 10 and just take the pic... I REALLY climb all those.

In my shoes!

Anthony and I decided to check out a store called GFS for the first time.

They have lots of stuff... including these!

You even get to carry your stuff out in a box!

~right on!

Anthony made Buffalo Chicken Wraps for dinner... YUM!

Don't you keep your pump cartridge in a shot glass?

This is one seriously spoiled dog!!

Happy twelfth!!!

Five Question Friday... DOUBLE FEATURE!!!!!!!

2011-09-09T21:42:00.000-04:00

Click on the photo to learn more about 5QF

With all the changes in the air... last week snuck by me. It didn't help that I spent Saturday and Sunday camped out on the couch in a NyQuil induced coma- courtesy of the head cold my husband brought home. THANKS PUMPKIN!!! Monday wasn't much better, but at least I didn't want to die.

Needless to say... I tried(really, I did) several times to function enough to finish my 5QF post. I didn't make it. HOWEVER, lucky you, that just means that this weeks 5QF becomes a double feature.

Say it with me now... "RIGHT ON!!!!"

Okay, never mind... lets get started.

1. Shoes in the house - yay or nay?

It's a free for all in my house people. I do not like walking around the house without shoes(flip flops) on. Nor do I have time to change them every time I walk outside or in the garage. So, I guess that would be "yay".

2. What do you call them- flip flops, slippers, thongs, etc?
Dude... they.are.flip.flops! Thongs are underwear that creep up your rear and slippers...

... for calling them slippers.

3. What song are you almost embarrassed to admit you know all the lyrics to?
I can not believe I'm doing this...

4. What is the best quality to have in a friend?

I have to admit... choosing one quality in a friend is tough. I require my friends to posses several qualities or they are just considered acquaintances... not friends.

5. Do you know what you want for Christmas?
I want a lot, but that doesn't mean I'm gettin it!

And now for THIS weeks 5QF...
1. What ringtone do you have on your cell phone?
I just have the regular ol' Verizon ring tone for most calls, but the one for my house is The Adams Family. lol

2. What is your favorite memory from this summer?

My favorite memory HAS to be shopping with Leighanna. This is the first year she has not had to wear uniforms and my girl and I hit the mallS on several occasions... just the two of us. SO FUN!!!

3. Paper books or ebooks?
Paper. If I want to read something electronic... I will read blogs. I need to get caught up anyways ;0)

4. If you could have one home upgrade what would it be and why?
I would add one more room. Bonus room, bedroom or whatever room. When we bought this house, it was just Anthony and I. Two kids later... they have taken over and I need more room. Like for scrap booking.

5. When was your first serious boyfriend/girlfriend?Weren't we ALL in love in high school?

His name was Jimmy. We were friends for some time... best friends! We always hung out and "it just wasn't like that". One night, we were talking and he leaned over and kissed me. I was like "Jimm..." and that was that. We started dating when I was in 10th grade and he had already graduated... shhh, my mama didn't know. We were together for more than a year and a half. I was in love! We ended up breaking up because he was tired of my mom giving us a hard time. I hated her for that, of course.

Now for the extras...
Reyna said...
"Since I don't own a pair of Ho shoes (yes, surprising to the DOC, I know...seeing as how I am one of the "BAD GIRLS"), do you wear them while doing said Laundry and toilet scrubbing?"
Um, no! Those are both total flip flop occasions.

Now about this "Bad girls" situation?!?!?! I didn't know there was a "bad girls" club. Did you mention this because I am also part of this club... or am I still considered a good girl? Please feel free to post your opinion below.

Reyna also says... "NO, Blue Man Group does NOT count. We want a new answer. Or how about naming your favorite music group?"
Really, I listen to just about everything except "death metal". Gives me a head ache.
My ipod has everything from Steve B to Eminem(along with the above mentioned Beastie Boys) and my music choice for the day usually reflects my mood. Some days its a country cry fest and some days its booty music... just depends.

Sky0138 (<--- not her real name) asks... Are you a Halloween lovin girl? And if so, what would be your all-time favorite costume to wear? lol...i'm sensing something with stripper shoes will be involved?
I do like Halloween... for "some" reason, I always end up being a witch(???). Not sure what that's about.

To change it up a bit, maybe this year I will go with something like this...

What do you think?

Of course I'll need some of these to go with it...

Kelly asks... "do you go commando while wearing the "ho shoes"?"
Shits getting deep!!!
No really. I've tried that... no.can.do.
I heart my --->

Nicole says... Blue Man group "can be considered a musical group"

Thanks Nic... I knew there was a reason I loved you!!

Hallie asks... "So what exactly is the Mayo supposed to DO to your hair??"

It makes your hair shiny and soft... I need me a mayo treatment right about now.

Amy says... "Soooooo . . . . has your mind blinked on, yet? Musical groups; uhm Blue Man Group? C'mon. Any lady who has pink glittered stripper shoes MUST have a favorite better than that ;)"

You and Reyna need to take this up with Nicole... she said they DO count.

Okay, okay...

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Pink!

I also love Rascal Flats, Eminem and Willie Nelson. Apparently my ADHD kicks in when it comes to choosing music.

I think that's it for this week. What else would you like to know? I dare ya to ask.

THE CHANGE OF SEASONS...

2011-09-07T23:03:00.001-04:00

"You can not change the circumstances,

the seasons or the wind"...

~Kahlil Gibran

As I drove Justin to school this morning it hit me... I can not be that mom anymore. The mom I was watching, happily walking her child to class. The mom chit-chatting with the other moms as their kids run ahead swinging their lunchbox back and forth. The mom I have been for so long and the mom I wish I was still able to be... just a little longer.

Last night I accepted a full time position. This path has been a long time coming, the financial hit we took during the down turn in the economy a few years ago and the high cost medical expenses we face each month has lead me to where I am today. I know I am not alone in this struggle. Many D-Mamas I hold closest to my heart, face the same challenges I do. Choosing between filling a prescription and paying a bill is a hard hard pill to swallow for anyone.

*Just to clarify: I do already work... two jobs, both part time and both super flexible. Kids get sick, bg's are high... I stay home/leave.

Okay, back to post...

The quiet ride to work today felt longer than usual. I hate riding in the car alone; it gives me to much time to think. The car can be a lonely place(does that even make sense?). I cried the whole way. I cried out of fear of the unknown, out of guilt for leaving my kids and out of anger for not having the option of another choice.

Walking into work today didn't prove to be much easier. I had the daunting task of telling my favorite cousin that I was leaving. I don't know if it was reality sinking further and further into the orbs of my mind or if I really just didn't want to give her my notice, but the crying continued. I'm such a baby!

This afternoon we had to stop and talk with my Mother-in-law. We are going to need help. Emergency at school help, help during some morning getting Justin on the bus, some afternoons getting him off or help picking him up on time from wherever we decide to take him. With D in the mix, I just don't feel comfortable with him coming home on his own.

Please don't mistake the above as being ungrateful for the opportunity that I have. I have been offered a great job with great pay and even the possibility of working from home after ten months. All of the searching for a full time job has led me to one that I think will be great in the long term. I truly believe that GOD has his hand in the path that I have been walking down and has presented me with this opportunity at the right time and at the right place. I know in my heart that it will be okay.

Only, okay doesn't make it easier. I have been home for a long time. I was blessed to have had that opportunity. Even when I started working two years ago... I was home when my kids got out of school.

This is going to be a big adjustment for all of us. Decisions on what to do about Justin need to be made - my kids have never been in a daycare. The nurse and teachers need to be talked to, communication will be transferred to Anthony for the time being. I am not sure how to hand over control. Maybe the adjustment I will be making will be the hardest of all.

From of the Mouth of Yours Truly...

2011-09-02T22:56:00.001-04:00

Welcome to another round of "From the Mouth of Yours Truly". Here is a short little list of the things I may or may not have said lately...

-I don't think I know how to do 35mph?

-Who's driving this bucket?

-It's easy to appear like your being a smart ass when your dealing with a dumb ass.

-You call it Gray Hair... I call it "Stress Highlights"

-Why is it when something goes wrong you all automatically look at me???

-I can be the girl next door, or the bitch up the street... which one do you prefer?

-Suck it up Princess, this ain't your castle!

-Go right ahead and piss me off, but remember, what comes out of my mouth is your own fault.

-I can go from Halo to Horns in 2.6 seconds..maybe less.

-I'm kinda like that annoying itch you just can't scratch.

-The biggest mistake you can make is to under estimate my intelligence and tenacity.

-I'm not saying your dumb, but if we put your brain in a peanut shell, it would rattle like a BB in a boxcar!

-Sorry, don't believe I came equipped with a filter.

Think that's about it... whats come out of your mouth lately?

Five Question Friday...

2011-08-28T00:32:00.000-04:00

To learn more about 5QF go HERE

WOAH! I haven't posted since last weeks 5QF. What's that about?? I even have a half way decent "From the Mouth of Yours Truly" sittin in the drafts.

Someones a s.l.a.c.k.e.r!!

Actually, I have a toothache that is kicking my a$$(<---for Meri). I think my wisdom tooth(that good ol' Dr. S said I had room for) is trying to squeeze it's way into its rightful place. DUDE! It huuurts to talk. SERIOUSLY! My family doesn't know what to do without my usual smarty pant ways around here.

Do you think this is payback for all the crap that comes out of my mouth?!?

Anywho... I guess I should get started before 5QF ends up being posted on Monday.

I'm not really sure how I am going to dirty up this 5QF with stripper shoes, Ho-creases or even poop, the questions are pretty clean, but I will give it a go.

1. Did you make any fun purchases this week?
I got some new shoes! Black ones!! Not super stripper high, but cute.

2. If you could go to any musical concert, what would it be?
My mind just blanked. Does Blue Man Group count as musical?

3. What is your least fav/ most fav house chore?
The dreaded L.A.U.N.D.R.Y!!!!! I can't stand it... I would rather scrub the toilet.

4. Would you prefer new appliances or clothes?
I'll take a new pair of Miss Me jeans and some kick ~~ass~~ a$$ stripper shoes please.

5. Miracle Whip or Mayo?
Neither, unless I am slathering it in my hair, and then I'll take the mayo. Actually, I'm due for a good ol' stanky mayo hair treatment.

You should see me with my head all goopy with mayo and wrapped in Saran Wrap... it's HOT!

Now lets see what we have for the extras...
Speaking of slackers... are you guys running out of questions?

Joanne asks... I have a tendency to hold grudges... how 'bout you???
"Grudge" may not be a strong enough word for what I hold. I can be spiteful... seriously spiteful!! I can refuse to speak to the hubby for days; drives him nuts and I LOVE IT! Don't mess with the queen bitch people. Just sayin!

Diane & Kelly stopped by to show some luv... be sure to stop by their blogs to do the same

Megan was a little unsure about my choice in swimsuits. I am all for whatever keeps the sand out.

Sarah says... I'm thinking Mabel just isn't a go for you!
Well, what is?? I need an alter to to blame some of this craziness on... a "Flo", a "Mabel" or even a "Cybil". How about "Lucy"?

Miss Sky0138 and Lexi, my twin. I am SO glad that I can be your entertainment!

Laura???? I left you a special surprise on last weeks 5QF and you didn't stop by... what was that I was saying about holding grudges?!?

Just a little extra from Reyna. You've gotta love a girl who will shop for "ho shoes"(with her kids) for you and even video the journey. LOVE YA GIRL!!

Looking forward to next weeks 5QF... I hope I have lots of questions to keep me busy. *she throws a "subtle" hint*

Five Question Friday... only not on Friday

2011-08-20T16:16:00.000-04:00

5QF is back from hiatus... WAHOO!!!

If you don't know what 5QF is... where the heck have you been? Noo, I'm kidding, just go HERE to check it out.

Lets get er done!!!

1. Do you close the bathroom door when you are home alone?
Holy shit!! There are doors? Is that how you keep the little people(and the nosey dog) out while you use the "facilities"?

2. You have to walk around with a word on your forehead. That word describes you. One word. What is it?
This one took me a while. My first thought was spunky, but really I am much more than that.

"Multifaceted"

(Bet ya didn't know I could use big words, did ya?!?)

Definition: Versatile
I am spunky, but only after you get to know me. In the beginning I am quiet, I take it all in, I "read" you. I can be the fun, crazy, spunky friend. I can be the sarcastic pain in the a$$. I can clean up and become the serious professional(No really, don't laugh). I can turn into Mama Bear and rip you a new one. I can impress your mama, but be the first one in the pool with you, fully dressed, after a few... er, lemonades ;). I can listen to all your worries and not say a word or I can give you advice and find a way to make you smile. Whatever the situation calls for... I can adapt. I am versatile. Multifaceted.

What word would YOU use to describe me?

3. What store do you refuse to shop at and why?
Don't gasp, but for a long time I refused to shop at Target. It was a long story, but I stayed out of Target for almost 2 1/2 years. Eventually, a friend made me go back, but I still refused to buy anything. Eventually, I got over it; even though I will NEVER buy another movie there. EVER!!

4. If you participated in arranged marriages for your child(ren), who would you choose for your child(ren)?
Tough one. I honestly don't know. I have a hard time thinking in that way because I am all about "testing out the koolaid" before hand. Meaning... find the bitterness and be sure you can deal with it before you run off with the whole glass.

Did that make sense?

5. If you could pick how and when you would die, would you?
I wouldn't want to pick when. I don't think I would want to know. However, if I could go peacefully in my sleep... that would be great.

Now for the extras...
Because of last weeks 5QF hiatus... there were two opportunities to ask questions. You can check them out HERE and HERE.

Denise asks "If you could change your name, would you and what would it be?"

That's an interesting question. I would consider changing my name, but I don't know what I would want. Definitely something longer... Lora is so short. No more than 8 letters though, because then engraving becomes difficult(I know because of Leighanna).

Reyna named my alter for me... you know the one who cusses on my blog. Her name is Mabel.

I found this when I Googled "Mabel clip art"

What do you think? Do I look like a Lora? If not, what name would fit me better?

Denise also asks "you really had to ponder a stop a Starbucks?!?! you totally just knocked yourself down a couple of notches in my eyes!! ;)"

It didn't take much thinking Denise. Really! But here's the thing. I had to get off the "juice"(i.e. coffee and coke) because I am on a diet. And I am actually doing good. It was actually a celebration coffee. I still have more to go, and I totally miss my White Chocolate Mocha, but I also want to fit into my pants. Decitions-Decitions!!

Alexis asks "while your pool side margarita or daiquiri? Very important. ;)"

I can float both ways... multifaceted, remember?!? But I prefer a good daiquiri. Are you planning on stocking up so I can visit?

Laura says "Oh and today Nate poooooped outside too. Betcha can't find clip art for that."

Well, I couldn't find anything animated, but I did find this...

Kinda looks like Nate?!?

And since things are a little backwards at your house, maybe you can teach the dog to help out...

By the way...

Okay, this is kinda gross!

Amy says "Um, who in their right mind wouldn't want to be slightly underweight? Is that a trick question?"
I dunno! I was wondering if that was a trick question too.

And... "Just where does the sand get? Can you find a life clip art for that one?!?!?!"
Amy, Amy, Amy... where DOESN'T that sand get?
My eyes... yeah, my eyes... that's where it gets.

BTW: I just learned that you SHOULD NOT Google image "sand in uncomfortable places" with your son sitting next to you. OOPS!

I am not sure if I should actually post this... but since they claim its "the cure"... what the heck. (If you offend easily, you probably don't read my blog, but just in case... close your eyes).

Google has pictures for everything!

Amy also asked... "What was Sissy doing up at the butt crack of dawn to play Wii??? Is she crazy like you? Wait. Um, yes . . . she tried on those shoes ;)
She wasn't up until almost 7(still early). I was just completely ready for work and sitting around until it was time to leave at that point. She jumped on the Wii before Justin had a chance to wake up and wreak havoc on the world :)

Nicole says "I can't believe in Florida they make stripper shoes for children...what is that state coming too?"
What can I say... they train them young here in the states!!

Mike says... "maybe she should wait a couple of years before breaking in the stripper shoes".
I totally, agree... no stripper shoes until she's at least 13.

Amy says... Hmmm... I can see the headline now: "Mother Forces Daughter to Choose Her Own Stripper Shoes at Young Age". LOL! Could she even walk in those things?
She didn't try both of those on, but she probably can... sadly, she can walk in most of my shoes. Oh, those proud mama moments!!!

Happy Saturday everyone!!! Keep the questions coming.

Feeling good about it...

2011-08-18T19:49:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year; you know... back to school.
The evidence is everywhere. There is no escaping it. What I wouldn't give to go back to the days when folders and post it notes topped my list.

For us, school starts next Tuesday. Justin is at the top of his game as the big 5th grader and Leighanna is the newbie heading off to her first year of middle school. The excitement and nerves are starting to seep their way into our house as the countdown kicks in to overdrive.

At the end of last year I sat down with the Principal. There were several(3) fifth grade teachers taking time off because they were having babies of their own. Flip flopping teachers part way through the year or having a sub for the year was not a good plan on MANY levels... even beyond D. It was agreed that Justin would not have one of the pregos or a "new to the school" teacher.

So when I got my paperwork last Saturday, you can imagine my stress when I didn't recognise the name.
He was in the room I was hoping for, but the teacher was new. FLIPPIN OUT MAMA ALERT!!

I couldn't believe it... I ASKED her not to do that.

Long story short though... it wasn't planned. The original teacher decided last minute to take a year off. Placement was already done and to be honest... not sure what other teacher I would want him to have anyways. So... we going with it.

When I called on Monday I asked that they leave her(Mrs. B) a message to contact me. I needed to schedule a time before school started to meet with her about Justin, all his gadgets and what to look for/do when it comes to the diabetes. We have a meeting set for Monday :)

Tonight was open house. Justin and I went in to meet his new teachers and visit the old ones. Mrs, B seemed really nice. I introduced myself and she automatically asked where Justin was... didn't even pause to recall his name. Beautiful... she's on the ball :)

As I made the rounds... AGP, Nurse, Speech... I hear nothing but good things. Mrs. B has already been down to the office to look into a care plan, she visited speech because he will be going there. Let's just say Mrs. B has checked up on the situation. That either makes her AWESOME or SCARED AS HELL!!! I'm going with AWESOME! Anyone who is already trying to find out the details and wants to have her "stuff" together beforehand is just that in my book.

So I'm feeling good about it... going to be an awesome year.

Just to throw a little open house drama...
When we left for open house at 4:50pm- Justin was 160. I didn't correct knowing we would running around class to class... I didn't want to worry about it.

At 5:45 I see him pulling his meter out of his pocket.

38... THIRTY FREAKING EIGHT!!!???

I swear he walks into that building and his bg takes a nose dive.

What the shit?!?
*Shrugging shoulders and rolling eyes*

Now onto updating paperwork... fun times of a D-Mama!! Right on!

Wishing everyone a wonderful school year.

12 of 12...August

2011-08-12T22:48:00.001-04:00

I know it's Friday and you were all expecting Five Question Friday... BUT 5QF is on hiatus this week because of Mama M's vacation. I am totally bummed, but I will answer all of last weeks questions next Friday... along with any new ones you want to throw at me. So get crackin with the questions...I.am.ready!

GOOD NEWS is that today is the 12th anyways; which means I get to post my 12 of 12.

On the 12th day of each month bloggers from all over the world take 12 photos of their day. Though I learned about 12 of 12 courtesy of Mike; the 12 of 12 project was Chad's idea, you can go to his website to see the links of all the people who participated this month.

I have had a hard time sleeping this week. There have been a few nights that I just can't fall asleep after I wake up... last night was one of them. My alarm went off at 4:30am to check Justin(we had pasta so it totally my fault I had to get BACK UP at that time). I gave him another small correction due to my total pasta bolus fail and laid back down. And I laid there... and laid there... and laid there. UGH! Finally at 5:15 I just got up.

Because I was up so early... I had plenty of time to sit and watch sissy rock out to some Wii Cheer.

I also had plenty of time to play.

To Oakley... mom sitting = play time!

When I got on the road... I pondered at a red light.

"Should I or shouldn't I".

I SHOULD...

Stop and get a Starbucks!!!

With my White Chocolate Mocha in hand... I headed off to work.

Here is the view from my chair.

This is what I find when I get home...

I guess we don't know how to throw stuff away.

Maybe because someone is to busy playing.

On my to do list is school supplies...

so sissy and I head out.

First we stopped at a shoe store and lookie what we found... stripper"ish" shoes.

EXCEPT!!!!!!

THAT'S NOT ME!!!!!

Guess that apple doesn't fall to far from the tree.

Unfortunately, the rain was headed our way and our trip was cut short because we needed to get the topless jeep safely into the garage.

We made it! The Jeep is all safe and snug in the garage... AND Leighanna and I are still dry. Holla!

I Lie Everyday...

2011-08-08T22:02:00.000-04:00

I realize that I am not participating in NaBloPoMo this month, but that doesn't mean that I can't "borrow" a prompt right?

I accidentally hit the saved prompt button on my favorites bar and today's NaBloPoMo prompt caught my eye. "Do you always tell the truth?".

Of course the first thought in my head was YES!
But then I thought about it... I lie everyday.

I lie when I force a smile.

I lie when I say "I'm fine".

I lie when I act as if an out of range number doesn't bother me.

I lie when fight back the tears while I watch a low.

I lie when I ignore my breaking heart during a seizure.

So if you ask me if I always tell the truth... No, I don't. I lie everyday.

Do you always tell the truth?

Five Question Friday...

2011-08-05T20:41:00.000-04:00

To learn more about 5QF go HERE

1. Do you have siblings and are you close with them?
Do you really think its wise to try and recreate perfection??

HAHA!! I'm just kidding!

It's more like... would it be good to have another being even remotely like me?!?

For Serious!!! When they say "she broke the mold"... they were talking about this chick right here

It's bad enough they allowed me to have offspring!

2. Would you rather be slightly UNDER weight or slightly OVER weight?
Under! But maybe that's because I never have been and I would like to know how it feels like to skinny dip rather than chunky dunk.

3. What's your favorite State Fair food to splurge on?
Two words...
ELEPHANT EARS!!!! (and this would be the problem with question two!)

4. What are your thoughts on your kid(s) going to school in a few weeks?
Can they start tomorrow?

5. Pool or Ocean?
I like to sit by the ocean and swim in the pool because every time I swim in the ocean ~~I get sand in the~~... ~~I get sand in my~~... I get sandy. It's not pleasant.

And lets take a look at what the "extras" from last week...

Laura asks... Will you take my children? Absolutely!! Super Nate can pee in my back yard anytime

I think he's just trying to conserve water.

Alexis says... "Vegas better get ready for us!" I'm not so sure Vegas can handle us... but I wanna come anyways :)

Reyna asks... "Am I insulting "strippers" by calling them "Hos? I most certainly did not mean to call you a "Ho". You are probably one of the very few people in the world that could get away with calling me a "Ho" :)

Although, I do think we all would pimp ourselves out for a working Pancreas don't you?! Good point! Would that make us "Ho-creases" or Pancre-ho's?

Amy says... How about a vow renewal while wearing your ho shoes? A little reception where the dress code isn't black tie, but it does include ho shoes? C'mon, you know you want to... That would only make it so I couldn't run fast. Not sure how I feel about that.

Un-Apologetic Diabetic says... "my boys won't even handle the spider smushing around here" OH! Trade them in girl... trade.them.in!!!

Denise asks... Where would you run...and for how long? That's a good question! I would go visit all my favorite D-friends <---- Awe look! She can be sweet

Thank you to everyone else for the sweet comments. I love you guys too. Keep the extra questions coming... I love those the most.

So what else would you like to know?

Last Day...

2011-07-31T23:18:00.000-04:00

I DID IT!!!!

Today is the last day of NaBloPoMo in July. I am so glad it's over :) AND guess what?!? I am so NOT posting tomorrow.

I will not be sitting here at 11:00 at night pondering what in the world I am going to write about.

NOPE! Not going to do it!

A couple good things did come out of this month of craziness. Such as... Five Question Friday has found its way to MDC(My Diabetic Child) and I think its fun so I might keep it around for a while.

Thank you to those who have stuck it out. Amy, you did awesome and rose to the challenge with the commenting.

As for me... I'm going to get some sleep.

Happy Sunday!

NaBloPoMo... day 31

Wussed out...

2011-07-30T22:58:00.000-04:00

What is it about diabetes that makes you second guess yourself? Whenever we eat pizza and pasta, I under bolus Justin(just a little) and do a temp basal increase of 30% for 6-8 hours. After trying many things... this is what works for us.

Last night was no different. We had spaghetti, I bolused him for one serving even though I gave him about one and a half plus the sauce. I set the 30% increase for six hours. Good to go, right?

At 9:40pm his bg came in at 116 and I wussed out. Meaning I canceled the last three hours of the temp basal.

Why would I do this when it is what works? I should know that its going to shoot up in just a little while and he's going to need that extra 30% to bring him back down.

Well, for the last several nights, Justin has been really low at his 2:30am check. I'm talking 30's and 40's low. No explanation. I have decreased his basal's and it has not helped.

So yes! I wussed out and boy was that a mistake.

I should have known better, but I did it anyway, and Justin ended up paying the price.

11:49 bg 332 - correction 1u
2:30 bg 362 - correction 1.5u
5:00 bg 291- correction 1.5u
wake up bg 216 full correction with breakfast

In hindsight, I should have been a little more aggressive with the corrections, but at night he is usually so sensitive and I only do half(give or take).

It was a full on rage bolus with breakfast though.

So why can't I just stick to what works? Why do I second guess the lessons learned from all my previous ~~mistakes~~ trial runs?

Maybe its because D is a bitch and it never sticks to "the plan". I don't know.

Maybe I'll get it next time!!

*Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. I am just a mom. Any change in your care should be discussed with your Endo or CDE.

NaBloPoMo... day 30

Five Question Friday...

2011-07-29T20:33:00.001-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 29

To learn more about 5QF click HERE

1. Vow renewal ceremonies-yay or nay?

Depends on what day you ask me. Today would be a big fat negatory! If I had the chance to run, I just might. Then, I wouldn't take the chance of going to jail for attempted murder(or something of that nature). Explanation: My husband has been on vacation this week... I just LUV him when he's all in my biz-nezz!!!

2. What sound/s annoy you the most?
I can't STAND to hear people eating. It seriously makes me sick to my stomach and want to smack them.

The beeping of the fire alarm when the battery needs to be changed... I mean COME ON! Does it HAVE to ALWAYS go dead in the middle of the night?!?!

One more thing, the sound boys make when they pretend to fly airplanes... don't know what it is... I just can't block that one out.

3. If you had to pick, would you have only all boys, or only all girls for kids?
Lets weigh our options...
Girls:
Cons...
-They wear your shoes
-They steal you makeup
-They act just like you
-They get girly-tudes and PMS

Pros...
-Eventually, you get to wear their shoes
-You get to torture them with nicknames like "scara" when you catch them stealing your make up.
-You see yourself in them and its funny
-You get to prove that you are the QUEEN of the "girly-tude"
-They dance and sing with you while your driving
-They shop with you

Boys:
Cons...
-They make noises... see above
-They pee on the toilet seat(and the floor)
-They like Lego's and it hurts when you step on them
-They.Know.Everything! And they learndid it on da science channel(or maybe Discovery)
-There's the whole "snakes and snails and puppy dog tails" thing

Pros...
-A little boy LOVES his mama more than anything!
-They back up their rotton-ness with a whole lotta sweet-ness
-They will catch the lizards in the house for you

This is a tough one. I guess I'd have to go with the boys... I really don't like lizards.

4. Do you believe in alternative medicine?
If I did wouldn't Justin be cured by some root wart mushroom potion by now?

5. Would you take a family member's children and raise them if they needed it?
Absolutely! Wouldn't I want the same for my kids?

And now for last weeks "extras"... WARNING! We are still talkin "HO Shoes"!

Alexis says "where the stripper shoes the reason behind....oh man I don't think I can finish the question..." the question is, Alexis, were YOUR stripper shoes the reason behind not being able to finish that question?

Andrea says "I have been totally talking about getting a tattoo on my foot too!! It is going to simply say HOPE, but kinda feminine with a flower or something attached!!!" I like that idea!

I found this one... its pretty cool
Just need to add the flower

There was one I saw(of course I can't find it again) That had a saying about walking. I wish I would have saved it.

Reyna asks "Will said foot tat" be visible while you don your stripper shoes? Or will frequently mentioned, joked about, worn HO Shoes cover the "at some time in your life foot tat"? The "at some time in my life foot tat" will be totally visible. Dude... I wear Ho shoes... do you think I would be worried about covering a tat?

Amy says "my answer to that first one wouldn't have been appropriate for my family-friendly blog"
Dear Sweet Amy! You can tell us here... I think I threw "family friendly" out the window a long time ago.

Sarah says "you seriously crack me up!" Yeah! Sometimes I crack ME up too!

Meri has a few!!
Did Reyna just say Ho shoes? I believe that's an affimitive! I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't read it myself

Did Reyna just call you a Ho? Oh shit!! I think she did

Are you going to just sit there and take that? I think Reyna could kick my ass... are you going to back me up Meri?

Does Reyna know that Ho Shoes is my new favorite phrase? I dunno! Imma gonna asks hur bout dat!

Do you both know that I love you? Awe shucks!!!

Did YOU know

That it! You guys let me off easy this week.
Happy Friday!!!

A Note From the Dentist...

2011-07-28T22:44:00.002-04:00

My kids are growing up(sigh), so last time I was at the dentist I talk to my hygienist about transitioning the kids from pediatric to an "adult" dentist. I really didn't feel like their teeth were getting cleaned all that well.

Of course the obvious question is "what age is good?" She said it depends on the kid. Are they scared easily, do they sit, etc...

My other big question was "Whats the difference between a pediatric dentist and an adult dentist?" She said MOST pediatric dentists DO NOT employ actual hygienists... they only have assistants. Dental assistants can't clean teeth... they can only brush them.

Well THAT explains a little.

So I decided to go ahead and switch them. Leighanna is for sure able to step us and I feel that with all the late night juice and such... a good cleaning for Justin was in order.

Anywho... today was the day.

Both kids(and mom) did great! No cavities for any of us :) I did ask what I could do to try and help avoid cavities due to the late night juice. They told me that I should have him drink a little water to avoid the sugary drink sitting on his teeth. Good point! Now lets see if I can remember that in my late night half asleep drive by juicing.

In six months... we get to do it all over again :)

Wazzup Wednesday...

2011-07-27T22:59:00.002-04:00

WAZZUP!?!?! It's been while since I've done a Wazzup Wednesday post. Probably has something to do with never knowing what day it is.

Lots of things going on...

Be sure to get your nominations in for "Best of the Betes Blogs". You only have until midnight tomorrow(7/28).

Hallie is working on a "Faces of Diabetes Project" that sounds awesome :) If you hurry, you might still have time to send in your pic.

There is also a giveaway happening right now at The Princess and the Pump. Hurry, you have until Sunday July 31st to enter.

Kim over at Texting My Pancreas has started to choose random featured videos for the You Can Do This Project. Be sure to check back daily to see who's next.

Before I forget... Happy Birthday to Insulin!

Looking for a fun way to support a cure? Stop by and read sweet Lizzy's story at Cranes for a Cure. She has already reached 49% of her goal. Lets help her get to 100%. After all, its for a GREAT cause.

NINE more days until August 5th!!! Do YOU know what happens on August 5th?

THE Ice Cream Social!!!! Hottest event in the D.O.C!

Four more days of NaBloPoMo in July. Yes, I'm starting to count down the days.

I think that's it. I hope I didn't miss anything.

Happy Wednesday!

Ice Cream Social...

2011-07-26T23:45:00.000-04:00

Have you heard?

It involves ice cream :)

Are you in?

I'm in! And so are 1,231 others... SO FAR.

It's an Ice Cream Social and EVERYONE is invited.

Here are the details copied from Facebook(Oh, the trouble you can get into on Facebook)...

Yes, we CAN have ice cream! In protest to Wendell Fowler's disgusting article demoralizing, and putting down diabetics of all types, wrongly spreading misinformation about what we can, and cannot eat... And telling us that we are like alcoholics, who should not be offered ice cream.

I want to cast the net for this event, as far and wide, as possible... If those people ...can have their 15 minutes of fame, so can we. So if you folks have people you want to invite, please do. We have two weeks to recruit and spread the word, spread awareness, and get attention for our cause, with a passion. I am excited and proud of all of you who have already decided to participate. :)

This event is meant to showcase that we can LIVE, as Diabetics, and enjoy ourselves... That we do not have limits on life, and that we can live within our boundaries of moderation, education, and common sense. CELEBRATE your life every day... And laugh in the face of ignorance.

Here's Mr. Fowler's original article: http://www.ss-times.com/2011/07/15/pandering-to-diabetics-you-bet/

Here's his flawed, copped out apology, at the same time as telling us that sugar is poison:
http://www.ss-times.com/2011/07/22/trying-to-find-common-ground/

And here's his editor's even crappier apology:

http://www.ss-times.com/2011/07/22/opening-the-diabetes-discussion/

Have low carb ice cream, if you want... But please, share with EVERYONE! Invite all. :)

Feel free to add any pictures or video, or links, which are related to this event.

(Just to clarify... With this event, I am not advocating that you go eat more ice cream than you can handle, or than can fit with your dietary standards. Any person is welcome to eat a sensible portion, and if needed, bolus accordingly. :) )

Feel free to join our group, and share with friends. We're a relaxed group, we don't tolerate spamming or advertising sales for miracle crap products, or abuse of any kind. Just a place to have a conversation. :)
http://www.facebook.com/groups/livingwithdiabetes

WARNING: Please note that abusive arguing, or spam of any kind, or even the mere suggestion of "contact me for blah blah," or whatever miracle product you might want to sell us will get you banned IMMEDIATELY. No ifs, ands, or buts.

Hope you will join us !

I'm a LUCKY DUCK!!

2011-07-25T22:21:00.000-04:00

This post is WAY overdue!

One upon a time there was not one, but two sweet giveaways... one from a Princess and one from a Superhero.

In a place FAR FAR away was me who signed up to win and won both. YES, BOTH!

So now we have Sugar Free ring pops a plenty :)

Thank you to Hallie, Laura and Ring Pop for putting a huge smile on my kids face.

With my girl...

2011-07-24T19:47:00.000-04:00

We continue this blogging break to spend the day with my girl. We did a whole lot of damage at the mall and now were worn out!

Happy Sunday :)

National Blog Posting Month
Day 24

Getting caught up...

2011-07-23T21:36:00.000-04:00

To learn more about NaBloPoMo... go HERE

Day twenty three of National Blog Posting Month... eight days to go.

We all know how hard it is to keep up with our blog reading. I am sure it doesn't help when you have the crazies like myself, Amy, Heather and Wendy posting e.v.e.r.y.d.a.y for NaBloPoMo!

No worries... it will all be over soon :)

In the mean time... I am going to give you a day off from me. Yep! No long post today filled with stripper shoes and bedroom scenes. However, if thats what your looking for... check out any of the Five Question Fridays.

Happy Saturday!

Five Question Friday...

2011-07-22T22:49:00.002-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 22

To learn more about 5QF go HERE

Hello!!! Are you ready for another round of 5QF?

1. If your husband had the BIG V and you got pregnant what would your first reaction be? For the dudes, what would your first reaction be if your wife told you she was pregnant after the Big V?

What the FUUUUHHHHK?!?!?!?!
Actually, I have a story. When Anthony had his "big V" done, Dr. Leffy(<--real name) gave him some advice. He said, "If your wife suddenly becomes pregnant... don't shoot her right away because this isn't 100%".

Ah! Thanks Dr. Leffy! BUT SERIOUSLY, WTF?

2. Best memory about this summer so far.

Summers are always good. No schedules(well, except that whole new job thing I've got going on). We've spent a long weekend at the beach and we hung out with Hallie. We haven't done anything to "vacation"y" yet.

Easy peasy summers are my fave!!

Tonight though; Leighanna acquired a new nickname. "Scara" as in mascara! Yeah, we were sitting at dinner and Mr. "not as blind as me" eagle eye daddy says are you wearing make up? I thought Scara was going to die! She was so busted. I think I need to start hiding my make up. Who needs a locking alcohol cabinet with an 11 year old girl around?

3. How often do you change your sheets? Your kids sheets?

Now were getting to the down and dirty stuff!

I would love to tell you that I change them every Sunday, religiously. BUT... its more like every other... Usually! *She hangs her head in shame*

4. Having just gone through TSA, would you rather have a full-body scan or a pat-down?

In truth, neither! But if I have to choose... Feel me up BA-BAY!!! I'll make sure I shave my legs for ya.

5. Since it is fair time...what's your favorite fair (county or state) memory?

It's fair time? Dude, our fair is in February. The carney's don't live real far away from me so that's... well, I don't know what that it.

Now hold on a minute while I go dig out the "extras" from last week(Que Jeopardy music plz)...

Nicole wanted to know "How in the hell did I miss this question and answer section last week?" - Gosh Nic... If I knew I would probably rule the world with all my ashwum(<-- is that how that's spelled Amy?) abilities.

Denise is interested in tattoos and naked bedrooms.
"the bedroom scene" was found at http://www.glitter-graphics.com/. That's where I find most of my fun lil stuff.

Tattoo's... I have had three tattoos. One was a cover up leaving me two... technicality. Both are on my back. I do want one more on my foot, but I haven't found the right saying yet. I would like it to relate to walking/supporting D. Or some kind of sentimental shit like that.

Ideas dropped in the suggestion box would be great!

Amy says: I consider you my friend. If you EVER see him with Misty and those stripper shoes you'd better tell me!

YOU.BETCHA!!! I would be honored to be shot by you.

When do you apply the body glitter? That would be during rub down number two ;)

Who let's their hubby TOUCH them earlier than 6 months post-partum? That would be THIS dumb ass! That explains the reason for the big V as soon as Justin was born.

Liar. You are drunk right now and will be begging for hangover remedies on Facebook tomorrow ;)

I was so not lying! This week however, I found a really good drink at The Green Iguana". I had a couple at dinner... this would explain my worse than usual grammar and possibly the dancing in the car on the way home.

Really? I didn't ask any questions? I must have been drunk ;) WELL, THAT explains A LOT!

Hallie: See above!

Love you too Wendy!

Reyna asks: AND... how about the shoes??? Do you shower with them on? I wish I could have that kind of balance... we could get some fun use out of that vasectomy.

The one and only Alexis asks: What tats do you have and where? I have one on my shoulder that is two flowers and some leaves. Then there is one on my lower back... vine kinda thing also with flowers. I would love to add to or revamp the one on my lower back. Foot first though :)

OOOH! I bet you can give me some good ideas :)

And have you danced in said shoes? Yep! Dancing in stripper shoes... check!

Meri, ummmm...seriously. What is the difference between assier and a$$ier, because from where I sit...it is just semantics.
Question number 2...did I use semantics right?

Dear Meri! I might have to answer this one when I have the ability to look up that word... see mention of Green Iguana above.

Misty said... Lora, Lora, Lora! You DID NOT just rat me out on the shoes AND the tat did you?? Ahhh!

I told you not to let me get proof! But no worries... Hallie took the heat.

I think that's it... is THAT all you've got?

Happy Friday!!

*Is thankful for spell check on this one!*

DSMA Blog Carnival... July

2011-07-21T23:00:00.001-04:00

This month we are going to revisit the DSMA chat from June 29th – Medical Devices.

Over the years diabetes technology has come a very long way from the days when syringes were boiled and sharpened, and sugar was checked using droplets of urine and fizzy tablets in test tubes. Today we can choose from an array of blood sugar meters, insulin pumps, carb counting apps, data uploading programs – technology is woven into our diabetes lives. But although technology has come a long way there is always room for improvement, right? So this month give us your complaints, your ideas and your technological wishes and tell us:

This one was pretty easy for me... I simply want the accuracy to improve. I shouldn't check my child's blood with the same meter, twice, within a minute of each other and get numbers that are 100 points off. Maybe if the meters were more accurate, we could avoid some lows.

Help with that would be great! Thanks :)

What improvements or adjustments would you make to current [diabetes] technology?
This post is my July entry in the DSMA Blog Carnival. If you’d like to participate too, you can get all of the information at http://diabetessocmed.com/2011/july-dsma-blog-carnival/

Update...

2011-07-20T23:33:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 20

I just realized that I never updated anyone about Justin's seizures... shame on me.

I went back today and read that post. The one that shared the Epilepsy diagnosis. I cried!
I cried even more when I read the comments again.

You guys are so awesome... but you still made me cry!

Anyway... its been about 3 1/2 months since Justin was diagnosed with Absent Seizures. Would you believe that we are JUST NOW getting the medication straightened out? We picked up our first increased prescription today.

We have been given three... he has taken two of them.

Medication #1: Zarontin- Justin was only on Zarontin for about 11(ish) days because he ended up having a severe reaction to it. What started out as "noticeable mood changes and not sleeping well"; turned into severe stomach pain and vomiting.
The day I decided to stop the medication I took him to his pediatrician... I had him checked out head to toe. Had blood work done and made sure there was nothing else to blame this on before I called the neurologist and said that's enough. That morning was the last dose he had. I watched my son double over in pain for a few more days while the medication worked its way out of his system. He didn't even want to play... not even the PlayStation. He also missed 4 days of school.

Medication #2: Lamictal XR - HELL NO!!! When the office called me about the new medication, they said we would need to come pick up a "starter kit". She said she was going to put the directions on it along with some things to look for. Okay!

Anthony drove out there. When I came home from work I started checking out this medication. I was instantly worried that it would take FIVE WEEKS to wean Justin onto it. FIVE! WEAN! FIVE?!
Wean to the point of only take half the dose every other day for the first two weeks.

I called the pharmacist.

I asked her if it takes 5 weeks to wean on... how long before he can get off in the event of another reaction. Yeah! 5 weeks.

The other issue was that it is known to cause a severe rash. As rash that could "cause hospitalization and in some cases death". I was to call at the "first sign" of any rash. There were other concerns... and in the end, my gut said not to do it.

Of course, that was on a Friday. I had to wait until Monday morning, but I called back and told them to give us something else.

Medication #3: Depakote- This is what he "usually" prescribes for this kind of seizure, but one of the side effects is rapid weight gain. The doctor didn't want me to have to deal with Justin gaining a ton of weight because of Diabetes. When I asked "how much"... he said "like 10 pounds in a month".

When it came down to it I said, "I will take my chances with the weight".

We've been on the Depakote for about two months now. We recently had to increase the dose because Justin was still having seizures. So far there has been no bad reaction and the increase seems to be working. Thank God!

As for me... I'm trying to plant that smile. I am okay if I don't talk about it. I am okay if I don't tell you the story about the mall parking lot. I am okay if I don't tell you about taking pictures(flash bulbs) over spring break . I am okay if I don't think about it at all.

Kind of in an "avoidance" stage, I guess. I have pushed it so far to the back of my mind that I forget its there until its time to take the medicine or he has a seizure.

I know it could be worse... but he is MY baby and it hurts when he is faces with these challenges.

Here's to no more surprises; and if there are... please let me coincidentally have another bottle of wine. Then again, I might need something a little stronger if anything else sneaks up on me.

Happy Wednesday

Tasty Tuesday...Dessert Pizza

2011-07-19T21:07:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 19

You asked for it... (HERE in case you don't remember)

The recipe to the Strawberry Pizza.

Now, I thought about running up to the store and buying the stuff to make said pizza, but then I would eat it. And since I JUST started dieting again after I fell off the wagon a few weeks ago(and ate amuck, btw!) I decided that I could not partake in such temptation.

Because I am putting my "I will not break my diet" foot down(at least for today)... you will have to settle for pictures from Google(which made it REALLY hard not to go with plan A... just so you know).

You will need:
Strawberries(about 2 quarts cut into 1/2 or 1/4)
Pillsbury Pies crust
8oz cream cheese(softened)
Powdered Sugar(1cup-ish)
Cool Whip(1cup-ish)
Marzetti's Strawberry Glaze

Topping:

-Combine strawberries and Marzetti's glaze. Put in fridge to chill.

The crust:

-Preheat oven(whatever it says on box)-Unroll one sheet of the pie crust and place it on a round cookie sheet. I use about 1/2 of the other roll and piece them together to make my crust the same size as the pan.

Google Pic.. mine does not look that uniform

-Pinch(or roll up) the edges
-Bake (according to the directions on the box)
-Let cool completely

Center:
-Beat together...
cream cheese and powdered sugar then add cool whip and mix. *the recipe call for 1cup each, but I usually add in a little extra... to taste.

Assemble:

When crust cools...
-Spread cream cheese mixture on top
-Top with strawberry mixture
-Chill and serve

On a side note... if you come visit me I would be more than happy to just make it FOR YOU :)
Happy Tuesday!

MONDAY MEME...

2011-07-18T17:37:00.001-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 18

To learn more about NaBloPoMo... click HERE

This is a fun little alphabet meme that I stole from Pam @ Wicked Sweet who stole it from Hannah @ Dorkabetic.

I thought FOR SURE you would wanna know more about me?? If there's anything else you wanna know... don't forget to leave your question in the comments section HERE.

Age: 29(ish) What?? A girl never tells her real age. Except me, cuz I'm only 29... ish.

Bed size: Queen but it needs to be bigger.

Chore you dislike: laundry... HATE IT!

Dogs: Love them! Seriously, how can you not love this face...

Essential start to your day: I'd like to say coffee, but I have given it up in the name of loosing a few lbs's. Maybe that's why I'm a bit of a "B" in the mornings lately?!?!

Favorite color: Black

Gold or silver: White gold and silver

Height: 5’6" but it really depends on the shoes.

Instruments you play(ed): In 5th grade I played the violin. Is that nerdy?

Job title: Executive Administrative Assistant

Kids: Two... and that is plenty

Live: Florida the always rainy in the afternoon state.

Mom’s name: Nancy

Nicknames: Lovely Lora or Lora isn't lovely if people didn't like me :/

Overnight hospital stays: -I was in the hospital for a few weeks before Leighanna was born.
-a couple days for a surgery.
-and of course to have Justin

Pet Peeves: Being "beckoned" from across the house as if I'm suppose to come running like a dog.
-Smacking... as in your gum or food
-Leaving the cabinet doors open
-Treating me as if I am just a stupid woman.
(sounds like I have anger issues... yikes!)
Quote from a movie: “Around here, however, we don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things… and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” ~Walt Disney(Meet the Robinson's)

Righty or Lefty: Mostly right, but I am actually ambidextrous. Didn't know that about me did ya?

Siblings: No - one is fun!

Time you wake up: On work/school days... 6am

Underwear: Fo Sho!! Commando is not my thing. CYA people!

Vegetables you don’t like: I think I like them all

What makes you run late: Picking out my clothes... and my husband always in my way. Double on that last one.

X-Rays you’ve had: Fractured knee, sinus issues... heck, I don't know, I can hardly remember what happened yesterday.

Yummy food you make: Strawberry Pizza

Zoo animal favorite: Monkeys... I just wanna hug em.

Five Question Friday... on Sunday

2011-07-17T22:30:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... Day 17

To learn more about 5QF click HERE

This weeks questions...
1. If you knew your best friend's spouse was cheating on her or him, would you tell her (him)?
This is a tough one. I would like to say yes, but I know it would be at the expense of our friendship. We like to say "don't shoot the messenger", but we always do. I'm not sure what I would do (scratching head and making scrunchie face).

2. Soda in a can or a bottle? I prefer it in a route 44 Styrofoam cup with rabbit turd ice from Sonic plz.

3. What do you wash first, hair or body?
Body... hair and then body again. I'm weird!

4. What advice would you give to any new mama? Don't have with your husband(or anyone else for that matter) to soon unless you want another--> Just sayin!

5. What is your best hangover remedy?
It's been a while... I dunno, lots of Excedrin?

And the extras you asked for last week...

Meri asked - "Aren't our computers considered our children?" Yes, they are. And in my case they rank above the children since I'm grabbing my pride and joy in the fire while the little people find their own way out.

Denise asked - "How in the hell do you walk in those shoes?" (seriously, she said "hell") Well, Denise... I don't cuz THOSE shoes are not actually mine.

BUT I could rock those shoes if they were.

Sara asked- "How in the heck to you wear those shoes?" And then she didn't wanna know. If you dare Sara... you can find the answer above.

Amy, Amy, Amy. What? No questions?

Misty asked a couple questions - 1. "Where can I get a pair just like those?" ;) And "Where did ya get that cool tat?" Haha! Just so you know... Misty is saying "haha" because she knows where I got that pic. It's her I took it when we met in Orlando a few months ago.

2. "What's wrong with cow tipping?" Nothing... just don't try and do it in those shoes.

Wendy also wanted to know about my "hottie heels". Maybe I need to post some picks of my real stripper shoes?? Wendy also wanted to talk tattoos. As in, do I have a tattoo? Yes, I do... just not on my ankle.

Hallie asked: why are you posting pics of the shoes I wore to the pool when we visited on your blog?!? Hallie, stop trying to cover for Misty... her readers would have found out eventually.

Laura - Those shoes are not appropriate for the hospital. Just sayin! I love ya and I am sending you and "little stinker" my love.

Lex - On my way twin!

Reyna asked - how does Meri NOT know the dif between Assier and A$$ier...??? I was wondering the same thing. I think a night out with us "creative keystrokers" would do her some good.

Heather - Dude! Do you take advantage of the shop and load service at your stores?

That was all from last week... I dare ya to ask me something! I just might answer it.

Happy Sunday!

Where am I now...

2011-07-16T21:05:00.000-04:00

Its been a long week. Not because of Diabetes... though D always has its place in the mix. I have a lot on my mind... things weighing on me and keeping me up at night. I didn't think it was possible to get LESS sleep, but it is. I hope to talk about some of it soon... it would be nice to get it out.

I have to warn you... this post is kinda like a pinball bouncing around the play field of the machine. One minute I'll be slingshot-ing out of the gate and the next I'm bouncing between the bumpers. It might be hard to keep up... just sayin.

So back to Thursday's post... you kinda have to start there to know where this one is coming from and if your still confused... go read Wendy's post.

July 2010 seems like it was so long ago. I pondered all day yesterday, today and even as I write this post; trying to get a good idea of what step I'm REALLY on a year later. Some days its hard to tell.

I still see a trace of that robot... maybe that part will never go away. I also see acceptance and a minimal side of the "just a mom" in me (I think pumping has helped with that). I still have the fear, though its not front and center anymore. I was having a hard time trying to explain where my fear was... then I read Reyna's blog this morning(the only blog I have read so far today... fate). And there it was; tears filled my eyes and "same" touched my core...

"Always, in the back of my mind...in the periphery of my conscious, I half expect no response..."

THAT! RIGHT THERE! I am ALWAYS waiting for it. Waiting for something to happen. Waiting for the day I blink my eyes and the nightmare becomes reality. Do I do this so that it won't hit me so hard if that day comes? I don't know, its an interesting theory.

I don't want you to think I've gone backwards down the steps... I haven't. I have come a long way. I find that I fear more, think more and things affect me more when I am overly tired.

I have started to smile again... sincerely. I have learned to hold that smile on my face. It doesn't come as naturally as it use to and keeping it there is not without effort, but it IS getting easier. Someone in the building I work in said to me "your always smiling". I haven't heard that in a long time. I like to think that one day, being "the girl who always smiles" will be effortless again. There is hope.

I think this summer, I may have some old fears resurfacing. The fear of the unknown can be a bitch sometimes. Thing is... Leighanna will be going to middle school this year and will no longer be on the bus or come home in the afternoon with Justin. Top that with the fact that going back to work full time is drawing closer and closer to reality and you have one stressed out mama.

I have accepted what D has thrown at me and I don't dwell on it anymore. I am not even mad at it. I don't stress over numbers and they don't make or break me... though they might smack me around on occasion. If we decide to stop for a treat and his numbers are a little high for ice cream comfort... I secretly grit my teeth, rage bolus and let him enjoy. After all, he IS a kid and sometimes I am just a mom.

Acceptance does not equal comfortable... I refuse to get to comfortable. I don't feel that comfortable is a safe place to be because that is when something else will strike "Always, in the back of my mind...in the periphery of my conscious".

Keep in mind that I am also coming out of the shadows of the Epilepsy diagnosis. We are just getting the meds straight and that one knocked me back a few steps. Not as much as diabetes, but enough to leave a mark.

Next month, my blog will be two years old. WOW! I can't believe it has been that long. I can honestly say that this blog is the reason I am functioning today. And I AM FUNCTIONING. It brought me out of my fog and together with you. Blogging isn't for everybody. At one time, it wasn't for me either, but it has turned out to be the path I needed to take and the path I will continue to follow. I need it.

tired...

2011-07-15T23:10:00.000-04:00

It has come to this... falling asleep at the computer.
I know I told you that I would tell you where I am now, but I don't think I can finish it. It has come to this... I am THAT exhausted.

I promise that I have started the post and I will work on it bright and early as soon as I get some sleep. I need some sleep to function :)

F-u-n-c-t-i-o-n... a repost.

2011-07-14T23:30:00.003-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 14

Today, NaBloPoMo suggested I talk about how I like my coffee. But unless your planning on coming to visit me and stopping by Starbucks to picking up a Vente White Chocolate Mocha add one sweet and low... you probably don't need to know about my coffee.

Instead, I decided to look back at my posts from July of 2010 to see where I was back then... Below is a post I wrote on July 8th... tune in tomorrow to see where I am today.

***************************

Flashback to July 2010...

After reading Meri's post about "staying out of the loony bin"; all kinds of thoughts started running through my mind. As I was finishing up what turned out to be the longest comment EVER... I decided to blog it instead.

There has probably been a few posts lately to credit this inspiration... Wendy talked about "steps" ... the time after your childs diagnoses where you go through all kinds of different stages.

These stages take years for a lot of us. And even when we think we are past one stage of the game and into the next... something happens to take us back a few paces. That seems to happen to me all the time.
We are 1 year and 8 1/2 months into playing the game. I would like to think I have accepted life as I now know it, but I don't think I can honestly say I have. I know I am not in denial... I never went through that stage because D never crossed my mind before the day he was diagnosed. When I found out... I went right into shock and stayed there for a heck of a long time, only peeking out for the occasional bout of anger. Like Wendy said... "I felt like time in MY world had stopped, but the rest of the world kept moving". I plead for someone to make me understand why. Why is this happening. What did I do wrong and why is he paying for it. I don't do that to much anymore... I've decided it's not for me to know why. So I have decided to search for my purpose in all this instead (more on that later).
I skipped around the steps a bit compared to Wendy... I am sure we all have our own order depending on how we rolled the dice and what chance card we happen to draw.
For me... the next to set in was grief and the feeling of being alone. I was numb, I felt alone in my own family- my own house even. I felt alone in my fears. This was my fog.

About ten months after Justin's diagnosis... a blog was born... I was in search of something to sink my head into. Originally I started a craft blog thinking that it would be my hiding spot. My break from my aching mind. Then I came across another D mom's blog... I THINK it was Jill's. It was then I decided that I had a whole lot more to say about my life dealing with diabetes than I did about a hobby. Don't get me wrong... I LOVE doing paper crafting, scrap booking, card making etc... but my mind was so consumed within the thick walls of my fog that I couldn't see through it for anything else anyways.

After a few posts... I started getting comments. Maybe because I was mustering up the strength to make comments on the blogs I started following. This is when the fog started to lift. The encouragement, understanding and support from others was more than I would have ever thought it to be. Eventually, it was clear enough for me to find the path and the strength to pull me out of my murky haze. I guess this is when I started to heal and feel connected. It's like I wasn't lost anymore with nowhere and no one to ask for directions.

So where am I now?? (July 2010)

I would have to say I am in a combination of the stages... Robotic at times (more than I would like to be).

Still in search of my purpose and Just TRYING to function.

I am still heartbroken and scared. Fearful of his future and if he will wake up every morning to have one. We had 3(yes, THREE) juices in the middle of the night last night. Between midnight and 5am. Our lowest point... 41. *sigh* I don't even get scared at the 40's anymore... the scary part is that I won't wake up and I will miss a low one day. Because we all know to well that it only take ONE TIME to make our worst nightmare a reality.

Like Meri... I hope that I can live one day, I hope that I can find a way to relax and just be a mom...

I hope that I can find a way to really function.

This Ones Short and Sweet...

2011-07-13T20:47:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 13

I have a few posts that I REALLY need to get out, but I am going to take the night off to hang with my favorite 11 year old. We're gonna curl up on the couch and watch a movie.

In the mean time... you can head over to Shannon's blog at The New Normal Life and check out her giveaway. Except I want it... so if you win... please send it to me :)

Happy Wednesday!

My 12 of 12...

2011-07-12T21:48:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... Day 12

On the 12th day of each month bloggers from all over the

world take 12 photos of their day. Though I learned about

12 of 12 courtesy of Mike; the 12 of 12 project was

Chad's idea, you can go to his website to see the links

of all the people who participated this month.

Breakfast

You can say hi to Jen by clicking HERE

One word... shower!

Justin - messing up all my hard work.

The bins that I've emptied in the last couple days

This is where some of the crap went

This is some of the crap that didn't make the cut

We also cleaned out the closet and draws

The almost finished product

Oakley is not a big fan of Mr. Rooster

We had to make a pit stop to the supply closet

Ending the day working on my 12

Happy Tuesday

Dive In or Acclimate...

2011-07-11T18:43:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 11

Click HERE to learn more about NaBloPoMo

Today's prompt: Do you like to dive into things or take your time getting acclimated?

Head first baby! I dive right in. I am one of those "go for it and if I screw it up then I go back and look at the directions" kind of gals.

The hubbs says "I know just enough to be dangerous". Yep! That's me :) Grab the hammer and get to work!

Extra screws... usually!

Head scratchin and language not suitable for Sunday... always!

But we're not talking about THAT. We're talking about diving in.

When it came to fixing the kitchen faucet... my git-er-done personality didn't work out so well(except I did get a new faucet). But when it comes to Type One... do we really have a choice?

It takes months to get "acclimated"(if there is such a thing). Do we have months? I'm thinking no. Yet, it is probably the one area in our lives that required the most acclimation.

Justin's diagnosis was definitely one situation when my "dive right in" personality had me torn. I was forced to listen to that little voice in my head. No, not the one that makes me look nuts. I'm talking about the one that makes me think twice, second guess every choice I make and worry that I will choose wrong.

After all... Justin can't be replaced at Home Depot like the faucet.

T1D comes into our lives and changes everything. It changes the way we handle things and it doesn't give us a choice in the matter.

That's just how it rolls.

So what do you do? Dive or acclimate?

Oh the Fun???

2011-07-10T20:34:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 10

This ones going to be short and sweet. I have been knee deep in Lego's and Nerf guns for two days... TWO!

When we decided to build Justin the loft bed, we didn't take into consideration that were were going to loose the storage space under his bed. Originally, he had a draw trundle under there, but as he got older and became a collector of every building toy imaginable... we decided to ditch the trundle and use the space for buckets 'o' toys.

This worked well.

So when the loft bed came along... we had no where to put the buckets and they have been a big stacked mess ever since. This is what happens when you don't think things all the way through.

Lesson 1... it is a pain in the ass to check blood in the middle of the night when you have to climb a step ladder.

Lesson 2... know what your going to do with the shit under the bed first.

I digress.

Anywho... this has been a topic in our house for some time and Anthony decided that "we" were going to fix it this weekend.

Saturday morning we headed out to Ikea for some form of shelving unit. I love Ikea

We picked up a shelf/bookcase type thing that could house 8 bins. We also grabbed 8 bins in case the ones we already had didn't fit(good thing... we ended up needing them).

When we got home we emptied EVERYTHING but the furniture out of Justin's room.

Exhibit A

Yes, that IS his crap all over the table.
Yes, that IS his tree
Yes, that IS him sitting in the middle of the mess p-l-a-y-i-n-g!

No, that is NOT all of it!!!

Justin's new shelf minus the bins.

At this point I have gone through and purged all of the old bins. Holy Lego's people!!! If anyone else buys this kid another Lego set for Christmas or his birthday... he's going to live with THEM!

I still have a crap load of stuff in my living room and dining room and I can hear the Lego's stirring around in there. I think I'm starting to get a twitch.

Happy Sunday!

From the Mouth of Yours Truly...

2011-07-09T09:04:00.001-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 9

Its been a while, but I finally have a few things to share.
Here are some of the things that MAY or MAY NOT have come out of my mouth lately.

**This ones a little brutal... you have been warned!

-How about a little Stevie B... that might be a little bit more your speed.

-I'm currently experiencing technical difficulties... meaning I don't give a shit.

-Your talking a good game, HOWEVER, if you keep it up... the ONLY "ass" your gonna get, is when your finger rips through the toilet paper.

-You got that attitude and stubbornness from me... and FYI- I have WAY more experience so you might want to cut it out.

-I'm always on my best behavior... its just that my best behavior isn't very good.

-Never underestimate the power of a hissy fit.

-I still have accident forgiveness so don't think I wont run you over.

-Every conversation is more fun if you start with a dirty mind

-He also eats underwear, so I'm not sure I would take that as a compliment.

What's come out of your mouth lately?

Five Question Friday...

2011-07-08T16:24:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 8

Click HERE to learn more about NaBloPoMo

To lighten things up a bit... how about another round of "Five Question Friday"

Click HERE to learn more about Five Question Friday

1. Do you think cursive writing is overrated? (Schools in Indiana have now voted to take teaching cursive writing out of their curriculum.)

Well shit... Lets just vote to skip school all together. We keep taking the basics out of the curriculum. At this point... the kids behind the register at all the fast food places can't count back simple change. Some teachers are eliminating spelling tests and they are not required to teach multiplication. What's next?

Ya know... I learndid all doze things and I turndid out jist fine!

2. Do you still use a pocket calendar or notepad or do you keep your info on your smart phone?

I plaster my crap all over the place. In my phone, on the wall calendar, I leave notes all over the house with things to do. However, if its not on the fridge calendar... I wont be there. I can't seem to follow the calendar on the phone. Maybe its the old lady in me.

3. What 3 things would you save if your house was burning down? (family & pets are already safe)

1. My computer(for serious! Who gives a shit about the kids... they can run).

2. Photos - the ones that came before digital cameras can't be replaced.

3. My grandmothers stemware - Some belonged to my great-great grandmother and some were my great-grandmothers. It would break my heart to loose them.

4. Country Mouse or City Mouse, err Person?

Can I split the difference? I do not care for the craziness of the city. But I also like to live close to stuff. This is how we roll now... not in the middle of it all, but close enough that cow tipping is NOT our only form of entertainment.

5. If you could pick ANY reality show to go on, which would you pick?

*scratches head*
*ques Jeopardy music*
*has total blond moment*
*turns to google... searches top 10 reality shows*

Survivor - YUCK but I would loose lots of weight.
The Bachelor - already married
Flavor of Love - hellz no even if I wasn't married.
The Apprentice - do-able
America's Next Top Model - Not even 20 yrs ago
Extreme Makeover - ooo! Then maybe I could do the above
The Biggest Looser - Probably need it
The Amazing Race - I think I can... I think I can
The Hills - like... no way!
John & Kate plus 8 - am I Kate, one of the 8 or the nanny? Either way, I'm thinking no.

Survey says... Extreme Makeover

And just because I said I would answer them... there was a few questions in the comments last week.

Alexis wanted to know when you would see a pic of me in my stripper shoes... here you go twin

Meri wanted to know the difference between "assier" and "a$$ier".
Well Meri... that would be the dollar signs :)

And Amy wanted to know who in the world gets their groceries delivered... Beats the fuzz out of me Amy.

Anything else you wanna know??
Happy Friday!

Swimming Strong...

2011-07-07T19:45:00.001-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 7

Click here to learn more about NaBloPoMo

Today's prompt is... "Do you consider yourself a strong swimmer?".

I have wrote about strength in one form or another several times. My strength seems to be one of the things I question a lot thanks to the challenges of the past few years. Those of you that have been around a while already know I struggle with this.

Going with the theme...
I use to be a strong swimmer... Olympic! I could change direction with grace. I could breast stroke, back stroke and butterfly without a ripple in the water.

On the outside it may seem that my gifts have not faltered, but on the inside I have to think about every stroke before I make it. Its a lot more effort these days to make it across the pool and there are days I think I will drowned.

Then there are days when I just float quietly. As I drift, I think about all the races I've won. I can see it... my gift to swim and the strength with in.

Even if my mind messes with me... my strength to swim is there. I am a strong swimmer.

If only I wouldn't loose my faith in my abilities.

Today its all about the fish...

2011-07-06T12:28:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMO... day 6

Just for fun, I decided to go with today's prompt again. "What kind of fish are you most like?".

I admit, I don't know a whole lot about fish personalities so I did what any normal adult who plays on Facebook a lot would do... I took a personality quiz. YES! It was about what type of fish I am.

Step 1: Go to Google
Step 2: Type in What kink of fish are you most like
Step 3: Choose a quiz

Let me just say in advance that I took three different quizzes. Quiz one and two both informed me I was a shark. Excuse me! I am no shark!

I liked quiz three the best... it called me a Fancy Guppy.

You're probably well-liked by the opposite gender.

You're the type that wants a happy family later in life, or already has one currently. You can range from average to absolutely brilliant, depending on the situation.

That's sounds like me. I have always been able to "hang with the boys". I have never been an prissy girl but I CAN clean up well . I play sports but love pink. I prefer jeans, but kick em with some kick ass heals. You know... that type.

Happy family... check!

And "brilliant". Why yes, yes I am thankyouverymuch!

HA! Told you I'm not a shark.

Happy hump day!

In Open Water...

2011-07-05T22:18:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 5

Today's prompt from NaBloPoMo is "Are you scared of being in open water?" I figured I would take a "dive" at this one.

My kids love to swim out to the sandbar when we go to the beach. Probably because my hubby told them you can find starfish out there(when will he ever learn?). We haven't found any starfish yet. But since I won't allow my kids to swim out there alone... I get to hang out on the sandbar too.

On the way to the sandbar the water gets deep. You can't touch and you can't see. You kind of swim blindly until all of a sudden you hit the sandbar and you can stand. As a kid, I never thought about that part. I just swam with no cares because that's where my friends were.

Now... that is all I think about.

Now... I have two kids swimming along side me and I can't touch or see.

Swimming blind.

Kinda like taking care of diabetes.

Dealing with diabetes feels a lot like swimming in open water. Some days you can't see the land. Some days the waves crash into you and force you under. And some days... the seas are calm.

As the mom of a type one, any direction I choose to swim can take me under. But the worst part... It won't take me down alone.

So I guess if I am answering honestly... I am scared of being in open water.

Happy 4th

2011-07-04T11:43:00.001-04:00

May your fireworks be shiny

May your food be grilled just right.

May you be surrounded by friends and family

on this celebrated night.

May your numbers mind their manners

May you eat the day away.

May you not forget the soldiers

when you bow your head to pray.

Happy 4th everyone!!

Five Question Friday... the Sunday Edition

2011-07-03T11:16:00.000-04:00

NaBloPoMo... Day 3

To learn more about NaBloPoMo... click Here.

Since it's Sunday I am going to make this post light and easy. I had a "from the mouth of yours truly" post almost ready, but there MIGHT be a few things in there that MIGHT not be appropriate for Sunday reading. I don't want to push my luck!

So for today I am going to follow in the footsteps of Amy from Tiny Blessings and answer the questions from Five Question Friday... except hers was on Saturday and mine is on a Sunday. Close enough right???

Click HERE to learn more about Five Question Friday.

1. If you had the opportunity to bungee jump, would you?

~~Well Hell Yeah!~~ (Keep it clean Lora) Your darn tootin I would. Why not? There was an 80 year old grandma that was on the news the other day for jumping out of a plane. I'm only ~~thirty~~... er twenty nine. I can jump out of a plane... no problemo!

2. Would you rather go to the movie theater or to the drive-in?

Theatre! If I want to sit in my car and watch a movie... I'll just tote my laptop out to the driveway. Besides... its too hard to see the movie when the windows fog up. (what? It's humid in Florida)

3. Do you have your groceries delivered?

SURE DO!!! By the hubby that is. He does the grocery shopping. I am one lucky lady!!

4. Eyebrows: Do you wax, thread, pluck, or stay au naturel?

I prefer to wax... nothing better than getting your hair ripped out with a sticky a$$ piece of paper. Actually, I'm due for a good waxing. I do pluck in between so no worries about me being "bushy".

5. Would the people you went to high school with be surprised by your life today?

I don't know. Probably not. I don't think I've done/or haven't done anything unexpected. I don't even think I've changed a lot. Older... yes! Smart a$$ier(not thinking that's a real word)... absolutely! Less tolerant... you betcha! But overall... I am still me.

And there you go... 5 questions you didn't know you wanted the answers to.

Is there anything else you wanted to know?? I just might tell you the answer :)

Coming to terms...

2011-07-02T14:35:00.002-04:00

NaBloPoMo... day 2

Click on the pic to learn more about NaBloPoMo

When we first found out I was pregnant I was a working girl. Moving up in the company and happy in my position. I had no intention of quitting my job to become a hOuSe wIfe... uh no! Anthony had expressed his preference of me staying home, but didn't push the subject on me in any way.
Then... when I was around 29 weeks along, I got sick with Toxemia and landed in the hospital for a few weeks before they induced me just shy of my 32nd week.

Here I was... released from the hospital without my tiny, 4lb, baby girl. I had to leave her there in the NICU. No way of knowing how she was at all times. Yes, I spent lots of time there, but its not the same.

It was during that time I decided that my career wasn't so important after all. Gods way of showing me maybe??

And then I was a stay at home mom.

Justin was born 14 months later(no, not on purpose). Justin was full term, healthy and just as beautiful as his sister. Granted, during the first few weeks he was home I really did want to run away. Having a new born and a 14 month old was not easy to adjust to at first. I had Anthony neutered right after Justin was born :)

I had fallen into my new position surprisingly easy and being home turned out to be a blessing when Justin was a little over a year old. That's when all the appointments started. I don't know how I would have had time to work. We spent four days a week in a therapy office on top of neurology appointments, test after test... after test. Constant ear infections turned out to be an IGA deficiency and ear tubes(twice). This just touches the surface of it all, but is not the reason for this post so I will move on.

Once the kids started school... I found my new calling as a volunteer. I did a little to much of this, but I loved it. It kept me busy and the schedule was somewhat flexible for me to advocate for Justin's needs. I've done a whole lot of advocating over the past seven years. It was hard, stressful and probably the most important thing I've done aside from just being a mom. Again, how do working people with special needs children(diabetic included) do this?? It can become a full time position all in itself.

When the economy took a huge hit... financially, so did we. We held on in hopes that it would get better, but a significant loss in income coupled with a added need of costly medical supplies after Justin was diagnosed; faced me with the reality of going back to work. This may be hard for some people to understand, I was one of those people 12 years ago, but this was heartbreaking for me. I haven't even been able to rewrite my blogs profile info. Doing that would mean that I have to come to terms with my new reality(can you believe that is what inspired me to write this post).
I started substitute teaching in September of 2009. This was perfect. Flexible with the continuous doctor appointments. I could still volunteer and I love being at the school and in the classroom. Problem was... the pay sucks and its not steady. The other dilemma I faced was the lack of consistency. With D in the mix and with my personality(mostly with my personality) I needed more of a schedule. It was throwing me off to not know if I was working until the morning of on most days.

So when I got a call last August about a part time administrative assistant job in an accounting department(right up my alley)... I ended up taking it. They knew I was going to continue to sub and were more than willing to work with me.

I did both all last year. I came to realize that I needed the consistency of a schedule even more than I thought I did. It calmed me. Put things back in some form of order.

When summer vacation started closing in... I was faced with yet another decision. I don't work enough(only 3 days a week at this job) to make day care cost effective. Though my kids are old enough to stay home... diabetes at home alone was a different story.

In truth, I wanted to take the summer off, but I had to be honest with myself and admit that I really couldn't do that without consequences financially. As it was... I would loose the income from subbing. This was REALLY hard to face and it has taken me a long time to do it.

After lots of stressing and talking and thinking; Anthony and I decided that he would take take a day off opposite me whenever possible. His other day off is always Sunday. This meant that the kids would be left home alone two days a week for six hours a day. Scared the crap out of me from a diabetes perspective.

When the day came for me to leave them home... I was terrified. I have relied a lot on Leighanna(even more so than usual) to keep Justin in check and she is doing a great job. I couldn't ask for a better big sister than my 4lb preemie has become.

So I'm coming to terms.

I would love more than anything in the world to continue to be a stay at home mom, continue volunteering and eventually advocate for others. After all, that is where my heart is.

But reality is that I need to work. I even need to get serious about going full time and have faith that the kids will be okay with me not being at school all the time.

AND as difficult as it is... I need to update my profile info and come to terms with the path that life has taken.

Riding the Crazy Train... AGAIN!

2011-07-01T07:00:00.004-04:00

Click on the photo to learn more about NaBloPoMo

And here we go again! If you were around last November, you might remember I signed up for NaBloPoMo(National Blog Posting Month) along with a few of my favorite D-Mama's. Well... I am at it again! I just signed up to post the entire month of July. You can read more about NaBloPoMo by clicking on the photo above.

I decided to join mostly because I liked this months theme - SWIM. It's not just about swimming pools and fun in the sun. It's also about life. And I think we can all relate to "swimming" through this diabetic life. Sometimes its sink or swim, sometimes we get bit by the shark and sometimes we get swept into the current and float along.

No matter what... we have to always tell ourselves to just keep swimming.

The other reason was... its summer time and I need motivation to blog during all the craziness of the kids being home. I need to make sure I put as much effort into my blog as I do my tan. Which is looking pretty darn good by the way. Now if the sun would just come back out to play... I wouldn't go all pasty again.

OH!! Wait... I now have a third reason... I take on this challenge because Amy "demanded" I post more. You asked for it Amy! Now I expect to see you here commenting everyday :)
**This just in... Amy has decided to accept my challenge and raise me a "Ka-chow". You can read all about it here.

As for everyone else... I sure hope I don't scare you all off.

Be sure to visit Heather @ Sweet to the Soul , Amy @ Three Thirty Three and Wendy @ Candy Hearts who have decided to ride the NaBloPoMo current with me.

Happy July 1st!!!

There's Ups and Downs...

2011-06-30T12:38:00.000-04:00

I have had my share of personal struggles while dealing with Justin's long history of "challenges". I just don't always write about them.

Well, let me rephrase that... sometimes I do write them, but I don't hit the publish button. I have plenty of drafts that will not see the light of the computer screen.

I often go back a while later and read those unpublished posts as a reminder that I can survive. I did survive. So I guess they do serve some purpose.

These days... things are looking up. There's a possible solution to some struggles we have been enduring as a family. I am praying that things fall into place and make that possible. Even the possibility of this solution has returned a smile to my face, even if it proves to be temporary.

I also found a way to save money on test strips thanks to a conversation I had with Hallie the other day. Thanks Hallie!!!

And I have two great kids... but I already knew that :)

Point is... its okay to have these ups and downs. I try to remember that. It doesn't matter how long ago we were diagnosed. It doesn't matter how we look on the outside. His age doesn't matter. Diabetes can knock you on your ass quicker than Laila Ali.

I wrote the following post on April 9th - right after we found out Justin also has a form of Epilepsy.

This day was a little dark... but I survived and I will continue to survive. We all will.

****************

“The most important questions in life can never be answered

by anyone except oneself.” ~John Fowles

I never use to question my strength. I knew I was strong. I was not without challenges. Something came up... I handled it. No problem. I knew who I was and what I was capable of. I felt I could take on anything and survive.

These days I question...

I question how much more I can take. How much more I can handle. How much more will I be expected to handle.

I question how many more nights I can go without sleep.

I question how I find myself again.

I queston when I will stop being consumed with guilt and worry.

I question when the next thing will sneak up on me. Will I see it coming this time?

I question my mind. My abilities. Where my hope and spirit has gone.

I even question my faith.

****************

Hugs to all my friends. May your days be full of love and strength. And may you know you have enough of both to survive.