tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18216391949148038482024-03-05T15:27:52.743-08:00My New LifeThis is my new life after being diagnosed with an incurable bladder disease,called Interstitial Cystitis.
My hope is that you will be enlightened and inspired by my blog. I also want to raise awareness for Interstitial Cystits (IC) and educate others about this disease.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-30292008615812075022014-07-13T12:27:00.002-07:002014-10-11T11:59:46.866-07:00My Blog Has A New Home<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My blog has a new home now. Just go to <a href="http://www.icmynewlife.com/">www.icmynewlife.com</a> to see my latest posts.</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span>T<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">hank you for your support and </span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope you will continue to follow me and my blog.</span> Hugs an prayers to all!</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-76813753078936010992014-06-01T19:53:00.000-07:002014-06-03T14:41:17.889-07:00Just Keep Going!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There was a very sweet lady in our
church. She was always thinking of others and doing for others. Even
when she started having big health issues, she didn't let it get in her
way of serving others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I can't help but compare my own life and health issues with hers. She was such an inspiration to me to<span style="color: blue;"><b> "just keep going."</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There
is not a single person alive, that if they live long enough, who will
not be faced with difficulties with their health, relationships or
finances,etc. I believe when we are faced with these difficult
situations it is similar to coming to a fork in the road.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are we going to go one way and complain constantly, get mad at God and feel sorry for ourselves all the time? Or are we going to <span style="color: blue;"><b>"just keep going,"</b></span> find peace with God and not use all our energy feeling sorry for ourselves. Neither way is "a walk in the park," but I have faith that if we <span style="color: blue;"><b>"just keep going"</b></span> our journey will be easier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Doing
things you love, surrounding yourself with positive people and having a
"can do" attitude make our problems less difficult. I'm not saying you
will be free from pain, discomfort or worry, but things will be <i><b>easier</b></i> with a<i><b> better attitude.</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
sweet lady from my church that was always thinking of others passed away this week.
At the funeral my pastor said "By the way Ms. Hazel lived her life, she preached her own funeral."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Those words touched my heart. I thought what a beautiful way to be remembered.
It was obvious that she affected many lives in a positive way, by the vast number of
people at her funeral. Many of which stood up and shared a story about what they recalled about Ms. Hazel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I want to be remembered like that!! She had a servant's attitude toward others. Instead of "a what's in for me" kind of demeanor. She showed love to others all of the time. She had a meaningful relationship with the Lord that she shared with others. And when things got tough in her life she <span style="color: blue;"><b>"just kept going!"</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She was a special lady and a great model of how a Christian should live their life. I want to have that loving, servant attitude that <span style="color: blue;">"just keeps going"</span> as long as possible!!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-76431102982720359822014-05-25T16:41:00.001-07:002014-05-25T16:44:55.700-07:00Listen To Your Body<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">On my way home from work Monday I was thinking that as soon as I made it home I was "hitting the hay." Instead when I walked in my husband said "Do you want to take a walk?" Of course I didn't really feel like it but it gives us a chance to exercise together and talk together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It really is a good way for me to release any stress I have from work and ask for Alan's feedback. He has ALWAYS given me good advice. However; the problem on this particular day was I needed to<b><i> <span style="color: blue;">listen to my body</span></i></b><span style="color: blue;"> </span>and rest. As it turned out I didn't rest much at all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Once I was back at the house I decided I needed to pay some bills and balance my checkbook. By the time we ate supper and I took my bath, I was exhausted.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The next day after work I made sure that I <span style="color: blue;"><b><i>listened to my body</i></b></span>...I came home and took a nap. It was one of those naps where you fall asleep and wake up over and over. Not very good sleep but rest none the less. My bladder and sciatica were bothering me that day. When I woke up I was in still in pain.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ92cBuIju_AqEfBeKGmZf3CaNB40KQtjVmtzsES4Fy1By08vTWV4CdOqqA22mJuc9sMSTnnAXZDprx5pnYxbEQ1gJL2PU2jzhPotZVzg1IPjlhAnpl52M47tXix1vv6-OSJO4BZnh7dTV/s1600/IMG_0718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ92cBuIju_AqEfBeKGmZf3CaNB40KQtjVmtzsES4Fy1By08vTWV4CdOqqA22mJuc9sMSTnnAXZDprx5pnYxbEQ1gJL2PU2jzhPotZVzg1IPjlhAnpl52M47tXix1vv6-OSJO4BZnh7dTV/s1600/IMG_0718.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Scooter McScoot</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Scooter, one of my cats, came to my rescue. She joined me in bed and crawled up on my chest. She is a tiny cat. When she opens her mouth to meow all that comes out is a wee little squeak. Some of the other cats pick on her because she is so small. She has a very faint purr. But when I pet her a lot her purr is very fast and soothing. She is always a sweetheart and loves to be petted. I enjoyed her company for about thirty minutes and then I got up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I felt much better after<span style="color: blue;"> <b><i>listening to my body</i></b>,</span> taking a nap and enjoying the comfort of one of my fury friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What about spiritual rest for our souls??! When we are weary and we need comfort Jesus commands us to come to Him and not rely on ourselves. We are to come to Him as disciples who want to learn from Him not just to receive something from Him. He promises us a very powerful gift "rest for the soul." It doesn't get any better than that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My advice is to<b><i> <span style="color: blue;">listen to your body</span></i></b> when it is telling you it needs to rest. When your spirits are down and you don't know what to do, ask Jesus to hep you. He wants you to come to Him and depend on Him totally. And like Snoopy says "Learn from yesterday and rest this afternoon!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-11199504292040834882014-05-18T18:12:00.000-07:002014-05-18T18:12:25.019-07:00I Am A Flower<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I hurriedly tried to clean my house and make it as comfortable as possible for my family, I also had a sense of excitement. It has been months since I had seen some of them. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was also Mother's Day and I looked forward to celebrating the life of my mother. </span> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alan, my husband, had to work so I knew I wouldn't be able to commit to cooking too. My sister happily volunteered her husband for the duty. She also said she would do all of the grocery shopping. I will gladly host the party if you do all the shopping and cooking!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My brother and his wife arrived about 2:00. Then my sister and her husband and my Mom. I quickly asked my sister-in-law to help me. She started preparing the hamburger patties. My sister joined in by preparing the vegetables, etc. I had already prepared a few things to go along with the meal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My brother-in-law took charge of grilling the burgers. It took a long time, but I was so thankful that he was able to help so much. He has major pain issues of his own. But he is fighting the fight that many of us know daily. I appreciate his help with all of our family celebrations. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mama was able to sit back and relax and enjoy her visit with our family and my brother's fury friend. I thought she looked great and I was so thankful to celebrate the life of a strong, intelligent, kind, faith-filled inspiration in my life.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The flower I gave her matched her shirt</span>!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Later that same evening, about 7:30, my daughter came by to see me. She had worked twelve hours and I know that she was tired. I was so happy that she came by to visit. She gave me the sweetest card ever. It made me very emotional. It was so thoughtful. She also gave me one of those gecko looking things to hang on the wall. This one is blue, green and purple. I can't wait to add him to my collection!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKaXUNYuhOHy57xOFAua98uiU22lSukox7LOa9cdD-SCtFY1k_CsOZxoHYU83ZUPUDsB9BZpOM2DPI_FHRibO30YB31pX6rK_r2q-ubXHlQitl1CIUbRxkCg5mV5Q4ZbkzM-gnpkMlZ-H/s1600/IMG_0870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKaXUNYuhOHy57xOFAua98uiU22lSukox7LOa9cdD-SCtFY1k_CsOZxoHYU83ZUPUDsB9BZpOM2DPI_FHRibO30YB31pX6rK_r2q-ubXHlQitl1CIUbRxkCg5mV5Q4ZbkzM-gnpkMlZ-H/s1600/IMG_0870.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have to admit that in the moment of all these things I took them for granted. For one thing I was sooo tired. I had been up and down out of my chair so many times. I was kaput! But now that I have had time to reflect on the moments, I realize just how special they were.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How many times do we take God for granted? We just go along day after day not even thinking of Him at all until something goes wrong and then we expect Him to take care of everything. We continue to sin and He continues to love us. We continue to sin and He forgives us as if nothing happened. He loves us not because of anything that we do, but because of who He is.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> He loves us despite how many times we fail Him.</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <span style="color: purple;"><b><i>I am a flower quickly fading</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple;"><b><i>Here today and gone tomorrow. God and His love are forever!</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> He loves us despite how many times we fail Him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-67384865367723413922014-05-11T16:49:00.002-07:002014-05-11T17:45:55.636-07:00My Little Angel<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2doTiZ-Fn8/U27LsYe-dPI/AAAAAAAAA40/c09xU21aHY0/s1600/Proverbs+31+30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2doTiZ-Fn8/U27LsYe-dPI/AAAAAAAAA40/c09xU21aHY0/s1600/Proverbs+31+30.jpg" height="146" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I am delighted to report that I think the Epidural Steroid Injection has helped relieve some of the sciatic nerve pain in my left leg. I will thankfully take one step down on the pain scale any day of the week!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This past weekend there was a large amount of blood in my urine. It really concerned me. I called the doctor on call at the hospital and he said he could see me the next day. I went in and gave an urine sample and he said he didn't see any signs of infection.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Monday I called my Urogynecologist and he sent me to the Imagining Center for an IVP. The young man that was performing the test was very kind and reassuring. He explained everything that he was going to do step by step. When he told me he would do an IV and inject contrast in my bladder I said MY BLADDDER??!! I had already told him that I have Interstitial Cystitis (IC) and he understood my concern with putting anything into my bladder. He told me it would be fine. I said " Okay, if you are sure, let's do this!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">He was so thoughtful that he called my doctor just to make sure and to put my mind at ease. My doctor confirmed that she (my bladder) would be fine. I knew I was in good hands with this guy because he told me that his wife has IC too. What were the odds of that happening??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">He made my visit on that cold, hard table as pleasant as it could be. He wrapped a compression device my belly to help keep the dye in my kidneys. I told him he was all over my "no touch zone," but I made my mind up to endure not being comfortable to hopefully get some answers about what is going on with me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Later that day I called the doctor's office for the results. The test confirmed that there were no kidney stones. When I went to see my doctor he said my urine test strip showed blood, but under the microscope he did not see any signs of infection. He sent the sample to be cultured. I should know the results on Monday. My body has become a mystery and we are just trying to figure it out with one clue at a time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My daughter, Miranda, came over to do some house cleaning for me the next day. That afternoon at work extreme exhaustion took over my body. I came home and rested in the bed for a few minutes. Miranda was close by cleaning so we were able to talk for a few minutes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Then she closed my bedroom door a little and began doing different things around the house. I resolved to use this time to hear the sounds that she made and ponder them in my heart. She fed the cats. I could her the pitter-patter of her cute little feet walking across the floor. Soon she was off in another room singing. My heart was exuberant with love, joy and thankfulness. The sound of her singing lifted my spirits. To me that was my like an angel from heaven singing to me an early Mother's Day gift.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitla-HWp103bvwsO5x8ad4gBsNyC1Yr5J8Y25hatGj_6_hyphenhyphenq5NT6w_emNZnHlGfe9-PgEbOzXK2o6r6bonqfj7ACpch24I_Y_DVsIKrSLOfGd34XCICS1wmW4Chgp6Re8hGtkLJfDvEG5f/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitla-HWp103bvwsO5x8ad4gBsNyC1Yr5J8Y25hatGj_6_hyphenhyphenq5NT6w_emNZnHlGfe9-PgEbOzXK2o6r6bonqfj7ACpch24I_Y_DVsIKrSLOfGd34XCICS1wmW4Chgp6Re8hGtkLJfDvEG5f/s1600/011.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My Little Angel</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I decided to take a pain pill and get out of bed and enjoy my alone time with my daughter as much as I could. It was a special time. Even though my body failed me. The Lord blessed my heart with her visit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Happy Mother's Day to all women. We are all unique and we all have special talents. Let's use them to love and serve others just as <b><i><span style="color: purple;">my little angel </span></i></b>did!! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxui23ajviqG2ooVBJA-UnXs2RTue3uB8hqIoMMikTzZN0HxvG_YeGRkyJZ69g9XevqG_489l7cOcben-28k4blIsHyJTQ5WF2CXCcsbR7lzM_v8X7MFZB5Z6OrnAkpoQ49bju7m9IRscz/s1600/happy-mothers-day+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxui23ajviqG2ooVBJA-UnXs2RTue3uB8hqIoMMikTzZN0HxvG_YeGRkyJZ69g9XevqG_489l7cOcben-28k4blIsHyJTQ5WF2CXCcsbR7lzM_v8X7MFZB5Z6OrnAkpoQ49bju7m9IRscz/s1600/happy-mothers-day+2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-11509057417619299852014-05-04T14:36:00.000-07:002014-05-04T14:36:24.295-07:00Pain Demons<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Monday I went for my second visit to Pain Management. I had the pleasure of a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection. Since the injection in my sacroiliac joint two weeks ago did not seem to help we tried something different.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was not fun. I felt a lot of pressure almost like a menstrual cramp (a dull achy pain) in my back during the injection. My husband drove me home and I rested most of the evening.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyraH97fPfoqSPeMhjw_e5OWXykgTkIv4KvFhKI1jcuyUy2vcYWdznXAeAKrkLAPUJfX5lr9RlNk3AHxx31fmp349d3DxbvMMiH8ZCtawUoH-osonctoH6gnIf79X9mpGFPbepLI4A8KJp/s1600/IMG_0579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyraH97fPfoqSPeMhjw_e5OWXykgTkIv4KvFhKI1jcuyUy2vcYWdznXAeAKrkLAPUJfX5lr9RlNk3AHxx31fmp349d3DxbvMMiH8ZCtawUoH-osonctoH6gnIf79X9mpGFPbepLI4A8KJp/s1600/IMG_0579.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My Tigger Took A Selfie</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next day after work I was in bed with a lot of pain. I think the <b><i>pain demons </i></b>were cranking up the level. Almost as if to say to me...You are not getting rid of us!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of my kitties were in bed with me. I felt a great sense of comfort from Tigger. I concentrated on the soothing sound of his intense purr. He is one of my oldest and most friendly cats. He starts purring when you move or look at him. He is such a sweetie!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPv9rdmDviyN4TVy3FfaAQhvGimRnIMeP4gwTLtU5JfzDnmcjS887oa0KXXDxj9KU1xbCtSzkbKH7U5nqRT7jPddlYYBhgXEYp-YbAsVDJc31cexO8fumB7LNCGWZqPzBtuLMm3UZr14V/s1600/cats-in-bikini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPv9rdmDviyN4TVy3FfaAQhvGimRnIMeP4gwTLtU5JfzDnmcjS887oa0KXXDxj9KU1xbCtSzkbKH7U5nqRT7jPddlYYBhgXEYp-YbAsVDJc31cexO8fumB7LNCGWZqPzBtuLMm3UZr14V/s1600/cats-in-bikini.jpg" height="256" width="320" /> </a></span></td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Is That My Tigger Wearing a Bikini??!!</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I am feeling bad I try to take a break and enjoy the little things in life. The wonderful, warm sunshine coming through the windows in my living room. The picture of my beautiful daughter on her wedding day hanging on my refrigerator. The colorful flowers starting to bloom on my deck. The cute, tiny baby birds that were just born in a nest on my front porch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Take charge of the things you CAN control. You might be sick or be feeling lousy but don't let Interstitial Cystitis or Fibromyalgia or loneliness or whatever you are feeling take control of your life. Take a break and enjoy life. Ask God to help you and guide you. You can always count on Him. Regardless of your crisis God is always trustworthy!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-61432691212064114402014-04-27T11:02:00.000-07:002014-05-03T16:26:57.274-07:00Broken, Empty and Lonely<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have been working very hard, long hours at The Construction Company this week. I have been going in early and staying late. I was working all kinds of different hours, but each day when I left the office and I turned on the radio the exact same song was playing. You may say what a coincidence...I don't think so! Take a listen for yourself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sidewalk Prophets "Keep Making Me." Live Acoustic Version. Lyrics </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The song lyrics are about wanting to be<b><i> broken, empty and lonely</i></b>. Sounds a little crazy doesn't it? Why would anyone WANT to be all of these things or ANY of these things?!! Because when adversity hits, we are exposed. Our true feelings about God come out in the questions we ask Him and the actions we take.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"Why me God??" or "Why are you doing this to me God??!!" Sound familiar?? It does to me! Sometimes when we ask God , "Why are you letting this happen to me?" It may be how we truly feel, but we are accusing God of doing something wrong...ouch! We are just sure we don't deserve what has come our way. But sometimes our trials have nothing to do with what we deserve. Sometimes our trials help us grow closer to God or they help develop character or validate our worship as I read in "Journey" magazine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />This is exactly why I don't want to be healed of all my aches and pains...because all of my pains "keep me real." It would be hard to turn back for me now. Since I have experienced pain and I am broken I am more sensitive to the needs of others. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For three days I worked long hours at the office, but I still felt good. On my lunch break one day I even felt go enough to go shopping!!! I was feeling so happy and "normal." Late Thursday evening I could feel the life being sucked out of every inch of my body. This life was replaced with increased leg and bladder pain and I felt achy all over my body. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This experience brought me back to reality very swiftly. But my new reality is not all bad. My new reality helps me to have compassion for others when they are hurting. I can relate and I am not "so calloused."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is in those deep, dark, empty times<b><i> that</i></b> is when we need to stop thinking about what <b><i>we want</i></b>, but seek God's will for our lives. That's when we are vulnerable and we are open to change our bad habits. Like the habit of telling God what needs to happen in our lives...God I don't deserve this..."still holding onto my will."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed those days when I felt good. It was so refreshing not to feel lousy all the time. I appreciate my good days very much! But now I understand why I must be<i><b> broken, empty and lonely</b></i> sometimes. It shows me the true nature of my relationship with God.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana\, sans-serif";"><br />
You can email me:</span></b>
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<a href="mailto:bbbennett65@gmail.com"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">bbbennett65@gmail.com</span></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana\, sans-serif";">You can follow me on Twitter:</span></b>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">You can follow me on Pinterest:</b></span>
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<span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"></span><a href="http://pinterest.com/bbbennett65">http://pinterest.com/bbbennett65</a></div>
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<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="font-family: Vijaya, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>"<u>Keep Making Me</u>"</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="font-size: large;">
</span></span><span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="font-family: Vijaya, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Make me broken<br />So I can be
healed<br />'Cause I'm so calloused<br />And now I can't feel<br />I want
to run to You<br />With heart wide open<br />Make me broken<br /><br />Make
me empty<br />So I can be filled<br />'Cause I'm still holding<br />Onto my
will<br />And I'm completed<br />When you are with me<br />Make me
empty<br /><br /><i>[Chorus:]</i><br />'Til You are my one desire<br />'Til
You are my one true love<br />'Til You are my breath, my
everything<br />Lord, please keep making me<br /><br />Make me lonely<br />So
I can be Yours<br />'Til I want no one<br />More than You, Lord<br />'Cause
in the darkness<br />I know You will hold me<br />Make me
lonely<br /><br /><i>[Chorus]</i><br /><br />'Til You are my one desire<br />'Til
You are my one true love<br />'Til You are my breath, my
everything<br />Lord, please keep making,<br />I know You'll keep
making<br />Lord, please keep making me </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="font-family: Vijaya, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Songwriters:</i></b> MCDONALD, BEN/FREY, DAVID DOUGLAS/MIZELL, SAMUEL C.<br /> </span></span>
<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="font-size: large;">
</span></span><span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="font-family: Vijaya, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0North America33.521857911758175 -80.41406393051147530.177801911758174 -85.577637930511472 36.865913911758177 -75.250489930511478tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-42048038663952274642014-04-19T15:08:00.001-07:002014-04-25T17:07:26.716-07:00Desperation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisezoDgfaN8f1dxGd70GmJDgKt2MPHyhXjI6hyhk3fw8lGcyX38WPKv3FPb4UosCWigAcU9rHeKvDvsUoY6QLQ6KcdF49HkJr26Erz7SdQJ4TBk0ygI45Mj9pWgh6EgTWEpJNSGcV0R0a2/s1600/He+is+risen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisezoDgfaN8f1dxGd70GmJDgKt2MPHyhXjI6hyhk3fw8lGcyX38WPKv3FPb4UosCWigAcU9rHeKvDvsUoY6QLQ6KcdF49HkJr26Erz7SdQJ4TBk0ygI45Mj9pWgh6EgTWEpJNSGcV0R0a2/s1600/He+is+risen.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My daughter, Miranda had a few bad days with the kidney stone. I went to see her Sunday and she looked like she felt better. She has gone back to work and says she hasn't had any pain in days. I am thankful to God that she is not suffering anymore!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since I have been diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis (IC) I have had chronic pain. I have chronic pelvic, back and sciatic pain. I have tried several different treatments and I have had some improvements, but the sciatica seems to be worse. I recently decided to go to pain management. In my mind this was always a last resort. I would only go if I had exhausted all my other options. Well, here I am. It seems there are no other options and I am desperate.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My appointment was scheduled for this week. I went with high expectations and a hopeful heart. After a brief discussion with the pain management doctor, we decided to try a steroid injection in my sacroiliac joint. The thought process was that my issue may be sacroiliitis instead of sciatica. It seemed like a good option with minimal risk.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After the injection I went to work and felt good for that day. The next day I felt good too. I thought this was the "magic" I needed. However, by Wednesday my sciatica came back.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last Sunday morning after I first woke up I reached out to move some clothes and I hollered out in pain. I had pulled a muscle in my back. So I had started taking muscle relaxers. After thinking about, the couple of days when I felt good were when I was taking the muscle relaxers. Whatever the reason the pain is still there so I will have to keep trying.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When you are in desperate situations you do desperate things. I was recently at a small Bible study group. We were discussing the betrayal of Peter. He felt desperate and he denied Jesus three times. Sounds like a terrible thing to do but if we were in Peter's situation we may have done the same thing. We might even do it on a daily basis and don't even realize it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Peter said he would stand by Jesus even if he had to die with him. He said he would never disown him. He denied Him three different times. After Peter realized what had happened his faith was made stronger. I told the small group that it reminded me of my life with IC. When I first became sick I believe my faith was being tested. Even though I was a Christian I questioned why I was suffering. It was as if I was relying on just myself to make it through the difficult times.</span><br />
<blockquote>
<b><span class="versetext" id="lu22-60" style="display: inline;"> "</span></b><b><span class="versetext" id="lu22-61" style="display: inline;">The Lord<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="49"></a> turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: <span class="WordsOfChrist">"Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times."<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="50"></a></span> </span><span class="versetext" id="lu22-62" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>
And he went outside and wept bitterly." Luke 22: 61-62</span><br /><span class="versetext" id="lu22-62" style="display: inline;"></span></b></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Through this whole crazy ride at least one thing has improved. I know I trust God through the most negative of circumstances. I have developed a deeper dependence on God. I rely on God and His Word to make it through each day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We can say what we think we will do in certain circumstances but until we are "warming by the fire of the enemy" we do not know exactly what we will do. We can build our faith by studying God's word, praying and making every effort to make God first in our lives so that we can hopefull have a faith building experience...just like Peter. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidB6fIk17XPsnV_Du6Qvee5QovWFfhP3TcV6gitNraR03SLqh3fBySbaVw1vmB7LQ8Dn0UM5gtdjNPe1bKKftdtMWRMVlIWQ8HaQ315PR9X-Aqs_Le-a3n7Wvy05127a8pnD6Zj-57Be5r/s1600/Peter-Denies-Jesus-610x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidB6fIk17XPsnV_Du6Qvee5QovWFfhP3TcV6gitNraR03SLqh3fBySbaVw1vmB7LQ8Dn0UM5gtdjNPe1bKKftdtMWRMVlIWQ8HaQ315PR9X-Aqs_Le-a3n7Wvy05127a8pnD6Zj-57Be5r/s1600/Peter-Denies-Jesus-610x350.jpg" height="183" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Peter warming by the fire.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-63593485888159631692014-04-14T16:54:00.001-07:002014-04-19T09:57:20.411-07:00No Mama<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4eMjXmxgpb-1EzohUGtDnTlSEjwncQeiYBjDPRIuIfW7cyHeq-zHZLbYNZ__cHUzDSodZlSQUCkh6wByVUrVT1nz5vy8mQkq0emiNKL52nmnAqKEpUPxOcCDeZJPqRoc1I78CIAZE2MF/s1600/emergency.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4eMjXmxgpb-1EzohUGtDnTlSEjwncQeiYBjDPRIuIfW7cyHeq-zHZLbYNZ__cHUzDSodZlSQUCkh6wByVUrVT1nz5vy8mQkq0emiNKL52nmnAqKEpUPxOcCDeZJPqRoc1I78CIAZE2MF/s1600/emergency.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It was 6:31 a.m.and my phone rang. There is never good news on
the other end when your phone rings at such an early hour. Especially
at my house. Most of my family and friends know that I have trouble
sleeping, so I am a late riser. Come to think of it I have always
been a late riser by nature.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">On the other end was my daughter. She was at the Emergency Room
with pain and nausea. She has had this a couple times before and she
pretty much knew it was another kidney stone. She woke up about 3:00
am in pain and knew she needed to see a doctor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">She called me and asked if I could come up there. As I was
getting dressed to go meet her and her husband at the hospital, I was
texting her husband and asking various questions. I asked if she
needed anything and what time he had to go to work.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">He then called me and told me that she had thrown up and her pain
level dropped to about a five. I said that I still wanted to go to
the hospital. He said that she was feeling much better now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">A few minutes later she called me and I told her I was on my way
up there. But she said in that certain tone that I know she really
means it,<i><b> “No Mama.” </b></i>She said she shouldn't have even bothered
me and that she doesn't have as much pain and that she will be fine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I didn't like it, but I decided not to go. I went back to sleep,
so I could rest some more before I went to work. I sent her husband a text
about 10:00 and asked if they were at home now. He said that they
were still there waiting on the lab work and the results from the CT
scan.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">She spent almost seven hours in the Emergency Room. They said she
had a kidney stone and a UTI. I said did her urine culture came back
positive? I was told yes, but I have my doubts. They put her on an
anti-biotic anyway. I just hope that they put her on the right
anti-biotic, so that she will be feeling much better in a couple of
days.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Later that evening, after work, I went to their house to check on
my “little girl.” I stopped at the store and bought her a little
care pack that included a stuffed pink Easter bunny, a fun little
metal bunny with a bell and a heat wrap for the pain.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It wasn't much, but I just wanted her to know that I loved her,
that I was thinking of her. I also understand what it is like to be
in pain. It was somewhat difficult to hear <b><i>“No Mama”</i></b> when I
wanted to go take care of my one and only “little girl.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">But she is grown and has someone else that takes care of her now.
It is similar to we decide to let Jesus in our heat, start studying
His word and have a close prayer relationship with Him. Then we grow
closer in our walk with Him. And He is always there by our side to
take care of us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As a believer starts maturing in their daily walk with Him, the
things of the world don't seem as important. Our priorities change
and we become more humble and want to share the Gospel with others.
When we share with others it is important that we don't “get in the
way.” Just as I don't need to “get in the way” of Miranda's
husband taking care of her.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzlCCzz3iCFqI02AHOpV0N7y2mkPbcEKyTDWuBAQloyuQ2Jl1VWay_3SUNdm4kP8dbbSBvBgU_CkoFMBkH-n6a_gKQvcZ53tdHVZeeTKBcpkuOsH4_WI0_9VVUfiZkwn0Njjg-9q7TxH86/s1600/Philippians+3+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzlCCzz3iCFqI02AHOpV0N7y2mkPbcEKyTDWuBAQloyuQ2Jl1VWay_3SUNdm4kP8dbbSBvBgU_CkoFMBkH-n6a_gKQvcZ53tdHVZeeTKBcpkuOsH4_WI0_9VVUfiZkwn0Njjg-9q7TxH86/s1600/Philippians+3+12.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My daughter is maturing and things that used to matter to her don't matter anymore. But I am glad she has someone to take care of her and always be by her side: Me, Jesus and her husband! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>You
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">bbbennett65@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div style="orphans: 0;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>You
can follow me on Twitter:</b></span></span></div>
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<div align="CENTER" style="orphans: 0; widows: 4;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>You
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-90225538544005478192014-04-06T12:24:00.003-07:002014-04-06T12:24:26.151-07:00The Guessing Game<u><b> </b></u><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE3NQsqfRy2CYxx6wk8SGJW5TLFYTSpDml5VzDheDA2drmhWELrPlaAlfsXn5lO4SGnG2Cltv0ci2m9j7HhDCZAGPs9iq1c3yPQrRV3dghpt0quthk4TuXGoOIXoufQmNtlqQlQefIz2qZ/s1600/crAZY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE3NQsqfRy2CYxx6wk8SGJW5TLFYTSpDml5VzDheDA2drmhWELrPlaAlfsXn5lO4SGnG2Cltv0ci2m9j7HhDCZAGPs9iq1c3yPQrRV3dghpt0quthk4TuXGoOIXoufQmNtlqQlQefIz2qZ/s1600/crAZY.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wednesday was a crazy day. I went to work at my church for two
hours. I really enjoy working there. I am able to talk to and learn from my Pastor more. There is always someone from my church family
dropping by and I can chit chat with them. And the surroundings are...shhh....
peaceful and quiet...I really like that!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I left church and went for my yearly eye exam. I explained that I
was having some difficulty seeing smaller numbers. She changed my
bifocal prescription so that it would be stronger. I decided to keep
the same frames and I still had to pay a rather large sum.
Especially on my new lower income. I charged it. I should have
enough money saved up by the time the bill is due to pay it off. I
will also receive a discount the next time I shop on Amazon. Credit
cards are okay, I think, if you use them wisely.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When I left there I went to work at the Construction Company. There was a lot of paper shredding
that needed to be done so I worked on that for a while. I sat on the
floor and fed sheet after sheet until the shredder was full. Then I
bagged it up and took it outside.
</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">By the time I went home my bladder was very unhappy with me. She
let me know it in a very painful way. My bladder was hurting more
that it has in a long time. My stomach was swollen, my pelvic area
was painful, my back pain and sciatica had kicked it up a notch or
two. I began to play <i><b>the guessing game</b></i>...was it because I sat on the
floor? Could it be something I ate or drank? What about the
weather and all that pollen?? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I never win at <i><b>the guessing game.</b></i> I believe that Interstitial
Cystitis, Fibromyalgia (Fibro), etc., etc. are going to do what they
want to do, when they want to do it, no matter what I do. Of course I
also believe there are certain things that I do to try to keep peace
with my bladder and my Fibro. I watch my diet and exercise. I also
do the three P's: Play music, Pray and take Pain Pills. But not
necessarily in that order. But I do strongly believe that Prayer is
one of the most powerful things I can do as Christian. I also
think a distraction such as music helps me concentrate on something
else other than the pain. And pain pills help me have a semi-normal
life at times.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My bladder was telling me to stay home, but my heart longed for
more Christian fellowship. I ignored her and went to church. My
heart was blessed in more ways than one. Being with other Christians
was heartwarming. We divided up into small groups. My group was
talking about “Giving” in the church or tithing. One of my fellow
Christians pointed out that we are supposed to have Faith when we are
giving to God. He spoke about the Widow's offering. She gave
everything that she had. Those words really stood out in my head.
And I am thankful that he reminded me of this.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyazQaEPc7p8yJvi3Bgi-VsUKdqL5iZJlqMhP-I9gNaPQw5Fr4fDWtZXM2K6fpcka8URRLUBm25hcvta2iSj3EL5bJRW2Fn9aQrerJGK_S4s_fbGifoAoaJAiknVXeRhkmM0h_EHVd4dIc/s1600/giving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyazQaEPc7p8yJvi3Bgi-VsUKdqL5iZJlqMhP-I9gNaPQw5Fr4fDWtZXM2K6fpcka8URRLUBm25hcvta2iSj3EL5bJRW2Fn9aQrerJGK_S4s_fbGifoAoaJAiknVXeRhkmM0h_EHVd4dIc/s1600/giving.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">“<b>Jesus sat down opposite the place
where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their
money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large
amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper
coins, worth only a few cents.” Mark 12:41-42</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There was also a little girl at church. I had just meet her Sunday
when I sat and talked with her and some of her friends. She asked her
Grandfather if she could sit with me. She sat right beside me and
let me hug her like we had known each other all her life. She asked
me if I remembered her name and I did. Then I asked if she
remembered my name and she did. She made me forget the pain for a
while. She made my day by spending time with me...I love children. I
stayed until about 8:30. It was a day filled with waaaaay too much
sitting, doing and going for me, but also full of blessings. Since I didn't win <b><i>the guessing game</i></b> I won the blessing game!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-57510554860016394752014-03-30T18:30:00.000-07:002014-04-05T18:30:38.169-07:00I Am Toast<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRR7_mM-6oRqpFlgw5kUU1fWRjdK9qqvx2MFEKw1UbQ83SKjamLFSQq1Q8OlAmDEGs_FoNPYL-YHhUwZuW7Zk89TGNdsssXwfh-2lQjz7LrRTHI7KhZW1_EllLNdU7ra_mvz-nWd_kdHr0/s1600/toast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRR7_mM-6oRqpFlgw5kUU1fWRjdK9qqvx2MFEKw1UbQ83SKjamLFSQq1Q8OlAmDEGs_FoNPYL-YHhUwZuW7Zk89TGNdsssXwfh-2lQjz7LrRTHI7KhZW1_EllLNdU7ra_mvz-nWd_kdHr0/s1600/toast.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> This what I feel like by Friday!</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Toast</i></b>...I am <b><i>toast</i></b>. I could not wait to go home after work, put on my jammies, fire up my heating pads and go to sleep. I took something to help me sleep, but go figure, I couldn't fall asleep. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I tossed and turned and stretched trying to be comfortable enough to fall asleep, the pain was just too much for me to take. <i>The pain and the game of talking, laughing and pretending that I am not a miserable mess was just too much!! By Friday, after working all week, etc, etc....<b>I am toast!</b></i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When Alan came home I wanted to talk to him and spend a few minutes with him. I was getting ready to go back to bed and walked away. He said "Barbara," "Barbara." I came back to him almost in tears. I said "Why did you call me Barbara? You always call me "bb." I knew that I was at my breaking point. I decided to take a pain pill and go to bed. Do you ever feel that way??!! He didn't mean anything bad by it. I knew I was overly sensitive, so they best thing for me to do was rest.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My dear sweet husband went to pick up our supper, so we didn't have to literally eat <i><b>toast</b></i> for supper. I took a hot bath with Epsom salt before he came back home. I felt better my the time he came back.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I can really relate to her! </span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I found out that the Administrative Assistant at our church was starting another job, I walked up to the Pastor and said "I will help." "I can't do much, but I will do what I can." I musta been feelin' good that day, lol. So officially this week I started working at the church on Wednesdays. I really enjoyed my first day. The Holy Spirit has been leading me to help in this part of our church's ministry for a long time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week I worked at the church and then needed to go straight to my Construction Company job. Then I went back to church for Bible study that evening...I am beginning to smell something...it smells like<i><b> toast!</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next day after work, Alan and I meet Miranda at a restaurant to celebrate her <i><b>24th birthday</b></i>..<b><i>.Boy, that makes me feel old!</i></b> We all enjoyed ourselves very much. Even though I loved the time spent with my daughter immensely it contributed to my <i><b>toast</b></i> feeling even more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Each week I work I end up feeling like <i><b>toast</b></i>, but each week I also feel blessed to have my beautiful daughter, my caring husband and my church family. I have a lot of struggles, but I can still do what God needs<i><b> me </b></i>to do. He can use me through my struggles and make me stronger than I ever thought I could be.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><i>Well Informed Owl</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We were going to take a small trip to a Dog Show. Alan has been training a dog for a friend and wanted to show her at a nearby Bench Show. We wanted to eat at a particular, small restaurant on the way</span>. <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So we sort of had it planned out. Right??!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The only thing we needed was the exact address of the clubhouse so I could enter it into my phone to find directions. We called the contact number before we left the house. No return call. We called several times along the way. No return call. We were starting to get frustrated.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Alan knew the general vicinity so we headed that way with the dog in the back of my car in a large carrier. She is a large dog and she needed a bath. It was a mixture of coon hound dog odor and the scent of cedar shavings from her dog house...Thank you Lord for cedar shavings!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The closer we drew to the start time of the event, the more frustrating it was. Alan was complaining about the traffic, etc., but I knew that if we were late it was really poor planning on our part.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I mean who takes off on a journey and doesn't have the exact directions,maybe not enough money to do everything needed and is racing against the clock? Hmm, sounds very familiar in so many ways!! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">That sounds exactly like an Interstitial Cystitis (IC) journey. You don't know exactly where to go or what to do or if you will have enough money to do everything needed. It feels like you have to do or try as many different treatments, diets or pills (when you least feel like doing anything) or one day you will find yourself alone, miserable and broke...at least that is the way I feel!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The best way I know to avoid this is to learn and research as much as possible about different treatment plans from reliable sources. Use all your resources to shop for the lowest prices on medications. Ask your doctor for samples. Use online coupons whenever possible. Ask other patients were they find the best deals and what treatments have worked for them. <b><i>It is wise </i></b>to start planning for your future or retirement as soon as possible by paying off as many bills as possible now and set aside some money for when you retire or are not able to work anymore.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />So many plans, ideas and dreams change completely when you are on an IC journey, but it is not all bad. I feel like I am planning better for my eternal future since I have been sick. I am more concerned about pleasing my Heavenly Father and doing what He wants me to do. But I am not perfect in any way and I need His guidance every day!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We finally found our way to the Dog Show by the Grace of God. I did pray along the way that we would make it on time. There were so many twists and turns along the way I never would have figured it out on my own. We made it in plenty of time for the Show and were so relieved.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">She even won "Best of Show." The only way it could have went better was if we had planned and prepared better before we started on our journey.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sweet Lexi</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Lexi on the bench on her way to victory</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-89367231953009388782014-03-17T16:46:00.000-07:002014-03-17T16:46:36.504-07:00My Old Stomping Grounds<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last Sunday I had an amazing opportunity. I went with a group from our church to my old stomping grounds. Into the community where I grew from a baby to an adult...into the neighborhood where I was "born and raised."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I lived in a mill community. My Mom and Dad both worked in a mill close to our house. I used to walk to and from school until I was about eleven. I even remember milk being delivered in a glass bottle to our porch...boy, I'm old!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Down my street and across the highway there was an restaurant that served ice cream. They may have even served other things like food and drinks, but all I remember was the ice cream. I was always trying to save enough money to buy ice cream cone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My best friend and I used to have yard sales, talent shows (really??) all to raise money for ice cream or candy. Oh, yes there was a company drugstore that had a small grocery store in the back. It had a glass case filled with all sorts of candy like Tootsie Rolls, Bazooka Bubble Gum and Sixlets! Each piece was only a penny. Yes, only one penny!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I was older I started "hanging out" at the Post Office. Hey, don't judge me! It was were all the older kids with"street smarts" hung out. And I thought I fit in perfectly. And of course I did until my Mom would come to the end of our street and yell for me to come home. How embarrassing!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We went into the community that our church is in to do a short survey. To find out what the community thinks some of the needs are and what we as a church can do to help with those needs. We literally went from house to house and door to door. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you remember last Sunday was when daylight savings began. It was the worst day of the year when you lose ONE WHOLE hour! I was tired all day and I tried to take a nap more than once, but I couldn't fall asleep!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So exhausted little ole me went to walk the streets just like I was a normal, healthy human being. Our group of ladies went up and down about twelve, steep flights of stairs to ring the door bell or knock on every door we could. My group was kind enough slow down their pace so that I could keep up with them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I had been praying about this opportunity for my church for weeks. I was pretty sure that was all I would be capable of doing. Walking that much seemed liked it would be impossible for me to do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As it turned out I did it and I wasn't even sore the next day from walking or climbing steps. In fact I was fine! I was truly amazed and thankful. We were able to reach a few families who seemed to have some real interest in our church and others just had some general questions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many times there are outreach opportunities in my church that I think I will not be able to be a part of at all. Sometimes I am just so mentally and physically exhausted that I'm not sure how God can even use me. But as I grow in my walk with the Lord (pun intended) I hope that I will be blessed to be a part of more opportunities to serve Him. I'm glad I had the strength to get out of my comfort zone and show love for church, my heavenly Father and the community that means so much to me.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-84312062116450077582014-03-09T18:18:00.001-07:002014-03-09T18:18:43.109-07:00Set It Free<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I was leaving church last Sunday I walked out to the parking lot and heard "You backed into me!" "No you backed into me! As they were backing out of the parking lot a truck hit a car or...a car hit a truck.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first thing I did was ask if anyone was hurt. They all said no. The tension of the discussion had me a little flustered, but I am more anxious now that I have Interstitial Cystitis and so many other medical problems. I was calm enough to suggest that we call the Police and let them decide as a unbiased third party. The lady driving the car had her cell phone out and dialed 911.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The driver of the car and I started talking. Her husband and the other gentleman were chit chatting as well. It didn't take the Policeman long to arrive at the scene. He took their credentials and began to prepare the report. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZi58ZKyrboC5Dtxt55AgrqCgw5kj15XrLJ3o4fib92PoIzQMT4ZntuyZiLZfQa6UwPrhdWJbZOoT8H4sCHKyR6DJWDz_LvnoGge8MDLLhlBCIvBWnozNudOv4mR9x9OSX8PuqrZxDjN9e/s1600/policeman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZi58ZKyrboC5Dtxt55AgrqCgw5kj15XrLJ3o4fib92PoIzQMT4ZntuyZiLZfQa6UwPrhdWJbZOoT8H4sCHKyR6DJWDz_LvnoGge8MDLLhlBCIvBWnozNudOv4mR9x9OSX8PuqrZxDjN9e/s1600/policeman.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I continued jabbering the whole time and enjoyed getting to know her better, but I was starting to feel tired. However I thought it was important to provide them with moral support regardless of how I felt.</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The police report stated that they were both at fault and each needed to contact their insurance carrier and no one was charged. We all said our good byes and went our separate ways.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This Sunday I saw her at church. We talked about the fender bender. She stated the there was no need in being upset about it. She said it would not have helped anyone for them to be agitated about the situation. In other words she didn't let it bother her. She decided to not have any bitter feelings about the whole situation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It made me think about this song "Forgiveness" by Matthew West. Most of the time we are so busy trying to "be right" about something we don't care about who we hurt in the process. It takes courage to forgive and sometimes it is not easy but it is important. It is important for us because it sets us free. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Staying mad at someone even when they treat you wrong can bring on much unneeded stress and sometimes medical problems in our lives.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So the next time you are mad at someone and need to forgive them follow that whisper inside your head that is saying "<b><i>set it free</i></b>" do yourself a favor and let it go. Ask God to help you to do what seems impossible...<b><i>set it free</i></b>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-81004916664630147012014-03-02T15:49:00.000-08:002014-03-08T09:38:39.730-08:00That Old Familiar Feeling<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Whew, what a week. Monday I went back to work for the first time since being out with the flu all last week. To say I was tired at 5:00 would be a major understatement. When I came home from work I rested in the bed about an hour I felt a little better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Tuesday was my six week evaluation at physical therapy. My therapist asked me some questions, checked the strength in my legs and basically said she doesn't think that the physical therapy has been helping me. I smiled to cover up my true feelings and said "You are not giving up on me are you?" But I already knew the answer. We did agree to try a few more weeks to see if it would help. She left the room to try to work out a schedule for me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b><i>That old familiar feeling </i></b>of disappointment of having hope in a new treatment and knowing that is it not going to work came over me and displayed itself by the drops falling from my eyes. It takes a lot to make me cry now days. I take so many medications to control the tears, but I truly felt discouraged! The schedule she came back with would not work with my work schedule at all! I was so overwhelmed by the whole situation I decided to take a step back and regroup my thoughts about the whole subject and not schedule any appointments...here I am again with another medical professional essentially saying I'm not sure what to do to help you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I had such high hopes that physical therapy was going to be the "magic" to relieve my sciatica. The massages felt great even if it was only temporary. Now I'm not sure what to do...I'm just going to put up the walls around me and feel sorry for myself...that is what I did, but then I decided I must keep moving forward.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Wednesday I was so tired physically that I didn't want to go to church. However I knew mentally and spiritually it would be the best idea for me. We even made plans to go visit a young couple in our church that just had a baby...ahh, something to look forward to for the next day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My preacher, his wife, another gentleman from our church and I went to see the baby. He is only 4 weeks old, but he already has so much character. With each smile and grunt I could see tears welling up in the eyes of my preacher's wife. I felt like I knew why...children are a gift from God. I think either one of us would have taken that young fella home with us. I look forward to hopefully having grandchildren one day, but for now I will enjoy the personality of this lil one. Just being around the newborn and his family blessed my heart and I didn't dwell on the frustrations of my life.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Me and a bundle of joy!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Was I exhausted before we went? Yep! Was I more exhausted after we went? Of course! Did I have to take more pain medication that day? Sure did! Was it worth it? Absolutely!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm trying not to dwell on the negative in my life I'm praying for focus and guidance. I do not know what I need to do next. However; I will continue to research new treatment plans and I will ask God for His direction in my life..."Help me find my way. Bring me back to You."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Brian Johnson "You're All I Want"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This is a great worship song that I heard for the first time today...it was just what I needed to hear. I hope you will check it out for yourself.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-43757044627216269012014-02-25T14:57:00.001-08:002014-02-25T14:58:52.391-08:00The Voices Inside My Head<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week I have had plenty of sleep and rest. I haven't had any stress at all. I have been relaxing and just taking it easy all week. I'm not on vacation! I haven't quit my job...I have had the flu.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a difficult way to get some much needed rest, but I will take it any way I can get it. Sunday evening I started feeling achy allover and my throat started hurting. I thought I was fighting off a cold. However Monday morning I woke up with a temperature of 101.4 and I was achy and had a bad cough that made my throat and chest hurt.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since I had a fever I decided to look on <a href="http://webmd.com/">Webmd.com</a> to check out the symptoms of the flu. I had most of the symptoms and called my doctor and left a message. I was trying to take a nap when they called me back and said the doctor wanted to see me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Really?? I did not feel like going to the doctor. But just in case it was the flu I did want to get some Tamiflu. So I got dressed and went to the doctor's office. Hopefully I would not see anyone that I knew. When I first walked in and signed in the lady in front of me said "Hey Barbara, how are you?" Through my hoarse, weak voice I mustered the words "Not too good now. I think I have the flu." In spite of my flu fog I remembered to give her one of my handy dandy handouts about IC and told her I was trying to raise awareness about my bladder disease.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I sat as far away from everyone as I could. They promptly called me back. The doctor said based on my symptoms it sounded like the flu. He gave me a prescription for some cough medicine and Tamiflu. He also refilled all my other needed prescriptions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It has been a long week but I am thankful that I am feeling better now. I told my Mama that having the flu is just like a Fibromyalgia flare. I have been saying that for months but until now I had never had the flu. So I know for sure that it is very similar. When I have a Fibro flare I feel achy and tired all over. All I want to do is rest. I've had a lot of time to think about it and I came up with a the top reasons I would rather have the flu than Fibro:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. I went to the doctor and told him my symptoms and he gave me a prescription that will make me well sooner.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. I felt sick, I was sick and I was able to rest. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. The doctor gave me a piece of paper that said it was ok to be sick and that I could stay out of work.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. People call and check on you when you have the flu.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Next year I will be able to take a shot to avoid being sick...ahh, if it were only so simple for Fibro!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fibromyalgia takes over your whole body and controls the things you do in life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now I know what that voice is inside my head:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24vkJHCf6mkjbOdalm2hGkN772fAgLxLdbrgAhv9tMAKY2LyJMT9t6Rhw9fwlAcRsTFs63e5KXpUMrXsMg3llgfah8AEsvqwL1hivX1_RNqOqdDKX2nVMIZFp3znpW2pJu0aoYV_DDFQi/s1600/1622697_761059943905184_537250391_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24vkJHCf6mkjbOdalm2hGkN772fAgLxLdbrgAhv9tMAKY2LyJMT9t6Rhw9fwlAcRsTFs63e5KXpUMrXsMg3llgfah8AEsvqwL1hivX1_RNqOqdDKX2nVMIZFp3znpW2pJu0aoYV_DDFQi/s1600/1622697_761059943905184_537250391_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is also another voice inside my head. It says I know that suffering can produce good things. Suffering can make you persist in difficult times. Our persistence makes us who we are. We are made stronger in our hardships and we learn to have hope. And hope is always a good thing. I hope that when I am having a bad day, resting in bed, completely exhausted and in pain that I remember the words of this verse. What are your thoughts??!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-3910734335105200882014-02-18T09:15:00.001-08:002014-02-18T09:15:58.403-08:00Scare-dee Cat<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5IiSCoiRcepL-DyBGWJhOvCjUL1DDv8FtrDtz8e2lJBgsGEf_TdOu6DYi6ZdS56JbCmSk6Iu4UaCNtm-banySFePNlWAMYDqPbBfnObVN__7K-4KYzSnmYVSkczaY0-SxLkHjHU5KjWRe/s1600/Love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5IiSCoiRcepL-DyBGWJhOvCjUL1DDv8FtrDtz8e2lJBgsGEf_TdOu6DYi6ZdS56JbCmSk6Iu4UaCNtm-banySFePNlWAMYDqPbBfnObVN__7K-4KYzSnmYVSkczaY0-SxLkHjHU5KjWRe/s1600/Love.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This year I told Alan that I wanted to celebrate Valentine's day on Saturday instead of Friday. That way I would hopefully have more time to rest on Saturday before we went anywhere.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since my hours have been cut at work I decided to give Alan a somewhat crafty gift that did not cost much money. I gave him some of his favorite candy,some hand warmers for when he goes hunting,a card and included two coupons. One for a back rub and one for a foot rub...the only catch is that I have to be having a good day for him to redeem them. He thought it was a cute idea.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVvIn5i_ImnBt-JDjKFtJErK2gEGPm4E0LWp4lSQqqZ16ykTBej2Cc3w9tTLmAkF-BGOOlXWmHW1zi6SW8dELyU7xIarB2pCMZ89bdOZ0eZ1r1MDC0xEraybvbrki0sNEzl7sJ9fKcvYf/s1600/valantines+day+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVvIn5i_ImnBt-JDjKFtJErK2gEGPm4E0LWp4lSQqqZ16ykTBej2Cc3w9tTLmAkF-BGOOlXWmHW1zi6SW8dELyU7xIarB2pCMZ89bdOZ0eZ1r1MDC0xEraybvbrki0sNEzl7sJ9fKcvYf/s1600/valantines+day+gift.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Alan's gift minus the angel</span>.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alan wanted us to try a new seafood restaurant. It was about an hour and a half away from our home but I was feeling good so we went for it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a seafood buffet. I do not like buffets...I don't like standing in line waiting to try to get something to eat. I decided to order from the menu. I ordered grilled salmon and shrimp. I didn't really like the salmon. So I ate my shrimp and baked potato and I was ready to go. But Alan had ordered the buffet so he was in line for more food when I finished eating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Before we left I thought I should use the restroom. There was also a line for that! I decided that I didn't want to know why the one lady stayed in there so long. I thought if I need to go we can stop on the way. I could not wait to go home! However Alan wanted to ride closer to the dam that we rode over on the way. I was game. It sounded like a fun adventure to me...and it was!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First we went to the left side and I took some pictures of the lights coming off of the dam. Then we went to the right side and there was a huge deck across part of the water and picnic tables. I was so excited as we walked to the deck. Never mind that it was very cold and windy outside. I wanted to see as much as I could and take some more pictures.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0vtb_OEMeZ281HVwg3INpVt-2zfN47vXtFyEVEAZezg1EAb26GtCeP_SFwwSi45aXL_TuHKfJajNcEy0OaHrSdlG4QiG2tKaJqZLkL0OUc1eHnRfn04l6f52dAPjidli1ks617_Sm7Tc/s1600/strom+thurmon+dam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0vtb_OEMeZ281HVwg3INpVt-2zfN47vXtFyEVEAZezg1EAb26GtCeP_SFwwSi45aXL_TuHKfJajNcEy0OaHrSdlG4QiG2tKaJqZLkL0OUc1eHnRfn04l6f52dAPjidli1ks617_Sm7Tc/s1600/strom+thurmon+dam.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The lights over Strom Thurmond Dam</span></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdERNG3KxyBgL9VghsmOVjhH4EGBxCB8ZUULMkyLEosA_bMiVKoP6c8JJIKnr4bLJIuGQv4HOsqWmovBzHMRwBeW68Ghm4gIQazTDy52iw1IEpfA3cp4TXS3Q2g5nteIkKox44h8Rw13W/s1600/dam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdERNG3KxyBgL9VghsmOVjhH4EGBxCB8ZUULMkyLEosA_bMiVKoP6c8JJIKnr4bLJIuGQv4HOsqWmovBzHMRwBeW68Ghm4gIQazTDy52iw1IEpfA3cp4TXS3Q2g5nteIkKox44h8Rw13W/s1600/dam.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The deck across the raging water</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alan asked "Are you scared?" "If you fall into that water there is no coming back." I said "No." For once in my life I wasn't the scare-dee cat!!! I was enjoying being out there just the two of us on a new undertaking.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACp-Gm798OFPSzvMAGYUlMrdHHrXj-Dn80X2L9R76weX04s5Gw2PxaJz3ecPDz0PnUrsL20XWwSVBKryXx6HLzkiq4TqCx9vLx6CQDMnPO_XC4tPsJx8kvZOlwJiBmSExa8Usl67h79JR/s1600/scared-orange-cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACp-Gm798OFPSzvMAGYUlMrdHHrXj-Dn80X2L9R76weX04s5Gw2PxaJz3ecPDz0PnUrsL20XWwSVBKryXx6HLzkiq4TqCx9vLx6CQDMnPO_XC4tPsJx8kvZOlwJiBmSExa8Usl67h79JR/s1600/scared-orange-cat.jpg" height="320" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Scar-dee Cat</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It reminded me of our trip to The Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon in 2011. We took off just the two of us on an adventure that we will never forget. We always talk about going back just because we had so much fun.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Pm9SRTD3tplwYDP8L_HvKS8vNpKGhMRmcWOZjvSZIiPTtyIPgewaTvY2a7mXrGKR_79xnFLr7PTFVQ-o1fhgImWzotA3l12obTW7NELauH6seYvsCtVpMowLKldV_WKbRgYOQ6ECycA9/s1600/Las+Vegas+2011+039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Pm9SRTD3tplwYDP8L_HvKS8vNpKGhMRmcWOZjvSZIiPTtyIPgewaTvY2a7mXrGKR_79xnFLr7PTFVQ-o1fhgImWzotA3l12obTW7NELauH6seYvsCtVpMowLKldV_WKbRgYOQ6ECycA9/s1600/Las+Vegas+2011+039.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Barbara and Alan Hoover Dam 2011</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJ2pF6eZ9bR8ZG8bnC_CfiJEhe6vA-95wUUv4H4QEX4D4k-gjKOZ5Dhnl3nUpuKRBLRDEXXoTOS0l1ob_vdNgFugeVRvdyIKx1TV8yMnAGW0bweAqRozN8_edxdxyyK_xJmB_rboHFXWu/s1600/Las+Vegas+2011+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJ2pF6eZ9bR8ZG8bnC_CfiJEhe6vA-95wUUv4H4QEX4D4k-gjKOZ5Dhnl3nUpuKRBLRDEXXoTOS0l1ob_vdNgFugeVRvdyIKx1TV8yMnAGW0bweAqRozN8_edxdxyyK_xJmB_rboHFXWu/s1600/Las+Vegas+2011+025.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Grand Canyon 2011</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The restaurant certainly was not my favorite but spending time with Alan on an adventure afterwards was the most fun I have had in a long time!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do you have any suggestions on some adventures to try? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let me know your thoughts or comments below.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">They decided to cut my hours at The Construction Company because business is slow right now. I was working about 30-34 hours per week. They want me to only work 20 hours per week now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I felt relieved because I have been totally exhausted every day. I know that working is really taking a toll on my body. But I also feel like it keeps my mind off of the pain. I hope that cutting my hours will be the relief that my body needs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">After I thought about it I had the "ole kick in the stomach feeling." I started thinking about having to tell my husband. I dreaded telling him because I feel like I am letting him down...again! And of course there is the financial aspect of bringing in a considerable lesser amount of money each month. And last but not least there is the reality that I may not be able to work full-time any where right now....jobs are scarce to say the least and my "ole bod" is failing me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm frustrated that I don't have a full-time job now. It is not what I wanted to happen but maybe it was time for me to lose a little more control of my life...just<b><i> Let It Go!</i></b> I received a little encouragement from watching this episode of 20/20: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://abcnews.go.com/2020/video/life-teenage-primordial-dwarf-twin-22421644">http://abcnews.go.com/2020/video/life-teenage-primordial-dwarf-twin-22421644</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is about a fourteen year old girl who is a dwarf She has such positive energy. However it was what her Mom said that really stood out to me. She said "Life is what it is. You can chose to deal with it in a good way or...</span>" <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">She said they focused on what the teenager <b>could</b> do instead of focusing on what she couldn't do. The video is only about 6 minutes long. I hope you will take the time to watch it. You just might receive a blessing too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is hard to keep this mindset when all the things that you knew to be "normal" are suddenly taken away from you. I started to not watch the show because the title is </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"My Strange Affliction." I thought they might be "making light" of people who are suffering from different illnesses like Interstitial Cystitis (IC) for example. Maybe start the show with everyone sitting on a toilet...oh, never mind that was a different show...<a href="http://www.thedoctorstv.com/main/show_synopsis/1493?section=synopsis">http://www.thedoctorstv.com/main/show_synopsis/1493?section=synopsis</a><a href="http://www.thedoctorstv.com/main/show_synopsis/1493?section=synopsis">http://www.thedoctorstv.com/main/show_synopsis/1493?section=synopsis</a> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Instead they shared the stories of people who are struggling with different disorders but have chosen to focus on what they <b>can</b> still do and the positive things in their life. This is so much easier said than done when you are living with suffering day after day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I chose to say this prayer so that I can also try to focus on the positive things in my life and <b><i>Let It Go </i></b>I hope you will too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> The song below is about letting go of control, ignoring the fear and relying on God for everything we need. "Let It Go" Tenth Avenue North. This is the live version of this song. </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-30003764952903849702014-02-04T17:45:00.000-08:002014-02-04T17:45:31.895-08:00Snow Wave<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Each time my co-worker even mentioned the word "snow" I did my little snow dance...um, well it is more like a wave than a dance</span>...<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">okay, so I just really sat at my desk and lifted my hands in the air.</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I told her not to get me all excited about snow if it was not going to happen!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am like a kid when I hear about snow. Where I live if we have one "good snow" a year then I am very happy. It has been a couple of years since we had a good, fluffy snow that stayed on the ground so we were due.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The day it was supposed to snow I was hoping to go home early from work. You know like a "snow day" at school when you are let out early or better yet the WHOLE day is a snow day! Our forecast said that the snow would start at 12:00 p.m. My co-worker and I kept waiting and looking out the window like two youngsters who had nothing to do but wait for the snow and then go play in it. It would snow a little then stop...nothing to get excited about...yet!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">About 4:00 p.m. that afternoon my little <b><i>snow wave</i></b> started paying off. I stayed at work until 5:00 p.m. then I hurried home to enjoy the white stuff. It was a beautiful, powdery snow. The kind that makes a great snowman.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All I wanted to do was watch the snow falling and see God's blanket of whiteness fill the outdoors. I was prepared for the snow storm. I had bread <b>and</b> milk. My husband had a fire going in our buck stove. When I got home all I had to do was sit back and appreciate the beauty of the flakes falling and rest by the fire...ahhhhh!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next morning I was able to sleep late and go outside for a walk just as the sun started shining. It was cold but I bundled up really well and headed out for my walk. I was prepared so well that I didn't even get cold...or maybe that was just a little bit of the "kid in me" coming out saying "I'm not cold!" Whatever it was I enjoyed my walk and appreciated the beautiful splendor of this winter wonderland.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJDOOg4EyZCEU0tUgGWSvaI6cbk7L62BUc3tiWdbXBS3Tz9zrLwEubRCORe1WmbnQ82dpsL0jQ2jdYm270grF-xhA5rVXruRglr-JftZO-v78EYwXmUge3JUdB0RZ9UKrMuyRGwnpHeZ2X/s1600/snowman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJDOOg4EyZCEU0tUgGWSvaI6cbk7L62BUc3tiWdbXBS3Tz9zrLwEubRCORe1WmbnQ82dpsL0jQ2jdYm270grF-xhA5rVXruRglr-JftZO-v78EYwXmUge3JUdB0RZ9UKrMuyRGwnpHeZ2X/s1600/snowman.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yes he is small but he has a big heart!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was prepared for the snow storm they called Leon, but what about the parents of baby Grace? She was born in the backseat of her parent's car. They were on their way to the hospital to give birth, but the weather had them stuck in traffic near Atlanta. Maybe they had been to Lamaze classes. Maybe since it was not their first child they were pros at birthing babies...or maybe they just remained calm and did the best they could with what they had.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.weather.com/news/baby-grace-doing-great-after-mom-gives-birth-car-atlantas-gridlocked-i-285-20140129">http://www.weather.com/news/baby-grace-doing-great-after-mom-gives-birth-car-atlantas-gridlocked-i-285-20140129 </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How could they have ever known what they were about to experience? How do any of us prepare for the things that happen to us in life?? Well from my own experience I think the best way to "prepare" for the storms in our life is to have faith. I thought my faith was strong... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, when Interstitial Cystitis (IC) came into my life, it changed my life forever. If I didn't have faith at all I'm not sure how my life would be now. Sometimes there are things that happen in our life that rock us to our core. IC has been one of those changes in my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sometimes God calls us to rely on our faith to guide us. I'm talking about walking on the water, mind blowing faith. Faith that calls us out of the boat and into the water. Faith that if we follow will take us out of our comfort zone and into God's will. And even when we stumble and doubt Jesus, He is there to reach out his hand to save us!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVm-MNaHVEf62LNY0XsRKsYPFYRdjaTWWtXvBWlajgzbED8iHtIUvO_5olBz52IDG4z8Ks9EFQic25v3ePq9y_UsW2D-sxznhd-vJi06mVAYfFjdjffLUjuw5W487avVJDb9ZFfTeRnn8/s1600/matthew-143031_1687_1024x768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVm-MNaHVEf62LNY0XsRKsYPFYRdjaTWWtXvBWlajgzbED8iHtIUvO_5olBz52IDG4z8Ks9EFQic25v3ePq9y_UsW2D-sxznhd-vJi06mVAYfFjdjffLUjuw5W487avVJDb9ZFfTeRnn8/s1600/matthew-143031_1687_1024x768.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is impossible to know everything that might happen to us in our lives but being prepared can make the rough ride a little less bumpy. Keeping our faith strong by praying, studying and encouraging others is a good way to give your soul peace and rest.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />Now I know how to make it snow around here. All I have to do is my little <b><i>snow wave </i></b>over and over. Then I just have to make sure I have all the bread and milk I need for the snow storm. I think the best way to be prepared for the storms and trials in our life is to have faith that you can trust God no matter what and remain calm and do the best you can with what you have!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope you will share your thoughts below.</span></div>
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<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/1m_sWJQm2fs/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/1m_sWJQm2fs&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/1m_sWJQm2fs&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="watch-title long-title yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" id="eow-title" title="Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) - Hillsong United - Lyrics - Zion 2013">Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/artist/hillsong-kids?feature=watch_video_title" id="watch-headline-show-title">Hillsong United</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>For
more information on Interstitial Cystitis </b></span></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="orphans: 0; widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>please
visit the ICA's Website</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.ichelp.org/">http://www.ichelp.org/</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For
more information on Fibromyalgia </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>please
visit the Fibromyalgia Network's Website</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.fmnetnews.com/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>http://www.fmnetnews.com/ </b></span></a></div>
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</a>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For
more information on Physical Therapy</b></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>please
visit Proaxis' website:</b></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<a href="http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/">http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/</a></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>You
can email me:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">bbbennett65@gmail.com</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For
more information on Physical Therapy</b></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>please
visit Proaxis' website:</b></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<a href="http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/"><b>http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/</b></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="orphans: 0; widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>For
more information on Interstitial Cystitis </b></span></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="orphans: 0; widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>please
visit the ICA's Website</b></span></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<a href="http://www.ichelp.org/"><b>http://www.ichelp.org/</b></a></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For
more information on Fibromyalgia </b></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>please
visit the Fibromyalgia Network's Website</b></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="widows: 4;">
<a href="http://www.fmnetnews.com/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>http://www.fmnetnews.com/ </b></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>You
can email me:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">bbbennett65@gmail.com</span></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-62214861682465784922014-01-26T17:38:00.002-08:002014-01-26T17:38:51.624-08:00Keep Pushin'<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaaNHaAuqiJaqrAFKjSgGAV79ASONAwUg0l-RHAoMwGe1MhRexpvnWCycXYK1iGqB4jZPehDyG_11aScT5ABziCQ6jpLMr66lSZkriZSROzrQbWj1yubZXIuoY9KoDUAclimwVebtMKVe/s1600/James+1+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaaNHaAuqiJaqrAFKjSgGAV79ASONAwUg0l-RHAoMwGe1MhRexpvnWCycXYK1iGqB4jZPehDyG_11aScT5ABziCQ6jpLMr66lSZkriZSROzrQbWj1yubZXIuoY9KoDUAclimwVebtMKVe/s1600/James+1+12.jpg" height="392" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What is that thing??!!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As part of my new physical therapy plan I will see two different therapists. I can see pros and cons with this approach but it is worth a try. The pros are that I receive the medical expertise of two very different people. If one of them is out or off work I can still see the other one and she will know my history. The con for me is that if I am really benefiting from the treatment I am receiving from one and maybe not as much from the other then it could be a problem. But there is no use in worrying about that now. I just need to <b><i>Keep</i></b> <i><b>Pushin'</b><b> </b></i>on.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQV6agZES07FDMZoUn6SS_0ccWy8i9I7peZMdA9R-s4Wnz_zMRno_0KuCOnMYavTTTSy7R5vC__zu8L56fuD1X0R8TjQZ2d9NPBVLMxWdMP29itj_EzmFd79ygUUrEfWIfsHQrBSC_bbRM/s1600/dorothy-of-oz-film-c06d3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQV6agZES07FDMZoUn6SS_0ccWy8i9I7peZMdA9R-s4Wnz_zMRno_0KuCOnMYavTTTSy7R5vC__zu8L56fuD1X0R8TjQZ2d9NPBVLMxWdMP29itj_EzmFd79ygUUrEfWIfsHQrBSC_bbRM/s1600/dorothy-of-oz-film-c06d3.jpg" height="262" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dorothy and Toto from the Wizard of Oz</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This week I met my other therapist. She is a Physical Therapist and a Massage Therapist...I was thinking oh yeah, this is gonna be great! As she began talking about her background she mentioned that she lived in Kansas, but she didn't sound anything like Dorothy (see picture to the left). I said "I know you are not from Kansas!" She had an accent that I did not recognize. She said she is from Puerto Rico...not even close to Kansas!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Since my MRI did not show any bulging or ruptured disks to explain my chronic sciatica my doctor is not sure what my next step should be other than to keep taking pain killers. Now I so clearly understand why the second Urologist I went to see said "Do most IC patients take pain medication? Yes, but that's okay." I didn't understand it when he said it. In fact it upset and frustrated me but now it makes sense.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My therapist gave me what I would call a deep tissue massage. Focusing on treating my chronic pain that starts in my buttocks and goes all the way down my leg. It felt GREAT while she was doing it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I told her about the beginning of my Interstitial Cystitis (IC) journey and how I now have other related conditions such as Fibromyalgia and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. She wasn't familiar with IC but she said she would research it. I gave her my handy dandy handout that has some information about IC on it and the ICA's website and of course my blog address. She then asked me if it was okay if she prayed. Are you kidding??? It is more than okay...it made my day!!! I told her that I really appreciated her praying and I hugged her. I said it made me feel better because I am a Christian. She said "I am too." I thought well isn't that just like God to put me in the hands of another Christian therapist??!!...I was feeling so blessed!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">By Tuesday my back, bladder and sciatica pain had shifted into overdrive. On Wednesday I was convinced I was in an IC flare. However I started feeling better on Thursday just in time for my next pt appointment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As promised my therapist had done some research on IC and she said "After reading about it, I have to admire you for continuing to <b><i>keep pushin'</i></b> on." I told her that it was not easy at all. Some days I just want to stay in bed. But it's just not like me to give up that easily. I have to keep trying new treatments, researching and learning as much as I can to help myself...I have to <i><b>Keep Pushin'.</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><i><b> </b></i><i><b> </b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">That is what we all have to do. We have to make it through various trials of life. In the mist of these trials it may seem that they will never end. And we sometimes lose hope. But there is an end to all of this far more wonderful than we can imagine in our present circumstances.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">You might call these guys old but I think they still have it...This is different from my usual videos but this song popped into my head while I was writing this post. When I was a teenager REO was my favorite group. I think this song has a good message. We all have to <b><i>Keep </i><i>Pushin!</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Let me know your thoughts or comments below. And feel free to pass this post along.<b><i> </i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For
more information on Physical Therapy</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>please
visit Proaxis' website:</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/">http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>For
more information on Interstitial Cystitis </b></span></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="orphans: 0; widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>please
visit the ICA's Website</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.ichelp.org/">http://www.ichelp.org/</a></div>
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more information on Fibromyalgia </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>please
visit the Fibromyalgia Network's Website</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.fmnetnews.com/">http://www.fmnetnews.com/</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-84601795907923852012014-01-19T14:36:00.000-08:002014-01-19T14:36:09.323-08:00Treasure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62e3LaZkn5yyQilorSXpNF12v48pgR38gDF-xAHuBqONA6K49ldRbnLa68j05en1x6eIk7vMe3zGhgnx6daMzD3vi7erOYfo4JMoHW2RpcHlLKBImh_GM6-cfiK0PPNirtIRq8ZAnMoX9/s1600/Treasure-chest-with-heart-iStock_000008956721XSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62e3LaZkn5yyQilorSXpNF12v48pgR38gDF-xAHuBqONA6K49ldRbnLa68j05en1x6eIk7vMe3zGhgnx6daMzD3vi7erOYfo4JMoHW2RpcHlLKBImh_GM6-cfiK0PPNirtIRq8ZAnMoX9/s1600/Treasure-chest-with-heart-iStock_000008956721XSmall.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After I talked with a friend that has Fibromyalgia (Fibro) and is going through some of the same issues that I am, I decided that I wanted to start going back to physical therapy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She said that she was going to a place in my hometown and that it was helping her. I told my family doctor of my desire to go back to pt and he got the ball rolling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My first visit was this week. Before I went I called and asked to talk to one of the therapists. I was quizzing her about what she knew and what techniques she uses. I have been around this block before and I learned a few things, so I wanted to make sure it would be worth <b>my</b> time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After agreeing to meet with a therapist I made an appointment that was around lunchtime so I could go on my lunch break. The lady that checked me in was very friendly and very informative. She made me feel comfortable. She walked with me to the second floor and showed me exactly where to check in and where to go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then my therapist came into the room. The first thing she did was ask me if it was okay for an intern to come into the room with her. Some people don't like having another person in the room but I see it as an opportunity to help educate another person about Interstitial Cystitis (IC), Fibro, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, Vulvodynia, Sciatia, etc,etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The therapist basically had me do some leg lifts against her applying pressure so she could see how strong or weak certain muscles are in my leg. She also started me back on a core stabilization exercise that my former therapist had also taught me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are like me and you have IC you may be afraid to try anything new or out of your normal routine in fear of a flare. She wanted me to do 10 reps, but I only did a few and said that I would have to build up to more. Shhh...IC is all about keeping the bladder calm. We must not do anything to upset the bladder</span>!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Physical therapy is a commitment. You have to be willing to give up some time, energy and there is always homework. It is just like going to the doctor. If you go and don't do what they recommend</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">then you may not see the full benefits.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you think you need to go to Physical Therapy then I suggest the following:</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Commit</b> yourself to the time it takes to make your body feel better. This may be a lengthy time commitment, but a healthier body is worth it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Call</b> the therapist and ask questions BEFORE you go. For me it is always the fear of the unknown that makes me more nervous. Once I understand what is going to happen the calmer I am going to be.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Know</b> Your body's limits. If the request is to do ten reps then start out with three for a few days. If your body tolerates it work your way up to ten reps. You won't be punished if you do less, but your body will punish you if you do too much!!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Listen</b> to all of the advice a therapist gives you, do your own research and decide what is best for you (and your bladder).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you don't make a connection with the therapist after a couple of visits <b>request</b> to see a different one. It is your body, time and money, so make the best of it! I think these suggestions could apply to anyone that goes to a therapist,doctor or starts an exercise program of any type.</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I feel that therapy is a total body commitment. To make the most of your investment know what is best for you and make sure the care you are receiving is quality care.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It reminds me of what we studied at Bible Study this week. We were studying Mark 12:28-34. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"To give your all to God" as my Pastor put it. Let's just think about the heart. The heart controls our emotions, desires and affections. If we want to know what are affections are then we need to look at what occupies our time and what motivates us to do what we do. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What are heart longs for is what we <b><i>treasure</i></b> the most. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matt. 6:21<i> “For where your treasure is, there your heart will also be.”</i> How do we get to the point where Jesus is our greatest <b><i>treasure</i></b>? I think we can do this by reading His word and praying to Him that He would be valued as the greatest <b><i>treasure</i></b> in our heart and...spend time with Him. Set aside some time each day to be with Him only and only Him. Use this time to praise Him, pray to Him and read and meditate on His word.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Can you imagine how your life would change if Jesus was your greatest <b>treasure</b>? You think about that and let me know your thoughts below. I hope you will take the time to listen to this beautiful song about God's love.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For more information on Physical Therapy</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>please visit Proaxis' website:</b></span></div>
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<b><a href="http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/">http://proaxispelvicpt.wordpress.com/</a></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>For
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<div align="CENTER" style="page-break-inside: avoid; widows: 4;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>please visit the ICA's website</b></span></span></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.ichelp.org/">http://www.ichelp.org/</a></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">For more information on Fibromyalgia </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">please visit the Fibromyalgia Network's website</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.fmnetnews.com/">http://www.fmnetnews.com/ </a></span></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-57088829570066035152014-01-12T18:41:00.002-08:002014-01-12T18:41:53.331-08:00Purr-fect Peace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Ok, let me make sure I understand this correctly. You want me to lie down on a tiny little bed and then they will slide me into this giant magnet for about 30 minutes??!! All of this AND I have to lie perfectly still?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">But I am claustrophobic AND I am more anxious NOW that I have Interstitial Cystitis (IC), Fibromyalgia, IBS, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Vulvodynia, etc. etc.!! But I knew a MRI would be the next suggestion.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Since I have had sciatica<a href="http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/tc/sciatica-topic-overview"> http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/tc/sciatica-topic-overview </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">for over 8 months now I went to my "regular" family doctor. At first he ordered an EMG or Electromyogram. This simple test given by a Neurologist measures the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during
contraction. After the EMG was over I asked the Neurologist what he thought. He said something similar to "It confirms that you have sciatica."</span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hmmm, I already knew that, but I guess that was the first step when choosing to go the "Western Medical" route.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">When the pain first started I was going to Physical Therapy. I told my therapist that I have chronic pain and numbness that starts in my bottom and goes all the way down the back of my left leg and into my foot. The constant pain is usually on the 5-6.5 scale. When it is really bad it is 7-8. This is not an unbearable pain, but it makes it hard to sit or stand for more than 10 minutes without pain. And as I have mentioned in other posts, if the seat is hard, forget about it!!! I just can't deal with the pain.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">At the end of my treatments my therapist was mainly focusing on my Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, sciatica and </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">pudendal nerve pain. She did connective tissue mobilization, stressed the need for and showed me exercises for core stabilization and taught me stretches to do at home. We even tried a few rounds of "dry needling" just for fun...just kidding it was NOT fun, but I was desperate!! It didn't help me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The thought of the MRI made me very anxious. I asked the group at my Bible Study to pray for me. After Bible Study a friend came up to me and said "I will be praying for you." She went on to say that she had a fear of water, but when she was baptized (in a river) that the Peace of God came over her and she was fine. I felt like the guy who was bonked on the forehead in the V8 juice commercial...why didn't I think of that? I just needed to ask God for his peace.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It didn't make me feel any better that the doctor's office waited until the day before the MRI to call and ask me all those questions to see if you are able to have the test done. But the strangest thing happened during this conversation. After the young lady asked all the questions she said "Well, you are healthy, so you can have the test." I said "Whoa, whoa, wait a minute I'm not healthy I have IC, Fibro, etc. etc. She said "My Mom has IC."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">She went on to explain that her mother suffers a lot and is constantly trying new treatments. This is usually the case with most of us IC patients, because there is "no one cure fits all" plan. Most of the time there is much adversity in the life of an IC patient. As I fought back the tears I asked her to please share my blog address with her Mom. I also let her know that the ICA has a Facebook page for support. I told her that I haven't met anyone in my hometown that is struggling with IC and I would love to make a connection with her if she is interested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The next morning when I had the MRI I took the medication that the doctor prescribed to help calm my nerves. The technician covered me with a blanket, gave me earplugs and asked if I wanted a washcloth to cover my eyes. I said yes to the washcloth and lied down on the table and continued to pray for God's Peace. By the time the MRI was over I was asleep...talk about Peaceful! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Trust in the Lord and He will give you a peace like no other. Only He can give you <b><i>Purr-fect Peace</i></b> in your struggles...trust Him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-13834356303735954622014-01-05T12:23:00.000-08:002014-01-05T12:23:03.085-08:00Why NOT Me?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: navy; font-size: medium;">“So long, sucker! Ah ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha …” </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">POW! POW! POW! I woke up to a noise that sounded like gun shots! I went to bed at 9:00 that night because I felt so awful. I had felt terrible all week. I wasn't sleeping more than a couple of hours at a time. It was taking me a couple of hours to fall back to sleep and this night much to my disappointment was no different.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I think I would have paid my neighbors not to shoot those fireworks that woke me up. I needed sleep more than anything else. I wonder if they would have taken the money and used it to buy more fireworks!??! Or would they have told their children that they couldn't shoot fireworks this year because we live near a crazy lady who doesn't have any New Year's spirit!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">All week my Firbromyalgia (fibro) had been flaring. I felt achy all over, my head hurt, my hair hurt, my feet hurt and everything in between. But I had to crawl out of my only place of comfort (my bed) and go to work. By the second day I was miserable. I went to work and we needed to box up 2013 files...the last thing that I wanted to be doing. Fortunately for me it would be a short day and we would leave early. I was looking forward to going home and going to bed! Then I remembered I had a doctor's appointment at 4:00. No rest for the weary!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As I waited in the doctor's office I was in fear for my life again. There were so many sick people!! A little boy that was sitting very close to me was coughing. His mother said he had been lying around all day and not talking (How did I know this? She was on her cell phone and I heard every word of her conversation...Don't get me started on that!). Another lady walked in that looked like she had just crawled out of bed. At least she had a towel around her mouth to save me from the germs. I tried to melt into my seat, hold my head low and pretend I was invisible so the germs would not invade me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">When they called my name out to go back, I moved quickly. I was hoping to be safe from the germs. When I made it back to the final destination I quickly washed my hands and hoped for the best. A mere 2 hours later I was back in my car to head home. Of course I needed to drop off some prescriptions at the Pharmacy first and then I could finally go home and rest.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">When I'm in a fibro flare sleeping is difficult. I go to bed early in hopes of getting plenty of sleep. Then I toss and turn and flip and flop for hours before drifting off to sleep. It hurts my skin to touch anything. I feel like my skin is crawling and I just can't be still. It is a terrible feeling because I am dead tired, but I can't go to sleep. This is after I have taken several sedating medications and a sleeping pill!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My legs were hurting, my shoulder was hurting, my bladder was hurting and my back was hurting. I had 3 heating pads in bed with me. It was hard to decide where to place the heating pads. I decided on my legs, shoulder and bladder. Of course I rotated some of it around during the 2 hours. I was also having hot flashes. I would start out hot and kick all the cover off of me, then I would be cold and I would put all the cover back on me only to start the cycle again and again. What a night! I woke up every couple of hours and it took me just as long to get back to sleep.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">On New Year's Day the only time I left the house was to go pick up my prescriptions. My husband drove and on the way home it reminded me of how I felt after my surgeries. My body was weak, my bladder was burning, I had vaginal burning, it hurt for anything to touch my pelvic area (including clothes and the seat belt). Everything that usually hurts was in overdrive! So for me the Interstitial Cystitis and the fibro combined make me feel as if I have just woke up from anesthesia, right after someone sliced me open and took out my insides...yep, that about sums it up...and oh yeah, I even had the severe nausea that I pretty much have now on a daily basis to go along with it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">When I am flaring and not able to sleep I want to use the time to at least pray, but my brain is so tired that I have trouble doing even that. I am sick! I have to concentrate on making my body feel better and it uses all my energy. I can barely take care of myself much less think of others. This is very hard for me. It feels so selfish. I want to do more, but I can't...my body just won't let me. So then I can add guilt and depression to the list of things I am feeling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">By Thursday I started feeling better. Life was good and I was so thankful for so many things. I had peace in my heart. Is that the reason I go through all of this?? To make me more thankful for good days and to have more empathy for others when I feel better?? Maybe so, but it is hard to be patient and remember any of that when I am going through it. I just feel miserable and I want to stay in bed, stay away from others and just rest!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The other day I talked to a fellow Christian friend that has fibro and faces other health challenges with her children. We talked about how we say "Why me Lord?" But as she pointed out,<b><i> why NOT me? </i></b> She explained that her challenges have put her in situations to witness to people that she never would have met if not for the challenges she faces. I feel the same way. I want to use my pains and sorrows to let others know that there can be peace and our relationship with Him is still the same no matter what is going on in our life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="color: blue;">Prayer for the day</span></i><span style="color: blue;">:</span> "Father, I thank You for the peace You have given to me, which does not depend on feelings or circumstances." from Billy Graham's website: <a href="http://crossmap.christianpost.com/devotionals/billy-grahams-devotion-find-peace-with-god-psalm-2911-15998">http://crossmap.christianpost.com/devotionals/billy-grahams-devotion-find-peace-with-god-psalm-2911-15998</a></span></span></span></h2>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-41092003724654609842013-12-29T19:11:00.001-08:002013-12-29T19:21:23.924-08:00Learn, Live and Hope in 2014<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I want to remember 2013. I want to look back on the year and remember all that has happened...good and bad and see what I have learned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This year I knew that my job at the Telephone Company would end. I believe that this was the cause of some major stress in my life. I wasn't sure if I would be able to find a job, which caused me AND my husband much stress. I prayed for months that God would lead me in the right direction and of course He did! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then there were months were I stayed nauseated most of the time, I couldn't eat, I was in pain constantly and I could only sleep a couple of hours at a time. I was miserable!! I went to my Interstitial Cystis (IC) doctor and he started me on anti-depressants that changed my life for the better. He suspected that Fibromyalgia was causing some of my problems.(He was right) This taught me that you have to keep trying new treatments to keep your symptoms under control. Even if you think you are doing all the right things.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In June my daughter announced that her and her fiance would be getting married in October. I was excited, but yet frustrated by my physical limitations to prepare for the wedding. Thankfully I was feeling well enough to do some shopping and planning to help with the wedding and the wedding shower. We also had to rely on his family and our family to help. This reiterated the importance of family to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The last few months before the wedding were very stressful. But the wedding was beautiful and it was worth</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">all the money and time we spent on it. This reminded me how special love is and to look beyond someone's skin color in order to know them better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I found a new job at the Construction Company that suited me so well and has so much less stress</span>, <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I knew it was the best fit for me. This reminded me to always lean on God and trust that He will guide my steps if I do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A few months ago I had to "break up" with my physical therapist. And even though it was hard, I think it was the right thing to do. As I learned from an IC friend, I was making room for another patient to benefit from the knowledge of my Therapist.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So as I look forward to a new year, I want to remember the things that helped me through this year. I hope that 2014 will be good year for me and all my friends and family. I also hope all my friends and family who have IC, IBS, Fibro, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, Vulvodynia and other health and emotional issues will<i><b> </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b>Learn, live and Hope in 2014!!</b></i></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01447404123771958131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1821639194914803848.post-92164981812638249732013-12-15T18:36:00.000-08:002013-12-15T18:36:43.407-08:00Dig A Little Deeper!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/TRG9RyvOML0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Kutless "O Holy Night" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This is a great time of the year! I love hearing Christmas music like the song above. I enjoy planning family meals...But I kept thinking, <i>what am I missing?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My tree is decorated, my house is decorated. I even took a small Christmas tree to work to decorate our office...But I still said to myself, <i>what am I missing?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I asked for Christmas lists, completed almost all of my shopping (done mostly online of course!) and have even thought of stocking stuffers...But <i>what am I missing?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I know the true meaning of Christmas is celebrating the birth of my Saviour, Jesus Christ. I've read the Bible story and I know the words...But I thought <i>what am I missing?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This week I began to realize what I was missing...I was missing a deeper <b>joy</b> of Christmas! For me the <b>joy</b> of Christmas is found in many things, but I wanted to <i><b>dig a little deeper</b></i>... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have some ideas that will make the<b> joy</b> of Christmas even more meaningful in my own heart. I am going to do some things that will help others. Not just for my family...my family has everything we need. I'm going to go out of my way to help others. Having Interstitial Cystitis, Fibromyalgia, IBS, etc, etc has slowed me waaay down, but there are still things that I can do!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTrg_bxkp1xhxBynKFB-YHfOnXUqPOjJhzKpMsrIqumbd8dQ8nd5_Kc5FwL14uLnuGKDi_Wfd_DKhmiw7UOBb6QNI-AZSPMcfZ_SFxrP6WXtTpQ2HacfTLIT0fz_LOZiHF_O52vcfM0KIJ/s1600/Salvation+Army+Kettle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTrg_bxkp1xhxBynKFB-YHfOnXUqPOjJhzKpMsrIqumbd8dQ8nd5_Kc5FwL14uLnuGKDi_Wfd_DKhmiw7UOBb6QNI-AZSPMcfZ_SFxrP6WXtTpQ2HacfTLIT0fz_LOZiHF_O52vcfM0KIJ/s1600/Salvation+Army+Kettle.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I am going to invite friends to Christmas dinner who are living far away from their families. I'm gonna <i><b>dig a little deeper </b></i>and give the waiter or waitress at the restaurant a little extra tip. I'm going to help a family who is having a hard time this year. I'm <b><i>gonna dig a little deeper </i></b>and put some money in that little, red kettle every time I hear those bells ring. I'm going to try to cheer up a friend who doesn't have any Christmas joy. I'm gonna show my love to everyone I see this year. I'm going to say "Merry Christmas" and not "Happy Holidays!!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"What have <b>we</b> done with the true meaning of Christmas?" my Pastor asked our congregation this morning. I thought it was a brilliant way to get our attention and to take it to a personal level. The birth of Jesus is a joyful and wonderful gift from our Creator. God showed us His amazing love for us by sending His Son. We all are so wrapped up (pun intended) in the activities of the season, that we forget to share the <b>joy</b> of Christmas with others.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If we cannot find joy in our own celebration of Christmas, then how can others see Jesus in our lives? If we don't have love in our own hearts then we cannot share the message of Jesus with others. Jesus wants our heart ♥ This year I challenge you to stop and take the time to <i><b>dig a little deeper</b></i> and find out how God wants <b>you</b> to show His love to others this Christmas!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5g3ceI-EEPz9YYQLU3Rx0L1PsLw0qGnn9A57WLDYGxf-7EkPmncDgxge1d7r4J6yb1FLOtu6YyLGBiNIOmb9GN1pk5r_LPbVIaR6fe4fjhFKKKS4grGfSTjl4xEoMK5cnJVahkCKzXDN/s1600/manger+scene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5g3ceI-EEPz9YYQLU3Rx0L1PsLw0qGnn9A57WLDYGxf-7EkPmncDgxge1d7r4J6yb1FLOtu6YyLGBiNIOmb9GN1pk5r_LPbVIaR6fe4fjhFKKKS4grGfSTjl4xEoMK5cnJVahkCKzXDN/s320/manger+scene.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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