May Wrap-Up

Ah, yes, the time has come again for me to review what I have accomplished this month.  I must say that May has breezed by, quite possibly because we have been very busy with Birthdays, concerts, field trips, and learning together each day.

Okay...now for those silly goals I set on January 1st:

Goal #1: Read all seven Harry Potter books on my new Nexus 7 tablet.
This goal is not any farther along, as I decided I do not like the Harry Potter books.  I tried, I gave it a really good effort...but the books did not appeal to me.  I would say I must be an oddball, because it seems everyone loves those books.  However, just like most everything else in my life - I'm unique.  So this goal is closed.  I am okay with this goal never being complete.

However, I did read a great book called "The Wilder Life" by Wendy McClure.  It is a story about her quest to find where Laura Ingalls Wilder grew up and the "Laura World" from her childhood.  I love Little House, so this was a perfect book for me.  My Ladybugs also enjoy the Little House series, so much so we are going to do a Unit Study with the book The Prairie Primer.  

Goal #2: Reclaim my body - mentally, physically, and emotionally.
If you are interested in reading about my physical stuff of late, you can scroll through the last few blog posts.  I have started Pelvic Floor Therapy, and in one word it is: different.  It isn't bad, but honestly I really don't want to have surgery, so I'm hoping it works.  Mentally and emotionally I am doing well.  I feel very confident that our decision to remove the girls from their school was the right choice - emotionally as well as academically.  Even though we are waiting to hear on the boarder exemption, I am completely comfortable with my abilities to school the Ladybugs for as long as needed.  This is not a place I thought I would be, but here I am!

Goal #3: Give more.
I gave $100 to Friends for the Dearborn Animal Shelter this month.  I had a friend who walked with her two dogs in the annual FDAS Mutt Strutt.  Being able to give to this charity allows animals to be treated and cared for properly.  As for giving back...the girls and I have been collecting clothing and other household items to donate.  We have been so busy with commitments this month, we have not had the time to give time to others.  I am hoping that the summer months prove to be more flexible with time and our ability to give it freely.

So What About the Ladybugs?

As we round out our eighth week of homeschooling, I am happy to report the blessings are immeasurable.

Many ladybug blessings...

I must admit that it took awhile to get things where they worked for us, but I have learned to leave my "schedule" behind, and ROLL with it.  Our basic day is as follows:

Morning Work:

Handwriting

Math

Grammar & Phonics

Read Aloud/Language Arts

Afternoon Work:

Silent Reading/Finish Morning Work

Social Studies

Science

Originally I had a different schedule, but I changed things a couple times to make it work for us.  One of the biggest changes is the time schedule for things.  Now I just have us complete morning work before lunch and do afternoon work after lunch.

As you can see I am not currently doing Spelling words.  I find that spelling is involved in book reports, questions for language arts, social studies reports, and science reports.  So spending time copying words and taking a weekly test just doesn't seem prudent for us at this time.  

I have also been asked if Eviebug does what Zoebug does.  The answer is, yes!  She prints, while Zoebug works on cursive writing, she has her own Math while Zoebug does Math, they both have Grammar/Phonics workbooks, and they both work on Science and Social Studies as well.  The one area I separate them is Language Arts.  Eviebug listens while Zoebug reads her story of the day.  Then Zoebug writes answers to the daily story while Eviebug reads aloud to me.  

I have also noticed that taking many breaks throughout the day helps the Labybugs stay focused on their work.  These breaks do not include watching TV or playing a video game.  Rather they are playing with Maggie outside.  

We also play many educational games.  Our current favorite is Quirkle.  

I have also enjoyed teachable moments - unscheduled opportunities to teach and be taught.  I look at these as being on the same vein as what some call, "unschooling".  It is a way to have child-directed learning.  However, for our purposes I am only having these interests determine our science and/or social studies work.  

For instance, every spring we have a mom and dad robin who make a nest using our gutters: Robins  We talked about how every year they come back to have babies. And then we watched this great video:

CLICK HERE!

Are You Teaching Them Enough?

I also have been asked what curriculum I use.  I have had the great pleasure of having a retired elementary school teacher as a mom, and I also have collected "stuff" throughout the many years I have been teaching.  Therefore, I use a hodge-podge of curriculum at this point, but if we continue in the fall I will use a more focused curriculum series (maybe).

Here is what I use for each subject:

Morning Work:

Handwriting

• Originally we were continuing Handwriting Without Tears with Zoebug (she was working on this in her classroom), however, after WAY TOO MANY TEARS (I know, right?), I switched to Zander-Bloser Handwriting.  Eviebug prints words from her read aloud books.  I have her print them 3 times each.  

Math

• Originally I had Eviebug in a book I got Zoebug from Target 3 years ago.  However, she finished it last week.  Now both girls are in Evan-Moor Skill Sharpeners.  Zoebug is in a 3rd grade book and Eviebug in a 1st grade book.

Grammar & Phonics

• Zoebug was given Grammar worksheets from school, so we've continued a unit of those per week at her speed (3 or 4 pages per day).  Eviebug was using that Target book, but this week Eviebug started a new book, Word Skills Fun from The Mailbox Books for K-1.  

Read Aloud/Language Arts

• Zoebug has been using a series of books from my mother's years as a teacher.  The series is for 2nd and 3rd grade and is from the D.C. Heath and Company.  Eviebug is currently reading first readers from Margaret Hillert.  We have been enjoying watching Eviebug grow at reading, considering before homeschooling she was reading one and two word stories.  

Afternoon Work:

Silent Reading/Finish Morning Work

• Zoebug reads chapter books for book reports which she does upon completion.  She read a few Magic Treehouse books, then switched to The Bailey School Kids series.  She likes mystery/detective books a lot (her past favorite was Nate the Great).  Evie reads picture books (looks at pictures somewhat) to herself.  

Social Studies

Science

• In both cases the girls have been taught subjects that they find fascinating.  We have learned about Thomas Edison, Robert Frost, crystals, rocks, and robins.  It is so much fun learning as we go.

The Future

I have been asked by many what our plans are for schooling in the fall.  Zoebug was accepted at our school of choice (School L).  Unfortunately, Eviebug was not.  The 1st grade for the fall at School L does not have the space the 3rd grade does.  So now we have applied for a boundary extension for Eviebug.  When will we hear?  August.  Yeah, August.  If Eviebug does NOT get the boundary extension, we have decided to continue homeschooling in the fall.  There is nothing wrong with our neighborhood school (School N), but I feel homeschooling would be the better choice for us.  If Eviebug in fact does get approved for the boundary extension, we will have to cross that bridge at that time.

I have many friends who are looking forward for school to be done this spring - in order to spend more time with their babes.  I also know many who are excited there is no more "homework" during the summer months.  However, we are not going to stop learning this summer.  We will be doing curriculum from the Prairie Primer.  In fact, we are all looking forward to learning more about the time Laura Ingalls lived.  One of my problems with traditional schooling is the mindset that summer is when you no longer learn.  I really feel it is sad to teach our children that reading, writing, math, and other skills are only important between September and June.  I believe it is my job as a mom to cultivate their desire to ask questions, and want to learn more from our world.

Answered Prayers

aka I Didn't Need the Cyscostomy!

Today I visited the urogynocologist to discuss the results of my initial visit, the urodynamics test from last week, the results of the journals performed and to have one final procedure: the cyscostomy.  This time my mother came along, as a rock and to drive me home in case things were as bad as the last time (I had a difficult time focusing on the road because of the lingering pain).

Anyway, I was taken to an examination room.  Then my favorite nurse, Rachel, came in and discussed all my results.  She then described the two options: pelvic floor therapy and urethral sling surgery.  I listened to both options, and decided to choose the pelvic floor therapy for 6 weeks.

What Is Pelvic Floor Therapy Anyway?

I received comprehensive documentation on the procedure, so I will write below what the sheet says:

"For a brief period, a small sensor is placed in the rectal opening and you will be asked to tighten the rectal muscle as if you were holding back gas. The reason for these instructions is all the pelvic floor muscles attach into the rectum. It is easier to contract the larger muscle of the rectum which automatically tightens the rest of the muscles, therefore controlling the bladder leakage, urinary frequency, bowel or gas leakage.

The sensor, like a tampon, is placed in the vagina and electrical stimulation is done. This is not uncomfortable. You will feel a tapping, tugging sensation. This is the same time of therapy used for other muscles in the body to help them get stronger, faster. Electrical stimulation cannot be done if you have a metal IUD or cardiac pacemaker."

So basically I will pay to be probed vaginally and anally each week.  To some I suppose this sounds a bit erotic, to me I am not looking forward to the visits.  Even though the information says the therapy is painless, I will let you know how I fair.

What Happened to the Cyscostomy?
The doctor came in, looked at the results, and decided that the camera (i.e. cyscostomy) would not tell him anything more than the information he already viewed.  He canceled the procedure.  WOOT!  He told me that hopefully the pelvic floor therapy would work well, but that he has a very high success rate with the surgery so that I should be open to that if the therapy doesn't give positive results.

Hopefully the therapy will work, and I will not have to go through surgery to see success.  However, regardless, I will keep my readers informed.

Intake and Outtake

aka What I Did For Mother's Day

Along with the two procedures, I was asked to keep a record of my liquid intake as well as my liquid outtake.

The 24-Hour Journal
The first journal was a detailed 24 hour record of what I consumed (i.e. beverage type and amount), as well as what I produced as I emptied my bladder and any leakage in between.  In order to calculate the amount of liquid I was eliminating when going to the bathroom, I had to urinate in a container that fit between the toilet and the toilet seat.  I tried to make this journal a creative experience, by doodling all over the paper.  The ladybugs got involved too.  On a personal note: it was very cumbersome to do a #2 while catching the residual urine that always comes.

Why did I choose Mother's Day?  Well, truth be told I am so busy that I knew I would be home all day that particular day.  After all, you cannot walk into a store, restaurant, or friend's/family member's home with a voiding container.  I also believe becoming a Mother has changed the way my body works.  Therefore, this whole process is most likely a direct result of two vaginal births.  Anyway, the 24 hour test was completed last Sunday.

This is what I used to do the calculations.

The 3-Day Diary
The next step in the journal process was to chart how often I emptied my bladder (E), had a stress leak (S), or had a leak due to urge (U).  My data were all E's and S's.  This time the amount and type of beverage was not necessary.  I have to admit that it wasn't as cumbersome as the 24-hour test, but there were points where I would tell myself "don't forget to log that".

The biggest piece of information, I believe the 3-day log uncovered, was that when I was teaching (i.e. sitting mostly) I had no "accidents".  Therefore, the stress induced incontinence diagnoses made complete sense.

This journal sat next to the toilet (on the sink) for 3 days.  During that time, the ladybugs drew pictures and wrote nice little words like "mommy" and "love".  They knew it was a journal, and in their mind that is what one would do in a journal.  It was awfully sweet.

The Next Step
Tomorrow (Monday) I get the Cyscostomy test performed.  This is the one with the camera.  I am quite nervous, but know there is a light at the end of this.

What Doesn't Kill You Makes You...

exhausted.

*Dear Reader, please note that this isn't a blog without medical terms and adult topics.  If you are at all squeamish  skip today's blog post*

Yesterday I went for the first of two urological tests to which I am scheduled.  This one was the one called Urogynamics.

two catheters in urethra; one in vagina

I was told that this procedure would be a bit more uncomfortable than the Cystoscopy scheduled for next Monday.  Regardless, I have always been very sensitive when it came to my anything related to my bladder/urethra/etc.  Therefore, I was quite nervous when I entered the doctors office.  Actually I went to the 3rd floor initially, rather than the 2nd floor, so you can see how I was consumed with fear.  

I signed in and the receptionist assured me that I was worried about nothing.  "The test will be over and done before you know it.  Don't worry, it doesn't hurt."  This of course did not make me feel better, but I must say the staff at this office is absolutely stellar.  I can also state that this receptionist had never had the procedure before.

The Procedure

I was escorted back the the same room I peed in the funnel during my appointment last week.  If you are curious what this funnel chair contraption looked like, here is a similar drawing:

First I was told to give a urine sample.  Peeing in a small cup might be daunting for some, however, I am a pro at it.  I returned to the room and was told to remove all clothing from the waist down, put on a comfy pair of socks, get seated in the chair, and pull a paper blanket over my lower half.  I was still very nervous, but I kept telling myself it wasn't going to be that bad.  I oftentimes over-think situations, and tend to imagine the worse scenario.

Two women technicians entered the room: one worked the computer to which my results would be calculated, and the other was the one who would do the actual insertion and manipulation of the catheters.  Yes, I said manipulation.  I knew there would be an overall discomfort and burning sensation, but I actually went into a panic attack that started with sweating and feeling like I was going to throw up.  The pain was completely unimaginable, and I felt like someone was taking a knife and inserting into my urethra.  My panic attack progressed rapidly, and I thought I would pass out.  The "insertion" nurse got the doctor (Mr. Handsome) and he came in and talked to me.  Apparently the first part of the test requires a lot of manipulation of the catheter.  I was told that am in the very small percentage that feels pain with this part.  But pain is putting it lightly.  I have had a lot of stuff happen in my nether regions during my lifetime, but nothing NOTHING compares to the excruciating pain I experienced during this procedure.

My doctor is such a kind man.  He encouraged me to continue, even though I wanted to rip the catheters out and run away fast (yes, even half naked).  He let me squeeze his hand to redirect the pain.  Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the manipulation part was complete.  Then came time for me to perform, oh yes, I had to cough and bare down in a variety of positions.  Then the two technicians filled my bladder up with fluid and when I felt like I had to pee, I was asked to perform all the same actions as before.  This time I did leak when baring down and coughing.  Which I knew would happen.  Then they filled my bladder with an obnoxious amount of water.  If you are at all aware of what a CC is (a cubic centimeter), I held 200 with the first bladder expansion and 500 with the second bladder expansion.  

After the second expansion, the ladies left the room.  I was able to pee in the funnel thing again, with the hope that I would be able to empty the vast amounts of fluid they had put inside my bladder.  I must say it felt so good to know the test was almost over.  I've never been so happy to pee in my entire life.  

The catheters came out and even though I thought I would be rid of the pain, I was not.  I got dressed, and tried to get comfortable while sitting.  One of the technicians came back in the room with a bottle holding 4 pills of Pyridium.  For those of you who have never had a bladder infection or UTI, Pyridium is this lovely pill that turns pee dark orange and numbs the general area.  She told me to take two then, and save the other 2 for later.  I wish they had given me 10 of these wonders, but that was all they were allowed to pass along.

In Conclusion

I really don't want to scare women away from getting this test.  After all, I was finally able to endure the unimaginable pain.  However, what I wanted to write is MY account of the procedure.  Because the information given by my doctor, and the information online, all told me it would be an easy cheesy experience.  For instance, here are some FAQs of Urodynamics testing given on the Gynecologic Specialists of Northwestern's website:

FAQ

How long does the procedure take?
The actual test takes anywhere from 15-30 minutes. Some women reach full bladder capacity with a small amount of water and leak early on. Others require a much larger volume (and a longer time to fill) than others. Filling out the questionnaire, getting ready for the test, doing the test and discussing the test often take up to two hours of office time, so please plan accordingly.

Can I have a guest in the room?
You may bring someone with you if you desire. They can be in the room during the testing, or, if you prefer, join you just for the discussion of results.

Is this test painful?
This test is not painful other than the discomfort of having a full bladder.

I once had a catheter inserted and it was very uncomfortable. Is this catheter the same?
The catheter we use for testing is significantly smaller than a Foley catheter, and in addition, no balloon is inflated to hold it in place. It is rare for someone to even be aware of its presence.

I feel uncomfortable losing urine in front of people. Who will be in the room?
The only people in the room will be your physician or physician assistant and a medical assistant to operate the equipment. The room is designed for you to lose urine (there is no carpeting!) and while it may seem strange to you, it is the best way to determine what your problem is so we can fix it. While some women consciously (or subconsciously) hold back from losing urine, please do your best to act as if we are not there.

As you can see from my experience, I was obviously not in the norm of patients.  I want my story to be out there, because even if I am in the minority here others could possibly identify with my experience.

I will continue to share my experiences in this blog, because if nothing else they help me deal with the emotional and difficult task at hand.

Cloudy With a Chance of Incontinence

I'm sure most people my age remember the commercial with the women who have to "GO RIGHT NOW!"

 

I seriously think that traffic cop is Susan from Sesame Street

So when I began having leakage, I didn't think it was the same incontinence thing as these women were experiencing.  They were older and they couldn't stop going.  Incontinence is an old people problem.  That's why there are adult diapers and the like.  Right?

Apparently not.

Hello.  My name is Michelle and I suffer from incontinence.

First Visit to the Urologist 
So I had my first visit with my new Urogynecology doctor yesterday.  I thought I would be seeing the main doctor, who is an older Indian gentleman.  But after having my vitals taken, discussing my history of bladder and vaginal health, and peeing in this funnel thing that was hooked to a computer for analysis, this tall VERY good looking African American doctor entered the room.  His smile was contagious, and he was just as nice as someone could be.  He was checking things out as he asked my profession.  I told him I taught piano and voice, and he pulled his hand out and said, "NO WAY!  I HAVE BEEN WANTING TO TAKE PIANO LESSONS!  DO YOU THINK I'M TOO OLD?"  At this point, I wanted to crawl in a hole and pretend I was somewhere else.

After some small talk, the exam continued.  I was told to cough while laying down, then while sitting (mind you my legs were spread eagle this entire time).  Nothing was leaking.  Then, I was told to stand (still with my legs wide stride) and cough.  Success!  The doctor clapped and said, "Good job!"  And I stood there looking at him quite perplexed.  I had peed on the floor, and the doctor couldn't have been prouder if I won a medal of honor.  He shook my hand, told me we would talk more about piano lessons, and left the room.  The nurse gave me paperwork, a diary to keep a pee log, a container to collect my pee, and info on two procedures I will need to have.  It was so much information, I pretty much blanked out.  But I did catch on that having incontinence affects 1 in 4 women, and can occur in her 30s.

I am not thrilled with getting invasive procedures, and truthfully I prolonged this doctor visit because of them. However, if 2013 is going to be a year I get healthier, I must take care of this obvious problem.

I don't want to go in graphic detail, but the procedures are: Urogynamics and Cystoscopy.  

April Wrap-Up

April came and went, and just like that I am back to see how I fared this month.

Goal #1: Read all seven Harry Potter books on my new Nexus 7 tablet.
I suppose that by now I should have completed the entire series of Potter books.  But for whatever reason, I cannot get into that series.  It's only May, so I have time.  But I did read a hilarious memoir called, "Bossypants," by Tina Fey.  It was really fun.  Not as laugh-out-loud crazy as a few other memoirs I've read lately, but it was just what I needed.  I also completed the book, "Killing Lincoln," by Bill O'Reilly.  Fantastic account of the last days of President Lincoln.  Just loved it.  Would totally recommend reading it (especially if you like the Civil War time period or history).

Goal #2: Reclaim my body - mentally, physically, and emotionally.
My weight seems to continue to look me in the face and laugh.  However, emotionally I am feeling fantastic, and mentally I have been really enjoying teaching the Ladybugs.  So two out of three is pretty damn good, if I do say so myself.  I am going to a new doctor on Monday, as I have been leaking (gradually peeing myself) for about 6 months now.  I haven't really shared this info with anyone else, but I thought it was time to share that physical hurdle I must climb.

Goal #3: Give more.
This month I spent time with students accompanying them in a performance.  I had recorded a CD, but I felt being there was much better than simply letting them fend for themselves.  It was remarkable.  I also spent countless hours opening my home to our neighbor boys.  I just love them...and I know my open-door policy allows their parents to get a bit of relaxation.  We gave $100 this month to Autism Speaks, as April is Autism Awareness month.  I know many children who have been diagnosed with Autism or ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders).  My Zoe has anxiety and some sensory issues, but I have always had a place in my heart for children who were "different".  In fact, I tend to gravitate towards teaching special kids.  I love the variety and I understand them better than I imagine many other private piano/voice teachers.

Hope everyone had a wonderful April.