Jughead's Baltimore Blog, Our Life With Multiple Sclerosis

The Wife On Vacation And The Church Garden Died

2012-01-08T08:40:00.003-05:00

The wife is in Punta Cana for the week, soaking up the sun at an all inclusive resort. She and 3 childhood friends set it up in honor of them all turning 50. The wife was a little reluctant to go, worried I would miss her too much, not remember to eat and stuff. Well, I will miss her, and the eating, yeah, right! Truth of the matter is I wish she would do this more often. I don't travel well, and she lives for it, so beam her up Scotty!

My garden idea at church turned out to be a flop! Like most things I've found, the garden idea was discovered too late. My plan was to put in a small plot, get the scouts at church, the younger parishioners, anyone interested in lending a hand to, well lend a hand. If the 15 or so churches in our area all did a small plot that would have been a lot of food for those who needed it. Thanks to the couple of people who did show an interest, I appreciate it. My fate is to have a mind that still has good ideas, but a body that can't carry them to fruition. Oh well, at least I still have my boyish grin!

Back Continues To Be A Problem, To Wheelchair Or Not Wheelchair

2011-12-19T23:19:00.003-05:00

Been paying for my pain management docs retirement home. I've had a series of injections, epidural, facet, and rhizotomy. Feels great when I have them, usually lasts a few weeks. We alternate between sides, 2 on the right, 1 on the left, you name it. Happy to have relief, but wouldn't mind if I could get a couple more weeks out of each one.

Energy level at an all time low. Stopped doing a lot of things, just don't have the giddy up anymore. Things like cooking have gotten tough, combination of it hurts to stand for too long, and the fatigue. Have an electric wheelchair out in the shed, is it time to bring it in the house? Thinking it would be better to get a really comfy chair to work from in the kitchen, keep my recliner at command central.

Cigna Still Playing Games, And Our Friend Turns 50 Today

2011-10-04T10:36:00.003-04:00

All my Cigna problems seemed to have been taken care of? We spoke with a young woman, and she spoke English, and she went above and beyond to take care of our problem, kudos to Sabrina. My new eobs were to post by 9/16/11, so I gave it until 9/20/11, then called when they didn't appear. Seemed all had been paid, but 7 claims, with 3 different doctors had been coded wrong and Cigna was going to seek a refund? I've been a professional patient for 25 years, never had them "code" me wrong once, it happened over a 3 month period 7 times with 3 docs? For shame Cigna, for shame!

My friend turned 50 today, she is considerably older than me and the wife, and she has lost her mind! She's not full blown crazy, but she is definitely a carrier. We went out with her and her family to Obrycki's to celebrate with an evening of fine food and revelry, it was very nice. Hope she has a nice, fun filled day, and that she is available to share my day when it comes, way down the road.

Numbness In Hands And Arms, And I Want To Be A Rabbit Rancher

2011-09-26T14:31:00.003-04:00

Make a fist, then clinch it 20 times a minute, that's what today brought. Also brought the blues on in torrents! It's always right there, like to say just below the surface, but I'd be lying. Don't know that the depression has ever not been on top? The speed at which the disability is accumulating isn't helping matters much either. Sure hoping this new hand jive doesn't stick around, not digging it at all!

Told the wife I was to sell everything, buy a house in the country, start a rabbit ranch. She told me she was pretty sure I was an idiot. asked her to let me know when she was certain. She asked, out of curiosity, what do rabbit ranchers wear? Seemed a silly inquiry, but I told her, like any rancher I would wear cowboy garb, leather chaps, cowboy hat, spurs, the whole 9 yards. She of course would wear the same thing as Miss October, she was a bunny! She informed me she had made up her mind, I had arrived.

No Jobs To Be Found, MS Eyes Slowing My Driving

2011-09-24T09:49:00.002-04:00

What a horrible time it is to be looking for work, any kind of work. The girl had a fit of a time finding a part time job, and the boy has worn himself out looking for full time work. Both have something, looks like the boy has found work at a retirement community, and the girl is queen cupcake at Cake Cottage. I'm trying to talk them both into buying a small spread and raising meat rabbits, not having much luck?

Not sure if I drive anymore, probably as much a question of confidence as anything else? My eyes are all messed, visual acuity almost gone. Been to neuros, been to eye doctors, even neuro eye doctors, and they all say the same thing, good question! The question being why does it feel like I'm looking through chocolate milk? Chocolate milk was a nice touch, right, made it much worse that regular. Gave my truck to the boy, so currently have no dedicated wheels, probably won't soup up my tricycle either? A small world has gotten smaller.

Stop Buying Congress Breakfast, and Kid Cleaning Crew

2011-09-21T20:23:00.005-04:00

Saw a piece on the news tonight, department of defense spent $12 for bran muffins, $10 brownies, even coffee that was something like a billion dollars an ounce, crazy! I imagine there are arguments, things are expensive, it's a hard job, you name it. Answer me this, why are we buying them anything at all? Who bought breakfast for you this morning? They want to cut costs, let them eat their grape nuts before they go to work! Write your congressional representative and tell them you want the free start breakfast stopped.

Kids covered the pool today, we are slugs, always late doing it. It took them longer to blow up the float than it did to put the cover on. Scared me to watch them try and figure out the best way to blow it up, but they did it! Since they were so quick with it, and I had captive minions, we did a little fall cleaning to knock down the dust. Kids ask great questions. Told the boy to take the picture off the wall and dust behind it, he said why? The girl came in, said why is he cleaning behind the pictures? I am actually scared to tell the wife this story!

Changing Neurologist, MS Changed Me

2011-09-09T11:27:00.000-04:00

Waiting to hear from the pharmacy, going to do a home infusion of go juice, maybe something that will become a regular gig. Neuro wants me to go see a different doc, one that specializes in MS, he thinks he's done all he can. Going to the MS clinic at U of MD hospital, been before, so they will work their magic, get me hitting on all cylinders again. Dr. Royal is actually the first neuro I went to see, way back in like 1985 when he was at Johns Hopkins. Do me a favor and keep your fingers crossed, one of the many things I can't do anymore.

I said in my last post I missed the old Andy, and I really do. More importantly I missed out on the opportunity to see what the Andy of 2011 would have been like without MS. What would I have done with my life, the last 14 years in particular? I was just retired as long as I worked on August 19th, 5100 days. I know I shouldn't think about things like that, but can't seem to get it out of mind. Would I have accomplished anything with that time, don't know. I do know it wouldn't have been as lonely as the past 14 years have been!

More Insurance Battles, MS Beat Me On Church Garden

2011-08-24T15:15:00.003-04:00

Got my insurance straitened out, if I had medicare part B! Got all new EOB's that said Cigna was paying the "supplemental" portion of the bills, medicare part B would cover the rest. WHAAA? Called them right away, the very nice young girl told me, well that's not right! Waiting for the 15 day period to run for new EOB's to see what's next. In the meantime I had to go to the emergency room, turned my ankle and thought I broke my wrist on the ensuing fall? Just add it to the bill!

Not sure how the church garden went this year? We got a ton of cucumbers, chard and tomatoes, but the weeds have taken over. People are telling me it was great for the first year, but I'm judging it off of what it could have been. It's hard when you have what you think is a great idea but can't work it to fruition like you would have when you were still a viable human. Having a spell where I really miss the old Andy!

Take My Medicare, Please!

2011-08-04T15:10:00.003-04:00

Having a horrible time with my insurance company, Cigna. The county switched us over from Mamsi, so that was my "choice". That was the hundredth time they switched up, no big deal, but it didn't go as seamless as it has in the past. Cigna kept sending everything to Mamsi, royal pain, but it all got straightened out, for everyone but me. Now Cigna keeps sending everything to Medicare, which would be fine if I had Medicare!

Here's the thing, I have part A, but nothing else. I didn't know I had part A until after I had back surgery last year, never got a card, no money came out of my check, but I had it starting June of 1999. Cigna keeps telling me, in a denial letter, that I need a copy of my eob, explanation of benefits, to show why Medicare part B didn't cover it. Medicare doesn't issue eob's to people who don't have Medicare! I think I have it straightened out, but it takes 15 days for them render a decision, each time, until then I'm afraid to go to the doctors.

MS Ate My Right Hand, And Home Surgery Was A Huge Success

2011-06-27T17:34:00.005-04:00

Coming to grips with how fast the right hand is becoming nothing more than a fancy paperweight. Coming to grips, damn, I'm funny even when I don't try! The dead feeling is spreading the same way the tingling spread. I remember thinking when that started to spread from one finger to the next, this ain't so bad. This ain't the same thing. I changed the mouse buttons months ago, index finger died first, so now I use my middle finger. Next three all went together, taking both my mouse operation finger, and one of my favorite means of communication!

Did some home surgery the other day, when you hear this one, well you're just going to laugh! I inherited my grandfather's hanging skin tags, lucky me. The luck part is they are in places that don't show. Had the brilliant idea to take care of one all by myself, show some initiative. Heard from boyhood that country folk would tie string around them, they wither, fall off in a few days. Nu-uh. Mine grew, engulfed with blood, and began to fester!

Father's day evening, around midnight, I hit it, started to bleed. I know, same thing I thought, time to cut it off. I gathered my supplies, went up into the bathroom, and on the third try, sliced it off! Not too, too painful, but it was a bleeder! Turns out it probably need a stitch or 2, but I didn't have any catgut, so I just lather on a thick coat of Neosporin and clogged the whole damn thing up. No infection, no bill, no waiting, done is done. The wife made me promise I'd let the doctor take care of the next one.

Laundry For The Homeless, and 3 Falls In The Yard

2011-06-14T01:02:00.003-04:00

Went for wash day with the homeless dudes, only one showed up to do laundry, and one to visit, have to admit, a little disappointed! Way too many lunches as well, I think I had like 20. Was able to get a few people to eat with me, they told me they didn't need them, just hated to see them go to waste. Also saw the worst example of parenting I've ever seen. Young couple came in, he had to go someplace, she said well I ain't watchin him, and she didn't! Twice I kind of herded him inside, 2 years old, mom said not to worry, he pretty much can take care of himself. Hopefully next week will have more guys show, if not may have to rethink the every week schedule.

Fell yesterday, actually it was like 3 times, all back related. Was doing a couple of things out in the yard, bent down for my cane, and boom, boom, boom, out go the lights! It's like somebody flips a switch and all control goes out, I collapse like all my bones dissolved. Got almost to my feet and it happened again, then again getting into the pool. I survived it, but I hurt my knee, got it pinned under me when I went down, hoping it feels better tomorrow. This is getting old, I want to use my get out of jail free card, with whom do I speak?

Great Pool Day, And Harford County Restaurant Week

2011-06-10T20:50:00.002-04:00

What a great pool day, not too hot, but the water was nice, perfect. The wife and me floated, talked, just the sound of the next door neighbors playing Yatzee. We got old at some point, missed it somehow? Had a couple of sodas, just us too, no music, it was great! If I knew it was this much fun I would have gotten old years ago!

Went out to dinner last night, Harford County had its restaurant week. Restaurant week is a load of places that have pick one of 3 appetizer, main dish and dessert, all for $20.11. Went with another couple to Silks, the club house at a golf course, not too impressed. Small portions, very small in fact, and not all that good. Surprised me because most of these places use it as a showcase for their places. I wouldn't go back, but the company was great!

Multiple Sclerosis And Heat, And Visiting Family In Boston

2011-06-09T09:51:00.003-04:00

It is like Africa hot in Baltimore, or what I think of as Africa hot, the days you see the lions laying next to gazelles, too hot to eat them. Gazelles could probably eat this lion it's so hot here! I walked out back to see about watering the farm, was dehydrated and had a heat stroke before I took 10 steps, that's hot! So damn humid, can't stand it. Luckily Multiple Sclerosis thrives in heat and humidity, so at least I'm not having any problems from that! Pool is great, but you have to get to and fro, not a small feat without the bioness off. I wish we had had a spring.

Planned a trip in August, going to Boston to visit family. The wife set everything up, the parents are going with us, stay with the aunt and uncle, should be a hoot! Be the first I've flown since the beast has gotten worse, curious how I'll do? Never liked flying, but now with balance and vision issues hope I don't scream all the way there! Tell me that wouldn't be funny, a 6'5", 300# man screaming for an hour and 15 minutes straight, the marshal would have to shoot me!

Koon's Chevy Salesman From Hell

2011-06-01T09:57:00.004-04:00

So it's new car time, a time I put up there with taxes, surgery, and spending time with that one relative... you get my point. I HATE IT! When did reliable used cars get out of the $1,000 range? I know as much about cars as I do about nuclear fission, just enough to get by, but I do know I don't like old time car salesmen. We had one yesterday. We called Koon's Chevy right down the street about a car we saw in their inventory. Salesman told us yes, we have that car, it's a fine car, but someone is coming to look at it at 7, could you come down now, if not it may be gone? Told the wife, bell #1!

We go down, nothing else happening on a 100 degree day, let's go look at cars. We get there and our sales dude says he has to go find the keys, takes us out to the wrong car, and proceeds to tell us this long yarn. The car someone else was going to beat us too is in another city, not even in Baltimore. He forgot that part. He has this car that is comparable in all ways, except it has 100,000 MORE miles than we wanted, cost $4,000 MORE than we wanted to spend, and we can't drive it because it has some "DIFFICULTIES"! all I have to say about it is this guy must be one of the Koon's kids, no other way you'd keep him around!

Perry Hall Patch Blog, Laundry Day 2 And Memorial Day

2011-05-30T10:07:00.003-04:00

Started writing a little blog for my community electronic news letter, The Perry Hall Patch, but they are editing what I write. Don't they know the press can't be silenced! Just another way to interact with the world around me, we shall see how it goes. I am sending an email to the editor to ask why they are changing the content.

Trying to incorporate a little bit of service into what I do, wanting to have an impact before I die. Doing the laundry thing again today, a few people asked why I was doing it on a holiday? The guys that it's being done for need it regardless of the holiday, feels good to do it. It's not much, but it's something I can handle physically, and it makes me feel good, so win win. Have a nice memorial day, I'll be spending the second have with the father in law who served in WW2, it will be the second privilege of my day!

Multiple Sclerosis, Back Pain, Depression, and IV Steroids

2011-05-25T23:41:00.002-04:00

Can you say exacerbation? I can, but I needed spell check to make sure it was spelled right. I am in full bloom with one right not, waiting to hear from the nurse tomorrow with a time to put another IV in. A lot going on, a rhizotomy scheduled for tomorrow, feeling bad, physically and emotionally, fatter than a sumo wrestler, I tell ya, a lot! Add to it subtropical weather and I'm finished. Find out tomorrow if the doc will do the rhizotomy whilst in an episode, hope so, been hoping to have this done for a good while.

Camp Chapel Laundry Day For The Homeless, And Blogging For The Perry Hall Patch

2011-05-22T14:32:00.003-04:00

Starting a deal tomorrow where we are having a day at a local laundromat to help the homeless folks get their things clean. It's been 3 weeks since the shelter closed, so this is already past due, I mean think of it, 3 weeks without doing laundry. Add to that these guys are living in tents out in the woods and you realize how much they could use a wash day. We made some bagged lunches today at the end of services, so we shall see how it goes, keep your fingers crossed.

Got an email from the editor of our local Patch, wanted to know if I would be interested in blogging for them? Being my schedule is somewhat open, I told them I'd be tickled pink to participate. The wife hasn't seen it yet, she was in New York Yesterday, Atlantic City today, but I'm sure she won't like the picture I used. Anyway, a good way to fill my time, and also a way to get my voice heard about things that be on my mind.

MS Blues

2011-05-20T13:50:00.002-04:00

Having one of those days, questioning everything, what I've done, what I haven't done. The things I thought I should be proud of, maybe I didn't do so well at those either? I want a redo!

Road Wash Out, and Weather Related Crop Damage

2011-05-19T17:43:00.002-04:00

Man did it rain today! Went up for my spine injections, they went well, thanks, but the rain was unbelievable! My friend took me, the wife was disinterested, and the ride home was a true adventure. The road in front of us washed out, a lot of debris, a lot water, all from a little babbling brook you wouldn't even know was there, until today.

With all this rain we've had, some of my plants have taken a beating, especially the things I grew from seed and transplanted. My bag tomatoes took a real hit, may need to replace them with plants from Richardson's farm. Need to go up and check the church garden, they were nice sturdy plants, don't expect any problems. Why are the plants I grew from seed in my basement not as strong, they all had little, spindly stems? I think next year I will sow the seeds right into the ground, cut out the middle man.

The Center For Pain Management, and Lottery To See Who Gets To Drive Me

2011-05-19T11:05:00.003-04:00

Spinal injection today, they are doing the other side, can't wait! The Spine Center is my injector of choice, been with them a long time and the wife does their marketing. So far they've done a great job, and that's where my loyalties are! One more of these and I think I'm having a rhizotomy, something the father had 30 some years ago, said it was the most painful thing he ever endured. Good thing is that was 30 years ago, it's painless now, right? I want the doc to just do a spine-ectomy, take the part out that hurts, or kill it, simple enough, right?

The wife can't take me for my injection today, she is choosing to work over taking care of me, I see where this is going! This is like the time I had chemotherapy and she took the kids to Ocean City, MD. Me laying there in that cold, dark, damp, dungeon like facility while she cavorted on the beach with the cabana boys. Luckily I have an unlimited supply of very close, very dear friends who just simply adore me! OK, I actually do have a lot of people who would do things for me, but today it's just one, and she got the short straw, so I must try to be on my best behavior, though that is almost impossible for me.

Bowling In Reno, Laundry For The Homeless

2011-05-17T22:24:00.003-04:00

The boy leaves for Reno tomorrow for a bowling tournament, all by his lonesome. The wife said she hopes he has a good time. Hopes he has a good time, really? He's 19 years old, going to Reno, to do something he loves. His little ass better have a good time! When I was 19 I didn't have any direction at all, or any money to do anything like a trip. He's going with a bunch of old guys, some almost my age, and not all of them drinkers, so he's in good hands. Drinking is the wife's big concern, I told her he'll be fine, Wednesdays are known more for hookers!

Got the OK at an outreach meeting at church today, doing a laundry day for the homeless dudes this coming Monday. Found out whilst talking to them, a lot of ties they wear things until they either fall apart, or are so dirty it's easier to just throw them away. When they are to the point of being worn out, they get new, but that's all easier said than done. Like us, homeless people feel better when they are clean, and when their things are clean. This is just a small thing I can do, hope it helps them.

Doldrums Of Multiple Sclerosis, The Solitude Of Spirit

2011-05-16T11:07:00.004-04:00

I used to worry about if the world would miss me when I was gone, would I have made enough of an impact on it whilst I was here. Over 14 years home, not so worried about that anymore as I am the world knowing I'm still here. Not talking anymore about the whole wide world, are they going to build monuments and statues. Talking about the people that know me, will they know I'm still here when I hit 20 years in captivity? Will people that I've known for years ask if I'm still alive, or will they know, one way or the other? My biggest fear now is that I've become one of those people what others say, I didn't know he passed away, or one that goes weeks unnoticed in their rooms. I miss being viable, being accountable, being me.

Church Garden In The Ground, And No Experimental MS Therapies For Me!

2011-05-14T23:44:00.002-04:00

We got the garden rolling today, it's going to be great! Went and got a truckload of topsoil to add, already added compost. The garden is at the back of the parking lot, backs up to some pretty nice townhomes. A young couple came over and started asking questions, before we knew what happened the guy was up in the truck blasting out dirt like a steam shovel! We got everything planted and even used their hose to give it the first soaking. The 2 members from church did an incredible amount of work too, probably had to do with the leadership I showed from my lawn chair.

Who can tell me something about CCSVI? Anybody know anyone who's had it? The mother knows a gal, who knows a guy, who saw something about it, on some show, but that's about it? My central nervous system has a blood supply? Is this procedure just angioplasty? Why is there so much controversy around each one of the "cures" for MS? LDN, Bee sting, dental Amalgam. Why can't they just make it work? My mechanic can fix my car, the plumber the pipes. I refuse to take anything else, or get any worse until they fix this! Who's with me?

Church Garden Tilled, And A Spring Cold Thanks To The Boy

2011-05-13T14:41:00.002-04:00

Got the church garden underway, got the 20x20 plot tilled, composted and tilled again. That being said it will still be like trying to grow something on a parking lot! I forget sometimes that Perry Hall was settled because of its clay and gravel, at least I think why that's why it was settled? Church is having an outdoor cleanup tomorrow, and a few of the garden people are going to start putting plants in the ground. It will be a matter of time before we are cursing the lack of rain, and trying to figure out how to get rid of the bunnies, can't wait!

I remember thinking what germ factories little kids are, spreading their pathogens all over the place. The boy, now 19, still has a knack for it. He developed an upper respiratory thing, sending out mushroom clouds of death all over the house, and yes I got it too. Don't think I actually caught it from him, but I'm certainly not taking the blame for it. I avoided being sick all winter, hand washing, avoiding human contact, and using my Neti pot. I did that while volunteering all winter at the homeless shelter. I guess the combination of the spring allergy season, the boy sounding like he belonged in the TB ward, and bad luck all joined in a perfect storm type of thing, I need to be institutionalized!

Illegal Chicken Farmer, Market Cornered On Polyethylene Glycol

2011-05-09T22:10:00.002-04:00

I've decided to go ahead and get 3 chickens, thumb my nose at the man, go off the grid, eat the omelet of freedom! I want chickens, the county won't answer my questions about other things, I'll just play dumb if there's a complaint, and I'm just the man to do it. Have to build a chicken tractor for my little egg factories to live in, refuse to spend hundreds of dollars for $35 worth of materials. By the time the county does something I'll be on my way to Mexico, I will not be taken alive!

On a lighter note, had to switch medical insurance, have Cigna now, so I also change mail order pharmacy. Everything is pretty much the same, so far at least. One thing that was a pain, had to get all new prescriptions for the mounds of meds I take. One of said meds is polyethylene glycol, 1 capful once a day. Here is the funny part, told ya it was lighter, the script got screwed up somewhere, 1 capful TWICE a day was ordered! Got 6 of the huge bottles of powder in the mail, and they accidently sent 2! I have more polyethylene glycol than the constipation ward at the local mental hospital! I have to let them know I'm set for a while, I already don't have enough to read for the amount I have on hand.

A Great Mothers Day And Church Garden Getting Started

2011-05-08T23:25:00.003-04:00

Great day today, the Moms sure seemed to have a nice day, though the wife worked too hard on hers. I should have pushed her out of the kitchen and taken control, but I was feeling a bit slow today, pollen is sky high, killing me, and my right eye is still all oogey. The kids aren't to the point of stepping up yet, don't remember when that happens, I was 40 before I did anything of note. a friend and her husband stopped by, didn't join us for nosh, but was good to see them just the same.

Get started on the church garden tomorrow, a bit later than I would have hoped, but started just the same. We shall have to resort to plants instead of seed, but that is not the end of the world for the size we are doing. It's just a 20x20 garden to get started, but there has already been a good bit of buzz about it. 20x20 this year, maybe 40x40 next year, or let out 20x20 spots to people and get the entire community involved. The whole idea is to get people thinking about where our food is coming from, and where it is going. Our hope is to show the community how much we can grow, and maybe they will do some, and so on, and so on, and......

Parents For Mothers Day, Lucky To Have All 4 Of Them

2011-05-06T22:08:00.004-04:00

The parents are coming to town for mothers day, we have a weekend of fun and hilarity planned. The mother and wife are going to a ladies tea at church tomorrow afternoon, then we all go to a church dinner after that. If it wasn't for church food, we wouldn't eat! It's going to be great spending with day Sunday with all the mothers. The whole gang will be here, we are very lucky to have both our Moms, and we know it.

While the girls are tea-ing it tomorrow, pinkies in the air, the father and me will be out digging in the yard. Have some things that need to be done, the father, The 76 year old father will be here to run circles around me. The 85 year old father in law will probably be here to help. I hate them both! They are like the energizer bunnies, and I am like, what's the opposite of that? Whatever it is, I'm that. Glad they're that way, it is really something to see, as I watch from my chair!

Bumper To Bumper Doctor Appointments

2011-05-04T22:02:00.003-04:00

Have an urologist and a dentist appointment tomorrow, having bumper to bumper check up. Dentist is a recurring thing, like I said, put his kids through school, the urologist is a newish thing. The urgency is getting worse, so is making it through the night,oh yay! When I drank large quantities of beer in my younger days it was an issue, and was an issue until I was 15, oh yay, but I digress. When I was a saloon swilster I got a doctor to give me DDAVP, took care of the problem, lickety split. I want them to give it to me again, get back on the track of not being scared to go to sleep.

Funeral Parlor Observation, And Buddy Has Scabies. Or So He Says

2011-05-03T22:35:00.005-04:00

Had to do the funeral home thing tonight, a neighbor lost his 90 something year old mother. Been to a ton of these things now, you can just about plan on what you're going to see when you get there. When the child is 70+ years old there is very seldom any tears, it's a very light hearted atmosphere. It usually is a celebration of life, not a how horrible it is for them to be gone. Tonight was an easy one, wish they all were.

I was going to write about a guy a know with scabies, but I think he's pulling my leg, after all all, who gets stuff like that? I didn't even know it was a real thing, thought it was like cooties, all in the persons head, or childhood lore. If I get something like that I think I want it to be topical, or at least sub tropical, like pango pango. OK Pago Pago, that's the capital of American Samoa, but you know what I mean, something with an alliterative name. Anyway, I offered to take my buddy to PetSmart to be dipped, but my humor is sometimes lost on the humor impaired!

Mini Eye Exacerbation, Minions In The Garden

2011-05-02T19:34:00.003-04:00

The right eye is acting up, that blurry, fuzzy, fade out type of acting up. This weather is killing me! Don't know about anyone else but I need it to get warm and stay warm, or stay cool, I don't care, but this warm one day, cold the next is tearing me apart! Teaming up with the eye is the usual slow motion of things, like an out of body experience, though I really don't know what one of those is like. Not too hard to deal with, as long as it's only in one eye, so keep your fingers crossed.

Had both my minions out in the yard helping me today, would be funny if they didn't come from my gene pool! The girl panics if she doesn't get it right away, and the boy figures he didn't know it yesterday, won't scar him if he doesn't know it today. They laid a layer of cardboard down to kill the grass, then filled the 6x8' raised bed with compost. The girl did the cardboard and left for school, while the boy got to hump the compost from the truck to the bed. He was all proud of himself, said all finished. Wish you could have seen the look on his face when I said, good job, cut the grass and you're all finished!

Idiot Garden Underway, The Wife Is On Vacation

2011-04-30T15:08:00.002-04:00

The idiot garden is off and running. I have potatoes in my trashcan, yellow onions and garlic in my bathtub, onions, mesculin, 2 types of chard, shallots, and tomatoes in my bag garden. I have lettuce in my lettuce table, duh, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and tomatoes in my idiot tubs. I have a 6x8' raised bed planted with a 3 sisters garden, corn, squash or pumpkin, and beans. Seeds are sprouting, transplants are flourishing, we will be eating healthy and local in no time.

The wife is off for 9 straight days, it will be great! We are going to cook good meals, try some new recipes, play with our kitchen set. She is going to clean one room each day, then move onto the next. I'd help her, but I have a bad back and MS, so you know. I'd love to have her home all the time, trying to talk her into moving up to the mountains, to Cumberland, but she is slow to make change. I told her we could move downtown, open a tea room, and live happily ever after. For now, I'll settle for 9 straight days off.

Libraries As Haven For The Homeless, Back Pain Causing MS Like Weakness In My Legs

2011-04-29T23:41:00.003-04:00

Went this morning to the library, a lot of the guys from the shelter congregate there, had a few things planned to try and help with paperwork. Thought that was an odd place for homeless dudes to hang out, how repulsive was that thought? The library holds as many things for the homeless, maybe more. Libraries are a good place to charge cell phones, use a computer, get warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and oh yeah, there are books there too.

I've come to the decision that right now I'm having more trouble with my back than I am with my MS. Been very discouraged with the weakness in my legs, did something I get mad at doctors for, assumed it was from the MS, and thought no more about it. Then I had a couple of the spinal injections and the weakness wasn't as bad. The back still hurt, but the pain was different, don't know that I can explain? The pain from my back was zapping the strength from my legs. I need to get my back fixed so I can build some strength back up in my legs. Will see how this theory plays out....stay tuned!

Homelessness In Eastern Baltimore County

2011-04-28T15:30:00.002-04:00

Worked for a few days getting a housing voucher squared away for one of the guys from the shelter. I think it's $340 a month, supposed to be a subsidy, most of the guys it still won't be enough to make a difference. We need to develop micro housing structures, almost like bringing back the old boarding houses. The folks would have their own small room, enough space for a bed and their things, a common room and dining hall. Problem is it's not a money maker so therefore unlikely to happen. Still working on county officials, trying to get them to donate property and trailers to house the men, not much luck yet.

Had a friend ask me why, oh all the things I could have done, why did I pick the shelter as the place to spend my energy? Good question. Never been homeless, never been close really. always had a job, so I don't connect on that level. Definitely don't think I'm better than they are, so why? What I came up with surprised me, didn't know I had such Zen thoughts. It really doesn't have a whole lot to do with them. I'm doing this because it is how I think things should be, and I can do it. I can't fix the economy, can't save the rain forest, but I could see to it that 16 men had a warm meal 3 nights a month for 7 months. I got a few things done for a few of these 16 men, not all of them. Didn't put an end to homelessness, but I tried to make things a bit better for the 16 I knew.

Back Pain Is, Well Back, And Mens Shelter To Close

2011-04-27T16:28:00.004-04:00

It's been a madhouse around here! How can a guy that doesn't work be so busy? Not sure I've actually been doing anything, but for putting my dentist and pain management doctors children through school. Back back to being horrid! Back back, I know, take a minute. Had a triple spinal injection yesterday, something called a lumbar facet joint injection. So far so good. Have another of those on the other side next week.

The shelter I have been working with is closing this Saturday, very sad. Of the 16 men from the shelter only one has left with housing, looking more and more like the others are out of time. For them most will return to the camps, shanty towns in the woods, no running water or electricity. A few have tents, a few don't. Most are on disability, hardly enough to survive on in our area. I'm hoping this thing picks up momentum and is a year round thing next year, in its own place, with a stronger support structure for the men.

Sudden And Severe Pain And Cramps

2011-03-09T16:12:00.003-05:00

What a wuss I've become. I made a decision, I took a stand, time to tough it out and stop the Baclofen. I failed, on an epic scale! Initially my pain and spasms started gradually, over a period of years actually. After being on the Baclofen for a few months both the issues were lessened, almost eliminated...almost. Stopping the fen brought both things back, full bore, all at once, don't think I can pull it off. I guess I was tougher when I was younger, but it wasn't all at once, so I may be be back on the drug.

Talent Auction At Church, The Wife's Pretzels Were A Hit

2011-03-05T22:56:00.002-05:00

Church had a talent auction tonight, had a great time. The wife donated a couple of plates of her chocolate covered pretzels, went for $100! I figure I ate about 30 bucks worth this afternoon? Had a great meal, got to spend the evening with in-laws, and got out amongst the humans for a few hours. I didn't bid on anything, figured the wife would take care of that for the both of us. It looked like the event was a success, nice size crowd, people were spending their money, good times.

Drug Free, Or Somewhat Free, And Yoga

2011-03-03T09:13:00.004-05:00

I am completely weened from my baclofen and Tramadol, and boy the leg cramps are back with a vengeance! I know, I don't know how I do it either, but I'm happy that I'm getting some use back in my right hand. Diane from Stellarlife mentioned Zanaflex, I'll try anything twice, or thrice, so it's on my to do list. The other drugs were contradicted for some of my other more important ones, like my nutsy pills! I'm making up my own seated yoga routine from DVDs to the library, so we shall see about that as well.

Multiple Sclerosis Won Over Baclofen

2011-02-24T10:21:00.003-05:00

Baclofen was a total bust, it worked too well. For a few months now I haven't had any, or least not many of the cycling cramps in my arms and legs. It has been wonderful, not sure if it did anything for my back, but we will see. My second go round with this particular drug, same result this turn. It got rid of the spasticity for sure, but with that gone, so went the usefulness of certain parts of my body. Right hand had become nothing more than a closed fist weight at the end of my arm, and don't even ask about my legs! Almost weened off the Baclofen, Tramadol is next.

Eastside Men's Shelter Tonight, Breakfast Casserole Tonight

2011-01-18T06:55:00.002-05:00

Going to the shelter tonight, to the point I'm looking forward to seeing the guys. I know their names, and they know me, so it's easy to hold a conversation. A few are working towards their GED, or getting their birth certificates or drivers license. There are also a few that aren't aware they are even there, sad to watch. A bunch have been put out for inappropriate behavior, drugs or alcohol issues mostly, but all are appreciative. Taking breakfast casseroles and fried potatoes tonight for dinner, 18 people in all, so I'd best get at it!

NFL Does A Horrible Job With Farve And Game Cancelation

2010-12-29T22:42:00.004-05:00

The NFL made a few great decisions this week. First was them canceling the Sunday night game because it was dangerous for people to go to the game, thanks. So if the game next week in Buffalo has snow, and I decide to go and get in an accident, I can sue the NFL for not postponing the game, sweet! Second was fining Farve his pocket change for not cooperating with the investigation into HIS misconduct. Suspend him a game, let him lose the $687,530 he would lose for not playing. They said they couldn't determine if it was a picture of his body parts he sent to the young girl? I bet Mrs. Farve knows!

Horrible Weather, Snow, Wind, How I Miss Being Out In It

2010-12-27T08:13:00.004-05:00

No place on earth less hospitable than Baltimore today, pretty sure I read it someplace, or maybe I said it to the wife, can't remember which? Either way it must be true, right? Snowed all day yesterday, sustained winds over 100 miles per hour this morning. Saw a crow battling the wind, all of it's feathers blew off, looked like a Cornish hen sitting on the fence post. Our American flag is snapping in the wind, looks like the flag from Ice Station Zebra! With all of this, harsh baby, harsh weather conditions, there is nothing I'd like better than to be sitting in a tree stand, watching the deer and the antelope play. I miss me.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T18:21:00.003-05:00

This is the first time in 48 years I won't spend Christmas eve with my parents, don't like it even a little bit. The folks came up for my brothers foot surgery last week, they decided they couldn't make the trip again so soon from the shore, about 300 miles round trip. The wife's family will be here tomorrow and that helps a lot. We also asked a young girl who just joined our church what her plans were, she told us she had none, she will be joining us. As for tonight, the wife is in the bell choir, so we are off! Merry Christmas everyone.

Doctor Thinks Everything Is OK, But He's Not Sure

2010-12-17T21:53:00.002-05:00

Went to the pain specialist today, had a few questions about the medications. I have my doubts about if the non narcotic Tramadol is doing the trick for me, or if it is of a high enough dose. Also curious if some of the hand issues I'm having, cramping, stiffness, and general weakness are being caused by the Baclofen. I got my all time favorite answer to both, it very well could be. WHAAAAAA? All those years of college, all those years in a specialty and the best you have is, I dunno? All things considered I think we came up with a good plan, we increased both and are going to see if it changes anything, yay.

Somebody Needs to Explain Solar Energy To Me

2010-12-15T19:00:00.003-05:00

25 watts, 40 watts, 100 watts, what does all of that mean? Does a 45 watt solar array do anything but take up space? Does said array supply a 45 watt appliance? I'm looking to run one of them there Amish fireplaces without the Amish mantel. What do I need to do this? I've gone on different sites to see, but I need solar power for morons, they dummy things down quite a bit, but not enough for me. I just needs someone to ask the obvious question...watts up?

A Good Night At The Eastside Mens Shelter On A Frigid Night

2010-12-14T10:37:00.003-05:00

Just got home from the shelter a while ago, all went well. The wife went with me, she prepared last nights meal, did a great job, as usual. She had a hard time with how young a couple of them were, not much older than our son. I go again on the 18th, going to talk about a couple of things with our Pastor, like taking breakfast food, and coming home after the men are asleep and going back at around 5 am? It seems like such a waste for me to be there when everyone is sleeping, and there is a paid staff member. Bigger than if it's needed is if it's going to kill my back? By the time I get home I can hardly walk, HA! Good one, well it made me laugh.

Atkins Diet Coming To An End, Think I'll Switch To The Daniel Fast?

2010-12-12T21:23:00.003-05:00

Have to figure out what is going to come next for me when it comes to my diet plan, I think Atkins is going to make my heart explode if I have any more bacon! I've lost 50 lbs, thrilled about that, but if I don't get some fruit, or some nuts or seeds I think I may explode. I'm getting ready to make a switch, go to something called the Daniel fast, a vegetarian diet plan, told ya it was a switch. So I'm going to go from eating all parts cow, pig and fowl, to eating nada, zip, nuttin. I think it's a more logical way to eat, the way we were built to eat, but I can't argue with the weight shedding power of Atkins.

It's Going To Be An Aquaponic Christmas

2010-12-11T19:19:00.002-05:00

Just finished my Christmas shopping, it's the only shopping I've done all year, the best part is that the presents are for me. My inlaws give me money to buy what I want, this year I wanted the supplies to start an indoor aquaponics system. Had most of the components, the rest I got from either the hardware store or the tool store, Harbor freight. I'm going to have to wait until after Christmas, the wife's rules, but I'm looking forward to trying it out. I have my old neighbor intrigued, if I can snag him it's sure to be a success, he can do anything!

Is It MS Or Back Pain Short Circuiting My Legs?

2010-12-10T22:21:00.003-05:00

I have discovered that I have a point of of return. Not sure what it's actually called, but I'm pretty sure it's back related, not another plum of having MS. My epiphany is that I can no longer squat down to pick things up...wait, that's actually not true, I can, but I can't get back up. I just went out to get the mail, dropped an important letter addressed to me, or current occupant, and bent down to get it. The next thing I knew I was sprawled out in the sedum, Laughing, but I didn't drop anymore mail! I'm close to being able to pick things up, that's what keeps getting me in trouble, I keep trying. Sometimes I get it, sometimes my back short circuits my legs and timber!

Who Cares What Luke Scott Thinks About Obama, Maybe He Should Be Working On Hitting A Curve Ball Instead

2010-12-08T16:52:00.004-05:00

I'm confused about something, actually many things, but for today this. Why would I give a hoot in hell what Luke Scott thinks about the president of the United State? Because he can hit a curve ball...wait, he can't hit a curve ball, OK, a fast ball, that makes him a political analyst? It's all over the news, local and national, Luke doesn't think Obama was born in the United States. Why would any credible journalist ask him that question, he knows about as much about that as he does about having a period! We took our eye off the ball, Luke regurgitated Ted Nugent and it's line one news. Hey, I've got an idea, have the guy doing the interview ask the sports guy if instead of hunting everyday, shouldn't Luke be working on hitting that curve?

Can't Always Make Your Kids Feel Better

2010-12-07T18:17:00.002-05:00

Had a tough couple of days here at the casa, the boy's best friend since kindergarten lost his mother. The boy has known her all his life, she was a couple years younger than us, so it really hit home. His friend withdrew over the last couple of weeks, the boy didn't even find out until after her funeral. Odd circumstance, but it must have been the way they wanted to handle it. It was sudden and it was quick, and the boy doesn't know what to make of it, or how to help his friend. Tough lesson to learn, not always anything you can do.

Baclofen Has Made My Right Hand Useless, I Think?

2010-12-04T21:25:00.004-05:00

So who knows the skinny on Baclofen? It's been doing an incredible job with the cramps and pain in my legs, very happy about that. I took Baclofen years ago, didn't like how it relaxed my legs at the time. It did the same thing this time, but I stuck with it, increased the dose, and have adjusted. What caught me off guard was what it did to my right hand, the same thing it did to my legs. Can't brush my teeth right now with the right hand, use a comb, scissors, cut meat, or even write. I'm hoping I will be able to rehab the hand, get some use out of it again. Tough when the trade of for not being in agony is lose of use, but I'm thinking it's pretty worth it at this point.

Adkins Still Going Strong, Drip Irrigation, and Still No New Bed

2010-12-02T20:17:00.003-05:00

Down under 285, feeling good, getting into the flow of not eating so much. Lost so much girth everywhere I lost my wedding ring, just fell off! The wife isn't too upset, 3rd time I've done it. Trying to figure out how to incorporate a rain barrel into either a drip system, or a soaking hose. Have to read a bit to see if you can do it from a barrel with no hose pressure. Still don't have our new bed, it's been a hoot. The young gal that sold us the bed at Sears screwed just about every part of the sale possible. We had to cancel the order, redo the whole thing, and be put on the delivery list again. We will try it again on Wednesday, keep you fingers crossed!

Weight Lose, MS, and Mobility

2010-11-29T11:27:00.002-05:00

What kind of idiot starts a diet on Halloween, stays on it through Thanksgiving...that's right me! I missed 2 prime pig-out times, what was I thinking? Not sure of my thought process, ever, but I do know I lost weight over turkey day, and the subsequent leftover orgy that followed, something that has to be a first for me. I've faded into the high 280's, at this rate I should be completely gone by early summer! I kid, that's what I am, a kidder. My goal is to stay on my modified Adkins until I hit the 230 range for a 100 lb total lose. I has to make it easier to get around if I can get back into the human weight range?

Great Thanksgiving, Great Family Time

2010-11-27T15:40:00.004-05:00

Had a great Thanksgiving! The wife's family and my parents were with us, including the girls beau, who passed with flying colors. It is always a good time, particularly nice at our age to have all 4 parents present. Miss my family on holidays, but the sister moved away and the brother is always busy or has a sick child. The wife did an incredible job, the food was out of this world, though I'm still on Atkins and only ate turkey. Lost over 40 lbs since I started, down to a skinny 287 or so. We enjoy the holidays, we have Christmas day here again, same list of suspects.

Aquaponics In The Basement Or The Backyard?

2010-11-24T15:29:00.002-05:00

Found a cool site about backyard aquaponics, shows you how to do it with either a fish tank or food grade 55 gallon barrels. Another is a video about a system to use in your basement, yeah, fish in your basement! I've got to try one, probably the one in my basement, haven't told the wife yet, but I'm sure she'll be as excited as I am. Now what kind of fish do I want, smoked trout, fried catfish, or broiled Tilapia? There's a house that has been empty for a while up the street that has a cool little greenhouse, may need to figure out how to acquire that for future use? Tomatoes and salad all year long with a little fish, sounds like a plan to me.

New Bed, and MS Cleaning a Real Chore

2010-11-22T23:58:00.002-05:00

Getting a new bed on Wednesday, didn't realize how bad the old one was until I stripped the sheets the other day. Oh I knew it was broken, and it sagged horribly on my side, and it was uncomfortable, but it has a hold in it and a spring is sticking up through! I cleaned the bedroom top to bottom today so that when the delivery dudes come everything is ready to go. Sears had a sale that was so good we almost bought 2! It better be comfortable, I almost killed myself cleaning the room, not that much stamina left in the tank anymore. I miss being able to go all day, get tons of stuff done every time I decided to do so. I hated cleaning up when I could, now I'd like to do it everyday but can't.

Volunteering At The Mens Shelter Was A Nice Experience

2010-11-21T12:33:00.004-05:00

Volunteered 2 nights at the shelter, Thursday and Saturday, it went very well. Not a ton of things to do after midnight until 5 am or so, but it has it's moments. Didn't tell them I used to be a deputy sheriff, doesn't always go over as a good thing in all circles. Went out to my truck for something and the one guy complained that I was able to go out but everyone else had to wait until the designated smoke break time. When he found out I was a volunteer he laughed and said I looked more homeless than he did! It's both satisfying and sad that taking 4 2-liter bottles of soda can so brighten up the evening for 16 men.

First Night At The Men's Shelter, Wish Me Luck

2010-11-18T11:02:00.004-05:00

Go tonight to volunteer at the homeless shelter, excited about it actually. Don't know what to expect, it's our churches first turn, so I'm the test case. As far as I know my duties will be pretty simple, there is a paid county worker that's going to be there, not sure what my roll will be? The men will have been fed by the time I get there, our pastor said they go to bed at 10, not sure if it's a lights by then. I will have more info come tomorrow, hope everything works out, this is the only shelter on the east side of town, and it's a big town!

I Want To Vote On Earmarks, Keep The Politicians Out Of It

2010-11-16T19:13:00.003-05:00

Saw a thing about earmarks today, the politicos are going to try to talk about them. I gots a question, why don't we vote on it? I'd like to have a vote, like a referendum, or an initiative. Aren't these dudes and duddettes supposed to be doing what we want, representing us? They haven't even asked me what I thought? We can elect all the people we want to office, until we get our hands into it things will just be a moneymaker for a small group of people and the people that pay for them.

Passenger Refuses Scan and Pat Down, Why Wasn't He Arrested?

2010-11-15T18:51:00.004-05:00

So I see there was an airline passenger that refused to be scanned or have a thorough pat down. Cool, people are comparing him to Rosa Parks, the big difference being she got arrested. They should have locked his ass up, banned him from flying, and give him the maximum fine! When he refused to have either the scan or search he became an enemy combatant, he should have been treated as one. I'm all for free speech, but it comes with a price, that's why it's so precious.

Weight Lose and Volunteering At The Mens Shelter

2010-11-14T23:56:00.002-05:00

Good weekend, didn't do anything, but it was nice. The wife was in New York yesterday so I was a lone wolf. Moved some of the house plants around so I get to them for their care, the family doesn't get the concept of plants needing water! Made some of my food for the next few days, still on Atkins, lost about 30 lbs so far, still a long way to go. Found out Sunday at church that I will be doing the graveyard shift at the Eastern mens shelter, maybe 2 days next week, I'm looking forward to it. I'm all set for a good week, see what I can get it to this time!

Aquaponics For Food And Fun

2010-11-13T14:32:00.003-05:00

Who knows anything about aquaponics? I am suddenly struck by the whole concept of being able to grow all my own food, including fish in one system, you can even grow shrimp and crayfish! If I can figure out how to hook it all up to a small solar charger and battery I will be in absolute hog heaven! OK, I have a little bit of research to do, see how much it costs to get started, what kind of fish...alright, I have a lot of research to do, but it's what I do! I wonder if I could get the University of MD involved, have them set it up, use it as a teaching tool, and best of all pay for it?

Delawning Plant Selections and Chickens and Rabbits and Fish, Oh My

2010-11-12T23:47:00.003-05:00

Played with the idea of delawning my yard last night, looked up all kinds of stuff. Trying to see what plants I would use to accomplish this feet, trying to stick to all Maryland native plants. Looking for native ground covers that are succulents and thrive in full sun, starting to think they don't exist. I want something that my chickens can run around in, and occasionally my rabbits, and no I don't have either of the critters yet. I'm giving the wife a break by no pursuing the Tilapia aquaculture at this point, but just at this point!

Want To Delawn My Yard, But The Wife Says No

2010-11-11T23:45:00.003-05:00

I told the wife I wanted to replace the grass in the yard with fruit and vegetable plants, and the rest with sedum. She asked if I wanted to hear her opinion, which I told her I didn't! When I stopped laughing I asked her what she thought, and she told me she hated it, everyone has grass. I called her a lemming, she hit me again and told me not to do anything with the grass. No more cutting, very little watering, and you can eat parts of it, no brainer for me. That being said, I'm sure if you check back in a few months I will still have grass in my yard!

Miss Jackie's Favorites Takes Off

2010-11-10T21:13:00.002-05:00

Helping the wife set up a blog for her new business venture, chocolate covered pretzels. She has made them for years, everyone loves them, tells her she should sell them. After I volunteered to be be blog boy I realized it had been long enough ago that I'd done this one that I didn't remember how it was done! Luckily it is easy to do, but I didn't tell her that. I expect she will pass me in views, visits, and whatever else you call it in a matter of months, she is a special person!

Regimen To Help Escape Chronick Back Pain and Multiple Sclerosis, Sysmptoms

2010-11-08T23:34:00.005-05:00

Back's feeling pretty good, knock on wood. Wish I knew which of the things I was doing was responsible, but more importantly I'm just happy to have some relief. Been doing my stretching exercises, riding my bike, also been popping my Tramadol and Baclofen. I went out in the yard and planted my garlic today, took it easy, but still got it all done. Have to make sure I do the stretching and the bike, have to build up muscle again. It's nice to feel like I have some control over the beast!

Pathfinders for Autism Event and Family

2010-11-07T21:39:00.002-05:00

Went to a fundraiser for autism last night called Pathfinders for Autism, very nice affair. Met a couple of my cousins, and 2 sets of aunt and uncles, so it was a win win. My cousins one son has Asperger's Syndrome so it was nice to go support them in their fight, plus it was great seeing everyone. Stopped by today to spend a little more time with the aunt and uncles, even got a bushel of crabs and a head of elephant garlic in the deal. Like always the best part was getting to enjoy good times with good people.

Baclofen and Tramadol For Treating Multiple Sclerosis

2010-11-05T20:47:00.004-04:00

Let us speak of drugs. Been taking Baclofen for a few weeks now, up to 30 milligrams a day, seems to be helping with both my legs and back. Taking a new non narcotic pain med too, Tramadol I think it's called, that's working pretty good too. The Baclofen was better this time, took it in the past, thought I knew what weak was back then, funny actually. The cramps are so much better, that cycle of cramps that comes rolling in about dinner time, hoping they stay away. Don't know what will happen, but I'll take a few days of less pain.

Atkins Diet and Multiple Sclerosis

2010-11-04T15:57:00.003-04:00

I am in full diet mode, really more of a changing the way I eat mode really. Doing the Atkins diet, have too much weight to lose to go with the 1 1/2 pound a month gig. Already lost 20 lbs, under 300 for the first time in a long time, doing it with smaller portions this time so I'm hopeful. Past the caffeine and sugar withdraw, nice to get rid of the headache that went with those! I already feel better, hoping to see a mobility benefit, got to be easier getting around if I can get back down to human size.

Election Ads Finished, Both TV and Politics Back to Normal

2010-11-03T16:31:00.003-04:00

It is so good to turn the television on and not see all those political ads, now I can watch Viagra and whiskey ads in peace. Local news was hard to figure out, some won who you thought would, other lost, hard to track. We kept a Dem for Gov, but got Rep for congress. I'll be waiting to see how long it is before it returns to normal. Just had 2 years of R's riding the D's, saying nothing will work, now they are in charge, see how long it takes this speaker to be accused of having a private agenda, of course he was the one making the accusations! We I take over things will be much smoother, just wait for it!

Starting A Community Garden At Church, Any Ideas?

2010-10-31T15:07:00.003-04:00

I gave my spiel about a community garden at church today, a lot of head shaking, good idea lad, and why didn't bring this up befores. As a result they also put me in charge of making it happen, church people! I had it all worked out, on paper anyways, how much space, how much money, and how much we could glean from it, 10x10 feet, under $50, and a little over 100 lbs of food for the needy. One guy in particular is interested, I see him all the time, gave us a reason to talk, already seeing a benefit I am. One of the scout masters said the scouts are available for work, I'm sure they will appreciate that. I'm a better indian than I am chief, but here goes nothing!

This Man's Castle Has Lost Its Keep, I've Been Overrun

2010-10-29T21:57:00.002-04:00

Ever feel like you've been relegated to odd man out status, that's where I am right now, don't like it. I used to get kind of riled up, could be the left over of my profession, I was a dress maker, but when things got hinky I could explain in a loud voice how it was going to go, the language was both loud and choice word were used. At home I have to try to tone it down, talk it out, which by the way does absolutely nuttin! I have to decide if I want to pursue this as a problem, or eat another one? I think I may be in pursuit mode this time, all depends on the answer I get to my first question, who paid for your haircut!

Raccoon Attacks Squirrel Feeder in Perry Hall

2010-10-28T23:35:00.002-04:00

Squirrel feeders are a thing to have, the little rascals attack the feeder with gusto of a hound dog. Small birds are attracted them, woodpeckers, cool to watch them have at it. The got home tonight and called me on the phone, told me to look out at the feeder. We had large adult size raccoon on the feeder, a raccoon! The wife is scared to go out to the trash, and I ain't going! I thought we had a badger once, but it was a groundhog, but man we have some wildlife here in suburbia, and I'm not talking about the summer parties at the Neighbors house!

No More Physical Therapy For My MS, A Waste Of Time

2010-10-26T15:46:00.003-04:00

Went to physical therapy today, did my part, they did theirs, then I told them I wouldn't be coming back. Here's the thing, I'm looking for exercises to help me stay limber and fit, they were experimenting with what to do. Had a student therapist today, she thought maybe some time on the hand bike would help, told her I wasn't there for occupational therapy, only for my back and legs. She thought the gentle side to side action wold help loosen my back up, CHECK! I asked for the exercises to do from home, they gave me a list, almost as big a waste as gym in school!

Ravens Dancing More Than Playing Football

2010-10-24T14:16:00.002-04:00

I wonder if Fabian Washington has a planned dance when he gets burned on a play? I'd say no, seen him get burned twice for touchdowns today and he just slanked off the field. He did make a tackle on a 1 yard pass, did a little 2 step, then posed, cool! If I were the Harbaugh I would fine him, fine anyone that is already auditioning for dancing with the stars instead of playing football. Time to watch it on the radio.

Maryland Backyard Wildlife

2010-10-22T20:09:00.002-04:00

The backyard wildlife is great right now, all the sparrows have left for Capistrano. We have a ton of cardinals, blue jays, finches, even woodpeckers and a small bluish bird that I can't figure out. Just so happens we have the fattest squirrels in Maryland, squirrels that prefer sunflowers over acorns, I thought they lived on acorns. A new pride of feral cats are here, beautiful Siamese blends, shame we have to get rid of them. Think the cats chased away the chipmunks, or ate em? It's been fun watching this year.

Physical Therapy For Back Pain and Multiple Sclerosis Symtoms

2010-10-19T16:29:00.003-04:00

Went for my first physical therapy appointment today, doctor wants me to do 2 a week for 3 weeks, therapists wants me to do 3 a week for 3 weeks, big surprise. I hate physical therapy, think it's a waste of time. Just give me the exercises, let me do them at home, and keep your hands out of my wallet. The wife wants me to go, thinks it will do me a lot of good, and I agree, it will do me a lot of good, if I do it for the rest of my life, not just the next 3 weeks. If I can get my rear in gear to go to therapy that often I can do the exercises and ride the bike too, and nobody has to take me. I hate every second of this reality, hoping Einstein was right.

Family Birthdays, and John Daniecki Concert

2010-10-17T21:40:00.003-04:00

Had a nice day, we skipped church, felt like criminals! Went to the sister in laws to celebrate the fall birthdays, nice time. After that the wife and I did go to church, so we don't feel bad. John Daniecki gave a concert, a world renowned tenor at our like country church. It was excellent! He sang all kinds of music, and what a voice, almost as good as mine when I'm alone. Sat next to the minister, so I had to behave, not always something I'm very good at, but I pulled it off. A relaxing day in all, I'll take it.

No Answer From Kratovil-Harris On Question But Harris Will Take My Money

2010-10-15T15:42:00.003-04:00

So it's almost a month later, neither Harris of Kratovil have responded to my numerous emails asking which one of them is lying in their political ads. I for one find that very odd, and very interesting, are both of them lying? When I was a kid and my mother asked me if had done something and I hadn't I spilled my guts like Jimmy 6 toes ratting out the mob! These 2 are going at it like 2 little boys, figured one would fess up. Sent both of them this little note,

Was curious where to send donations, a mailing address? Thanks.

Heard back from Harris camp in 41 minutes!

Hello,
We received your inquiry about where to send a donation to Andy Harris's campaign. First of all, THANK YOU for your support!

Second of all, you can send it to the following address:
Andy Harris for Congress
P.O. Box 1527
Annapolis, MD 21404

Thank you very much. If you have any questions or would like any information, feel free to give us a call at (410) 609-3829.

I suppose I need to call him if I'm not communicating with my checkbook. At least Harris responded?

MRI Shows More Demyelination From Multiple Sclerosis, 2 Torn Disks in My Back

2010-10-13T22:31:00.005-04:00

Got the results back from the second MRI today, more cheery news. The neuro says I have a narrowing of the spinal cord, she told me that's common in MS patients, lucky me, I have a skinny spine. There are a few spots on the lumbar, all new, and a certain amount of an increase on spots in the thoracic. Thing that interested me were the 2 torn discs down at L-4, L-5? I will be making some phone calls to see what that's all about tomorrow.

Baclofen For Multiple Sclerosis Spasticity and Back Pain

2010-10-12T14:02:00.004-04:00

Went down to Sinai hospital, had my meeting with the rehabilitation dude, don't know what type of doctor he was, but I liked him. We talked about the progression of the MS, the back surgery, and in my limbs. He came blowing in the room, back to us, thought to myself, this isn't going to end well, but it did. He did a thorough job, answered all of our questions, gave us something to do at least. I will be starting a low dose of Baclofen, increasing it until it's right for me, he thinks it will help everything. we will discuss long term pain medicine next time, not sure about that, fingers crossed the fen, that's what I call it now, will make a dent.

Why Don't We All Plant 2 Zucchini At Church To Give Away to Our Hungry Neighbors?

2010-10-11T11:25:00.005-04:00

Was reading this piece about an 11 year old girl that stole my idea for feeding the hungry when it hit me, she didn't steal it, she just did it. Why can't I go to churches, go to my church, see about planting 2 zucchini plants? Anyone that's ever seen how many zucchini you get off just 2 plants would agree, that's a lot of food for people who don't have anything to eat. We must have 15 churches just right here in Perry Hall, that's 30 zucchini plants, or a lot of zucchini! People see how easy it is, maybe next year we plant 4? It could, and should be an explosion of food, think about it.

Baseball Only For Those That Can Afford Cable

2010-10-09T17:44:00.003-04:00

Time for baseball playoffs again, seems the Orioles just missed making it yet another year. I'm giving the family my weekly rant about getting rid of cable when I noticed, the playoffs are on TBS! If I get rid of cable, no playoffs, and further more, no more Orioles next year. So baseball, America's game, the nation past time, is only available to people who either can afford, or choose to have cable? Whaaaa? That just ain't right, actually a little embarrassing when you think of al the people that fall into the category of not being able to afford it.

My Lifes Mantra, Or How To Navigate Past The MS

2010-10-07T13:11:00.004-04:00

Decided I need a mantra, all cool people have one, I want to be cool. The kids told me I'm too old to be cool, told them being cool had nothing to do with age, told them to kiss my nose! Thought of stealing a famous mantra, life's a bitch and then you die, or something similar, but decided it has to be unique to me. Did find a list, lists are good, so for now I am going to follow this list until I find my mantra.

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day, and while you walk, smile.
It is the ultimate anti-depressant. For me it will be ride my bike.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Talk to God (or to your higher power or meditate) about what is going on in your life. Buy a lock if you have to.

3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement,
' My purpose is to__________ today. I am thankful for______________ '

4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that
is manufactured in plants.

5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan
salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.

6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

7. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires,
issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control
Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a
college kid with a maxed out charge card.

9. Life is not fair, but it is still good.

10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

11. Don ' t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

12. You are not so important that you have to win every argument.
Agree to disagree.

13. Make peace with your past so it will not spoil the present.

14. Don ' t compare your life to others. You have no idea what
their journey is all about.

15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: ' In five
years, will this matter? '

17. Forgive everyone for everything.

18. What other people think of you is none of your business.

19. GOD (depending on your beliefs) heals everything - but you have to ask Him (translate to your religion).

20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

21. Your job will not take care of you when you are sick.
Your friends will. Stay in touch!!!

22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

23. Each night, before you go to bed complete the following statements:
I am thankful for__________. Today I accomplished_________.

24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

25. When you are feeling down, start listing your many blessings.
You will be smiling before you know it.

I'll adjust it to me, but it's a good list. I'll be substituting sardines for salmon, only like it smoked.

Is Interferon Beta-1b For Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis?

2010-10-06T09:40:00.004-04:00

Having a hard time figuring out if Novantrone is the same as Interferon beta-1b? I see on the National MS page they're not, but I thought I took them all. Beta-1b says it's for SPMS, I think? Has anyone been told it's for SPMS? I can see I need to get back on top of my terms and figure out what I have again, it's the only to be informed enough to ask questions. For now I'm off to have another MRI, thoracic spine this time.

Pharmacy Won't Pay For Cymbalta Unless I Pay Double CoPay

2010-10-05T12:25:00.003-04:00

So my mail order pharmacy calls today, it's the pharmacist himself no less. Been having a bit of a go round over my nutsy-leg cramp medicine, Cymbalta. Doctor wants me to take 90 mg, pharmacist says 60 mg is the highest dose past titration, they will not pay for higher dose, and it is not recommended. They will however let me take a 60 mg and a 30mg pill each day providing I pay 2 co-pays. Whaaaa? It gets safer the more money I spend? Time to call the doctor again, oh joy!

MRI Shows Multiple Sclerosis Is Winning, Lesions Have Increased

2010-10-04T20:58:00.002-04:00

Got the results from the first MRI, this one was of the brain and the top half of the spine, the news is what we expected. There are new lesions on both, "numerous" was the term used, meaning the size has increased to the point one has overtaken the next, so they no longer can differentiate. Have the lower spine tomorrow, expect to get the same results. The neurologist suggested I transfer to Hopkins as things have gotten past his area of knowledge. The 23 years with him were good ones, so I trust it's time to change, keep your fingers crossed they have something for Secondary Progressive and have been waiting for me to come in!

Kratovil-Harris Ingnoring A Constituent, and Political Ads Are Repulsive

2010-10-03T13:35:00.004-04:00

Email I sent to Harris-Kratovil, still no answer to my original question, and these ads are ridiculous.

Enough with the commercials guys, especially the ones you didn't do. Make sure the winner does something abut this unending money flow for commercials, it's ridiculous!

Neither of you are going to respond to me about the question I asked about which one of you is lying about the 23% sales tax? Interesting that constituent questions mean absolutely nothing to you both, thanks.

Andy

Darlington Apple Festival and Me In My Wheelchair

2010-10-01T22:51:00.003-04:00

Going to the Darlington Apple Festival tomorrow, was going to bake a pie for the competition, but didn't have the energy after my 2 hour MRI. Music, food, and what should be a beautiful day in a small town just north of here. Love the local little festivals like this. Hope there are a lot local foodies, maybe some local honey, didn't get any this summer. Taking my chair, so I'll be buzzin all over the streets of Darlington, GO APPLES!

MRI's To Check My Multiple Sclerosis and Back Pain

2010-09-29T18:33:00.002-04:00

Set up my MRI's, one on Friday, one on Wednesday, both long overdue. Had to split them up because of the length, in total it would have been a little over 2 hours. Had to get them done, going about the Baclofen pump soon, though I know the pump is a long way off. Had my blood work done to see if I was having organ failure because of the dye. Curious how the new MRI will compare to the last one? If I a betting man I'd say the lesions on either the brain or spine have increase, or at least gotten bigger. Doesn't matter either way, I just need some relief.

Down Syndrome Kid Scores Toughdown

2010-09-28T23:06:00.002-04:00

Maybe there is hope for the youth of America after all? These kids stepped up and did a good thing for a kid that will never forget it. Feel good news.

Political Ads and Maryland Politics

2010-09-28T19:00:00.003-04:00

Who gets my first email about all the political ads on TV? I wanted to get rid of cable, just go with analog, but I lost a family vote, curses! Kind of glad I lost, network TV is one long political ad, and I think they are all lying. One candidate is running on their accomplishments, Barbara Milkulski, but she's been in office for 100 years, running against a guy that made a commercial that looked like the show crocodile hunter. Eric Wargotz said he considers himself a "constitutional conservative" and an "Old Testament kind of guy."

OK, what's the big difference, is this the change having to do with how much money can be donated? That needs to be changed tomorrow if this is the result. I've seen the one gubernatorial ad at lest 15 times today, and I don't watch anything during the day, and that's not the only one I've seen. All of them are contradicting each other, someone is lying! WBAL says Kratovil changed his ad, told the truth, kind of, lies of omission, I wouldn't know, neither Harris or Kratovil have returned my emails. Don't forget there are 2 other people running, Libertarian Dr Richard Davis, and Independent Jack Wilson.

Boy Bowls 2 800 Series In One Day, and Weight Reaching Critical Mass

2010-09-26T23:31:00.003-04:00

The boy had a great day bowling today, was in 2 different leagues. We got a message as we were leaving church, he bowled another 800 series this morning, a 816. We sent him a text, you don't talk to your kids anymore, you text, told him how proud we were. Came home ate lunch, watched the Ravens play, go Ravens! The boy called a few hours later, he did it again, a 805! 2 800+ series in one day, he is the man.

Been having oogy feelings lately, feel kind of like I'm going to pass out, get real flushed, turn blood red, blood pressure soars. I need to do something, I know it, but it's gotten so hard to do, losing weight is no fun. I'm a big guy, always have been, but I'm too big, have to drop some tonnage. Have to start pushing myself away from the table, sitting on my exercise bike and watch the news, something. Always thought I'd get shot by a jealous husband on my 100th birthday, not explode in my chair before my 50th.

Church Chicken Dinner, and MS Leg Death

2010-09-25T20:09:00.005-04:00

Church had a chicken dinner tonight, we went expecting chicken that was either raw in the middle, or cooked to a pulp. Imagine how happy we were to have one of the best meals we've had in a while. The secret was they cooked the chicken in the oven before finishing it off on the grill. It's nice to get out and do something you want to do and to have it be so tasty! If church ever gets tired of the religion part, they have a real future in the chicken dinner business.

Legs are pretty well used up today, they hurt from the time I woke up this morning. I've been riding my recumbent exercise bike, kind of hoping this is a good sign, but I'm scared of things these days. What if it was too much, what if that's why my back hurts too? At some point I'm going to have to ignore these thoughts and push through, am I there yet? Think I may be. I think it's time to man the wall at the alamo, put all my eggs in one basket, go for broke, come up with more cliques! Exercise until I feel better, or can't walk at all.

Let's All Cheat The Government

2010-09-24T22:22:00.004-04:00

Talking with someone tonight about the high cost of college tuition. The girl transferred from a private college to a public one in the city, good for all of this. We talked about fafsa and how the family benefit hurt us so much, thought it was high. The guy I was talking with said he is depending on financial aid, should be good since he has always been self employed, never really showed any income. Never any income? That would be called theft! Why do people tell things, did he think I was going to say, way to go, good job cheating the government, but don't worry, I paid my share, so we're cool. But I'd of been the bad guy to have said that, funny.

I Think I Emailed Kratovil?

2010-09-23T22:24:00.002-04:00

Seems I was sending my email to Frank Kratovil to the wrong spot! I apologize for the error, already received an automated response. But was it an error? I think one is his office page, the other his election page? Either way, it has been sent to both!

Sex at the Rec Center, and Harris-Kratovil Still Not Responding To My Question

2010-09-23T21:32:00.002-04:00

It was another beautiful day here, took my chair and went to the park, met a friend and sat. We had a good time, talked about our thoughts on life, had a few laughs. Time to head home I have to go past that little parking lot I had the problem with the other day and of course there's a car parked there again. They weren't in a handicapped spot, they were just having a sexual encounter in the middle of the day, FYI, your windows aren't that tinted!

Resent my emails to Harris-Kratovil today, still no answer. This is what I sent.

Sent to Kratovil, cc'd to Harris

I am resending this question as I have not yet heard any response, I look forward to your response.

Andy

I saw one of your ads last night, it claimed Harris is in favor of
raising the sales tax to, or by 23%. My question is when did he say it,
in what context, and where can I find it? I eagerly await your answer.

Andy

Sent to Harris, cc'd to Kratovil

I am resending this question as I have not yet heard any response, I look forward to your response.

Andy

I am trying to figure out an ad I saw last night, it was a Kratovil ad
claiming you were in favor of raising the sales tax to, or by 23% . My
question is did you say it, or do you know what the Kratovil camp is
talking about? I eagerly await your answer.

Andy

Once again, you would think the one telling the truth would respond?

Too Fat For Ecopods

2010-09-23T00:29:00.002-04:00

Was just reading about recycled paper coffins called ecopods, pretty cool concept. I want something like that when the time comes, no embalming, just put me in the ground at church. No viewings, don't want people talking about how good I look, stick a walnut up my ass and plant me. Well it's all planned, nothing to it, until I noticed I'm too big for the pods! If that isn't the ultimate slap, I'm too fat to die!

No Answer From Kratovil-Harris, Multiple Sclerosis and Temperature Change

2010-09-21T19:22:00.004-04:00

I sent Harris and Kratovil both emails, CC'd the other on each, waiting to hear from them about the 23% sales tax issue. Saw the ad again tonight, not only has a footnote for Harris' page, but it also has a link for fairtax.org. I went there to see what I could see, don't see anything for Harris, just a bunch of places to donate money, can't wait for someone to point me in the right direction. You'd think the dude that's telling the truth would get back in touch?

Long day today, got up early, could not sleep. When I say early I don't mean like 9ish, I'm talking like 5 am, cramps and pain in my legs. Came down to the command center, had all the windows open, it was great, I think it was in the high 40's. Don't know about anyone else, but my MS kills me when the weather does this jumping around thing. Say 50 this morning, 86 tomorrow, who do I call about regulating the temperature? I need it to stay in one place, either summer or fall, not each.

Harris-Kratovil Political Ads Are Lies, But Which One is Lying

2010-09-20T21:14:00.003-04:00

I try not to do politics here, and this isn't intended to be one side or the other, but somebody is lying. Just saw a Kratovil ad that said his opponent Harris favors a 23% sales tax increase, even going as far as giving the Harris web address, so I went. Harris says it's not true, he never said it, it's a lie. OK, one them is telling the truth, one of them is in fact lying! That's just the tip of it, every contest has the same ads, we are in trouble.