It's no secret I make my own undies. There's no way I'm forking out the dough to buy manufactured latex-free underwear that I could react to anyways.
Quite some time ago I bought Kwik Sew K3301 as an easy pattern to make my own underwear. Specifically, I use my hubby's old t-shirts as the material. I cut out two pieces of material, approximately 1/2" outside the pattern, sew it up, and I'm done. Sometimes I'll finish up the edges, but if I'm in hurry, they can wait.
I skip the elastic. While I do have some latex-free elastic from Sew Sassy, the stuff isn't cheap. For this particular pattern, I end up with undies that are similar to boy shorts. The pattern covers pretty much all sizes, so I'm not worried if I gain or lose weight.
Someday I'll make pretty latex-free underwear.... some day....
Also, there's a decent comfy bra pattern included. I haven't tried it yet, but I will at some point, whenever I have enough of my comfy upcycled latex- free bras finished.
Currently Amazon has this pattern for $12.31 with free shipping (Prime not necessary!). I downloaded the pattern online, printed it out, cut it up, and pieced it together. It was rather annoying, and I wouldn't recommend the process.
Oct 12, 2013
Oct 11, 2013
A Day with Latex Allergy
In honor of Latex Allergy Awareness Week, I am pulling my hands and my brain together to share with you the dangers of living just one day with a severe latex allergy. I apologize in advance for any typos or any sections that do not make sense. I've got issues. (This is pretending that fibromyalgia and all my other medical issues are magically gone!)
6:00(ish): My husband's alarm goes off for work. Good thing we have an alarm without latex buttons on it. Oops, that was his phone alarm. I almost touched his phone! He has an Otterbox, and that's rubber. Whew! Disaster averted.
6:15: Take morning medication. Since I can no longer take a lot of medications due to the additives, fillers, and handling with latex gloves, it's only a few. There are no longer any medications I can take to keep me awake, so thank goodness the narcolepsy is magically gone for today!
6:30: Check e-mail and such on laptop. Thankfully my hands are functioning today! In order to avoid tingling hands and reactions due to the latex underneath the keys, I wear gloves and my mask.
7: Start coughing from reacting to the husband's body wash and shampoo. I'm allergic to him after he showers for at least 2 hours. Use asthma inhaler and take Benadryl.
7:15: Try to figure out what I can eat. Due to all of my food allergies it's a challenge to find foods that are both delicious and nutritious. Many mornings I skip breakfast now since I don't have the energy to cook. This morning, though, the only problem is the latex allergy, so I cook! Fortunately I went through and got rid of lots of our kitchen items a year ago, so I know all of my cookware is latex-free and I don't have to worry about touching something rubber.
7:45: Brush teeth with the one and only toothpaste I can use (I've become allergic to everything else) and a latex-free toothbrush. Toothbrush grips can be rubber.
8: Think about working. Dreamily wish I could work again. Cry.
8:15: Turn on some music to get motivated to move and wash dishes. Since I'm allergic to all dish soap, I use baking soda, lemon water, and extremely hot water. It's a rather long process, but it gets them clean. Even if my husband washed dishes in dish soap, I would still react if I ate off of them.
9:15: Realize that I haven't showered. Oh wait, showers take energy, which I don't have. But today latex is the only issue, so I do take a shower. Every time I wash my hair I think about how I used to love my long hair, which I shaved off because there was NO safe shampoo for me. Now I'm down to one bar soap which is specially made for me. Now that I'm reacting to that, my only options are soap nuts and a baking soda/lemon water/ spices mixture. My hair is a couple inches long now, and I'm having my husband shave it off again this weekend. I just can't stand the itching.
9:30: Itch. Everywhere.
9:45: Realize I'm wearing pajamas. Oh, wait! That's almost all I have left to wear that is safe after purging my closet of latex! All spandex/Lycra/elastic/elastane has been cleared, leaving shorts, pajama pants, a couple dresses, a pair of khakis, jeans, and some t-shirts. It's been over a year and I just never seem to have the energy to sew like I need to. Today, though, I've got energy!
10: Sew undies, bras, socks, shirts, shorts, pants, dresses, hats, and gloves. Have you seen the prices for latex-free clothing? Not with this budget!
12: (Let's pretend I just sewed a new wardrobe in two hours. Awesome!) Try to figure out what to eat for lunch. Again, I've got energy, so I cook after debating for quite some time what sounds good and will give me some fuel, without risking an allergic reaction.
12:15: Take noon meds.
1: Get ready to go to the grocery. This means ensuring my phone is fully charged so I can always call 911, bringing my purse, Benadryl, epi-pens, medical information binder, nitrile gloves, respirator, and any latex-free medical supplies I have been able to afford at the time. Eventually I'll be purchasing more latex-free supplies, but I can only afford the bare essentials right now.
1:15: Go to the grocery store down the road. (I can drive today since I have no arm/elbow/hand issues!) Wear mask and gloves. Skim over produce section since everything has rubber bands around it. Try to focus on my list but get confused and can't think or focus. Realize this is a reaction and high-tail it to the self-checkout, avoiding the rubber conveyor belts. Accidentally pass by the Halloween section. Abandon cart and stumble outside to take two Benadryl. Call husband and/or friend to try to decide if I am cognizant enough to drive home. Let them make the judgement call since reactions often rob me of my decision-making skills.
1:45: After waiting it out, my mind clears, the Benadryl kicks in, and I drive home. Carefully avoid known balloon-zones such as car dealers and the fairground. Just driving by, with the windows up and my mask on even, can leave me gasping for air.
2: Collapse upon arriving home. Reactions take everything out of me.
3: Still collapsed on the couch, but now I have used my phone to turn on the television. We had to get rid of a lot of the remotes since the buttons were rubber and left me dazed and confused.
4: Think about the mail. Since mail is often handled with latex gloves, moved via conveyor belt, and rubber banded, I don't even have a mail key to avoid temptation. I can't open it or even touch it. It has to air out for quite some time, and even then I often react to the ink on printed letters.
4:15: Look at my husband's tools that he accidentally left out. Debate whether putting them away is worth a pair of disposable nitrile gloves. Since most tools have rubber handles, I can't touch them or risk badness.
4:30: Notice shortness of breath, itchy ears, and disorientation. Immediately take Benadryl and alert husband and friend just in case and put on mask. There is construction going on nearby, which kicks latex particles into the air from the ground-up tires used in/on roads. Since we have yet to find a latex-free sealant, there are gaps around the air conditioner allowing the particles in the air entrance.
4:45: Disorientation has slightly diminished and breathing is almost normal. Ears are still very itchy though, so I take two more Benadryl. Sit down and think about how many Benadryl I have taken today. At least 2 days per week I hit the maximum dosage, often 3 or more.
5:30: Husband comes home (let's say it's an early day). As I stay across the room from him, I cry because I really need a hug from him. I know that it's too risky though since he works in landscaping, around grass and exhaust fumes all day. (I haven't been able to go to the gas station in ages.) Even after he showers I'll be allergic to him since my soap isn't very effective for him.
6: After showering, husband suggests going out to eat. Following a year of no dates due to restaurants using latex gloves and the fact that I can't take off my mask indoors hardly anywhere, this means the pizza joint around the corner from us. Since they have tables outside, with rarely anyone taking advantage of the tables (perfume about knocks me out), we can go there and eat! Unfortunately they don't have any food that I'm not allergic to.... but they do have food that doesn't leave me gasping for air after eating. After much debate and consideration, we decide that would be a stupid thing to do.
7: Since I'm completely wiped out from all the reactions today, I eat whatever my husband makes himself for dinner, no doubt something I'm allergic to- but not deathly allergic. I resign myself to at least 3 days of misery and accept the plate he offers since I'm hungry. We are a cinnamon, banana, and black pepper-free home, so I know anything he gives me won't trigger an asthma attack or anaphylaxis.
8: Watch TV from bed. The apartment we have downsized to is so small I can do that. Less than 450 square feet, but at least I can have my plants outside to grow a little food. The downside is that it is on a busy street, which means exhaust fumes generally make me have to wear my mask when I go outside to take care of my plants. Many times I have to come inside and wait for low-traffic times to go outside, even while wearing my mask.
8:30: Take meds.
9:30/10: Fall asleep on my non-latex mattress, without a fitted sheet on it. (The elastic has latex in it.)
11:30: Wake up from a nightmare. Oh wait, I have a severe latex allergy. I am living my nightmare.
Think it can't happen to you? You're wrong. The only way to avoid latex allergy is to AVOID LATEX. It's much more than just condoms, gloves, and balloons. Check out my list of items that contain latex, and avoid them as much possible. You don't want to be like me, do you?
Please, if you are in a position of influence, choose latex-free options. Someone's life may be on the line.
6:00(ish): My husband's alarm goes off for work. Good thing we have an alarm without latex buttons on it. Oops, that was his phone alarm. I almost touched his phone! He has an Otterbox, and that's rubber. Whew! Disaster averted.
6:15: Take morning medication. Since I can no longer take a lot of medications due to the additives, fillers, and handling with latex gloves, it's only a few. There are no longer any medications I can take to keep me awake, so thank goodness the narcolepsy is magically gone for today!
6:30: Check e-mail and such on laptop. Thankfully my hands are functioning today! In order to avoid tingling hands and reactions due to the latex underneath the keys, I wear gloves and my mask.
7: Start coughing from reacting to the husband's body wash and shampoo. I'm allergic to him after he showers for at least 2 hours. Use asthma inhaler and take Benadryl.
7:15: Try to figure out what I can eat. Due to all of my food allergies it's a challenge to find foods that are both delicious and nutritious. Many mornings I skip breakfast now since I don't have the energy to cook. This morning, though, the only problem is the latex allergy, so I cook! Fortunately I went through and got rid of lots of our kitchen items a year ago, so I know all of my cookware is latex-free and I don't have to worry about touching something rubber.
7:45: Brush teeth with the one and only toothpaste I can use (I've become allergic to everything else) and a latex-free toothbrush. Toothbrush grips can be rubber.
8:15: Turn on some music to get motivated to move and wash dishes. Since I'm allergic to all dish soap, I use baking soda, lemon water, and extremely hot water. It's a rather long process, but it gets them clean. Even if my husband washed dishes in dish soap, I would still react if I ate off of them.
9:15: Realize that I haven't showered. Oh wait, showers take energy, which I don't have. But today latex is the only issue, so I do take a shower. Every time I wash my hair I think about how I used to love my long hair, which I shaved off because there was NO safe shampoo for me. Now I'm down to one bar soap which is specially made for me. Now that I'm reacting to that, my only options are soap nuts and a baking soda/lemon water/ spices mixture. My hair is a couple inches long now, and I'm having my husband shave it off again this weekend. I just can't stand the itching.
9:30: Itch. Everywhere.
9:45: Realize I'm wearing pajamas. Oh, wait! That's almost all I have left to wear that is safe after purging my closet of latex! All spandex/Lycra/elastic/elastane has been cleared, leaving shorts, pajama pants, a couple dresses, a pair of khakis, jeans, and some t-shirts. It's been over a year and I just never seem to have the energy to sew like I need to. Today, though, I've got energy!
10: Sew undies, bras, socks, shirts, shorts, pants, dresses, hats, and gloves. Have you seen the prices for latex-free clothing? Not with this budget!
12: (Let's pretend I just sewed a new wardrobe in two hours. Awesome!) Try to figure out what to eat for lunch. Again, I've got energy, so I cook after debating for quite some time what sounds good and will give me some fuel, without risking an allergic reaction.
12:15: Take noon meds.
1: Get ready to go to the grocery. This means ensuring my phone is fully charged so I can always call 911, bringing my purse, Benadryl, epi-pens, medical information binder, nitrile gloves, respirator, and any latex-free medical supplies I have been able to afford at the time. Eventually I'll be purchasing more latex-free supplies, but I can only afford the bare essentials right now.
1:15: Go to the grocery store down the road. (I can drive today since I have no arm/elbow/hand issues!) Wear mask and gloves. Skim over produce section since everything has rubber bands around it. Try to focus on my list but get confused and can't think or focus. Realize this is a reaction and high-tail it to the self-checkout, avoiding the rubber conveyor belts. Accidentally pass by the Halloween section. Abandon cart and stumble outside to take two Benadryl. Call husband and/or friend to try to decide if I am cognizant enough to drive home. Let them make the judgement call since reactions often rob me of my decision-making skills.
1:45: After waiting it out, my mind clears, the Benadryl kicks in, and I drive home. Carefully avoid known balloon-zones such as car dealers and the fairground. Just driving by, with the windows up and my mask on even, can leave me gasping for air.
2: Collapse upon arriving home. Reactions take everything out of me.
3: Still collapsed on the couch, but now I have used my phone to turn on the television. We had to get rid of a lot of the remotes since the buttons were rubber and left me dazed and confused.
4: Think about the mail. Since mail is often handled with latex gloves, moved via conveyor belt, and rubber banded, I don't even have a mail key to avoid temptation. I can't open it or even touch it. It has to air out for quite some time, and even then I often react to the ink on printed letters.
4:15: Look at my husband's tools that he accidentally left out. Debate whether putting them away is worth a pair of disposable nitrile gloves. Since most tools have rubber handles, I can't touch them or risk badness.
4:30: Notice shortness of breath, itchy ears, and disorientation. Immediately take Benadryl and alert husband and friend just in case and put on mask. There is construction going on nearby, which kicks latex particles into the air from the ground-up tires used in/on roads. Since we have yet to find a latex-free sealant, there are gaps around the air conditioner allowing the particles in the air entrance.
4:45: Disorientation has slightly diminished and breathing is almost normal. Ears are still very itchy though, so I take two more Benadryl. Sit down and think about how many Benadryl I have taken today. At least 2 days per week I hit the maximum dosage, often 3 or more.
5:30: Husband comes home (let's say it's an early day). As I stay across the room from him, I cry because I really need a hug from him. I know that it's too risky though since he works in landscaping, around grass and exhaust fumes all day. (I haven't been able to go to the gas station in ages.) Even after he showers I'll be allergic to him since my soap isn't very effective for him.
6: After showering, husband suggests going out to eat. Following a year of no dates due to restaurants using latex gloves and the fact that I can't take off my mask indoors hardly anywhere, this means the pizza joint around the corner from us. Since they have tables outside, with rarely anyone taking advantage of the tables (perfume about knocks me out), we can go there and eat! Unfortunately they don't have any food that I'm not allergic to.... but they do have food that doesn't leave me gasping for air after eating. After much debate and consideration, we decide that would be a stupid thing to do.
7: Since I'm completely wiped out from all the reactions today, I eat whatever my husband makes himself for dinner, no doubt something I'm allergic to- but not deathly allergic. I resign myself to at least 3 days of misery and accept the plate he offers since I'm hungry. We are a cinnamon, banana, and black pepper-free home, so I know anything he gives me won't trigger an asthma attack or anaphylaxis.
8: Watch TV from bed. The apartment we have downsized to is so small I can do that. Less than 450 square feet, but at least I can have my plants outside to grow a little food. The downside is that it is on a busy street, which means exhaust fumes generally make me have to wear my mask when I go outside to take care of my plants. Many times I have to come inside and wait for low-traffic times to go outside, even while wearing my mask.
8:30: Take meds.
9:30/10: Fall asleep on my non-latex mattress, without a fitted sheet on it. (The elastic has latex in it.)
11:30: Wake up from a nightmare. Oh wait, I have a severe latex allergy. I am living my nightmare.
Think it can't happen to you? You're wrong. The only way to avoid latex allergy is to AVOID LATEX. It's much more than just condoms, gloves, and balloons. Check out my list of items that contain latex, and avoid them as much possible. You don't want to be like me, do you?
Please, if you are in a position of influence, choose latex-free options. Someone's life may be on the line.
Oct 6, 2013
Cheapest Price Ever on Crayola Air Dry Clay!
I'm a big fan of Crayola since their products are generally latex-free, so they're safe for me to be around. Back in the days when I was able to work, I loved dreaming up new fun uses for their air dry clay. Granted, I tried just about every recipe known to man for homemade clay, but nothing beat Crayola's!
Amazon currently has their 5 Pound Bucket of Crayola Air Dry Clay on sale for the lowest price ever, just $7.06! Shipping with Prime is free, so try this fun clay out. Latex-free clay and arts and crafts supplies aren't easy to find, but I for one am happy Crayola's got my back.
As always, be sure to confirm the price before checking out. Amazon's prices change constantly!
Amazon currently has their 5 Pound Bucket of Crayola Air Dry Clay on sale for the lowest price ever, just $7.06! Shipping with Prime is free, so try this fun clay out. Latex-free clay and arts and crafts supplies aren't easy to find, but I for one am happy Crayola's got my back.
As always, be sure to confirm the price before checking out. Amazon's prices change constantly!
Great Deal on Silicone Loom Bands or Hair Bands
Latex-free hair bands are insanely hard to find! Not that I have any hair to pull back anymore, but just in case you do, Amazon has their colored silicone loom bands for just $3.70 right now. That's 600 bands plus 25 "S" hooks for less than $4! Plus, shipping is FREE!
If you are like me and have minimal hair, these are still handy to have around in place of expensive latex-free rubber bands, or use them for their original purpose, with a loom!
Remember, Amazon's prices are constantly changing, so don't sit on this deal and be sure to check pricing before checkout!
Sep 12, 2013
Amish Origins Pain Relief Cream- It WORKS!
This is the ONLY pain relief cream that I use. Nothing else works- everything else may as well be made entirely of water!
Check it out on Amazon. Right now Amish Origins Pain Relief Cream is $10.19 with free Prime shipping for 3.5 ounces. Remember, prices change faster than my body temperature, so be sure and check prices before checking out!
Sep 10, 2013
Weleda Salt Toothpaste: Way Better than Baking Soda!
Yay! Toothpaste I can USE!
You can find Weleda Salt Toothpaste on Amazon. The tubes are only 2.50 ounces, but you don't need nearly as much as you do with "regular" toothpastes.
Sep 9, 2013
Aug 28, 2013
Free Kindle Books!
Lots of free Kindle books on Amazon today! Don't own an e-reader? I don't either! Amazon has you covered with Free Kindle Reading Apps for your computer, smartphone, or just about any other gadget you may have.
Without further ado... FREE BOOKS!
Recipes/Food-Related
25 Recipes for Homemade Ice Cream: Delicious Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt Made at Home
50 Delicious and Nutritious Snacks - Guilt Free Snacks to Help You Lose Weight and Make it Through Your Day (Vegetarian Cookbook and Vegetarian Recipes Collection)
Superfoods for the Heart and the Cholesterol Controversy - Teaches How To Help Avoid Heart Disease With Superfoods (Superfoods Series)
Organic Food: Eating Organic on a Budget
Paleo Diet Plan & Paleo Foods For Busy People - The 30 Day Paleo Diet Challenge
Cast Iron Cooking Recipes
Natural Remedies
50 Shades of Herbs: The Best Natural Remedies for Better Sex, Better Sleep, and More Energy (The Sexy Herb Guide)
While there are many more wonderful free books, my hands are starting to yell at me. So, until next time, enjoy the free e-books!
Without further ado... FREE BOOKS!
Recipes/Food-Related
25 Recipes for Homemade Ice Cream: Delicious Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt Made at Home
50 Delicious and Nutritious Snacks - Guilt Free Snacks to Help You Lose Weight and Make it Through Your Day (Vegetarian Cookbook and Vegetarian Recipes Collection)
Superfoods for the Heart and the Cholesterol Controversy - Teaches How To Help Avoid Heart Disease With Superfoods (Superfoods Series)
Organic Food: Eating Organic on a Budget
Paleo Diet Plan & Paleo Foods For Busy People - The 30 Day Paleo Diet Challenge
Cast Iron Cooking Recipes
Natural Remedies
50 Shades of Herbs: The Best Natural Remedies for Better Sex, Better Sleep, and More Energy (The Sexy Herb Guide)
While there are many more wonderful free books, my hands are starting to yell at me. So, until next time, enjoy the free e-books!
Olay Fresh Effects- Make-Up Even I Can Wear!
Check out Olay Fresh Effects Bb Cream on Amazon or at www.olayfresheffects.com.
I received this product free from Influenster in my Sun-Kissed Summer Vox Box, and couldn't be more thrilled that I can actually use it!
Aug 26, 2013
My Oil Pulling Adventure- It's a Start!
Check out Amazon's price on a 6 pack of Spectrum Naturals Organic Unrefined Sesame Oil- it might be cheaper than at your supermarket!
Aug 24, 2013
Blogging with Fibromyalgia (and Other Illnesses)
Look back in my blog posts and one thing will be clear: there is no consistency.
Anyone with a blog will tell you, this is the number one rule of having a successful blog: keep the posts coming to get traffic and get people coming back to your blog!
Here's the thing.
I'm sick.
Have you noticed the name of the blog? It's FIBROconfessions. Not Mommyconfessions or Healthyconfessions (sorry if there are blogs out there by those names), but FIBROconfessions.
That means I'm sick.
Which means that a lot of the time, I not only don't have the energy to write a post, but it is excruciating to do so.
The ideas are there, swimming around and jumping off diving boards into lovely ponds of sleepiness. But the body is simply too limiting.
With that in mind, I'm considering doing video posts instead. You'll be able to see me in all my latex-free, alternative soap-using glory. I'll still type when I can, but who knows how often that will be.
Less painful for me, and perhaps less eye strain for you, yes? It's a plan. Which is just a suggestion for anyone with chronic illness, right? :)
Aug 17, 2013
$5 off $25 at Amazon!
Wowza! Got something on your wishlist at Amazon? Click here and get $5 off $25 at Amazon!
Once you click through to Amazon, enter in what one item is at the top of your Back to School shopping list, hit Share and Claim through Facebook, and you're done!
Be sure to buy over $25 worth at Amazon by midnight on Thursday, August 22nd, though- it expires soon!
Hurry before this offer expires!
Look! A PVC free, lead free, and phthalate free backpack! |
Once you click through to Amazon, enter in what one item is at the top of your Back to School shopping list, hit Share and Claim through Facebook, and you're done!
Be sure to buy over $25 worth at Amazon by midnight on Thursday, August 22nd, though- it expires soon!
Hurry before this offer expires!
Aug 16, 2013
We've Moved... Again!
Nice storage unit, huh? I mean... home. |
Since our home was invaded by toxic smoke, part of the reason for an ER visit, we had to move.
The landlord simply could not wrap his head around the fact that smoke really can get into a building from another unit or from the outside, and that it was indeed potentially deadly to me.
Fortunately, he was OK with us moving and we didn't have to fight breaking the lease. He promptly moved in an extended family of chain smokers into all three units that were now empty. Well... to each their own. Good riddance, I say!
Gorgeous pocket door... that must stay shut. *sigh* |
Another caveat is that the sliding pocket door that divides the living room and bedroom has most definitely not been painted or sealed, nor has the one tiny closet. They're both off-gassing old toxic cigarette sludge, so we are saving up for some seriously awesome AFM Safecoat Hard Seal. (If you have any other suggestions as to what might work, please let me know! It's hard finding something to seal in the smoke that won't kill me.)
So, here's to trying again! Hopefully this time I won't be smoked out before I get a chance to make the place a home!
In the spirit of confessions of a fibromyalgia fun-lover, I've decided to share pictures of my incredible unpacking and downsizing adventure. Who needs perfection when you have chaos?
So, here's to trying again! Hopefully this time I won't be smoked out before I get a chance to make the place a home!
In the spirit of confessions of a fibromyalgia fun-lover, I've decided to share pictures of my incredible unpacking and downsizing adventure. Who needs perfection when you have chaos?
Buddy the cat is still confused. |
It's better now. I think. |
Jul 31, 2013
Finally, a Solution to My Laundry Problem!
Problem solved.
This is my cat, Buddy. One smart dude.
Things have been crazy as usual as we are yet again moving due to the smoke issue, in just a few days! Ah, the joys of chronic illness and dealing with idiots that don't have a clue.
Jul 24, 2013
Jul 20, 2013
My First Epi Pen Use: A Love Story (and Sappy Poem)
Oh epi pen, epi pen.
Where would I be without you?
Oh epi pen, epi pen.
I really didn't have a clue.
Oh epi pen, epi pen.
Thank you ever so much.
Oh epi pen, epi pen.
For saving my life and such.
Oh, epi pen. Boy was I scared of using that thing. There are undoubtedly plenty of times I should have used it, but I didn't. I was terrified that I would use it incorrectly and the sky would fall. I'm also not one to enjoy being the center of attention and have always had this deep-seated fear that I would use it when I shouldn't have and affirm the beliefs of the nay-sayers that my allergy was in my head.
So I didn't use it. Until a recent Saturday.
It didn't begin as a normal day, as I have no normal day. But, it didn't seem like an epi pen sort of day. I did wake up a bit light headed, with my chest feeling rather heavy, but that's not been uncommon with the toxic smoke coming into my home as of late. There was undoubtedly some asthmatic coughing with a heavy dash of hand and wrist pain, as well as a couple of Benadryl taken.
As is normal for me, I don't remember a lot of what I did Saturday morning. There is a vague inkling of doing some laundry, and I probably argued unreasonably with my hubby thanks to my stupid hormones and the stress of our situation. (We're not going anywhere as a couple, it's all the other crud around us that's the problem.)
I picked up a pair of scissors out of a tote that I hadn't unpacked. Big mistake. Within a few minutes my hands started getting a smidge tingly, so I looked at the scissors. They were orange plastic. With the inside white strips made of rubber.
Immediately running to the bathroom, I scrubbed my hands with my goat's milk soap, dried off my hands, and took a couple Benadryl tablets. Returning to the living room, I walked into a wall. I didn't really think much of it. That's me some days.
Starting to sit down in the chair, the room spun. I froze. My half-asleep husband asked what was wrong, I explained, and he was assured that I had indeed taken Benadryl. I sat down and the room was still doing the funky chicken dance. Telling myself to knock it off, I resumed folding laundry while my temperature regulation went on hyperdrive, from hot to cold and back again within the same moment.
Nausea hit and I took an anti-nausea pill. I glanced at my ever-ready epi pen and jutted out my jaw. I do that when I'm being stubborn. My poor epi pen was the brunt of a very mean glare.
Suddenly, I had to pee. (Didn't expect that, did you?) I stumbled down the short hallway to the bathroom, realizing I was now having trouble breathing, and glanced in the mirror. I hardly ever look in the mirror these days, so that was an odd moment to do so.
My lips were turning blue.
Nah, I must be hallucinating. Certainly wouldn't be the first time.
Oh. Yep, that's definitely not pink. Not red, or even a pale pink. I don't really see any trace of pink there. Oh. That's bad.
I almost fell over multiple times on my way back to the chair. This is a really short distance, but it seemed even longer as the walls kept getting in my stinking way.
Informing my almost asleep husband that I was going to have to epi, I pulled out my trusty not dusty epi pen from the designated spot in my purse, pulled it out of the tube, and froze.
I sobbed. "I don't wanna epi, it's gonna hurt! I have to, it's gonna hurt!" I flipped the top off, and my hubby put his hand on my shoulder, said "It's going to be OK," and ran to put on his shoes and grab his keys.
A bit more sobbing as I read and reread the 3-step picture directions on the side of the epi pen more times that I know. I'd rehearsed so very many times and yet I was still not confident that I would do it right. So I followed the directions.
I swung it, pressed, and counted out 10 seconds. I tossed it in my purse and my hubby and I ran out the door. We left it unlocked. Oops. But we did have my purse and my 'medical' bag with me. Wallet safely at home on the coffee table.
Vertigo hit on the way to the car, and we did an impromptu trust fall. He caught me. Then he wouldn't let me go til I was in the car.
On the way to the ER, he missed two turns. Good thing we moved to within 10 minutes or less of the hospital!
Once we got there, my husband half dragged me in the ER as I was still really dizzy, but my breathing was getting better. He held out the epi-pen and people went running. I do remember noticing that they were scurrying, but calmly. That seemed really odd to me. *shrug*
Since I'm in the system there and it's an awesome new hospital, check-in took about 5 seconds and I was in my own room hooked up to a blood pressure monitor, heart monitor, pulse oximeter, and with an IV before I knew it.
They took a few vials of blood, but my vitals were looking pretty good. It took a bit to see the doctor, but I wasn't critical. Once I did see him, he confirmed that the epi pen did it's job. Yay! I didn't need anything else since I'd already been there a few hours, and I was released back into the land of toxic smoke.
There are multiple morals to this story.
- Second and third hand smoke is not only toxic, it can literally risk other people's life. I freakin' hate smoke. It is believed to be partly to blame for this episode.
- Scissors kill. Or at least induce anaphylactic shock.
- My hubby is awesome. Even if he makes two wrong turns because he's half asleep. Plus, he can catch me when he's just woken up.
- Used epi pens speak for themselves at the ER.
- Most importantly, the epi pen isn't that scary. While I properly and responsibly disposed of my used epi pen, my other one is no longer glared at, but rather looked at in appreciation for the life-saving potential.
Thank you, epi pen.
*I was finally able to pee, two hours later. Just in case anyone was wondering.*
Jul 3, 2013
Jul 2, 2013
The Return of Make-up with Olay Fresh Effects?
When I received my VoxBox, I assumed that I would be allergic to the Olay Fresh Effects BB Cream. Safe assumption when it comes to me, right?
While I gave this to my friend, today I decided to read the box, just for fun. The only potential allergen was "fragrance." I put some on the back of my hand.
Then I promptly forgot about it.
A few hours later, I remembered and realized that I was just fine. So, I tried some on my cheeks and no reaction!
This will most definitely be going with me over the holiday. It's the second place I'll have tried to stay the night at since going into anaphylactic shock for the first time, so cross your fingers!
I'll definitely be nabbing some pictures and sharing more later, as it's been a good years since I've been able to wear any make-up!
This will most definitely be going with me over the holiday. It's the second place I'll have tried to stay the night at since going into anaphylactic shock for the first time, so cross your fingers!
I'll definitely be nabbing some pictures and sharing more later, as it's been a good years since I've been able to wear any make-up!
Jun 29, 2013
Summer Has Officially Arrived with my VoxBox!
The Sunkissed VoxBox has arrived courtesy of Influenster! Full size freebies, here I come!
*Gasp*
But aren't you potentially allergic to some of them?
I sure am. That's what friends are for, right?
I love free stuff, especially when I can share it with friends! |
So, here are the goodies:
Dr. Scholl's for Her High Heel Insoles
Goody Hair Ouchless Ribbon Elastics
Olay Fresh Effects BB Cream
SinfulColors SinfulShine Nail Polish
I'll let you know what we think of them all as we try 'em out!
Jun 28, 2013
Lemon Water and Baking Soda: My Dish Soap!
Since I am allergic to all commercial dish soaps and recently moved to a place without a dishwasher, I was in a bit of a pickle. I tried making my own dish soap previously and failed miserably, but I finally figured out what works!
Lemon water and baking soda!
Does It Work?
Yes! Lemon is naturally disinfecting, and baking soda is abrasive.
How To Use Baking Soda and Lemon Water to Wash Dishes
- Squeeze some lemons and use the lemon juice in some tasty recipe.
- Place about 4 large lemons, or the equivalent in smaller lemons, in a large pot and cover with water.
- Boil gently for about an hour.
- Let set overnight.
- Strain into glass jars.
- Refrigerate.
- Pour a small amount (approx. 1/4 cup) of baking soda into a bowl.
- Add lemon water (approx. 1/3 cup).
- Watch it sizzle!
- Wash dishes with paste.
- Rinse in hot water.
Tips:
- Starting with generally rinsed dishes is easiest.
- For stubborn messes, apply the paste to the dish and let dry. Use water and a little elbow grease to rinse off and remove rust, stains, or stuck-on food.
- Bubbles don't equal clean. It can be a bit unnerving initially, but you'll settle in.
- If you need more baking soda or lemon water, this is not an exact science. As long as you are getting the lemon water at least on the surface, you are disinfecting. The baking soda is simply to serve as a mild abrasive.
Jun 26, 2013
Hugs Hurt Sometimes
Today my hubby had the day off, and I had a phone call for Medicaid. So we were both up around the same time. He stepped over to give me a hug.
I couldn't stop the tears from knowing how bad it would hurt.
Being the loving husband that he is, he started to move away. But I needed the contact, and sobbed for a moment in his arms.
I wonder how much this hurts him. I know it does.
Sure, chronic illness is hard on the patient. But it's hard on the loved ones, too, and they need as much support as they can get!
Jun 25, 2013
How to Make a Latex-Free Bra from an Old Shirt: A Video
By request, my video as to how I make my own latex-free bras. They are not fancy and don't provide incredible support, but they are cheap or even free to make, simple enough for beginner seamstresses, and most of all, latex free!
What do you think? I'm obviously not a professional video tutorial extraordinaire, so please do let me know if I was unclear on anything.
Jun 21, 2013
Free Copy of Amazing Grace Movie
Today only, you can request a free copy of the movie Amazing Grace.
I am beyond excited to see this movie! I now remember hearing about it coming out a while back.
Anywho, you do need to provide some information aside from the general auto-robot-form junk, so do be prepared to think for a minute or two.
Check out the movie trailer for Amazing Grace below:
Thanks, Money Saving Mom!
I am beyond excited to see this movie! I now remember hearing about it coming out a while back.
Anywho, you do need to provide some information aside from the general auto-robot-form junk, so do be prepared to think for a minute or two.
Check out the movie trailer for Amazing Grace below:
Thanks, Money Saving Mom!
Jun 18, 2013
The Chronic Illness and Relationship Series: The Circle of Illness
*Warning: Has a cuss word at the end. Just so you know.*
My prayer today is that today's blog post will make sense. I just came down with a cold, my meds are all screwed up, and I didn't sleep a wink last night.
However, I just got a glimpse of a post on a friend's Facebook page that made me realize that I really need to write this! This person has cancer, so it's all the more relevant in their situation.
Behold, I give you:
The Circle of Illness
*Non-sups= non-supportive people
I know, it's a really crappy rendition, but this is my circle in a nutshell. In case you haven't realized it, I'm sick and have a lot of junk going on in my body that makes me feel like *insert every expletive known to man here* pretty much all the time. It is what it is.
Every person with an illness, whether it's chronic, terminal, or somewhere in between, has their own circle. (Yep, that means you.)
So here's your challenge. Now that you've seen my circle, grab a piece of scrap paper and make your own. I'm not kidding. Do it. It doesn't take long. Write down names.
Now, seeing as how YOU are the center of your illness circle, look at each name. Think about that person. Are they putting positive in or are they putting negative in. If they're putting positive in, that's wonderful! They're a keeper! If they're putting negative in.... well, you may need to re-evaluate that relationship.
Since I'm really starting to need my Kleenex, I'm going to leave it at that for now and revisit our circle fun at a later date. But if you are saddened at the realization that someone you thought loved you is only putting negative into your circle, don't fret. You don't have to do anything right now but recognize it. And feel free to kick them the freak out of your circle.
I've done it. It sucked. It still does suck! But am I better for it. You bet your medicine cabinet I am!
Til later,
Pain free wishes and kickin' bitches outta your circle dreams,
Leanna
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