How much could I do today?

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It’s time for today’s episode of What Made Sherrie’s Body Quit! The game where that line between ‘good’ and ‘nope’ moves on a daily basis.

I loaded the dishwasher and cleaned food from the fridge. The full plan included wiping down the fridge inside and out, dumping trash and recycling, and finishing up the load in the dryer. What happened? Fibromyalgia and arthritis. My spine is on fire daily and I know the signs of needing to quit. My ribs, though? They decided to jump in. My side decided to scream in protest as I moved things off the fridge shelves. Then the pain radiated to the front, sparking an episode of ‘Heart or Ribs?’ That game requires dropping everything to make sure it isn’t my heart.

Before anyone makes a snide comment about that fat girl being out of shape, I’ve been fatter and in worse shape. I’m not out of breath. I’m in pain.

This isn’t an attempt to gain sympathy. It’s a straight look into my afternoon. The stupidity of the decisions that are needed just to keep pain at a lower level so I can function. It’s not fun or a game when cleaning the kitchen could result in a day of bed to couch and back. And don’t get me started on the which meds to take decision. Do I take the prescribed stuff and have a full on high or the otc stuff and tear up my stomach? There’s more to it, but yeah.

And that ends today’s game. Xena says hi by the way. She’s not thrilled about the game, but it does mean extra snuggles.

See you later.

Rant

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If you are not in the mood for a bit of anger and frustration, definitely skip this one. This is all off the top of my head with no edits. This shows you where I am when I turn my filters off. But without the swearing.

I do not understand why finding help for chronic issues is so difficult. I don’t understand how or why treatment rarely takes other issues into consideration. And I really do not understand why pieces of a patient take priority over the patient as a whole.

Here’s an example using my issues. Nerve impingement in different areas of my body are treated by three different docs. The resulting pain is amplified by the Fibromyalgia. My neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands are a numb, tingly, painful, and weakening mess. The allowances I make to ease the pressure on my neck and shoulders are not the best for my elbows, wrists, and hands. What could be best for them may aggravate my neck and shoulders.

Was that a jumbled mess? I hope not. If so, it’s a reflection of my frustration. How do I choose which pain has to take priority? I’ve been trying to compartmentalize the issues for ages and now my body has had more than enough. I am screaming. Screaming in pain, frustration, and in hopes the screaming takes the edge off.

At least I’m not getting the ‘just lose weight’ suggestions. Yet.

I am not seeking drugs. I need answers so I can feel better. I do not expect to get to 100% ever again. I just want to stop screaming.

The next post will be different. For now, I see Jerrod Carmichael’s new HBO special and spring rolls in my future. Beyond that, I’m undecided.

See you next time.

So, how was your day?

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How goes your Sunday? Your weekend so far? I’ve been playing with this week’s menus (individual breakfast and lunch and family dinner), trying to plan for a work schedule that will not knock me out of a general home stuff schedule, and staring at the cutie pup and cutie I married on an off. Can you believe we’ve been together for 23 years?

Anyway, for breakfast this week, the plan is to alternate oats with protein and fruit and protein shakes with fruit and greens, and smoothie bowls (protein with greens, topped with fruit and oats or nuts and/or seeds). For lunch, I’m thinking salads (hot or cold) with protein (beans, tofu, or tempeh) or soup if it’s not too hot. Family dinners are always the most difficult because pleasing everyone while sticking to my goals do not always align. I am not down for the short order cook life these days. Sides are always easy – a batch of rice, greens, and one or two batches of beans. I can see Taco (or TexMex) Tuesday this week and think a bowl will work best for me. I’m thinking red beans and rice with greens will be a nice dinner on Monday or Wednesday. As always, there will be a leftovers night. That’s about as far as I’ve gotten. What does your meal plan look like? Share because your girl could use ideas!

If you want to chat about food or our anniversary celebration, give me a shout. You know I’m around.
See ya!

Chapter 53 is a go

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Welp, it’s been a minute. I’ve been posting regularly on social media, so anything shared here for the part you’ve seen if you follow me. Here are the updates since January.

*Two jabs in the cervical spine
*A new rheumatologist, new tests, and new meds
*A new specialist for my hand/wrist/elbow pain and strength issues (first appointment pending)
*Increased pain, stiffness, and ability to function in general (thanks to pain, weakness, and cognitive issues)
*More daily screaming (pain and frustration)

And a big one – Chapter 53 began on March 30. I am now 13 years older than my dad when he died. I miss him and think he’d like who I grew to become. No make up and in flare central. Basically everyday lately, just a little older.


That’s it for now because my Saturday spoons are almost gone. Hopefully an hour or so with an ice pack or at least a nap will do the trick. Until next time, peace!



So, it’s 2022

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I don’t have much to say about it so far. I don’t want to say anything about resolutions or goals. Not that I don’t have any goals, but I am feeling a little pessimistic about what the year may bring. I was excited about the end of 2020 and look how that turned out.

Here’s to the dumpster fires of the past two years going out. Here’s to better health and happiness to all. Here’s to karma. Here’s to being a better person.

Until next time, peace!

Do you use CBD oil for pain relief?

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Greetings, all! As you may know, I live with chronic pain. Some days are much better than others thanks to physical therapy, learning how to move more effectively, meds, and herbal teas. Something else that seems to help some days is CBD oil.

I’ve experimented with the concentration over the years and have found 1500-2500 mg full-spectrum formulas helpful. I do have to take supplemental meds some non-flare days, so I’m going to try a higher concentration.

If you are considering giving CBD a try, do some research. I don’t mean random sites you may find or the sales pitch from a buddy who will receive a commission. Ask your doctor for sources, especially if you have a pain management specialist. My doc is willing to help me find solutions that do not involve heavy meds but does not hesitate to fuss at me if I am about to make an error.

You can start your research with Dr. Andrew Colucci’s article and review his resources. Also, check the reviews for specific brands on Amazon. You don’t have to shop there but will see what other shoppers think. I tend to start with the two-star reviews then go to three-star reviews. Those tend to be more honest in my opinion.

So, do you use CBD as a supplement or your main pain relief option? Let me know.

Until next time, peace.

Last-minute gifts

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Can you believe that there are only 10 days until Christmas and two weeks left in the year?  I’m ready to say good riddance to 2021 and I’m sure aI’m not alone. 

Have you completed shopping yet? I have not myself and will be baking goodies as a gift supplement. Don’t worry, y’all, I do keep the goodness as holiday goodness and only tweak to make things healthier if ther are strict dietary concerns. 

If you need ideas other than gift cards, here are a few options. 

If you have an amatuer chef on your list, a really good kife is an option. Sam’s Club and Costco have decent sets available.  If a knife is not on your mid, cutting boards, a nice measureing cup and spoon set (skip the plastic), or an apron would be appreciated. 

If a book lover is on your list, you can go with paper or a Kindle for e-book fans. Check the best-seller lists and also take a dive into a beleoved author’s titles and pick up one that the gift recipient would love.  If a coobkook addict is on your list (hint, hint), take a peek at what thie addict has on hand and pick up a companion title or try something a little different. 

Do you have a gamer on your list?  Honestly, a gift card may be vest unless you have requests.  Witha  gift card, they can pick up expansion packs for a game they already love or pick up a game they have their eye on. Gamers can be particular about their equipment, so keep that in mind as you shop. 

I hope these suggestions help.  I’ll add another list of suggestions another time.  

Untl next time, peace!