La Dolce Vita

A CLEAN START

2011-08-22T12:08:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you just need a CLEAN START.

New blog.

Same author.

Same content.

Check it out...

http://thesunnysidelife.blogspot.com/

THANKS A LOT MR. PRESIDENT

2011-02-08T10:36:00.000-06:00

5:45am Wake up. TEST (then eat breakfast).

Get ready for work. (Before getting behind the wheel) TEST.

8:30am/9:00am TEST (to make sure my previous amount of insulin worked well). Eat a snack.

11:00am TEST (sometimes) (to make sure my previous amount of insulin worked well). Maybe I eat lunch now.

If I wait until noon to eat TEST.

2:00pm TEST (to make sure my previous insulin worked well, my numbers are ok, etc).

3:30pm I'm usually hungry for a snack. TEST

4:30pm Get ready to leave work. TEST before getting behind the wheel.

Get home anywhere between 4:45pm-6:00pm depending on traffic and picking Derek up from train.

7:00pm TEST before eating.

9:00pm TEST to make sure everything is working ok.

Anywhere between 10:00pm-11:00pm TEST before going to bed.

Occasionally if I wake up in the middle of the night and am interested where my blood sugar is at TEST.

That's 12 BLOOD TESTS...and this is on a day I'm not exercising. You can add another 3 TESTS or so as I TEST more frequently as it gets closer to my actual workout. After my workout. And, if I'm not feeling well, sometimes during my work out.

What about on days I go low. You know the drill: Glucose, juice, etc. Retest in 15 minutes. Still low. Repeat. Same with a high...Take large dose of insulin. Test in 30-60minutes. Keep testing until back in range.

My current Rx allows for 700 strips for a 30 day period.

You can see why I was upset when I received a letter saying I would now only be covered for
no more than 200 strips/30 days.

After calling my health insurance company, the rep confirmed that it was due to the new health care reform. Insurance companies had to reevaluate certain drugs and cut back.

So, apparently the Food and Drug Administration recommends only testing your blood sugar 6 times a day.
Really? And what does the American Diabetes Association recommend?
What about my endocrinologist who is a Diabetes Specialist, M.D., Ph.D., FACP, Professor and Director of the Kovler Diabetes Center out of the University of Chicago?
What does he recommend?

A LOT MORE THAN 6 times a day!!!!

I'm tired of the FDA approving chemicals, hormones, and antibiotics in our food, but putting limits on me and not thinking its a good idea to take care of my Diabetes.

I'm not scamming the system. I'm a hard working American who has always had a job, so I could make money, pay my bills, and yes, because I have Diabetes, unfortunately, health insurance is a big factor in where I work and what I do.

I test a lot, and it's not always fun, but I'm trying to do the best I can to be the healthiest I can.

The good thing is that this doesn't go into affect until April and my doctor can write a letter stating why he thinks it's necessary for me to test more than 6 times a day.

The letter of medical necessity will be reviewed by the Prescription Research Team and they will decide whether or not my full RX will be covered.

The letter that was sent stated I could still order my full RX, but I would then pay out of pocket for anything over 200 strips....that's $500/month!!!

It was an overwhelming day thinking about all of this and day dreaming about the worst case scenario.
I sent a tweet to the White House before getting into bed. I know, it's a long shot.

Jen Enger (sunnyside_life) on Twitter: sunnyside_life Jen Enger
@whitehouse/usg just got denied coverage 4 basic diabetes supplies ive used 4 22yrs due 2 healthcare reform. Thanks a lot!!!
13 hours ago

I started to cry as I lay in bed thinking, "I'm just so tired of Diabetes".
Derek wrapped his arms around me and said, "Oh Jenny, it's ok. The Bears might win it next year."
Of course I laughed, and through my snots and tears said, "I know, but I just figured I'd cry it out for the both of us."
And before he fell asleep, he pulled me in closer and sang, "Ooooh child, things are gonna get easier, oooh child, things will get brighter."

I LOVE MY HUSBAND!

I woke up to an email from my mom with this quote from Tony Evans:
"When God allows trouble in your life, He has a purpose. Dignify your difficulty by finding meaning in the trial."

I know God is BIGGER than the health care system.
All I can do is pray...and enjoy my husband's bedtime serenades!!!!

AS IF HAVING DIABETES WASN'T WEIRD ENOUGH...

2011-01-27T08:22:00.000-06:00

There's a lot to deal with when having Diabetes.
It's there 24/7 and you can never just turn it off.
My mind is always thinking of the next step, next blood sugar, next meal, amount of carbs, how much insulin to give, how much is already on board, what will my activity level look like today...

To the average on-looker, Diabetes may not make sense, may seem scary, weird even.

So it's situations like this that make me throw my hands up in the air and scream: "As is Diabetes wasn't weird enough..."

------------------------------------------------------------------

My breakfast consisted of a small package of peanut butter crackers and a shot of Kefir. I didn't plan ahead, so I just grabbed whatever I could find in the pantry.

source

As I got closer to work, I could feel my stomach rumbling and attacking my insides. I debated about stopping for coffee or just waiting and grabbing my favorite tea latte from the cafe at work.

As I pulled into the parking garage it dawned on me that I could get an entire breakfast at the cafeteria for the same price as a Starbucks latte.

So, for $3.85 I picked up a deluxe omelet (with onions, tomatoes, green peppers, mushrooms, and cheese), 2 turkey sausage patties, a piece of toast with blackberry jam, and a diet coke.

I settled into my desk to start my day.
Taking a big cheesy bite of omelet with ketchup... I began to choke.
The bite was just too big and all of a sudden I found myself drowning in cheese as the room spun.

Trying not to make a big scene I did what I could to swallow it all, with the assistance of some diet coke.
It didn't go as planned, causing it all to go in the wrong direction.
My breakfast didn't come out, rather, it went back and then up.
I could feel the ketchup burning in my nostrils and my face felt like it was on fire.

source

My eyes started tearing up but I remained calm.
For the next 30 minutes,
I proceeded to blow ketchup and bits of egg out of my nose.

The weird feeling in my throat just wouldn't go away and I finally mustered up the courage to do a half snort/half clearing of my throat.
Down came the final chunks of my omelet...up my nose...down my throat...and back into my stomach where it belonged.

I often think I should be exempt from getting "real people sick" like with a cold or the flu.
I spend 365 days a year dealing with managing Diabetes, the least I ask for is to not have to deal with any other kind of health issue.

And today, after spending a half hour trying to rid my nasal cavities of my breakfast I thought....could I be exempt from anything weird like this happening again...
Diabetes is weird enough.

Next time I'll opt for the tea latte.

source

THE PASSING OF A LEGEND...

2010-12-03T12:11:00.000-06:00

(source)

When I was a little girl,
I went to a signing around Christmas time.
He autographed a picture and I gave him a box of sugar-free candy canes.
I was nervous to meet him,
but excited that we had Diabetes in common.

Whenever games were on cable,
Derek and I would listen on the radio
and crack up at his enthusiastic commentary.
Most times when the games were on TV,
we'd still listen on the radio, just to hear him.

And this morning I teared up,
listening to the news reporters
speak so highly of a great legend who passed away
... Ron Santo.

(source)

One of the greatest 3rd basemen to play for the Cubs.
The greatest Cubs fan there ever was.
The heart and soul of the Chicago Cubs.

It's always exciting to see or hear about an athlete with Diabetes.
It's hard enough dealing with wacky blood sugars during a 30 minute run,
or an hour long yoga class.

So, my respect and admiration go out to
athletes with Diabetes who put their bodies through
discipline and physical training
year round, for a living.

(source)

Ron Santo was quiet about having Diabetes during the years he played.
Back in the 70's he gauged his blood sugar levels based on his moods.
If he felt he was going low, he would eat a candy bar during a game!
He ended up getting both legs amputated due to Diabetes complications.
We've sure come a long way!

The world definitely knows the triumphs and struggles Santo had with Diabetes
as he's played such a big part in raising money, awareness, & research
with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

It's been a while since I've done a Ron Santo Diabetes Walk-a-thon.
I think I'll do that this year.

(source)

Come on Cubbies,
let's win it this year for Ron Santo...
A great man and legend who will be missed by all!

(source)

A LITTLE BEHIND...

2010-11-17T12:39:00.000-06:00

I've always been a little behind.

I didn't really go through a pink/girly/ballerina/princess stage
until I graduated from college.
(Most girls hit that around 5 years old or so).

Now that I've been out of college for 7 years,
I think I know what I want to do with my life,
and where I'd go to school, what I'd study, etc.
if I had the chance to do it all over again.

The first night my mom met Derek (back in 2001) she went home and prayed
that I'd marry someone just like him someday.
We were just friends at the time.

For 3 years
(when Derek and I lost contact due to life getting busy and his phone getting stolen,
causing him to lose my #)
my mom proceeded to ask me what Derek was up to and why I hadn't called him or hung out with him.
It was 3 years late,
but I finally called him to catch up...and we eventually started dating.

A year and 1 week from there, we were engaged

And 11 months from there we were married

We spent a quick weekend in Lake Geneva right after our wedding,
unable to take a "real" honeymoon.

And now that it's 2 1/2 years later, we're jetting off on our official honeymoon.
A quick trip to Miami (yes, for the Bears game)...and then some time in Sanibel Island.

Hey, better late than never!!!

TIS THE SEASON...FOR SWEET POTATOES

2010-11-16T10:36:00.000-06:00

I was so excited when Cristy from the
North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission contacted me.

They are currently reaching out to diabetic bloggers in an effort to teach the diabetic community about the benefits of sweet potatoes in our diet.

What perfect timing with Thanksgiving coming up, my itch to try new recipes, my constant quest to live and eat healthier, and my new found love for sweet potatoes!

My Sweet Potato Package arrived last week at work.

Was it rude of me to not share my sweet potato biscotti with my co-workers?!?!

I took it home, ate some biscotti, looked over the recipes and drooled, ate some more biscotti, and read the material on the health benefits of adding Sweet Potatoes to your diet, particularly for those with Diabetes.

So stay tuned for more info, some delicious recipes, and good 'ol fun with sweet potatoes!!!

***I may or may have not eaten ALL of the sweet potato biscotti...but I'll never tell***

FRIDAY FAVES: Sweet Potato Fries

2010-11-12T14:17:00.000-06:00

There's nothing like a cheeseburger, fries, and diet coke.
Sometimes I just CRAVE it (even if it's from the $1 menu at McDonald's!).
Of course it is better from a sit-down restaurant...with ranch and avocado.

Being on a budget, we try our best to do all of our cooking at home, so we've been excited to have a weekly burger and fries night at home...just us and our trusty 'ol George Foreman grill :)

In working on getting my a1c down, losing weight, and being healthier
in general, I've traded in my cheeseburgers for salmon burgers
(Derek is still sticking with his weekly cheddar bacon burgers)
and instead of french fries,
we enjoy a healthy side of SWEET POTATO FRIES!!!!

I first experimented with Sweet Potato Fries this summer after reading about them on blogs.
I googled a recipe and got to work:
peeling, chopping,
seasoning (olive oil, salt, cinnamon, paprika...), and baking.

The results were tasty, but
after too many run-ins involving my fingers and the knife,
I knew there had to be a better way!

On a random trip to the Jewel, I spotted them...
Sweet Potato Fries,
already chopped, peeled, and seasoned,
in the freezer section!!!

From there, we branched out to other variations
found at Whole Foods
(Chipotle Seasoned, Crinkle Cut, Waffle Cut, etc...)

Prices range anywhere from
$1.89 (Aldi) to $4.39 (Waffle Cut, Whole Foods) per 1 pound bag.
And just when we thought it couldn't get any better,
they arrived at Costco!!!

For $5.89 for 4 pounds, we've found our best deal yet...and it will last us for a month.
That's right, 1 pound of french fries
shared between the 2 of us each week!
(That's for dinner 1 night and leftovers for lunch the following day).

These delicious sweet potato fries have filled me up at meals,
been gracious to my blood sugar, are easy to count out,
making carb counting quick and painless,
and have added health benefits, with wonderful nutrients, and vitamins.
And with Thanksgiving around the corner, sweet potatoes are in season.

Ladies and Gentleman,
please give it up for
my current Friday Fave....Sweet Potato Fries!!!

Happy Friday...
now go enjoy some Sweet Potato Fries!

BIG BLUE, PART 2

2010-11-05T12:53:00.000-05:00

I'm well aware that I have never been without any medical supplies.
Growing up my dad had amazing health insurance coverage and we had closets (yes, plural) filled with supplies.
Now grown up and on my own insurance,
I am again, blessed with everything I need.

* All it took was a phone call from my doctor to get set up with sensors and my continuous glucose monitor.
* My pump just ran out of warranty in August.
* One phone call and I was upgraded to the newest model.
* I even got to choose the color I wanted (pink!), and it was sent to my work just days later.
* My insurance was so good in fact, that after turning in my old pump, I had a credit of money on my account...so essentially, I got paid to go on an upgraded pump.

Not everyone is as fortunate
and some even lack a basic needle and vial of insulin they need to keep them alive!!!

BUT...many people and various organizations have come together to make it possible for children with Diabetes in some of the poorest countries to receive the insulin they need.

And to make it happen, all you need to do is watch this video:

Up until November 14th (World Diabetes Day), money will be donated to this cause.
Read the press release here to find out more info:
Thanks for doing your part.

GO BIG BLUE!!!! :)

BIG BLUE

2010-11-04T10:29:00.000-05:00

You know when you're watching football on tv and they announce the players?
Not at the beginning of the game where they run onto the field, but when a little square pops up at the bottom of the screen and a video plays.
Each player says his name and where he went to college.
Know what I'm talking about???

Football season is big around our home and if you were to sit down and watch a game with Derek and I, you'd hear me start to giggle when these videos pop up.
Some of the guys say some funny stuff or refer to their college as THE such and such.

Derek's Graduation, TIU, May 2003
(I graduated later that December).
[We were just friends here :) ]

It's funny, but that's not why I'm laughing.

I'm laughing, because I'm getting myself ready to keep a straight face and ask Derek how he'd say our college if he were an NFL player (playing for the Bears of course).

Being the great husband that he is he plays along...

"Derek Enger. BIG BLUE, TIU".

Yes, those were our Halloween costumes!
Derek was a Chicago Bears football player
(the pants and socks were actually worn by real Bears players,
bought at a fan convention) and I was a fan

I don't know if anyone else refers to Trinity International University as the Big Blue...but we do.

This month BIG BLUE has a much greater meaning as November is Diabetes Month...(and blue is the official color that is associated with it).
But more on that later...

HAPPY FRIDAY EVE!!!

SOME WEEKS ARE HARDER THAN OTHERS...

2010-10-25T12:55:00.002-05:00

I turned the lights off and crawled into bed last night (MUCH later than I had wanted), while an episode of Fresh Prince of Belair played in the background.

He knew I was upset, so despite being exhausted, he stayed up and waited for me to come to bed.

I'm sure he heard me crying just a few rooms away, as I sat on the pantry floor, putting in a new needle, after discovering problems with my current infusion site.

“Are you ok?” he asked.

"Yeah" (I lied).

“Are you crying?”

"Yeah", I sniffled as snots came pouring out of my nose.

“Do you wanna come over here and cuddle?” he asked (I could hear the smile on his face), as he pulled me toward him, forcing me to cuddle.

"ok" I whispered, like a little girl, beginning to uncontrollably weep.

He wrapped his arms around me tightly, making me feel safe. "Did you get a new needle in?" he said calmly. I knew he was trying to help me see something good at the moment.

"yeah" I whispered again.

"Then everything is going to be ok," he calmly rationalized.

"I’m just really frustrated." I began to weep even harder.

“I understand,” he sympathized.

"I’m tired of poking myself". I whined, again like a little girl.

“I understand,” He said again.

Diabetes has been kicking my butt this week. Not so much as far as blood sugar goes. It’s the emotional side of it all that has taken a toll on me lately.

First, there was the awful news of Eilish, then going through 4 failed and painful sensors in 24 hours, and now a late night infusion set issue.

It’s weeks like this that make me feel like it’s just too overwhelming.

It’s too much work, and I’m tired of it.

I don’t wanna poke myself anymore.

I don’t wanna measure and weigh and count the carbs of every stinkin thing I put into my mouth.

I don't wanna plan out my every move, constantly thinking about where my blood sugar is at.

I don't wanna be reminded of the complications of living with Diabetes for 21 years that are possibly waiting around the corner for me.

I know I shouldn’t “give up”…and I’m certainly not…it just feels like this week, Diabetes wins.

Sometimes I just need to cry it out. I need to get mad and say, "It's not fair, I didn't ask for this, why me..." I need Derek to hold me and to listen to me while I'm upset, and to tell me he understands.

...but then I need to get up, determined to not let Diabetes upset me or stop me from doing anything I want to do.

So I woke up this morning, knowing it was a brand new day, and everything seemed a little bit better.

Psalm 30:5b "Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning."

LIFE GETS BUSY

2010-10-15T15:54:00.001-05:00

I've been a bad blogger.

I've continued to read blogs each day, but I've just been too busy to keep up with my own.

Here's a little bit of what I've been busy with...

Traveling all over "France" with Carly.

Attending Renegade, an amazing craft fair, where I met the famous Elsie & Katie.

Celebrating my Grandma FINALLY retiring.

Hanging out with friends, watching the Bears win,
and eating fattening foods
in Dallas that kicked my blood sugar's butt.

Closing out the Summer at Ravinia with Dave & Jenny.

Hanging out with friends...who ALL have kids!
Yes, we were the only couple there without kids, and Yes,
we're OK with that :)

And getting blisters and black feet from walking
ALL over NYC!!!
Yes, we may have attended a football game,
but I don't wanna talk about it :(

What have you been up to lately?!?!
...off to another busy and fun weekend.

FRESH & HEALTHY

2010-09-29T13:02:00.001-05:00

I've heard the advice that you should never go grocery shopping when hungry.
But I'm stronger than that!
I've got will-power!

...apparently not today!

An early lunch just didn't cut it today and while I was grocery shopping on my break, picking up a few last minute things for our upcoming trip to New York, I saw an item
I just HAD to get.

And so in addition to our healthy dinner of Tilapia, Organic Brown Rice, and Edemame, we will also we dining on a side of...

battered, breaded, deep fried, Buffalo-Style popcorn shrimp!!!

(An item that will do wonderful things for my blood sugar shorty after consuming!!!).

Ya know, the good stuff with ingredients like Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Modified Food Starch, Maltodextrin, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, and Sodium Bisulfite.

What?! Don't judge! The last 2 ingredients are simply to "retain moisture" and are added "as a preservative".

I guess there's always tomorrow to start fresh and healthy!!!

ITS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

2010-09-23T08:32:00.001-05:00

Fall is by far my favorite season...

Pumpkin Spice Lattes and colorful scarves

Zucchini muffins

Chili

Honey crisp Apples and Almond Butter

Football Games (including away games, traveling all over the USA to follow the Bears)

...more on our trip to Dallas later.

Happy Fall Everyone!!!

SOMETHING NEW

2010-09-17T11:47:00.001-05:00

New name, new look, new feel (same websight, same author, same topics).

I was bored and needed a change.

~~...But the picture is HUGE!~~
~~I can't seem to get it smaller.~~
~~Can anyone help???~~
I spend my entire lunch break figuring out how to finally resize the picture. Oh well! It's done!

I've been so behind in blogging...and I'm not gonna catch up this weekend.

Off to see Dave Matthews at Wrigley Field tonight and then to Dallas for a long weekend to cheer on the Bears with my hubby!

What are your weekend plans???
Whatever you're doing...Enjoy your weekend!!!

PURE SOPHISTICATION

2010-09-02T15:47:00.000-05:00

What's a girl to do when her husband is at a Fantasy Football Draft Party???

Dine on fine cuisine...

Dabble in the arts...

Invest in highly intellectual reading...

Get back in touch with my roots...

Watch a documentary on love...

Yes, while my husband was eating pizza, talking football, and hanging with the guys...I was being far more sophisticated.

*Diabetic Bloggers....how in the world do you bolus for sushi and California rolls? I have always just guessed...and then inevitably had to correct later. I can't figure out the carb content for this stuff for the life of me. HELP!!!

DIABETES ART DAY

2010-09-01T10:54:00.001-05:00

It's finally here, September 1st...the first official Diabetes Art Day!!!

Lee Ann, Diabetes blogger and art therapist of The Butter Compartment had this great idea to take a day and celebrate and express Diabetes through art.

Check out how other bloggers are celebrating here. Unfortunately, you won't find anything from me...I've procrastinated once again and never got around to creating anything. I originally had this great idea of incorporating all of my Diabetes paraphernalia and creating this breath-taking masterpiece.

Instead, bare with me while I share a few thoughts on art and Diabetes.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Diabetes involves a lot of science. We know type 1 diabetes (also known as Juvenile Diabetes) is caused by a process in the body where the body's own immune system mistakenly destroys the insulin-producing (or beta) cells, and occurs in genetically predisposed individuals. It is still unknown what causes this autoimmune destruction process, but some would argue that environmental factors are to blame.

Either way, a person with type 1 Diabetes like myself, is now left to manually inject themselves with insulin that their pancreas no longer produces. Diabetes. A chronic, autoimmune disease...science!

While science is greatly involved in getting Diabetes, living with Diabetes is truly an art. In my experience, it takes a lot of creativity to successfully live with Diabetes, while managing it well...and not going insane :)

It's an art balancing diet, exercise, insulin dosages, blood sugar management...and getting all of your healthy veggies in.

There's an art to sticking loads of spinach, other greens, and fresh fruit into breakfast smoothies, making sure to get all the nutrients I need, without taking in too many carbs that spike my blood sugar. There's also an art to making brussel sprouts tasty using butter and roasted almonds (a wonderful recipe from my gma).

There's an art to getting dressed in the morning. Not because I'm this amazing fashionista...but because I have 2 needles in my stomach that can get irritated if clothing is too tight or rubbed the wrong way. And I have tubing and wiring that needs to be tucked away somewhere. And I have an insulin pump that needs to be clipped somewhere...preferably not exposed to keep it protected, but easily accessible so I can push the buttons and read the screen when I need to.

(That's why this dress with pockets from Anthropologie is perfect...and why I need to take up sewing)!

It's an art educating people about diabetes and talking to others about my experience living with it. It's an artistic balance letting others know what I go through on a daily basis while not flailing my arms in the air, crying and making people feel sorry for me...while at the same time, not playing it off like it's really no big deal at all.

It truly is an art as I go about my daily routines, adjusting to what life and Diabetes throws at me each day. It can be an art to stay upbeat sometimes when nothing seems to be going right, blood sugars are high and low, and all I want to do is crawl back into bed.

Yes, Diabetes is a science...but surviving, thriving, and living with it is truly an art.

I am a masterpiece...God's work of art...Diabetes included!

IT'S A LOVE-HATE RELATIONSHIP...WITH MY BANGS

2010-08-23T16:32:00.000-05:00

Dear Bangs,

In case you haven't noticed, I have a huge love-hate relationship with you.

I mean, Bangs, you're trendy and cute and in-style. You add that little extra-something without getting too drastic...what's not to love about you?!

But Bangs, my husband prefers to have me all to himself... without you. He hasn't actually asked me to break things off, but just prefers me to be without you. I hope you can understand!

And the more I think about it, Bangs, you make my forehead sweat and grease up.

You're too hot for the Summer, but ooooh, Fall is coming up and it's my favorite time of year. By the time I'm done going to football games, drinking pumpkin spice lattes, watching the leaves change and making chili, I have a feeling I'll be bored and antsy...and I may even take things into my own hands as I have so many times...and bring you back into my life!

But for now, I will slowly part ways with you.

We're really coming to the end you know. It's getting kinda messy...even ugly. You're slowly fading away from a cute side Bang.

Now you're too long to look cute, but too short to do much with aside from clipping you back and forgetting about you.

So we'll tangle and weave our way around together and hold on for the last few moments that we have...until you're gone for good (or until I get bored AGAIN).

Then someday soon, my hair will be all grown out and long and our days together will be a thing of the past.

Oh Bangs, it's not you...it's me.

I hope we can still be friends!

Love, Jen.

FRIDAY FAVES: CUGINI!!!

2010-08-20T12:48:00.001-05:00

* With a week full of new weekly blog segments (found here and here)...we might as well end with another one...FRIDAY FAVES!

Yes, yet another segment to add to the list to keep me busy blogging away.

As opposed to my WEDNESDAY WISHLIST, where I blog about what I'm wishing for...this will be a segment of recent finds, things, places, etc. that are my favorite.

Without further ado, my current FRIDAY FAVE...

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I can't imagine life without them. We grew up having sleepovers every weekend, getting together at Grandma's once a month for homemade ravs. We played handball in the basement and laughed all day long.

They were ALL involved in our wedding, and I couldn't have imagined the special day without them.

When I roll over in the morning as I'm waking up, I first see Derek... and then a picture of them on the wall just above Derek's head.

We've had many celebrations, lots of laughter, and few tears together.

They are...MY CUGINI!!! (which mean COUSINS...in Italian).

The timing couldn't be more perfect for the cugini picnic! We have our more extended cugini with us...me and my cousins and our parents' cousins and kids. The group keeps growing.

We eat, laugh, eat, play bacci ball, eat, and enjoy being together every summer. Did I mention we like to eat a lot?!?! We're ITALIAN! (and yes, several of us have DIABETES...both types 1 and 2).

Looking forward to a weekend of lots of food & family
...and the first home pre-season Bears game.

What are your current Friday Faves?

WEDNESDAY WISHLIST

2010-08-18T16:18:00.000-05:00

*Wednesday Wishlist is another weekly feature I'd like to add to the blog...because who doesn't like to day dream and wish for things?!?!

With only 1 Wednesday Wishlist behind me, and without further ado...I continue to Wish-Away!!!*

If money were no issue, everyone was fed, and there was Peace on Earth…I would wish for:

(As ALWAYS)
...a new, healthy, insulin producing
and functioning Pancreas

(source)

AND...a vacation to France.

(+)

Sometimes it would be nice to just take a vacation away from Diabetes...but that can't happen since Diabetes fights for my attention 24/7/365. And ironically, taking trips and going on vacation usually makes Diabetes more of a pain
+ packing extra supplies,
+ going through Airport Security,
+ unusual eating schedules and activities, etc.

Fortunately, I was able to go to France with a friend yesterday
...without even leaving the city!

I promise to post more later, pictures and all!

Happy Wednesday!!! What are you Wishing for?!?!

THINGS ARE LOOKING UP

2010-08-17T12:42:00.000-05:00

"Looks like things are really looking up".
A phrase often said when things go from bad to good (or at least, better).

For me this possitive phrase had quite a different meaning the other morning.

My normal routine is to wake up at 5:45am, stumble into the kitchen to grab a protein cookie, stumble into the front room to read my Bible (while eating my protein cookie), and stumble back into the bedroom by 6:20am to wake up Derek.

(+)

I've found that the protein cookie is the ONLY thing that I can eat for breakfast that doesn't make my blood sugars spike shortly after...which then comes plumeting down an hour later. I've tried EVERYTHING...eggs, fruit, yogurt, cereal.

Derek had the day off, so I decided to let myself sleep in a little bit longer, ignoring the 5:45am alarm, and slowly rolling out of bed shortly after 6:20am.

I definitely ran at a bit of a slower pace as the intense heat was making me so lethargic. AND I spent most of the morning wiping away the sweat that was literally dripping off of my face.

I only had time to grab a granola bar on my way out to the car.
Quaker Oats.
Chocolate Chip.
17 grams of carbs.
2.1 units of insulin
...and I was off to work.

(+)

Looked down at my pump (which communicates with my CGM...continuous glucose monitor) shortly after getting to work...and things surely seemed to be looking up...

Oh come on! 246??? Double arrow up? (which means my blood sugarwas increasing quickly, by at least 40 in the last 20 minutes)

But never fear...a little bit of insulin and shortly, things were looking up...well, actually (literally) down...which was a good thing... so I was looking Up.

IT'S A LOVE-HATE RELATIONSHIP: BLOGS

2010-08-16T13:13:00.002-05:00

While "Just another Manic Monday" plays through my head...I introduce you to a new segment on this blog: Love-Hate Mondays.

I previously wrote about my love-hate relationship with Whole Foods here...and in doing so, have realized that I have many of these love-hate relationships.

I figured Mondays would be the best time to confess these love-hate issues since I have my own love-hate relationship with Mondays.

Who doesn't HATE Mondays...because, well, they're Mondays??? The weekend is over!!!
...but who doesn't LOVE a fresh new start to the week. New goals, new plans, a new start.

So, without further ado...my love-hate relationship with BLOGS.

Dear Blogs,

I love you and I hate you.

I love the inspiration I receive from the artsy blogs, the encouragement I receive from the DOC (Diabetes Online Community), the motivation I receive from the foodie/healthy living blogs, the inspiration I receive
from the marriage blogs, and the love I receive from my friends and family's blogs.

And I have you Blogs all organized in Google Reader, alerting me just like email when a new post is available to read.

But Blogs...I hate the time it takes to read you every day.

Over 100 blog posts on average to read every day. Yikes!

And Blogs...you make me jealous, especially when I follow the lives of people who get to blog for a living!!! Oh, what dream...to get paid to blog?!?!?

But Blogs, I keep on reading and I keep on writing...and life goes on...even though I can't decide whether I hate you more or love you more.

Blogs...it's not you. It's me! I hope we can still be friends!

Love, Jen

p.s... read about why I continue to blog here.

A MONTHLY WOMAN THING

2010-08-12T13:23:00.001-05:00

I look forward to it EVERY month.

Honestly, I do.

It's necessary in every woman's life.

It's the way its supposed to be.

It's refreshing, like the perfect cup of tea.

It's comforting, like your favorite pair of slippers.

It's satisfying, like an egg white omlette with feta, spinach, and gyro meat.

...it's my monthly breakfast with Bonnie and Trish!!!
(What? Did you think I was talking about something else???)

We make it a habit to meet once a month at Elly's pancake house.
We get our usual omletes, catch up on the past 30 days, and laugh ourselves silly.
The time always goes by way too fast!

Trish and I go way back to elementary school. We first met in 2nd grade, BEFORE I had Diabetes. And she was even in my class the following year in 3rd grade when I was diagnosed. She was there when I read a cartoon children's book to my classmates about what Diabetes is...and she's remained my friend to this day. She constantly encourages me in my goals toward better health. She now has a classroom of kids of her own as she's the best teacher any kid could ever have...and she's the kindest, sweetest, and gentlest woman you'll ever meet!

Bonnie and I first met at Basketball camp the summer before our freshman year of high school. We hit it off and have been friends ever since. She's an amazing pharmacist and great at what she does. She listens to me ramble on and on about my health, answers every question I have about medicine interactions, and she checks up with me on my A1c. Shes mom to one of the cutest kids you'll ever see...and she's the funniest, honest, and most loyal friend you could ever have.

We've been through marriage, pregnancy, sickness, and health together. I am a better person because of these women and truly blessed to have them as my friends.

I was so excited to meet up with them this past month, I left the house without even changing out of my slippers.

And after we met up, I went off to run errands and grocery shop. I got some funny looks in my jean skirt, tank top, and SLIPPERS...but it only made me smile and think of Bonnie and Trish!

I don't know what I'd do without these girls!!!

BALLIN ON A BUDGET FOR A BIRTHDAY.

2010-08-11T12:41:00.000-05:00

If you are on a budget and you want to surprise your husband for his birthday, you should...

Find out the name of that book that he's been looking for.

See if they have it at a used book store.

Of course, you'll have to pay in cash since anything you debit, he'll see! He does such a good job budgeting and keeping an eye on everything that goes in and out of the bank accounts.

If you don't have any cash on hand, you can break into the change buckets, hoping he doesn't keep too close of an eye on those!

You can also make an attempt at your first cheesecake since it's his favorite.

You can always count on the fact that your family won't pass up an opportunity to treat him (and you) to Superdawg!

And you can also be thankful that his family threw him a birthday party.

Looks like another birthday success!

THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN

2010-08-09T13:18:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again.
The beginning of the end. It came so quickly.
Somehow the Summer flew by again.
I didn't even go to the beach, didn't make it to any farmer's markets. I don't have a tan...
but I'm ok.
The leaves will soon change. The cool breeze will blow while I wear comfy sweaters and eat chili.
And...fall will be in full swing.

Training camp always marks the end of summer and the beginning of Derek's favorite season...FOOTBALL!

We made our annual trek to BEARbonnais last week to watch the guys practice.

After the hour or so drive, we were ready for all things blue and orange.

Maybe a little TOO much blue and orange!!!

The Hills joined us again this summer (while Jenny was at work).

They know this is serious business, so they were ready to take pictures, get autographs, and cheer on the Bears with us!

We watched them run plays.

And do drills.

(These guys are HUGE! I wouldn't want to get in their way!).

Some of the guys stuck around after practice to sign autographs.

And some even took pictures with us.

It was another great day at ONU

Dave, class of 1996, Jake, class of 2024, Abby, class of 2026

It was a busy, but fun day.

Have I mentioned before on this blog that I really like Jay Cutler???

We didn't get his autograph this time, so I now carry a silver sharpie with me everywhere...just in case I happen to bump into him.

I'd have him sign my insulin pump!

You think I'm kidding...but check my purse next time you're with me.

It's true.

...and now you think I'm crazy!

If I did see him, I'd give him a big hug (after he signed my pump of course)

and I'd thank him for all that he's doing for kids with Diabetes.

Then I'd pat him on the butt and say..."Now come on Jay! Let's go get some touchdowns!"

...and so another season begins!

RUSH HOUR RAMBLINGS

2010-08-06T07:59:00.000-05:00

Driving home along Lake Shore Drive from my doctor's appointment last week, was almost therapeutic. Lake Michigan looked so peaceful as I thought through my test results, my conversation with Amy, my CDE (Certified Diabetes Educator), the amazing team at the Kovler Diabetes Center.

For the first time in along time, I didn't cry or get overwhelmed. My health didn't seem like a disaster. I didn't feel like my body was a toxic, ticking time-bomb, unable to potentially hold a baby some day.

I left feeling very hopeful.

Amy made me feel like I wasn't crazy (with my million questions and concerns).

She helped me see how all of my goals were attainable.

My A1c dropped by 1.1%. My goal is to drop it another 1.7% by my next appointment.

I was satisfied knowing my hard work had paid off.

Of course there is always work to do. Reaching one goal doesn't mean slacking off. It only means hitting the next goal and tightening things up even more

Diabetes is 24/7/365. That's just the way it is.

I'm excited to continue pushing on.

For now, I have goals and a direction, and I'm excited to make positive strides in my Diabetes and health.

I'm so blessed to have friends, family, and the DOC (Diabetes Online Community) in this with me.

p.s...I don't recommend or endorse taking pictures while driving your car...I'm just saying!

30 YEARS YOUNG

2010-08-05T08:35:00.001-05:00

30 years ago a great man was born.

He is one of the most selfless people I know.

He constantly gives of himself, his posessions, his truck, etc. to help others.

He is sympathetic and caring.

He is strong and athletic.

He loves God with all of his heart.

During his commute to work on the train, he spends it reading his Bible.

On our wedding night, he washed my feet and told me he wants to spend his life serving me just like Jesus did.

He is the funniest guy I know. He makes me laugh EVERY day and he works extra hard at it on days that I'm grumpy.

It doesn't freak him out when I cry (which I do a lot).

He is totally HOT!

When I say, "I think I'm low". He always says, "Like Shorty?"

(you know...the song, "Shorty got low, low, low..."???).

And if my blood sugar really is low, he gets me juice and my meter.

He puts up with me turning on the light to test my blood sugar in the middle of the night.

He's not grossed out by all of my needles and Diabetes paraphanalia (at least he pretends he's not).

He is amazingly gifted at math and constantly helps me figure out measurements and carbs.

He makes my brother and sister laugh..and that warms my heart.

He playfully calls me Jenny (and I LOVE it)!

He's passionate about the Chicago Bears and faithfully roots them on every season.

He loves his family.

I admired him in college when we were just friends.

Now that he's my best friend, I adore and love him with all of my heart!

Happy 30th Birthday Derek...here's to another 30+ years!!!

BRUNCH, BIRTHDAYS, & BEHAVING BLOOD SUGARS

2010-07-29T13:23:00.000-05:00

It's amazing how a number (blood sugar) can totally affect my mood. It can cause me to cheer and celebrate...and it can bring me to tears.

It can be a tricky balance this Diabetes stuff.

Weighing and measuring food. Counting Carbs. Figuring out insulin ratios (although not that hard with the Pump Bolus Wizard). Exercising...but NOT when you're too high...and NOT when you're too low.

But celebrating is called for when you have moments of getting it right!

This past weekend consisted of celebrating as we went to lunch for my aunt's 50th birthday.

Off we went to Schaumburg Marriott's Renaissance Sam & Harry's.

Cousins. In-laws. Grandma's. Sisters. Mothers. Daughters. Friends.

Delicious Tea. Accidentally squirting lemon juice in my mom's eye while preparing delicious tea. OOOOPS!

A private room surounded by glass filled with cases of wine.

A surprise cake.

Egg white omlette made to order with spinach, peppers and onions
& fancy condiments on the side.

The most heavenly grits you've ever had...and I'm normally not a grits fan.

Fruit and cheese platters to die for.

I kept one eye on my food and one eye on my continuous glucose monitor (CGM) the entire morning, stalking my blood sugars, daring them to ruin my brunch!

And a celebration it was! Here's to another 50 years Auntie Donna! And here's to blood sugars that behave even during brunch!

(Take that bowl of grits with craisans on top!!!).

This calls for a celebration
...brunch anyone?!?!?

D-FEAST FRIDAY...

2010-07-23T07:48:00.001-05:00

Karen, of Bitter-Sweet Diabetes , Lorraine of This is Caleb, and Elizabeth, of Pieces of My Life came together to host D-Feast Friday today, where Diabetic bloggers are encouraged to post a recipe that works well with their meal planning, insulin giving, carb counting life with Diabetes.

(source)

The Protein Cookie is my current breakfast of choice! I first came across it on The Fitnessista's Blog. (A daily read that I LOVE!). Her blog is full of inspiring ways to eat and live a healthy life. Follow her and read about her own journey to health...along with other "food & fitness" bloggers I have listed on my blog roll.

This "cookie" keeps me full and satisfied and for some reason DOESN'T raise my blood sugar like a traditional bowl of oatmeal typically does.

The following recipe is how I make it, but it can be totally re-customized to fit your health needs and specific tastes.

Here goes...

Pour following DRY ingedients into a bowl:

and finally...

To dry mixture & add:

If you follow the recipe I just showed, using the same measurements and brands, you will get 34 grams of carbs.

Mix it up and add whatever you like, dark chocolate, 1/2 mashed banana, coconut, chia seeds...

The possibilities are endless!

I like to make 7 of these on a Sunday afternoon and I'm set for breakfast for the week!

Happy Friday...and Happy D-Feasting!!!

JUST ANOTHER DAY AT THE PARK...

2010-07-21T19:58:00.000-05:00

Swanky condos on 2 of the other sides of the park.

I sat down in a grassy area, ready to enjoy my lunch.

While shooing away bugs...

Good thing I hadn't already given myself some insulin (like you're supposed to do, ideally 15 minutes before eating).

...just another peaceful lunch break at the park.

I hope those French Bulldogs find their way over to where I was eating. A nice surprise awaits them full of brown rice, salmon, and broccoli.

Happy Wednesday. Here's to not crying over spilled...lunch!

CALM, COOL, COCONUT?!?!?!

2010-07-19T20:36:00.000-05:00

Are you staying cool and hydrated in this heat?!?!?

And if all the cool kids told you to drink vomit flavored water...would you do it?!?!?!?

Apparently I would... I did...and I am.

Coconut Water is all the rage these days. I've read about it on Fitness Blogs, in Health Magazines, and received coupons for it from Whole Foods.

It's been refered to as Nature's sports drink...a healthy alternative to gatorade.

Because I had a coupon, I tried it about a month ago. It really wasn't good. Like I said, vomit flavored water. Gross!!!

But here's the thing. This Chicago heat is killing me.

I'm pretty sure I was dehydrated this morning from the profuse sweating I did ALL weekend long.

What's a newlywed couple to do without air conditioning?

So.... to Whole Foods I stumbled, on my way in to work this morning...and there it was...a shelf full of ~~vomit~~ coconut water.

I thought if I tried a different brand this time, it would taste better.

But what brand did I get last time? NAKED? O.N.E? I'm pretty sure I hadn't tried O.N.E yet...and as I picked up the box, it was confirmed.

Logically I would buy the O.N.E brand...come on, it had an expiration date of 02-13-11 ...the date of my 30th bday!!!

The first sip was OK...but then, there it was...vomit!

I spent the rest of the day gagging down glasses of half ice water/half coconut water...because clear pee is good pee...and Coconut Water apparently keeps you fully hydrated.

I did feel better after drinking it...but we're just gonna borrow an extra fan from my in-laws and stick to water!

Don't worry...he's got on shorts! BUT BACK OFF LADIES!!!

Happy Monday...and here's to doing what you've got to do to stay cool!!!!

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS

2010-07-15T21:05:00.000-05:00

Sometimes there is just no rhyme or reason to blood sugars and Diabetes.
You can go "by the book" doing everything you're supposed to do and end up with awful results.
And then there are times you can "cheat" and everything turns out just right.

...and those are the nights (like last night) that I hope for a few seconds I've been miraculously cured!!!!

According to the Bolus Wizard on my pump,
I should've given myself some insulin to drop me down to 90-105
(the crazy ideal range my doctor has my pump settings at)
...but I chose not to.

If you had "Chocolatey Covered Pretzel Pieces And Rich Caramel Swirled in Caramel Ice Cream" in your freezer... you'd be craving this too late at night. Stop judging me...I only had 2 spoonfuls!

I should've beeen MUCH higher.

While I wasn't punished with high blood sugar in the morning,

I did come to find that I was punished with something else...

a freezer full of thawed food and a wet mess.

Yes, I had accidentally left the freezer slightly cracked open

when satisfying my ice cream craving the night before!!!

But, as the phrase goes...

"When Life Hands You Lemons, Make Lemonade!!!"

So we did what anyone else would do.

Gathered old books, dvds, cds, and videos that we've been meaning to get rid of.

Drove out to Skokie and sold them to our favorite used bookstore, getting $25 for them.

...leaving us enough $ to pay for a Chipotle dinner

AND

replace the meat we had to throw out.

What's the phrase???

"When Life Hands You Thawed Meat,

Eat Burritos"

WEDNESDAY WISHLIST

2010-07-14T18:15:00.005-05:00

If money were no issue, everyone was fed, and there was Peace on Earth…I would wish for:

1 of EVERYTHING from Anthropologie
(including this dress)

A Laguna Beach Summer Home

(source)

A Tassimo

(source)

Penguin Hardcover Classics Books
(bound with pretty covers)

(source)

And...a new, healthy, insulin producing
and functioning Pancreas

(source)

Happy Wednesday!!! What are you Wishing for?!?!

THE GOOD & THE BAD

2010-07-13T20:06:00.000-05:00

Diabetes can often be unpredictable. Some days its good, some days it's bad, and some days it's ugly!

But I guess that's how life in general is. You can cheer when it's good, dwell and focus on the bad, and cry when it gets ugly...or you can just be flexible and try to make the best of it all and learn along the way.

good: Last night I finally worked out again (and tonight I ran for 20 minutes). The first time in a long time!!! And my blood sugar didn't drop too low. Fluidity is this exercise equipment that I got suckered into buying while we were engaged. I would watch the info-mercial every Sunday morning as I got ready for church and just dreamed of having that long and lean ballerina look by the time I walked down the aisle.

bad: Not being consistent with doing the workout = not having that long and lean body the info-mercial promised. I guess those women really did do the workouts 2-3x every week??? And being 5' 1" , I guess there's never really gonna be anything l o n g about me- huh?!

good: Gardening! While our landlord is away for the week, we are keeping an eye on the lawn and garden. Sunday afternoon I spent some time outside watering the garden and picking out some veggies while Derek watered the front lawn.

Can you believe this came from a small rectangular area out back that is surrounded by cement, in the city, and sits alongside an ally??? MIRACULOUS!

bad: After our afternoon hard work of watering the garden and sprinkling the lawn, it down poured!!! We just shook our heads and laughed as we headed off to youth group.

good: Keeping the garden alive and well so you can enjoy dinner with fresh picked veggies!

bad: KILLING every plant your mother-in-law gives you!!!

So here's the plan: once we are able to keep a plant alive, we'll eventually work our way up to a dog and then if we survive that, we'll finally think about having a kid.

And that's why we're on the 5-year plan... Just kidding!

We're waiting because...we want some more time together to continue building our marriage, we want to get out of some debt, and right now, my Diabetes isn't where it needs to be at to be having kids. My doctor hasn't given me permission to get pregnant yet...but he has full confidence that we'll get there and will be able to have a healthy pregnancy.

So, in the next 3 years, I guess along with improving my Diabetes, I should look into improving my planting and gardening too! Huh?!

Here's to a good Tuesday!

SURPRISES

2010-07-12T20:15:00.001-05:00

People are usually surprised to know that I'm mostly Italian.

Maybe it's the REALLY pastey white skin, blonde hair, and green eyes that throw people off!

My mom is 100% Italian...making me 50%. My dad is 50% Swedish, 25% German, and 25% Norwegian. It's obvious that I inherited the Scandinavian traits.

However, I only get excited about celebrating my Swedish heritage when shopping at IKEA...sad but true.

(source)

One of our most recent IKEA purchases is this

Of course I was by myself when picking it up. I didn't get a cart and had to somehow lug it around the store. A little difficult seeing as it was as wide as my arm span.
And then when I finally got it out to the parking lot, it tuned out that it didn't even fit in our tiny car AND it started down pouring. I called my brother who doesn't live too far away and he came to my rescue in the IKEA parking lot with his suv.

The reason this picture was super exciting was because we had been on the hunt for a great skyline pic for 2 years now.

Our dining room is filled with Chicago pics on our walls...all taken by my wonderful husband who has a great eye for photography.

One other reason buying this picture was such a success was because I could finally remove the stuffed moose head that had been hanging in its place...wonderfully placed there by my funny husband.

I don't know where he got this moose head or why it's been his goal to place it in different areas of our apartment since we got married, including over our bed...but he's thoroughly enjoyed this.

Once the picture was put up, I very excitedly threw the moose head in the office/Chicago Bears Room/Derek's Man Cave...hoping that it would not make a return visit anywhere.

Of course, I should've known better.

I came home to this the other day.

At least he was considerate to leave our flower wreath up on the door too.

So we've compromised...as ridiculous as it is and as much as it caught our landlord by surprise the other day and made her stand at our front door laughing...we're keeping the stuffed moose/lovely flower wreath up on our door to greet all of our guests.

Some days no matter how much I "go by the book", Diabetes surprises me and throws me for loops...but most of the time it's Derek who lovingly surprises me...and I really don't mind!!!

Happy Monday!

It's a Love-Hate Relationship...WHOLE FOODS

2010-07-10T10:20:00.001-05:00

Whole Foods in Lincoln Park, Chicago...it's like no other WF I've been to.

(source)

With a trail mix bar, a grind your own nut butter station, mini chicago restaurants right in the store, a graffiti artist, music stage, wine and cheese bar, cafe, etc... it's quite the shopping experience!

Now I know WF is often called Whole Paycheck and I agree that yes, if you do ALL of your shopping here, you're gonna have to fork over your entire paycheck.

There are a few staples that I get from Whole Foods each month such as: ground flax seed, flax seed oil, probiotic vitamins, gluten free spinach & feta pizza, an occasional metro mint water (delicious), rice crackers, Lara Bars, etc.

Speaking of Lara Bars... Whole Foods-LP has an UH-MAY-ZING selection of them, as shown above!

These bars are one of the only gluten free granola bars that don't raise my blood sugar, are made with all natural ingredients that you can pronounce (usually only 3-4 different ingredients), and are 20-30 grams of carbs depending on which one you eat.

The Apple Pie tastes like Apple Pie.

The Banana Bread tastes like Banana Bread.

The PB&J tastes like PB&J.

"...and the snozzberries taste like snozzberries" (Willy Wonka).

So, while there are many things I love at WF...there is one aspect of the store that is going to be the death of me!!!

The DOWN escalator!!!

I'm so thankful for parking at this WF. It's rare to see a FREE parking garage in the city. So when I parked for the first time, I was amazed and grateful. However, when I walked through the door to see this escalator...I booked it for the elevator! I don't know why it's so scary to me. It's just REALLY steep, the area where you stand is SUPER thin, and I just can't do it!

Oh, I've tried, (several times) to get on...only to make myself look like a fool, putting my head down in shame, and walking over to the elevator where the other moms are getting on with their karts and kids...as I get on alone, holding one empty shopping bag, already starting my grocery shopping in defeat.

Alright, I know escalators don't have to be so dramatic...it's just that every time I ride one, going down, I feel like I'm gonna plumit to my death!

Ya know, every now and then I fear complications of Diabetes...kidney failure, blindness, leg amputations, etc...but mostly, I just fear the Whole Foods Lincoln Park Chicago down escalator. It's true!!!

The odd thing is, going UP is no problem!!!

So on my lunch break Friday, I grabbed some frozen organic strawberries (for making smoothies), an orange-mint water, gluten free spinach feta pizza, and 2 Lara Bars, met Ilene at the check-out register, handed the cashier my reusable shopping bag, paid, and made my way onto the escalator, going up...as if I had no known fears of escalators at all!

Ilene (visit her cute etsy shop here), enjoying a slice of WF veggie pizza.

Ilene and I drove back to work, discussing weekend plans, my weird fear of going down escalators, and our favorite OPI nail polish colors.

A successful lunch break.

Enjoy your weekend...and don't be afraid to share your weird fears with eachother :)

NOT PREGNANT!!!

2010-07-08T08:42:00.000-05:00

Just a clarification from my last blog post.

I was simply nauseous because...I don't know, I guess I just was.

Definitely not pregnant.

Just wanted to clarify since I had several people ask me!

Weekly Wish-list

2010-07-01T08:38:00.015-05:00

(source)

If I'm ever nauseous, one of these ginger candies does the trick. This magical sweet and spicy candy works every time...except for yesterday.

Out of nowhere I was super nauseous and felt like I could throw up all over the place (I know...nice way to start a blog post).

I ran out on my lunch break and got some crackers and diet 7-up...which is my next magical "go-to" for nausea.

With yesterday being payday, I was so upset that the first thing I spent part of my paycheck on was diet 7-up and crackers! It really shouldn't have upset me...it was only a little over $3...but we're trying to stay on a super tight budget so we can get out of debt and buy a home...every penny counts!

If money were no object right now and we didn't have to think of a budget I'd spend money on...

+ dresses w/pockets

(source)

I would cut a hole on the inside of the pocket, loop my tubing/insulin pump wire through the hole and clip my pump to the pocket. I've worn my pump under dresses in a garter/sling/holster type item around my thigh...not the most comfortable.

With my pump in my pocket, I could easily get to it to bolus for food or to check where my numbers are at via my CGM. GENIUS!!!

+ an English bulldog with an under bite.

(source)

+ a piano that I would paint. (This would be the centerpiece that the entire room would be decorated around).

(source)

+ an organic roof-top veggie garden, like the one at Uncommon Ground .

(source)

And I'd get an iced tea every morning on my way to work from The Goddess & the Grocer. (African Nectar is my new favorite tea).

(source)

Just a little day-dreaming on an ALMOST Friday-day.

Part Robot...Mostly Human

2010-06-30T08:40:00.006-05:00

Found this on another Diabetes blog I regularly read.

I've heard talk about this artificial pancreas in the past...but it's exciting to see we're a step closer to getting it!

It's amazing how far we've come! I gave myself my first shot when I was 8 years old...which I vivedly remember and from there took 3 shots a day until I turned 15 and got a pump.

Getting the insulin pump was life-changing...and I can't imagine not having it!

Take a look at the first insulin pump!

Yikes!!!

Ha!!! And I get frustrated sometimes with trying to figure out how to comfortably wear my pump with a dress! I have NOTHING to get frustrated about after looking at this picture.
(See other early models)

I'm currently looking into a pump upgrade...so thankful for my insurance coverage! I can even get it in pink!!!

(source)

Every now and then, I stop and think at how amazing (and a little scary) that a beeper sized device, along with a vial of liquid, is keeping me alive!

(source)

Most days I'm overwhelmed by what I need to do to manage my Diabetes. I really need to be more grateful for how far we've come with research and treatment...and then take advantage of that and work even harder because I have the resources right in front of me.

MORE!!!

2010-06-29T09:09:00.012-05:00

When you only get paid once a month, you make a budget and then you HAVE to stick to it.

As the end of the month comes closer, what's left in the budget gets smaller, smaller and smaller !!!

That's why we're always up for a cheap...or better yet, FREE date night!!!

What's this...free chinese take out?!?!

Think again...they're gormet cupcakes!!!

Thanks to Ilene, we found out that MORE cupcakes was giving out a free gormet cupcake per customer every Monday in June! So glad we made it for at least one freebie!

By the time we got there, the selections were a little slimmer. I was hoping for a cookies and cream cupcake...but red velvet with cream cheese frosting will do just fine, thank you very much!

Derek opted for the flavor of the day..."More", which was similar to a hostess cupcake.

We came home to make a nutritious dinner (mac & cheese with hot dogs cut up in it)...hey, I told you we were coming to the end of our budget for the month! We did have broccoli on the side, so I wasn't lying when I said nutritious!

We caught up on last Friday's Friday Night Lights... a show that we love...football for Derek, teenage drama for me :)

Derek dove right into his cupcake...unfortunately due to a little higher than I'd like blood sugar, I held off. Looks like I didn't give myself enough insulin for my mac. Crazy carbs!

But...I may or may not have had better numbers when I woke up to test closer to midnight...and I may have stumbled into the kitchen to take a bite...or 3 of my cupcake at that late hour...and I may have just taken another bite with my breakfast. Mmmmm...delicious!

Red velvet cupcake with heavenly cream cheese frosting, I'll see you again later!!!

Yes...life is sweet...even with Diabetes (hey, that's what my insulin pump is for)!!!

Back on the Blog-Wagon???

2010-06-28T15:15:00.009-05:00

Because it's really been a while...

And Ilene keeps bugging me about it...

My dad even mentioned it yesterday...I've been really motivated lately by some awesome food bloggers...

And I've stumbled upon some new Diabetes bloggers (too many to list. I'll eventually make a blog roll of ALL of my favorite blogs)...

I have all of these goals to accomplish, like lowering my A1C and losing 30 pounds by the time I turn 30 (which is quickly approaching. Yikes!!!)...

And there are too many funny stories and adventures I experience that need to be shared from my life with Derek...

(on the Skyledge @ Sears Tower)

...so I guess I should start blogging again!!!

2010-05-10T15:50:00.005-05:00

Getting ready to leave for church, I do a quick test:

J: "Oh no!"

D: "What are you?"

J: "....uh, 120."

D: "Are you crazy? Isn't that perfect? Tell me again...what is the goal to hit?"

J: "80-120" I repeat as if a kid getting scolded by a parent.

D: "Ok...then you're perfect!!!"

*I have this awful fear of going low or dropping, especially in public. So, while 120 was awesome, I didn't like leaving the house, knowing I had room to drop.

J: "I just don't like that there is only a little room to drop".

D: "Exactly, you still have room to drop!"

J: Getting some yogurt. "I'm just gonna grab something to eat as we leave."

D: "And are you gonna bolus for that?"

I laughed, knowing he was right, and that he knew my plan to not bolus for it. I leaned in for a kiss.

D: "I'm not kissing you until you bolus."

J: "Oh man. You know me so well! Fine!"

I do a quick-set bolus, which gives me increments of .5 per beep. Beep-Beep-Beep. He waits for one more Beep to confirm. Beep (confirm). It reads back. Beep- Beep-Beep. He waits again to hear me accept. Final Beep. Insulin dose accepted.

He goes to get our Bibles...while I happen to slip into the kitchen to grab 2 small bars of dark chocolate (my safety net so I don't drop lower).

Fast forward to halfway through service. Oh no, my mouth feels like cotton. I must be high!

I descretely lean over, get my purse, and test while Pastor Manny continues preaching.

GARBAGE! 269?!?!?

D: looks over and whispers.... "what?!"

J: whispering back, "I snuck 2 bars of chocolate when we were leaving."

*(AND I also only gave myself 1.5 units of insulin for the 17 grams of carbs worth of yogurt...when I should've given myself 2.2 due to my 1:8 insulin-carb ratio).

D: shaking his head and trying not to laugh "I can't believe you!"

At least I'm kind of like training for my husband to have to discipline our kids, know their tricks up their sleeves, etc. someday.... right?!?!?!

Oh, he's so perfect for me!!!! :)

Someday...

2010-05-10T09:50:00.004-05:00

I woke Derek up Sunday morning and said, "Happy Mother's Day", well, just because it was Mother's Day.

In a very groggy and sleepy voice, he leaned over, put his arms around me and said, "Happy Mother's Day...to the Mother of my future children."

I melted.

It was another reminder to work REALLY hard to get my body in shape, my numbers and A1c down, and to be at my healthiest...so we can work toward getting pregnant in the next 3 years.

I was around babies a lot more than usual this week. I am so excited for our friends who are having kids! Hearing about their pregnancies, deliveries, and first few months with their little ones reminds me again of what a miracle having a baby is...and what a gift from God!

So, Lord-willing, we'll be there too in 3 years or so. So blessed to have the team at University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center working with me...and of course my amazing husband too!!!

U-MAY-ZING...

2010-01-15T19:42:00.005-06:00

What's amazing right now is that we are picking up free internet at our apartment. We've been here for 1 1/2 years, surviving just fine without internet. Every now and then, a signal pops up on our laptop...but of course it's always a password-locked connection.

Sure every once in a while we'll find an unlocked one...but it takes a day to get a page to pop up...and then the signal is gone by the time that happens.

My amazing husband figured out that if we stand on top of the right arm rest of our love seat that is in the front room at the south-west corner of our apartment... and balance the lap top on top of our floor lamp (while trying to balance yourself well enough so you don't fall off the couch)...we get a good, solid, free connection!!!

But honesly, what's MORE amazing is that I'm hooked up to a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) right now!!!

I prayed for this...then got tired of praying...so I stopped.
I got annoyed and emotional and cried a million tears, with my husband standing beside me, telling me it would be ok.
I tested more than 25 times a day, paying up to an extra $300 a month for extra test strips after going past my perscription (even when my mom sacraficially gave me some of her bottles of strips).
I got excited for the possibility of a CGM.
I read blogs of people who were on them...and having healthy pregnancies.
I got tired of having Diabetes...and I just about gave up wanting to do my best to be healthy.
I practically counted on having an amputation, going blind, and losing my kidneys (in my more dramatic and self-pity moments).

And then I got the phone call..."Jen, we're calling to let you know that we just shipped out your CGM. It should be arriving in 5-7 business days."

WHAT?!?!? It's too good to be true. But I didn't even fill out all of the paperwork they asked for. I didn't document months of blood sugar readings. I didn't go in for a 3-day appointment to get hooked up to a mock-CGM.

I was afraid to call mini-med back, in case this was a mistake. I'd often get mistaken for the wrong Jennifer Johnson for 27 years....but Jen Enger?!? Not too many Jen Engers with Diabetes running around Chicago.

I called anyways. My amazing team at the Kovler Diabetes Center out of the University of Chicago took care of everything. Whatever they sent...labs, records, etc... was enough to warrant insurance coverage and approval. I went over details of monthly cost (a mere $90 for the start up transmittor and then $30 a month for new sensors). That's it?! I'm all set??? Thank you Lord!!!

So, I'm all hooked up and excited for this adventure.
The actual initial set up wasn't so smooth, but I'll talk about that more later :)

So, with the help of a good, free internet connection, and having just watched 'Julie & Julia'...I'm back on the blog-bandwagon...for at least one night!

I'm starting to get really good at this balancing act (the Diabetes...and the 'love seat-arm rest-floor lamp-craziness-to get good internet connection).

p.s...Derek may have actually slipped off the couch, kicking the lamp, busting the plaster/base while downloading facebook pictures!!! HaHa!!! Some day we'll look back on our newlywed days and laugh at how frugal yet creative we were!!! Well, I guess we're already laughing at ourselves! Nothing wrong with that :)

September 12, 2009

2009-09-15T16:25:00.007-05:00

Derek and I had talked about this day a while back. We knew it was coming...we were just so busy that...we both kinda...forgot!!!

Maybe it was the AWESOME surprise party that Grace threw for Frank's 30th birthday...

Nothing like a day at the ball park!

WRIGLEY FIELD...of course!!!

Nicely done Grace...he was so surprised!

A private, Mezzanine Suite/sky box to celebrate!

Maybe we were star struck from sitting 2 boxes away from Alyssa Milano...

Maybe we were even more excited about sitting RIGHT NEXT to The Fray...

We went home to clean up and get ready for the U2 concert. Derek showered, I ate a pear... it ALWAYS takes me back. The taste of a pear. I don't eat them often, but when I do, it takes me back in a second...

8 years old. The first meal back home from the hospital. Saturday. Lunch time.
Turkey Sandwich. 3 pieces of turkey. 2 pieces of white bread.

Milk. Measured out exactly. 1 cup. 2%.

Cooked carrots. Measured out exactly. 1/2 cup.

1 PEAR.

It still didn't dawn on me!!!

Off to the concert we went...

What a way to end the night...concert at Soldier Field.

The stage was set.

Snow Patrol opened...wearing a Bears shirt...how perfect!

Out they came...U2!!!

Maybe it was the words they were singing...

STUCK IN A MOMENT

I'm not afraid

Of anything in this world

There's nothing you can throw at me

That I haven't already heard

I'm just trying to find

A decent melody

A song that I can sing

In my own company

You've got to get yourself together

You've got stuck in a moment

And now you can't get out of it

Don't say that later will be better

Now you're stuck in a moment

And you can't get out of it

And you are such a fool

To worry like you do

I know it's tough

And you can never get enough

Of what you don't really need now

My, oh my

You've got to get yourself together

You've got stuck in a moment

And you can't get out of it

Oh love, look at you now

You've got yourself stuck in a moment

And you can't get out of it

And if the night runs over

And if the day won't last

And if your way should falter

Along this stony pass

It's just a moment

This time will pass

Maybe I felt like I was stuck in a moment.

Maybe I felt like I needed to get myself together.

Maybe I'm a fool, for worrying like I do.

Maybe I knew this would eventually pass.

The music was amazing.

The cool breeze was blowing.

...And it FINALLY hit me!!!

It was September 12, 1989...

An anniversary.

20 years of living with Diabetes.

I got a little emotional, as I often do...but thought, "What a perfect day!"

A busy, exciting, packed day of celebrating.

Diabetes did not get in the way of the day.

Sure, I had some high blood sugar readings and got real thirsty at some point.

...but I was happy to end the day, thinking back and celebrating...

20 healthy years!!!

Let the Summer Concerts Begin...

2009-07-02T15:57:00.004-05:00

Last Friday's doctor's appointment left me feeling DEFEATED!!!! It really threw off my ENTIRE weekend. By Sunday night, I was still emotional about it!

Despite the frustration on Friday, it was a great weekend! We saw Augustana and Counting Crows at The Taste with friends. A great kick-off to our summer of concerts!!! Many more to come!!!

Augustana

Counting Crows

The Engers
(So we're not rock-stars...but our parents thing we are really cool!!!)

Ryan & Derek, re-living the college days!

Sarah & Shawn
(They're getting married in a few months!!!!)

Buckingham Fountain
(courtesy of Derek's awesome photo-skills!!!)

Lunch today with Ilene at Yolk (a GREAT breakfast place on Wells)!!!
[Confession: I stole this picture off of her blog from when she went earlier this week... since we didn't take any pictures today!!!]
I had to get a picture in, since the place is just too cute!!!
Ilene is the first girl on the left, next to her boyfriend, Ryan...aren't they cute?!?!
Thanks Ilene...looking forward to our next lunch date!!!

And to finish off the work week, a wonderful latte from my AMAZING co-worker (and friend)...Shelly!!!
Thanks Shelly...there IS light at the end of the tunnel :)

...NOW I'm ready for the long weekend!!!
(I may tackle another set of fasting tests...we'll see how motivated I get!)

Doctors are supposed to HELP their patients...

2009-06-26T13:04:00.002-05:00

Had my 3 month follow up with my endocrinologist this morning.

Nothing new. I have to do a bunch of other fasting tests and tighten some things up.

Maybe it's my sensitive Swedish side...or my emotional Italian side...but I just couldn't stop crying after my appointment!!!

I sat in the parking lot, trying to calm down...and kept crying.

I cried all the way back home.

I sat at our apartment and cried for 30 minutes.

I blasted the fan in my face, blew my nose like crazy, put some eye drops in my eyes, re-did my makeup, pulled myself together, and went in to work.

She was just sooooo rude!!! She walked in the door, looking at the read-out from my pump download and said, "Wow...this is a mess."

She didn't even say hi, shake my hand, ask how I was doing!!!

She interrupted me throughout the entire appointment, cut me off, blew off my concerns, didn't listen to my questions, and was just plain RUDE!!! I walked away discouraged and overwhelmed.

To top it off, her breathe reeked like coffee butt!!! I know that's not a smell or a real thing, but it's the only thing I can think to describe it! A sweaty butt mixed with coffee. YIKES!!!!

I couldn't even call Derek or my mom to let them know how my appointment went...I was just too emotional. I started to text Derek and then got teary-eyed. I eventually emailed my mom and cousin. My mom knew right away that something was up when she didn't hear from me this morning.

Considering switching to one of her other partners in the practice. The only thing is, she has to sign off and ok it. This is not the first time this has happened. Looking back, I come home from just about every appointment, upset!

I know this is MY disease and I need to do everything I can to control it, become healthier, etc. BUT...she is part of my team and is supposed to be there to advocate for me and support me.

Well, the morning was bad, but it's behind me. The weather is great and we have a fun weekend ahead of us (mixed with fasting tests in between...aaaarrrgggggg...but I'll survive).

On a REALLY great note, I took an early lunch break (because I needed it, but because I also had to finish eating by 1pm, so I could fast and test from 6pm-midnight tonight).

I went up to a room where I didn't think anyone would be, so I could calm down, or continue sulking and crying if I felt like it. Some girls were up there, singing and playing guitar. It was BEAUTIFUL!!! They even played my favorite hymn, "Come Thou Fount". The songs were filled with reminders from God that I needed to hear!!!

I sat there, enjoying the music...and tried not to cry again!!!

Sparrows & Lillies...and resting in God's Sovereignty and Perfect Design...

2009-06-16T11:51:00.004-05:00

Matthew 6:25-34
²⁵"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? ²⁶Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life^">?

²⁸"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. ²⁹Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. ³⁰If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? ³¹So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' ³²For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 10:30-31
³⁰And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. ³¹So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

A Good Reminder & Challenge...

2009-06-05T11:32:00.002-05:00

"God allows in His wisdom, that which He could easily prevent by His power."

The quote above is from a video that our staff at work just watched together. It is about a 37 year old wife and mother of 2 little kids who is dying of cancer. Her message and testimony was exactly what I needed to hear.

Check it out for yourself: http://deathisnotdying.com/eventvideo/

I finally got my running for the week done last night, after complications and diabetes-related issues kept me from running on Tuesday morning, Tuesday night, Wednesday morning, Wednesday night, and then AGAIN Thursday morning!!!

I just kept saying, "Well, tomorrow is a new day. I'll try again and keep experimenting with my insulin, numbers, food, etc. til I finally get it right."

The frustration added up little by little but ended with my 25 minute run around our neighborhood before dinner last night. I got a nice little tour of our neighborhood, the weather was perfect, I was listening to great music, my muscles ached when I was done...but it was a good ache of accomplishment!!! And best of all, my numbers seemed to be good and steady.

By the time I had finished making dinner, it was 7:30pm and my blood sugar had shot up to 297...which meant I wouldn't be eating for a while. I told Derek to go ahead without me while I pumped up some more insulin and finished putting things away.

"I'm just so frustrated!" I said to Derek. "Hey, at least you got your running done for the week. That's great!" Derek replied. "I know. I'm trying not to get down about it. I'm sure I'll just cry and then be ok in a little bit." I said as I tried to hold back my tears and think about anything else but my stupid high blood sugar. "Don't cry," Derek said.

I walked in the other room where Derek was eating, and as the tears started to roll down my face, I sat on floor and began to stretch. The tears were still flowing. I got up and stretched out my legs again, turning my back so Derek couldn't see I was still crying, and fought to not have one of those, "Why me? Why Diabetes?" moments.

Rachel Barkey, the woman in the video with cancer talked about having a moment of being frustrated and angry with having cancer. She said that although it happens, she tries not to have those moments. She does not want to throw up her fists at God, yelling and telling him that His plan didn't work out right for her life, that he is not in control or all knowing.

When I heard her say this, I saw that in me (and then I started to cry!). Not that I intentionally throw my fists up at God and yell, but in the times where I think that life without Diabetes would be much easier or when I start to wonder why and what the point is, I kind of am doubting God. God isn't shocked that I have Diabetes. He knew I could handle it when he allowed it.

Sure, He could've prevented it, but..."God allows in His wisdom, that which He could easily prevent by His power."

So again, I find myself being reminded that its not important to know why me or to imagine what life would be like without Diabetes. The fact is, I have it and I'm gonna use it to God's glory, doing the best that I can to control the disease.

Maybe I'd be super unhealthy and lazy with out Diabetes? Maybe it's forced me to be healthy!!!

They are coming so close to a cure and it's such an exciting time with so many resources out there on how to be healthier.

So, in the meantime I will...."run with perseverance the race marked out for [me]. [I will] fix [my] eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of [my] faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12:1-3.

...and THAT warmed my heart!!!

2009-05-26T17:10:00.002-05:00

There is a group of women at work who are training for the half marathon, that is coming up on September 13th.
I was asked to join the group.

Why WOULDN'T I join? These women are AMAZING!!! Some of the godliest and most funny women I know! I'd love to spend the Saturday mornings training with them (even though I can't run the race due to a wedding we have on the day of the race)!

I need the accountability and encouragement, this will help me get in shape for my cousin's upcoming wedding, AND will help get me back on track for overall health as I get my body prepared for pregnancy (again, I remind you....DOWN THE ROAD...4-5 years, or so).

Well, of course in the back of my mind, I worry about my blood sugar being too low or high while running.

I woke up early this morning to run. I was too low, so I took some carbs, waited and was fine...halfway through, I was too high and had to stop! It just set the trend for an "up and down" day :(

I was discouraged, but figured, well, that's enough for today, I'll wake up tomorrow and try again. And now it's a challenge...to figure out the right routine to keep my numbers in control while being able to get a good, hard workout in at the same time.

And with that I went to work, to find an email from one of my amazing co-workers. I shared some of my hesitations AND excitements with her. Her response warmed my heart and even got me choked up a bit:

"Ok, I’m SOOOOO glad you’ll come to our Saturday runs!! I really think it’ll be a great time. Will your blood sugar levels make it difficult to run? Whatever it takes to make sure you’re ok, we’ll do it!! And you’ll be the fittest bridesmaid EVER :)"

One Glorious Year!!

2009-05-19T10:52:00.012-05:00

Words can not express how amazing this last year has been.
It's hard to believe how fast it has flown by.
We are so blessed and have so much to be thankful for.

I love sitting back and thinking through all the details of our relationship, how it began, when we were just "good friends" back in college, our first kiss, when he told me he loved me for the first time, the proposal, etc...I get giddy just thinking about it!!!

We had a great time, stretching out the celebration between 2 weekends because we just had so much to celebrate!!!

Friday, May 9, 2008

An amazing dinner at Maggiano's (one of our favorite restaurants!!!).

After dinner we made our way over to the Marriott Renaissance, where we spent the night.
We were right off of the river and had a view of the Chicago Theater right outside of our room

And yes...Derek took the picture below (isn't he amazing?!?!?)

We went out at 11:00pm (look at how young and fresh we are!!!) and went walking around near the Buckingham Fountain. It must've been prom because there were a million obnoxious high schoolers, dressed up and riding around in limos. We just laughed and were glad to be grown, and celebrating our marriage!!!

Saturday, May 9, 2009

It was a beautiful day as we walked back to our car (parked at work, where I got a ticket for parking overnight...but it was just an MBI ticket and not a "real" one...so no payments needed to be made!!!)

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Breakfast on our back porch on a wonderful sunny, Saturday morning!!!

Baked Banana Bread French Toast
(my go-to breakfast for special events)

Fresh Organic (and SUPER cheap) fruit from Stanley's Fruit Market near work.

And don't forget the coffee in a TIU mug
(where the friendship and sparks all began)!!!

Back at TIU, Jackie graduates with her Masters in Teaching!!!
We are so proud of her!!!

And of course I had to take a trip down memory lane to my old room. 4 years, 1 roomate, 1 room...Suite 1A, Room 111. Some of the best memories and hardest laughs took place in this room with Kathrina!!! I still laugh just as hard with my new roommate, Derek :)

Sunday, May 17, 2009 (Our actual anniversary!!!)
The Bears Fan Convention/Expo
Soldier Field

GM Jerry Angelo, President Ted Phillips, Head coach Lovie Smith

Lovie!!!

Our hero Jay!!!

Jay Culter, Greg Olsen, Matt Forte, Orlando Pace

In the locker room

Urlacher's locker

Cutler's locker. I was hoping to see some juice and glucose tablets in there...but I know this was set up for show!!! (I'm sure he's got some on hand during the games!).

After the long day, we had dinner at Ditka's. The food was AMAZING!!! I had tilapia, pan fryed in vanilla rum sauce with rice and some kind of pineapple-mango salsa. Even the bread and butter was delicious!!!

The day actually began with a surprise bouquet of flowers. Derek told me he had to go to the store to pick up some sharpies for when we see the players at the Expo. I thought that was strange since he has sharpies in every color and thickness!!! When he got home he asked if I could throw in a load of laundry down in the basement. HE normally does the laundry, so again, this was weird, but as a happy wife of 1 year, I went down to the basement to begin the laundry.
When I came upstairs, there was a beautiful bouquet sitting on my pillow!!!

It was the perfect celebration with the perfect man for me!!!

Fasting, CGM's and HOPE!!!

2009-05-01T08:07:00.006-05:00

Ok, so I finally got most of my fasting tests done. The first round felt like a nightmare. I just kept wanting to give up, I felt shaky and awful and even cried at one point!!!

Derek was by my side encouraging me to keep going and I shot back at him in my crabby state of mind...but he loved and encouraged me anyways!!!

My mom bought me Crystal Light and sugar-free jello to help hold me over.

My dad and Derek watched sports while I wallowed in my sorrow on the couch, like a little child, my sister and my brother made me laugh, and my mom kept checking in on me.

I was so excited to finally have it all done, so I proudly sent my numbers off to my doctor.
Her response..."We're gonna need to you repeat all of these, I'm not getting a good sense of what's going on here."

AWESOME!!!!

So last weekend, I did it again! I was geared up and felt ready and pretty optimistic. I spent a good majority of the hard part reading through my Bible and journaling. I honestly think that made the difference! My mind was focused on the Word and I didn't experience the intense hunger pains or shakiness!!! Praise the Lord!!!

Shot another email off to my doctor with the results and waited to hear back...

"Alright...make these adjustments...and REPEAT!!! We'll see how the results turn out this time and from there we'll make changes if needed and repeat until we have it."

REPEAT?!?!?!

Oh man...this never ends!!! I know it's for my own good and in the end, I'll feel better...but can I just lay on the floor and kick my feet and whine like a baby for a few minutes?!?!?

And so the big hope and prayer is for a continuous glucose monitor (CGM)!!!
This device in my opinion is AMAZING and life-saving! This is what I need to gain better control of my Diabetes and to be able to realistically plan for a baby down the road!!

(Disclaimer...that is not my flat stomach...I wish!!!).

A. Insulin Pump
B. Infusion set (needle, attached to tubing where insulin gets delivered).
C. CGM (sensor that reads blood sugar)
D. Transmitter (sends results to the pump).

So, what this does is tests your blood sugar every minute and gives you an average every 5-10 minutes. It creates a graph, showing you whether your blood sugar is heading up or down, whether or not you should be concerned, need to give yourself more insulin, or whether you need to get some sugar in you.

You can set an alarm that will go off if you are over 250 or below 70. (80-120 is the goal). I would still need to test my blood sugar to calibrate the monitor...but I would be able to have tighter control, wouldn't need to test my blood sugar 25+ times a day like I do now (my scabbed fingers are killing me these days!), and it would eliminate worry when I'm in a meeting at work, while I'm running, sleeping in the middle of the night, etc.

Sure, it would be another needle, another attachment...but that's all worth it for better health!!!

Now the annoying part....INSURANCE!!!! The CGM's have been out for a bit and from my explanation, it's OBVIOUS how this could tighten up Diabetes control. Insurance companies KNOW this, it's LOGICAL...but they need to see proof and studies and results down on paper.

I made a few calls and have gotten the ball rolling, but it will take lots of paper work, documentation, me and my doctor fighting for coverage, etc.

It really gets me angry that insurance companies won't be quick to pay for this preventative care, which will make me healthy now AND later... but down the road, they will be more quick to pay for a leg amputation, kidney dialysis, eye laser surgery after blindness, etc (which is all more expensive!!!) because of poor managing of Diabetes!!!

So, pray and hope along with me. The advancements and technology they have are amazing and getting better and better. What a change I've been able to see and experience in the last 20 years!

I'm encouraged and hopeful. There is a cure right around the corner...but for now there is lots of work to be done!!!

Celebrate good times!!!!

2009-04-16T07:51:00.007-05:00

Weekends, holidays, celebrations....I LOVE them!!!
Unfortunately, these are the times I get a little laid back in my Diabetes care :(
Coming from a big Italian family doesn't help either...especially when holidays are filled with Nonna's homemade ravioli (ravs), pasta, pizza, bread, cake, etc....

So, now with Easter, birthday parties, work celebrations, etc. behind us, I need to kick it back into gear this week. Spring is coming, the weather is getting nicer...and it's time I really get to doing those fasting blood tests this weekend (argh!!!!).

Surprise Sherry!!! Happy 40th birthday!!!
It was so great getting together with old friends from the church I grew up at, to celebrate Sherry's life!!! What a great woman, mother, friend, wife...

The entire group that showed up to surprise Sherry.

Derek showing off our Saturday morning breakfast.

Baked Banana Bread French Toast.
(I took 3 different recipes, combined & tweaked them).
Wow...total carb-overload!!!

Easter weekend celebration!!! Sitting around the table, enjoying homemade ravs!!!

I LOVE MY CUGINI!!! (cousins)

Nonna & Brent, dancing in the kitchen. What would we do without her?!!? (Probably starve on holidays!!!)

Everett on an Easter egg hunt.

Life is good when you're the only great-grandchild!

Almost done!

Belated Birthday celebrations. The cross cake doubled as a birthday cake!

So yes...the weekend is over!!!
And now it's time to be healthy again!!! I just don't know if I can keep fighting the temptation of all those cookies in the break room at work!!!! Ahhhhh!!!!!!!!

A Time To Celebrate!!!

2009-04-03T08:02:00.016-05:00

He's like the perfect Date Night!!! Just like when we went to the Chicago History Museum (for me) followed up by a steak dinner at Wildfire (for Derek).

He's the best of both worlds!!! He's what we've all been hoping for!!! He's bringing hope, encouragement, and inspiration to us all!!!

He's Chicago's new pride and joy (for Derek) and a superstar athlete living with Diabetes (for me)!!!

... He's JAY CUTLER!!!!

The phones started ringing off the hook at our place beginning at 4:30pm!!! Texts, calls, messages, excitement, celebration... it was quite the night!!!

My blood sugar was a little higher than I wanted as I finished getting dinner ready. I gave myself some insulin and knew it'd be at least a half hour until I'd be a little bit closer to being able to eat. I told Derek to go ahead without me. So he grabbed my hand to pray, as is our normal tradition (I get the breakfast prayers, Derek takes dinner...lunch is always a toss up).

[Derek:] "Dear Lord, we thank you for bringing us through this day. We pray that you would bring Jen's numbers down so she'll feel better and be able to eat. Thank you for this food that you've provided for us...and Lord, THANK YOU FOR JAY CUTLER!!!"
(To which we both responded with a hearty "AMEN!!!")

Not your typical dinner prayer, but whenever Derek can throw some words up to the Lord concerning the Bears, he takes that opportunity!

As Derek ate and I waited for my numbers to improve, conversation around Jay Cutler continued. In case you didn't know, the Bears Expo will be taking place this year on Sunday, May 17th (SAME DAY AS OUR 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!!).

Derek has been trying to convince me that it would be the perfect way to celebrate our first year of marriage..."Ya know, we can go to Soldier Field, then since we're close to the lake, we can have a romantic dinner downtown afterwards!!!"

And now with Jay Cutler there, Derek said it would be perfect. I could talk to him about my experience with Diabetes, maybe get him to sign my pump?!?!?

We decided it would be best to have Jay put his signature on the backside of the clip. In silver marker, of course so it shows up best. We'd probably have to cover it very carefully with clear plastic, heavy duty tape, so his signature doesn't fade after all the wear and tear from putting it in my pocket and pants.

Ah yes, good conversation to make the time pass! So, my numbers finally came down and I was able to eat my fish, curry rice, green beans, and grapes (much more nutritious than the previous night's meal!!!)

In other brilliant ideas, we thought we'd work on writing Jay Cutler a letter. It's not finalized, but it would go something like this:

"Dear Jay,
Welcome to Chicago! We are so excited to have you join us and have long awaited this day.
As long time season ticket holders, we are true Chicago Bears fans, there every Sunday, whether in the stands, at the away game, or rooting from home (only when we can't make it to the away games!).
We're so glad you will be here to help us bring in some more victories!!!
We want to let you know that we are here to help you as well.
As a person living with Diabetes myself, we know what sacrifice and hard work is like. So, we would like to sacrifice our high up, great view, seats, to be moved to the first row...so we can be right there on the sidelines, with juice and glucose tablets in hand, ready for any low blood sugar reaction you may have during the game.
So, in exchange for our service and dedication, all we ask is that you get us closer seats...so we can be by your side to help, of course!!!
Sincerely, Derek & Jen"

Hey, we can dream...can't we!?!?

YAY FOR JAY!!!

Supplies, Hand Prints, and Blackhawks Bobble-Heads

2009-04-02T07:36:00.014-05:00

While Derek was out last night at the Hawks game with my brother, I decided to pick up around our place (after my nutritious dinner of chips, salsa, and cookies and cream ice cream... I had to get it out of my system before my big fast!!!).

As I went from room to room, something of mine seemed to be taking up space in each room. This got me thinking about all the "stuff" it takes to stay on top of my Diabetes...and how messy our place can become if I don't throw stuff away, put it in it's place, pick up after myself, etc.

As I prepared to change my needle, I gathered all of these items and decided to see what it all looked like, laid out in one area. Of course, once I was done with it all, I thought of the other million items that I had forgotten to photograph...but you get the picture!!!

Everything (that I remembered at the time)

Insulin boxes and bottle

Thryoid and Cholesterol rx's
(yes, I'm on cholesterol pills...
and it makes me
feel like an old, fat lady!!!)

Emergency "Stuff" (juice, glucose tablets, & fruit snacks, by the bed in case of a night time 'low' and ketone strips to test for ketones when I'm real high).

Faith & Family (a HUGE and needed support)!!!

Pump Supplies (needles, tubing, caps for exercising and showering)

Blood testing meter, test strips, lancets (little pokers), control solution

More boxes of supplies

Medic Alert Bracelet & Literature: Carb counting book, Diabetes Forecast Magazine

Record keeping

Praise the Lord for Health Care Coverage!!!!

And finally, my own 'Word in Your Hand' project (http://www.diabeteshandprint.com/):

Another productive night of cleaning, taking pictures, and drawing on myself. I guess I get a little bored without my husband...who very thoughtfully woke me up at 11pm by shaking the bobble-head that he won me at the Hawks game, in my face!!!

Pumping. Testing. Fasting

2009-04-01T07:25:00.005-05:00

The insulin pump is an AMAZING invention!!! It's what keeps me alive, providing me insulin throughout the day. It's almost like a little pancreas with a brain, the size of a beeper. The insulin is delivered through the tubing that is connected to a needle that is inserted to my stomach (which gets changed, refilled, and rotated every 3 days).

When I wake up in the morning, I test my blood, plug the number into my pump and then plug in the amount of carbs I'm going to eat. My pump, very concisely, tells me how much insulin to give myself...just like that! It takes a lot of the guessing and math out of it for me.

With some adjustments that the doctor made, I get scared with how much insulin my pump tells me to give at times. So, on most mornings I cheat a little and cut back a tiny bit on the insulin. This morning, I braved it and took the pumps directions and gave the full amount. I was 175 when waking up. Not awful, but not perfect (80-120 is the goal). I gave myself 1.0 unit to cover being a little high and then another 2.2 units for the 33 carbs of oatmeal I ate.

I went throughout my normal morning, got ready, woke Derek up, and then sat down to test again, making sure I was ok to drive to work. 375?!?!?! WHAT?!?!? When I finally thinkI'm doing soemthing right!!! And then I felt it...sluggish, nauseous, and like I had a row of cotton, lined up on my tongue (I was really thirsty)!!! I tried to hold it in, but the tears came down my face. Sometimes it's frustrating, but I try to just move on and figure out what went wrong, knowing tomorrow will be a new start.

A hug and kiss and some encouragement from my wonderful husband and it's off to work!

Well, it's gonna make for a messy day when I start out like that. Some high's, some lows, and feeling lousy in between. My insulin pump settings [insulin to carb ratio, amount to bring high numbers lower, basal rates (the amount going through me during the entire day)] are all off!!!

Because of this, there is a process of doing fasting tests along with writing down EVERY blood sugar reading and EVERY single thing I put in my mouth...in order for my doctor to help straighten things out. It's a lot of logging and recording, but in the end, it's very useful to figure out how to correct the mess.

So...this Thursday, Friday, Saturday....it begins!!!

It will begin with eating low fat food throughout the day, being real careful to be as precise as I can as to counting carbs. I begin fasting around 6 or 7pm and will then take a series of blood tests at 10pm, midnight, 2am, 4am, 6am, 8am, and 10am. It makes for a restless night...and of course I get hungry and weak.

That is one series. I have to repeat this again on another day, along with about 3-4 more series of fasting tests at different points throughout the day.

Sure it's annoying, inconvenient, messes with our weekend plans, etc...but it is a step toward better control!!!

Hope. Inspiration. Encouragement.

2009-03-31T07:28:00.003-05:00

When I first ran across Kerri's blog (www.sixuntilme.com) I was so inspired and amazed that there was someone out there who knew EXACTLY what I go through: the feelings I have, the thoughts in my head, the struggles, the excitement, all the little details, etc...about living with Diabetes.

Reading her journey inspired and encouraged me to want to be healthier and to do a better job at controlling my own Diabetes...and so I started my own blog.

Over the past week I have come across a whole network of Diabetic bloggers at tudiabetes.com ("A Community of People Touched By Diabetes").

Hope. Inspiration. Encouragement.

That's what I continue to feel when I read other peoples' stories!

It's exciting to see all the projects that are taking place to raise awareness and all the efforts that are being made to find a cure. They've come so far, even in the short 20 years since I've been diagnosed.

It's almost unfathomable to think what it would be like to live without Diabetes. It really isn't that far off!

Until then, I'll continue to come together with this 'Community of People Touched By Diabetes'
...and hopefully I can inspire and encourage a few people along the way too!

Find more videos like this on Tu Diabetes - A Community for People Touched by Diabetes

http://www.diabeteshandprint.com/

Find more videos like this on Tu Diabetes - A Community for People Touched by Diabetes