YEAH TANIA

IVs are highly UNDERRATED!!!  I so recommend them especially when you have been throwing up and had diarrhea for approximately 2 weeks.  I can relate it to a "tune up" that you have for your car. I thought I was going to have to die to feel better.

Tania, my PA that I see regularly, highly suggested it as she diagnosed dehydration.  She also made me aware of many side effects of dehydration - aches, pains, high blood pressure, and continued intestinal problems to name a few.  (No wonder I felt so bad).

Having an IV in my drs office is so much easier than in an ER.  Mock, who has been so much sicker than I have been, was "2 quarts" low, is now feeling much better too.  Earlier in the day, we had been directed by "The Center" to go to an ER for IVs.  When we arrived at a local Emergency Room, they said it would be at least 2 hrs or longer for anyone to see us.  With "sick" people all around us and the way we felt, we left after about 45 minutes.  We went to another ER and they said it would be at least 3 hrs, probably longer.  Needless to say, we went home, called my drs office and got an appointment for the next morning.

It is a shame that with all the technology available in this world, it would take 2-4 hrs to get to see a medical advisor.  At both places, which were full of patients, there was hospital personnel "standing around" with a seemingly indifferent attitude, and almost totally ignoring the people who came to a facility in hopes of getting help. We too experienced a lot of frustration during the experience, but we had options.  What about those who don't?

DIET IS A FOUR-LETTER WORD

Being told as a child I could not use 4-letter words, I have tried to avoid even being in the near vicinity of any with the exceptions of "LOVE" or "FOOD".  Unfortunately, I have become all too acquainted with the word "FOOD".

Since my retirement just about a year ago, I have had very little extra curricular activity AKA 'exercise' or some form thereof. AND, due to the fact that Ween is totally related to me in that there are very few foods we don't like, I am forced to face up to the "BIG D" word - (Diet).

Officially, I don't believe in Diets.  (That's my story and I'm sticking to it).  I don't think they are productive or healthy in the long run.  I do, however, believe in Food Plans and exercise.  That is exactly what I have decided to do.  I have several close friends who have tried to be helpful, and suggested many ways I could go, but I have to find what is right and what works for me.  It is a life-style change - a 24/7 day focus.

I don't have the energy nor the will power to have that kind of focus right, but just cutting down on bread, potatoes, and red-meat is how I'm starting.  I know me.  I don't choose to get rid of them altogether because if I decide to do that, I'll start craving them, and that would defeat the whole purpose.  Starting next Monday though, veggies and fruit only.  THE BIGGEST SACRIFICE IS NO DIET SODA.  We'll see how it goes and how long it lasts.  Hang in there for the updates.

On going

It seems as if the "thing to do" lately is to make a bucket list.  For those of you who have been in a cave somewhere, a bucket list is things to do before you "kick the bucket."  You know me - I am ALWAYS in vogue.  So, here goes:

1.  Win Lottery, ASAP.
2,  Check w/attorney
3.  Distribute money.
4,  Surgery
5.  New Food Plan
6.  Start new businesses
7.  Hire
8.  Find offices and referb; move in.
9.

Dog Gone

When my children were young and ill, it was extremely hard, emotionally, to stand by and do nothing.  That is exactly all you can do, NOTHING.  Now that they are grown, it's just as hard, especially when they won't let you help.  They must have a little of me somewhere in them because that is exactly how I feel when I'm sick. "Leave me alone; I'll get better."  And, some times you have to take them to the Dr. even when they are grown.  (Enough said)

One of the things I like about Ween is that she never complains. That can also be a hazard to her health.  I took her for grooming this week and when she was finally ready and I "reclaimed" her, she had a "raised knot" on her nose.  I turned around and took her back to the groomers (Ntl chain).  They noted it physically, verbally and by writing notations on her record.  I was informed that I was to call if she was not better the next day.  As she wasn't better "enough" to me, I called.  I was referred to their vet which was, of course, across the city.

Arriving as quickly as possible, I was given paperwork and asked to wait.  In a considerably short amount of time, I was shown into an examining room. Unfortunately, not before Ween had "pooped" on the waiting room floor.  She NEVER does that, but she gets extremely nervous when going to a vet.  They kindly cleaned up the mess and assured me that it wasn't the first time it had been done. (It WAS by my dog).

I liked Dr Kyla.  She reassured me that it looked like a small "hematoma" or bruise and should be better in days.  During the exam though, Dr found out that Ween had a serious ear infection in both ears.  That's the kind of companion she is;  never complaining. As I thought back, she DID indicate the problem by scraping her ears on the carpet.  I should have known something was wrong.  She is now on antibiotic ear drops, which she tolerates the induction of at minimal discomfort to me.

Sometimes it is hard being Dr. Mom; especially when the patient never complains.

There's no place like home; (click, click) There's no place like home.

Another beautiful night's sleep.  Not yet day break, the lights of the Cape were visible.  An emotional "let down" just as most any exciting event, and yet glad to be almost home.  Disembarking was fairly rapid and we were on our way within a few minutes.

How did things at home continue without me?  Apparently fairly well. My roommate is extremely competent so everything looked great.

Wiener, on the other hand, was another issue.  The best analogy I can give is - Are you familiar with "Saran Wrap?"  Or, have you tried to unwrap a DVD or CD?  She is still a "bit" clingy right now.  I'm sure the cold nose I get on the back of my leg will stop soon.  But, I'm really looking forward to going to the bathroom by myself again. Do you think she can really read minds?  Yeah.  I think she missed me.

THIRD DAY (Not the music group)

Looking out the sliding door, passed the verandah, and viewing the beautiful dark blues of the water against the lighter shades of the sky, is more beautiful than words can describe.  God really knows how to paint, doesn't He?

Coming into Castaway Cay we were delayed a bit because the helicopter was taking pictures again.  But, who could complain?  What a way to be delayed. 

I once again opted to have "breakfast" on the verandah; leisurely viewing the scenery; sipping coffee and having my bagel.  (This is rough, but somebody has to do it)  

After showering and dressing, I made my way to the island.  I did not stay long due to several reasons; none that I can mention at this time.  I did send post cards, which shall arrive sometime soon.   

I came back on board, ran some errands, went to the pool, and watched some of BOLT on the ginormous screen beside the pool.  There is an "adult" pool and spa area which is nice if you want a little quieter atmosphere.  There is also an adults only restaurant and bar close to the pool.  The island also has an adults only area.  (Disney is very detailed and usually thinks of everything)

Dinner tonight was at Animator's Palate Restaurant.  A totally unique experience!   There were pictures on the wall; painted and drawn; black and white and in color. 

The servers are in a less formal costume that I really liked with characters drawn on the long-sleeved shirt.  Their colors were red, black and yellow.

We walked into a "design" room with multiple items on the walls and tables that have to do with animation and design. 

The chairs were designed to look like Mickey's outfit.  The meal was also quite different.   The napkins were designed to look like "Luminar" the candle and  the butter knife looked like a small paint brush.  (I can see those walking away with the guests.  I was tempted myself)

The appetizer I ordered was a delicious  onion cheesecake with bits of ham.  This was similar to a quiche, but better.  The sauce on the plate was some sort of catsup-based decoration.  The cheesecake didn't need anything else with it for my taste.  


I also ordered a butternut squash soup with a "dollop" of sour cream.  This was very rich tasting and even better than I thought it would be.


Choosing my entree was as easy as selecting the dessert.  I chose a chicken and potatoes with carrots and beets in a sauce that tasted similar to the broth that is used to make beef stew.  It sounded yummy and it was.


The dessert I chose was their Great Temptations -  consisting of a lemon sponge cake with baked apples on top as a garnish; a double chocolate cake and last but not least a lemon mousse.


The presentations have all been wonderful and entirely appetizing.



 Shortly after we placed our order, the lights dimmed, the posters on the walls slid to the side and the whole area became an aquarium with all the Nemo characters swimming beside our tables.  It was beyond neat.  Crush swam up to our table and started talking and asking questions of everyone.  This interactive addition was extremely entertaining.  It continued throughout our dinner.

Bruce (the shark) was present, of course, and swimming so fast I could hardly take his picture.   The blow fish, Nemo, and Dori buzzed by and talked quickly.



The ray was a beautiful deep blue with white dots on its back.  I don't know his name or how he is woven into the story, but he was beautiful in the restaurant aquarium.

Once again, I waddled out of the restaurant and moved toward one of the theatre areas to see tonight's show - BELIEVE.

BELIEVE

The story is of a scientist who doesn't believe in Fairies but is trying to get his plant to grow.  His daughter, who does believe in Fairies, says if he believes the Fairies will help his project.

The characters from Disney movies all perform dances and songs about believing and wishing.

And, of course, when it ends his plant grows, and Everyone lives "HAPPILY EVER AFTER."






When the show was over, I went back to my stateroom and once again, fell asleep immediately.  So much to do; so little time.

Tomorrow is our last day.  We dock early.

AHOY, II - The Sequel

After a fantastic first day and a relaxing night, Saturday was another exciting time of expectations.  I had breakfast on the verandah, showered and got ready to go onto the Bahama Island.  It was chilly to me, so I layered just to get off the ship.

Charles had arranged a bus tour for me. (He thought of everything)  Anna Nicole Smith must have been quite a celebrity here for every other sentence had her name in it referring to her life while she was living there.  There were some beautiful old buildings, lots of tourist areas, restaurants, aquarium, casino and a straw market.

This decoration was in the entrance to the casino.  I'm not sure of the structure material, but it made for a great presentation.

Many of the shops and restaurants had varied offerings and seemed to welcome everyone with their wares.  After several hours of viewing, I returned to the ship and got ready for dinner.  There are such sumptuous offerings of food at dinner that I don't want to miss, I already decided to skip lunch while on the cruise.

Being a "guinea pig", of sorts, for Disney on the Inaugural voyage is anything but mundane or boring.  In true Disney style, everything is unbelievably opulent and grand - the size of the ship, the decor, the staff and of course the food.


The table setting was more elegant for this restaurant.  With golds and bronzes throughout, the decor lived up to the name.


The chandelier for the Royal Palace Restaurant was something my Kayla would love for her room.  Draped off the side were glass slippers.  (Truly made for a Princess.)




I almost forgot about taking a picture of my onion soup appetizer.  As you can tell, it was delicious.  As was the salad
that I had after it.


Lamb, au gratin potatoes and green beans never tasted so good.  I'm not sure what was in the sauce, but it was amazing.  


Again, I was forced to order dessert.  Being a "Creme Brulee" officiant of sorts, I had to order it.  

Even though the Great Temptations dish looked very tempting, I always have to try new creme brulees.  


This was just okay; almost a little bland.  In my opinion, it could have used some chocolate mousse or strawberry something or other under the creme.
But remember - I am VERY picky about that particular dessert.  It also had a "foamy" tasting cookie type offering on top with a strawberry in the middle.  


Other offerings were Roast Beef with a risotto and veggies, AND cheese ravioli dish with greens included.
It all looked delicious.

Two other desserts chosen were a chocolate mousse cake with whipped creme, and a sponge cake with strawberries and yogurt.


After the day off ship, the fantastic dinner and great conversation with our dinner companions, the "Pirates Show w/fireworks was next on the agenda.  I'm not a pirate fan, and I've probably seen a "kidzillion" fireworks that Disney has had, I opted out of the show and opted TO go back to the stateroom.  I was asleep almost as soon as I hit the mattress.  (I don't remember even changing clothes)



Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

AHOY

Having my picture made with Captain Mickey was an exciting way to start the cruise.  We boarded the ship by 1:30, had lunch at Cabanas, which is a buffet.  Just a "few" of the offerings were ham, crab, shrimp fixed 4
different ways including a shrimp salad, salmon fillet with bacon wrap, lamp chops, and any type of salad or veggie you might want.  Carved road beef was also available, but I went straight for the "peel and eat" shrimp.

An emergency drill was a mandatory meeting with a "good time had by all." An official welcome from Mickey And Minnie on 11th deck was next on the agenda.  A short rest in the stateroom, and off to dinner at the "Enchanted Gardens" Restaurant.  We rotated from Enchanted Gardens on Friday,  to Royal Palace on Saturday, and last on Sunday night to Animator's Palate.. The staff and other couple at our table also rotated with us.


On Friday night, at the Enchanted Gardens Restaurant, I chose an appetizer, salad, and entree that all had mushrooms as a base.  (I guess         
I was in a "mushroomy" mood)  The appetizer had mushrooms and mozzarella cheese.  The salad had chopped mushrooms in with a few greens. The entree was a saute' mushroom dish with sun dried tomatoes, and a sauce with a smooth, creamy guacamole base.  (Outstanding)  Dessert was NOT made of mushrooms, but called Great Temptations - Three mini desserts that just melted in your mouth. The first one to the left is a strawberry creme with a chocolate on the top, middle one was a lemon cake with lemon filling and chocolate swirled topping; and a chocolate mousse with creme.  Again,  unbelievably  delicious. 

As I waddled out of the restaurant, trying to let my food digest, someone suggested we go to the ice cream parlor.  (I couldn't believe he said that.)

To top off the evening, there was a performance of Disney's signature ship show, THE GOLDEN MICKEYS.  We saw this in Hong Kong when we were there, so I knew what to expect-outstanding entertainment.  The premise is they are awarding "Golden Mickeys" (not Oscars) to special shows and/or movies that were made by Disney.  Each "candidate" performed their section of the movie being considered.  Cruella was her usual "self".  Beauty and the Beast were also part of the show. There was also Pocahontas, Tarzan, and many other characters and wonderful music.

Afterward off to our stateroom and let the ship sweetly rock me to sleep.  Totally Awesome day.  I am truly blessed.

Waxing wise

Events in my life are sometimes less vivid as the years go by.  Tom's birthday is not one of those days.  Yesterday he would have been 65. Would he have retired?  Would we have been able to travel?  What would have been had he lived?  Can't really say.  I just know I still miss him.

My oldest son, Tom(my), sent me a text.  Not long or wordy; just - "Thinking of you today."  Whether he knows it or not, I appreciate that more than I could ever say.  Once in a while, he surprises me. He doesn't know it, he probably IS my favorite. He is the first born. Tom and I were so in love and excited about each other.  It's hard to beat that.  Charles is my extra blessing.  Unexpected but such a joy at a time when a lot wasn't right with Tom and my relationship.

Both my natural sons are unique in their own right.  They show their love in different ways.  My "adopted" sons are equally different.  Bret is more like Charles than Tom could ever be.  He and his family are such a part of my life they seem like they have always been here.  I haven't seen Edward in a while.  I miss him so much.  We text and email, but it's not the same.  And, my newest "adoptee" (Mock) has added dimensions and areas not previously there in my life.  All in all, God continues to surprise me when I least expect a new blessing.

Unexpected

Ween took me for a walk today.  If she hadn't, I would have missed the most glorious sight.  The sky was ablaze with an unbelievably gorgeous rainbow. It went from one side of the sky to the other with bright vivid colors sparkling in the rising sun.  No rain. No thunder. No storm of any kind; just this incredible sight, for me.

Having always loved rainbows, this to me was a sign from God.  If you remember, God gave Noah a rainbow to tell him the storm was over.  I receive this sign, today, to indicate my storm is over.  

One of the many "perks" of living in Florida is the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.  


On the other side of the apartment, the sun was rising; the clouds were rolling across the sky and even Ween was amazed at the sight. 


It was an unreal morning experience and I almost missed it.  Thanks Ween.

The future is?

Watching the tree blink the reds, blues, and greens, I can't help but wonder what is in store for this year.  It's a clean slate. It's unused. It's full of promise and hope.  I am also drinking coffee for the first time in this apartment.  My roommate bought me a coffee pot and a toaster yesterday just so I could start the year properly. (He's been very good to me).

I try not to delve into motives, but my brain jumps to - "Why am I in this place and time?"  Ween is asleep; Mock is asleep. And, I'm awake.  Lots of questions.  As you know, my name means "Question" in Hebrew, and I certainly live up to that.  My thoughts flit from thing to thing; not concentrating long on any one event or an unknown for very long.  Have I always been that way?  I think so. It's easy for me to appear to be listening by looking attentive; the volume inside my head will be muted and I'm off in my happy place once again.

Enjoying the coffee with the quiet stillness that surrounds me. I look forward to my cruise which is coming up in six days; another new experience holds adventure and excitement.  I remember this little girl in the backwoods of her childhood, who thought there must be more to life than what I was experiencing and yet, I had no hope of seeing it.  Life is interesting, isn't it?