I can't believe that it's been so long since I've posted on this site. I have missed you all tremendously!

I figured I better pop in and let you know that you are all in my thoughts and constantly. So much has happend since my last post, so let's see if I can get the most important things in this posting.

I finished off last semester with two A's and a B. My GPA was 3.75 so I made the Dean's list

Vegas was great in December! Met my mother there and a few friends. We had a blast, it just didn't last long enough.

My oldest DS has left the nest. (Don't know if I mentioned that to you Noni, Diverchick and Moonmab.) He moved out right before Thanksgiving. Trying to spread his wings, figure things out I guess. He seems happy and healthy so that makes me happy. And he's still on the Island so I don't worry much.

School has started again, we're in our third week. The first two weeks we were busy frontloading (they cram our brains until its ready to explode!). We are now in first week of clinicals and that's what reminds me why I'm doing what I'm doing. I absolutely love the hands on patient care! There's nothing I ever want to do besides this. Last semester we worked geriatrics (which I absolutely love by the way). This semester we are working med/surg, OB and pediatrics. (Who am I kidding? I love it all!!!) I got to spend a career shadow day in the ER at the end of last semester. Being that I'd like to be an ER Nurse, that was a treat! Loved it, loved it, loved it!

I'm going to Japan in March (again sorry if I forgot to mention it). There are a few of us Nursing students going as a 2 credit semester class. It's one week in Nagasaki Japan. We are going to see the hospital that they built for the atomic bombing victims and observe how they perform their patient care. It's expensive but DH is making sure I get there. He's still the gem he always was

Wow! I am almost 8 months post op now. I have absolutely no regrets! I have healed well and am doing good with my Premarin. It's amazing that there is no more pain. And I do not miss Aunt Flo one bit.

I hate to make this so short since it's been so long since I've posted but I have a careplan due by midnight, a paper due for my outpatient clinicals, a journal for my issues class, a issue paper outline AND a presentation for Monday, not to forget studying for an OB test on Monday. I'm tired just thinking about it all. I guess it'll be worth it in when it's over.

to you all!!!!!!!!

Aloha ladies!

Just a quick pop in. It's almost midnight and I am exhausted! I'm getting into a better groove with school although it sure is an awful lot of work. It's very rewarding though! I had my first NURS 153 exam today. Missed an A by 1/2 a point but I'm excited that I did so well. I think I may dispute one question because every point counts LOL.

I just finished working on a major project (finished for the night anyway). I'm starting to feel sleep deprived....yawn....

Love to you all!!!

I want to apologize yet again for not being online. Unfortunately, I won't be able to get on much at all these days. Right now, I should be buried in books and reading. My DH reminds me that I should be on this site encouraging princesses in waiting because I have been blessed with a complete and healthy recovery. I feel wonderful! He also keeps asking me how everything is going with my sisters. He does understand that even though I have the greatest respect, love and admiration for all of you ladies, that my workload with school is extremely overwhelming these days.

I barely get online these days except to check my most important emails and do school research. I feel so disconnected from a major lifeline it's sad :-( I do support the site and others as much as I can by spreading the word verbally to everybody I meet as well as Physicians regarding this wonderful site! It truly is a God send and although I can't help the Princesses in Waiting through the forums, I hope all will understand.

Update on my trip to California. It was sad and it was difficult but I truly needed the healing that it brought me. I have peace in my heart for going however, I have had a difficult time with the loss of my brother. I have not really accepted that he is gone yet and I'm afraid that when I allow myself to grieve, that it will hit me square between the eyes. My Nursing Instructor has had a tremendous loss as well in the last few months and we had a little chat. She was supportive and said that if I have difficulties in my clinicals and just need to step back for a moment, that it's ok. That made me feel better because I'd hate to fall apart in front of a client. She also mentioned that it would be beneficial to talk to the Hospice people which I definitely have every intention of doing. I could use the guidance and support.

My brothers ashes have arrived here and I will scatter them in the Ocean, I just don't know when or if I will have the strength to do it. That means that I will have to let him go and I don't know if I am ready for that. Please pray for me sisters because I sure could use it.

Being in my first semester of Nursing is a LOT of work. It's not difficult per se but it is overwhelming the amount of projects and reading they give. But it is soooo exciting and interesting! Also, we are working on math modules and if we do not get 100% on every single module, we get kicked out of the program because we can't administer medication. I'm sure that won't happen, they give us practice and tutoring sessions...whew.... And with my second semester of Anatomy and Physiology, I'm just completely overwhelmed. I know I'll be fine but it's only the second week of school and I still have to find my "groove".

I love you all lots and truly miss you!! If any of you ladies would like my personal email, please pm me. I don't check it as regular as before but I do check it. I sure would love to keep in contact with those of you that I feel so close to.

Love to you all and I'm sorry I am not able to get caught up on anyone. My prayers are with you all that you are all healthy, happy and doing well!!!! HUGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CAUTION AHEAD - SAD STORY

I'm sorry I'm just floating through here again. I have so much to say and not too much time to say it in.

First, I'm doing well. My RLS seems better (haven't taken the meds in a few nights). My visit with friends from the Mainland was great! We saw so many sites and I hardly took any photos....duhhhh!!! Afterwards, I thought, shoot I could have taken more scenic shots for you ladies.

I picked up all 7 of the books I need for ONE class of Nursing. They weigh almost as much as me I think. I also got my Nursing Uniform and Nursing Patches.

I had my CPR class today and that was the last requirement for my Nursing courses. I had to make sure I went for that reason AND so I wouldn't lose my mind. Right now I have to keep completely busy and here's why:

I lost one of my dear brothers yesterday. I got a phone call at 6AM from my family saying that my brother was in critical care at the Hospital and that they didn't expect him to make it through the night. The doctors called the family together to say their goodbyes.

My mother woke up and went to check on him. He just had his birthday on Friday and turned a young 45. When she went into the room, she saw him take his last breath and she called 911. They performed CPR and had to shock him twice. He was in a coma and they said that even if he were to come out of it, he would be brain damaged. Eventually, his vitals kept getting weaker and the doctors finally pronounced him brain dead and suggested to my family to let him go. The only thing that was keeping him alive was the life support.

My sister put the phone to his ear so that I could tell him goodbye. They also kept letting him know how much I love him. My brother drank himself to death but even though eventually you know something will sneak up and happen you never truly prepare for it. Saying goodbye on the phone was so hard and it's not the same but I was grateful to my sister for doing that for me.

They took him off life support and he passed away at 7:15PM California time. The funeral is Friday so I will be flying to the Mainland to attend that. I can't let myself think about it too much because I think I'll lose my mind. There are 11 of us siblings and we haven't lost anyone until now. so you see, I have to keep busy.

My bosses are being AWESOME as usual and one of my bosses is even making my flights for me. Unfortunately, I'll be making this trip without DH and he's the one that keeps me together. I'll be doing a lot of praying to get through this. I will check in when I get back.

I'm sorry that I'm finally on and not able to get caught up on anyone. My prayers and thoughts are always with you all and I hope all is well!!! HUGS

I really must try to get online in the evening I think. I generally try to get online in the morning but I'll have better luck at night.

Birky ~ thanks for the tip on the CPR class. The last time I took a course was a couple of years ago but it was from the American Red Cross. Bless those people but their CPR is WAY out dated. This time around I will be taking from the American Heart Association and it's been years since I've had their course so I know there will be lots of new stuff! Doc cleared me as of August 1st so I'm hoping I'll be ok. I'm sure I'll be sore afterwards!

Diver ~ I will definitely try not to use my abs. I think I'll let the Instructur know that I recently had major abdominal surgery. Maybe he/she will show a little compassion. Hopefully I do ok anyway! I'll let you all know.

Friendangel ~ Oh, yeah the brain rest must happen! Hope you get some soon :-)

KJ ~ Thank you so much for the Birthday Wishes!

Noni ~ Vegas is a 5.5 hour flight from Honolulu. We take a flight from here to Honolulu and that's about 35 minutes including taxiing the runway, etc. Then we jump on a charter flight to Vegas. It's not too bad but it is kind of difficult to sit still for so long. Our Island is small and we don't spend that much time in the car or confined to a small space. But overall it's not bad.

I have been taking this med for RLS and it's AWFUL!! It has helped my RLS but two nights ago I was hallucinating and yes ladies I only took ONE pill. I saw things flying on the ceiling (bugs and triangular designs). I cannot believe that this is the "mildest" stuff that my doc can put me on for RLS. I hate it! I have not, nor do I do drugs. I've heard of peoples descriptions of hallucinogenic drugs and I'm thinking that seeing things that aren't there falls into a hallucinogenic category even though my doctor told me it's NON-hallucinogenic. I'm going to have to check the side effects online. It just doesn't seem right. I'm on Tizanidine which is generic for Zanaflex. Anybody hear of it?

My friend and her family will be here tomorrow I'm almost done with their leis! It should be good fun!

Sorry so short but I better get those leis dones! HUGS To you all!!!!!!!

I'm sorry I haven't been online much. I read all of your comments and just want to reiterate how much you all mean to me!! My eyes teared with all the kindness of your words!! Thank you all for being such great friends!!!

All my Nursing School requirements are done except my CPR class on Aug 7th and drug testing for the State Hospitals whenever they call. I am so excited and I'm finding more of my classmates will be in the Program with me so that makes me feel good.

I've been making ribbon leis for a friend of mine and her DDs and DH. They will be here next Tuesday. I haven't seen her in 12 1/2 years so it's going to be great! I have two more leis to finish and then I'm all set.

I've been so busy doing other things that I haven't gotten much studying done....sigh....that's ok though, I still have a few weeks and my brain needed the rest. Once school starts August 20th, there will be no real breaks until I finish school in May 2009. I am so excited!!!

I was going to be a good girl and had intended on spending a few minutes on my gazelle today. My washing machine has other ideas tho. It started to get off balance and I could hear it from my room so I went running down the hall just in time before it snapped the water line and pulled the electric plug...sigh again....I guess the gazelle will have to wait until later as now my insides are still shaking.

DH and I are back to Vegas in December for a few days. Did I tell you all that he won a trip to Vegas for two? He won the trip after we had already paid for our trip in June so this is a bonus trip for us. I'm hoping to lose weight before then so I can feel more comfortable in my clothing.

I'm feeling better lately. I had my 4 1/2 week post-op check and doc cleared me for all activities. On a personal note, I am pleased to say that I'm not broken in any way LOL.

Love to you all!!!!!!

Well today's my birthday. My DSs woke me with hugs. My youngest wished me happy birthday before he proceeded to call me dust in the wind LOL. How rude! Just kidding. We have pretty good sense of humors. DH is taking me to a hotel with a couple of friends.

Sorry I haven't been online lately. As for here, we're FINALLY getting a little more rain. Sorry ladies, wish I could tell you it's green and lush but my yard is dead. We definitely need the rain. It's supposed to rain tonight. Hooray!

I took the muscle relaxer for my RLS the first night and like the bright person that I am, I took two instead of one first then upping it to two. I had no idea the stuff was so potent! Needless to say I have never felt so drugged in my life! My husband said I was white as a sheet and it really scared him. I had a hard time even walking to the bathroom. I had to hold onto the wall. I didn't realize that it would take a few days for the meds to work. DUH!!! Anyway, it didn't work that night and DH said I was tossing and turning like I never had surgery at all. My insides have been pretty sore since then but finally getting better.

I spoke to my PCP and my labs came back good. My blood & iron levels are all fine, thyroid's fine, etc. He informed me to take ONE tablet a night and so far it's been working for me. I asked him when I can get off the medication and he assured me that it's non-addictive and it's the mildest of what he can give me so he suggested that I finish the bottle and then see how I feel. He also assured me that surely my doc stitched me well and that I didn't have to worry about whether or night I busted any stitches inside that night of terror. That made me feel better.

I have a few errands to run so I gotta go. I'm sorry I haven''t been able to catch up on anybody this past week. I'm just about done with my requirements for Nursing hooray!!!! Just CPR left and I'm good to go

Love to you all and have a wonderful weekend!!! HUGS

Hi everyone. I went to see my PCP today because my GYN didn't think that my restless leg syndrome was due to hormones. After looking at my labs and op report, he saw that I lost a bit of blood during my surgery (not majorly) and that I was anemic when I left the Hospital. That's a cause for RLS so I will be getting checked on my iron levels soon. He did prescribe me a muscle relaxant to try to see if that helps. I'm hoping it is due to being anemic so that I can take more iron or something and it'll go away. I cannot imagine having to deal with this forever. My sugar is slightly higher too but since I've lost another 2 lbs (total of 10 since surgery), and I'm not taking in caffeine or sweets, Doc seems to think that'll do the trick. There is a lot of Diabetes in my immediate family so I really have to watch that!

My GYN did say I can take two of my estrogen pills and hopefully it will relieve the headaches. We'll see.

I also think my internal stitches are finally coming out slowly.

So for the most part, I'm grateful to not be having any worse problems than I am. Thank you all again for your support!

Oh, I've always wanted to work ER or Labor & Delivery. I guess we'll see what I'm interested in after clinicals. I did take clinicals for an Ambulatory Nurse Assistant training that I did previously. Of course that didn't encompass any L & D or ER since it was in a clinic setting not hospital.

Have a wonderful weekend!!!! HUGS

Thank you all for your support and comments. I'm sitting here teary eyed right now after reading them. I can't tell you how much I appreciate all of you!!!!!!!!!!! I have not been taking pain medication because for the most part, I get a little sore but nothing unbearable and I get the swelly belly. (I think I better start using my swelly belly band more often.) But I read on a medical website that some of the medication used for Restless Leg Syndrome is Ibuprofen and Percocet. Well the first night, I did not know this so I didn't take anything because I wasn't in pain. After doing a little research I took a Ibuprofen two nights ago because it's the mildest of what I have at home. Well, it didn't work! And there was no way I was going to go through another sleepless night so I took a percocet last night and I slept like a baby. In fact it's a quarter to 11AM here and I just woke up 15 minutes ago. I sure needed that sleep.

I know I've been talking a lot about Nursing School so here's some info that I've left out: In the Fall of 99 and Spring of 00 I attened our local community college full-time for a year. There were a lot of circumstances that contributed to it but basically financially I could not finish my education at that time so I had to drop. I am currently working as a bookkeeper so I thought, hey, why waste one full year of hard work (I was doing my gen ed plus some classes that are for the Nursing Program). I decided to go back and enroll to get an Accounting degree. I'm good at it but it's not really what I would have picked to spend the rest of my life doing. Well, my Guidance Counselor talked me back into going into school and being on the wait list for Nursing again. After discussing it with DH, we decided that this was the way we'd go. The only thing I've ever wanted to do since I was in 6th grade was to be a Nurse.

This past school year I have gone part time and got Microbiology and my first Semester of Anatomy and Physiology out of the way (also part of the Nursing program). The only two classes I have left that I CAN take in regards to an RN Associates Degree is the 2nd semester of Anatomy & Physiology and Pharmacology (except for the two years of NURS courses). I was scheduled to start the program in Fall of 2008 which means that I would have gotten these last two classes out of the way, but I am fortunate enough to finally get a seat in the Nursing Program earlier and I start August 20th of this year!

So for my first semester, I will be taking the NURS 153 which includes classroom and clinicals and I will also finish my second semester of A & P. Pharmacology my counselor says I can take any time as it is not required until the second year of the Nursing Program. I'll probably take it the second semester of the Nursing Program (online). We will be doing clinicals for the first semester at a local Hospital about 20 minutes away from me. It'll be hard to get from there to class but it's doable. We might also be doing clinicals at the Hospital I used to work at and where I had my surgery which is only a couple of minutes away from my house so that's convenient.

Anyways, that's my school story

I did call my docs office yesterday and he wasn't in so I'm waiting for him to call me back today.

Again, thank you all so very much for your support! I was really worried about my recovery process taking a turn for the worse. I feel better now! Love to you all!!!

Ok. I feel like *&(% the past couple of nights. I've been doing well, but the past two nights I feel like I've taken huge steps backwards. The night before last I was up most of the night crying and completely regretting my surgery. I started having restless leg syndrome but it was mild until two nights ago, then I couldn't lay still long enough to sleep. I was up pacing the floor, stretching my legs, etc. DH got up and massaged my legs and then I was finally able to drift off to sleep. Last night was slightly better but DH had to get up again to massage my legs before I could go back to sleep. Poor guy! He's not getting much sleep either.

I was reading on another site that hormones can affect restless leg syndrome. I figure I'm finally running out of my hormone reserve that my body had and maybe I'll need to have doc up my estrogen dosage. I'll give them a call today because I cannot stand another night of this!! I feel like I am going absolutely beserk!

I start school in the Fall, I'm off for the Summer (there were no classes offered during the Summer that I needed to take) So right now I'm getting my requirements ready to be able to be admitted to the Nursing Program. It involves BLS CPR training and immunizations, criminal background check, finger printing, etc. etc. I'm doing things at a slow pace but I'm feeling overwhelmed.

Sorry to vent but I know that I can here and that I'll get the support and good advice that I need and right now I definitely need it!! HELP!!!!!! HUGS to you all, I pray all is well with everyone!

Hi everyone. I've been so busy trying to get my FAFSA form filled out and my requirements done I haven't been able to get online to Hystersisters and catch up on everyone lately. Sorry!

Yesterday was my first day driving. I went to my post-op visit at 8:30AM. Doc doesn't usually do an internal but because I had that strange sensation decided to check. 1st up was the dreaded speculum. Owwwww. He didn't open it thoroughly thank goodness. No blood clots, everything he saw was fine. Then the pelvic. That was fine too. So I'm top shape He was really pleased with my progress. He even helped me with my forms for the Nursing Program which was a HUGE help!! Not to mention saved me some money. I'm allowed to start a little more and I got the ok to use my Gazelle. He just said to take it slow and listen to my body.

Oldest DS was with me all day. I had to go get my first TB test (2 step series). I'll go back Thursday for results and then go in again on Monday. Another requirement for Nursing. Now to get all my immunization records in order.

I had my first outing to Walmart for much needed items. I was pooped by the end of the day but it felt wonderful to get out! I am resting this morning. Sorry ladies but I gotta run. Too much to do to prepare for school. But I am doing it online for the most part so don't worry I'm being good. HUGS to you all!!!!!

Aloha everyone! I did call my docs office but he was out for the day. I'm expecting a call soon. Thanks for all the advice!

Well, I am two weeks post op today and feeling GREAT for the most part. Did have an off day on Monday but that's to be expected right? I even was able to shave my legs last night It feels soo good!!!

My tummy is still a little numb but it's healing nicely. DH still won't let me do anything around the house so I'm going bonkers!! I am studying ahead for next semester since I will be in the Nursing Program and taking my second semester of A & P. I'm sure I'll do fine though. I am sooooo excited!!!!!!

OK, I know everybody is different but for you ladies who no longer have their ovaries, when did surgical menopause start for you? I feel exactly like myself and it's wonderful!! I'm just afraid that the menopause will finally hit me when I'm not expecting it.

Love to you all!!!!!!

Beware! This may be

This morning I got up to use the restroom around 6AM. I went pee and then I felt this movement in my vagina. It was strange and the only way that I can describe it is like maybe a blod clot was getting ready to come out. Nothing came out and I haven't been bleeding at all so I thought that was strange. Now it feels like there's something in my vagina. It has me a little nervous. I feel fine so it must be nothing right? I don't have my doctors appointment until July 2nd for my supposed two-week post op check. I'm not sure if I should call my docs office or jus wait it out. Any thoughts?

We had a couple of close friends visit yesterday. That was so nice because I feel like I'm getting cabin fever! We all sat around in our bedroom enjoying the nice cold AC that my hubby put in when I was in the hospital. It was nice because it was HOT yesterday!

DH has made sure that I'm not doing ANYTHING! He did the laundry this weekend and he didn't even want to let me help fold clothes. He said, "the doctor said you're not to do anything for two weeks". Well, I told him I AM allowed to fold the laundry! And I was sitting down doing it so he finally caved and let me help

My bowels are working on a daily basis! Hooray! I am taking my small dose of premarin as well. I feel exactly like myself which is great! The only thing is I started with a slight headache yesterday evening and it feels like it's coming back right now. Hope I'm not catching anything!

My oldest DS that has graduated high school recently has been offered a great job. He's not sure about college yet but this job is a networking type of job and they're willing to train him and the good thing is that they also pay for college/technical training courses! So hopefully he does well with them and end up with an education too! In the meantime, he's been busy around the house, cleaning windows woohoo!!! And doing yard! And other things as well.

I hope everyone has a blessed week!!! HUGE HUGS to you all!!

Wow...today is one week post-op. I cannot believe how fast it's gone. You ladies are right too, waiting was the worst part!!! For the most part, I am feeling great!!!! I guess I better go give some support to the pre-op ladies in waiting. I know I never could have made it without all of your support and the responses I got on my preop forums.

Birkylady ~ No farting!! But you're right, what they don't know ;-) Fortunately, I've been passing gas just fine, it's the bowels that are still taking a little longer to kick in.

Diverchick ~ I'm finally feeling regular again body temp wise. I didn't have a fever that I know of. Maybe the premarin is helping. Not sure just yet as it's only been a few days since I've been taking it.

KJ7440 ~ I wanted to dance after my first BM but sad to say, I'm now waiting for the 2nd one. Maybe today

t1gger ~ Thanks for your well wishes!

Spiritmaiden ~ Thank you too for the well wishes and I am doing a lot of resting.

Moonmab ~ Wow, that would have drove me nuts! My DH bought me a vegetable laxative which worked overnight. Unfortunately I had to take it again last night. Hopefully I'll have lift off today LOL.

Noni ~ I have been being a good girl LOL. I'm taking my meds because it's definitely not worth being a martyr! But for the most part I am feeling pretty darned good.

Briska.uk ~ come on over! And thanks for the tip on the loo!

cow32323 ~ There are things that need to be done but I am getting rest! Thanks!!

My love to you all!!!!!

Hello everyone! Thanks for all the support! You'd all kill me if you saw me yesterday! Thought I was I was feeling good during the day except for the gas so I decided I wasn't going to take my pain meds. I WILL NOT do that again!!!!!! By 8PM I was in PAIN so I took my meds. I know better but I was in a hurry to get better. I know I need rest and my body needs time. I can hear all of you scolding me now :-)

The gas pains were horrible even though I'm walking frequently and I took Gas-X but DH brought me a vegetable laxative last night and this morning was but finally everything has moved . My stomach was getting nauseated the past couple of nights so I wasn't sure if it was because of not having BM's or not. DH bought me some dry crackers to take too so that has helped.

When I was in the hospital, my body swole up pretty good the first night. Those compression sock things were actually tight on my legs. But then I was peeing like a racehorse so I think I got everything out LOL. But my back and the back of my head feels hot and burning and that's continued off and on since the first night. Is that hormones? I get really hot sometimes and then I get chilled. I'm assuming it's my body regulating itself but is it surgical menopause? I'll be checking out more of the hormone forums etc. but wanted your input as well.

Well, I'm going to sleep a little. Love and HUGS to you all!!!!!!!!!!

Well, I'm more awake today. I had a great nights sleep! It beats getting up every 2 hours to go pee. I stayed pretty calm the morning of my hyster. We reported to the OR at 8:30AM. I requested one Nurse to do my IV, she always gets it one shot! Luckily she was there. Surgery was supposed to start at 10AM but we were waiting for the Doc. Didn't actually go in until about 11AM. Husband and DS kissed me bye and off we went.

The OR Nurse held my hand while they put me under and my Doc had his hand on my other arm. I felt like I was in great hands! We cracked a few jokes, etc. and then lights out! Next thing I knew, I was awaken in the OR and then moved to recovery. I was in a lot of pain! The recovery nurse kept me in recovery as long as it took to control may pain before sending me upstairs. She was awesome! She stroked my hair and held my hand and was constantly by my side. She even changed my pump from Morphine which wasn't helping to Dilaudid, pure bliss :-). If she handn't controlled my pain first, I would have been in for a rough night. But since she did a good job, I felt great! I wanted to get up to walk that night, but being that I was still hooked up, that didn't go over well LOL.

During the night, my legs swole pretty bad, I guess from all the fluids, so the compression socks bruised my legs a tiny bit but they were off the next morning, the catheter was out and they capped my IV. I was up and peeing in no time! I continued to pee at least every two hours for the next 36 hours. DH spent the last two nights in the hospital with me. Poor man couldn't sleep, because I kept getting him up to get me up! He was a trooper!!!!

They took my pump away :-( and then started me on percocet with seemed to work fine. I did quit a bit of walking and they kept reminding me that I just had major surgery, take it easy! But they were smiling and happy to see that I was doing so well. All of the Nurses were absolutely wonderful! I was completely taken care of.

The swelly belly band sure helped the first day of walking. It's always hardest getting up the first time. YIKES!!! But walking has become better, and I was able to sleep through the night only waking once and I didn't have to get up to pee!! I started taking Premarin 0.625mg today, I guess we'll see how it goes. But overall, I am so being pampered by DH and DS's!

I keep dozing off and on so I'm getting lots of rest, but I was dying to get on here to let you all know how it went! I'll try to post again tomorrow! I'm behind on what's happening with everyone but know that I love you all very much and couldn't have done it without you!!! THANK YOU ALL!!!!!

Hi all my sisters! I came home from the castle today. Everthing went wonderful!! I couldn't believe how well things actually went. DH even put an AC in my room before coming home. I'm super tired from the percocet but wanted to take a quick one to let you know how much I appreciate all your prayers and thoughts!!! It sure helped!!!!!! I'll try to get on soon to let you all know everything, but for now, know that I'm doing fine!

Thanks Moonmab for catching that. No, I go tomorrow. I should be home on Sunday if all goes well. I was in such a hurry to go to the store I didn't even catch it The Tournament of Kings show was incredible!!! We were in the front row and they really do duel each other, it's not like those fake stunt shows. It was great!

It's amazing that today I feel rather calm. Not quite sure why but I'm grateful! I guess, I can't wait until it's over. I just hope I'm ok in the morning. That's when I'll really start panicking I think. All I know is I could not have made this journey without all of my sisters here!! Thank you all so much and I'll try to post when I get home from the castle.

Good night sisters!!

Boy did I miss everyone! We made a deposit in Vegas but we sure did have a lot of fun!!!! The dinner show was great and we were dancing in the street at the Fremont light show! It was great.

Oh, I missed the phone call yesterday but I got a message from my school counselor and there is a seat in the Nursing Program for me this year! My only concern is if I'll be able to physically handle it. School starts August 20th so that gives me 2 months to recoup, but I'm wondering how tired I will be Either way, DH and I have decided that no matter what, I'll have to try. I may not get a third chance LOL!

Well, just wanted to post a quick one. I'm off to the store, forgot to buy waterproof tape and saran wrap so I can bathe when I come home from the castle tomorrow. My big day is almost upon me and I'm feeling ok for the moment. Don't know how I'll be feeling later though! I'm sure I'll be on the rest of the day once I get my errands done! LOVE and HUGS to you all!!!!!! Without you ladies I couldn't have come this far!!

Well, a friend of ours came over to fix the plumbing. He did a quick fix on the pipe that was broken so that we would have water. The leaking pipe was the hot water pipe to our washing machine. We can live without that for a little while. The bad news is, after all was said and done, DH noticed yet ANOTHER leak! This one coming from the driveway. So, we had a nice hot (too hot) shower and shut the water off for the night...sighhhh....at least we can turn on the water for showering, etc. We just opted to turn it off because the leak wastes water and we are very conservative about that. It's been dry this year for us and summer hasn't even hit full force so I'm sure we'll have a drought.

Our family lives directly behind us so we're not worried about the boys. They can always go over there to shower, etc. And they know how to turn on the main water anyways so I know they'll do fine. I believe they will be starting on the repair today. Hopefully he won't have to bust up too much cement and it'll be an easy fix so that way we can just leave the water on.

Because we were so preoccupied with leaking pipes yesterday, we didn't get a chance to do our grocery shopping for the DSs that will be home. So today, I will leave work early, do the shopping, go home, pack and do some laundry.

The good news is tomorrow is Vegas!! I'm sure this will be my last journal until I return so I wanted to let everyone know that I love you all and couldn't have made it this far without you!! I will be thinking of you all while I'm gone. Don't know how I'll do without my sisters!

Noni, we did take lots of pictures at graduation. I still have to sit and sort through them. It seems like there isn't enough time for anything right now, but I know I'll get lots of that after I become a

I have been trying to get a journal entry in but keep getting interrupted darnit!

Update on DSs graduation...it was GREAT!!!! I almost started crying before they even came into the stadium. I could hear all of them whooping and yelling and being so excited! We were so surprised that they gave the families a very substantial amount of time with the kids before they bussed them off to their project graduation night. Usually, the ceremony is LONG and they hustle the kids out rather quickly. Wish you were all here to have seen it...it was AWESOME!!!!

Last night we had a major pipe leak. Poor DH took a and thought something was wrong with the water heater...he went out back and bingo! Water shooting everywhere. Well, DS and I both had a very quick but very very COLD shower as well. We fortunately have a few water containers that we use for camping, the beach, etc. so we filled those up and use them to wash dishes and refill the toilet. I had to remember to grab two cups full of water this morning to wash hands and brush teeth. Well, at least the electricity's still on

One more day of work....yeahhhhhh!!!!!! And Vegas, here we come! Hope all of you have a blessed day!!!

Today I give a to DS! Graduating High School!!! I'm so proud of him! I know I'm going to be a big mess! Better not wear makeup

Got my swelly belly band today...oooohhh...nice!! I'll let you all know how it works :-)

Love to all my sisters! Have a wonderful weekend if I don't get a chance to "chat" with you all!

Tomorrow's DS's Graduation!

One week from today I will be in Vegas

Two weeks from today I will be a

OK, senility has definitely kicked in... so if I responded already, please forgive me

Mei ~ don't worry about being MIA, I seem to be MIA more often than not I'll definitely keep you all posted.

Noni ~ You're welcome here anytime! Maybe you can do a double Island trip and visit your other hystersister on Big Island. It is absolutely beautiful there too!!! DH and I love to stay in Hilo! We :steer: around the entire Island and play And we always make sure we stop in Punaluu to get bread from the bakery (so fresh! YUM!!!) and can't forget the stone cookies in Mountain View or the Big Island Candies shop in Hilo!

Birky ~ Yes, we do have some wild pigs...bring DH over and we can send up the mountain with some hunter friends, we also have a lot of :goat1: and deer.

Moonmab ~ Ticks? YUCK! My co-worker just moved to the Mainland and he says they have lots of deer ticks. I will definitely do some screaming for the both of us

Diver ~ One day DH and I will get to Japan, until then....but hey, stop on in with your mom!

Anytime any of you ladies are in my neck of the woods, PLEASE stop in!

Have a blessed day!

Hello ladies! I'm glad you all enjoyed the photos I posted. I don't see these two particular views every day, but every time I get a chance to take a drive and view them, they're as breathtaking as ever! There are so many photos I want to post for you to see. I'll try to add more soon

Well, it's Wednesday and only one more week of work Two more days until DS's graduation again!

Noni & Moonmab~ We're definitely going to see the Tournament of Kings show at Excalibur Hotel! Something about eating with your hands and screaming like a savage appeals to DH and I It's actually a GREAT show! Seen it once, but it changed since the last time we got there.

And Moonmab, the last time I was in Vegas we walked the strip during the day, YUCK! I couldn't believe how much litter was on the streets. Not to mention it was 114 degrees outside We go with a charter flight though, so we stay downtown the majority of the time.

Birkylady ~ I wish you all could see our Island of paradise. It is incredible. The sad part is since we work, go to school, etc. we don't get to see all the spots we love often enough. But it is absolutely beautiful here!

KJ7440 ~ I am hoping to keep very busy. And thank you for your comment! I truly do love all of you as well and am so grateful to have each and every one of you in my life!! Couldn't make it without you!

I hope everyone has a wonderful, pain free and rain free (for some of you) day!

Well, 16 more days until my visit to the Sorry ladies but I am counting down the days until I become an official 3 more days until DS's graduation and 9 more days until Vegas

I'm feeling somewhat calm today about my upcoming hyster. Gotta enjoy these moments while they last

I'll let you all know how the swelly belly band works out.

News, thanks for sharing your story with me about the hospital...I had to chuckle at that, and yes, I got some big granny panties. I am a grandma so that's ok, but honestly, I was looking for the maternity panties because they are so much roomier and less restrictive. Oh well, I'm sure that DH will get a kick out of em just the same

Being that I have DS's graduation and then Vegas coming up, I'm not sure how much I'll be able to be online...I'm hoping I'll still get to pop in frequently until Vegas at least. Don't think I'll be on this weekend though, too hectic. I will definitely try to post on the 13th, day before hyster. I don't think I'll be able to make it if I can't talk to you ladies!!!

I hope you all have a wonderful day!!!!!

PS. I tried to post two photos of our beautiful Island. Not sure if they have been approved yet, still a little confused on how to work the photo section or even to get there LOL

Well, I ordered my swelly belly band After having my previous surgeries, I started thinking about the burning pain and discomfort from the incision. What a great idea the swelly belly band is! Wish I had it long ago!!

Last night was DS "Red & White" football game. We had a great time! Didn't get very good pictures though! More of his back side than anything else LOL. We were sitting kind of low on the bleachers so we didn't get a good view of any of the action. Oh well, when the season starts, I'm sure I'll get some good ones.

I started my shopping this morning for the The hospital check list as well as some posts here on the site have been a great source of information! I got a two-piece PJ set, some new XL panties that go well above the incision site, some toiletries, Mens XL boxers to lounge around the house in, and a couple of larger travel pillows to take with me and for the ride home. I think I've pretty much got everything.

I have started writing in my hystersister journal. It's a great little book! Hope everyone has a wonderful and safe weekend!!!!!

Yes, 20 more days and it will be my turn to become a I cannot tell you all how much you all mean to me! You are all so incredible and I can't make it without you!! I was kind of panicky last night to say the least and I did my fair share of DH was so supportive! He kept reminding me that it needs to be done and that I will be ok, that I have him and I have you ladies to help me through. He's right but my nerves are working overtime!! I truly try not to worry so much but every day since my pre-op is one day closer and with Aunt Flo paying her last respects, well....I must say that she and the Evil Twins have been behaving this visit as well they should since they are being evicted for misconduct

Work is starting to become unbearable, I know I only have a week and a half left before our Vegas trip but It's the raging hormones LOL.

An update on DS, he is feeling better, went to school the next day. My first thought when I saw him was "panic attack", in the end, the Doc mentioned things like, anxiety, heart palpitations, etc. all the common symptoms of an attack, but he was perplexed at the severity of the chest pains and where the pain was radiating from. We will keep a close eye on him and thank you all so very much for your prayers and kind words!

Thank you all for keeping me sane! Have a wonderful and safe Memorial Day weekend!!!

We hunkered down for the night to watch the season finale of American Idol but only got to see about the first 1/2 hour of it...DH and I received a call about my DSS being in the ER. Fortunately we're less than 5 minutes away from the Hospital so we were able to meet him there at the entrance to ER. DSS is young, almost 17 but he was having major chest pains. They put an IV line in him and gave him an xray and EKG which both were normal...he also had a few doses of morphine so he finally was pain free and feeling much better. The Doctor couldn't really figure out what may have brought that on but because his pain subsided and the two tests were negative he opted to not subject him to harmful radiation and tests that may not be warranted, he said we should watch him and follow up with his PCP. Whew!! We arrived home around 10:15ish and then had dinner, showered and finally was in bed around 11:30ish. We're just glad he's ok.

Friendangel ~ I have to ask, paper underwear, really? And where can I get some? Those sound like they would definitely come in handy!

Marta ~ The book actually sounds lovely, I will have to look into it and if you ever get to Hawaii it would be wonderful for us to meet! Keep me posted, nothing's impossible :-)

That goes for all you wonderful ladies too!

I hope everyone is pain free and has a blessed day! LOVE to you all!!!!

I have always had issues with insomnia, ever since I was really young but it gets old after a while. I woke up last night and couldn't go back to sleep for over an hour. I guess I shouldn't complain because it could have been 2 or 3.

I try not to get up or think of anything when I awake during the night because I have such a problem falling back to sleep. I couldn't help thinking of Karolyn and that she was probably on her way to the or she was there already awaiting her turn to become a . I also thought of all the other in waiting today. I started to feel a little anxious. Well, I said a for all of us and finally drifted off to sleep.

Noni, please give Karolyn my love when you see her.

I sure wish you could all be with me when it's my turn. Since my pre-op on Monday, I am becoming increasingly nervous. I know this is normal and I know that I am in great hands and will be ok. I just have to try to keep myself busy so I don't go bonkers I am definitely ready for my trip but I wouldn't be me if I wasn't nervous. DH has noticed it and is the absolute best support I have other than you ladies here and I cannot enough for all of the support you have given me over the past few months. You are all absolutely wonderful!

With DS graduation coming up next week, I really have a lot to do. I am in the process of making leis for him and a few of his classmates. I also think I'll do a little "fun" shopping this weekend. I do need things for my upcoming trip to Vegas and I also need things for the and after.

Note to self ~ things to be positive about:
I have the best support group in the world!!
Maybe I will give birth to a 50 lb. uterus LOL!!
I will get plenty of rest.
I am going to feel so much better when it's all over.
No more Aunt Flo or the Evil Twins
And NO MORE PAIN********

Love to all of you incredible women!!!

Well, I was awaken this morning at 4AM by Aunt Flo rushing through the door! Guess she wanted one more visit before the big day! The nerve ...I've been keeping very busy so I don't have to dwell too much on my upcoming visit to the DH went with me today and my Doc is so wonderful! He never rushes through anything and he was completely thorough in everything to expect and prepare for. He gave DH strict instructions that I am NOT to do any yardwork for 6 weeks LOL. DH said well, I guess the yard will have long grass for 6 weeks. Doc got a kick out of that one!

I haven't really been too nervous until today. The preop appointment was a reminder of the day that I've been waiting for to become a . I know I will feel better when it's over and I thank all of you wonderful ladies for being here for me. I feel so empowered by being educated and prepared for what will and can happen.

Luckily for me, no bowel prep. No need to redo my blood count. It's just wait. I did take my HysterSister journal with me today because it has the list of preop questions which I didn't really need to ask because Doc was so thorough but it was reassuring to have it. Doc loved it too! I always praise and refer this site to others that are in similar circumstances. This website truly is a Godsend!!

Diverchick I will try to get online tomorrow to see how you're doing! I know you are going to do great!!!

KJ7440 I'm sorry I missed you yesterday! I hope you are feeling well and pain free!!!

Love to you all!!!!!!!

Well, got my last grade. I got a B I'm completely satisfied with that for this semester, although I know I better pick it up next semester. Between that and my A in lab, that should boost my GPA slightly. I am glad that I have a couple months break though! I'll try not to study toooooo much ladies

You are all right! No sense being in pain while waiting for my surgery. I am happy to say that I have not needed to take the darvocet yet. Whew!! I will say that my pre-op is on Monday and I am starting to get more anxious about my hyster. I have started on that list of things I would like done so that has helped keep my mind off of things. The next few weekends we're pretty busy as well so I won't have too much time to dwell.

A dear friend of mine made me a beautiful quilt with matching pillowcases. I plan on putting those on my bed before I go to the hospital. Then when I come home, I'll be able to enjoy them. Haven't used them yet but they are beautiful! There are horses on them. Horses are my favorite!! I always tell DH that I was supposed to be born on a ranch!

I hope you all have a wonderful blessed day!!

My Doctor called me back a few minutes ago. He is going to prescribe Darvocet for me in case my pain gets really bad. I really hate taking medications but when my ovary feels like it's going to explode well... One more month...

Well, I left a message for my Doctors Nurse yesterday. I wanted to confirm my pre-op appointment and be sure all is still a go with my surgery date. As of right now, I have not received a phone call from her. She's a great Nurse (went to school with her LOL) so I know she'll call back soon. I also left a message letting her know how much pain I've been having lately. My Ponstel just doesn't work anymore and Advil does diddly. Well, one more month and then it's my turn.

Thank you all for your advice about the meds! I always get concerned about feeling ill and the urge to spew (sorry). I'll talk to the anesthesiologist as well.

Shawn, I too seem to deposit when I go to Vegas. I'm hoping to make a withdrawal this time

Noni, this is my thoughts on school I guess it must be normal LOL! Oh, and my DSs think I'm absolutely nuts! I went home yesterday and started studying and they said "Mom, isn't school over?" I told them I just wanted to get ahead for next semester and I think they were almost tempted to take my temperature or something. They definitely looked at me as if I were ill!

kj, thanks for the tip on the H2O! Good advice. I always try to drink plenty of water but the extra push sounds like it'll be helpful!

Diverchick, your friend is on our closest neighboring Island. We're on Kauai. Honolulu is a little too fast paced for me. I love the quiet life here!

Have a blessed weekend everyone!!

Thank you all for the warm welcome back!!! DH has been asking me frequently whether I have been in contact with all of you wonderful ladies. He knows what joy you all bring to my life! He also knows how much the wonderful support means to me!!

I know it will take me a while to catch up on everyone so forgive me if I'm a little out of the loop on things.

Noni ~ I sure hope all is well with you and no relapse of that awful cold! And I too am hoping that surgery fixes my pain. I am so grateful to have a summer break from school. So much to do and so little time.

KJ7440 ~ Thanks for the warm welcome back!!! I sure have missed all of you!!

Math TeachGal ~ I know. Last semester, my instructor made us wait forever to get our grades. This semester our instructor is really keeping us updated because she knows we're all stressed. I was surprised to get my grades so fast too! Good luck with your grades!!

BirkLady ~ You know, even though I have not been online is so long, I think of you all daily!! It seems my pain always waits until evening time on the weekends to be truly unbearable. It feels like my ovary is going to explode once in a while. I always feel pain during ovulation, so I know it's my ovary area but OUCH!!!!! I guess the evil twins know they're coming out LOL.

MoonMab ~ It's wonderful what every individual brings to this website isn't it? I have never met a more incredible group of strong, positive women!!! Wish you could all come to Hawaii to visit! It's actually been nice here, we have our tradewinds which is always a blessing! Summer is coming upon us and come June 1st we will be in Hurricane season. It seems we're overdo for one. My goodness though, the weather sounds horrible in Oklahoma!! It sounds kind of like what we went through last March.

diverchick ~ I wonder if your friend lives on the same Island. That would be something! I can imagine how much your nerves must be working right now that you're getting closer to your date. I pray everything goes well with your trip to the castle!! What are you doing to cope with it? I am planning on getting everything done on that list of mine (starting this weekend). DH and DSs are in for a treat when they find out they're doing windows LOL. I did it the last time so...

You are all absolutely wonderful!!! Thank you for blessing my life Have a wonderful day sisters!!!

Shucks! I almost forgot to ask. Is there anything that the doc says you can take prior to surgery to avoid getting sick? I have my pre-op in a couple weeks so I will ask my Doc but I was curious if anyone knows. Dont' want to get sick when we go to Vegas.

Hello sisters! Sorry I haven't been online is such a long time. It felt like forever. I'm even more sorry I didn't have a chance to pop in occasionally to let you all know that I'm still here and doing fine. School has been crazy this past month. Yesterday was my very last final for the semester I am so excited that it's over!! My hard work has paid off in my lab class, I received an A for the semester...yes, I am floating on air! I am waiting for my final grade in my lecture class, which by the way, I will be more than happy with a B.

I have so many things to get caught up on at home now, it seems I haven't been too much help on the homefront since I've been back to school. Good thing DH is a gem! DSs are older and extremely helpful too. They keep me going.

Now I have more time to prepare for surgery. I have my pre-op in a couple of weeks. I will keep myself busy during this time so I don't start freaking out about it. I try not to dwell on it too much. I have had some bouts with extreme pain so it reminds me that yes, surgery is needed. I thought I was ER bound about two weeks ago when the pain was so unbearable I couldn't even sit down, I had to stand with a heating pad pressed to my abdomen. Well, soon it will be over and that gives me something to smile about.

I know I have a lot of catching up to do with everyone! I have missed you all immensely!!! Can't tell you how much withdrawals I have had from this site. I will have some free time this summer and I will do my best to keep caught up! HUGE HUGE HUGS TO YOU ALL!!!!

Hello sisters, just a quick online journal. I think I caught whatever Noni has LOL. I am sick for the second time this year! Yuck. Airborne didn't help so I'm not taking it. Back to school today too and we've all been passing around our germs. After that it's off to

Hope you're feeling better Noni and everyone else who's sick! HUGS

Aloha sisters!!

I know I mentioned that I was going to try Micronutra's Healthslim. I have for a month, although I wasn't strict with my eating/exercising, so of course it did absolutely nothing for me. Yes, that gazelle just keeps getting dustier and dustier.

I did try a couple of years ago, this program by Michael Thurman, it's called a Six Week Body Makeover. You can google it by putting in Michael Thurman. For me personally, I did the strict eating (which still was eating 5 times a day) and I did lose 16 pounds in 6 weeks and that was without the exercise. It seemed like I lost more inches than actual pounds. My problem was, I did everything I was supposed to but when my free eating day came around, well, need I say more? LOL

I really do need to get myself motivated so I can feel better. My boss purchased a months supply of those Zone bars and shakes for me. Supposed to be great for energy, etc. yada yada yada Hasn't helped and they are awfully expensive. Don't think I'll continue those.

Hopefully soon I'll be in the Nursing Program and won't be sitting behind this desk all day and then going home to sit some more while I study. There just isn't enough time in the day to do everything and by the time those two priorities are done with, I'm exhausted and just can't motivate myself to do anything else. I just want to "sit down" LOL and relax. Yikes, no wonder my okole (rear end) is big!

Now, time for some lunch Have a blessed day sisters!

Aloha everyone!

Well, I just received my very first iPod yesterday. Love it!! It's an 80Gb and already I have two movies and loads of music! It'll come in handy for photos of body parts, muscles, etc. I know you ladies know what I'm talking about. It's amazing how they can package something so powerful into such a small object.

DH and I spent the weekend on O`ahu. Some friends of ours took us to a Yakiniku style Korean Restaurant. Absolutely delicious!!!! We have great Korean food on Kaua`i but this place really outdid anything we get over here! That was truly a treat! Makes me hungry just thinking about it. Then we topped off the night with a little Ben & Jerry's. Chunky Monkey is so my favorite!! After reading journals, it seems a lot of us were out for ice cream.

Well, Thursday I emailed the Nursing Counselor at our College regarding my entry date into the Nursing Program itself. I only have two more courses I can take, which already knocks down half of the classes I would need to take during the program. From the beginning she has told me that it looks as if I may qualify for the Fall 2008 placement into the program
and that I wouldn't know for sure until March of 2008. Well, I'm plugging away slowly but let her know that I am interested in 2007 as well. Then, I heard that she was calling people for 2008 already. I did not get a phone call or a letter so when I emailed her I asked her my status. She replied to me that letters went out for those accepted into the "2008" program (a week before). Ok, now I'm wigging out! She did tell me that she would check my status today and get back to me. Well, I received her email today and it actually looks as though, there may even be an opportunity for me to enter the program this coming Fall. So, I think she meant to write 2007 in the email on Friday, instead of 2008. Apparently, there are three people ahead of me waiting, so with that in mind, I think it's almost guaranteed that I get in the 2008 program at the very latest. That made me feel better! She did say that she'll let me know if there are any openings once grades come out in June. I better keep my grades up!! I hope all of that made sense! Sorry, my mind is full and jumbled right now!! Keep your fingers crossed for me sisters! I sure could use the good vibes coming my way!!!

I hope you all have a healthy, happy, pain and stress free day!! HUGS to you all!!!

Hello my fellow sisters! First, I have to apologize to everyone for being MIA and not letting you all know what's been happening. I am so very sorry! I have missed you all immensely!!! I think of you all often but I have been so busy that I have not had time to catch up on everyones happenings, nor to post mine.

Work has been utterly crazy lately! I won't even go there. School as you all know has been nuts for me this semester as well. I truly am enjoying my class and my grades are so far pretty darn good! It's just trying to keep up with class as well as work and home. Phew! I've been pretty exhausted. I met with my counselor again and it still looks as if she's trying to place me in the Fall of 2008 program. I sure hope so because I've come so far and accomplished so much already, I'm sure not giving up now.

Since life has been so hectic for me lately, I have found that I haven't been dwelling on my upcoming visit to the castle. It seems as if it's just creeping up when I'm not aware. I guess when school is over for the summer, that's when I'll notice. I plan on trying to get ahead for my second semester of Anatomy and Physiology during the summer break. It'll keep my mind off of things and provide me with some rather non-stimulating reading LOL. Just kidding! I do find A & P pretty interesting! Our bodies are amazing machines.

I have Spring break coming up next week and hope to get a little extra study time in as well as catch up on how everyone's doing. I sure have missed you all and think about how you are all doing!! Hope you all have a blessed day!!!!!!!! Super HUGE HUGS to all!!!!

Bec

Hello sisters! Well, It appears I'm usually a day late in reading everyones journals! I'm sure trying to get my time in online. Everyone knows how hectic school has been for me!

Moonmab - Yes, taxing junk food and making healthy food cheaper is definitely the way to go! I can't for the life of me understand why anything healthy is so expensive! We pay anywhere from $5.00 and up for a gallon of milk! Vegetables are ridiculously expensive too and we so love our salads!

Sisterof3 and Friendangel - My bottom hurts too! Even with the extra cushion LOL! I'll definitely let you know how it goes.

Birklady - Unfortunately my Gazelle is low impact but the cardiovascular kicks my rear! DH and I used to walk 3 miles a day but then I got sick and we stopped going for a while and then just got out of the routine. It is a great machine, but I can only handle about 5 minutes to start. I think I'll eventually build up some endurance

kj7440 - Thanks for the encouragement on school. It's hard to remember that I do have half of a brain sometimes

Diverchick - It is so true. I think so many people are starting to live a more sedentary lifestyle, myself included. With fast food being so convenient and cheap, its a making of a crisis!

Noni - Thanks for the support with school! Oh, I think I did pretty well with this last exam. Guess I'll find out Tuesday. The vocab was 2 pages!

HUGS Sisters!!

Well, I've been plugging along with the studying. I have yet ANOTHER exam this Thursday for three chapters. YIKES! We had three chapters to learn in a week. There aren't enough hours in the day to work and learn. But, I'll just have to keep going. And to think, there will be one more semester of this.

Well, I just started taking this Healthslim product that's made by Micronutra. It's a dietary supplement that's supposed to be really good. A dear friend of mine is diabetic and she takes their products. She has lost so much weight and she's feeling great. She's taking a different supplement but made by the same company. I never did have problems with my weight until I hit 30. Even after my four children, I was thin, thin, thin. Then I lost a lot of weight at one point only to get a desk job and gain it back plus some. My poor body has had enough. I'm also changing my eating habits and hopefully the gazelle I have at home will see a bit more action. I'll keep you all posted. It's expensive as heck but has a 100% money back guarantee. I sure hope this isn't a gimmick. Just call me gullible I guess.

Take care sisters! Bec

Well, it's Friday at last! The intermittent rain showers have stopped for the afternoon. The palm trees are swaying with the breeze (we love when we have trades) and the sun is shining. It's amazing how fast the rain can come and go here. You can stand on the road and the rain literally starts a foot in front of you. It's hard to explain, but it's always amazing to see. And the rainbows! The colors are amazing and so vivid! It's common to see double rainbows too. I really must post some pictures of our Island soon. Then you will all be able to look at those and picture yourselves here.

It's amazing how long it's been since we've taken a nice drive. We live pretty close to work so it's a 10 minute ride, and the boys go to High School right up the hill from my Mall. It really is convenient, but with work and school, I'm ashamed to say that sometimes we get so busy to really enjoy the Island. I do look at the mountains and ocean on my ride to work. I always try to take in the rainbows and the low hanging clouds that have that perfect way of blending with the mountains. And we get the most incredible sun streaks that shine through the clouds that just remind me of Heaven. Those things I always take notice of and every day am in awe of just how beautiful it is here.

Have a wonderful weekend my sisters! I pray that everyone is pain free and well. Bec

Well, I got behind on my reading for A & P so I had to cram the last two days for an exam. Shame on me! Honestly, I ended up missing class on Tuesday because I was panicked and unprepared! That's the first class I have missed since going back to school but nonetheless, I am ashamed. We got a call from a dear friend this weekend wanting us to Island hop to Oahu. He actually talked DH into it, so off we went on Saturday mid-afternoon and did not get home until Sunday evening. It was a nice break but one that I could not afford to take. The weather was warm and the waters were different shades of blues and turqouise. The white sand beaches are awesome. We tried to stay out of the city because Honolulu is just too incredibly big for us. We're small town people and getting us into large crowds just doesn't work well for us. I have learned my lesson about taking time away from studying. Can't afford to get behind.

My oldest DS is having a tough time lately. He truly is a wonderful guy. Just turned 18. I guess between the age and the hormones, it's finally getting to be a bit much. He's respectful but is searching for his freedom and is starting to lean more towards his friends than family time. I can't say it's not understandable. We knew it would happen eventually but I'm not prepared for it. His attitude has been in the dumps lately. DH and I pick him up from work and take him to work at 7AM on Saturdays and Sundays and work our (the families) day around being in town to pick him back up at 11AM. There seems to be no gratitude from him lately for us putting in an effort to help him. He keeps all of his money, we ask for nothing. We wanted to give him an opportunity to become responsible with money, working part time, etc. Instead, his grades have dropped, his attitude is lacking and I feel somewhat taken advantage of. Yes, DH and I realize we are his parents, but we have always taught the kids to be respectful and thankful.

We decided somewhat spur of the moment a couple weekends ago to stay the night at a Hotel in Kapaa. It was closer to where our grandbaby's first year birthday party was. We were more than willing to take him to work on Sunday morning but he did not want to go to the hotel. He ended up catching a ride to the party from his friends and then he had them pick him up to take him home. Ok. No problem, but then he did not go to work on Sunday. His response was, "who wants to get up at 7 O'clock in the morning?" I then told him, we sure don't. But if he wants to rely on his friends and they take precedence in his life, then maybe they should start taking him to work and picking him up. Mind you, he does pay them for rides after school to get to work.

Have mercy, he is just overwhelming me right now with every other stress I have. But, as I said, he's a great guy. He doesn't get into trouble, he has a kind heart, it's just the growing pains. Can we get through it soon please? Then again, there are two in a row right behind him. LOL.

Thanks for letting me vent sisters!!! I sure have missed you all more than you know! Bec

I sure have missed all of you. I have been so very sick lately with a horrible cold and work is overwhelming! I feel like part of my lifeline has been taken away because I've been gone. I'm still pressed for time but I hope to get caught up with everyone soon. Just wanted to say I'm still here and I miss all of you!

By the way, I'm getting a B so far in A & P Lecture and I just aced my very first Lab exam. Got 70 out of 75 I am thrilled!!!!!!! Hope to get caught up soon! Take care all you wonderful ladies!

Don't quite know what's wrong with me. I think my hormones are working overtime and doing somersaults while they're at it. Hey, let's party while we still have a chance Party on girls, because you'll be gone with Aunt Flo pretty soon.

I feel as though I am PMSing every single day. My mood swings are not fun. I know the doc says my hormones are off balance (as they've been forever it seems like) but boy oh boy, what a roller coaster lately! Last night I was stressed out about school and not being able to remember everything. Can't seem to keep my mind focused anymore. Too much on the brain I guess. So, the teary eyed me tells my DH that I want to be one of those great Nurses, not the burnt out ones who don't care. DH tells me that I WILL be a great Nurse because I want to be a Nurse to help others and not for any other reason. I tell DH, yeah, but I want to be a great "educated" Nurse. I can't just "get by" in class. He says, honey, that's what OJT is for LOL. And he's right. I know that I'm going to be great because I have the desire and passion to help others. And I can't memorize EVERY SINGLE THING. I need to do the best I can and I will learn a lot more once I start applying it in clinicals. Boy oh boy do I absolutely adore my DH! What a keeper LOL. He is always there to put things back into perspective even when my hormones are going nuts!

I heard from my oldest DS today. I was so happy to finally receive an email reply from her. She hasn't checked her emails for a while apparently. She said that she would be happy to fly out and help me in any way that she could. She also said that I will be so much happier when it's over. She has been so relieved since her hyster was done. I love the reassurance.

Any advice on keeping the girls under control until June is greatly appreciated sisters! I have tried Vitamin B, regular vitamins, etc. Can't take BC (the extra surge in hormones is absolutely UNBEARABLE!) I am taking comfort in the fact that June will be here before I know it. At the rate I'm going, I won't even have time to get the things done that I want to before then. Besides, wherever will I get the energy from?

Thank you for letting me rant and rave today! I feel much better now, at least until the next wave of hormones hits LOL

________________________________
Update:

Just phoned my docs office and let his Nurse know that I will be having Jeckyl and Hyde removed as well as my cervix. Another decision made, YES!

Hi ladies! I forgot to mention in my earlier post that I broke the news to my bosses yesterday. At first, It got quiet, the air got heavy and then they sighed They were ok with everything. I think they were relieved that I wasn't giving my notice.

Now it's just the waiting game but being so busy with school, who has time to worry (yeah right!).

Superbowl was great! Missed pretty much the entire thing. This is the day I get to host the family so I was busy helping out with things needed, etc. It was wonderful! And hey, the Colts won! My oldest grand-daughter, she's two, brought her parents over for superbowl too LOL. She's a riot! So grown up for being two. After she bathed for the night, we cuddled up to watch Ice Age and we both fell asleep. Aaah life is good She came over for a few hours yesterday while mommy went to work and then her daddy picked her up. We were eating poke (raw fish) and crab when her daddy came. She did not want to leave. She told him "I want to stay Nana and Papa's house!". Absolutely precious!!! Our second grand-daughter will be one on Friday! Time sure does fly!

Thank you all so much for your studying tips! I got some great pointers out of that! I spoke to my Instructor yesterday and she reviewed my notes, etc. She says I have a good handle on the information, but I told her on the written portion of the tests that I never do well. She said, yeah, what happend there? I told her I never seem to encompass all of the information that Instructors look for. I did well on the multiple choice but writing always messes me up. That's when the points come off. She suggested that I write the vocabulary down (required) and then make the list again and sit down and take it like a spelling test. Try to figure out where the word fits, how it works and what it is. I wasn't expecting her vocabulary section to require us not only to know what the word was but where it is located and how it works. My mind just sort of went blank, which by the way is a very common things these days. Think I've lost too many brain cells The lightbulb takes a little longer to go on than it use to.

I hope everyone is feeling well and getting some warmer weather!!

Hellow my sisters! I went to campus today to study. Didn't get much done. Tomorrow's Superbowl and it looks as tho I will be spending the morning studying Well, I guess it must be done! I just can't get the hang of school. I realized today that I am having difficulties juggling Lecture and Lab. It was the same thing with Microbiology. Just can't seem to get into the swing of things. I study hard and I re-read every chapter. I type up my notes and do my A & P coloring book. Just not sure what I'm doing wrong. Any suggestions I would appreciate!

Well I wish I could send you some and warmer weather!!! Stay warm and safe my sisters! Enjoy Superbowl!

Yikes! It sure is cold today! We have North Winds and it was 59 degrees this morning. Yes, everybody knows I'm a whimp when it comes to the Guess that's what happens when you're used to the tropics. Wish I can send you all some "warmer" weather!

Tried to book my moms flight out here last night. Called her and oooppps, she was sleeping. Flights sure are expensive in the summer but I found a somewhat reasonable fare.

Superbowl's coming up Sunday! Of course my team didn't make it. I'm an Oakland Raiders NUT!! Maybe next year guys! I'm kind of rooting for Indianapolis Colts, it's bound to be a great day no matter what. We set up Superbowl in our backyard which is adjacent to my MIL's house (small little fence separates us). It's very convenient as DH's family is very large and believe it or not, we have a LOT of family functions. We put up tarps, set up tables, grills, woks, chairs and let us not forget our 54" projection TV. Yes, the TV is there basically just for Superbowl. We take it outside and we are set. The amount of food we have is ridiculous! But oh so yummy!!!! We cook outside, socialize with our family and friends and just have a wonderful time! Wish you all could be here I will be thinking of all of you!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Well it's official! I am headed on June 14th. I feel somewhat relieved that the decision has been made and I definitely have a date. Now it's just the anticipation and waiting.

I spoke with my Mom on my way to class. She was talking to my oldest sister (you know, the one that hasn't responded to my email). Anyways, she was telling my sister that she hopes I keep my ovaries. My sister explained to her that even if I keep them there is no guarantee that I won't lose them later. I explained to her the information that I have learned and told her that I have not completely made up my mind about the menacing twins yet. But that I am leaning on saying aloha to them both. The Nurse did ask me as well. My Mom is hoping to come and stay with me a couple of weeks to help out. My DS's will be home "Summer Break" but I'm sure they wouldn't mind Grandma taking over LOL.

I still have a ways to go but I know I will make it through since I have all of you! Have a blessed, pain free day my sisters!

Well, I spoke to the Nurse on Friday late afternoon. She said she would pull my file and have Doc give me a call, which he did yesterday. I told him I have opted for my hyster and am hoping to have it done this summer. He said all I needed is to give the Nurse 4-6 weeks notice and that should be sufficient. My hyster is warranted because of the Adenomyosis and I opt to improve my quality of life.

I will keep you posted as to the date. I feel better now that it has been discussed with my Doc and it's official, I will be visiting the Castle. Even though I have the choice at this point in time to have the hyster or not, its been an extremely difficult road and choice to make. Without all of you hystersisters I would not have been able to make such an educated choice. I feel confident in my decision and feel I am prepared for the end results no matter what they are. I cannot thank you all enough for your love, prayers and support

On a stinky note, we dissected a fetal pig in lab yesterday. Boy, was it smelly but very educational. I went home and changed clothes and could still smell the pig on me. I took a shower, could still smell it and then figured it was just in my nose LOL. We had an oral test on all the organs on the pig, etc before we left class. I think we did pretty good, but bring on the A & P nightmares. Couldn't sleep a wink without dreaming of organs and test questions. Woke up every 15-30 minutes last night. Boy am I beat today!

Well, my DSs all have 3PM appointments. Forgot about the dentist for two of them, my youngest's post-op followup overlapped. Had to cancel his dental appointment. So all in all, I have class today, oldest has a 3pm "tattoo" appointment. (Yes, DH is THRILLED about that , NOT) He hates tattoos but oldest is 18 and paid for it himself, and being that I have two myself, well, what can we say. Second oldest has his dental appointment at 3pm and you know about the youngests post-op. He has not returned to normal since his operation. Kind of concerned. Oh, and did I mention, don't know how I'm going to get them all where they need to go in time LOL. Oh well, let the fun begin

Brenda, I can never remember all seven of the dwarfs either. I really have to think about it but here goes: Grumpy, Doc, Happy, Sneezy, Bashful, Dopey, Sleepy. Hooray!

Have a blessed day my sisters!

Thank you all for your support. I did call yesterday to leave a message for the Nurse to call me back. Told her it wasn't an emergency, so I haven't heard from her yet Good thing it's not an emergency I finally had the courage to call and try to schedule my hyster. I'm still going to try and hold out until Summer break. I can't afford to miss school, but oh I wish it was sooner.

I was an emotional wreck last night. It's so funny because my moods are so erratic now, I keep thinking, how much worse can it get after the hyster I feel like more than one of the seven dwarfs at once, Happy, Sleepy, Grumpy and yes, let's not forget Dopey My DH sure is a trooper!

DS is doing better, starting to put some weight on the knee. Not so swollen either. Whew!! He wanted to go to school today! My response was We'll see how he's doing this weekend.

I'll let you all know when I get that long awaited call from the Have a blessed day my sisters!

Aunt Flo finally appeared Tuesday morning. I cannot believe I couldn't wait for her to come. Hoping it would ease the pain! For the better part of the month I have felt horrible. So much pain in my lower back, pain shooting down my inner thighs from what feels like my ovary areas, and the cramping without the period is something awful. It's worse since I had my hysteroscopy with resection in September. Can't understand why I'm having pain more now than I did before. Started taking my Ponstel before Aunt Flo even arrived because the pain was getting to be too much.

I know that my fellow hystersisters know how draining it is to be in pain for so long. It really takes a toll, mentally as well as physically. Besides being on an emotional roller coaster, I am physically exhausted from work and school. I can't seem to get enough sleep and I'm so tired all the time!!! I go to sleep earlier, I've been taking vitamins with extra iron. No matter what I do, I'm exhausted.

I pray that physically I will feel better after my hysterectomy. Maybe I won't be so tired all the time? It's hard going through life daily being so darned fatigued. Oh well, it's a start of a new day and I hope it's a wonderful, pain free, energetic one for all of us

My DS had a lot of swelling in his leg after surgery but most of that is gone. His knee still does not look like it belongs on his body. I sure hope they don't end up having to drain it. For now it's elevating, icing and advil. He's young and seems to be feeling so much better! It's nice to see him without being in pain, poor guy.

Hugs to all of my sisters and sorry I haven't been able to keep up with everyone lately. Hopefully I'll get back into the swing of things soon.

I sure have missed my hystersisters! I hope everyone is well and pain free! I do not have much time to make this entry so I better get to it.

My DS had his knee surgery on Friday. Check in was 11:45 AM, I did not get him home until 6:30 PM. It was waiting, waiting and more waiting. Needless to say he was in a lot of pain so he took a percocet. The stuff is really tough on the stomach so my DS was ill (all over the bathroom I might add). This was tough for a 15 year old. I am so proud of my older DS who helped me clean up the bathroom. My middle DS wasn't quite sure what to do (I think he may have been a bit queasy) but I am proud that he helped get his brother back to bed and made him an ice pack. What troopers!

DS knee, leg, ankle and foot are still pretty swollen. We had him elevating it, ice packs, etc. but the swelling was not going down so I missed work yesterday to take care of him and get him back to the Doc's office. Fortunately, they did not have to drain the knee, yet. Hopefully, it will go down and they won't have to at all. Poor little guy is in so much pain I can't imagine him being able to stand it. I thought he was going to pass out when they gave him his I.V.

Oh, had my first lab yesterday, yes she has doubled up. I'm very disheartened by it actually. It was like micro all over again as far as so much work in so little time and no organization! Well, I'm sure it will get better. PLEASE let it get better!!!!

So sorry my sisters, I can't wait to get caught up but for now I'm still running!

Wednesdays we have a free hula show here at the Mall. Aunty Bev is great as she can always remember every single persons name and where they are from. Her Halau (dance group) have been performing for years. I still do not know how she can retain all that information in such a short period of time. I think I must ask her today. I sure would love to be able to do that for class.

Brenda, that was so funny because I had to cheat and go look for the name but it's the "Periodic Table of the Elements". This was a brain teaser a few months back before I started Microbiology. Couldn't remember the darn things name. Still can't LOL!

Moonmab, Genetics? Really? Sounds way too intense for my feable little brain but incredibly interesting! I wish me and Science would get along better

Ok, Nomorepads! I will be picking yours and Moonmabs brain!! I sure wish Chem would make sense to me It must be a mental block!

KJ7440, I am so looking for the day of no more pain!!! I don't think June will come soon enough LOL. But it's fun that I can at least count down how many more times Aunt Flo gets to visit before getting the boot I can't be more thrilled about that!!!!

I do have to say to all my supportive sisters that I was rather proud of myself yesterday. I was confused about the way my A & P book explained cations and anions. I know what they are but always thought the charge was opposite. Well, I read it over and over and over and yes over again and actually figured it out for myself. When I went to class yesterday and the Instructor reviewed it, I was correct in my reasoning. I really was rather proud of myself. Maybe my brain cells work after all LOL. Micro was a killer but I sure am glad that I actually learned and retained something.

Oh, I heard an update this morning on that stabbing victim. She is now in fair condition which is encouraging because she is getting better. It has a lot of the tenants pretty shaken up but we watch out for each other. I am just glad she is going to be ok.

To all of my hystersisters I hope you have a wonderful, pain free, energetic, hormonally balanced day!!! Bec

Wow, I sure missed my hystersisters fix this weekend. The good news is I've been so busy studying! Working on my A & P coloring book, typing notes, etc. etc. The bad news is I couldn't spend time on hystersisters like I've grown accustomed to, and the other thing is I'm on chapter 2 in A & P, and what are we studying but the dreaded Chemistry chapter!!!! YUCK! It sure is a snooze fest LOL. I do not understand why Chemistry is always the second chapter in these books and the chapters are twice as long as the others. Oh, well, at least it looks familiar.

Well, I know I'm due for dreaded Aunt Flo any day, but she hasn't appeared yet. My goodness, my back has been killing me for days and the cramping is plentiful! It seems that I have gotten worse than before the Hysteroscopy. I can't seem to get comfortable in any position. I will be happy for the day when the pain stops. It's funny how you forget what it feels like to be pain free sometimes.

Ok, enough of that! Have to make this short because yes, you guessed it, back to studying

Hope all my hystersisters are well and everyone has a pain free, peaceful evening!!!

Wow, it sure has been a long day but I can't stay off of this site!! Gotta keep up with all you sisters. I do have to say that I emailed my oldest sister to ask her advice about hysterectomy. I am sad to say that I have not gotten a response yet. Glad I have all of you!!!!

Last night was pretty exciting. My DH and I and some friends were down at the beach and we got a phone call from another friend that we were on tsunami watch. Well, we dropped everything, packed up, warned the rest of the people on the beach and headed home. Then we were busy for the next hour making phone calls to family, friends, neighbors, employees, etc. about the watch. Finally to our relief after 10pm HST the watch was cancelled. PHEW!!!! Relief!! We are not in tsunami zone but it is devestating when one hits.

This morning we attended a funeral for one of our BF's grandmothers funeral. She lived to a young age of 96 years old. Our BF is a couple years older than I and he has taken care of his grandmother forever it seems. It is common in Hawaii for grand parents to raise the grand children. He is an awesome person. Our hearts are breaking for him but he seems to be handling incredibly well. The ceremony was held in a Catholic church in Kaumakani. It is an old plantation camp. His grandparents worked for the plantation and although the sugar cane planation is now closed, the workers are still housed there. Once the original worker and spouse pass away, the rest of the family must leave. He now has 45 days to vacate the house. It is a very very very old camp and the homes are not kept up really. It is a long story really. Anyway, we would like him to come and stay with us but he has an Auntie and Uncle that helped him with his Grandmother in Kaumakani. He may stay with them. The Church was solemn but joyful today. It is a historical part of the Island and as everyone was mourning the passing of dear Grandmother and rejoicing in her now peaceful existence, the wind was blowing gently outside through the trees.

I pray our dear friend and his family have peace tonight and I pray all of you, my sisters have a peaceful, painless, comforting weekend!! HUGS to you all!!!

After my journal entry yesterday I received a phone call. The person did not identify herself at first, just asked to speak to accounting. Because I also do the accounting, again, just call me "Jack", I said, "speaking". She asked me for the last name of one of my tenant. Now she has my attention. Of course I did not just fall off the turnip truck so I asked who she was. She then identified herself and said she was calling from our local newspaper. I asked her if it was in regards to last nights incident? Her response was what incident? Did something happen?

Yeah, right! OK so I then proceed to tell her absolutely NOTHING! I informed her that I cannot divulge any information regarding my tenant, which I would not have done anyways. I indicated to her that I would pass her name and number on to the owner of the mall. If he felt like calling her back he would but that she should call the tenant herself to get any information she was requesting. She then had the audacity to tell me that she had already been to the mall, walked into my tenants unit and nobody was there so she was calling us, "Well, I guess you can't answer any of my other questions, then?" Hello and DUHHHHHHH!!!!! What a sleazy sleazy person!

Update on the poor girl that got stabbed, she is in stable condition this morning. They do have the other woman in custody for the stabbing. Police are not releasing details. Tragic really!

One of my employees actually talked to the reporter. He thought they (her and her staff) were forensic people because they just walked into the unlocked unit and started taking pictures. Again, DUH! He got his name in the paper. I feel like calling that so called reporter and telling her a thing or two but we all know it would just be misconstrued! Too sad!!! Anything for the news I guess. Thank goodness that not all reporters are like that, some actually do have ethics, I hope!

Thank you again to my sisters for your words of encouragement, I feel more at peace today with my decision!!

Thank you so much for all of your kind words of encouragement to my last journal entry! I cannot tell you how much that meant to me. Gosh, I have so much in my head right now, don't know where to start.

I spoke to my Doctor yesterday. He told me that Adenomyosis is a cousin to Endometrios but that it does not spread to other organs. He also indicated to me that I had a hyperplasia uterus (thickened uterine lining) and the resection failed to work. He also said that he does not know whether or not I have endometriosis as well. I told him that I have been doing a lot of research on Adenomyosis (whatever I can find) and a lot of research on hysterectomy. He advised me again that it may be helpful in making a decision by talking to other women about their experiences. I told him about the hystersisters website and asked if he has ever heard of it. He has not but was very interested in checking it out. I hope he can refer this site to others in need because it is truly an incredible find!!!!

My DH and I talked everything over yet again yesterday and we came to the same conclusion, take it out before things progress further and before I enter the nursing program. I would hate for things to get so bad that I would need an emergency hysterectomy and have to drop out of school. Maybe it's somewhat premature but we feel it's better to do it on our timing, not my uterus's. It appears we're still on the go ahead.

I have taken all of your advice. The hystersisters book is on the shelf (temporarily at least), I am starting to make lists of things I would like to get done before surgery, and I am focusing on my studies. Thank you for helping me to regain a sense of focus You are all pricessless!!!!

Just when I was all settled down about everything, I received a phone call from one of my bosses at 10PM at night. He told me that we had a stabbing at the Mall. Goodness. Some poor young girl got stabbed in our courtyard last night. It's horrible!!! Not sure if she is going to make it yet or not. It's an incredibly sad situation!! The police were here all morning still doing their investigations. The whole place was blocked off with yellow tape. What a mess! My tenants had no idea what to do.

My heart goes out to the poor girl. I sure hope she will be ok! Will keep you posted. Thanks again to all of you for your support! Don't know what I'd do without you all

Well, I got a chance to open the Hyster Sisters book last night. After studying of course. I took a good hour and a half before bedtime to read. Honestly, I'm sort of getting freaked out! I have had major abdominal surgery five times if you include my laparoscopic cholecystectomy (a lot of scar tissue removed during that one too), so I am remembering more clearly the post-op recovery. The pre-op jitters don't help either especially since I have decided to wait until Summer.

Maybe it's just PMS that has my moods fluctuating. Sometimes I'm ok with my decision and other times, I think, what the heck am I doing? Just wait it out. Maybe it doesn't need to be done. Yada Yada Yada. I know better but I can't help it. I got about five hours of interrupted sleep last night (nightmares). I know it's ridiculous and I'll feel better about it later today. Maybe it was a little too much reading before bedtime. I also called my Doctor's office yesterday but no response yet. Trying to get that appointment to discuss the Hyst and HRT, etc. I'm afraid that I may not make it to Summer to have this procedure done if I'm going to be dwelling on it for the next 6 months.

Honestly, just contemplating this surgery is a bit much to handle. My hat goes off to all of you sisters that have already scheduled your date and those of you that have already been to the castle!!!!

Well, today was the first day for Lecture of A & P and fortunately (I think ), the Instructor showed up. Seems like a nice enough lady, a no nonsense kinda gal. You get the grade you get because you deserve it, yada yada yada. She did give advice on some great studying techniques Hope they work. I am armed with everything I can think of. Yes, besides my required reading (all 50 lbs), I felt ambitious enough to purchase A & P flashcards and a coloring book (it's supposed to help memory retention). So it looks like I will be eating, sleeping and living A & P for the next few months My bosses are so good at allowing me to juggle my schedule so I can go to school and pursue a different career They are all about people going for their dreams. I'm very fortunate in that respect. That means however, that I have to come back to work after class on Tue & Thu. I hope I can motivate myself to go home and study after work.

I just received my Hyster Sisters book in the mail today and now would like to read that instead of the never ending hours of Science to read. Have no fear, I will make time!

Well, the weekend turned out different than expected. We kept busy at home but the Mountains have to be left for another time Too rainy and my DS could not take off. Well, who knows, maybe this weekend.

Although it was raining in the mountains, we mostly had overcast weather down by the beach. And the anticipated rain (which I love) decided to hit us this morning. What a downpour! Of course, today was my first class of A & P I which did not fair so well. Lugged all of my books, lab coat, goggles, etc. in the rain, and waited for 45 minutes for class to start only to find it had been cancelled. Too sad really! I sure hope she does not decide to double up next week. If she does, OUCH! I hope this first day of the semester is not an indication of what is too come

Good news though, we are expecting thunderstorms. Bring it on!!!!! I just hope I don't have to walk to class in them tomorrow I hope everyone is pain free and doing well today!!

Well, I am off to get caught up with everyone!

This weekend, we're hoping to rent a cabin in the mountains. Kokee park is absolutely beautiful! We love being up there. It's a change from seeing the beach every day. I guess that's one of the best parts about living here, we have ocean and mountains so close. Not sure if our oldest DS can take the weekend off of work. He is a student intern at our local Hospital. If not, we'll just have to settle for a nice long day up there with a great outdoor BBQ.

We have two of the cutest little dogs. I'm sure they'd enjoy the ride. My DH and I have 7 children but none together so we adopted our little Trixie, she was 3 months old at the humane society, she is now 5 human years old. She has a longer lower jaw than top with a tooth that sticks out to the side (kinda looks like Elvis), it is rather cute! She also has a crooked little tail, that we think was broken during her birth, she has hernia on two sides but she is absolutely our "baby". She thinks she is human! She is such a great joy to the entire family. Don't know what we would do without her. Such a sweet disposition. We also have a new addition to our Ohana (family), she is now 2, had her from a wee little bitty of a thing. Her name is Lehua, she is so soft and loves to gives kisses. It took some time for Trixie to get use to her but she's as playful as anything and Trixie loves her.

On another note, DH and I have decided to just try and get the surgery over with this coming Summer. Thank you to all my Hyster Sisters for support and advice, it is truly appreciated! Not quite sure how we will manage the expense yet, I'm pretty scared too. But my DH is my rock and he assures me we will be fine and my health comes first. Yes, again, I am blessed. So, unless anything changes when I speak to my Physician, I guess we are on the go ahead. Don't quite know whether I'm happy about that or not . What I do know is that with the continued support that I receive from you all during my topsy turvy, can't quite make up my mind mode, I'll get through it all!!! Still haven't decided about the ovaries though.

Not quite sure if I'll be able to blog this weekend or not, either way, I hope you all have a wonderful, safe, pleasant and painfree one!!

Thank you to my Hyster Sisters with your kind comments to my first Journal Entry

Yesterday, my DH and I were discussing surgery options in regard to time frame. Financially with my schooling and bills, it's a little difficult to take the time off needed to recuperate. If I wait until Summer, we are still left with 10% of the hospital bill. OUCH! That, plus being on TDI is another OUCH. I mentioned to him, maybe we wait until until after we can switch to HMO, which will be November of this year. Just missed the cutoff date to enroll. Should have followed up with the doc sooner lol. That would mean that I would have to wait until summer of 2008. I'm most likely entering the actual Nursing Program in Fall of 2008. Kind of worried what recovery would be like while doing clinicals all day. And that's a whole year and a half to think about it and stress :confuse:

I told my DH, that even though I'm fortunate enough to be able to pick my time, it seems like NO time will be a good time. He keeps reassuring me that it will work out and that we'll manage. I do so cherish him. I always tell DH that he is my medicine, too bad he can't take away my Adeno :-) LOL. I'm sure things will work out but it's so very much to think about and dwell on!

My oldest DS turned 18 yesterday Wow, time flies. My youngest DS is scheduled for arthroscopic knee surgery this month. So young It's going to be difficult watching him in pain, but after he'll be doing so much better! No more knee problems. He's a trooper with a sweet disposition. I think he'll handle it better than I will.

Well, this website has been incredible but I am still very overwhelmed! I know that every individuals outcome is different and I'm still afraid of what my decision will bring me. Finally being diagnosed with Adenomyosis at least has me feeling a little better emotionally. At least I know what I've been going through for the past too many years. I told my doctor, I always thought it was normal. He informed me that no, in fact what I experience is not normal. I'm still on the fence about whether to take out my ovaries or not. I still need to sit down with my doctor and ask a lot more questions, especially in relations to hrts. I'm also afraid of the long healing process of another major abdominal surgery. Had four already. I'm only 36 but I'm tired of the pain and discomfort, the heavy heavy bleeding, the fatigue, the pms, etc., etc. I'm grateful to have a very supportive husband who is with me no matter what I choose to do. He's probably praying my mood swings will be over. lol :-) I hope so too. Whatever treatment could be done has been done and tried. Not really interested in the "quick fixes" though. I've had my Hysteroscopy with Endometrial Resection. Doc says that he took out 95% of my lining. Started bleeding a regular period before the spotting from the surgery stopped. Major pain and blood flow as well as clots continue. Not much to do now but to sit and wait until I can't stand it or take a leap of faith and pray that my TAH would go ok. Very scary but nice to take comfort in the fact that I'm not alone. Thank you my Hyster Sisters!!!!!