Monday, November 30, 2015

2467

Cold Cyber Moonday--and the shopping is easy. Doing my laundry--getting ready for the week. I had a tasty lunch at the BBQ place--pork loin, fries, beans, and garlic bread. Came back and napped for a while--then picked up a GT latte with eggnog to warm my soul. SBs was jammed with teenagers--school is back in session. Grabbed my drink and slurped it in the truck--away from the noise and energies of the younger crowds.

I dreamed last night that someone pulled up into the cul-de-sac and was dropping off a load of building materials--at 3 in the morning. I dreamed that I got up and went out and asked what the hay was going on--the driver of the truck indicated that they were trying to be quiet.

I came back inside--and went back to sleep. My FitBit device indicated that I slept fairly well last night--in bursts with some awake time between each burst.

There was another part of the dream last night--but I don't recall any of it.

Tomorrow is massage day and a dance class--although right now I only feel like I want to bundle up and sleep. The cold weather is affecting me--my medications seem to be wearing off faster as I get colder. It's supposed to warm up a bit at night over the next few days--to mid 40s instead of mid 30s. Ten degrees lighter will be welcome--to one and all.

Sunday, November 29, 2015

2468

Sunday, sort of--bright and cold. Everything seems slower today--slow and quiet. I've napped some--went out for breakfast and GT latte made with eggnog. Trying to wake up--feel like I'm fogged and logy. The coolness is affecting me--I get tremors and restless feelings as coolness pervades. The warm GT latte helped reverse some of this sensation--I also bumped the thermostat up a bit as well.

Holiday shifting taking place--neighbors are putting up their Xmas decorations, in mass. Happy-looking elven appearing everywhere--and other variations as well. Ho, ho, ho--it's off we go!

I think I'll review and re-remember the poem Twas the Night Before Christmas--just to help train my memory buds. I usually do well on the first half--and get lost as they go down the chimney.

Daughter and fiancé are busy helping keep the GNP high--they are buying a lot of gifts. I haven't gotten my pre-Xmas action going yet--maybe I'll do it in a day on Amazon like in previous years.

This weekend almost over--dance classes resume next week along with other activities and events. 2015 rolls to an ending--and 2016 appears. I generate little excitement over the shift--just another year!

Saturday, November 28, 2015

2469

Sell it until it drops Saturday--and other thanksgiving phenomena. The good news--my FitBit appliance said that I did sleep (restlessly) last night. I recall getting up a couple of times--but was out for the most part.

I took my morning medications--and went back to sleep for a few hours. Weather, as promised, was cold--30 degrees in the early morning. I put together MD's AWAD word list for the past week--and printed a copy for her. Then I went to the Indian buffet--and downed a huge plate of food.

For some reason food is tasting bland--no matter what I may be eating. This was especially so for the Chinese dinner we had a few days ago--and today's Indian food. Today, even my GT latte with eggnog was somewhat flat--heavy on the egg and light on the nog.

KK, one of the people who is a dance class regular, passed away--on Thanksgiving Day. She has had several medical episodes one the past year--and recently discovered that she had lung cancer. She went fairly quickly--there's a memorial being scheduled.

I'm just coasting along it seems--feeling logy and tired despite that FitBit says I've been sleeping. Coming and going--going and coming! I'm spinning around--never leaving the ground.

Friday, November 27, 2015

2470

Black Friday--and I was a contributor. I bought a FitBit device--and I'm swimming through the digital debris trying to grok just how it works. It's another puzzlement--one that the seemingly less sophisticated users are groking how it works while I am not.

It's magic--for sure! Amazing that such a tiny device can do so much--with the help of smartphone or computer of course. But it's all done without wires--except for charging the device's battery.

Thanksgiving is over--for which I give thanks. All quiet here on the home front--except for the loud screams I would like to make as I unpuzzle the techno-bauble.

Cold here tonight--low 30s or high 20s! Frost on the pumpkin--lost on the bumpkin.

Tomorrow is word list time--and learning more about the fitness bracelet. Oh Boy, Oh Joy!

Thursday, November 26, 2015

2471

Turkey Day--is on its weigh. Black Friday and Cyber Monday loom--go shopping for a broom. We had a small feast here in FO--BBQ ham, roasted potatoes, grilled veggies, great breads and pies. We did a brunch for lunch--and made a munch and crunch. There were only six of us--daughter, fiancé, MD, TD, SD and me.

Feasting aside--it seemed like a never-ending day. I did most things later than usual--and didn't have a nap as the day unrolled. I went around 2:30pm to grab a GT latte--and discovered that my regular SB was shut early. Fortunately (for my caffeine addiction)--the SBs at the grocery store was still operating.

It got fairly chilly last night--lawn was covered in a light frost this morning. Supposed to be even cooler tonight--will run the heater again all night like I did last night.

Watched the 2-hour Survivor's special--lots of blindsides. The person (who had an advantage) used his advantage--and it fell back on him. He was blindsided as he used his advantage--not a seemingly smart thing to have done. The weather during the several days of these episodes was brutal--people were huddling and cuddling to try and stay warm. People's feet were turned into painful sponges--as the rain kept coming.

There were a lot of shifts in how the game was played and the challenges that were presented--nearly everything so far has had some kind of double effect. The game players and the game makers have had to be really creative--they've had to adapt to where the game was going which was all over the place.

It's only Friday--it feels like Sunday or even later into the coming days. Four days with no dance classes--have to make it to the gym. My right foot had a slight relapse from Wednesday's dance class--but it's calming down even as I write. I'm glad that I booked a Trager session for next Tuesday--right before there are a restart of dance classes as December rolls around. The restart will not be sustained--the December holidays will help create the next dance class drought.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

2472

Today's brief summary of events--breakfast, dance class, pick up items for Thanksgiving, GT latte with eggnog, Chinese dinner (Shelly's here), dance demo for seniors, right foot resumed tightness, feeling tired after dance and latte.

All for now--will come back perhaps after dinner (Chinese).

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

2473

Busy day--breakfast, massage, dance class, GT Frap with eggnog, foldover sandwich, light dinner, naps, and more. Massage left me feeling great--she worked on my feet and they felt great after the session. Dancing was a bit boring--instructor is in a manic phase and was all over the map in terms of what she was doing. I'm not sure the energy spent doing that class is worthwhile--will let it ride into the new year. Some class time was spent communicating the imminent death of one of the women in the class--she has terminal lung cancer and is on the way out. Sad--but part of life.

Have class in EDH tomorrow--plus picking up some items for Turkey Day in the morning. It's early but I'm already looking forward to getting horizontal--I napped a few times today but nothing of duration.

The moon was nearly full--and floating like a giant balloon in the late afternoon sky. Sky also filled with huge clouds--plus a few intense bursts of rain.

Dancing with the Stars finished up tonight--with the two favorites winning the competition. Bindi and Dereck--this season's champions.

Well, I'm nodding off as I search for words to write--time to sleep with dreams so deep.

Monday, November 23, 2015

2474

I managed to get through to the medical insurance people today--after an hour of phone conversations. It took them a while to verify that their reference documentation was incorrect--and that my version of the documents was correct. I mailed off the form that I had--with the right information hopefully. It's a no-win for me either way--the plan does not have specific dental options like this year's version. The dental supplements are dropped--as was the price of the supplemental option.

I ate more today--and seemed to feel better overall for doing so. But I still ate light overall and at dinner--I could have used a bit more fuel. I also napped a couple of times today--and felt better for doing so.

Have a Trager session at noon tomorrow--and a dance class afterward, if I'm up to it. I only have two classes possible this week--I think I'll be better off attending, but I'll have to see how I feeling.

Heading for the bed early tonight--awaiting the start of the rain that is promised tonight/tomorrow.

My right foot got torqued sometime over the last few days--it feels better tonight. I'm hoping the Trager session will help smooth it out--if not, I'll have to skip dancing.

Sunday, November 22, 2015

2475

The weekend went by like a jet--Friday, Saturday and today seemed like they were only minutes long. But in reality (whatever that may be), it was 3 x 24 hours--a lot of time (72 hours). Will Moonday go by as quickly--or will it lengthen and expand while the clocks slow down?

Have several things pending--getting clear about insurance, researching a chimney sweep, addresses for J and F, massage appointment on Tuesday, right foot needs to be untorqued, dancing on Tuesday/Wednesday, my stuff for Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving itself, plus many other details that move me through the days--the daze.

I had breakfast this morning--and went for a GT latte for lunch. Don't know why I didn't eat something then--but I didn't and I felt punky until I had dinner. I made copies of the AWAD words for MD--and printed a copy of the medical insurance form I needed.

Tomorrow, I'll see if I can eat more--and notice what effects it has on the fogginess I'm experiencing. I should eat at least two good meals--plus a third (and possibly fourth) smaller repast. I think I'm under-eating--and running out of juice.

Laundry is done--so I'm sartorially prepared for the week. That is as long as I wear my regular uniform--jeans, tennis shoes, boxer shorts, long sleeve pull over shirt, and my fleece vest. What else is there--what else would I need?

Saturday, November 21, 2015

2476

Slow Saturday--birthday party lasted into the early morning hours. Big poker game--that netted one of the players over $100.

I was out of it when I awoke this morning--the hubbub and intensity of the party and the flood of people left me jumbled. I managed to grab a short nap in the afternoon--after I discovered that I hadn't eaten enough. I went and got a GT Frap, downed an apple and some cheese, got a sandwich from Panera's, and will eat some more for dinner. I've been thinking about getting a Bullet-like device--so I can make tasty and healthy smoothies when I need to be eating more.

Weather predictions show that some cold weather is coming--20+ degrees for Thanksgiving evening. The days leading up to the day of thanks and those beyond all promise to be chilly--if rain also happens we could have ice and snow as well.

I went to the print shop--to dump MD's AWAD words for the past week--and print out my insurance enrollment form for supplemental coverage items. The print shop was offline--the building had some kind of power failure.

2477

BH's birthday bash is over--it was chaotic but a stirring of the genetic pot as our two bloodlines come together. SZ put together a feast of various finger foods--way too much, of course, but a noble showing. I talked with two men who are related to BH--both are dealing with serious medical issues and are recently retired due to those issues. Coincidentally, both men are dancers--one more into ballroom while the other does line dancing. It was an informative discussion--I got a chance to talk about my PD issues with a third party.

Trip to dental offices was not as stressful as I anticipated--the hygienist was pleasant and caring. She still didn't make me feel like I was doing something incomplete--she spent a lot less time than the previous dental technician.

Noticing that there are statements popping up everywhere regarding no dental options being available in 2016--on specific medical plans. I downloaded a form that I have to file--to elect a supplemental rider on my plan. The supplemental options include coverage for chiropractic, acupuncture, and vision--but no dental components in the coming year.

There may be some dental elements in the body of the plan--just have to tease it out of the current noted changes that came about 2016 coverage.

I just nodded off--even as I typed. It's past midnight--so officially BH's birthday is over. But I still hear faint noises from their part of the house--perhaps an intense poker game is underway.

I've got this week's word list extracted for MD--I'll print out that list tomorrow. I'll also print the medical option form--which I'll fill out and send in to the insurance company.

The weekend begins--initiating a period of much cooler times.

Thursday, November 19, 2015

2478

Made it to dance class today--up in the hills at the Rescue location. Small dance room was crowded--with even a few people just sitting it out and observing. It's a good class--a bit more challenging than the Wednesday class although I only got there around noon. She starts the class around 10:30--doing simpler dances. The dancing felt good--I noted how much the dancing seemed to smooth out my spirit.

My daughter is busy preparing a huge amount of food and stuff for her mate's 40th birthday--which is tomorrow. She'll do a good job--but it's an overwhelming amount of stuff she'll do to make it work. She started preparing stuff yesterday--and has worked today and into this evening.

I'm pleasantly fried from the going to/from the dance class--and playing some with the grandkid. It was a no-nap day--and I feel the effects. On reflection, I don't think I ate enough--and that's contributing to my low energy and feeling like I'm fading. I had breakfast sandwich and a GT latte (with eggnog) for breakfast/lunch--then went and danced for 2+ hours. I had a couple of links of cheese and an apple--but nothing of substance after the morning meal. The feast tomorrow should help me catch up on the calories--I've lost a little weight but have mostly trimmed down from the dancing.

I have a dental appointment in the morning--I expect to get chided for letting my hygiene regime slip backwards. Losing my sessions with my previous hygienist, J, was a change that didn't help my motivation--and I let things slide some from the progress I had made with her. So it's back to the drawing board--to be mixing metaphors.

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

2479

It's getting late--and I'm fading quickly as the night comes on. Made it to dance class today--and it felt good to dance even though I was a bit logy and slow today. I'll head for dance class tomorrow--up in Rescue since there's no FO class on tap.

I discovered today that there was a dance Sunday--just no email sent saying it was taking place. Person that told me of the dance--also commented on how cold it was in the rec center. They didn't have heaters--so it was a bit chilly even when dancing.

I slept fairly well last night--the massage helped. Spent some time last night looking at info sites on Trager techniques--it was interesting, especially the fact that there are two components to the process.

There is the bodywork--and there are exercises that can be done by a person on their own.

I'm really fading right now--going to hit the bed.

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

2481-2480

Yesterday went by in a blur--I went to the PD support group meeting in Folsom. There was a fair number of people attending--I stopped on the way to get a GT latte with eggnog. I went dull at the meeting--my brain felt like it had clogged up. I tried to share some of what I'm currently doing--dance, Trager, and such. But my brain fogged--and my voice went silent. There is something about these PD group sessions that doesn't empower me--in fact it does the opposite.

I stopped and had lunch at the BBQ place--a chicken wrap with fries. I went home and muddled through the afternoon and evening--looking forward to getting a massage today.

Got a massage--a lengthy one that lasted well over an hour. I left feeling like a noodle--but I could just zone out. A window washer was scheduled to come between 2 and 4--he got here at 4, of course. It took him only 30 minutes to do the whole house--inside and out. When he finished, I slipped off to SBs for a GT latte made with eggnog. Delicious--and nutritious!

It's about dinner time--apple and cheese on the menu. I went out to lunch after the massage--went to BBQ place and scarfed up a plate of baby back ribs with fries and garlic bread. Yum--Dee dum!

The late day latte is starting to kick in--I'll do my apple and cheese sticks and settle in for the night. Should have a dance class tomorrow in EDH--and one of Thursday up in the hills as well. I'll see how it goes--I expect to sleep well tonight (Better even than last week's after massage nocturne).

Sunday, November 15, 2015

2482

Sadness in Paris--craziness takes over and leaves dozens injured or dead. Thousands of people out enjoying a balmy Friday night in Paris--encounter death and destruction, fear and confusion.

What is this world coming to--where is it going and how will it end? I've not done much of anything on this day of sorrows--went out for a sandwich and stopped on the way back at SBs and ordered a GT latte made with eggnog. Very tasty--a treat for the street!

I'm feeling adrift today--floating past everything but not engaging. I finally went to the gym--and did a light workout. Doing so helped--I feel a lot less tired and bored. I'm feeling slightly hungry--I have  a half of my lunch sandwich which I will eat for dinner.

Started raining in the middle of last night--and has continued on/off all of today. It did warm up a bit today--but still kept the heater going all the time to take off the edge of coolness that came with the moisture.

Will probably do a load of laundry--the hum-hum-hum of the dryer. Keeping it clean--with a washing machine.

I believe that I slept fairly well last night--despite having to get up several times. If so, credit goes to the naturopathic remedy that I've started taking--for leg cramps. Tomorrow is another open day--except there is a PD support group meeting in Folsom at 10am. Maybe another visit to the gym--to keep everything moving.

Saturday, November 14, 2015

2483

A sultry Saturday--slow and steady where all is ready. I had a good sleep last night--but woke up early when the coolness crept into the house. I got up and turned up the heater--it got a bit colder last night/this morning than I had thought was happening.

The promise tonight/tomorrow is rain and snow at low elevations--rainy slick highways are on the prowl. I had a big breakfast of super french toast--with banana, walnuts and caramel and some whip. Brioche french toast--like eating bread pudding. Came home and napped--got up and went for a GT latte in the mid afternoon. Dinner was apple and grapes--I probably didn't eat enough today but I'm not hungry. The breakfast nailed me down--I felt really full after imbibing that meal.

Printed out the AWAD word list for the past week--for MD. The ex showed up--she came by to touch up the kitchen ceiling work that she had started. She worked on that for several hours--and then motored her way back home. While she was painting, MD's toilet clogged and overflowed--I ended up mopping her bathroom floor and washing the towels I used to soak up the flooded waters. Fortunately, her toilet room is small--so there was not a lot of room for the water to spread.

I oscillated today between feeling relaxed about not going to be dancing as much as normal--and feeling a bit antsy over the coming non-dance days. It appears that there isn't a dance tomorrow at SS center--but it may be a blessing if the rains come as predicted.

BH blitzed the yard today--clearing the weeds and mowing the lawn. He started early in the morning--I think I heard the doorbell chime a few times around 8am. He had recruited a few relatives to help with the task--and they whacked the place into shape.

Friday, November 13, 2015

2484

Friday the 13th--and the living is easy. It's the dying that's hard to do--and there's plenty to go around.

Slept was erratic last night--went to bed early but woke up several times throughout the night. I took one of the Leg Cramp pills--and it might have helped keep things relaxed. Will try them for a spell--and see what happens.

I awoke early this morning--and ate a Florentine scramble with potatoes and a English muffin. Picked up a GT Frap made with egg nog for a late lunch--very tasty. Went to dance class--and did alright but was still a bit stiff and slow. Came home from class feeling hungry--and had some cheese and crackers, and two pieces of chicken. The chicken finally erased the hunger pangs--for dinner I'll probably have an apple and grapes.

Days without dance--the next two weeks are going to be a challenge what with the number of classes not happening. And there is the overlay of the various celebrations that are taking place--birthday, thanksgiving, plus massages and dental work. Daze without end--much time down time. Not sure if there's a dance in SS this Sunday--will get an email if it's happening but I suspect not. Las Vegas is pulling people away for the big line dance event--four days of workshops, dances, and performances.

I went to dance class via an alternate route today--one that is more direct if I start here at home. There are simply a lot less stop signs with this route--of course it only applies to one dance location but I made it in record time.

Thursday, November 12, 2015

2485

Didn't sleep last night as well as I did on Tuesday--I was up and down a lot for bathroom treks. I overslept this morning--and was a bit late for an oil change. I had a breakfast sandwich and smoothie--as the truck was being serviced. Came home and slept until it was time for class--had a Frap on the way and picked up a slice of pizza when class was over.

I did well in the class--my mobility seemed to have returned. The class is buzzing along--several people who are going to Las Vegas are amping up as they near the takeoff date. Next week--there will be a dearth of classes. Which will also be the case on the week after--Thanksgiving weekend.

BH's birthday is on the 20th--they have a big celebration planned. Tomorrow is Friday 13th--a day of good fortune for me. Have a dance class in the afternoon--most of the dances are ones that I'm familiar with.

It's early now--but I'm feeling tired. I'll watch an episode of CBS offerings--and then hit the bed if that's what I feel like doing.

Got an email today that appears to be an obvious phishing query--the note says that want to help me correct one of my accounts. I'm sure they want to do something that will incorrect things--I forwarded the message on to the spoof patrol on my account.

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

2486

I slept really well last night--the best sleep in quite a while. I give credit to the Trager session that I enjoyed--there were some other effects, but overall I had a great sleep.

I came away from the massage session feeling really tired and foggy--no doubt a result of releasing toxins in my body from the massage. It affected the dance class--I felt tired and heavy. Today, I felt good in the morning--and into the early afternoon. I went out for breakfast--and came back and napped until I felt like heading out for a GT latte. I had a big chunk of cheesecake that my daughter made--dinner was a bit of cheese, some apple and wheat crisps (and a few pieces of chocolate).

It's early still--but I'm feeling like I want to wrap up and get horizontal.

I've scheduled an oil change for in the morning--it was the only major thing not done on Sunday. I used their online reservation system--and easily booked an appointment.

It was not obvious that today was a national holiday--everything seemed to be open. MD went to the Olive Garden for a free lunch for veterans--she served in WWII in the 40s.

Weather is cold--may have had some frost last night. I picked up some leg cramp medication--suggested my the massage person, SMcD. It's a naturopathic remedy--and I'll take one dose in just a while. It's supposed to help with leg cramps--and sleeping issues associated with being awakened by leg issues. Give it a try--if it helps me sleep through that will be wonderful.

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

2487

Got a body treatment this morning--a Tui Na like and Trager like massage. The practitioner, SMcD, has a lot of experience doing bodywork--and is open to trying whatever works to ease my PD symptoms. It felt good to be back on the table once again--and to feel the release triggered by the intervention. One minor hiccup--the treatment left me really tired and I had difficulty dancing in class later in the afternoon. SMcD also suggested that I look into a naturopathic product by Hylands--for leg and foot cramping. I'll try some and see what happens--the cramping is the most active discomfort for me right now.

After the treatment, I had a hearty lunch at the BBQ place--chicken Parmesan on a bed of noodles with a slice of garlic bread. I came back home and napped for a short while--then pushed myself out the door and onto class. I had a GT latte--and also took a dose of medication between gustatory events. I felt heavy and not able to move my legs easily--I stumbled through the class but would not like to do this every time I get a treatment. Next week there is no dance class after the treatment--so I'll get a reading on what happens if I'm tired and take a long nap. I'm optimistic about adding this activity to my regime--I'm certain it can only help and do harm.

I'm curious as to how well I sleep tonight--if there is anything different going to be triggered by the bodywork. I feel as if I have undergone a purge--that a flood of toxins were flushed from my system.

Truck is running smoothly--for which I am pleased.

Several cancelled dance classes over the next 1.5 months--holidays, dance workshops, and vacations are the principal culprits. Will utilize alternative dance class venues--to help fill the gaps if possible.

Forecast for low temperatures tonight/tomorrow--in the low to mid 30s. Will keep the heater going--especially over the next three days/nights.

Monday, November 09, 2015

2488

Where did the day go--into the bit bucket in the sky perhaps? I awoke early (before 6am)--and catnapped for several hours. The rain was still happening--and it had gotten cooler. I puttered around for a while--looking up videos on YouTube that dealt with Tui Na.

Found a short video that demonstrates someone doing some basic Tui Na techniques--enough appears that I feel it will match up with what Trager massage does. In any case, it will all be revealed tomorrow--my massage appointment is set for 10 o'clock. 

I went to SB's and had a pastry--and napped for bit. I picked up some chicken noodle soup--and had that for dinner. I felt cold, hazy, and murky for a lot of the day--also felt anxious and shaky. The bowl of soup grounded me--and I'm just feeling sleepy now.

The newly repaired truck is running smoothly--the new tires, brakes, and all of the minor fixes that were applied leave the truck feeling good. I'm glad I got the work done--my peace of mind is in place and getting better.

I managed to figure out how to use the new Split Screen feature--that came with the latest computer OS for the Macintosh. I had some difficulty setting up the new OS--on the computer for the rest of us. But I figured it out--and can see how it might be handy. Look forward to the next staff setting--and to hearing what's next for our small group.

The next two months will determine whether we, as a group, continue our association--or begin to fragment and fall away. But for now it's time to sleep--time to dream and let go. What group am I talking about?--I just realized that I have no idea. I was nodding off--even as I was hitting the keys. I think I was embedding some dream stuff into the afterimages of the last CBS episode.

Sunday, November 08, 2015

2489

Worshipped at the church of Firestone today--nearly all day! Decided I needed new tires--and a number of related elements (brakes and rotors, 100K service needs, and so forth). Result--I had to tithe the COF a substantial amount. Not as much as it would cost for a new vehicle--but it's getting there. My tires looked to be unevenly worn--and I wasn't feeling safe driving as much as I am now to get to dance classes. So, I bit the bullet--or the bill. It won't break the bank--but I'll have to think twice when the next big repair job emerges. The tough part of today--hanging out at the COF waiting for the repairs to be done.

I ate lunch at the India Oven--then went to SBs for a GT latte. Then went back (in the rain--yes, it's been raining) to the COF--watched the last 3 quarters of the 49er game (SF won by a point). I didn't get a nap or such during the whole day--I was getting weary as the clock counted down to the end of the game (and the completion of repairs).

When I left the COF, I went across the street to Panera's--and grabbed a sandwich (0.5 of which I gulped down on the spot). There was a magnificent cloud/sunset painting in the western sky--which I failed to grab with my phone's camera(s).

Glad to be back in my little cave--and being warmed by the AC. I was feeling cold and achy all day--as I walked from place to place in the damp, cool weather. It felt good to walk--and I was wrapped up with gloves, a scarf, and a thermal vest.

It's not that late--but I'm feeling tired and ready to get horizontal. I have to R&R from today's excursion--seems like it's the law of the land.

Saturday, November 07, 2015

2490

Slowdown Saturday--with many things happening! Awoke early--some shaking as I awoke. Ate a scone and drank a GT latte for breakfast--lunch was a pulled pork sandwich with fries. Late in the afternoon I had a Frap--I needed something to wake me up even though I already had a latte.

Did something I had never done before--I got a pedicure. I just popped into the nail salon that is next door to my barber--the salon only does manicures and pedicures. They have a range of options--each more costly than the other. I chose a basic treatment--with a few added features. It was a pleasure to be worked on--and my feet feel great. I don't know why I've never had this treatment before--it's so much easier, and more effective, than trying to do what's needed on myself.

It was a bit intimidating to go into the place--it was just me and 5 or 6 women getting treatments along with the staff that was all women. The chair I was in also had a roller massage in the back rest--it felt good to get my back massaged while my feet were being serviced. I'll definitely be going back--my feet and legs are really kinked up with all of the dancing, the PD cramping, and the flaky skin on my legs and calves. Today's adventure was a fitting introduction to next week's Trager massage--which will take place on Tuesday.

I took the truck by the repair shop--I felt that it needed some attention. I'm getting a new set of tires, a 90,000 mile checkup, brake inspection, and fixing anything that is detected while they do the different  tasks. It's going to be a costly visit tomorrow--but work that needs to be done so I can feel comfortable with using the vehicle to get me around the area. The cost will only be a fraction of what it will eventually cost me to get a new vehicle--I can spend a little now and keep the thing running for a couple more years.

I'm in the catastrophe-stage of ordering my medications--which means that refills only cost a small amount for each Rx. The money I'll save on less costly Rx--can be applied to my vehicle's repair amounts.

Today's double serving of caffeine seems to be keeping me clear and not all that tired--right now.

Possibility of rain on Sunday and Monday--with the nighttime temperatures being somewhat warmer than the recent previous nights.

Friday, November 06, 2015

2491

Mixed bag at class today--instructor was in a fog and teaching was on and off. I awoke early and went out for breakfast--oatmeal, bran muffin, raisins, and walnuts with brown sugar. Drank an energy drink--before heading to class. Grabbed a GT Frap on the way back--and ate lightly for dinner. Stopped and picked up some grocery items--used my new cash back grocery store feature and added 15 points to my account. I finally gave in and got a cash back account--it doesn't pay back all that much but it's silly not to use it (like my Panera's and Starbuck's cards). These three are my key shopping domains--except for my CC which has a cash back feature as well.

I dug through my closet and found a pair of thermal socks--that I had bought when I did the Shasta climb. They definitely warm my feet--I'll pick up a few more pairs tomorrow. I mined my AWAD postings to grab this week's words--which I'll print out for MD tomorrow.

Kept the heater going all night last night--it got down to the high 30s last night. More of the same promised for tonight--it's about 48 degrees now, heading down to high 30s again.

Three days ahead with no dancing--I'll need to do something to keep the motion going. Three days is a long time between dances--need to keep moving.

Thursday, November 05, 2015

2492

After getting some breakfast (caramel, banana, walnut waffle)--went to PD support group. Only a handful of people there--the person who recently agreed to lead the group has resigned. We just had an open session--and people talked about their current issues. I felt myself close down as the meeting progressed--I came home and napped before heading for dance class. Picked up a GT latte--and stopped at TJ's to stock up on my chocolate stash.

Dance class went well--a couple of new people. We danced a hot Latin dance--I've got it down and felt like I expanded as I danced. The dance is Peligroso--which means dangerous.

Have a class tomorrow--and then a three-day break. The dance schedule then starts to fall apart--for November and December. Lots of things causing the disruption--holidays, dance festivals, vacations, and such.

Had an elaborate dream last night--no details remembered but I recall how intricate is seemed to be.

Supposed to get cool tonight--in the high 30s. Looking at getting some thermal socks--my toes get cold and want to cramp up.

Wednesday, November 04, 2015

2493

Awoke early--but slept well last night. Other than the cool weather--it's starting to hit the low 40s and high 30s now. I kicked the heater on this morning--about two hours ahead of its schedule. I was cold--so I felt that MD might be as well.

I made it to SBs and enjoyed a breakfast sandwich and a GT latte--warmed and filled my tummy. Went to dance class--which ended up going for nearly 2.5 hours. The seniors were brought in late--and we went ahead and kept on dancing.

I had taken my medication before going to class--and I felt a bit logy around 2pm or an hour or so after taking them. I grabbed a couple of pieces of chicken on the way home--I was feeling hungry. I ate an apple for dinner--but went back in about an hour for a bowl of ramen. I was feeling hungry--and breakfast and the chicken was not that much given the long dance class.

The ramen was mildly spicy--which helped warm me up as the night has gotten colder.

I talked with two of the women at the EDH dance class--and confirmed with them that I had PD and so forth. I've been telling people here and there--and it feels right to let them know what I'm dealing with. There was a woman visitor who came to the class in a wheelchair--she managed to dance some using her chair as an anchor. When she first arrived, she didn't think she could do anything--but she managed to move and dance a lot given her back injury that she's healing from right now.

PD OV support group tomorrow morning--I plan on getting some breakfast before attending. Then a bit of a rest--followed by a dance class in the afternoon. I'll grab a GT latte before heading to class--to tide me over until dinner time. I missed this group meeting last month--and seeing everyone there.


Tuesday, November 03, 2015

2494

I awoke really early--sometime in the early morning hours.  When I did get up, I ate the other half of the sandwich from Sunday evening--and slept for a while until it was time to go to dance class.

I called the massage specialist that I found who works nearby and does Trager massage--she's the only one in a  20-mile area. She seems to have a lot of experience--and sounds like she'll be an ideal asset with my movement issues. I'll get an introductory session next week (Tuesday morning)--and will be finished in time to make the afternoon dance class. We shall see--I know that getting some body work is something I need to reestablish. I miss LM--and his healing techniques!

It got cooler today--and last night. The heater is running--but the chill in the air is something that I seem to be sensitive to already. I know that I'll acclimate as the days roll by--but the startup is feeling rough.

I went to dance class via SBs--and had a latte and a muffin. After class, I had an ice cream--and a big bowl of tasty chili made by BH with corn bread. The chili warmed me up--but I'm still feeling the coolness of the moist air.

Dance class was small--not sure she can continue the class with so few people. We'll get a reading over the next few months--with the holidays and people's travel plans. Tomorrow's class is at the EDH senior center--the easy class but the one that is restful and fun.

Mononymous is what a person is called if they use only a single name--the Greeks were great at this!

Monday, November 02, 2015

2495

Rain and coolness--giant cloud formations turning and twisting in the sky. Fall weather appears--along with the 2nd day of the dead celebrations. By the clock, I awoke early--but my body knows what time it was despite the massive plot to reset the clocks.

The coolness is wearing on me today--I've been wrapped up and trying to stay warm. Had a huge lunch meal at BBQ place--pulled pork burrito with beans and rice. Did a green tea latte in the afternoon--and cranked up the thermostat so it would put some heat in the house. I'm a bit tired from yesterday's dance-a-thon--but reacting more to the weather shift that's taking place.

Looking forward to dance class tomorrow--despite the weather and the drive. I felt good yesterday evening--after dancing as I did. I think I stayed up late last night--and didn't do a lot of sleeping.

I think the night before I did a big kinesthetic move in a dream--I remember reaching out and ostensibly grabbing someone and yelling. I awoke draped out of the bed--holding the leg of a nightstand in a tight grip.

Getting up to speed on my TV show episodes--started watching Sunday's shows on the computer today.

Sunday, November 01, 2015

2496

All Souls Day--or some such macabre celebration! Dancing went well today--2.5 hours of movement and music. I felt pretty good once we were into the dancing some--I was a bit murky before during the morning. DST was part of the murkiness--I watched the clock fall back an hour at 2am. My clock is smart and adjusts for location and season--not like the rest of the clocks that I had to reset by hand. Lots of people--lots of clocks!

The dance was not that well attended--it was raining but not enough to prohibit people from coming. But there was a big number of people from the classes who were not there--which affected the energy levels and kept everything slightly muted for the 2.5 hours.

I knew nearly all of the dances--including the more difficult ones. At one point, there was a restart in a dance--one that only I acknowledged and caused the whole room to lose track of where they were. I just kept dancing--as the rest of the room collapsed in chaos. The DJ had to start the dance over--and nearly everyone got the restart the 2nd time around.

Got an email from LA--she has been laid off and is sorting through her options. She's giving herself 5 months to come up with a plan--now that the shock is over, she's starting to let go and take it easy.

I also sent LL a birthday greeting--her Bday is today! I've not heard from her much over the past year--will be good to hear from her and what she's up to.

Doing my favorite Sunday activity (not)--laundry time! I ate well today--sort of. I had a breakfast sandwich and a hot chocolate, an apple, and a chicken sandwich for dinner--after dancing away the afternoon. It began to rain this morning--and is still doing so now. Great--we can use the moisture!

I sent the following blurb in my notes to LA and LL--copied below.

I'm doing well and the dancing is helping me stay that way. I'm dancing pretty much full tilt--and not losing ground as are many of the PD people in my support groups. I decided to not take it easy--but to take it hard. I danced for 2.5 hours strait through today at a local dance event. Not bad for a 76-year-old person with PD! I'm looking into how I might arrange it so I'm dancing every day--and maybe even teach a class to some people who have PD like me. Keep on dancing--it's the best exercise for the body, the mind, and the spirit all in one!
 In a local workshop last month, Michael Barr was the teacher of a dance he choreographed. He pointed out before he started teaching the dance that he had taken his first line dance lessons in one of my classes. It was a poignant moment where things had come full circle--the student becoming the teacher, and the teacher becoming the student. Michael is now an established teacher/choreographer who is known worldwide.