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My 7 Cups Dream Journal

User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues April 19th, 2023

Entry 1: The Boxes of Cats


It was a little strange but what I remember most is visiting a house that was in my old neighborhood that I’d recently moved from (it really wasn’t, so dream logic) but I came back to collect something I left or my mother left.


It was very sad and the people who were there now were sort of okay with me wandering around and looking. I kept noticing the signs that I’d once lived there (painted over places that still revealed chipped paint and stuff I recognized from my apartment).


Then I looked beneath a couch or table and found boxes full of kittens. Two boxes were full of meowing kittens in water that the new home owners had no idea were there, and one more box held a very dead cat that was an older one from a previous litter. All of the kittens were starving without their mother and I knew that it was the reason why the older one passed.


The new owners suddenly smelled the dead cat and I took it upon myself to get rid of it. When I came back an hour later all of the kittens were gone, and when I was walking past another house I could see all the kittens. They’d all grown up into adult cats!

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User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues OP March 17th

I visited my mom this morning- her phone line and WiFi were cut off because of an outage in her area, so I spent a little time trying to fix that before I found it was a wait and see type of thing. I put numbers on the caps of her pill bottles so she’d know to take them in sequence to be sure she’d had the full dose.

I ordered her some groceries but because her phone was down I waited around for the delivery to arrive. After that I called up her pharmacy and spoke to ai to order her a refill of the medicine she’d lost at the hospital- I decided to walk up to the place and ask a real person at the pharmacy how long it might take to get it.

Thankfully it was just ten minutes, then I spoke to someone else to change the phone number attached to my mom’s pharmacy account- I switched it to my own number so I’d get the head’s up about her refills as well as finally setting up her CVS app so I could order her prescriptions through it.

The only trouble today was my mom breaking and buying cigarettes and smoking. She’s been frustrated and was so bored without a working tv since all her channels are streamed that she took off her nicotine patch and smoked. Said it was the best thing ever, and I’m just surprised it took her five days to get to that point.

User Profile: bestVase7265
bestVase7265 March 19th

So sorry that I haven't typed for a few days. My inbox here keeps disappearing. It sounds like we are in much the same boat (although smoking isn't my mom's issue). I am trying to get her to eat and take her meds. I am going back and forth for lots of doctor appointments. In the process I have injured my back and have pain radiating down my leg. I am trying to really rest today so hopefully some healing will start. Lots of heating pad and ice. It has to get better for both of us eventually. I think about you often.

13 replies
User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues OP March 19th

Hi there. I’m so sorry about your back! Getting them to eat can be pretty difficult. I usually start by offering something they really like, then adding in something healthy or full of protein.

I went to my mom again yesterday because she had lost her bus card and was panicking about being stuck at home.

I found it for her- it had made its way back into the purse I’d washed for her last Saturday and she’d not thought to look for it there.

I made her scrambled eggs with some of those little Banquet sausages I can quickly heat in the microwave. I made her a cup of instant coffee.

Once all that was done I’d sat with her to try and make her appointments for the primary dr and cardiologist. We’d started with the cardiologist and when my mom heard that her appointment would be in April she flipped out and said she’d do nothing at all so no appointments and yelled at me to hang up.

I apologized to the lady on the phone who was helping us make the appointment and had warned us about the HMO requiring a referral. The lady said not to worry, that I was doing an amazing job.

I followed my mom out for her to smoke another cigarette. We got to pet a lovely dog, and another dog pranced up and jumped up on me for pets and love. I swear, animals can sense stress and probably saw us both shining like beacons or something.

My mom felt better after the dogs and the cigarette. I followed her back inside and told her that I’d do the dishes before I went home. She tried to wave me away then looked at the dishes and agreed it was best if J handled it.

Once I was done I gave her a hug and assured her I’d be back maybe by the weekend depending on if I heard back from the people I had an interview with last week that I had to reschedule because of the emergency.

My new phone appointment is Monday at noon, so I’m seeing my mom tomorrow to go shopping for her. I just want to have my weekend free so I can do my chores.

Please get all the rest today, bestVase.

12 replies
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bestVase7265 March 21st

I have been doing lots of resting today and things are minimally better. I still cannot sit down, but I might be able to tomorrow. Lots of heat, little ice, some back exercises, getting up every 30 minutes, taking ibuprofen and using a TENS unit a little.

But mom is worrisome. She only ate one cheese sandwich and drank water the entire day. She is also much less with it than she was before the accident. We think one of the new meds was prescribed at too high a dosage because she is over 80. I put in a message to the neurologist to try to decrease the medication but I don't think that will happen until Monday at the earliest. There are so many details to handle between the four doctors and all their tests and appointments. We will go back on Monday and probably Saturday as well. @integrityblues

11 replies
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integrityblues OP March 21st

I’m glad to hear that you’re focusing on rest and little exercises and something to reduce inflammation.

A worrisome mom is a big deal. I do hope the neurologist gets back to you about the dosage, and that she eats more than a single cheese sandwich.

I visited my mom and it was so hot here in California that I brought a huge water bottle, Gatorade, and an umbrella. I’d woken up an hour and a half late, scrambled out of bed and missed my shot but took it with me so I could take it there…I was distracted by some things I had to do for mom then forgot about the shot entirely. I’d missed the window for it but also it was way too hot. I discarded the shot once I was home because heat reduces the effectiveness of the medicine.

I brought her these mini banana cream pie things and a couple of banana parfaits, a fresh coffee, and chatted with her about what she’d like from the store.

I went shopping to get her preferred tv dinners, small cans of soda, and more Cream of Wheat and instant oatmeal. I got her some new things like microwave cups of mashed potatoes and macaroni too.

I went home after I put it all away and got her a glass full of ice for her mini can of Sprite.

10 replies
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bestVase7265 March 23rd

We both have to make sure we don't get too distracted to take care of ourselves over the next few weeks.

We are here again for mom's doctor appointment tomorrow. This one is hematology. Hopefully the neurologist also returns my email and we get some results back from the primary care doctor.

Luckily the back and leg weren't too bad until the last half hour or so. We will see how it goes tomorrow on the long drive back. I have to teach at 5:30. @integrityblues

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bestVase7265 March 27th

I hope that you are doing okay. I know what a challenging period that we are both going through. @integrityblues

8 replies
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integrityblues OP March 27th

I’m just tired. My mom has began rereading her medical papers and tried to open up the argument again about how they don’t say she needs a referral so she doesn’t have to go because someone lied- I told her yesterday that I didn’t want to argue over it. That I already knew what needed to be done for real and that she wasn’t interested in it.

I’m going to see her on Saturday.

7 replies
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bestVase7265 March 29th

I know that exhaustion. My mom is luckily being really agreeable with stuff at the moment which isn't really like her. That can also be a little nerve wracking. Her memory and cognitive function is definitely lower. Lots of not knowing what time it is or what day it is. But it is getting a little better I think.

Just have to keep looking for mini bright spots and try to keep it all together. We will see how this next week goes. @integrityblues

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bestVase7265 March 31st

Sending peace. @integrityblues

5 replies
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integrityblues OP March 31st

I’m so sorry. I’ve just been so tired

4 replies
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bestVase7265 April 2nd

Why are you apologizing for being tired? You are allowed to be tired. No explanation necessary. We will both find our way to more healing and less exhaustion eventually. @integrityblues

3 replies
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integrityblues OP April 2nd

Thanks

2 replies
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bestVase7265 April 4th

I hope that this weekend is feeling minimally better. @integrityblues

1 reply
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integrityblues OP April 4th

It’s been a stressful week, that’s for sure. I’m seeing my mom tomorrow and bringing her diapers. I’ll clock in to do the chores and clock out to spend time with her, then go home so I can rest up.

I’d have posted earlier today but each time I tried I couldn’t see the space where I’d type my post or comment.

I dreamt about having to clean up my kitchen and was finding massive spiders in all of my cabinets. It was so gross and scary.

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integrityblues OP April 5th

I got to see my mom today- she’s sort of coming around to the idea that she needs the follow ups for her primary and the cardiologist and she also wants to find a new dentist. She’d choked on her dinner a few nights ago and puked it up, so she might be more willing to see the dentist to get those new dentures so she can chew better.

I brought her the boxes of tissues and larger bags of diapers I’d purchased at my local CVS since hers is usually out.

I made her some scrambled eggs and an instant oatmeal for breakfast and then went shopping for her. I got back and did chores the rest of the chores then left for home.

I’m just worn out. Next week I’ve got an appointment for sports medicine where they check out my shoulder. I’m going to ask for the shot this time. I also might be preparing for a menstrual cycle.

I’m hoping that things will go smoothly.

7 replies
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bestVase7265 April 6th

I can understand that worn out feeling and you certainly deserve to feel that way. I am feeling that way too. There are so many details to handle and it is such a roller coaster.

But today at least I feel like we both just might make it. Every time we think that we won't survive we do. I would love it to be easier, even by a little bit. And it will be eventually for both of us. But the knowledge that we are making it can carry us forward even as exhausted as we both are.

Do keep trying to find some time for taking care of you. @integrityblues

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bestVase7265 April 8th

Sending more strength and peace. @integrityblues

5 replies
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integrityblues OP April 8th

Thanks. I had to go to my younger sister and help pay her rent with a 19 dollar money order and got her another one to pay for her new mailbox key.

I bought her something to eat and drink, then left for my mom’s so I could tell her the good news and be paid back for covering the cost this time. I’m going back this Saturday and will help my mom with mopping and finding a new dentist, and also asked my younger sister to come over with the dog so my mom could see them both and I could help get her started with Social Security

4 replies
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integrityblues OP April 8th

*Trigger Warning- mentions of an abortion

In addition to all that, my younger sister also revealed that she’d gotten pregnant.

Her now ex boyfriend says it’s not his, she’s a regular drug abuser and smoker, and while I was there she was asking me what I thought she should do…I told her that it was good she’d taken the test and confirmed it at the dr, but she really shouldn’t keep this pregnancy.

She’s getting referred to obstetrics but this might be another thing I’ll have to talk to her about, in addition to telling her that she’s got to invest in condoms and birth control for safe sex since the documents she showed me indicated regular testing for STIs as well

3 replies
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bestVase7265 April 12th

Sorry that I missed a day. It is rough I am sure trying to handle both your mom and your sister. But you are doing a great job.

Things for me have unluckily worsened. My mother reentered the hospital and we are expecting a diagnosis of terminal cancer in the next week or so. She is in horrible pain. I spent two hours yesterday holding her hand as she said "help" every 30 seconds. It was really traumatic. Today was a little better, but I fear that the doctor is going to wreck things again because she switched out the pain meds that were working to something that might not.

This is in addition to my father being in hospice himself for the last 7 months and four surgeries this year for me. I am so done at this point. @integrityblues

2 replies
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integrityblues OP April 12th

I’m so sorry. That all sounds very scary. I hope that the dr doesn’t switch the pain meds on a whim and make things worse.

When you get a chance please pet the cute cats and get a hug.

The only thing that helped me today was my sister arriving late but still bringing her dog to see our mom. It was very sweet to watch mom and Puppy cuddle.

I’m going to get the shopping done for Monday- I’m making a pineapple upside down cake for my group because it’s my late friend’s birthday. She would have been 68.

1 reply
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bestVase7265 April 14th

I am trying to do my best as I know you are too. We are now back home for a few days. It will be helpful to teach. I am going to trust that everyone will do their best to care for mom. @integrityblues

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caringVoice8397 April 8th

@integritybluesThat dream feels like a mix of loss and hidden pain, like you’re revisiting something from your past that still needs care and attention.

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integrityblues OP April 14th

I didn’t get to make the cake. My mom was fretting and fretting over her medicines so I came over this morning and shared some of my old friend’s favorite coffee with her, and then solved as many problems as I was able to.

I called her other pharmacy about the meds and they’d said they would fill the ones with refills and send a fax about the ones that didn’t have any. Then I made her a follow up appointment with her primary so we’d get some input from the drs.

I ordered a new cell phone charger for my mom because my younger sister never brought it back. She should get it this Saturday.

I’m not sure if I sent in my most recent IHSS paystub yet, so I printed it out and will take it to Social Security tomorrow.

Today’s gamers group was canceled because the wow worker had a medical emergency for her pet cat. I hope they’re both okay.

6 replies
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bestVase7265 April 16th

It sounds like you are being quite the problem solver. That is good as long as you get to rest some too.

We are home for just a few days until we return this weekend to our round of problem solving. Mom should hopefully be moved to rehab today. Her pain is just a little less but we still don't really know about the cancer. @integrityblues

5 replies
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integrityblues OP April 18th

Yes. I’m doing my best to manage her stuff and get enough rest. I’m resting and doing my own chores this weekend.

A couple days ago I went to my mom to shop and to fetch her prescriptions. The drawback of that pharmacy is they don’t contact anyone about the medication being ready, I had to call that morning to make sure it was there for pickup.

My mom wanted to come along to get the medicines, so I agreed and we took the bus together. It tired her out but she was happy to be outside. The day before that she’d tried going shopping but didn’t have the energy or breath to do it.

I hope that your own round of problem solving goes smoothly.

4 replies
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bestVase7265 April 20th

The rest is the tough part. I am glad that you were able to get outside with your mom. I am sure that she appreciated it.

My mom is now in rehab. She was pretty bad yesterday but was more engaged today. They did the first real full scale bath in several weeks which was quite painful for her but at least they got her in a regular T shirt.

My sister starts visiting for a few days tomorrow which will hopefully allow me to step back for a week. My neck and back are now in severe pain and it is difficult to drive the 2.5 hours each way there even when my husband is forced to do all the driving @integrityblues

3 replies
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integrityblues OP April 20th

I’m so glad she’s made it to rehab! The bath must have been difficult but getting into a t-shirt was probably more comfortable than a hospital gown.

I’m so sorry about the back and neck pain. Ice or heat, ibuprofen or Tylenol, and gentle stretching!

I did all my laundry this afternoon and overextended myself. I’m all sore!

I’m going to my mom tomorrow so I can escort her to the dr. I promised her a nice Starbucks coffee when we get her back home- I’m going to let her enjoy her coffee there while I hop over to the nearby CVS for her prescription.

Then I’ll go home

2 replies
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bestVase7265 April 22nd

Sorry that I didn't write last night. I did mean to. My mom passed away this morning in her sleep. I am sad but grateful that she isn't in pain any more. My sister and dad aren't taking it too well and I definitely go through some hard moments of grief myself. But we will find a way forward. @integrityblues

1 reply
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integrityblues OP April 22nd

I’m so sorry, bestVase. You don’t have to apologize. Please just get hugs and pet the cats, or do whatever else that may ease the grief

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integrityblues OP April 22nd

When I went to my mom on Monday for that appointment she flipped out in the middle of her vitals being taken. She hobbled away just because the nurse couldn’t immediately tell her how much weight she’d gained. I apologized to everyone there and left the office, loudly saying “Six pounds!” as I approached the elevator where she was stuck waiting.

It was a messed up day. While we were at that building we confirmed that the reason why that pharmacy wasn’t filling prescriptions or getting faxes back for those two medications was because they’d been written by a hospitalist. Mom got more angry and I directed her to just keep going to the bus stop so we could get her closer to home and coffee.

We got off in front of her neighborhood Starbucks and I sat her beneath an umbrella for a coffee and a danish. I told her to sit there while I got her other RX refill from her CVS, then I took her to her house.

All in all, it was a 7 hour shift.

12 replies
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bestVase7265 April 24th

I am sure that it was a long shift. I hope that you got today to rest. You very much deserve it.

I am okay. The day felt minimally more manageable as we started all of the paperwork and preparations for a memorial service in a few months. But there are clearly moments where I just break down. I think those will be normal for a while. I will finally return home tomorrow. @integrityblues

11 replies
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integrityblues OP April 24th

I got a little rest yesterday then did therapy and gamers group today. My mom called to say that she’d done all her laundry and was sore and cramping.

She even called up her drs office to apologize and reschedule her appointment. It’s for Monday at 3:45. I’m going to try and accompany her but it’s going to be such a long visit that I won’t get home until dark. She’ll say she can do it herself but I just want her to be safe.

I’m glad you’re doing okay. Tasks can be helpful, planning for the memorial and doing all the paperwork is also very good.

Please get plenty of rest once you get home.

10 replies
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bestVase7265 April 26th

I am trying to rest a little more, but it is interesting how hard it is to get my brain to slow down. The details feel pretty overwhelming, especially at night. Right now writing an obituary feels really hard, but I need to get it done.

I was able to finally see my son in his play the last two days. That helped my heart greatly. It was a comedy which at least made me smile for a little while.

I hope that your doctor visit with your own mom goes better than last time. You will muddle your way through I am sure. @integrityblues

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integrityblues OP April 26th

Seeing your son in a nice comedy play sounds really lovely. I’m glad you got the chance to laugh.

I got so sick last night with stomach issues last night that I’d said I couldn’t go to see my mom today… when I spoke to her this morning I had to change my tune.

Yesterday was awful for her. My younger sister visited with or without the dog, and my mom was set off in a spiral of anxiety and paranoia. She was outside her place yelling and screaming about where the dog was and even going up to cars that looked like the one she said my sister was dropped off in and trying to open the doors and yelling at the drivers.

Her breathing got so bad she called 911 and when they came she refused assistance for her breathing and demanded they help my sister who was not responding to my mother or sleeping and not waking up. They left, confused.

My mom also drank kombucha and after a few hours pooped herself in the kitchen and was only able to finish in a garbage bag that still had some of her freshly cleaned clothes in.

She cleaned herself up with Lysol wipes and was wondering why she was hurting so much.

I absolutely had to go and see her today…

I had to clean up what was left of the mess in the kitchen, then search through papers for a letter that frightened her into thinking she was going to lose either her housing or her food stamps.

Couldn’t find it so I clocked out. Then she realized that she didn’t have enough food so I went and got her some. By the time I got it all to her it was raining and I wasn’t dressed for that weather.

I’m so worn out

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Minimum00 May 4th

@integrityblues Thanks, that neighbour. When I read that the kittens were gone, I was a bit upset. Happy ending.

rugby-yay.gif

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integrityblues OP May 5th

It was a long day. I got to my mom and after I called HACLA to confirm whether or not a meeting was going to happen I forgot to check in. It turns out that there’s an inspection on Wednesday!

I took my mom to the dr who confirmed that of course my mom has to be on the prescriptions she got from the cardiologist. Her blood pressure isn’t great so she’s got a new medicine for it.

I got her home and went home myself. I’m going back tomorrow so I can help her prepare for the inspection.

8 replies
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bestVase7265 May 6th

At least you knew about the inspection before it happened. I hope that it goes well. It sounds like the meds that your mom is taking will help.

We started the exhausting process of dealing with bits of mom's stuff today. She had an entire wardrobe just filled with ribbon, wrapping paper, and gift bags. It is going to be a long process. We will also pick up her ashes tomorrow. @integrityblues

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integrityblues OP May 6th

Just remember to give yourself breaks between tasks.

I did the cleaning to prepare for the inspection tomorrow- I’m sore and exhausted but her place looks and smells better. I threw out the tv my younger sister dumped there too.

I’ll go back tomorrow to assist mom with the inspection- mostly keeping her calm and relaxed. I got her a cheap Netflix subscription and set it up on her TV. She spent the time I was cleaning watching The Crown.

6 replies
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bestVase7265 May 8th

I am trying. It was a rough few days. My husband got sick and I had to leave him sleeping and go pick up mom's ashes alone. I had to have him then drive the 3 hours home because the sciatica in the car has me screaming in pain. I now have stronger medication, but I am only going to take it for the longer car rides so I can ration the doses for when we have to go over there once a week for a few days. I am going to try to set up PT as well maybe.

I hope that the inspection went well. You did a lot to get ready for it. @integrityblues

5 replies
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integrityblues OP May 8th

I’m sorry it’s been so rough. PT sounds like the best option for the pain.

My mom’s inspection went well- it was done over FaceTime since the young man had a full schedule of vacant homes to inspect. The only blemish was one of the dials doesn’t work on the stove top. I can try and push for it to be fixed, so we’ve got a year till the next inspection to make that happen or the inspection wouldn’t pass, which reflects badly on both the tenant and apartment owners.

I came to see her today because it’s her 70th birthday. I brought several of her favorite mini banana cream pies, a birthday cake pop from Starbucks, and a filet of fish from McDonald’s. I gave her plenty of hugs, then went home.

I dropped off my paystub at my local Social Security on the way home, and after I got home and set down my dinner I took out the trash and recycling so I wouldn’t have to do it tomorrow.

My reward for my super long week is a three day weekend to recharge. I also need to work on some job applications and prepare for a drs appointment on the 13th!

4 replies
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bestVase7265 May 10th

A recharge weekend sounds awesome. You did good and made your mom happy for her birthday. The inspection stuff sounds like it went well.

I didn't have to get into a car today so my pain was a little more manageable. But the doctor wants me to go down on the Tylenol dose because it could be impacting my liver. We will see how that goes when I have to get back in a car tomorrow. Trying to do lots of grading before the crazy week ahead sets in. @integrityblues
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integrityblues OP May 10th

I’m glad your pain was manageable. Heat or ice could be helpful for your pain, but no laying down since I’ve read that makes it worse.

I wonder if you could get something like Diclofenic? It’s a cream that has ibuprofen in it but since it absorbs through the skin it’s easier on the liver. It’s what I use for my shoulder.

Please have a lovely Mother’s Day, bestVase! Make sure they take you out to breakfast or dinner!

2 replies
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bestVase7265 May 12th

Lying down is really the only option when you can't sit at all. Not even for a 10 minute meal. I cannot stand all day so I lie down for a bit and then get up and walk, do exercises, etc.  The car remains the worst. I do have a heating pad/massage unit for the car now and I am hoping between that and the muscle relaxant and the ibuprofen that this time the 3 hour drive will be better.  I also have PT, an orthopedist, a massage therapist, and a chiropractor scheduled. I am determined to solve this somehow.

Mother's Day went fairly well though the constant standing was a bit of an issue. We had a nice meal out. I am hoping that you had a good restful weekend yourself. You deserved it. @integrityblues

1 reply
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integrityblues OP May 12th

You can do it!

When you have to stand you can try leaning against walls or counters. Exercising is good too. I’m so glad you had a nice meal for Mother’s Day.

I had as restful a weekend as I could but I still woke up this morning worn out and needing more sleep. I got out and still went to gamers group, got lunch, and got back home for more rest.

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integrityblues OP May 14th

I had to go to the dr. My blood tests came back with the usual (my triglycerides suck) and something new. I’ve got something triggering my immune system, but I have no idea what’s causing it- a quick internet search on the way home suggests that it could be a bacterial infection or stress.

I’m only just thinking that it could be a sign of an upcoming MS flare.

I’m just tired.

10 replies
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bestVase7265 May 16th

Sorry to miss once. It has been a stressful few days as the car had massive issues when we went to go leave and we have to drive back 5 hours today to pick it up.

I can imagine your stress and exhaustion levels are triggering certain things. Both of our bodies are saying slow down and we are doing our best to do that. I hope that you can breathe a bit this weekend. @integrityblues

9 replies
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integrityblues OP May 16th

It’s okay, bestVase. Car trouble sucks a whole bunch.

I’ve got today for a bit of catching up on chores and rest, then I’m going to see my mom tomorrow briefly so I can put together her pill organizer for the week.

8 replies
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bestVase7265 May 18th

I hope that your brief visit with your mom went well.

Today was college graduation for my students and my son so it was a big day in the midst of all of the other stuff. I was worried that I would be able to appreciate it with all of my pain and stress. But overall I did okay and it was nice to see him finish. @integrityblues

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integrityblues OP May 18th

I’m so glad you were able to be there! I hope that you were able to take a nice rest after.

Today went on a lot longer than I bargained for, mostly because my mom had hidden that she needed more done. I clocked in to sort pills, clocked out. Then ran off to get refills of medicines, and as I was getting ready to leave she mentioned she didn’t have as much groceries as she implied when we spoke on Friday.

It all worked out because I’d chosen to visit on the day of a half marathon in her neck of the woods, so staying longer to do the shopping meant I didn’t have to walk a mile to the next working bus stop because of the detours. I’d had to do that in the morning when the bus driver warned us all that he was going to be turning off that street for the detour.

But I did have fun with my mom today. We watched Netflix. I got her into Lucifer because Tom Ellis is very cute and the irreverent humor has had her laughing all day. I made sure to get her more frozen meals, danishes because she asked so nicely, and more milk/coffee creamer. Now she can have hot and cold cereal, coffee, and danishes, and other soft foods for her sore gums.

I made sure to take the hottest shower once I got home again, and now I’m hoping to get a good amount of rest so I can attend gamer’s group.

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User Profile: bestVase7265
bestVase7265 May 20th

A nice relaxed day with your mom. That sounds like something to remember and hold close to your heart even if you did have to stay longer.

I am still recovering a bit from the graduation, but I have just started the 3 day workshop that I have every year. I made it through day one so we will call that a victory. Pretty tired tonight though and my back aches. I have to stand up often. The chiropractor thinks that I have a herniated disk possibly. But now I have to wait another week on the x rays because the orthopedist had to reschedule. @integrityblues

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User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues OP May 20th

I’m getting ready for another day with my mom. I’m just really tired after my ms appointment. The dr mentioned that I’ve slipped from prediabetes to diabetes according to my recent blood test, but he mentioned that if I diet and exercise I can get back to the prediabetes range.

I’m rethinking what kind of drink I’ll get from Starbucks.

I’m glad you’ve made it through the first day of the workshop and that you’re getting things in order for x-rays. Back pain is no fun.

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User Profile: bestVase7265
bestVase7265 May 22nd

It is hard to care for your mom and care for you too, especially the diet and exercise part. But it is important not to forget to do it so the stress doesn't control you.

I made it through two and half days of the workshop but gave up this afternoon to rest. I have finished grading so now I can start planning for next year. I have my first physical therapy evaluation tomorrow and then have to do the bad drive again the next day to go back to my parents' house for more cleaning all weekend.

I am trying to just focus on things a day at a time. I hope that you can do the same. @integrityblues

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User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues OP May 22nd

Thanks bestVase. I’m glad you got through so much of your workshop and finished the grading. Make sure you plan cleaning rest breaks and have everything you need to handle the pain for the ride there and back.

Good luck for your evaluation!

My mom confirmed the time of her friend’s party on Saturday. I’m going to arrive early so I can wash her outfit and then we’ll be picked up by an Uber around noon to drive to a nearby park. I’ve told her that it’s all going to be okay, that I don’t mind the potentially large group or interacting with any of them because I’m very good at polite chatter.

It’s not going to be a long visit since her friends know how tired mom gets, so after it’s over and she sends us home, I’ll make sure my mom is comfy and settled (most likely ready to nap as soon as we get back into her house) I’ll give her a big hug and go home.

Tomorrow I’ll focus on my own chores. I need to do a load of laundry and mop the floors.

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bestVase7265 May 24th

I hope that your visit with your mom and her friends has gone well. You were very kind to take her because I know social situations are a little nerve wracking. But it sounds like you have some good boundaries set up beforehand and it will be doable.

We are back at my mom's tonight to sort things for the next several days. We got the kitchen done today. There were so many spices, some going back to the 1980s I am sure. We will see how things go tomorrow. I am glad my husband and son are here to help get the things out so that I can sort them. But it is all quite emotional and physical. @integrityblues

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User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues OP May 24th

It wasn’t bad, just draining- I’d accidentally forgot to take my morning pills when I was rushing to leave so I was tired and also had some issues feeling like I was going to burp up stomach acid.

My mom had fun, though, and that was the goal. I’ll come back next week to help mail out my younger sister’s rent money order.

Good on you guys for finishing up the kitchen. You’ve set up some great positive momentum for the task, just schedule regular rest breaks!

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User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues OP May 26th

I’m so worn out. I’ve been waiting for my period for weeks and it finally showed up but it’s weird, not as I usually experience it in symptoms or flow.

My mom called the day before to say she’d lost her towels, only pillow and one of the nice warm jackets she got for Christmas by leaving them in a dryer at the laundromat. She couldn’t find them when she went back, so yesterday I ordered new towels and brand new pillows. She’ll pay me back later for the cost, I’m just glad she can sleep and rest comfortably.

I’m going to her tomorrow so I can help with the rest of the laundry and mail out the money order to my younger sister.

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User Profile: bestVase7265
bestVase7265 May 27th

Sorry for missing last night. I get so tired at some points that I just can't remember what day of the week it is even.

Visiting to work on the house is particularly draining especially with my bad back. But we got more done and now I have a series of appointments this week to try to figure out my medical stuff better. But I know it's mainly the stress of all of the sorting and arranging and figuring out the legal and medical stuff. Today involved a bunch of dealing with the DMV, the bank, and the health insurance company.

Sorry about the sudden cycle and having to deal with your mom's linens as well. That does sound stressful and draining. But we take it one step at a time. @integrityblues

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User Profile: integrityblues
integrityblues OP May 27th

That’s okay, bestVase. You’re doing a huge amount of work! One step at a time, every time even though it makes me grit my teeth the go slowly for certain stuff.

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