Well, I survived my EMG test last week.
You would think the hardest part about a test like that would be having needles put into your muscles, followed by electricity being run through the needles.
Yes. That was hard. And extremely uncomfortable.
But to be honest, another challenging part was halfway through the exam when I was lying on my stomach, and the doctor said, “Okay, now I need you to turn over to your back.”
I don’t think she was quite prepared for the display of awkward flipping and flailing that followed.
It’s one thing to go from your side to your back, but it’s another thing entirely to do the full 360-degree flip. Plus, I was wearing a hospital gown, and it wound itself around me each time I levitated for a moment and then came down a fraction of a millimeter in the direction I was trying to go. Imagine me doing that 149 times to accomplish the total flip, and you can have some understanding of what that poor doctor had to witness.
Here is the table when I was done. Not a pretty sight.
As for the results, I haven’t spoken with the referring doctor, but the doctor who performed the test said it doesn’t appear to be a peripheral nervous system problem and is therefore probably a nervous system problem, which encompasses the brain, spine, and nerves. As I understand it, the next step will be for me to see a neurologist.
What was supposed to be a simple colonoscopy for Steve turned into an ordeal that required him to go without eating for 42 hours, take the prep liquid twice, and have two colonosopies within eighteen hours of each other. Not something he wants to go through again anytime soon.
When Steve woke up from his first colonoscopy, he very groggily but seriously asked, “Did you find any high-rise hotels in there?” Thankfully, they did not. However, two polyps were found and sent to the lab.
The week before his colonoscopy, he broke a tooth and had a temporary crown put on. Because of some complications, he was in the chair for over three hours as they worked on getting that crown created.
He is quite ready to be done with medical procedures and is happy to be back working on the front porch.
Last Tuesday, Sarah and Gage got moved out of their old apartment. They’ve spent the week with us and are moving into their new apartment tomorrow.
While they’ve been staying with us, Sarah cooked dinner several times and kept up with the dishes, which was wonderful timing with Steve out of commission with his double prep and double colonoscopies.
Thursday night, she made a wonderful vegetarian meal with tomatoes, cannellini beans, spinach, and several spices. It was all layered on sourdough bread that had been brushed with olive oil and baked ahead of time to crisp it up. Delish!
I recently saw this way of cutting a layer cake and thought it was interesting. The cake would serve a lot more people, and the slices would be more manageable. I think I will try that next time I cut a cake.
I came across this photo of my sister Ruth lately. I love everything about it–rural Wisconsin, a one-room schoolhouse, and a beloved sister in the frame.
At work, I am always greeting people and then saying goodbye as they leave. I am looking for goodbye phrases other than “Have a good one,” or “Take care.” If you have any suggestions, let me know in the comments.
Speaking of work, a couple of weeks ago, I wasn’t feeling well and was kind of shivery and icky feeling. Two young men walked by and said, “Hi, Miss Becky. How are you today?” When I told them I wasn’t feeling well, they immediately became concerned and said, “We are headed to lunch. We will bring you some soup.”
Forty-five minutes later, the most delicious chicken noodle soup arrived at my desk from these two thoughtful young men. There was also a brownie in the bag, which one young man said “he didn’t know how that got in there.” (wink, wink)
I gobbled that soup down like manna from heaven, warmed by its flavor and heartiness and also by the kindness of my young colleagues whose mammas obviously brought them up right in taking care of ailing, old-ish women.
Is Belle not so cute? She definitely has posing down to a science and is always near her stalwart brother.
Honestly, in the first few weeks after getting two dogs, I thought we’d made a mistake. It just seemed a little much. But now we are both loving having two of them; it’s nice when we sit on the couch, and each of us has a dog to cuddle. Although I will add that frequently, both dogs fight each other to get by Steve’s side; he is definitely their person.
We passed a milestone last week–23 years since Sarah’s bone marrow transplant. (This was her hat/wig combo after chemo and just before the BMT.) She always managed to have fun, regardless of what her life held.
I know many of us have heard about the monks who are doing a Walk for Peace from Texas to Washington, D.C.
Although there are many areas where our beliefs differ, I am always inspired by people who get out of their comfort zone and do something challenging and impactful.
When I found out their path was going to lead them through Charlotte, I thought, “Oh, I would love to go see them.” But then I considered the complexity of making that happen in the middle of a city of a million people (traffic, crowds, etc), and I kind of gave up on the idea.
However, I kept on watching the live feed as they approached Charlotte, and to my great delight, discovered that their route was going to take them down the street right in front of the building where I work. How great is that? I knew my boss wouldn’t mind if I put the phones on hold for five minutes and ran out to the street to watch as they passed.
The morning of their scheduled arrival in Charlotte, I checked the live feed again, and unfortunately, it showed their route had altered from what had been posted earlier. That wouldn’t have been too bad, but I had no idea what time they would be arriving, and I knew I couldn’t leave work altogether to drive to their location. So I (sadly) put the whole thing out of my mind and attended to the busyness of the day.
As I was leaving work that afternoon, I noticed increased traffic and police presence and realized that the monk’s altered route was still pretty close to my work. I snaked my way through some neighborhoods and found a place to park on the side of the road. Crowds were gathered all up and down, and there was so much anticipation in the air.
Suddenly, I noticed that vehicles everywhere were just starting up their engines and zooming off in another direction. Someone yelled out their window, “They’re going down Westinghouse Blvd. after all!” (Westinghouse is the street where I work.)
By that point, there was too much traffic and too many crowds for me to get turned around in time to see them. Reluctantly, I gave up the pursuit and my hope of catching a glimpse.
That was on Wednesday.
On Thursday afternoon, after Steve’s first colonoscopy up in the north part of the city; we had to drive a little way to pick up his extra prep stuff to drink. As I pulled out of the clinic onto the street, I noticed the guy ahead of us at the instersection had just stopped his car right in the middle of the road and had jumped out of his car and run across the street.
I thought, “What in the world?”
And then I looked up and saw what he had seen.
The monks were there walking along on the opposite side of the street! I couldn’t believe it.
Of course, I leapt out of my car too and ran up to the curb to look across the street at the procession. The thought of how many things had to fall into place in our schedule that day for us to be in the spot at that very time they were passing was mind-boggling.
I was so glad to be able to see those dedicated men walking for peace but even more grateful to be able to walk my own journey with the One who is our peace.
2 Thessalonians 3:16
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.
What about you?
Did the Walk for Peace come anywhere near to where you live?
Do you have any ideas for what to say to people as they are leaving?
Have you ever experimented with cutting round cakes a different way?
What is the best thing (big or small) that happened to you last week?
Well, unfortunately, our Walk of Peace? ended up with an Agent being killed – we have ICE in Minneapolis. And, of course, the blame goes to many. Pray those gentlemen will stay safe in their walk.
I have to mention your statement, ” saw what he had seen” – it warmed the cockles of my heart to read the appropriate way to use the word seen. I cringe when I hear “I seen” so often and wonder if teachers are teaching anything regarding that word?
Oh, my, you really went through some pain and topsy turveyness (don’t think that’s a word) and poor Steve, can’t imagine what he went through. Have never had a colonoscopy but had what they called a flexsig – something similar. Other than that, just did the home kits.
That precious picture of Sarah, she went through so much and you had many pictures of her smiling. The Lord has truly been with her for so many years – hard to believe it was 23 years ago.
Last week, well, nothing spectacular, but it was -7 on one day and -12 today. Thanking the Lord for a warm house and that I have a heating blanket!
Sharyn,
I am certainly happy to be able to warm the cockles of your heart, especially on such a snowy, cold day. I don’t know of many people who use that phrase so you using it warmed the cockles of my heart.
Yes, Steve and I pray for peace, in Minneapolis and in all the places it is needed–which is everywhere.
Oh my gosh!!! You had me in tears! The flipping description was the best!! 😂
Hoping Steve’s test results come out ok (can’t imagine having to do TWO colonoscopy preps back to back!!) and that a Neurologist can help figure you out.
I actually had not heard of the walk for peace. I don’t watch much news. It’s so awesome that you got to see the monks though!
I am actually making baby steps in my physical therapy and am getting more range of motion back every week. It’s hard work and painful at times but I’m determined to golf this Spring. I never dreamed it would be this hard. Ugh. Oh well. Will keep on!! 🙂
LeeAnne,
Yes, PT is definitely hard work so I’m extra glad to hear that you feel like you are making progress. It’s great that you have a “golf goal” to work toward in the spring. You’ve got this!
Glad you enjoyed my description of trying to get flipped over. I feel like that process took longer than the whole test! 🙂
Glad you and Steve made it through your tests! Not fun, yet you made them funny!
So, so happy for Gage and Sarah’s new place. Are they closer to you? They will love having more space! So thankful for the 23 years!!
And you got to see the monks! What a story!!! It reminded me of when Joann and I made a road trip for a wedding a long time ago. I was probably 18 or 19. We were going through some town and everything was blocked off. We parked the car and walked up to the street and asked what was happening. The guy told us that the President was going to be passing by. And there he was. As the car went by President Ford turned and looked at us, smiled and waved. I’ll never forget it!
For a good-bye phrase, I find myself saying, See you next time.
Carol
Carol,
I had never heard that story of you and Jo Ann getting to see Gerald Ford. How wonderful that you happened across his motorcade at exactly the right time. Definitely a memory you’ll keep forever.
No, Sarah and Gage are actually a little further away. They went from south Charlotte to east Charlotte. (We are in northwest Charlotte.) Their goal was to move closer to their church but not so far away that Gage would have to transfer to another location of Trader Joe’s. I think they’re 30-35 minutes from us.
I love “See you next time.” It’s folks and friendly.
See you next time!
Becky
My favorite Monday read. Honestly I thought I would die laughing over your description of flipping over. I can totally see myself doing the same thing. What is it about clothes that makes them roll around your body at the most inappropriate times. Gee whiz!!! And the two colonoscopies. Let me just say this about that. Ummmm NOPE JUST NOPE
Ever since my grown up son has been a little boy he has always loved older people ( a good thing since his mama is now an older people). I can see him bring soup to someone whom didn’t feel well. I am sure their mamas were proud. I certainly would be proud of my Matthew
I have picked up the habit of say “Have a blessed day”. I had it said to me and it gave me a blessing knowing someone would wish that for me. So that is my contribution to saying goodbye
Can’t wait to see Sarah and Gage’s new apartment. I know they are excited to have more space
As always thanks for showing up in my mailbox on Monday. Makes my day!!!
Gail,
Glad my flipping story was fun for you to read. I almost burst out into giggles while I was flipping because I could just picture the spectacle I was making.
I’m glad Matthew is so thoughtful with older people; you raised him right. I think it’s wonderful when a younger person takes the time to get to know all that older people have to offer.
Yes, I’m excited to see Sarah and Gage their slightly larger apartment into a home. They are actually moving today so are right in the thick of it. They’ll be glad to be done!
Although the Walk for Peace started only an hour or so from where I live, they went south instead of east so
they did not come through Mesquite.
Usually when saying bye I’ll say have a good rest of your day or when working basketball I’ll say have a safe trip home.
I’ve never thought about cutting a round cake differently, but that looks pretty cool. And the best thing that’s happened to me in the last week is having the coldest mornings of the week occur on the weekend so I didn’t have to get out in the cold nearly as early. It’s so nice to put on sweats and grab a blanket on the sofa. And the extended forcast looks like the same thing for next weekend. And as an added bonus we made wings and chili to nibble on all weekend.
Poor Steve – I think I’d gladly take needles with some zaps over two colonoscopy preps so close together.I pray that you both get good results. And I can’t wait to “see” Sarah & Gage’s new apartment; I’m sure they will have it looking so cute! That “toast dish” Sarah made looks really yummy…isn’t amazing how God times things out so that she was there to help with meals while you and Steve were having your procedures?!
Wishing you and yours a wonderful week!!
SueEllen,
I know. Isn’t it great to sit on a comfy sofa in comfy clothes and just enjoy being warm and snug? I love it. And not having to cook made it all the better for you.
I like your “goodbye sayings.” I need to make a whole list of them so I can rotate them.
Yes, we were definitely thankful for Sarah and Gage’s help during the past week. And now Steve is returning the help by assisting them with the move today.
I really have the same trouble when asked to turn over-and on a little narrow bed-right! Prayers that your and Steves results come back good.
Congrats to Sarah and Gage on their new apartment, and her dinner looks delish!
I have seen videos on cutting the cake that way, but I want the bigger pieces.
What a great treat your coworkers presented you with. They were definitely raised right.
I had not even heard of the Walk of Peace but what fun to see it. We were sitting in a gas station in CA once and all of a sudden all these cop and fire trucks went by. Before I had a chance to panic, I saw people with flags. Turned out to be a torch run for the Special Olympics. Fun to happen upon.
When people are leaving I usually say “see ya”, “take care” or as a joke “caio baby”. I have heard “until we meet again”, and “Until next time”, and “peace out” is the new trendy one.
Best thing last week was I found out that the woman who bought the ice cream themed quilt last week, just found out she was pregnant and was going to use it for the baby.
Patti,
I love your story about the ice cream-themed quilt. Very timely–and fun!
A torch run for the Special Olympics would be so special to see. I’m glad you happened on it.
Yes, I definitely like the bigger cake pieces, too. I guess that technique I showed was when you have a bigger crowd and need the cake to stretch further!
I just enjoyed my favorite Monday morning activity: Reading Smithellaneous with a cup of coffee in hand. Best start to the week! 🙂
This was a certainly a page turner of a Thing Post, filled with a variety of such interesting things!
First off, I’m thankful you both made it through the current batch of medical challenges. Wow, you guys have been through it! I’m always so inspired/impressed at how you both hang on to your sense of humor through all the junk. From Steve’s high rise hotel comment to your flipping over on the table account, I’m horrified by what you’re going through and then I’m chuckling over your description of it all. I’m not an insensitive lout, really I’m not! It’s all your fault–you’re too good a writer! 🥰
Sarah’s supper looks fabulous! I love how it worked out for she and Gage to be with you guys as her 23 year transplant marker is celebrated. And they’re always the best helpers to have around! So glad they are moving into a bigger place.
Love the picture of Ruth–so pretty!
I’ve obviously been living under a rock (which isn’t a bad place to be these days, actually) cause I hadn’t heard of the Peace Walk. After you almost didn’t get to see them walking, it’s amazing how it finally worked out so you could catch that rare glimpse!
We’re in a deep freeze up here in WI for the next few weeks which does NOT warm the cockles of my heart. I looked up your weather and see you’ll be having some 40ish-50ish temps and even one day at 60! I asked Randy why we were living up here in this stupid Arctic tundra anyway and he suggested moving to Charlotte. So we’ll be right down.
Sending love and throwing a few icicles your way from our jealous, frost-bitten fingers. (Who knew fingers could be jealous?) 🤔
Love, Deb
Deb,
You must have been looking at an old weather forecast because at the moment, we are expecting a big winter storm this weekend! We are trying to do our best imitation of Wisconsin.
I appreciate you appreciate our senses of humor during our medical trials. It’s nice when things just naturally “present themselves” to be laughed at, i.e., Steve’s high rise hotel line. Never know what what man is oing to say–either coming out of anestheia or not!
It makes me happy to know that my blog accompanies your Monday morning cup of coffee. I feel like I am in good company. (And we can’t forget the company of Croix the cat, lurking in the backround while you’re reading!)
I hope you enjoy reading more about the Peace Walk. I think the thing that inspires me the most is that the monks live almost all the time in a monasterey. They only leave when they feel it’s absolutely necessary. Can you imagine leaving a cloistered monastery and suddenly being thrust in the limelight in hundreds of towns as you spread your message of peace? I really admire their dedication and commitment.
Your comments always make me smile; thanks for taking the time to comment on so many of the things! Hugs!