I purchased a Kindle for use during our Eastern European Adventure. I will admit that I've spent way too much time on Amazon lately and I have been reading the books that I was planning to read while in CZ. Well, today, I decided to try out the text to speech function. It's not that bad. Sure, it's still a little robotic and some of the pronounciation isn't great but it work pretty well. I listened to a whole book today while I worked and drove and relaxed...
I've started to think about other things I can do to relax while we're away. I'm going to see if my heating pad will work over there for my feet! I also will have my guided visualisation sessions on my iphone. And then there's visiting lovely places and having a 'vacation'. I wonder what else I should do to relax...
31 July 2009
I expected to have this conversation at some point...
Today has been ok. I picked up two of the instructors from NY and then went into the office. DH was at his parent's working on his bike since I need to have the car for the next 3 weeks. When I went to pick up DH we had to talk to his mom about our trip in August. She hasn't said anything to anybody and DH requested again that she keep it to herself. It was very obvious that she thinks that the fault lies in me due to my kidney ailment but I tried to make it clear that we're doing this because of male factor infertility. She then said why couldn't we just keep trying naturally and that it would eventually happen even if it takes 5 years. DH told her that his doctor wouldn't recommend that we do this if he thought that we'd be able to do this naturally - and that we should do it sooner than later due to my health. So she countered by saying that we shouldn't put my health at risk and just go straight to adoption. DH then responded that adoption would cost more from here than IVF. So she just let it be and laid into both of us about stress, waiting so long, etc.
I was a little upset after this exchange but I thought similar things 18 months ago so I let it go. DH is just going to have to deal with his mom in the future because as we get closer to going I may not be so understanding - particularly if discussions become a blame game.
I was a little upset after this exchange but I thought similar things 18 months ago so I let it go. DH is just going to have to deal with his mom in the future because as we get closer to going I may not be so understanding - particularly if discussions become a blame game.
27 July 2009
Organization...
Sometimes I am very organized. It makes me feel at least a little bit in control of my life. There are other times when I don't like organization - I just want to see what life brings. Well, I am in an organization mode. I have so much work to do in the next three weeks and the only way I see getting through it is through checklists, flowcharts, meetings and lots of emails. and once I step on that BA flight on Aug 19, I want none of this insanity. But can I get through the 3 weeks without going nuts...
I wonder why I am only an organization freak sometimes and a go with the flow chick other times. It's moment like this when I am between modes that I sometimes wish I was one or the other. Like today, I said to DH that we need to take out our suitcases and do some leisurely packing over the next 3 weeks. Afterward I began to wonder why I need that long to pack a suitcase for 3 weeks away since I usually pack an hour before I go to the airport. This time, I need control so hence 3 weeks to pack - anyhow, the suitcases at this point are still in the closet...
I wonder why I am only an organization freak sometimes and a go with the flow chick other times. It's moment like this when I am between modes that I sometimes wish I was one or the other. Like today, I said to DH that we need to take out our suitcases and do some leisurely packing over the next 3 weeks. Afterward I began to wonder why I need that long to pack a suitcase for 3 weeks away since I usually pack an hour before I go to the airport. This time, I need control so hence 3 weeks to pack - anyhow, the suitcases at this point are still in the closet...
25 July 2009
Way Too Much Information
I'm about to make a TMI post about my period. You see, I have never liked my period. I thought I would at first. I remember being 10 or 11 and reading 'Are You there God? It's Me, Margaret' and hoping like mad for my period. One summer when I was staying with my grandmother in NY, I remember spending my ice cream money on pads for teens (I thing they were in a purple package or something like that). When my great-grandmother asked me whether my period had started, I said no - I just wanted to be prepared when it did.
I think it started a year later when I was doing a dance recital. I wasn't prepared and it was literally the night from hell to get through that show. I don't remember telling my mom when I got home and I also don't remember her reaction. I do remember the cramps - and the cramps for months and months thereafter. The first two days were always the worse. I became intimate with tylenol and advil, hot water bottles, electric blankets or whatever would make it feel better. My doctor put me on iron supplements - many different types since my tummy hated them. At 17 I was finally put on BCPs because the cramps were so bad. 4 years I lived a wonderful life with 3-4 days of what passed for a period. When I hit 21 though and received the official dx for PKD, I had to stop taking them. I was sad but rationalized it well. I got into a routine to get through the first two days and basically ignored the rest of it. My period was just a 5-7 day inconvenience and as long as I was drugged up for day 1 & 2, I could survive.
I never examined my period again until we began TTC two years ago. I started with charting so I would actually enter everything into fertility friend in those first few months. I realised I was extremely regular - started usually at 10am on a Friday (unless I was stressed), Saturday and Sunday were usually hell (thank god I was at home most of the time) and the days 4-7 just petered off. Sometimes I took iron, sometimes I drank lots of water and sometimes I went running to get through the cramps. I hated the clots, hated tampons that didn't do anything during the first two days and hated my 'black' wardrobe that I had to wear fro days 1-4. I stopped charting when we hit the 6 month mark and referred to the NJ-based RE. I had had enough of getting to know myself. That wasn't the end of it though.
Last year, I discovered the diva cup when I was trying to stop using tampons. It is n't useful for me on day 1 & 2 but it is a wonderful tool for the rest of my cycle. Last year I also discovered that I hated the regularity of my cycle. Every month on 10DPO I'd start to get antsy. I was usually focused on whether my upcoming Friday morning would bring AF in all her glory - and it generally did. A few stressful months may have had late starts but start it did.
When I went to the acupuncturist in June of this year I had to share the details of my cycle and particular my period in technicolor glory. I had to describe everything from duration, to volume, to colour, to the size of the clots, to whether I felt hot or cold and where. With treatment my June cycle was almost pleasant. Hardly any cramps, shorter in duration and hardly any clots. This cycle is the closest to heaven I could have imagined. No cramps or clots at all. I just feel like me. I'm not moody, drained or a witch. I was still up a few times last night dealing with pads, etc but it wasn't the hassle of previous months and years. I even called my mom to tell her about it. I can't wait to tell my acupuncturist either. I feel normal for the first time ever during my period.
So that is my TMI post - looking at what I've written it seems a bit weird to write about it... I has gotten my mind off of BCP side effects and stims though - for a while at least.
I think it started a year later when I was doing a dance recital. I wasn't prepared and it was literally the night from hell to get through that show. I don't remember telling my mom when I got home and I also don't remember her reaction. I do remember the cramps - and the cramps for months and months thereafter. The first two days were always the worse. I became intimate with tylenol and advil, hot water bottles, electric blankets or whatever would make it feel better. My doctor put me on iron supplements - many different types since my tummy hated them. At 17 I was finally put on BCPs because the cramps were so bad. 4 years I lived a wonderful life with 3-4 days of what passed for a period. When I hit 21 though and received the official dx for PKD, I had to stop taking them. I was sad but rationalized it well. I got into a routine to get through the first two days and basically ignored the rest of it. My period was just a 5-7 day inconvenience and as long as I was drugged up for day 1 & 2, I could survive.
I never examined my period again until we began TTC two years ago. I started with charting so I would actually enter everything into fertility friend in those first few months. I realised I was extremely regular - started usually at 10am on a Friday (unless I was stressed), Saturday and Sunday were usually hell (thank god I was at home most of the time) and the days 4-7 just petered off. Sometimes I took iron, sometimes I drank lots of water and sometimes I went running to get through the cramps. I hated the clots, hated tampons that didn't do anything during the first two days and hated my 'black' wardrobe that I had to wear fro days 1-4. I stopped charting when we hit the 6 month mark and referred to the NJ-based RE. I had had enough of getting to know myself. That wasn't the end of it though.
Last year, I discovered the diva cup when I was trying to stop using tampons. It is n't useful for me on day 1 & 2 but it is a wonderful tool for the rest of my cycle. Last year I also discovered that I hated the regularity of my cycle. Every month on 10DPO I'd start to get antsy. I was usually focused on whether my upcoming Friday morning would bring AF in all her glory - and it generally did. A few stressful months may have had late starts but start it did.
When I went to the acupuncturist in June of this year I had to share the details of my cycle and particular my period in technicolor glory. I had to describe everything from duration, to volume, to colour, to the size of the clots, to whether I felt hot or cold and where. With treatment my June cycle was almost pleasant. Hardly any cramps, shorter in duration and hardly any clots. This cycle is the closest to heaven I could have imagined. No cramps or clots at all. I just feel like me. I'm not moody, drained or a witch. I was still up a few times last night dealing with pads, etc but it wasn't the hassle of previous months and years. I even called my mom to tell her about it. I can't wait to tell my acupuncturist either. I feel normal for the first time ever during my period.
So that is my TMI post - looking at what I've written it seems a bit weird to write about it... I has gotten my mind off of BCP side effects and stims though - for a while at least.
24 July 2009
And it begins.....
It's FRIDAY!!!!!
Well, I start BCPs today so that means I am at the beginning of the IVF cycle - WOW Strangely enough, I'm feeling pretty ok about the whole thing at the moment.
My mom is finalizing her paperwork for dialysis in CZ. The transportation to and from our hotel for her treatments was looking like it was going to be about $500 for the two weeks that she'll be there. I offered to pay for it since she's doing this to be supportive of me and ended up giving her $1000 that she could put towards whatever she wanted. Well, the coordinator sorted out a great deal for her because of the frequency of journeys (12 journeys - 6 each way) - $250!!! My mother is quite happy about that and I am glad that she can do a little more with the funds that I gave her.
I'm hoping for a quiet evening tonight. Except for the final installment of the Torchwood mini-series, I am hoping to identify some simple projects for the jewelry making night on Saturday in the books that I have. If people can easily follow instructions, I can relax a bit versus teach people what to do.
Well, I start BCPs today so that means I am at the beginning of the IVF cycle - WOW Strangely enough, I'm feeling pretty ok about the whole thing at the moment.
My mom is finalizing her paperwork for dialysis in CZ. The transportation to and from our hotel for her treatments was looking like it was going to be about $500 for the two weeks that she'll be there. I offered to pay for it since she's doing this to be supportive of me and ended up giving her $1000 that she could put towards whatever she wanted. Well, the coordinator sorted out a great deal for her because of the frequency of journeys (12 journeys - 6 each way) - $250!!! My mother is quite happy about that and I am glad that she can do a little more with the funds that I gave her.
I'm hoping for a quiet evening tonight. Except for the final installment of the Torchwood mini-series, I am hoping to identify some simple projects for the jewelry making night on Saturday in the books that I have. If people can easily follow instructions, I can relax a bit versus teach people what to do.
23 July 2009
Well....
I'm waiting for my period. It'll probably be here at 10am tomorrow on the dot (I hate that I am that regular) but I am dwelling on it already. When it starts I have to start BCPs. If it doesn't, a miracle has happened and praying a novena has been a wise investment. I'm thinking that scenario one is what will most likely happen.
I've been pretty fine up until now - I thank being organized for that. The problem is that now I am busy at work and a bit stressed by work and the upcoming cycle. I am more nervous about the cycle each day. Not so much the needles anymore. More so my mental state. Being on vacation will definitely help but will I turn into a monster with the pressure of taking this step will bring. DH is so stressed with work right now that he can't even find the time to think about success or failure of this endeavour and the emotional consequences. He said we'll deal with that on vacation.
Anyhow, we had our STD blood tests and now need to do urine tests. Once that's done, there's noting more to do until Aug 17th when I take the last BCP and then Aug 21 when we have our first appointment and I start stims.
In the meantime, I'm having a jewelry making party on Saturday night and then I'm busy with a project until the day we fly out. I went to the spa last Saturday for a detox wrap so hopefully that'll do until we leave as well. What I need to do is to start packing... that'll keep my mind from wandering when I do get time at home over the next 4 weeks. Plus, we have a 2-day national holiday next Thursday and Friday. Hopefully I'll get to enjoy it... I am supposed to be setting up for this project during that time.
Oh yeah, I am loving the Torchwood series!!!!
I've been pretty fine up until now - I thank being organized for that. The problem is that now I am busy at work and a bit stressed by work and the upcoming cycle. I am more nervous about the cycle each day. Not so much the needles anymore. More so my mental state. Being on vacation will definitely help but will I turn into a monster with the pressure of taking this step will bring. DH is so stressed with work right now that he can't even find the time to think about success or failure of this endeavour and the emotional consequences. He said we'll deal with that on vacation.
Anyhow, we had our STD blood tests and now need to do urine tests. Once that's done, there's noting more to do until Aug 17th when I take the last BCP and then Aug 21 when we have our first appointment and I start stims.
In the meantime, I'm having a jewelry making party on Saturday night and then I'm busy with a project until the day we fly out. I went to the spa last Saturday for a detox wrap so hopefully that'll do until we leave as well. What I need to do is to start packing... that'll keep my mind from wandering when I do get time at home over the next 4 weeks. Plus, we have a 2-day national holiday next Thursday and Friday. Hopefully I'll get to enjoy it... I am supposed to be setting up for this project during that time.
Oh yeah, I am loving the Torchwood series!!!!
20 July 2009
July ICLW - Great to Meet You...
Welcome from Bermuda. It's hot and humid here now so I'd prefer to be in AC or in another country at the moment. Still, it's awful pretty here during the summer...
Here's a little bit about my world:
Me - 35, independent consultant and dancer, 4+ years into a doctoral program in management (haven't done any work since March 15th), dx with polycyctic kidney disease (not affecting fertility) and fibroids (apparently not affecting fertility). I love MGM Musicals, theatre, Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Doctor Who, Torchwood, Star Wars & Star Trek and dancing.
DH - 36, engineer, clairinet player and bagpiper, dx high prolactin levels and low motility. He loves marching and pipe bands, theatre, suspense novels, strategy games and good BBC programming.
Our Life - met in 1999 or 2000 (depends on who you speak to), dating in 2001, engaged in 2005, married in 2006 and began TTCing in 2007. We're on cycle #19.
Other stuff - we have 2 cats and 2 dogs (CKCSs). We love to travel (it happens when you're stuck on a 21 square mile Island). We love Broadway and West End Shows. We both love being onstage performing or backsage making the show happen. We're planners and that probably makes this whole IF thing suck royally.
What we're doing to get by - We started increasing our commnication with each other after I had an emotional explosion in December 2007 over an unsuccessful cycle. Since December 08 we've stopped putting our energy into TTCing and started putting it into getting healthier and spending quality time together. This year we've walked the equivalent of a marathon and ran a half-marathon. We've adopted healthy eating habits and we're dabbling in acupuncture in preparation for an IVF cycle that's scheduled to start on Aug 21 ( I'll start BC by the end of this week unless a miracle happens). We'll be doing IVF in Zlin in the Czech Republic and therefore will not miss out on our annual vacation.
Other than that - we're trying to enjoy the summer!
Looking forward to visiting everyone this month!
Here's a little bit about my world:
Me - 35, independent consultant and dancer, 4+ years into a doctoral program in management (haven't done any work since March 15th), dx with polycyctic kidney disease (not affecting fertility) and fibroids (apparently not affecting fertility). I love MGM Musicals, theatre, Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Doctor Who, Torchwood, Star Wars & Star Trek and dancing.
DH - 36, engineer, clairinet player and bagpiper, dx high prolactin levels and low motility. He loves marching and pipe bands, theatre, suspense novels, strategy games and good BBC programming.
Our Life - met in 1999 or 2000 (depends on who you speak to), dating in 2001, engaged in 2005, married in 2006 and began TTCing in 2007. We're on cycle #19.
Other stuff - we have 2 cats and 2 dogs (CKCSs). We love to travel (it happens when you're stuck on a 21 square mile Island). We love Broadway and West End Shows. We both love being onstage performing or backsage making the show happen. We're planners and that probably makes this whole IF thing suck royally.
What we're doing to get by - We started increasing our commnication with each other after I had an emotional explosion in December 2007 over an unsuccessful cycle. Since December 08 we've stopped putting our energy into TTCing and started putting it into getting healthier and spending quality time together. This year we've walked the equivalent of a marathon and ran a half-marathon. We've adopted healthy eating habits and we're dabbling in acupuncture in preparation for an IVF cycle that's scheduled to start on Aug 21 ( I'll start BC by the end of this week unless a miracle happens). We'll be doing IVF in Zlin in the Czech Republic and therefore will not miss out on our annual vacation.
Other than that - we're trying to enjoy the summer!
Looking forward to visiting everyone this month!
16 July 2009
More planning going on here....
I wrote something last night but I lost it when I was going to post it so I just gave up and went to bed. Now I have to remember what I wrote...
Yesterday was acupuncture day. He did a post-ovulation sequence on me followed by moxa. He has also prepared the accupressure sequence that he'd like me to follow while we're away. I so wish I could go to him while we're going through the entire process.... still, I'm grateful that he's done this for us. He's now putting together a guide for me that explains where to apply pressure, etc. I've also ordered an acupen that should help in locating the positions.
We talked about whether I was feeling stressed and I admitted that I freaked out a bit last Friday when considering our contingency plan. I mean we have one and we made those decisions a while ago. Still, I was second guessing our decisions, particular since we had agreed not to do anything additional until we have a result from the upcoming cycle. He told me that we're right to take one thing at a time and don't start second guessing ourselves at this stage. To calm my mind he did ask what the ideal would be if we had to do additional cycles and I said I'd love it if we could do further cycles in India or Thailand or South Africa because then I could visit those places at the same time. I will admit that I did feel better thinking of it that way.
Other than that, we've finally booked the London/Vienna leg of the trip. I'm looking at hotels/guest houses for our overnight excursions. I've found great places in Prague and Durnstein. I've found a lovely place in Buda but I don't know if we want to drive 4 hours to Budapest. Vienna has been a pain. I really can't find anything that blows me away but I find that I am drawn to the Marriott at the [URL="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-photos.mi?marshaCode=viese&pageID=HWHOM"]Imperial Riding School[/URL]. I should see what the tour times are at the Spanish Riding School..... I don't think they'll be performing in August.
I need to make a final decision about shows in London. I've ordered the tickets for 'Wicked' on Sept 11. I now need to get tickets for 'Jersey Boys' for Sept 12. We're contemplating matinee tickets to see 'Dirty Dancing' on the 12th but we also plan to catch a train to see friends in Colchester in the morning. We should make it back by 2.30 to make the 3pm show but it might be a bit rushed. Perhaps we should just forgo 'Dirty Dancing' and get back to London mid-afternoon, do some shopping, have dinner in Chinatown and go to the theatre. I am honestly leaning that way at the moment (plus, I need my Next and LUSH fix).
Yesterday was acupuncture day. He did a post-ovulation sequence on me followed by moxa. He has also prepared the accupressure sequence that he'd like me to follow while we're away. I so wish I could go to him while we're going through the entire process.... still, I'm grateful that he's done this for us. He's now putting together a guide for me that explains where to apply pressure, etc. I've also ordered an acupen that should help in locating the positions.
We talked about whether I was feeling stressed and I admitted that I freaked out a bit last Friday when considering our contingency plan. I mean we have one and we made those decisions a while ago. Still, I was second guessing our decisions, particular since we had agreed not to do anything additional until we have a result from the upcoming cycle. He told me that we're right to take one thing at a time and don't start second guessing ourselves at this stage. To calm my mind he did ask what the ideal would be if we had to do additional cycles and I said I'd love it if we could do further cycles in India or Thailand or South Africa because then I could visit those places at the same time. I will admit that I did feel better thinking of it that way.
Other than that, we've finally booked the London/Vienna leg of the trip. I'm looking at hotels/guest houses for our overnight excursions. I've found great places in Prague and Durnstein. I've found a lovely place in Buda but I don't know if we want to drive 4 hours to Budapest. Vienna has been a pain. I really can't find anything that blows me away but I find that I am drawn to the Marriott at the [URL="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-photos.mi?marshaCode=viese&pageID=HWHOM"]Imperial Riding School[/URL]. I should see what the tour times are at the Spanish Riding School..... I don't think they'll be performing in August.
I need to make a final decision about shows in London. I've ordered the tickets for 'Wicked' on Sept 11. I now need to get tickets for 'Jersey Boys' for Sept 12. We're contemplating matinee tickets to see 'Dirty Dancing' on the 12th but we also plan to catch a train to see friends in Colchester in the morning. We should make it back by 2.30 to make the 3pm show but it might be a bit rushed. Perhaps we should just forgo 'Dirty Dancing' and get back to London mid-afternoon, do some shopping, have dinner in Chinatown and go to the theatre. I am honestly leaning that way at the moment (plus, I need my Next and LUSH fix).
13 July 2009
A Pretty Decent Monday!
It was a hectic day! Work was nuts and it'll be the same way for a few days. I have no idea how I am going to deal with the insanity in August if I am getting more stressed about travelling...
Anyhow, I had a lovely early evening. My niece turned 1 today and her parents had an impromptu b-day party. I first went to my hairdresser's farewell party while DH was at a meeting. I gave her pink champagne and promised to stop by her champagne house party on Saturday. I then ran to meet DH and we headed to his sister's house. We watched our niece figure out how to open her presents. I will admit that it was a good laugh. There was paper everywhere. I also had some time one o one with her and she's just so charming. I think that a year ago I didn't want to be around her, I didn't want to hold her or to play with her. Now she always has a smile for me and often ends up in my arms. I guess this means that I've come a long way. Yes, there is still a longing when I hold her but it's not her fault. I am glad I got over some of my issues to enjoy a few special moments of her first year.
I'm so looking forward to the end of the week. We're going to see Harry Potter on Friday and then I have a spa day (with a detox wrap) scheduled for Saturday. I need to get through the week first though...
Anyhow, I had a lovely early evening. My niece turned 1 today and her parents had an impromptu b-day party. I first went to my hairdresser's farewell party while DH was at a meeting. I gave her pink champagne and promised to stop by her champagne house party on Saturday. I then ran to meet DH and we headed to his sister's house. We watched our niece figure out how to open her presents. I will admit that it was a good laugh. There was paper everywhere. I also had some time one o one with her and she's just so charming. I think that a year ago I didn't want to be around her, I didn't want to hold her or to play with her. Now she always has a smile for me and often ends up in my arms. I guess this means that I've come a long way. Yes, there is still a longing when I hold her but it's not her fault. I am glad I got over some of my issues to enjoy a few special moments of her first year.
I'm so looking forward to the end of the week. We're going to see Harry Potter on Friday and then I have a spa day (with a detox wrap) scheduled for Saturday. I need to get through the week first though...
11 July 2009
Relaxing day turns into a PITA!
After an early night (thanks to a headache), I got up this morning and decided to spend the morning in bed lounging and reading. It was much needed and appreciated and I did not get up until I finished my book. My noon I was up, showered and ready to head into town to sort out my iPhone.
Yeah, my iPhone would not charge and it was driving me nuts! I tried plugging it into the computer and then into the wall and finally got on the iPhone website to try to understand what the problem was. I had a feeling that the battery was shot but I took it into the store to see if they could do anything. They basically said that I had killed it by overcharging it since I plugged it in at night when I was asleep. They couldn't do anything about it so I would have to ship it to Apple to be repaired. So off I went home (after lunch and some Saturday shopping) and I began to search the iPhone website. After 30 minutes I gave up and called support. They think the phone is defective so they're sending me a box and I need to send the phone back to them in it. If it is just a defective battery, they'll replace it. Otherwise, they'll replace the entire unit. I'm using our other iPhone at the moment but I need to take that one in to be configured as well. So at the moment I am without mobile access.....
Other than that, we have a new mailbox to put up and we FINALLY got a calendar for my home office. I plan to spend a bit of time updating the books on my kindle tonight. I'll get back my relaxed feeling soon...
Yeah, my iPhone would not charge and it was driving me nuts! I tried plugging it into the computer and then into the wall and finally got on the iPhone website to try to understand what the problem was. I had a feeling that the battery was shot but I took it into the store to see if they could do anything. They basically said that I had killed it by overcharging it since I plugged it in at night when I was asleep. They couldn't do anything about it so I would have to ship it to Apple to be repaired. So off I went home (after lunch and some Saturday shopping) and I began to search the iPhone website. After 30 minutes I gave up and called support. They think the phone is defective so they're sending me a box and I need to send the phone back to them in it. If it is just a defective battery, they'll replace it. Otherwise, they'll replace the entire unit. I'm using our other iPhone at the moment but I need to take that one in to be configured as well. So at the moment I am without mobile access.....
Other than that, we have a new mailbox to put up and we FINALLY got a calendar for my home office. I plan to spend a bit of time updating the books on my kindle tonight. I'll get back my relaxed feeling soon...
10 July 2009
Thinking... always thinking...
DH will be with me for the entire trip - THANK GOD!!!! I am so mad at myself for letting it get to me. Thanks so much for the hugs and advice. I am thankful to have such a support system.
We had the contingency talk last night and this morning. It isn't looking very positive for both of us (or even just me...) to get away for 3 weeks in November or March to go through additional cycles in CZ. We're thinking about doing the cycles in NJ, if necessary, and doing our Sept vacation in CZ next year if we're still not successful. And then that'll be it. Granted, I say that now but we both want to put some boundaries - particularly financial boundaries up. Additionally, I am quite aware that my health will start becoming an issue in the future and I want to maintain kidney function for as long as possible.
Other than that, we're getting through this final cycle. I should start BCP on July 24th or 25th now that ovulation has been detected. I've been practicing the femoral massage and it's pretty simple. I haven't tried the acupressure on the ear points yet. The guided visualization CD is so good that I consistently fall asleep in the middle of it.... not sure how effective it makes the visualization but I am definitely relaxed!!!!
We had the contingency talk last night and this morning. It isn't looking very positive for both of us (or even just me...) to get away for 3 weeks in November or March to go through additional cycles in CZ. We're thinking about doing the cycles in NJ, if necessary, and doing our Sept vacation in CZ next year if we're still not successful. And then that'll be it. Granted, I say that now but we both want to put some boundaries - particularly financial boundaries up. Additionally, I am quite aware that my health will start becoming an issue in the future and I want to maintain kidney function for as long as possible.
Other than that, we're getting through this final cycle. I should start BCP on July 24th or 25th now that ovulation has been detected. I've been practicing the femoral massage and it's pretty simple. I haven't tried the acupressure on the ear points yet. The guided visualization CD is so good that I consistently fall asleep in the middle of it.... not sure how effective it makes the visualization but I am definitely relaxed!!!!
08 July 2009
Somebody Up There IS Looking Out For Us...
It looks like DH nmay have gotten a reprieve from going to Toronto. His company consists of three partners and they've proposed that only one go to Toronto. So far they're making progress so we may be fine... I hope he'll have written confirmation that he doesn't have to go by week's end. Thank God if this works out!
Acupuncture was excellent today. We spent the first 15 minutes going through the acupuncture points that he'll be using in the lead up to us flying out and then he's going to show me at the next few sessions the acupressure points he wants me or DH to work on before retrieval an transfer and then another set of points for after transfer. Then I'll go to see him immediately when I get back. I also have to start doing femoral massage and he gave me additional information with diagrams for that. I also have documents with diagrams for the ear acupressure points. I just need to figure out what tool I feel comfortable enough to use for the acupressure. I am going to try to see if I can get a dental instrument with the ball on the end... we'll see...
We then got into the needles during the day. Since I am about to ovulate the needles were basically focusing on the ovaries and such. It felt different... but I got used to it. I tried to meditate at first but I pretty much zoned out. He came in to ask how I was and did something to one needle. I think I went to sleep after that. When he came back in I felt pretty refreshed (the day was so hectic - thank God for that nap). I can't wait to go back next week and start learning how to do acupressure. I also booked visits for the day I leave (Aug 19) and when I return (Sept 14).
Acupuncture was excellent today. We spent the first 15 minutes going through the acupuncture points that he'll be using in the lead up to us flying out and then he's going to show me at the next few sessions the acupressure points he wants me or DH to work on before retrieval an transfer and then another set of points for after transfer. Then I'll go to see him immediately when I get back. I also have to start doing femoral massage and he gave me additional information with diagrams for that. I also have documents with diagrams for the ear acupressure points. I just need to figure out what tool I feel comfortable enough to use for the acupressure. I am going to try to see if I can get a dental instrument with the ball on the end... we'll see...
We then got into the needles during the day. Since I am about to ovulate the needles were basically focusing on the ovaries and such. It felt different... but I got used to it. I tried to meditate at first but I pretty much zoned out. He came in to ask how I was and did something to one needle. I think I went to sleep after that. When he came back in I felt pretty refreshed (the day was so hectic - thank God for that nap). I can't wait to go back next week and start learning how to do acupressure. I also booked visits for the day I leave (Aug 19) and when I return (Sept 14).
07 July 2009
Sigh...
I am so frustrated, I could scream... or cry... DH just found out that he has to go to Toronto in the midst of our IVF cycle. He'll have to fly out of Vienna, via Amsterdam, to Toronto on Aug 23. He'll return on Aug 27, the day that my mom arrives. That means that we arrive on Aug 20 and 2 days after our first appointment he'll be flying out - and I'll have to do the injections on my own for 5 days... My mom can't change her tickets to come out earlier so I guess I'll be on my own. I was a bit panicky when I first got the news but I am calming down a bit. I was hoping he could get out of this meeting but on the way home his client approved the travel costs.... oh well...
Added to that, in complaining about having to go to Toronto to his mom, he ended up having to tell her that we're going on vacation to do IVF... of course she was concerned why we didn't decide to go to the US. She appeared to feel better about it when DH said that his urologist thought going to the Czech Republic was an excellent idea (she really respects his urologist). DH asked that she not share this information... I don't feel like having family members making comments at this time.... sigh...
I need a weekend!
Added to that, in complaining about having to go to Toronto to his mom, he ended up having to tell her that we're going on vacation to do IVF... of course she was concerned why we didn't decide to go to the US. She appeared to feel better about it when DH said that his urologist thought going to the Czech Republic was an excellent idea (she really respects his urologist). DH asked that she not share this information... I don't feel like having family members making comments at this time.... sigh...
I need a weekend!
06 July 2009
Random Thoughts...
Life is busy and getting busier. Still, it's pretty cool because it is busy with interesting stuff!
I'm getting ready for o-day with an acupuncture appointment on Wednesday. I guess that there is still an optimist in me after all this time.... but I am still a realist and know that I'll pretty much be an appointment in preparation for IVF. The acupuncturist did talk to another patient of his who went to the Czech Republic and she called me yesterday. She invited me to an IVF support group meeting but I cannot make the time that they get together. I will call her though.
I know that I am getting nervous because I am not enjoying visiting the IVF Board lately. It is still a great site for information but I am focusing a lot on the veterans and I just feel so naive going into this. I started a thread for the time we're going and now that it is active I find that I am often afraid to post. I hope to get over these nerves but I often feel like I'll be lectured for being naive since I've never gone through this before. Silly, I know but still....
Anyhow, I'm down about 13lbs and DH is down about 10lbs. If I can lose another 10 lbs then perhaps if I gain 10 through hormones I'll still look normal in the clothing that I take with me. Sure, no one knows me there so public opinion won't be a problem but I'd like to be comfortable if I'm bloated!
Other than that, we sorted out most of my office this weekend. There is one bookcase and a corner left that we'll finish once the solar panels are done and I can put stuff back in the closet (they need access to the crawlspace via my closet so half the stuff was removed to do so). We also have a dresser in the guest bedroom, the rolltop desk downstairs and all of my clothes drawers to organize - I can't fit my t-shirts, etc in them anymore. I know I need to toss some stuff out but it's tough.
I'm making a recipe from a Martha Stewart magazine tonight but I'm going to try to make it healthier... wish me luck!
I'm getting ready for o-day with an acupuncture appointment on Wednesday. I guess that there is still an optimist in me after all this time.... but I am still a realist and know that I'll pretty much be an appointment in preparation for IVF. The acupuncturist did talk to another patient of his who went to the Czech Republic and she called me yesterday. She invited me to an IVF support group meeting but I cannot make the time that they get together. I will call her though.
I know that I am getting nervous because I am not enjoying visiting the IVF Board lately. It is still a great site for information but I am focusing a lot on the veterans and I just feel so naive going into this. I started a thread for the time we're going and now that it is active I find that I am often afraid to post. I hope to get over these nerves but I often feel like I'll be lectured for being naive since I've never gone through this before. Silly, I know but still....
Anyhow, I'm down about 13lbs and DH is down about 10lbs. If I can lose another 10 lbs then perhaps if I gain 10 through hormones I'll still look normal in the clothing that I take with me. Sure, no one knows me there so public opinion won't be a problem but I'd like to be comfortable if I'm bloated!
Other than that, we sorted out most of my office this weekend. There is one bookcase and a corner left that we'll finish once the solar panels are done and I can put stuff back in the closet (they need access to the crawlspace via my closet so half the stuff was removed to do so). We also have a dresser in the guest bedroom, the rolltop desk downstairs and all of my clothes drawers to organize - I can't fit my t-shirts, etc in them anymore. I know I need to toss some stuff out but it's tough.
I'm making a recipe from a Martha Stewart magazine tonight but I'm going to try to make it healthier... wish me luck!
01 July 2009
One less thing to worry about.... Thank Goodness!!!
Thankfully DH's acupuncture visit went well. He ended up being there for 1.5 hours. DH knew our acupuncturist from somewhere and it turned out that DH was backstage on a show that our acupuncturist performed in about 9 years ago. They ended up talking a lot about everything from theatre to renovations and the acupuncture.
As for the needle part, DH said it was a better experience than last time and he doesn't mind going back. He's been put on a herbal combination and we're going to do a few sessions around ovulation and the 2ww to see if it'll make a difference. He actually said that he wished that we would have visited this acupuncturist earlier.... yeah, and it would have been like herding cats to get him there without the IVF date looming over our heads. Anyhow, I'm glad he's doing it and I do hope it helps, either naturally or with the IVF.
As for the needle part, DH said it was a better experience than last time and he doesn't mind going back. He's been put on a herbal combination and we're going to do a few sessions around ovulation and the 2ww to see if it'll make a difference. He actually said that he wished that we would have visited this acupuncturist earlier.... yeah, and it would have been like herding cats to get him there without the IVF date looming over our heads. Anyhow, I'm glad he's doing it and I do hope it helps, either naturally or with the IVF.
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