This last week I received two telephone calls from two different offices...
The first was from the Dermatologist to tell me they got all the Cancer on my neck. WOOHOO! I can breathe a sigh of relief. Although, I will be going back several times over the next few weeks for various follow-ups and will have to continue seeing Dermo for the rest of my life. It sucks having pale skin, but I will do what is necessary to keep myself healthy.
The second was from my PCM's office. I have what is known as Stress Incontinence, which requires a referral to a specialist in the Urogynecologist field. According to the Mayo Clinic, Stress Incontinence a condition where you may feel embarrassed, isolate yourself, or limit your work and social life, especially exercise and leisure activities. With treatment, you'll likely be able to manage stress incontinence and improve your overall well-being. I will be calling Walter Reed Army Medical Center this next week to schedule an appointment.
Stress Incontinence is VERY common in women.
Here is some information, all taken from the Mayo Clinic website to help you determine if you too have a problem. I went a long period of time before discussing the issue with my doctor, but after some strong encouragement from a friend, I sucked it up and made the call.
My final straw was participating in an evolution with a large number of personnel and wetting myself and not having anywhere to go to fix the problem.
If you experience urine leakage during the following activities, it is time to call your doctor:
- cough
- sneeze
- laugh
- stand-up
- lift something heavy
- exercise
Do not let the loss of urine during these activities interfere with the above daily activities.
The primary leading cause of the loss of tone in my pelvic floor and urinary sphincter muscles was probably childbirth, remember, I have had four children. A few other contributing factors may be:
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Illness that may cause chronic coughing and sneezing
- Obesity
- Smoking, which causes chronic coughing
- Diabetes, which can cause excess urine production and nerve damage
- Excess consumption of caffeine and alcohol
- Medications that cause a rapid increase in urine production
- sports, suck as tennis or running
Some Risk Factors:
- Age
- Childbirth
- Body Weight
- Previous Pelvic Surgery
Some complications of Stress Incontinence:
- Personal distress
- Mixed Urinary Incontinence
- Skin Rash or Irritation
Preparing for your appointment
What you can do to get the most from your visit to the doctor, prepare in advance:
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing. Include all of your symptoms, even if you don't think they're related.
- Make a list of any medications or vitamin supplements you take, regardless of how common you think they are. Many over-the-counter supplements can irritate the urinary tract. Also write down doses and how often you take the medication.
- Have a family member or close friend accompany you. You may be given a lot of information at your visit, and it can be difficult to remember everything.
- Take a notebook or notepad with you. Use it to write down important information during your visit.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor. List your most important questions first, in case time runs out.
For urinary incontinence, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:
- Will my urinary incontinence go away eventually?
- What tests might I need to determine the cause of my incontinence?
- Will changing my diet help with my incontinence?
- How does my weight affect my condition?
- Could pelvic floor exercises help me? How do I do them?
- Could the medicines I take be aggravating my condition?
- Are there any medications that would help with my bladder control?
- What additional testing will I need to undergo?
- Will I need surgery?
Make sure that you understand everything your doctor tells you. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor to repeat information or to ask follow-up questions for clarification.
What to expect from your doctor
Be prepared to answer questions from your doctor. Potential questions your doctor might ask include:
- How often do you leak urine?
- When you leak urine, is it a few drops or are your clothes soaked?
- Do you leak urine when you laugh, cough, sneeze or lift heavy objects?
- Do you leak urine when you exercise?
- How often do you urinate in the toilet during the day?
- Do you wake up at least twice during the night to urinate?
- What's your typical daily fluid intake?
- Do you drink beverages with caffeine or alcohol? How many each day?
- Does anything seem to make your incontinence better? How about worse?
- What's the most bothersome aspect of your problem with urinary incontinence?
During work-up, your doctor will look for:
- A medical history
- A complete physical examination with particular focus on your abdomen and genitals
- A urine sample to test for infection, traces of blood or other abnormalities
- A neurological exam to identify sensory problems
- A urinary stress test, in which the doctor observes urine loss when you cough or bear down
Some specialized tests that may be needed:
- Measurements of postvoid residual urine
- Measuring bladder pressure
- Creating images of the bladder as it functions
Treatments and Drugs:
Behavioral therapies
- Fluid consumption
- Healthy lifestyle changes
- Scheduled toilet trips
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises
Devices
- Vaginal pessary
- Urethral inserts
Surgery
- Injectable bulking agents
- Open retropubic colposuspension
- Sling procedure
- Inflatable artificial sphincter
Some lifestyle and home remedies, may include:
- Shed extra weight
- Add fiber to your diet
- Avoiding eating or drinking substances that may irritate your bladder
- Maintain proper fluid intake
- Don't smoke
Why am I putting myself out there (embarrass myself)? I do not want to see anyone go through what I went through. It is important for all of us to be educated and get treatment immediately.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
I Fell Off the Wagon
I fell off the wagon and have no one to blame but myself. I care too much about my family and friends to lie to you...
Whoa? What?
For those that know me well, it could mean a variety of things... Three to be exact!!!
#1 We arrived here in New York last Saturday night and I knew as soon as I arrived, I would be going down to Manhattan with my S.I.L. and her friends. As soon as I jumped in the car with a bunch of smokers, I lit up. Since then, I have been wandering outside with my F.I.L. and lighting up at every opportunity. I cannot believe my lack of will power... I was doing extremely well. I had been smoke-free more than four months.
My poor hubby had not been here most of the week and I neglected to mention it to him each time I spoke to him on the phone. I finally told him yesterday, casually as I walked out the back door to light up. I have also been avoiding speaking to my mother (sorry Mom, I love you) knowing full-well that I would break down and tell her. I can never seem to keep anything from her, I am a little too honest for my own good.
Smoking is bad for my health and I know it. I will say that I have done my best to limit the number of cigarettes per day to about 5 or so, except maybe that first Saturday I was here. No, seriously, I have. I refuse to buy a pack of smokes, knowing full well one leads to two. Also, if you are a smoker in New York, you know how expensive they are. HIGHWAY ROBBERY!!!
I have had one smoke this morning and have been up since 0730, I going to do my best to resist temptation the rest of the time I am here and call it quits. No promises! If I do this, it is for me.
#2 Prior to driving up here, I was doing quite well with my diet. For nearly two weeks, I was eating healthy and with the splurge Friday night at my buddy Jeremy's wedding I ate really well. I ensured that Saturday I ate healthy, knowing that I would be going out to dinner at Dos Caminos. I know, I know... I need to splurge a little. Have you ever tried to eat healthy in an environment you cannot control? I tried my best to bring stuff for my breakfast and lunches, problem was, I would leave the food downstairs in my S.I.L.s apartment and was too lazy to walk downstairs to get it. This morning, I made myself a healthy breakfast, Greek yogurt, which I mixed with Kashi Go Lean and a glass of diet cranberry juice. For lunch, I plan to make my favorite tuna recipe...
1 packet light tuna
2 tbsp feta
2 tbsp walnuts
2 diced sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil
1 100 calorie sandwich thin
Why do all this now, when I have no control of my environment... because I know over the next 24 hours, with the exception of Easter dinner, I have no control over the menu. What I do have control of is the portion size. I really need to put forth the effort because no one can force me to follow a diet, I have to have the will power. It is my life and my body!
#3 The two-weeks leading up to Easter break, I had been exercising almost daily and journaling ever calorie I ate and burned. I had packed up the Wii, so I could exercise while I was here; problem... who was going to watch the three kids while I worked out? Oh, that's right! NO ONE!!! I did manage to get a drunk workout in last Saturday when my S.I.L., her friend and I found ourselves at a bar in da' Bronx. I think we were the only ones burning holes in the dance floor. I wonder if walking around the supermarket with my M.I.L. for 90 minutes counts as exercise... I count it when I go shopping, but that is when I am pushing the shopping cart.
I have three weeks three weeks prior to weigh-ins and the semi-annual PFA and I am nowhere near ready. The next three weeks is going to be grueling on my body and it has to be done.
Why am I telling you all this? I have no idea. I am not asking anyone to hold me accountable. I need to hold myself accountable.
Whoa? What?
For those that know me well, it could mean a variety of things... Three to be exact!!!
#1 We arrived here in New York last Saturday night and I knew as soon as I arrived, I would be going down to Manhattan with my S.I.L. and her friends. As soon as I jumped in the car with a bunch of smokers, I lit up. Since then, I have been wandering outside with my F.I.L. and lighting up at every opportunity. I cannot believe my lack of will power... I was doing extremely well. I had been smoke-free more than four months.
My poor hubby had not been here most of the week and I neglected to mention it to him each time I spoke to him on the phone. I finally told him yesterday, casually as I walked out the back door to light up. I have also been avoiding speaking to my mother (sorry Mom, I love you) knowing full-well that I would break down and tell her. I can never seem to keep anything from her, I am a little too honest for my own good.
Smoking is bad for my health and I know it. I will say that I have done my best to limit the number of cigarettes per day to about 5 or so, except maybe that first Saturday I was here. No, seriously, I have. I refuse to buy a pack of smokes, knowing full well one leads to two. Also, if you are a smoker in New York, you know how expensive they are. HIGHWAY ROBBERY!!!
I have had one smoke this morning and have been up since 0730, I going to do my best to resist temptation the rest of the time I am here and call it quits. No promises! If I do this, it is for me.
#2 Prior to driving up here, I was doing quite well with my diet. For nearly two weeks, I was eating healthy and with the splurge Friday night at my buddy Jeremy's wedding I ate really well. I ensured that Saturday I ate healthy, knowing that I would be going out to dinner at Dos Caminos. I know, I know... I need to splurge a little. Have you ever tried to eat healthy in an environment you cannot control? I tried my best to bring stuff for my breakfast and lunches, problem was, I would leave the food downstairs in my S.I.L.s apartment and was too lazy to walk downstairs to get it. This morning, I made myself a healthy breakfast, Greek yogurt, which I mixed with Kashi Go Lean and a glass of diet cranberry juice. For lunch, I plan to make my favorite tuna recipe...
1 packet light tuna
2 tbsp feta
2 tbsp walnuts
2 diced sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil
1 100 calorie sandwich thin
Why do all this now, when I have no control of my environment... because I know over the next 24 hours, with the exception of Easter dinner, I have no control over the menu. What I do have control of is the portion size. I really need to put forth the effort because no one can force me to follow a diet, I have to have the will power. It is my life and my body!
#3 The two-weeks leading up to Easter break, I had been exercising almost daily and journaling ever calorie I ate and burned. I had packed up the Wii, so I could exercise while I was here; problem... who was going to watch the three kids while I worked out? Oh, that's right! NO ONE!!! I did manage to get a drunk workout in last Saturday when my S.I.L., her friend and I found ourselves at a bar in da' Bronx. I think we were the only ones burning holes in the dance floor. I wonder if walking around the supermarket with my M.I.L. for 90 minutes counts as exercise... I count it when I go shopping, but that is when I am pushing the shopping cart.
I have three weeks three weeks prior to weigh-ins and the semi-annual PFA and I am nowhere near ready. The next three weeks is going to be grueling on my body and it has to be done.
Why am I telling you all this? I have no idea. I am not asking anyone to hold me accountable. I need to hold myself accountable.
Proud Wifey
Yesterday, after talking couponing all week with my Mother-In-Law, finally took her shopping.
It was a little easier to take her where the bigger savings were when the two biggest supporters of BJs were not home. We avoided that... that... that place. Every two-weeks they go shopping and every two weeks they drop $300. OMG!!! I have the same amount of people in my household and we spend half that.
First we stopped at Rite Aid and I encouraged her to get their Wellness Card to maximize her savings. She is a pretty savvy shopper and knows to look for deals, but sometimes you have to look beyond those deals. I won't name the item, but two different types of one brand were on sale, one was definitely cheaper than the other, yes it had less in the box, but when you did the math, the cheaper box came out on top. Besides it was BOGO 1/2 off; and when you added the amount of product in the one box to the other and did the math, it still came out cheaper. DUH!
I told her, there were three things she needs when she shops... savings card (if the store has one), coupons and a calculator.
It still drove me batty that she tried to tell me, you can still get more in a box from BJs... Grrr! Really woman! Do the math and then tell me you get more. Make a liar out of me.
I am trying to teach her to buy groceries from their local grocery store, which, oh by the way has 5% off every $30 you spend on Monday's for Seniors. Okay, I understand you cannot possibly do that right now, while you are teaching, but hello.
I understand that both my sister-in-laws are trying their best to eat healthy, but they don't need to go to BJs to get a bulk amount. All I ask is that they do the math per unit and see what they are spending and then go to a grocery store and do the same.
Once we got home; oh by the way, we managed to save nearly $50. I admit the shopping was mostly for meals over the next several days, after all, there are 10 of us (plus a few additional guests stopping in to partake in meal time) in the house right now. However, we did buy other items, which will be used even after we depart on Sunday night. Anyway, my husband, oh how I love him, stepped in the conversation and explained various other ways the family could save money at local stores.
Printer ink, for instance... Don't throw away your cartridges!!! Get yourself, either a Staples or Office Depot card and turn in your empty cartridges. Different stores offer different savings programs. We recently received $10 off our next $50 spent. AWESOME! Especially since ink is so darn expensive.
I just spoke to my mother-in-law and promised her that I would find a coupon blogger that is local, who compares pricing...
UPDATE!!! UPDATE!!! UPDATE!!!
I am actually pretty proud of myself... I had one more cigarette yesterday, totaling two for the day.
It was a little easier to take her where the bigger savings were when the two biggest supporters of BJs were not home. We avoided that... that... that place. Every two-weeks they go shopping and every two weeks they drop $300. OMG!!! I have the same amount of people in my household and we spend half that.
First we stopped at Rite Aid and I encouraged her to get their Wellness Card to maximize her savings. She is a pretty savvy shopper and knows to look for deals, but sometimes you have to look beyond those deals. I won't name the item, but two different types of one brand were on sale, one was definitely cheaper than the other, yes it had less in the box, but when you did the math, the cheaper box came out on top. Besides it was BOGO 1/2 off; and when you added the amount of product in the one box to the other and did the math, it still came out cheaper. DUH!
I told her, there were three things she needs when she shops... savings card (if the store has one), coupons and a calculator.
It still drove me batty that she tried to tell me, you can still get more in a box from BJs... Grrr! Really woman! Do the math and then tell me you get more. Make a liar out of me.
I am trying to teach her to buy groceries from their local grocery store, which, oh by the way has 5% off every $30 you spend on Monday's for Seniors. Okay, I understand you cannot possibly do that right now, while you are teaching, but hello.
I understand that both my sister-in-laws are trying their best to eat healthy, but they don't need to go to BJs to get a bulk amount. All I ask is that they do the math per unit and see what they are spending and then go to a grocery store and do the same.
Once we got home; oh by the way, we managed to save nearly $50. I admit the shopping was mostly for meals over the next several days, after all, there are 10 of us (plus a few additional guests stopping in to partake in meal time) in the house right now. However, we did buy other items, which will be used even after we depart on Sunday night. Anyway, my husband, oh how I love him, stepped in the conversation and explained various other ways the family could save money at local stores.
Printer ink, for instance... Don't throw away your cartridges!!! Get yourself, either a Staples or Office Depot card and turn in your empty cartridges. Different stores offer different savings programs. We recently received $10 off our next $50 spent. AWESOME! Especially since ink is so darn expensive.
I just spoke to my mother-in-law and promised her that I would find a coupon blogger that is local, who compares pricing...
UPDATE!!! UPDATE!!! UPDATE!!!
I am actually pretty proud of myself... I had one more cigarette yesterday, totaling two for the day.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Birthday Weekend Round-Up
Friday was my birthday and I am, unfortunately, a year older. UGH! Forty is creeping up way too fast... Is there any way to stop it?
Ah, well...
Friday, Justin and I spent the day together, most of it consisted of running errands and preparing for my friend Jeremy's wedding, but in the midst, hubby took me to Panera Bread (Mmm... my favorite) for lunch. I managed to enjoy a low-cal turkey sandwich, bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup, baguette and a Diet Pepsi (could have done without the baguette, but oh well, sh** happens). When we got home, I took on the torturous task of giving myself a mani/pedi and painting both a Champagne color (oooh... purdy!) and straitened my hair. Someone please explain to my why being a woman has to be so difficult. After that, I had to contributory assignments that were due that evening (which I hadn't even started), I only had about 90 minutes to complete them. Don't worry, I finished, I work really good under pressure.
Here is the address, for those interested in reading some of my content: http://contributor.yahoo.com/user/1024636/marian_r_canzoniero.html.
About 5 o'clock, Justin and I left the kiddos with respite (I love Easter Seals and the Navy for making this service available to families with children with Special Needs! Just sayin'!) and drove (about an hour) to Vienna, VA for Jeremy and Melina's wedding. Had a really great time, hung out with my friend, Christine and her friend, Ken (with the quirky sense of humor).
Saturday morning I took on the painstaking task of cleaning up the house, finishing laundry and packing for four (five, if you count the dog). Grrr... Not fun when you have three children that don't want to help you get out the door quicker. Needless to say, we didn't get on the road until after 1 p.m. GRRR! It was a very long, wet four hour (plus) drive into New York City.
Once we got here, Justin's family took over the care of the kids so I could take a shower and prepare for my night on the town with my sis-in-law, Jen and her friends to celebrate mine and Renata's (Jen's friend) birthday's. We drove down to Dos Caminos in Midtown (Manhattan). I started the evening with a Prickly Pear Margarita (note to self: Don't drink on an empty stomach while drinking potent drinks), which is definitely worth the $11. Once seated, our waitress convinced us to try the spicy guacamole (which wound up costing us $50 for two bowls, it was good, but wow, who knew). For dinner, I ate Carne Parrillada (grilled sirloin, smoked bacon, poblano chilis, guacamole and cotija cheese), which was yummy, but I managed to continue filling up on margarita's (two, I think) and chips and guac, so I was full before I started. For dessert (I had to, after all we were there to celebrate our birthdays), Renata and I enjoyed White & Dark Chocolate Fondue (served with churros, cocadas, passion fruit, marshmallows and a selection of fruit for dipping). Good thing Jen, Renata and I decided to come back to da Bronx to a bar (with a dance floor) because I needed to work off everything I ate and drank, although, I did continue to drink. We had a blast at the bar, wasn't too crowded and we were able to get our dance on. I think the only pitfall, was this sloppy drunk who wouldn't leave us alone. When Jen and I finally got home, everyone was sleeping, except Dad (GO FIGURE! Nothing new. LOL!), we proceeded to enjoy leftover Chinese food and pizza). When I finally hit the pillow, around 3:30, I WAS DONE!
For those who are interested and want a good Mexican restaurant to visit when they make it to Manhattan, go to: http://www.doscaminos.com/.
Yesterday, I woke around 10:30... The day proceeded to drag, of course and I was in the mood for nothing... Once I was finally functional again, it was time to prepare to head down to the "West Side" to go to Pasha, which just happens to be the restaurant my sis-in-law Kathleen's boyfriend works at. WOW! What food, what service. For appetizers, we had: Sigara Boregi (Pan fried crispy phyllo dough filled with feta cheese, parsley and dill), Yaprak Sarmasi (Grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, currants, fresh dill and mint), Soslu Patlican (Cubes of spicy eggplant tossed with fresh chopped tomatoes, garlic and extra virgin olive oil), Kalamar Tava (Crispy calamari served with a garlic walnut sauce), Manti (Tender steamed dumplings filled with ground lamb and fresh mint, drizzled with a light garlic yogurt sauce), Ahtapot Salatasi (Tender octopus tossed with red onion, diced tomatoes, green olives, fresh dill, parsley and balsamic dressing) and Coban Salata (Shepherds salad) (Chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, tender long green peppers, red onions and parsley tossed with extra virgin olive oil and vinegar). Of course we shared everything amongst the eight of us that went... For dinner we had: Tavuk Sis (Marinated cubes of chicken grilled on a skewer with peppers and onions served with rice), Tavuk Gogsu Sarmasi1 )Marinated chicken breast stuffed with rice, pistachios and currants, served on a bed of sauted spinach with white wine tarragon sauce), Kuzu Pirzola (Grilled baby lamb chops sprinkled with oregano, served with grilled tomatoes and peppers) and Alabalik Tava (Boneless brook trout dusted with cornmeal, pan seared, served with rice and vegetables). For dessert, we enjoyed, OMG! everything: Kaymakli Kayisi (Poached apricots filled with creme fraiche, sprinkled with pistachios), Baklava (Phyllo pastry filled with walnuts with light honey syrup), Cikolatali Kek (Two chocolate sponge layers separated with a light mousse of bittersweet chocolate and finished with a rich chocolate glaze), and Firinda Sutlac (Oven baked traditional Turkish rice pudding). Maddie enjoyed sorbet and some Toblerone chocolate from the bartender. I also tried some Turkish Coffee, which was yummy and then attempted to have the grinds read. I will say, Oguz tried. I did my absolute best to try everything on the menu, except the obvious... SEAFOOD. WOW! It was good. I am hoping to take Justin at some point.
Thank you to all those who made my birthday weekend... NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING!!!
For those of you who find yourself on the "West Side" and would like to try some Turkish Cuisine, go to: http://www.pashanewyork.com/.
Ah, well...
Friday, Justin and I spent the day together, most of it consisted of running errands and preparing for my friend Jeremy's wedding, but in the midst, hubby took me to Panera Bread (Mmm... my favorite) for lunch. I managed to enjoy a low-cal turkey sandwich, bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup, baguette and a Diet Pepsi (could have done without the baguette, but oh well, sh** happens). When we got home, I took on the torturous task of giving myself a mani/pedi and painting both a Champagne color (oooh... purdy!) and straitened my hair. Someone please explain to my why being a woman has to be so difficult. After that, I had to contributory assignments that were due that evening (which I hadn't even started), I only had about 90 minutes to complete them. Don't worry, I finished, I work really good under pressure.
Here is the address, for those interested in reading some of my content: http://contributor.yahoo.com/user/1024636/marian_r_canzoniero.html.
About 5 o'clock, Justin and I left the kiddos with respite (I love Easter Seals and the Navy for making this service available to families with children with Special Needs! Just sayin'!) and drove (about an hour) to Vienna, VA for Jeremy and Melina's wedding. Had a really great time, hung out with my friend, Christine and her friend, Ken (with the quirky sense of humor).
Saturday morning I took on the painstaking task of cleaning up the house, finishing laundry and packing for four (five, if you count the dog). Grrr... Not fun when you have three children that don't want to help you get out the door quicker. Needless to say, we didn't get on the road until after 1 p.m. GRRR! It was a very long, wet four hour (plus) drive into New York City.
Once we got here, Justin's family took over the care of the kids so I could take a shower and prepare for my night on the town with my sis-in-law, Jen and her friends to celebrate mine and Renata's (Jen's friend) birthday's. We drove down to Dos Caminos in Midtown (Manhattan). I started the evening with a Prickly Pear Margarita (note to self: Don't drink on an empty stomach while drinking potent drinks), which is definitely worth the $11. Once seated, our waitress convinced us to try the spicy guacamole (which wound up costing us $50 for two bowls, it was good, but wow, who knew). For dinner, I ate Carne Parrillada (grilled sirloin, smoked bacon, poblano chilis, guacamole and cotija cheese), which was yummy, but I managed to continue filling up on margarita's (two, I think) and chips and guac, so I was full before I started. For dessert (I had to, after all we were there to celebrate our birthdays), Renata and I enjoyed White & Dark Chocolate Fondue (served with churros, cocadas, passion fruit, marshmallows and a selection of fruit for dipping). Good thing Jen, Renata and I decided to come back to da Bronx to a bar (with a dance floor) because I needed to work off everything I ate and drank, although, I did continue to drink. We had a blast at the bar, wasn't too crowded and we were able to get our dance on. I think the only pitfall, was this sloppy drunk who wouldn't leave us alone. When Jen and I finally got home, everyone was sleeping, except Dad (GO FIGURE! Nothing new. LOL!), we proceeded to enjoy leftover Chinese food and pizza). When I finally hit the pillow, around 3:30, I WAS DONE!
For those who are interested and want a good Mexican restaurant to visit when they make it to Manhattan, go to: http://www.doscaminos.com/.
Yesterday, I woke around 10:30... The day proceeded to drag, of course and I was in the mood for nothing... Once I was finally functional again, it was time to prepare to head down to the "West Side" to go to Pasha, which just happens to be the restaurant my sis-in-law Kathleen's boyfriend works at. WOW! What food, what service. For appetizers, we had: Sigara Boregi (Pan fried crispy phyllo dough filled with feta cheese, parsley and dill), Yaprak Sarmasi (Grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, currants, fresh dill and mint), Soslu Patlican (Cubes of spicy eggplant tossed with fresh chopped tomatoes, garlic and extra virgin olive oil), Kalamar Tava (Crispy calamari served with a garlic walnut sauce), Manti (Tender steamed dumplings filled with ground lamb and fresh mint, drizzled with a light garlic yogurt sauce), Ahtapot Salatasi (Tender octopus tossed with red onion, diced tomatoes, green olives, fresh dill, parsley and balsamic dressing) and Coban Salata (Shepherds salad) (Chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, tender long green peppers, red onions and parsley tossed with extra virgin olive oil and vinegar). Of course we shared everything amongst the eight of us that went... For dinner we had: Tavuk Sis (Marinated cubes of chicken grilled on a skewer with peppers and onions served with rice), Tavuk Gogsu Sarmasi1 )Marinated chicken breast stuffed with rice, pistachios and currants, served on a bed of sauted spinach with white wine tarragon sauce), Kuzu Pirzola (Grilled baby lamb chops sprinkled with oregano, served with grilled tomatoes and peppers) and Alabalik Tava (Boneless brook trout dusted with cornmeal, pan seared, served with rice and vegetables). For dessert, we enjoyed, OMG! everything: Kaymakli Kayisi (Poached apricots filled with creme fraiche, sprinkled with pistachios), Baklava (Phyllo pastry filled with walnuts with light honey syrup), Cikolatali Kek (Two chocolate sponge layers separated with a light mousse of bittersweet chocolate and finished with a rich chocolate glaze), and Firinda Sutlac (Oven baked traditional Turkish rice pudding). Maddie enjoyed sorbet and some Toblerone chocolate from the bartender. I also tried some Turkish Coffee, which was yummy and then attempted to have the grinds read. I will say, Oguz tried. I did my absolute best to try everything on the menu, except the obvious... SEAFOOD. WOW! It was good. I am hoping to take Justin at some point.
Thank you to all those who made my birthday weekend... NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING!!!
For those of you who find yourself on the "West Side" and would like to try some Turkish Cuisine, go to: http://www.pashanewyork.com/.
What would you do?
I am a little upset this morning... Now I understand how my sister feels. I figure if I blog, I will feel better and be calm when I have to make the phone call.
Because I have numerous friends that are military recruiters, I will try my best NOT to bash too hard, but I NEED to vent.
My niece is at the age now where recruiters are beating down her door... She has the dream package; awesome grades, member of student government, member of the FFA (I think this is the one, I know that she competes at rodeo's) and is pretty high up in terms of leadership for her high school ROTC. She is set to be Commander in her senior year.
She really wants to join the military and we are all in support of that, however, we think she would be better suited to go to college first and get a degree and then pursue a career in the military.
Here is where the problem lies... I am not going to disclose, it isn't my place, but the entire family knows that she will not qualify to join. No, nothing illegal ya'll. The recruiter came to the house the other day and blew smoke up both my sister and niece's proverbial behinds. He basically said that her ASVAB scores were good and he doesn't care what her grades are or what she has or has not done. He also stated that he doesn't need any form of documentation for her issues and they will see what the higher ups decide at MEPS. The instruction is very clear and we know she will not qualify. Basically the S.O.B. is wasting everyone's valuable time by sending her to MEPS. AND to top it off, because of him blowing smoke up my nieces behind, now her grades are slacking. She is throwing away other opportunities based upon a conversation with this recruiter.
If I were the recruiter who's work schedule is based on QUOTA would not want to send a very obvious NON-Qualifier down to MEPS. Clue me in, does he get credit either way. WTH?
Anyway, needless to say, I will be calling the Station Commander in a little bit to file a formal complaint. Hopefully, he has some suggestions for other options.
Wish me luck!
UPDATE:
I called the Commander of the recruiting station... Let's just say, there is going to be one very ticked off recruiter this afternoon.
I am just hoping that my niece doesn't decide to go through with submitting the medical stuff. I think she has a better chance of going to college, getting a degree and then go through AMED recruiting. Only time will tell. I love her and only want the best for her. I see this as a blessing in disguise.
Because I have numerous friends that are military recruiters, I will try my best NOT to bash too hard, but I NEED to vent.
My niece is at the age now where recruiters are beating down her door... She has the dream package; awesome grades, member of student government, member of the FFA (I think this is the one, I know that she competes at rodeo's) and is pretty high up in terms of leadership for her high school ROTC. She is set to be Commander in her senior year.
She really wants to join the military and we are all in support of that, however, we think she would be better suited to go to college first and get a degree and then pursue a career in the military.
Here is where the problem lies... I am not going to disclose, it isn't my place, but the entire family knows that she will not qualify to join. No, nothing illegal ya'll. The recruiter came to the house the other day and blew smoke up both my sister and niece's proverbial behinds. He basically said that her ASVAB scores were good and he doesn't care what her grades are or what she has or has not done. He also stated that he doesn't need any form of documentation for her issues and they will see what the higher ups decide at MEPS. The instruction is very clear and we know she will not qualify. Basically the S.O.B. is wasting everyone's valuable time by sending her to MEPS. AND to top it off, because of him blowing smoke up my nieces behind, now her grades are slacking. She is throwing away other opportunities based upon a conversation with this recruiter.
If I were the recruiter who's work schedule is based on QUOTA would not want to send a very obvious NON-Qualifier down to MEPS. Clue me in, does he get credit either way. WTH?
Anyway, needless to say, I will be calling the Station Commander in a little bit to file a formal complaint. Hopefully, he has some suggestions for other options.
Wish me luck!
UPDATE:
I called the Commander of the recruiting station... Let's just say, there is going to be one very ticked off recruiter this afternoon.
I am just hoping that my niece doesn't decide to go through with submitting the medical stuff. I think she has a better chance of going to college, getting a degree and then go through AMED recruiting. Only time will tell. I love her and only want the best for her. I see this as a blessing in disguise.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Mari Got Her Groove Back!!!
I am only on day three, but I feel like I have finally got my groove back.Losing my motivation sucked. I knew what I needed to do and how do get there, but for some reason a wall was stopping me from progressing.
I should not let the military be the leading factor in my decision to get fit, eat healthy and take better care of myself.
I am completely miserable when I do not work out. I have no energy and spend the day sleeping. I was seriously beginning to feel like a fat slob and I have not felt that way in years.
I was proud of what I had accomplished last year (Walked one 5K, Ran a 10K and completed the Frederick Half Marathon) and I hope to get there again in the near future.
I try to do a multitude of exercises when I work out. I do not want to get bored and I want to break up the monotony. I try to incorporate Yoga, Strength Training, Aerobics and Balance Games into my daily workouts. These, of course are all part of the Wii Fit Plus. I also like to do Zumba, I may not be coordinated, but, oh man what a workout.
Part of my issue was letting my back injury get the best of me. In actuality, I injured it 10 years ago and it was aggravated this last summer because of how hard I was pushing myself. It was an important push, which taught me a lot about myself. But, once the summer was over, I let everything fall to the wayside...
I recently came to the realization that I need to spend some time concentrating on me. No, that does not mean that I am going to stop taking care of everyone else, because, ah, well, let us be honest, there is no one else. My husband does his best, but he is the bread winner... Need I say more?
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Addictions SUCK!!!
I do not care what anyone says... We all have addictions, healthy or non.
As I was taking my shower a bit ago, I realized I gave up one addiction for another.
As stated in an earlier post, I quit smoking in January. YEAH!!! I have had one cigarette since then BOO! and regret it. Anyway, not my point. Many people, who shall remain nameless, mentioned my new addiction to me, of course I laughed it off. Sorry ya'll! I just was not ready to hear it.
In my defense, I do not have a job (which is now, no longer in my control, I will have to wait until we move) and when there is nothing else to do... I Facebook. I know there are plenty of other things I could be doing with my time (i.e. writing for Yahoo Contributor, Reading, Exercise, etc.), it is just going to take time to retrain my brain. Besides, I cannot give up everything at once.
As I was taking my shower a bit ago, I realized I gave up one addiction for another.
As stated in an earlier post, I quit smoking in January. YEAH!!! I have had one cigarette since then BOO! and regret it. Anyway, not my point. Many people, who shall remain nameless, mentioned my new addiction to me, of course I laughed it off. Sorry ya'll! I just was not ready to hear it.
In my defense, I do not have a job (which is now, no longer in my control, I will have to wait until we move) and when there is nothing else to do... I Facebook. I know there are plenty of other things I could be doing with my time (i.e. writing for Yahoo Contributor, Reading, Exercise, etc.), it is just going to take time to retrain my brain. Besides, I cannot give up everything at once.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
IT'S ON!!!
If I have learned anything over the last two-years... Take on ONE thing at a time.
Last year I attempted to quit smoking, diet and exercise all at once. I was successful, for a time... But then, when everything went south in my life, so did the smoking, diet and exercise.
In January, after my mom went back to Texas, I quit smoking, AGAIN. I had one, a few weeks later, a decision I regretted, but I will not dwell. It is nice to be able to breath again.
Since having children (X4), I have struggled with my weight. Something I cannot afford, being a member of the United States Navy. No matter how unrealistic I think their standards are, I still have to maintain them, more so now that I am a Chief.
I have finally come to a conclusion... everyone's needs, as usual, come before mine. NO MORE!
I do not care anymore who is home or watching... I am going to get back into the swing of working out. For now, I will settle with an indoor workout, this should warm me up until the weather gets a little warmer. Maybe this will help me strengthen, so once it is time to introduce the endurance, I can.
I am going to give myself a week or so, before I introduce diet into the mix. It will give me time to research which diet will work best for me, this time around. I am hoping to try something a little different this time. In the mean time, I will have to watch my serving size, fat, calories, etc.
Good Luck to Me!!!
Last year I attempted to quit smoking, diet and exercise all at once. I was successful, for a time... But then, when everything went south in my life, so did the smoking, diet and exercise.
In January, after my mom went back to Texas, I quit smoking, AGAIN. I had one, a few weeks later, a decision I regretted, but I will not dwell. It is nice to be able to breath again.
Since having children (X4), I have struggled with my weight. Something I cannot afford, being a member of the United States Navy. No matter how unrealistic I think their standards are, I still have to maintain them, more so now that I am a Chief.
I have finally come to a conclusion... everyone's needs, as usual, come before mine. NO MORE!
I do not care anymore who is home or watching... I am going to get back into the swing of working out. For now, I will settle with an indoor workout, this should warm me up until the weather gets a little warmer. Maybe this will help me strengthen, so once it is time to introduce the endurance, I can.
I am going to give myself a week or so, before I introduce diet into the mix. It will give me time to research which diet will work best for me, this time around. I am hoping to try something a little different this time. In the mean time, I will have to watch my serving size, fat, calories, etc.
Good Luck to Me!!!
Monday, February 28, 2011
And then there were more...
Checked the mail today...
Three more companies hooked me up with coupons.
$1.00 off any Cheer Product
(4) $.25 off any one Bumble Bee* Product
(2) $.50 off Heinz HomeStyle Gravy (any size, any variety)
(2) $.50 off Classico Sauce (any size, any variety)
(2) $.50 off any Bagel Bites Snack Product (any size, any variety)
This is so exciting.
What is even better... these manufacturer's coupons, or at least most of them have expiration dates that are later in the year, which means I can stock up right before we leave or once we arrive in Virginia Beach. The move is going to cost us enough...
Three more companies hooked me up with coupons.
$1.00 off any Cheer Product
(4) $.25 off any one Bumble Bee* Product
(2) $.50 off Heinz HomeStyle Gravy (any size, any variety)
(2) $.50 off Classico Sauce (any size, any variety)
(2) $.50 off any Bagel Bites Snack Product (any size, any variety)
This is so exciting.
What is even better... these manufacturer's coupons, or at least most of them have expiration dates that are later in the year, which means I can stock up right before we leave or once we arrive in Virginia Beach. The move is going to cost us enough...
Coupons, coupons and, OH YES, more COUPONS!!!
After unpacking last night and settling down on the couch, I glanced over at the desk and noticed a stack of envelopes and several packs of Chap Stick...
I concentrated on the Chap Stick for a bit and hoped if hubby purchased that much, he better have used a coupon. Yes, I know, one-track-mind. LOL!
When I confronted him, he stated, the Chap Stick, as well as the stack of envelopes came in the mail over the weekend for me. They were all coupons and samples. I guess my girlfriend was right... for every ten companies you e-mail, nine say NO and one will send coupons and possibly samples.
WOOHOO! Score!
Along with the five or six tubes of Chap Stick, I received the coupons listed below:
(3) $.55 off Brawny Paper Towels
$1.00 off any Midol Product (16 CT. or Larger)
$1.00 off any Phillps Product
$1.00 off any One A Day Adult or Teen Multivitamin Product
$1.00 off any Flintstones or One A Day Kids Multivitamin Product
$1.00 off any Alka-Seltzer Plus Product
$1.00 off any Alka-Seltzer Product
$1.00 off any Alever-D Product
$1.00 off any 20 CT. or larger Aleve Product
$1.00 off any Citracal Product
$5.00 off the purchase of A1CNow Selfcheck at home A1C System
$1.00 off any Bayer Aspirin or Heart Health Advantage Product
FREE Bayer Contour or Breeze 2 Blood Glucose Meter when you purchase Bayer's Countour or Breeze 2 Test Strips
(3) $.35 off Seneca 100% Pure Apple Juice 64 oz. Bottle or 46 oz. Can
(2) $1.00 off any One packaga of AllWhites or Better'n Eggs
(6) $1.00 off any product from Johnson & Johnson
$.50 off One Argo or Kingsford's Corn Starch
$1.00 off Benadryl Topical Product
$1.00 off any Benadryl Product
(3) $.25 off any Blistex Lip Care Product
$1.00 off any 2 boxes of Bigelow Tea, Green Tea, Herb Tea, or Decaffeinated Tea
(2) $.55 off Bush's Baked Beans or Bush's Grillin' Beans any size, any variety
Try One (1) Alouette Cheese, FREE
(2) $1 off any One (1) Alouette Cheese Product
$.25 off any package of Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables or Fruit
(3) $1.00 off any Amy's Delicious Organic Frozen Foods
(5) $.55 off any Amy's Grocery Items
$.75 off Amy's Cakes
$.75 off Amy's Hot Cereal Bowl
$.75 off Amy's Lasagna
$.75 off any Amy's Kids Meals
$.75 off any Amy's Pot Pies
$.75 off any Amy's Light & Lean Meals
(2) $1.00 off any One (1) Armour Retail Product
$.25 off any Celeste Frozen Pizza for One
I concentrated on the Chap Stick for a bit and hoped if hubby purchased that much, he better have used a coupon. Yes, I know, one-track-mind. LOL!
When I confronted him, he stated, the Chap Stick, as well as the stack of envelopes came in the mail over the weekend for me. They were all coupons and samples. I guess my girlfriend was right... for every ten companies you e-mail, nine say NO and one will send coupons and possibly samples.
WOOHOO! Score!
Along with the five or six tubes of Chap Stick, I received the coupons listed below:
(3) $.55 off Brawny Paper Towels
$1.00 off any Midol Product (16 CT. or Larger)
$1.00 off any Phillps Product
$1.00 off any One A Day Adult or Teen Multivitamin Product
$1.00 off any Flintstones or One A Day Kids Multivitamin Product
$1.00 off any Alka-Seltzer Plus Product
$1.00 off any Alka-Seltzer Product
$1.00 off any Alever-D Product
$1.00 off any 20 CT. or larger Aleve Product
$1.00 off any Citracal Product
$5.00 off the purchase of A1CNow Selfcheck at home A1C System
$1.00 off any Bayer Aspirin or Heart Health Advantage Product
FREE Bayer Contour or Breeze 2 Blood Glucose Meter when you purchase Bayer's Countour or Breeze 2 Test Strips
(3) $.35 off Seneca 100% Pure Apple Juice 64 oz. Bottle or 46 oz. Can
(2) $1.00 off any One packaga of AllWhites or Better'n Eggs
(6) $1.00 off any product from Johnson & Johnson
$.50 off One Argo or Kingsford's Corn Starch
$1.00 off Benadryl Topical Product
$1.00 off any Benadryl Product
(3) $.25 off any Blistex Lip Care Product
$1.00 off any 2 boxes of Bigelow Tea, Green Tea, Herb Tea, or Decaffeinated Tea
(2) $.55 off Bush's Baked Beans or Bush's Grillin' Beans any size, any variety
Try One (1) Alouette Cheese, FREE
(2) $1 off any One (1) Alouette Cheese Product
$.25 off any package of Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables or Fruit
(3) $1.00 off any Amy's Delicious Organic Frozen Foods
(5) $.55 off any Amy's Grocery Items
$.75 off Amy's Cakes
$.75 off Amy's Hot Cereal Bowl
$.75 off Amy's Lasagna
$.75 off any Amy's Kids Meals
$.75 off any Amy's Pot Pies
$.75 off any Amy's Light & Lean Meals
(2) $1.00 off any One (1) Armour Retail Product
$.25 off any Celeste Frozen Pizza for One
I have the best husband... Or do I?
Once a month I have an obligation to serve my country... This last weekend was one of those.
My family and I live about four hours from the drill site, which means spending the entire weekend away from home. I do not mind this at all. My only issue... prior to departure, not only do I have to ensure I have everything I need, but I have to make sure hubby has everything he needs to keep himself (and the kids) occupied and out of trouble. LOL!
I typically depart on Thursday evenings and return on Sunday evening...
Thursday afternoon, after taking care of the daily list of appointments, I had to sit down and plan out the two-week menu, make a shopping list, dig out the coupons and finally make a list of which stores he needs to visit for weekly specials. Yes, it is a lot of work and quite time consuming, but worth it when it comes to the bottom line.
What was accomplished while I was gone, was more than I ever expected.
I was so proud of him... Friday, while the kids were at school, he did all the grocery shopping or at least what he could in the time allotted.
Saturday, he and the kids cleaned house, cleaned up the yard, which included all the broken branches from all the storms (the ones the neighbor kids insisted on dragging out again)... Oh well!
Sunday, he and the kids ventured out again to the other supermarket for the remaining items on the shopping list.
With the exception of buying four "DOUBLE" packs of newspapers (he was only supposed to purchase two "DOUBLES")... He saved about $23 and kept us within budget.
I think our next goal... Drop the budget by $40/month.
F.Y.I. I am a lucky wife!!! My husband cooks, cleans, laundry, grocery shops and just about anything else that I hate doing.
My family and I live about four hours from the drill site, which means spending the entire weekend away from home. I do not mind this at all. My only issue... prior to departure, not only do I have to ensure I have everything I need, but I have to make sure hubby has everything he needs to keep himself (and the kids) occupied and out of trouble. LOL!
I typically depart on Thursday evenings and return on Sunday evening...
Thursday afternoon, after taking care of the daily list of appointments, I had to sit down and plan out the two-week menu, make a shopping list, dig out the coupons and finally make a list of which stores he needs to visit for weekly specials. Yes, it is a lot of work and quite time consuming, but worth it when it comes to the bottom line.
What was accomplished while I was gone, was more than I ever expected.
I was so proud of him... Friday, while the kids were at school, he did all the grocery shopping or at least what he could in the time allotted.
Saturday, he and the kids cleaned house, cleaned up the yard, which included all the broken branches from all the storms (the ones the neighbor kids insisted on dragging out again)... Oh well!
Sunday, he and the kids ventured out again to the other supermarket for the remaining items on the shopping list.
With the exception of buying four "DOUBLE" packs of newspapers (he was only supposed to purchase two "DOUBLES")... He saved about $23 and kept us within budget.
I think our next goal... Drop the budget by $40/month.
F.Y.I. I am a lucky wife!!! My husband cooks, cleans, laundry, grocery shops and just about anything else that I hate doing.
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