Blog- Where the heck have I been?

[MikeF9]

Friday March 25, 2011

Hello!
Remember me?
I used to have a Picture of the Day just about everyday.
But winter has hung on and I haven't taken any pictures of anything of real interest, so this space has been kinda quiet.

Unfortunately, there has been another reason.
This kidney disease has been taking it's toll on me.
Right now, my kidneys are filtering the toxins in my body at about 10% and probably less.
Imagine your car's oil filter or gas filter only filtering 10% of whatever gunk is in your oil or gas. What would your car be like? Kinda logey.
That's me.
Some days I have no ambition what so ever, and it takes a lot of effort just to do the normal routine.
I have trouble crawling out of bed in the morning, and for the most part, the couch is very inviting.
But I trudge on because I think if I stay active, I can stave off being on dialysis. That's the last thing I want to do.
As I was talking to one of the nurses down at the doctor's office, who, by the way, had a kidney transplant herself, she summed it up best. You have good days and bad days, but never GREAT days.
I think the weather may have something to do with it. Last Sunday morning, it was really nice out and sunny. I headed out and went down Hunt Street in back of the school as far as I could go. Felt tired afterwards, but it felt good to do that.
To stay on the transplant list and because I just turned 50, I had to have a colonoscopy. The less said about THAT ordeal, the better, although I guess it turned out OK.
And I had another cortozone shot in my left knee, so I am dealing with my usual knee problems as well.

So in the end, I'm still here, just plugging along best I can.
And when something interesting pops up, like dandelions, I'll post some pictures.

[al brodeur]

Mike,
sure hope everything turns out for the better for you,and that a transplant is available real soon and also thanks for whatisits

[Henry]

I have gotten a lot of positive comments on your whatisits Mike - People have had a lot of fun with it, plus have learned something while doing it.

[mkr]

Mike, I always enjoy all your posts and pictures!  Thoughts and Prayers to you for a phone to ring to say it's time for the transplant! ~ Mary Kay

[lena6]

Mike, just down the road if you need Jim or I.  Right now we are in sunny So. Carolina but will be home soon.  Our prayers and love are with you.

[Rev. Elizabeth]

Mike; never a need to apologize or explain your absences, though indeed, we do wish to know what's going on so we can ( and will) provide support when needed.  Your 'what is it' posts have been a lot of fun to view, and thank you for that.  Take good care of yourself, Mike, we are all rooting for you!

[suze]

I just "officially" met you at the book sale - sorry for your challenges, and I agree with Elizabeth - no need to apologize!! Hopefully the improving weather will help you feel better.

As I told you, I really appreciated and enjoyed the "what is it series,"   and your pics when you post them!

[Mike Raburn]

Post when you FEEL like it.