Heather Shrinks in Houston!

[Houston Heather]

I meant to tell you something kind of sad that happened today.

One of our drivers did a double take and gaped at me. Apparently, she saw us recently and I had lost more weight in the meantime.

We were riding with a diabetic guy, on dialysis, has nerve damage, going blind, but still eating crap. As we passed various restaurants he would praise them to her and describe the menu. She kept looking at me in the rearview mirror.

"Do you mind if I ask you some questions?"
"No, not at all".
She asked how much weight I'd lost. I told her, 55 pounds. The front seat guy (actually the one who disgusted me into doing Atkins again) shut up real fast.
"It comes off, hard, though, dosen't it?"
No, I told her. Every month, BAM, I lose more weight.
"Are you taking any special vitamins?"
No, in fact, I take 3 prescriptions that cause weight gain.
"You don't eat bread? Rice? What else?"
I told her.
"You must be working out."
No, I just help Ron at work. That takes about 15-20 hours a week. I do all the lifting and stocking.
"That's it?"
That's it.

The other guy was silent all the way to my drop off.

I got into my dressy clothes box to see what I had. I have a load of silk blouses in gorgeous colors, a wool skirt, a silk blazer, a wool blazer that matches the wool skirt, etc.

I had found a cute eyelet dress at Goodwill today. I tried it on at home.

One thing you have to realize, I was flat as a pancake all through highschool. Not even an A cup. I finally went up to a B cup when I got up to around 140 pounds, and a better figure. That's why I'm going to be careful with my weight loss.

Anyway, I tried on the dress. The waist fit great. The hips fit great, but it wouldn't zip. Too much bust!

I love it. I'm too busty for it. At least for now.

[Zer]

Heather, sounds as if you need to put your pretty clothes out where you can see them and try them on before you get too small to wear them! Great duds!

[Houston Heather]

I had one lace type skirt with a liner, too small. Lots of silk blouses, a few blazers. Not much else, really. I did find my bathing suits, also too small but not horrible.

Even if they don't fit in 6 months when we do the cruise, I can always buy another suit at Walmart. I tend to go pretty conservative on the bathing suits.

It's the second of December. I just heard the ice cream truck while I was taking out the trash. You've got to love Houston.

It got into the 30's last night, but up to the 80's today.

I got whacked with a horrible depression at work and doubled up on my lithium. My stomach will not be happy for a few days, but it's safer than being depressed. It knocked me out of course so I slept for about 4 hours when I got home.

I hate being sick. I want a normal brain. All I've ever had my whole life is a screwed up undependable brain. Ugh. OK, end whine.

I'm really, really thirsty. It's a side effect of the medicine - so I'm drinking lots of water to help counteract it. I also have some decaf iced tea I made.

I strongly considered going to the Post Office and mailing Mom and Dad's present, but Ron talked me out of it. He said our friend would be happy to take us Thursday. If not, I can always take the bus after work.

I also need to exchange my "Merry Christmas" Tshirt. The neck label said a large, but the seam label says a small and even the arms don't fit, so I'm calling it a small. Bummer. I wanted to wear it today.

Instead, I went with a charcoal gray heather tshirt and my rose jeans. They are truly awesome.

I'm still a little depressed and tired, but not as bad as earlier. Mainly I just feel whiny.

I'm about to go pack up my cart - I'm donating a bunch of fat clothes to Salvation Army tomorrow. It's a win win for me and them. Ron wants to try Taco Bell, so we're going to Taco Bell. I get him settled and run like hell. Away from all the Taco Carbs. I take my cart to Salvation Army. I donate. I shop. I go to the other thrift store next door. I shop.

First, though, we go to Walmart, then home. Then Taco Bell/Salvation Army.

[Houston Heather]

I've been pretty depressed today - time to go back up to 4 lithiums a day.

I'm still a little down but it's livable.

I realized one reason I'm down. The last time I took Ron to Taco Bell so I could run my clothes to Salvation Army, he could walk without pain and enjoy the food he ate.

It seems so long ago, and it was only a few months.

[Houston Heather]

I talked to my aunt today. She told me she likes to check my blog (this one) if she hasn't heard from me in a while, and get a quick run-down of what's going on.

Cool.

Today was good. I was able to return a broken belt (it was broken when I bought it) to Walmart, so that enabled me to buy a cute fleece lined zip up hoodie in a heathery turquoise. I got Ron his food and lots of cans of tuna cat food for the cats. It's basically all fish by-products. Very smelly and they find it delicious. I like to give them to Frosty as a healthy treat - it's all meat, not full of the flours like the cat treats.

No depression symptoms - when I got back from Walmart I ate a good meal and took lithium #2 at about 10. Then I took Lithium #3 around 1. I'll take Lithium #4 in about an hour.

I got all my groceries, cat food, the hoodie. Boring things too. Oh, I got Ron a cute t-shirt that says "If you're naughty, I won't tell Santa". Hysterical. I'm making him wear it to work tomorrow.

He ate a sausage burrito at Walmart, then when we got home he used the foot massager for a while. I loaded up the fat clothes into the cart. They were happy to see me at Salvation Army - I said "I've got fat clothes! I've lost 55 pounds and I don't need them! Take 'em away!" Then I went into the store.

It was packed, crazy busy. Turns out Wednesday is half off day - all clothes half off. Yike! It was NUTS. I found a really nice linen sheath dress in black - it fit me perfectly. I also got a couple of paperbacks and some gourmet yarn.

I went next door to the other thrift shop. I found some absolutely hideous Christmas sweaters which reminded me of our Sandwich guy. He owns the business. He also works full time in the corporate venue. At "work", they're having a Christmas party, with a theme of "Ugly Christmas Sweaters". Whoever brings the ugliest sweater wins a prize.

I didn't have his cell, so I had Ron call him. He said Brian was very touched and impressed that I'd remembered. He hadn't gotten his sweater yet so he'd be swinging by after work. Cool.

I found another cute dress (I had literally 2 dresses that fit me prior to today, and both are very casual) at thrift store #2. Sure enough, when I tried it on, it fit! Awesome. It's black with tiny little pink roses. It might make me look a little fatter (don't "they" say to avoid small prints?) but it's cute enough that I don't care. Since I'm a couple inches from size goal, I could easily have them tailored, too. The linen dress could go almost anywhere with the right accessories.

I used to be really baffled by the whole fashion thing, until I read a wonderful book: Fabulous You, Unlocking the secrets to your personal style. It turns out I am a sporty/romantic. I can wear either jeans and a t-shirt or a ruffled lace dress. I'm comfortable in both. Now, if I were to try to wear something in lame with embellishments and high heels, I'd be miserable. I also have to avoid my tendency to go towards "Traditional" type things - they aren't me. I'm not a polo and khakis type either.

Knowing what works for me makes it a lot easier to shop, and the only things I'm not wearing are things that don't fit yet! Another thing the author advises is to have 3-4 core colors in your wardrobe (knowing your "season" is good too, I'm a winter so I can wear black and deep jewel tones).

My favorite colors are turquoise, hot pink, rose pink, and purple (the shade they normally call "grape"). So, if I find a cute accessory in rose pink, I know it'll work with my pieces. For instance, I have a crocheted lace cardigan (I didn't make it) in rose. I can wear that with a neutral, over my black dress, my eyelet dress, or over my new rose print on black dress. Easy.

And people don't do that "Ew" double take when they see me, either. I had a few... mistakes along the way. Worst mistake, wearing pants that were too small! Ew! I must have been a horrible sight!

I ate good today, one thing I plan to do is eat more veggie carbs period, and more especially earlier on in the day. I ate a bowl of california blend veggies (cauliflower, broccoli, and sliced carrots) along with a couple of sausage patties and a whole lot of shredded cheese at 10. When I got home, I had a slimfast shake and some lithium.

Dinner will be some kind of meat, cheese, and more veggies, either a salad or cooked. I haven't decided yet. Hey, it worked. I'm not depressed today.

Tomorrow is work, and then if it's doable I plan to go to the Post Office and mail Mom & Dad's presents. I don't want to wait too long. It'll be miserable, and this way I can forget all about it.

Sounds good to me!

[Houston Heather]

The extra lithium knocked out most of the depression, but I couldn't THINK today. Very aggravating, trying to remember the word for "cart". And I left my keys at home.

Ron asked me what was wrong with me. I told him "I had to take 4 lithium yesterday, remember?" He stumbled off, a lot of cursing under his breath at God.

We were working next to each other. I was filling the coffee machine, while he worked on soda #4. I added "But it's better than being depressed. I'll take it."

Huh. Ice cream truck again.

I did all the standing work I could - about 90% of it. Ron's feet were "extra numb" today. His medication makes him a little groggy at times, like mine. I told him I understood completely.

I had enough lifting work to make me happy. Ooops. I forgot to put more water in the fridge. We'll have to do that first thing tomorrow.

We came home. It was a clear, cold day. Wind chill had the temps in the 30's. It might have been nice to get out but I was exhausted. Party girl here ate a piece of cheese, gave the cats some treats, and went straight to bed. I woke up around 4:30.

We got up at 7 and went to work, I wore my long winter coat. I bought it last summer at Goodwill. It cost me $10. It's in great shape, it's a little unflattering because it's the old timey quilted type of coat. It's slate blue, a color I like. It goes from my neck to my ankles.

When I bought it, I couldn't zip it. Same last year. I remember measuring myself and realizing I'd have to lose 6 inches off my midsection to even HOPE to zip it. Today it zipped perfectly. It fit comfortably, with just the right amount of ease.

I sat outside, wearing a nice wool hat I'd stuck in the pocket, and smiled. The wind was chilly, but I was nice and warm. Ron stayed inside until the ride came. We get enough cold weather that I'll be glad I had it.

Enough cold weather to want a $10 coat, but not a fancy $200 one. Besides, I love the pockets. They zip up and are nice and deep.

Just the fact that all I did was work and home, I didn't even knit anything today - is a little depressing. It's sad to feel so limited. But I'm not sick, just tired, and I knew I signed up for this.

I have 2 choices: be sick, or be tired. Since the lithium works so well for my symptoms I would never change it. The other medications have some scarier side effects, ones a lot worse than grogginess and fatigue.

Besides, bipolar people always have a terrible time sleeping anyway.

[Houston Heather]

I decided to take a total of 4 today.

I got a good knitting book I ordered a couple weeks ago. My Christmas presents (when they arrive, they go into Ron's closet) should begin arriving soon.

Tomorrow I need to go to work, mail Mom and Dad's thing. Maybe go to the sporting goods store and get another t-shirt.

[Houston Heather]

Wow! A lot happened today!

1. Went to work, sales are DEAD. Got sandwiches and stocked them, all we needed to do.
2. Fit great into my long winter coat - I was always too fat to wear it. Everyone is envious of it. It is so toasty.
3. Went home, ate.
4. Chuck came by and helped me run errands. We mailed Mom and Dad's thing, went to Home Depot, got a "fatter" cat door, flourescent light starters for a vending machine, and left. Then he dropped me at the sporting goods store.
5. I got ANOTHER Merry Christmas t-shirt. This one DOES fit. I also got some wool socks and long underwear (courtesy of Ron). I found a cute "12 days of hunting" t-shirt for Gil, who works for the other vendor. We'll give it to him Monday.
6. After the store, I went across the street right as the bus pulled up! I jumped on. It goes to an area of town that is percieved as "bad" and very black. I liked the people on the bus, and the driver told me "You go girl!" when I told her I married a "Black" man.
7. I went to Starbucks when I got off the bus. Ron wanted a slice of gingerbread loaf, so I got him one.
8. I went to the chicken place and got Ron some beans and rice. They didn't work out for him.
9. I went to the bus stop. A young girl (about 19) was being harrassed by a creep. I used to get hassled a lot at the bus stop when we lived in bad neighborhoods. She was dressed pretty provocatively. Anyway, I got out my cell phone and made a production out of reading his license plate. He burned rubber getting away from us! The girl thanked me. I gave her some tips.
10. I rode home.
11. My last present arrived and I put it away.
12. The mailman couldn't figure out the "hot hands" handwarmer was for him, and left it in the mailbox.
13. After my nap, a neighbor came by and gave me my passports! I was glad he didn't get the handwarmer after that.

Tomorrow, we just go to Walmart. Ron discovered that hard boiled eggs are good, and taste like eggs. He is loving them. I think he ate 4 today. He washed them down with a couple glasses of milk.

Anyway, he needs more eggs.

I'm glad I can just be lazy tomorrow if I'd like.

[Houston Heather]

It was chilly today, felt like 40's. I kept wishing I had knit myself a scarf, thinking thoughts like "Why haven't I knit myself a scarf? I always want one when it's cold!"

I decided to get some yarn and knit myself a scarf. I misplaced some patterns I copied onto index cards, very aggravating. I was hunting them up and ended up in the computer/yarn room. I have a box of washable wool/acrylic blend yarn. Some if it I bought when I was manic, having no real idea how I'd use it.

I found some cute, bright colors, but I have a denim jacket, a slate blue coat, a black coat, and a red coat. Most of the time I will be wearing it with the slate blue coat. Stumped. Until I found a beige/cream twist yarn. It's very bland. But it'll go with all my winter coats. Yay. I already started it.

The fingerless gloves are fun, but they take a lot of concentration. An easy, brainless, garter stitch scarf is simple and fun. Even if I'm really medicated, I can still knit that.

Good.

I still haven't found the index cards yet. Ack. Either they'll show or they won't. Maybe they're around my bed? I keep a lot of knitting books over there.

[Houston Heather]

They're not around my bed.

I got back down to 173.5 today. It looks like eating the no sugar added pumpkin pie caused a weight gain that took me a few weeks to toss.

NOT worth it.

Yesterday when I was out shopping for Ron I went to Starbucks and got myself a 12 ounce steamed heavy whipping cream with 2 shots of sugarfree vanilla. Very good, very rich and decadent.

While I was waiting in line at the chicken place, I noticed they had fried sweet potato pie. OH, I know that would be delicious and divine. Until the next day, I reminded myself. I told myself it had nuts in it which would give me a migraine and FOR SURE I'd go back up to 180 and hate myself for weeks. I just barely got out of there without ordering it.

Now that I know it's there I can gird myself, but having it sprung on me like that was tough. Thank God I had my heavy whipping cream thing.

Nice to know I dropped a couple pounds from yesterday to today, drinking it.

Today I went to Walmart, got some eggs, milk, heavy whipping cream, and a little bit of soda.

I need to decide what to do about driver candy. During the holidays, I like to hand out little bags of candy to my drivers. Problem is, a lot of the clients are riding because they are obese and sugar addicts. How do I know? When they get in the vehicle they will reach into the bag and try to take the candy. Candy that isn't theirs. When the driver says that's not for you they pout and sulk like children.

So I warn the drivers to hide the candy. Today I handed it to a driver. A very large woman was sitting behind the driver. Her legs were so swollen with edema she couldn't even lace her shoes. She was struggling to breathe, too. She used an electric wheelchair to get around.

As soon as she saw the handoff, she asked "Where's MY bag?" I told her, sorry, only for drivers. As I left the vehicle to get Ron I heard her ordering the driver to "Give me something you don't want!" The driver did give her something.

In the meantime, I load up Ron. We had to ride around together for about an hour. Not surprising, even though the Walmart is only a few miles away.

About halfway through the ride, she finished her candy and demanded I give her more. I told her, no. I'm sorry, but the other bag is for my cashier who's working very hard today. She huffed a little but accepted it.

Unfortunately, when I do hand out driver candy this happens a lot. In my opinion, a lot of clients are riding because they are sugar addicts. I have actually had people beg me to give them candy I had purchased for work (I refused). Ron likes to give out sodas or bottles of water to drivers during the summer.

Again, we've had other clients demand we give THEM sodas. We refuse, they call us names.

I almost wonder if it's worth it. It's like I'm handing out free drinks in front of alcoholics. All they care about is getting a fix, and they don't care how mean they are to anyone who gets in their way.

But I want to be kind, and brighten up people's day. The drivers ALL love the candy. The drivers who don't eat sugar give it away.

So, here I am, 14 bags of driver candy all bagged up, wondering what to do. Opinions are welcome.

I refuse to hand out candy to clients. 90% of them are diabetic, ALL of them are obese. Some go to dialysis. I am not going to ruin their health any more, not to mention I can't afford to hand out candy to every client that wants it.

I try to give the candy discreetly, so the clients can't see, but it was impossible today.

Other than that, I had a good day. I handed out candy to the Walmart greeter and cashier, and my driver who brought us home. I got the eggs, milk, and cheese. Ron wasn't there long, and we had a straight trip home.

I had a little bit of a headache, so I took some asprin. Once the headache was whacked I went outside and raked some leaves. It was a nice, pretty day.

Bubba cat laid in the driveway, watching me work. He meowed at me periodically, admiring the progress of the dumb animal. The mockingbird appreciated my work, too. Once Bubba left he ate some bugs out of the lawn.

After I finished, I came in the house and ate some lunch, then I took my nap. I woke up and came here. It's been a nice day, sunny, about 65 degrees.

[Houston Heather]

I found my knitting cards. They were in my knitting bag the whole time.

I had a whipped cream thing and an omlette for dinner. Tasty.

[Houston Heather]

What I didn't mention is that I forgot and put some chocolate PEANUT BUTTER powder in my whipped cream thing. DUMB DUMB DUMB.

I had a NASTY headache today.

I still managed to have fun in the garden - I have peppers, beans, herbs, parsley, lettuce, and collards all doing well. I weeded the beds, mulched them, and added some composted cow manure (I got bags of manure and mulch last year with a dear friend).

I need to go through my seed box and see what winter crops I'd like to start. I'm thinking about some broccoli, more collards, and I'm not sure. I'll have fun.

I couldn't really do any knitting today, but I was up for weeding and such. When I was out back, I noticed the neighbor's dog has been trying to dig a hole under the fence. It's not the dog's fault. Bubba-cat likes to lie on the ground, on our side of the fence, visible to the dog. "You can't get me!"

That would aggravate any dog!

Tomorrow we just go to work and then Burger King, then home.

The neighbor who owns the dog is drumming, badly, but I did notice he put cinderblocks on his side of the fence. He's not a bad guy, just a bad drummer.

[*Pear*]

I'm working on a garter stitch scarf too. Its made with a brown acrylic yarn with sparkly "fur" in it. I'm knitting it up on big size 15 needles and its gorgeous. My mother in law gave me the yarn awhile ago but I didnt know what to do with it until now. Its 35 stitches across and probably 5 feet long now. I'm almost done with it.

[Houston Heather]

You'll love this Pear. I had a project I was working on, the Red Heart Zebra yarn. I made 2 strips, 30 stitches wide. Supposed to be the same length so I can eventually sew all strips together for a nice warm afghan.

SUPPOSED. Somehow, on strip #2 I botched the length, dropped stitches, and twisted them.

It's supposed to be in the 30's with gale force winds tomorrow. I'll be waiting outside on public transit with no scarf.

Or will I? I thought of that "strip". It's not a strip that failed, it wanted to be a SCARF the whole time! Silly me for not listening! Since it's black/white/gray it matches everything.

Yay. Now I have a scarf. I'm even going to wear long underwear tomorrow. Brrrrr.

Today Ron and I got up at 4 AM. Gotta get the donuts. We get them every other week. I got into the stockroom with Ron and said "We have way too many donuts for this to be a delivery day".

OOPS. We got up at 4 AM for this. A delivery that ain't coming!

So, we looked at the machines. Snacks are DEAD. Food machine was basically full. I opened the soda machine. THANK GOD. They bought about 9 cases. I guess we won't starve after all.

We did what needed doing, only a couple hours' worth, and went home. We had a pickup to go to Burger King.

Here are a few comments the driver made during the trip:
"Why did you get in without helping him?" - because my husband wants to get in on his own.
"Why do you want to go to this Burger King? There's another one closer to your house!"
"Why do you eat out? Doesn't your wife feed you?"

Nice lady [/sarcasm]. Real nice. If I allowed myself, I'd be pretty hurt and angry by those comments, but am I going to see her again? Doubtful. It's her God-given right to dislike me. I just have to let it roll off of me.

I was tempted to call in a complaint - really, none of that is her business! It was OBVIOUS she was a big-time control freak so I doubt she'll last long. They never do.

I just did my best to be bland and not react. That's what she wanted, me to react. But I tend to be deeply hurt when someone implies I'm not taking care of Ron.

Anyway, I had a delicious no bun "Stacker" - 3 nice flamebroiled patties, cheese, and a little bacon. I watched Ron eat french fries (they taste awful, he said), onion rings, and milk. He thoughtlessly offered me a fry and I said "No, I don't want to wear it tomorrow".

After a few minutes he asked for a bite of my burger and I said "Sorry, I ate it". Already? You betcha, I was hungry!

We got a good ride home with a very nice guy. I was really tired so I took a nap for a while.

When Ron woke up he told me he wants a doctor who can help him. I explained I had read some info about Physiatrists and that they are rehab doctors whose goal is to preserve what you've got and help you improve. Really, the ideal doctor for Ron. About Physiatrists

He finally said OK, what's her number. I gave it to him. He called. We were both REALLY impressed by how kind, compassionate, and thorough the assistant was. She was very very kind. I'm hopeful.

Ron sees her next month. I see my doctor next month, towards the end of the month. I've lost 20 pounds (more) since I saw him last. That'll blow his mind.

Ron does OK with fish sticks so I suggested we try a well-known seafood place nearby. We're going there for lunch tomorrow. I'm sure they'll have some kind of baked fish I can eat, and a salad. He's pretty excited.

I like spoiling him, and the feeling is mutual.

[Zer]

Physiatrist is a new word for me. Article in AARP last month talked about it, so I browsed to find one near me. Found one a few blocks away but he finally did call me back to say he is no longer in practice. Do let me know how R likes it. The whole concept is positive, as far as I can tell from reading up on it. Great!

I'll be watching for R's experience with a physiatrist. And I'll see if I can find one that I can get to. Meanwhile, I've got a really nice Naturopathic Doctor and her chiropractor son, sharing an office in my own village. Chiro says he will do home visits to get me up and courageous enough to drive myself to his clinic. Meanwhile, I am aiming to find my way to 369# by year's end. Pray for me!

[Houston Heather]

You betcha Zer!

Got up early, ate a good breakfast, and went to work. I did some nice things for people the last couple days.

People really seem to get a kick out of my santa hat and Christmas t-shirts. I'm glad I "did" them this year.

If we had to live off the proceeds of the snack machines, we'd starve. Fortunately sodas are doing OK.

Lots of running around at work, Ron can be a little demanding at times.

We went to the seafood place. Ron ate all his shrimp (not bad = not revolting), and I was a little "bad". I had some fried calamari (only a little bit of flour breading), actually I ate a whole appetizer basket of fried calamari if I'm going to be honest. It was good!

Then I had stuffed catfish. It was stuffed with shrimp (which might trigger a migraine, we'll see tomorrow) and crab. Tasty. I asked for some melted butter and dumped it on the fish. I was very satisfied.

We have a cold front coming in, which meant rain, high wind, and general YUCK. Our ride was going to be really late so Ron called us a cab. One was literally right around the corner. Awesome.

We have gale force winds right now, and it's going to get cold tonight.

I found out a wonderful thrift store chain (Savers/Value Village) has a store right off "my" bus route. I plan to hit it tomorrow. I'll have a lot of fun. It's in kind of a grim neighborhood but I'll pack my common sense.

I never wear jewelry or anything so I'll be OK.

[Zer]

Funny how absurdly happy I am when you report a food that R can tolerate. He sure is eating better these days. Sounds like it to me. I'm sure that will help to fatten him up, as you have mentioned his weight dropping as he did not like the taste or texture of this or that food. You still making him PB&J all the time?

Maybe snacks are selling slow because office parties for the holiday season are going on? Glad the drinks still sell!

[Houston Heather]

It's a processing plant, people are bringing their own snacks to work. I see it. I can't blame them, though. If I were worried about money I'd bring my own food and avoid the vending machine.

I make sure to ALWAYS thank anyone who uses the machines. I know they're doing us a favor.

I have to tell you about my adventure today. I live in a subdivision off "Apple" Road. I'll call the bus the 18. It goes up and down Apple road all day.

I had planned to ride the 18 down to the thrift store. I bundled up (long sleeved T, hooded sweatshirt, long heavy coat, long-underwear, and wool socks). I brought my scarf. I wore my wool socks.

I walked 2/3 of a mile to get to Apple road and catch the 18. I did so. I greeted all my drivers with "I bet everyone's glad to see you!" It felt like the 20's. It was awfully cold. Cold enough that I was glad of all my layers. Like I told Ron, it's an adventure .

I rode the 18 for half an hour, through a really awful neighborhood. I saw a sweet old lady in a raspberry beret, and I kept thinking about the song by Prince. "And when it was warm, she didn't wear much more, raspberry beret... I think I looooove you". I couldn't giggle because only crazy people do that.

I need to get off at "Miller" street. I've done all my research (). I get off at Miller and go thataway. As we approach the major stop near mine, I ask the driver to let me off at Miller.

"Are you sure?" Yes. Thank you!

I get off the bus. I'm surrounded by a lake of half-frozen, slippery mud. I have to carefully pick my way through the mud to Miller lane. I finally get there. I survey the area. There's the return bus stop.

I don't see the Starbucks that's supposed to be nearby. According to my map, a quarter mile that way and I'm good. Except it's a 2 lane (one each way) industrial road, going past vacant lots and industrial parks. Kind of an odd location for a thrift store.

I plod a mile down the road, NO SIDEWALK. I am walking on mud between the road and a drainage ditch. It's raining, and very windy. Freezing. Fun, let me tell you. This had better be a good deal.

I get to the street address. DONATION CENTER ring bell for service.

AWWWwwwww. I call Ron. He is horrified. He never thought to call and find out if they SOLD things. I start laughing. Figures I'm going to ride the bus for an hour total, walk 2.5 miles in the freezing cold rain, and it's not even a thrift store!

How could it get any worse?

As I'm plodding back to the corner of Apple and Miller, I notice a bus stop across the way. It appears to go right back to Apple. As I'm deliberating, the bus roars past. Yup, I'm walking.

I get to the corner of Apple and Miller. As I'm picking my way through the mud, the 18 northbound (the one I want) roars past. Yay. That means I have to wait outside for half an hour. It's all industrial around me, except for a tiny gas station.

I already have to pee (all that cold air) so I don't want any more drinks. I plod over to the bus stop and figure out what I want to do. Ron suggests the Goodwill store. I know that, it's got a Starbucks nearby, and I can hit Foodtown on the way. OK, I'll go to the Goodwill. After all, that's where I bought my nifty winter coat for $10.

I call my aunt, we yak. I call Ron, who still feels awful. I open up a Hot Hands. Hot Hands site. My hands are warm, I'm mostly warm, but it's a long wait.

I finally see the bus. But wait. It's a training bus. AGH. There it is! I get on.

Over the next half hour, I am romanced by the bus driver, who lets me know that he likes me a lot. I keep telling him I'm married and stupid in love with my husband. He even gave me his phone number! "Call me if you'd like a ride anytime!" I couldn't believe it.

I'm pretty sure I looked real hot in my long, puffy winter coat, wool hat, and hand-knit scarf.

Anyway, I got off at Foodtown. I got my soda. After I peed, I realized no toilet paper. Ooops. I went out and waited on the connecting bus to get me to Goodwill. I didn't have to wait too long.

I got off the bus and headed over. Whoooo - windy! I'm getting an adventure all right.

I still have $19. I wanted a cute black lace sweater, cardigan style, to wear over my nicer dresses. The only sweater I found looked as if it had been dragged for a while. Not working. Another lady snatched what appeared to be a cute white lace sweater, I was really bummed about it. Later on, I saw it at checkout EW. She can have it.

Nothing in the sweater department. I looked in the dresses and saw a really cute party type dress - black and white floral, very cute and feminine. Perfect for my style. No size tag. When I tried it on at home it fit great, except for about 1 inch of bust. I'm too chesty again.

I was always really flat, that's why I find it so amusing. It'll work for the cruise next year. I also found a really cute rose colored blouse I can wear with my black lace skirt. They'd be perfect together.

That's $14. Time to go. I left and went to Starbucks. They messed up my first drink and had to make me another one (steamed heavy whipping cream, 2 shots sugarfree vanilla). I missed the connecting bus to go home.

I waited there as long as I could - but that Starbucks can attract some real interesting folks. I was happy to go, besides it's a small bus bench and I wanted to claim a spot.

I did, and after I showed up other people did. The driver was early, because he didn't want to see us freeze while he waited around the corner on his "turnaround". The wonderful man let us sit on the warm bus and wait about 10 minutes.

When the route started, so did he. I had a nice little trip.

When I got off, I was faced with a choice. It's about a mile down Apple to the subdivision, and 2/3 of a mile to the house. I could wait for 20 minutes in the cold (and maybe encounter "Romeo" again ) or I could walk.

I decided to walk. The fun thing about walking down Apple are the vicious dogs. The yards facing Apple are surrounded by wooden fences. It seems like the vicious dogs all live in the old wooden fence yards - so I always have the possiblity that one could get out and get me.

But the bus stop is near one of those yards anyway. If I'm standing next to the yard for 20 minutes I'll be worried the dog will get me, AND cold. If I'm walking I won't be cold.

I walked. 2 dogs lunged at the fence and snarled viciously. One dog was out of his yard and actually came after me. I turned around and jabbed at him with my long umbrella, saying "No!" in a stern voice. He kept barking but he stopped coming after me. Nice dog. Real nice dog.

Having passed Assertiveness 101, I had an uneventful walk home. I pretty much went straight to bed. I was tired.

I had some wierd dreams but other than that a good nap. Oh, and it started sleeting after I got home. Brrr.

Tomorrow, just work and home. Yay.

[Houston Heather]

It's been snowing for a few hours now. It's beginning to stick.

It really reminds me of my childhood in Virginia.

Ron? Not so much. He is wrapped in blankets with the thermostat set on 80.

[Houston Heather]

Boy, I can't have a boring life.

I got a call from my aunt today. Dad is in the hospital. Severe abdominal pain and fever.

Dad's 67 and has a bad heart. Not fun.

I had to do my work and assist Ron while I waited for news. Finally got another call - it's his gallbladder. I was actually able to talk to Dad and he said it's his fault, he overindulged this Thanksgiving.

Since he's on blood thinners they're giving him platelets to get his blood back to "normal" - I'm glad I'm a donor! Once he's "normal" they will operate and take out the gallbladder. It might happen today, or a few days. We'll just have to wait and see.

I did eat a grilled cheese on lowcarb bread (about 16 carbs) for lunch. And I took an extra lithium.

Ay yi yi.

[Houston Heather]

I talked to my Dad again. He sounds a lot better. Depending on test results, he may have surgery at 7 AM tomorrow.

I wish I could be there.

[*Pear*]

Where do you find low carb bread, Heather?

Keep us posted on your father. Hope he'll be ok.

[Houston Heather]

It's called, let me get the loaf, Pear.

It doesn't say it's low carb bread but it has 8 grams net carbs per slice. "Nature's Own Double Fiber Wheat".

We had to get up at 3 to get our delivery. I had a very hard time falling asleep, worried about Dad. He was in surgery nearly 5 hours today, his gallbladder had gangrene and his abdomen was infected. They had to clean him out completely.

Poor Dad! Anyway, I woke up with 2 sweet kitties in my bed, one on either side. They knew I needed some support.

Ron didn't sleep well either so we were both a little stupid and irritable. That's a bad combination at work. We actually did well, considering.

Sales were DEAD, especially for snacks. Normally this is our busiest time of year. Fortunately some things like sodas and coffee are selling well.

I took all the cash out of the machines and counted it. We also sold the other vendor a huge bucket of quarters. I got paid after work, Yay!

I recieved a large delivery, got sandwiches, and helped Ron with stocking. Plenty of heavy lifting!

After work, the bank, and then Walmart. I got him the rechargable massager. He likes it a lot. Like I told him, if you want one, buy it now. They have over a dozen to choose from. He's happy, I'm happy.

He called me when I was halfway through shopping, he needed to go to the bathroom. I got very angry (inside). I get tired of taking him to the bathroom and waiting on him. I get tired of helping him sometimes.

It's a natural, human emotion. I didn't let it show, but as I walked over to him I realized:
1. I was hungry. I always get cranky when I'm hungry.
2. I was sleep deprived. See above.
3. I was worried sick about my Dad, in surgery at that moment.
4. I wouldn't want Ron to be a jerk about helping me.

Ron was sitting in his wheelchair. I had him grab onto the handle of the shopping cart and I pulled cart and husband over to the Men's room. I waited outside. Then we went to the pharmacy and got his pills. I took him back to the food court (he hates the bell ringing).

I got everything I wanted at Walmart, still had some money left. I even got small styrofoam plates (Cat plates). When I give the cats a smelly can of cat food, I put it on the plate, then throw it away when they're done.

I talked to Dad again - he ate some Jello. Good. I love him and it's hard to see him sick. I encouraged Mom to take care of herself.

Speaking of, I'm going to go get something online.

[Zer]

Glad your dad sounds good after that surgery. Already eating jello? That's fast work after what sounds like serious surgery. Gangrene? Euwww!

[Houston Heather]

Yeah, they want to stabilize his blood thinner levels before he goes home. But "Gangrene" and "your father" and "Cut him open" are not words you want to hear in the same sentence.

I still remember signing the consent form so they could drill a hole in Ron's head and install a pressure monitor. He looked like something out of a bad sci-fi movie - a printer cable-looking thing sticking out of his head. Fortunately he didn't need it for long.

I poked around on Ebay and found some wonderful knitting patterns, a pashmina shawl (more on that in a bit), and 2 gorgeous crocheted shawls. It took me forever to decide on a color for the pashmina shawl. I finally went with lavender, not because it'll really match anything in my wardrobe, but because it's gorgous. Since the shawl is only $6/7 with shipping I'd have no problem ordering a few more if I love it. Black, white, red, and purple. They do a buy 4 get one free so I could even get one for my aunt for free. She'd love that. That fries my internet budget for the week ($25) but NOT BAD! 2 lace shawls, a "wool" shawl, and pattern books!

I only do buy it now items on ebay. I have impulse control problems, bipolar disorder which just adds to that occasionally, and I want to be responsible. It works for me.

I lost a pound last night - yesterday I tried adding some soy milk - about 1 cup of unsweetened, and it obviously agrees with my metabolism. I'm about to dump lovely shredded cheese all over 2 sausage patties, get them nice and melty, and gobble them down with some medication.

I am pertty groggy today - see I left in the typo, so only 3 tablets today. We'll probably go to work tomorrow for an hour or so, jut to check on the kids.

I can't spell so off I go for my nap.

[Zer]

Pashmina? Got to google that! Can't go wrong with lavender. I see a LOT of purple in my wardrobe lately, probably a sign I'm drifting into a purple haze of lavender scent and other stuff that old gals go for as they slip over the hill.

[Houston Heather]

Hey, I'm only 34. You're just seasoning, Zer. I've always loved purple.

What a wild weekend. My aunt told me my cousin (her boy) had Lasik surgery and complications. He's doing better now so Ron doesn't need to give him the "You can be a blind vendor" speech.

Dad was thrilled when I mentioned I'd like to mail him some biographies and history books. Good. Those get shipped off tomorrow. First, I get my photos from Walmart and throw a few in the box.

I plan to include a photo of Bubba next to his dead rat, with a note on the back "The cats got you a present! Get well soon!" Dad is not a fan of cats, but he tolerated mine because I love them.

Ron's going to have us go to work, then Walmart, then he goes to Taco Bell. He eats and goes home. I go to the PO, mail my things, and maybe hit a store on my way home. He doesn't have to wait around on me, and I don't feel bad about making him wait. I also get to go somewhere fun if I want.

Today we go to Starbucks, see if that works. Then home, nap.

Today's a cook day for me. I'm going to do dishes and cook up all my meat. Yum.

Oh, I lost more weight, down to 171. My body obviously likes decaf coffee and soymilk.

[Houston Heather]

My Dad's doing worse. In addition to PVC's (bad heartbeats), he also has a partially collapsed lung. He's wheezing a lot.

I tried to call him but he was sleeping. I'm glad he's sleeping, but I sure wish he were better.

I did some cooking, cleaning, and laundry. I need to go to bed pretty soon, too.

[Houston Heather]

I got 2 really nice and sincere compliments on my weight loss today. I thought that was great.

Sales are still dead. Ron can certainly work in the time we're there.

My Dad's doing better, but his liver function tests are a little weird. I pre-emptively offered him half my liver if he needed it. They do it all the time. See, the liver has an amazing capacity to regrow. They could take out half my liver, give it to Dad, and we'd both grow whole new livers out of it. He's welcome to it if he ever needs it, although my "Psychiatric illness under treatment" might be a deal breaker. A stupid one, IMO.

Today was incredibly busy. Work, then Walmart (photos are not ready yet), went to Taco Bell for Ron, Ron left Taco Bell, I stayed and went to the Post Office.

Boy, that was not fun. Waiting in line forever, holding a 7 pound box. Ick. Finally got it mailed. 7 pounds for $10 actually makes me proud to work at the Post Office. I used the flat rate priority mail box. Cool. Mom and Dad will get it by the end of the week.

Once I got that finished, I went ahead and hit the thrift stores. Talked to Mom, Dad's doing better. Good.

Rode the bus to a big craft store/connection point for the other bus to get me home. I recalled they were having a freaking FANTASTIC sale on a gorgeous dressy mohair/metallic yarn. I got 8 skeins. My brain melted.

I also bought some cute lace leggings at Walmart. Only $7, but I had to wash them twice because the black dye bleeds.

I came home, had a good trip home. Handed off a Hot-hands (handwarmer packet) to a deserving soul who acted as if I'd given her a winning lotto ticket. I thought she was sweet.

Now home, I cooked all the raw meat in the fridge, a bunch of eggs, froze most of the cooking, and ate. I was up a little in weight today but I'm sure that's related to my lack of sleep and general stress level.

But Dad could be going home tomorrow. Yay!

[Houston Heather]

I had a good day today.

I went into work and did a lot of jobs you wouldn't see as glamourous. I mopped some floors, emptied the "yuck bucket" - cleaned up a mess in the coffee machine that's my fault, took out the trash, got rid of the coffee grounds, etc.

Some guys from Maintenace were mopping the tile floors and I was teasing them about "joining the party" as I mopped the inside of the coffee machine. Someone had a radio and turned it on, and the guys were singing along with the Christmas music.

I told them I liked them too much to ruin their day with my singing. Told them I sound like 2 cats fighting . They liked it. Anyway, I was working and I told Ron, I love working here, I love helping you, and I love my job.

I like helping the customers and making sure everything is perfect for them. It makes me happy.

Since the weather is overcast, cold, and damp we came home after work. I worked on cleaning the bathroom for a while and dug my dressy shoes out of the garage. Well, they used to be my dressy shoes.

Ron said he'll loan me the debit card to get some new ones tomorrow. I told him I won't go nuts with it.

That's it for now, I need my nap.