Therapy Failed

Phase II of Getting Back in Shape Begins TODAY!!

2012-02-01T11:55:00.001-05:00

OK, so I've blogged about getting back in shape by going to the gym. I love it. About killed myself yesterday trying to keep up with a workout routine I downloaded onto my iPod, but I'm "resting" today as the program says. However, I gave myself a one month leeway on tracking what I ate and drank. Since today is February 1, it is time to start writing down everything I eat and drink. If I do this correctly, the weight should start coming off. I am 22 lbs above my goal weight. I have never had to diet before in my life, because I was always active. I still am not calling this a diet because, if done correctly, it will be a life-long way of eating and exercising that I will find enjoyable and easy to maintain.

Wish me luck!!!!

Missed My Blogiversary--January 16th!

2012-01-24T11:57:00.001-05:00

Oops! I totally missed by blogiversary...under different names for a time. But on January 16, 2003 I started my first blog...krushkreations. I can't believe I have been blogging for 9 years but I have met some incredible people through my blogs...in fact, some of those bloggers helped pick my permanent blog name--Therapy Failed--in a survey on my blog! Love you all!!

I enjoy blogging so much and am thankful for all of my readers--past, present, and those yet to find me. I must love blogging, I have done research on it in the past and am currently writing my Doctoral Dissertation on the subject!

Back at It

2012-01-23T12:56:00.001-05:00

I took the weekend off from the gym, although I did manage to get on our elliptical in the basement yesterday. Today, I head back to Snap! I am completely sore and really tired (no idea why) but I'm hoping a good workout will bring me back to life. Then it's home to empty out our closet, we bought the ClosetMaid shelving kit to install once I paint the closet and D helps remove what is currently on the walls. I can't wait and hope it really does give us more space. I would love to have all of my clothes in one closet. Then it's back to writing and working on my next chapter. I meet with my Director on Chapter 1 on Thursday and I hope to have something to show him on Chapter 2 as well.

How is everyone doing?

Slip, Sliding Away

2012-01-19T17:41:00.000-05:00

I made it to the gym today. As I was working out I kept watching it snow outside. I wasn't worried about it because I had the 4WD car. Unfortunately, they had not been out to clean the roads yet. I slid around the bend as I was entering our complex. Then, as I was pulling into the driveway I slid up there also. It was just snow so I don't get why I was sliding. But, I got home OK, and that is all that matters.

Hope everyone has a safe commute tonight.

Yay! I Have Readers and Somewhat Good News on the Medical Front!

2012-01-10T14:11:00.001-05:00

I would respond to each of you, but I still haven't figured out how to extract email addresses from Blogger...I know, I'm dumb. I am so excited that some people are still reading, and for that I thank you!

Somewhat good news from the doctors...my ailments are not life-threatening. In fact, it seems my body is just over-reacting to symptoms that most people wouldn't even notice; i.e. if I have an extra heart beat my body starts to treat it as a past condition--atrial flutter--instead of just ignoring the extra heart beat and starts to respond as if the problem was larger. This means I just have to get used to it and deal with it. But I am allowed to start working out again!!! Yay! Even though we have a fully equipped gym in the basement, I may join a local gym for a couple of months...they offer a month-to-month membership...just so someone is around as I get started again.

First Post of 2012

2012-01-06T11:06:00.001-05:00

If anyone is still reading, please say Hello! I will continue to blog even with no responses, but would love to know there is an audience, no matter how small still out there.

I was blessed to have D home for almost 3 whole weeks over the holidays. He might have been working for part of it, but he was in the house and I got to see him. Now we are back to his crazy travel schedule.

2012 started the same way 2011 ended...I still have no answers on my medical issues and my symptoms aren't getting any better. I have slowed down my posts here because I hate to type "I don't feel good" posts all the time, but it's either that or "I'm writing my dissertation"...I need some outside interests or fun Soxy stories to tell you about. I will leave you with a picture of Soxy after playing in the snow.

Resolutions: How I did in 2011 and What I hope for in 2012

2011-12-31T16:55:00.001-05:00

2011:
1. FINISH my dissertation; even it if kills me. This did not happen, I submitted Chapter 1 right before Christmas break. However, my proposal was approved, so that's a start....Will be moving this to 2012

2. Blog more regularly; shooting for at least once a week. OK, maybe once a month. Will try harder. How can I write a dissertation on blogging without being a good blogger myself.

3. Eat healthier and get back in shape. Ate somewhat healthier...once again health concerns stopped me from getting back in shape.

4. Spend more time with family and friends. I tried, I really tried. I hope I succeeded to some extent.

5. Be the person Soxy thinks I am and live my life so I don't have any regrets. Again, I tried, I really tried...but she has such high expectations of me.

What I hope to accomplish in 2012:

1. Get healthy...find the underlying cause of my medical problems and fix it! I am sick and tired of being sick and tired.

2. FINISH my dissertation; and it might kill me, but it will be done.

3. Eat healthier and get back in shape.

4. Spend more time taking care of the little things that need to be done.

5. Focus more on family and friends...even if it is a phone call or email, I need to stay in touch with those I love and that love me.

What are your resolutions / goals for the New Year?

Wonderful Christmastime!!!!

2011-12-27T21:54:00.001-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year! I hope everyone else had a nice time, as well.

We started Christmas Eve by heading to church for a wonderful service. Then, it was off to my cousin's house.

This picture was taken on Christmas Eve at my cousin's house where my Dad's family gets together every year to celebrate. It was a wonderful time, as always. It is great to see everyone and catch up and watch the kids grow up so quickly. It's also a great time to discuss plans for the family vacation (yes, we all go away together for 5 days).

Christmas morning, I got up early to put the ham in the oven and make final preparation for my immediate family, and my aunt, to come over for Christmas breakfast. I pulled out my Mrs. Claus apron to make and serve breakfast!

After breakfast we exchanged presents and visited for a while. Soxy had to help open all of the presents.

Then it was time for my brother to head to his in-laws and for us to head down to visit D's family. It was a great time as always. The kids are getting so big and seemed to have a very good Christmas.

Then it was the drive back home to crawl in to bed and be thankful for another wonderful Christmas with family!

I Wish You a Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T21:45:00.000-05:00

I know I am a few days early, but Christmas Eve and Christmas Day will be very busy around here...

- I must finish cleaning tomorrow as my family will be here Christmas morning for breakfast
- Tomorrow evening D and I will go to church
- After church my Dad's family all gets together at my cousin's house to visit
- Christmas morning my family will be here to exchange presents and have breakfast
- After my family heads out, we will pile in the car and drive down to D's family's house to celebrate Christmas with them...

Not much time to blog unless I attempt to do it from my phone over the next couple of days.

Go Visit Rude Cactus!!

2011-12-13T18:33:00.000-05:00

Hi,

If anyone is reading this, please go over to Rude Cactus and leave a comment. For today only, Chris is donating money to the Fisher House for each comment. Four of his readers have matched his donation and the total is $1.25 for each comment to such a worthy cause...helping those who serve our country!!

More Doctors...

2011-11-29T19:30:00.001-05:00

Once again I am back on a heart monitor, this time for a month. I hope that they can figure out what is going on this time. So far, the monitor people haven't seen anything to worry about. In fact, they haven't seen anything other than my pacemaker kicking in. I just want answers!!!!

Life Update

2011-11-21T21:02:00.001-05:00

Halloween was fun, although cold and wet. We moved the "party" into my neighbor's garage and enjoyed our apple cider and witches costumes while staying dry.

Thanksgiving is coming up quickly and we will be celebrating with my family. I am in charge of desserts and will be making pumpkin and apple pies, as well as a cream puff cake.

Friday involves marathon shopping...or as long as I can make it since my breathing is still completely screwed up. I have finished most of my shopping already but going shopping on Black Friday is a family tradition.

Monday I finally get to see my cardiologist to find out why things were going great and then suddenly crashed and burned!

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T15:04:00.000-04:00

I never looked forward to Halloween until a few years ago. When my neighbors moved in next door we started having fun by handing out candy to the kids near the end of our driveways at the electrical box between our houses. Last year was spiced apple wine and lots of laughs. This year we are ready to go:

--Witches hats for me and my neighbor
--A Halloween tablecloth for the electrical box
--Apple cider in the crock pot
--My nephew coming down to Trick-or-Treat because he missed his due to snow and the flu...he's 8 and this is the first year he really wanted to go so his mom is bringing him to our house
--Soxy even has a costume for this year!!!

Hope you all have a fun and safe Halloween!!!

Life Update...

2011-10-20T13:06:00.001-04:00

Still writing and reading. Took my first chapter to my director and was told it was a solid first draft, now do this, this, this, and this. Was hoping for something a little more finished, but I just keep going.

Soxy and I are enjoying spending time snuggling in the chilly fall weather, especially when we can do it in front of the fireplace.

Off to clean the house as it seriously needs it.

RIP Steve Jobs

2011-10-05T20:37:00.005-04:00

Steve Jobs passed away

Such a loss to the tech community.

Here is a wonderful reminder of the visionary he was.

Flu Season...

2011-10-04T22:00:00.002-04:00

...has found me. It's really early in the season, but my doctor diagnosed me yesterday with the flu. I hadn't gotten my flu shot yet because I was waiting for all of my test results to come back and also because I thought it would make more sense for D and I to go together early in the season before it was a real threat. Guess I waited too long.

This is not helping me get my dissertation written, my house clean, my laundry done.... I was so excited that I was finally feeling better and making some progress on my writing, but now I am down again. Hopefully this will pass quickly as I started feeling sick on Sunday and received my medication yesterday afternoon.

Hope all of my readers are doing well.

Answers...Maybe

2011-09-28T13:17:00.000-04:00

OK, the doctors did a heart catheterization and found some things that may be causing my problems:
1. enlarged right side of the heart (expected with my heart defect).
2. pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in my lungs and heart)...kind of amazing since my blood pressure is amazingly low otherwise.

Treatment so far has been medication; unfortunately, it could take up to 1 month for the meds to become effective, so now it's a waiting game to see if it works.

Thanks for all reading for your support and concern. You guys are the best.

SSDD

2011-09-21T18:31:00.001-04:00

Still having chest pains and trouble breathing. They have run test after test and haven't found anything. They did a heart catherization on Monday and I still don't have any results. However, they have ruled out anything life-threatening...just life inhibiting.

Sorry for Being MIA

2011-08-01T14:05:00.000-04:00

It has been a crazy month or so. First of all, I feel like crap and had to wear a heart monitor for two weeks...including while I was on vacation at Geneva-On-The-Lake, OH. I had a good time with my family...we take over most of the motel where we stay. Only a good time because during the day I had to stay in the motel room because of the heat and my health issues. They think I might be in atrial fibrillation again...but I won't know for sure until Wednesday.

Also, I have been writing my little heart out trying to get my dissertation completed. I am still on Chapter 1 so I don't think I will be finished by September 1. Today we are going to pick up y niece and she is going to come visit for the week. I hope she remembers to bring something to keep herself occupied while I am writing and D is working. Soxy will keep her entertained, I'm sure.

Name Change...

2011-07-08T00:02:00.000-04:00

I have decided to use my real name on the blog going forward. Besides all of the research that I have done saying not to hide behind a pseudonym, I realize that most everyone who reads the blog with any regularity already knows my name...so why "hide behind the mask"?

Hello everyone, my name is Kristin and I am a blogger and the "creator" of "TherapyFailed"! Welcome, if you are new and Welcome Back if you are a return visitor!! :-)

Happy Belated 4th!

2011-07-05T11:45:00.000-04:00

Two dozen roses from D for our anniversary!!

Sorry I have been MIA for a while. I have been researching and writing quite a bit. Plus we are in the middle of a Master bath remodel that is taking some of my time also.

This Saturday D and I celebrated six years of marriage! Some days it feels like we've been together forever and other days it feels like we just got married yesterday.

The weekend was spent on projects and just hanging out. Since D travels so much for work, I don't get to see him much. We did go to Shakespeare's Restaurant for lunch on our anniversary. It is the place we had our luncheon after the wedding and we try to go back every year to celebrate. Always a great time...

I hope everyone had an enjoyable and safe Independence Day!

Buffett...Once Again I Will Miss the Show

2011-06-21T15:55:00.000-04:00

Well, despite having last-minute tickets just about handed to me, I am going to play it safe and listen to the concert on my XM radio as opposed to going to it. D brought up a valid point yesterday when I told him I had the chance to go...if I got sick while I was at the concert I would have to drive myself home...after my "episode" last year I decided not to take that chance and just listen to the concert from home....This way I can have several margaritas and not worry about driving!

To all my friends who are going to the concert...Have a great time!!! Think of me and wiggle those grass skirts one extra time in my absence!!

Have a Bet with My Husband...Need Some Encouragement!

2011-06-13T22:09:00.001-04:00

OK, so D is getting a little "frustrated" that I am not moving faster on the dissertation...so much so that "Mr. Frugal" has wagered $1,000 that I can't have all five chapters, in draft form, submitted by September 1st. OK, so, why am I telling the blogosphere this? I need encouragement and some gentle nudging to help me get there...I am still researching Chapter 1!

Cape May, NJ 2011

2011-06-01T12:52:00.000-04:00

D and I spent 4 wonderful days in Cape May, NJ. The weather was perfect! Here we are on Sunset Beach our last night. It was wonderful to get away and just spend some time together. All of my pictures are posted on Facebook, as there are too many to post here.

I was pleasantly surprised that I was able to bike the three miles down to the Lighthouse, climb to the top, and then bike back. It was a fabulous trip!!!

I was very glad, after seeing the craziness on Friday night, that we went off-season as I don't think I could handle the kids and teens on a regular basis. We had a nice, relaxing time and hope to make long weekends a regular part of our spring.

On the Road Tomorrow!!

2011-05-24T21:57:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow morning D and I leave for Cape May, NJ!!! I am so excited! I have been there twice before but D has not seen it yet. I cannot wait to show him the town.

Beach Vacation on the Horizon

2011-05-12T11:55:00.000-04:00

I apologize for being MIA lately...I swore I would get better at blogging this year. I have been busy reading and writing and trying to keep my house in a semblence of order the past month or so. To that end, I finally had the VVA pick up the 12 (yes, 12) bags of clothes we wanted to donate and had been lying around for over 3 months. That definitely helped clear things up quite a bit.

On a more relaxing note, our vacation to Cape May, NJ is only 2 weeks away!!! I am so excited to get my toes in the sand and so thankful that we have family that comes to stay with Soxy when we travel...there is no worries about if she is enjoying the kennel or afraid we aren't coming back (she is a pound rescue after all).

Can't wait to show D Cape May! He has never been there before and I fell in love on my first trip, years ago. Since it has been at least 7 years since I was there, if you have traveled there more recently is there anywhere we need to make sure that we see?

Great Weekend with Family

2011-04-26T21:50:00.000-04:00

As has been tradition since D and I got married, my mother had us over for Baked Spaghetti on Good Friday, that way we don't have to run around on Easter and then go to work the next day. It was very nice and we had a Dairy Queen cake for my Dad's birthday (which isn't until May 1) since my brother won't be in town for it.

Sunday we went to mass and then came home and packed up Soxy and headed to D's parents. We were down there for the day and our niece and nephew had an egg hunt. It was great to see everyone, especially Grandmother. We made it back around 9:00 because I had to be in class at 8:00 Monday morning.

I am feeling better, health wise, but managed to end up with a strained tendon from playing with my furry niece and nephews (a Boxer, a Rottweiler / German Shephard mix, and a Neopolitan Mastiff). But it was totally worth it! I haven't seen them in forever!

APPROVED!

2011-04-11T23:21:00.001-04:00

One of the best words I have ever heard!! Once I get back from a conference on Sunday I will start writing my dissertation chapters!

Finally Have a Date...

2011-03-30T18:04:00.000-04:00

After about 2 1/2 weeks of waiting I finally have a proposal defense date! I will defend my proposal for my dissertation on April 11th. Shortly after that I will be heading to a conference in DC, hopefully as having successfully defended my proposal.

Dammit, Dammit Dammit!!

2011-03-22T12:30:00.002-04:00

Well, they finally got my meds straightened out and now I have a cold or a sinus infection and feel like crap today!! How can I get more than 1 day in a row of feeling good? Is that really too much to ask? (But at least I'm not dizzy or numb!)

I Do Believe We Have a Solution!!

2011-03-21T20:10:00.000-04:00

I stopped taking my one blood pressure medication and I haven't been dizzy or lightheaded at all. OK well, maybe just once, but I had a migraine...so it was justified. I am so excited that this finally has stopped and I'm feeling like myself again. I was even able to take Soxy for a walk by myself today. The first time I've felt steady enough to to that since last May!!

Medical Update...

2011-03-09T20:06:00.000-05:00

Well, last May I blacked out behind the wheel; I've been getting dizzy and light-headed with no explanation. I have had a ton of tests and bloodwork. I HATE needles!! So they finally came up with the conclusion that I am taking too much medication. That they have me on so many blood pressure medications that they have made it almost non-existent! Hopefully this round of "experiments" will work. I know I'm blonde, but I'm tired of walking around dizzy!

Moving Forward

2011-02-11T18:50:00.000-05:00

Well, I met with my Director yesterday and I am still moving forward on my proposal. Unfortunately, starting on Super Bowl Sunday I have had some numbness in my left side. I have started with a new neurologist and hopefully she can find something.

For Valentine's Day, D and I are going to the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's production of "Dracula" and then we have dinner reservations at The Pittsburgh Fish Market. I haven't been to the Fish Market in years and am very much looking forward to it, especially since I got the deal off of CBS Local Offers...very similar to Groupon.

Pittsburgh's Playing in the Super Bowl!!

2011-02-06T20:45:00.001-05:00

And as of the second half, they have shown up to play! Stairway to Seven Baby!!

Oops x2...Both Blog Related: De-Lurking Day and 8 Year Blogiversary!!

2011-01-18T11:59:00.002-05:00

1. I completely missed De-Lurking Day this year...totally bummed about that because I find it fun to see who says hello and who is still reading.

2. Completely missed my anniversary this year. January 16 (Sunday) was 8 years since I started blogging. This is it's third iteration as it started under a different name, moved to MT and finally landed at blogger. So happy I started blogging as I have met some great people along the way.

Please say HI if you are still reading.

Here We Go...

2011-01-15T16:52:00.000-05:00

STEELERS!! Watching the playoff game and knowing the Black and Gold can pull out a win!

Great Day...

2011-01-10T18:18:00.001-05:00

So far I am loving my classes at school. Granted it was only the first day, but my students seemed interested, even though it's a required course.

It is only a 1/2 hour commute from home to campus, so that's also great.

Finally got my prescription filled...it only took 5 days for the doctor's office to call it in.

Got my tests results back and there is no sign of major neurological damage to my neck; which just means I have to learn to live with the pain in my neck since there doesn't seem to be a cause. Yay :sarcasm:

AUGH!! I HATE going to the doctor's and spending the day

2011-01-06T09:54:00.001-05:00

OK, so I think I mentioned on Facebook that I fell on the ice and sprained my foot, ripped my knee to shreds and jarred my neck right before the holidays. Well, yesterday, I went to see my neurologist because my neck is still giving me trouble. What should've been a 20-25 minute visit turned into 3 hours as he did X-rays of my neck, CT of my neck and brain, and an EEG to make sure it wasn't caused by a seizure...NO, I slipped on the ice silly!!!

Anyway, I really do hate spending so much time at the doctor's but I needed to know what was going on. After that, I went to campus to get my ID photo taken and turn in all of my HR paperwork so that I can start teaching on Monday. I can't wait! I love meeting new students and I get to do so at a new school! I feel like a kid in a candy store. :-)

First Monday of the New Year...

2011-01-03T20:11:00.000-05:00

Didn't realize that today was Monday. D still had off from work, so I didn't realize that it was Monday. Guess I will get back to work tomorrow on my research and prepping for the class I start teaching in a week. Also, luckily, I didn't eat too badly today or do anything else to mess up one of my resolutions already. Still going strong! :-) I even signed up for the 100 Days Challenge on Facebook. Can't wait to do this!!

Should've Finished Projects...Instead We Went Shopping

2011-01-02T22:23:00.000-05:00

We completed most projects while D was on vacation the last two weeks. However, there is one project left that neither of us really wants to tackle...cleaning out our closet. We talked about doing it today, but instead, we went shopping. One of my favorite stores, Christopher & Banks was having a 50% off sale, so we ran there. And, of course that meant we wandered around the mall after that and then to Wal-Mart and finally home. We didn't get home until it was time for dinner, so I got dinner ready while D and Soxy took a walk around the neighborhood. Maybe we can tackle the closet tomorrow as D doesn't go back to work until Tuesday.

I still have a week until I start my new job!

New Year's Resolutions...How I Did in 2010 and What I'm Planning for 2011!

2011-01-01T19:51:00.002-05:00

How did I do on my 2010 resolutions?
1. Get back in shape and lose the weight my doctor's are telling me to lose (10 lbs, not too bad). Determined not to have another hospital stay by listening to my doctors.
Did not do so great with this...but I have a legitimate reason--my doctors didn't release me to start working out again until October.

2. Start, and hopefully finish, my dissertation...it is time to become gainfully employed again.
Still working on my proposal...moving slower than I thought it would. Will be moving this forward to 2011.

3. FOCUS (on anything and everything). I need to regain my focus, I have not had much in the latter part of 2009.
Got better, but not great.

4. Spend less time with Facebook. This may be my toughest one as I LOVE Facebook; I may even start blogging on a regular basis again, since that is part of my dissertation!
Somewhat better on the blogging, definitely not better on Facebook.

5. Spend LOTS more time with my family. None of us are getting any younger, and I really do love and like my family. More time definitely with D and Soxy...as they are most important to me.
Did better than in 2009, but would still like to spend more time with them. It became more difficult as D took a job where he is gone most weekdays...flying, so he doesn't come home as much as when he drove.

And now, my 2011 Resolutions:
1. FINISH my dissertation; even it if kills me.

2. Blog more regularly; shooting for at least once a week.

3. Eat healthier and get back in shape.

4. Spend more time with family and friends.

5. Be the person Soxy thinks I am and live my life so I don't have any regrets.

Happy 2011!!

2010-12-31T21:05:00.000-05:00

Will post New Year's Resolutions and an update tomorrow! Off to the hot tub after celebrating a German New Year in Harmony, PA...on German time. The ball dropped at 6 PM and I was home before the drunks hit the road!

Be safe but have fun!! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

Soxy is Usually D's Dog, UNLESS...

2010-12-28T21:01:00.000-05:00

I am sick. Soxy would not leave my side for the week before and during Christmas. I had the stomach virus that was going around and, unlike most, it lasted for over a week, not just 24-48 hours. Soxy was right by my side, no matter where D went, she was with me and if she went after him, he knew something was wrong and he needed to come see me. Now, when D is not home, Soxy is my shadow, but usually I can't get her attention if he is around. She is a very good doctor!

Merry Christmas Eve!!

2010-12-24T10:37:00.000-05:00

To all of my friends and readers:

I wish you a very Merry Christmas with your family and friends! May Santa bring you everything you want and may you remember the true meaning of Christmas!!

Smiles,

I Think I'm Ready for Christmas...

2010-12-14T12:49:00.000-05:00

Presents are bought and wrapped
Tree and house are decorated
Sweater is bought for Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
Cards are mailed...finally!!
Snow is falling; weather is too cold
Ham is bought for Christmas morning. I get to host my family's Christmas celebration this year; am excited but sad because I get to host because my Mother has pneumonia and shouldn't be doing anything until she heals completely!

What are your plans for Christmas?

Still Time to Exchange Christmas Cards...

2010-12-07T13:28:00.001-05:00

I am still dragging my feet on this holiday assignment. Everything else is pretty much done, but I just can't get motivated to write out my cards. So please post a comment...with email...if you would like to exchange Christmas cards and I will email you so that we can exchange addresses.

Much holiday cheer...and Christmas joy,

Update on Life...Again

2010-12-02T14:02:00.001-05:00

It seems like all I do around here anymore is post bulletted lists of updates on life. Once again, that is what I have come to do...

Still working on my proposal...so thought I'd be done by now.
Have the inside of the house completely decorated for Christmas...now if it would quit snowing long enough for me to put up the outside decorations.
Have not even thought about writing up the cards for this year...so you have time to get on the list if you'd like one. Just email me with your address.
All presents that have been purchased and received have been wrapped; still waiting for a few to come in the mail.
Have my 3rd or 4th cold of the season, already...sick and tired of being sick and tired.
Missing D, but he has one more trip this year and then I get him at home until after New Year's.
Spent my Black Friday with my cousin's, as always. Had a great time! Took my niece this year, it was an adventure.
Finished cardiac rehab and felt great; working out with my neighbor once I beat this cold. It hurts to breathe normally, not going to over-exert myself right now.
Soxy is mad at me as the tree is up in her favorite room, and I had to put the baby gate up to keep her out. Not that she would intentionally damage the tree, but her tail has a mind of its own; and she seems to have no control over it.
Spent Thanksgiving with D's family, but stopped at my parents on the way home. It was nice to see everyone.
Mom is really sick, D is out of town, as is my brother, so it is up to my Dad to take care of Mom, check on me, and check on my sister-in-law...as that is what my parents do.
Am making a New Year's Resolution now to blog more than 1x/month!

What is going on with you? How is your holiday shopping and planning coming?

Update

2010-10-31T20:03:00.000-04:00

Just a quick update on life...

D travels basically 4 days a week for work; usually flying out Monday and coming back Thursday. However, on weeks he's not travelling he gets to work from home!!

I have been working hard on my dissertation proposal...still not done, but getting there.

Soxy is still the best dog ever!!

Going through cardiac rehab and I am definitely the youngest person there; however, it seems to be helping.

Sigma Delta Phi 90th Reunion

2010-10-09T13:55:00.002-04:00

We had such a wonderful time at the reunion! Catching up with old friends; making new friends; meeting all of our sisters!!

I need to thank my dear husband for being so kind as to take all of these pictures even though I pretty much abandoned him for the evening as I chatted. Thanks D, I love you!!

Old Friends...Good Times

2010-10-05T12:35:00.001-04:00

Last night I had dinner with three friends. Doesn't sound like any big deal, does it? However, we determined that I hadn't seen or talked to the one girl in 10 years and the other two mainly in passing at events; nothing too in-depth. We met at 6:00 and I left around 10:30. It was so great to catch up with my girls. I didn't realize how much I missed them until I saw them last night. I hope this time we can keep in touch...gotta love Facebook as this is how we got back in touch with each other.

Percocet = No Focus / No Motivation

2010-09-28T19:00:00.000-04:00

Wow, my hip doesn't hurt right now, but my focus and motivation is shot. I was given a prescription for Percocet yesterday and although the pain is gone, I cannot focus at all. I need to get my focus back as I have a literature review to write by Thursday.

Life, in Bullets...

2010-09-23T12:37:00.000-04:00

because an actual post would be too long.

- did not go on vacation because of a death in the family...not at all upset about it, just saying.
- did fall down the gravel hillside and thought I was dead...not dead but still really sore and black and blue
- working on my dissertation proposal, getting closer to being done
- spending the week at home with D...getting some things done
- got the hottub and LOVING it!!
- D had a birthday...he is now in the 40 club with me
- did coat the deck with a neat, non-skid product and it looks like new...still have the vertical surfaces to do
- took Soxy to the vet and got a clean bill of health...first time that she didn't have an ear infection in a while

Story of my life in a nutshell; what are you all up to?

Inspirational New Site in "Other Places to Visit"

2010-09-17T11:52:00.000-04:00

I just read an article about "Operation Beautiful" and think it is a fabulous idea. I have added the link to my "Other Places to Visit" section. One lady has started a revolution and anyone can join in. Just leave an uplifting note somewhere for a stranger or strangers to find...it will make their day.

Check it out!! I will be taking post-it notes with me on vacation as I stop at Reststops on the highway and in different places that we visit.

Busy Week...No Motivation

2010-09-09T20:05:00.000-04:00

I have a lot to do this week in terms of research, writing, and cleaning my house. However, I am not feeling 100%...I think it is a sinus infection or allergies...and therefore I am having trouble concentrating. I have a meeting for my proposal tomorrow morning and I have not gotten near enough work done on my revisions.

10 Commandments of Dog Parenting

2010-09-01T10:57:00.001-04:00

once again, found over at Lucy's Human...

1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be very painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me - it is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment. I HAVE ONLY YOU.

5. Talk to me, Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it's speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I'll NEVER forget it.

7. Before you hit me, remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting old and weak.

9. Take care of me when I get old. You, too, will grow old.

10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, "I can't bear to watch it" or, "Let it happen in my absence."

Everything is easier for me if you are there.

Remember, I love you.

I Rescued a Human Today

2010-08-25T14:26:00.000-04:00

I read this over at Lucy's Human and totally had to share...I know that somehow Soxy rescued us!

I Rescued A Human Today
Author: Janine Allen CPDT

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.

As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life. She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her.

Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well.

Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes. I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.

I rescued a human today.

Vacation Booked!!

2010-08-17T10:09:00.002-04:00

Four beautiful days in Cape May with D!!! We will be there for his 40th birthday so, if anyone is familiar wtih the area, can you suggest somewhere nice to celebrate?

I have been to Cape May twice before but this is D's first trip. I can't wait for him to see the beauty that is Cape May!!

Proposal Turned In...Relaxing Weekend

2010-08-16T15:29:00.000-04:00

On Thursday afternoon I submitted a draft of my proposal to my Dissertation Director. Now I am just waiting for feedback from him.

Thursday night our neighbors came over and we listened to the Jimmy Buffett concert on XM while drinking margaritas and eating cheeseburgers. It was a lot of fun.

Friday we relaxed...Saturday we did some running...Sunday we visited D's parents and grandmother. It is always nice to visit them and Grandmother loves to see Soxy.

All in all a good weekend...long weekend.

Today, however, sucks...I am on Day 2 of my migraine and the pills don't seem to be working today. AUGH!!

Great Time at the Lake...

2010-07-28T16:33:00.024-04:00

I had a fabulous time with my family last week / weekend, but I am now paying for it. As our annual trip arrived I had not completed my proposal as I had set the goal to do . My cousin, her husband, and her daughter came up the Saturday before and I was too busy playing with her daughter and catching up with her and her husband to do much work.

The reunion was great, except for the fact that I'm an idiot!! Seems I put sunblock everywhere but on my chest. Saturday I realized that my chest had blistered like crazy. Luckily, my cousin is a nurse and told me how to treat it and not to worry too much.

All in all we had a great time laying by the pool, hanging out as a family, and doing a bar crawl. Can family reunions get any better than that?

Here is a picture of all of the girls in the family...in our cool t-shirts my cousin designed!

And because we hadn't taken our 5-year anniversary picture yet, we also did that at the reunion, in our cool t-shirts.

As always it was a fabulous time with the family. I'm already missing everyone.

Update and New Sweetheart!

2010-07-20T11:45:00.005-04:00

Down to just two things left to accomplish on my To Do list. It's the last remaining item on the list--finish Proposal--that might be a killer for me. I hope to pack tonight as my cousin and her family went to see Niagara Falls today...and will be staying there tonight instead of with us as they have been since Saturday (hence, the need to clean the house so badly). I have fallen in love with her daughter and want to keep her after the Family Reunion.

Off to work on the Proposal; will pack when D gets home as Soxy doesn't like me being in the attic which is where my suitcases are.

Here is a picture of my cousin's daughter, having jelly toast at one of my favorite diners.

Before Leaving for the Family Reunion...** An Update

2010-07-15T19:58:00.003-04:00

I must:

~~- Clean the house~~
~~- Do laundry~~
- Pack
- Finish my proposal for my dissertation
~~- RELAX~~

I leave ~~next~~ Thursday...do you think it can be done? I'm having my doubts...but will try.

Better Than Expected...Trying Again

2010-07-09T12:26:00.003-04:00

OK, if there is anyone still reading, I could use some bloggy encouragement and love.

I did better on my list yesterday than I thought I would, so I'm trying it again. Today I hope to:

1. Dust
2. ~~Do laundry~~
3. ~~Empty the dishwasher~~
4. ~~Work long and hard on my proposal...maybe even email it off to my Director~~
5. ~~Relax with D when he gets home from work.~~

Plan for Today

2010-07-08T11:06:00.002-04:00

Maybe if I put it out there on the Internet...I might actually be productive.

~~1. Get milk~~
~~2. Get grass seed~~
~~3. Vaccuum~~
~~4. Straighten~~ / Dust
5. Finish and submit dissertation proposal...REMEMBER it is only a DRAFT and there will be revisions!!!

Happy Independence Day!!

2010-07-04T20:23:00.000-04:00

Please take a moment to remember those that have risked or lost their life defending our freedoms! Also, take a moment to thank their families for giving us their loved ones for any amount of time.

God Bless America!

Happy Anniversary D!!

2010-07-02T15:08:00.000-04:00

Five years ago today I married the most amazing man I have ever ever met! I am so happy that he asked me to be his wife. Thank you for standing by me through my PhD work and all of my medical issues. You truly are the love of my life and my best friend!! I love you, D!!

Newest Addition to the Family is Here!!!

2010-06-29T17:33:00.000-04:00

My cousin gave birth to her daughter last evening...somewhere around 7:30 pm...she was 8 lbs 13 0z and 20 inches. Mom, Dad and baby are doing great!! I hope to meet her tomorrow. I wanted to give the parents a chance to rest as Mom had been in labor since 3:00 that morning.

Weird Comment Issue...Can Anyone Help?

2010-06-16T12:19:00.000-04:00

If anyone is using Blogger and can help with this problem, I would greatly appreciate it. I am receiving comments on my posts, but the comment counter is not changing. For example: my "Final Countdown" post has two comments but the counter still says 0...any thoughts?

FINAL COUNTDOWN

2010-06-15T18:25:00.003-04:00

Well, today is June 15...that means only 12 days until my 30s are over. It hasn't really hit yet, either that or I really just don't care...not sure which.

Great Time at Baby Shower for My Cousin

2010-06-13T22:24:00.000-04:00

We had a great time at the shower! Monica looks so great!! Em did her usual fabulous job with being the hostess and the food was fabulous.

All of those that attended the shower will be receiving a copy of this photo as part of your shower favor; I hope you all remembered to take your frames! :-)

Thanks to all who travelled to make it to the party!

New Blog Dedicated to My Dissertation

2010-06-07T16:14:00.000-04:00

Just an FYI if anyone is interested in the progress of my dissertation, or my research, I have started a new blog specifically for that project so I don't use this blog solely for my research and bore the majority of my readers. The new blog is http://kristinsdissertationblog.blogspot.com/; join me if you would like. :-)

Keeping the Blog Alive...Dropping the URL...

2010-06-03T14:21:00.001-04:00

Hi all,

I will also be posting something to this effect on Twitter and Facebook. I am not going to renew therapyfailed.com as I don't blog enough to pay for the name. However, I am keeping the blog alive at http://therapyfailed.blogspot.com/. I hope to add more content in the future, as I know I have been a slacker, but please update your link if you haven't changed it over already.

Thanks,
Krush

Family Weekend...Nothing Productive Accomplished

2010-05-03T10:57:00.000-04:00

This weekend was spent with my family. It was a good weekend, but things did not get done. Saturday found us up early and taking Soxy for a walk. Then I spoke with my parents and we were going to stop over there after breakfast to drop off some stones my parents wanted...also, it was my Dad's birthday, so we wanted to visit.

Before we even got our breakfast, our landscaper called and wanted to stop by and clarify some things for the work he is hoping to start this week; so back to the house we came. While we were waiting on Cap, our neighbor's daughter saw us and wanted to come play with Soxy. Since he was trying to spread mulch and she was having so much fun, I kept an eye on her while he did his yardwork and D talked to Cap.

Around 1:00, we originally left the house at 9:30, we headed to my parents and dropped off the stones. We visitied for a while and wished Dad a happy birthday and then we were off and running.

Sunday found us at my cousin's for her son's First Communion. It was a nice party and we got to see the family, including my Jeff's wife whom we hadn't seen since Jeff's funeral...she looks good. After that we came back home to let Soxy out and make sure the storms weren't too rough on her. Then we turned around and headed back to the South Hills for dinner at my parents' for Dad's birthday. We headed home shortly after 7:00 and spent the night working on the computers and watching TV. Overall a good weekend, but my final grades still aren't done for my classes which ended on Friday.

How was your weekend?

Burnt Out...Need a Break

2010-04-13T21:10:00.000-04:00

I feel like I have done nothing but grade papers this semester. I need a break. So, why did I agree to take a summer class to teach?

I need to get moving on my proposal, but I am so burnt that I can't even focus. I need a vacation from school!!

So Excited...

2010-03-25T23:13:00.000-04:00

After months of reading and thinking, my Director has finally given me the go-ahead to start writing my proposal for my dissertation. This must be approved before I can start writing the chapters. Now the fun begins!!

5 Years Ago...

2010-03-17T10:34:00.004-04:00

D asked me to be his wife...the best decision I ever made was to say yes!!

I love you more today than I did the day I said yes! I hope that I have done nothing to make you regret that decision. All my love +2 weeks!!

New Car

2010-03-16T23:34:00.000-04:00

Well, new to us. D and I purchased a Volvo S60 today. Here is a picture from the dealer's Website. I got to drive it home. I LOVE it!! Too bad it is supposed to be his car. ;-)

Guilt, Sunshine, and Dog-Induced Coronaries!!

2010-03-11T11:26:00.000-05:00

I have been very neglectful of both my blog and my blog followers. I have not had much to say, but when I do, I don't seem to be replying to comments. I will try to get better. However, does anyone know how to retrieve email addresses from Blogger? I can't seem to retrieve the email addresses left so that I can respond to commenters. I am making a Springtime resolution to get better with this.

I love that I am on Spring Break and there is actually sunshine. Soxy and I took a short walk yesterday before I put her in the car to go to the vet. Although she and D have been out during the winter, my health does not let me enjoy this with them. So yesterday was our first walk since October.

Soxy decided that she wanted to visit her favorite vet-tech yesterday when we arrived at the office. She was so excited to see April that she couldn't go around the desk and instead attempted to hurdle the wall. I do believe she would've made it if I hadn't been in such shock that I forgot to let go of her lead. She still has quite the energy for a six-year old with hip dysplesia (sp).

I hope you are enjoying these spring days and getting some sunshine on your shoulders...OK I am a geek, I just quoted John Denver lyrics.

I'm done now!!

More Snow

2010-02-27T22:48:00.000-05:00

Where is all this snow going to go when it melts? I have no idea. Busy day...without much accomplished.

Quick list:

- we went out to breakfast
- picked up my prescription and some groceries
- looked for a new kitchen table and daybed for the 2nd guest bedroom; found nothing
- started laundry (did not get it all done)
- started cleaning (did not get it all done)
- returned a faucet to Home Depot to purchase same one with the correct finish at Lowe's
- had the stitches removed from my thumb
- made a pizza for dinner because it was too late to make the steaks
- watching the Olympics for the first time this year; just saw America win gold in Bobsledding and am really enjoying the Canadian ice dancers as I type

Belated Blog Anniversary...1/16/03

2010-01-30T15:45:00.002-05:00

I find it hard to believe that I started blogging seven years ago, but I have. Unfortunately, due to name changes and formatting changes, I have lost quite a bit of my blog files.

I have met some fabulous people and many I consider friends thanks to my blog. I would like to especially say thanks to Firewalk who set up my original blog and kept me up and running for the most part when I was using MT.

Seven years...that may be the longest I've committed to anything in my life. ;-)

He was Loved and Known by Many

2010-01-27T20:03:00.000-05:00

Jeff's Obituary

Jeff Getz 1956-2010

2010-01-24T10:18:00.006-05:00

My cousin passed away this morning after a long battle with cancer. He was only 53. I will miss him. He was not only my cousin, but also my Godfather and my friend.

Here is a photo of him "giving me away" at the poolside wedding my family threw for D and I at the family reunion since I always wanted a wedding by the water.

I will miss you Jeff. I love you! I am glad you are no longer in pain.

Prayers Requested for my Cousin

2010-01-19T19:45:00.002-05:00

Hi all, if I could please ask for prayers and healing thoughts for my cousin. It seems that his cancer is getting worse and the end is near. I wish that I had better news. My other cousin and I are hoping to go visit tomorrow. I am sad at the news and feel very bad for his wife and daughter.

DeLurker Day...Thursday (posting early because of my schedule)

2010-01-13T21:38:00.007-05:00

If you visit and don't comment, please do so today as it is DeLurker Day! If you visit and you do comment, please say Hello!! I will be around to visit at some point today.

Trying Something New

2010-01-08T21:14:00.003-05:00

I decided to play around with the look of "Therapy Failed" because I was getting bored with the old layout. That's not to say this is where it will end up, but I like the parchment feel of this layout.

Let me know what you think!

Kitchen Remodel...Before and After

2010-01-04T13:30:00.022-05:00

Before:

After:

Kitchen Remodel...Update

2010-01-03T21:23:00.002-05:00

This weekend was spent finishing our kitchen remodel! D and I grouted the tile that he and his dad installed two or so weeks ago. We also caulked and I was able to put the kitchen back together today. If I think of it I will take pictures to post tomorrow. We went from a "sunny yellow" to a "cinnamon" we finished a natural stone backsplash and put down a Silestone countertop to replace the white formica one. We swapped out the hardware for oil-rubbed bronze as opposed to the brass and chrome. I love it!! I will post pictures as soon as I take them. D thinks he has some pictures of the old kitchen so I can post before and after pictures.

Goodbye 2009 / Hello 2010

2009-12-31T14:27:00.005-05:00

As has become tradition, here are my resolutions and results from this year and my resolutions for next year.

I hope everyone has a safe New Year's Eve and that 2010 is your best year to date!!

Resoultion Recap:

2009 Resolutions:

1. Study hard and pass Comprehensive Exams in May. OK passed the last one in September, but they are passed!!

2. Get back in shape...I am currently at my highest weight ever! This last semester was stressful and I stress eat. Lost quite a bit of the weight, but I'm not sure I'm "in shape" just yet.

3. Spend more time with D and Soxy...at least pay them more attention when we are together. Got better at this, but need to get better still.

4. Work harder at making my students learn how to learn instead of just sharing information. Got better at this, but need to get better still.

5. Spend more time with family and friends--especially those not in my program. Got better at this, but need to get better still.

6. Get to Virginia to meet the newest member of my family...she was born in June and I still haven't met her. Haven't met her yet...I will!!

And now, for my 2010 resolutions:

1. Get back in shape and lose the weight my doctor's are telling me to lose (10 lbs, not too bad). Determined not to have another hospital stay by listening to my doctors.

2. Start, and hopefully finish, my dissertation...it is time to become gainfully employed again.

3. FOCUS (on anything and everything). I need to regain my focus, I have not had much in the latter part of 2009.

4. Spend less time with Facebook. This may be my toughest one as I LOVE Facebook; I may even start blogging on a regular basis again, since that is part of my dissertation!

5. Spend LOTS more time with my family. None of us are getting any younger, and I really do love and like my family. More time definitely with D and Soxy...as they are most important to me.

Loving My New Laptop

2009-12-28T19:40:00.002-05:00

My old laptop died suddenly last week. My brother hooked me up with a new HP and I picked it up today. I LOVE my new laptop!!! It is an HP EliteBook 6930! Getting everything set up tonight.

Also, when I went to pick up the laptop I got to meet their new dog, Hank. He is a lover, but he is huge and decided that he and their boxer, Oscar, were going to fight for lap space on me.

Belated Merry Christmas!

2009-12-26T21:45:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas! I know we did. We spent Christmas Eve with my family and then stopped by my parents on Christmas morning on the way to D's parents. We spent the night because the wind was so bad we were afraid of what might fly at the car on the drive home.

We had a fabulous time with both families but now I'm glad to be home and relaxing with my family (D and Soxy)

Had a Great Weekend in Chicago!!

2009-11-16T20:12:00.003-05:00

I got to meet Chris this weekend! She is as awesome in person, if not moreso, than she is on her site!! If you are not reading Chris, you should be!

Oink Oink!

2009-11-13T20:56:00.002-05:00

Today I was vaccinated for H1N1. I am glad I was able to be vaccinated, but not thrilled that I qualified as a high-risk faculty member.

Almost Caught Up

2009-11-04T19:04:00.002-05:00

I had no idea how hard it would be to catch up with grading and with my lectures from when I was out sick. It's crazy how far behind I am when someone was covering my classes for me. I will eventually catch up and my students will be back on track. Unfortunately, they have admitted that they didn't study for the midterm and their grades reflected it! I just don't know how to get them to take these classes seriously!!!

Home!

2009-10-21T20:15:00.002-04:00

I am finally home...have been for a couple of hours. Soxy was happy to see me! My Mother has decided / volunteered to stay until Friday while I recoup. She's the best!!

Going Home Tomorrow

2009-10-20T23:15:00.001-04:00

The procedure worked and I will be going home tomorrow at some point!!

Update...

2009-10-19T21:32:00.002-04:00

Just thought I should update here...

I am sitting in a hospital bed waiting for a heart procedure tomorrow. I have been having trouble breathing and it turns out it wasn't my asthma as I originally thought.

I am hoping to be home in a day or two, but we shall see.

If anyone is still reading, I hope you are doing well!

Happy Birthday Soxy!

2009-10-09T22:24:00.002-04:00

Four years ago today we went to the Animal Rescue League and brought home the sweetest and most beautiful dog ever...Soxy! Tonight we took her to pick out some toys and treats to celebrate. D took her for a walk earlier today while I was at school. And we brought her back some of our fish from dinner for her to enjoy. Overall I think she had a good day!

I PASSED!!!

2009-10-02T22:14:00.001-04:00

I am officially ABD (All But Dissertation)!!!! I have passed my comprehensive exams and move on to the next part of the process.

Still Waiting...

2009-09-22T10:33:00.003-04:00

and I'm slowly losing my patience (not that I had much to begin with).

Also, the stress has affected my immune system and I have had the stomach flu since last Wednesday...it is slowly getting better but some foods still don't want to play nicely!!

Not a diet plan I would recommend, but I've lost 6 pounds since Wednesday.

I Hate Waiting!

2009-09-13T20:07:00.000-04:00

My test is over, now I am just waiting for results. They couldn't give us an ETA on when we should have them. I have no patience and hate waiting!!

For me, this is the worst part.

How is everyone doing?

The FINAL Countdown

2009-09-07T21:03:00.002-04:00

I am in the final stretch of preparation for my last comprehensive question. Any smart and positive thoughts you can spare on Friday morning from 9-12 EST would be greatly appreciated.

I should be a much more regular poster once this is over.

Happy Labor Day!