Bipolar check in #39

Wow, so much catching up to do -- this thread really moves! On account of that, I couldn't begin to respond to much, but rest assured, I read and I care.

Things have been going well here, then I went and caught a cold. I know it's not much in the scheme of things, but it's a drag. Using my "weekend" (days off) to rest and push fluids. Was going to run a couple quick errands, but can't find the energy.

Just thought I'd pop in quickly, having been quite scarce lately.

Didn't make it to the walk in clinic today, it's like 10 degrees. I couldn't drag myself out of bed at 6am to go there. I really should have. Maybe I'll try tomorrow. It was just so comfortable and warm in my apartment, I didn't want to leave.

Let's celebrate our cozy beds and our warm homes!!! We are sooo very fortunate!!!
I am grateful, Blue_Bird, to know your home is comfortable for you!!!

Yes, I am thankful for a warm house and working car. Very thankful not to be homeless in this weather.

~Christina, re: Raynauds --


So sorry you must deal with this, too.


I use the hot "packs" which stick to the bottom of my socks and give off heat. Many hunters use them.

I often get them by the case from Walmart (online). When I want less, I get them in smaller quantities at Walmart, at some sporting goods store, etc.

I only need them if going outside in the winter.


Much Love

I haven't been around here much lately. Been so busy with matters related to my dad. I've seen my siblings more these past weeks than since I was a child.


Dad is doing OK. He may be discharged from the physical rehab next Tuesday. He does not wish to return to his home...yet. He says it is too triggering. My sister and I have been researching possible places for him to stay, temporarily, while he attends a dual diagnosis Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). The IOP is walking-distance from my house. My house is not ideal because a) Hubby and I are going to Florida Thanksgiving week, b) I think a community-like environment would be better, and c) My house is not ideal for an elderly person, though we could accommodate him for a very brief period. Instead, we are looking for a respite accommodation care facility. Today my sister and I will visit one or two near me. If he were to stay at one, I would pick him up and take him to/fro the IOP on those days. Staying in my area is far enough from his home that it should seem like a totally different environment. His insurance will likely not pay for such accommodation since he is able to take care of himself physically. (bathe himself, etc.) He may need to pay all of it out of pocket. I think we need to get Dad past the holidays, then perhaps he will be ready to go home again.

Well, again no doctor! Got there and my dr wasn't there. So now it's rescheduled for tomorrow afternoon. I've not had any problems with vomiting for two weeks so it feels like why go now? Except I do need something for sleep. Didn't sleep last night til about 8 this am fell asleep for about a half hour.

Immigration is not responsible for high medical costs.

Oh Christina that is so unfair. I'd like to ring the necks of all those rich GOP's that keep medical care from the hard working classes. They're hand in hand with corporate business that inflate prices. $120 a day for antibiotics! With insurance! That's outrageous. Septicemia isn't something to play around with. Sending your brother lots of healing vibes.

Was very happy to find out my HEAP application was processed (heating/electric assistance) so my electric/heat will be paid from January through April. That's extremely helpful as it's very difficult paying those bills when my rent is nearly all my SSI check. My case manager is great, she's been super helpful.

Things are going well with the abilify increase, tomorrow is the 4th day of the new dose and I haven't had the paranoia that usually comes where I start believing I'm being poisoned. My auditory hallucinations are gone, totally. Which is amazing.

I'm hoping to get to my GP tomorrow, as I posted earlier I meant to go today but that didn't happen. So I'll try again tomorrow. I think I'll bring a thermos of coffee when I leave the house in the morning. Since the temps are around 10 degrees in the morning it will help me stay warm while I wait for the bus.

My concentration is improving. I've been able to read a lot today.

I hope everyone is doing well

Thanks... I’m just really freaked out. He’s calling drug manufacturer tomorrow, usually they can help people uninsured or underinsured. I just pray he can get help... if they have to amputate his foot or more it’s going to cost a hell of a lot more than this 120.00 per day antibiotic for 8 weeks. The 120 is HIS cost per day..I don’t even want to know what it fully costs

I've been busy as all get out, these past few days, researching rehab options and housing options for my dad. Sis has, too. We are taking tours of two assisted living places today. I've also looked at 30 day addictions/dual diagnosis rehab places, but the best option for those seems to be a few states away, in New England. We're in NJ.

I started my Czech Christmas cookie blog post series. This morning I posted cookie # 4. I've made them twice to tweak the recipe. Attached is the one I posted today called Moroccan Cookies (Marokanky). They are a unique cookie made first in a saucepan with heavy whipping cream, confectioner's sugar, a tablespoon flour, chopped orange peel, chopped Craisins, almond slices, and chopped walnuts. Then they are baked, cooled, and have the bottoms dipped in bittersweet chocolate.

Yes, I'm a little nutty about these Christmas cookies! In total, my blog will contain at least 8 Czech Christmas cookie recipes (maybe 9) and a sweet bread recipe.