We had babies... Chicks that is!

Great googly moogly! Wee balls of fuzz invaded Godsbreath Farm! Both from a new incubator and we duck sat for JV. 

We bought a new incubator. Our Brinsea Mini decided it didn't want to work anymore. So we made the big choice to snag a new one from our local TSC. 

I didn't check reviews of this, Harris Farms Nurture Right 360- ($135.00)  but we love it! We choose the one that holds 22 eggs, it has a self-turner, a built-in candler, thermometer, counts down to hatch time, external water pot for easy adding, and auto stop for hatching 3 days before! 

I don't get kickbacks from this but if you are looking for to hatch your own consider this incubator. :) I plan to hatch out some ducks and another batch of chicks starting next week to send to the animal auction. We may keep some of the ducks and send our older crew to the pot. It's not engraved in stone but it's a possibility for the Fall. 


JV's Motley Crew will be going back to her homestead. I may ask if I can keep a few. Our guests are Pekin, Khaki Campbell, and Rouen ducks. They are so cute, but the old battalion is having a hard time adjusting to them. Our male Pekin keeps picking on her and they seem messier than our four. I would still love to find some Indian Runners. I think those would complete our duck adventure! 

We found these last week- 

The is technical name for it and the shorter a name,"Stinkhorn" mushroom. There are other nicknames for it too.

The brown slime on the top attracts all kinds of ants, flying insects, and the like. I haven't smelled them, but I have read that they are smelly like rotting meat. EW, right?! I found them in our mulch. It's not that uncommon. If you handle them you are to wash your hands right away. I'm not planning on doing so or frying them up. (They aren't poisonous.)

My second hive is doing well. WHEW! I was worried after the first one died after a week. The place where we got them called me back after I told them what happened and I never heard back. I do have to try to reach out to them again next week to figure out what the heck happened. 

Our garden is growing well. I attempted to give it a boost by making some compost tea. The results are still out on this one. The darned Japanese Beetles are back, but this time we have the traps out sooner. We feed the bugs to the chickens and ducks... Free food!

 Now before you ask about the statues. I have no idea what came over my fascination with religious statues. I have no clue! No, I haven't turned away from Christianity or joined a different religion. They just tickle me. No worshipping these are necessary. Don't ask for more because there is no more. (BIG GRIN!)

What else is new? I began a book tour for my memoir, "Call me Master" and how I healed, "Rising from the Ashes". I also wrote a short guidebook, "Old Stuff & Dusty Treasures, for someone that wanted to jump into the world of antiques. I was tickled to find someone in Great Britain bought one! So now I'm an International Author! YAY!

Sharing my story has brought a whirlwind of wonderful opportunities for me to inspire someone that is trapped in an abusive situation or perhaps that just left. 

More about that on my other blog- Hope when there was none, you can also find information on where I'll be next on my book tour, speaking engagements, podcasts, and more!

So, let's talk about health. If you're new here, I have been battling Lyme dis-ease for well over 12+ years. I was infected by one Spider in 2007, another Spider in 2015, and once more in 2017 by a Mosquito. Yep, I'm fun to have around! 

You may be scratching your head about this because you have been told you can only get Lyme from Ticks or they aren't in Indiana or I am mistaken since Tick Nymphs are so teeny. 

Well, my Friend, Spider one- I found that the next morning after I rolled on it in the night and it tried to defend itself by biting my hip. I had the Lyme Flu the next day. Spider two was memorable because I felt the bite on my thigh. And within hours I had the Lyme Flu.

The mosquito bite? Yes, on my hip AGAIN but in a different area. Within hours it developed a funky look but I didn't get the Flu that time. 

Why didn't I go to the ER? With my first bite, I did. I was reassured that I was having a negative reaction to that type of spider and I would be okay. They gave me some Benadryl and Cortisone and sent me on my way. For subsequent episodes, I figured the same. SIGH!

I have been feeling all weird again. Irregular heartbeat, Air hunger, Vertigo, increasing Migraines, feeling hungry all the time even after eating, I gained weight (Despite trying Keto, Juicing, No whites and just laying off the carbs), and I was exhausted again. I was beginning to sleep all the time. There were more symptoms creeping back.

I was planning out my last moments again. Yes, it was getting "that bad". I didn't want to put it all out there. I smile. I try not to complain too much.  Jessica, my eldest was begging me to stop talking about my funeral on several occasions. The rest of my family was doing the same. 

Since the great knee incident, I feel as though I wanted to seclude myself. In some ways, I was feeling sorry for myself and like a burden to my family. Trust me I was praying, doing my affirmations, and vision board. My health is nowhere as poor as many chronic Lyme Warriors, but there are negative thoughts that pass through your mind. Luckily, we met Amber and Matt. She raises chickens, ducks, and goats. Mr. Awesome answered an ad about some rare breeds and we had the chance to buy new wee babies. Amber and I struck up a conversation and found out that we had Lyme in common. She alerted me about changes in the laws for Indiana. Mr. Awesome said to get my butt in to see if our favorite doctor can help. I am forever grateful for that meeting!

I went earlier this week. We discussed the possibility that my thyroid was burning green wood rather then seasoned wood. There's more to that but you get the jist. He ordered blood work, and a neato test to find out what medications and such will work for my body. He received the results yesterday and as suspected I was burning green wood. What this meant was a 45 day trial of a medication to give me a boost. He called in the prescription and within a half hour I was on my way to pick it up. I popped one and I gotta tell you, Mr. Awesome and I noticed a difference within an hour!

Today has been amazing! I slept through the night well. I haven't felt the need to take nap. I have more energy and feel good. It's been so long that I admit I'm waiting to see what happens tomorrow. In this short period of time I have chatted with another Lyme Warrior and she has been a wealth of information about Parasites! 

Tomorrow I do have a book signing at Somethin's Brewin Coffee

 Shop & Cafe at ReChic Unique Boutique in Demotte, IN from 1:00 P. M. to 3:00 P. M. I can't wait!


I am feeling blessed at this positive change in my body. I'll keep you updated. 

What's next? If my health continues then that bike across America may be in the works. 

Whatever your journey, I hope that it is blessed and wonderful! Have a great weekend! Talk to you soon!

Much love and BIG HUGS,
Mel

P.S.- If you know someone that is being abused or you suspect they may be. Contact your local law enforcement or shelter. You can also find a great deal of information here-www.thehotline.org

Spring has sprung!

I'm thrilled Spring is finally here. Everything is a wonderful shade of green, flowers popping up all over. I have my garden in for the most part. I'm still undecided what else to plant. I don't want to put too much in that it is too overwhelming for me to take care of. 

Mr. Awesome made a raised bed that helps tremendously since my knee is still healing. Speaking of my knee, it's doing much better. It will be six months in a few weeks since the dastardly incident. I have been riding my stationary bike. I'm nowhere near the miles I put on when I began training. That kind of bums me out but these things happen for a reason. So, if I don't ride across the States on or before I'm 50 I would very much like to walk the Appalachian Trail or maybe the other great ones in the U.S.

Now for the sad news and good news. 

 First the good- Fred appears to be healed from the fox. The adorable wee chicks are doing good and we have seven more ducks from a friend!

The bad- We lost two chicks. A raccoon or possibly a cat attacked one of the bigger chicks (Rooster) in the middle of the night. I put out some of the chicks early since the temps are running above 60 at night but a few days back it dropped to the low 50's with rain and one chick decided to stay out in the rain with the big chicks and may not have been able to get warm again. It died overnight. 

We have a feral cat that had kittens. I believe our dog injured either the Momma or one of her kittens. There was a terrible mournful sound that came out of her hiding spot. That was before we realized she has kittens. She did defend herself and both of our dogs have some scratches from the scuffle. Momma cat has since moved her nest under some wood poles we have. We can't see her but the dogs know she's there. They got into it again a few days ago. No one was hurt except some pride. 

The mole is back in the yard and garden. But since using the raised bed and an old tractor tire with chicken wire underneath the beds are doing wonderful! 

In fantastic news, Peanut graduated! She is unsure of her future. We are trying to be supportive of her. If you haven't heard our story, my girls have PTSD with social anxiety. The thought of going away or starting another job scares her. 

I have two new books out! Find out more here- Hope when there was none or on my Facebook page. Or go to Amazon to purchase. 

In homeschool news. I'm pretty proud of how far Mini Man has come. I didn't push him. I introduced subjects that were of his interest. I did purchase The Playful Pioneers curriculum through The Peaceful Press. It's based on The Little House on the Prairie books. We love it! 

I ended up getting off track after injuring my knee and one too many Lyme flare-ups. I relied on YouTube and Netflix to help me through that time. I also picked up worksheets, workbooks and textbooks from Teachers Pay Teachers, yard sales and Dollar Tree. I've found books on poetry, history, and more. I'm pretty tickled. I have enough to keep him schooled through the 4th grade. I decided to teach him cursive handwriting straight out of the gate. Right now we are just learning letters with a sprinkling of words. Next year I plan to introduce usage in all of his writing. 

There is a learning curve. Despite the fact I have three grown children they went to public school so I never had to really assist them with homework. This is new.  I do enjoy it. I can go at his pace. We can take more time to work on things that he doesn't understand or that he needs to keep practicing. I don't make him do more than two hours of work. He is antsy after 20 minutes. We take breaks. Have YouTube/Netflix learning videos only days. We have game day or reading day. We also work on Art, Social Studies, History from time to time. Every day is Reading, Writing, Math. No, if's, and's, or but's.


I had to do what works for both of us and I told Mr. Awesome that I would like to school him year round. We will take breaks for the holidays of course. 


It's been busy around here. How is it in your neck of the woods?

Someone I think you should know- Tammy Szostek

I run into the most courageous people. They don't realize what an impact they have made upon me. Every single one of them! Some I have met once, others I've known for years, and many I have yet to meet. 

Everyone has a struggle, big dreams or a goal they are going for. Sadly, Tammy's story is like the many other stories I have heard from those suffering from chronic illness. 

We met at a Lyme Dis-ease meeting. I admired her moxie to keep going even though you could tell she was clearly hurting. She finds time to volunteer in the community, spend time with family, and still keep a smile on her face.  

I hope you see the fierce light that I first saw in Tammy through this post. 

****************************

Hi Tammy! Can you tell me about when you noticed something was not quite right with your health?

Tammy says, "I noticed about 12 years ago! I seemed to be always sick and weird things started happening. I started having seizures out of the blue. My one kidney just stopped working and Dr's couldn't figure it out."

So, at what point did you decide, "Ok, I'm really sick and just not getting any better by the advice of my doctor and need to try something different."

She shares, "I guess when I had my first stroke I knew something was wrong. The Dr's once again couldn't figure any of this out. I was starting to have worse seizures. But I was faking it all according to the Dr's"

I asked her how has her health challenges impacted daily life/work/activities. Not hesitating, Tammy confides, "It has stopped me from living! I can't drive with uncontrolled seizures. I never feel well enough to go out. I have turned into a hermit. My husband has to force me out of the house. I can't work because I can't drive there and people don't like to hire epileptics although they wouldn't say that's the reason."

Can you tell me about how your views on how current medical treatments and medication changed?

She answers emotionally, "I have given up on treatment. My body has stopped absorbing everything medications and vitamins. So, the Dr tells me there is no point in taking it. I'm basically just being monitored at this point. They say, I'll be lucky if I'm still alive 7 years from now."

When asked at what point has she become frustrated with the medical community, she answered, "I'm frustrated everyday that I am suffering everyday as well as, many others because we can't get proper diagnosis and proper treatment."

So, Tammy was there a moment when you had to step back and laugh for a change otherwise you would cry?

She said that on most days she does.

When asked if what kind of support or feedback during her journey she says, "Mostly positive I have a very supportive husband and sister. Some don't understand. Like one day I can walk just fine another day I need assistance. I've heard the whispers and nasty comments."

Personally, I have heard many interesting and wacky remedies, what is the most interesting or memorable remedy you tried in hopes of healing and did it work or fail for you? 

She recalls, "I ordered something from England. I can't remember what it was called. But, it didn't work. There was a wacky diet where I could basically eat nothing and I still gained 130 lbs. I have since lost that weight. In a year and a half I've lost 160 lbs. Again, no one can figure out why."

When she needs strength she turns to God.

She continues to share that the dynamic in her home has changed since her health challenges began. "It makes me feel like a bad wife at times. My husband comes home from working hard long hours and I don't have dinner cooked or house the cleaned. I feel horrible because he deserves so much better."

Tammy, if you could change one thing in the medical community in regard to the challenges of being a patient what would that be? 

She responds, "Fair treatment and make them believe in Lyme"

Looking back on your health journey what advice would you give to someone just beginning to look for answers on their path? Tammy urges others to, "Don't let Dr's bully you. Fight for treatment with all you have! Don't take no for an answer."

A favorite quote or motto she has is, "I still got a lot of fight in me. Or from, Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

If you have questions or just want to send a virtual hug to Tammy, she can be reached by tamtamleigh@gmail.com or phone 219-895-1334.
email 

Someone I think you should know- Taylor Schwabe

In 2015 I received the most joyous news... I had Lyme Dis-ease. Why was there joy? That diagnosis opened the doorway for years of unanswered questions I had about my health. I shared my woes and such on social media such as I do with my abuse survival story. 



I was excited to have LymeLight Stories reach out to me to do an interview about my story! After my story ran I connected with the courageous leader, Taylor Schwabe. Seeing her as a Hero for spreading awareness as well as her own personal battle led me to find out what 'Her' story is. 

She is kindly opening up to share an intimate peek into her life with overcoming Lyme. I hope you glean wisdom and know you are not alone in 'your' journey.


Hi Taylor! So, tell me about when you noticed something was not quite right with your health.

"The most severe symptoms began in 2014 while I was in college (although looking back now, I was bitten by several ticks at a young age and had minor symptoms throughout the years). After finishing class one day, I started experiencing a sharp, stabbing sensation in my chest. It was very painful, like a knife, whenever I took an inhale - and no matter how I positioned myself, it didn’t subside. At urgent care, they could not find anything wrong based on a chest x-ray and EKG. 

More symptoms continued to pile on in the following weeks: I started to get neuropathy in different parts of my body (like tingling & pins-and-needles). My hearing started to decrease and the GI issues, fatigue, and joint pain worsened...the sharp chest pain persisted with every inhale - Along with this, I developed the sensation of being unable to catch a full breath (called “air hunger”). Every day since then, I have been struggling with these symptoms and working hard to heal. "

At what point did you decide, "Ok, I'm really sick and just not getting any better by the advice of my

doctor and need to try something different."

Taylor recalls, "After things took a turn for the worse, I saw many different health providers (MDs, naturopaths, alternative health practitioners) over the course of a year... No one was able to give me a concrete diagnosis nor did I experience any relief from their therapies. Like many in the chronic illness community, I was told that my symptoms were due to being "over-stressed" and that they were "in my head."  

After nearly a year with no explanation and no end in sight for these terrible symptoms, I was feeling pretty hopeless. This was when two friends (separately) suggested that I look into chronic Lyme Disease. After researching the symptoms of chronic Lyme and discovering that false negatives are common with conventional testing, I decided to see a Lyme specialist, which was when I was diagnosed with chronic Lyme, Babesiosis, and Bartonella."

Taylor, I know there are so many remedies and wacky treatments out in the world. What is the weirdest you tried and did it work?

She says, "Some of the treatments I’ve tried are pretty "out there". Over the past few years I’ve experimented with a wide variety of therapies - everything from antibiotics to shamans, from placing giant magnets over my organs to being zapped with lasers and electromagnetic machines, from western modalities to eastern modalities, and everything in between... One of the weirder treatments I received was when a practitioner rebalanced my Yin & Yang energies by waving an antenna (with green/red lasers) over several of my chakra points...I can't say I noticed a benefit from that one!"

When asked if she could change "1" thing in the medical community in regard to the challenges of being a patient she answered, "I left many appointments feeling vulnerable, alone, and unheard. There have been many times where I felt that my visits were rushed - I didn't have time to ask questions because there was pressure for the provider to hurry into the next room for a different patient. I wish that all providers genuinely wanted to do medicine in order to help people heal - and that healing would be more of a lifestyle for those who choose health professions, instead of merely a way to make a living. I feel fortunate to have found a few providers who truly live to heal others as best they can - when you’re with them, you feel hopeful and you know you are heard...wish there were more like this!"

Taylor is super excited that she is beginning to see with a Lyme-savvy neurologist and this has made her hopeful about future treatments... She happily adds that she is also moving soon - back to a place that she loves!

I asked if there was a ritual, object or tool can she not live without or that she must use everyday even it isn't health related. 

She responded, "Meditation (at one of my outdoor "hideout" spots) has been an important ritual for recovery. Also, going for a drive with some of my favorite albums turned up really loud has been a good release. 😄"

How has the dynamic at home and or work changed since you have had your health challenges?

"I’ve had to decline several professional opportunities due to my health... which has been frustrating, especially considering my age (23). This is a time when I want to be focusing my energy on building a career and having fun, not trying to recover from disease. During the past few years, there have been periods that I was able to work full-time, periods when I could only handle part-time work, and periods when I could not work at all because the symptoms became too debilitating.

I am lucky that my immediate family has been supportive, as well as many close friends. Even with an amazing support system, it can still be very isolating - No one else knows exactly how much pain you might be experiencing at any given time, and you don't always want to explain how it feels to others, especially because it might make them feel bad. We can't expect family and friends to understand what it feels like to live with these symptoms day in and day out but, it makes a huge difference to surround yourself with people who appreciate the seriousness of this condition and who want to walk through this challenge with you." 

Taylor, could you tell me how the idea for LymeLight Stories come about? 

She replied, "LymeLight Stories" has been a fun, small side-project that came about because I was starting to connect with so many other Lyme patients. I was amazed by the similarities of our stories, particularly with the challenging and long diagnostic process. I thought that having a platform where I could share other Lyme patients' experiences would build awareness of the fact that late-stage Lyme can mimic many other conditions and that receiving a diagnosis can be extremely difficult."

When asked about a favorite quote or motto she has, she says her favorite quote is: "Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”  ~ Viktor Frankl

I asked her what hobbies she enjoys, she says, "Anything outdoors...especially hiking & skiing when I can. Music, too - piano, guitar, mostly."

Taylor, looking back on your health journey what advice would you give to someone just beginning to look for answers on their path?

"Recovering from chronic illness is complex, multi-layered, and very unique to each person. What works for one person may not work for the next. Antibiotics may help some people with chronic Lyme, and they may not be the right path for others. People are quick to give you their opinion on the best treatment to do. There is not a lot of gentleness when people talk about “miracle cures” and what worked to get them to “remission.” It’s great to talk with other patients and learn about all of the different treatments, but bear in mind that the same thing that worked for “Bobby Sue” may not work the same for you!

Just as people love to tell you what to do, people are also quick to tell you what NOT to do. There will be advocates and naysayers for any direction you choose. I’ve had people tell me that antibiotics are a bad idea and others tell me that alternative therapies wouldn’t work - ultimately, it may be a lot of trial-and-error until you find what works best for you. One cool thing about all of this is that you will likely build a communication with your body. You'll be able to better tune into what causes you to feel different, for better or worse, whether it’s a medication, supplement, or food. This awareness can be a useful guide to help navigate treatment. 

It would be great if there were one silver bullet for everyone - but everyone has a different set of puzzle pieces to work with. Besides the tick/vector-borne infections, you may also have to address other factors - like heavy metal/environmental toxicity, mold toxins, parasites, yeast, viruses, other pathogens, immune/hormonal imbalances, among other things...

I wish I had taken detox methods more seriously at the beginning of my journey - I didn't appreciate how important it is to get the toxins out to best support your body as it fights off all of the infections. There is a lot of good information online about different ways to detox for chronic illness. Also, talking to others with chronic illness and chronic Lyme (whether that's in a support group, online, at your doctor's office, or any other way) can be very rewarding - sometimes the best therapy is connecting with people who really "get it." 

As difficult as it is to be fighting for your health and getting through the days with debilitating symptoms, illness brings a lot of lessons and ways to grow. Lessons of awareness, of finding balance and self-compassion, of disengaging from the ego, and of letting go. Healing is an opportunity to get to know yourself better, too.

Something that helps me get through the hardest days is reminding myself that there is meaning in the suffering - Pain can be turned into purpose, as we can use this experience to relate to and help others going through their own challenges." 

For more information or to just give a little virtual hug to Taylor reach her at-schwabe24@gmail.com. LymeLight Stories for inspirational stories. 

Is Winter over yet?

I would wager to say this has to be the coldest Winter in a very LONG time!

Being homebound has given me a bit of a cabin fever. I did get out over the past two weekends. Short trips into the nearby town. I got pretty pooped pretty fast. I'll find out later this week what is the story about my knee. (If I need surgery) The results show ligament tears, cartilage damage and my MCL has a tear. I'm still hobbling around on my crutches. This is week 7 and I was hoping for more mobility. I think I'm pushing myself too hard.

The rest of this Winter has not been uneventful!

Sadly, we have lost 3 hens due to the cold and 1 hen from an Owl. Right now we have 5 Ducks and 8 Chickens, including our Roo.  Our hope is to make or buy an incubator to hatch more. Or hit the farm auction in a few months for wee ones.

Our neighbor was wonderful to plow us out a few times! The pipes in the bathroom froze on two occasions. We were without propane twice, once due to running out, the company didn't come out in time to fill us and the other was due to the blower going out.

I've been pounding away on my second book. YAY me!

Homeschooling has been fun, but yet challenging. Mini Man is more of  Kinesthetic learner- meaning he learns much better through physical actions then me yammering on about different subjects.

My wonderful Sister came out for a visit a few weeks back. It was a lovely time! I twisted her arm to do a Vision Board. She brought Zucchini that was super yummy. Mini Man and my adorable Nephew played Nerf guns and ran around like mad men.

We're still doing garden planning and other house projects. I say, "We" but I really mean Mr. Awesome. I kind of just supervise from the couch. But I did treat myself to some nifty photo boxes that I am using for my seed storage. SWOON! I love how they look in them! Most of the seeds are ones I have collected from the previous years harvest. I do have a bit older and plan to test them to see if they are still viable before planting.




So, we burn our paper out in a burn barrel. Peanut is in charge of this task. Well... It was a bit breezy on Saturday when she tackled this project. Sure enough a ember flew out and WHOOSH! She came running in the house yelling for Mr. Awesome that the field was on fire. YIKES!






He ran outside and I hobbled to the back door to catch a few pictures. The event took about a half hour. Both of them were pretty tired when they got back in. We had planned on doing a bit of a small burn to hit the Thistles that are crazy in the meadow. So in a way it works out?






It was so nice outside yesterday we went to church! It's been ages and I missed going. The weather was also nice enough that Mr. Awesome grabbed chairs and I was able to ground myself.

I also got a chance to see some bee's flying and our other critters having a run around the yard.

Besides my knee, the Lyme has been flaring fierce. The upcoming supermoon is definitely making my body wonky. Creepy crawly, migraine, body pains and just all around feeling crappy.

I am putting in paperwork for Disability. It's my 4th round of doing so. This time I received a notice in the mail that my health provider considers my health medically frail and that I should consider filing for disability. I'm torn. I want to beat this. The flip side is that Lyme will never completely go away. It will hide (remission) until something causes it to rear its ugly head again. I don't wish to call myself disabled. That makes me feel defeated. Does that make sense? I do need to jump back on the fitness wagon by cutting out the sugar, carbs and other inflammatory things. I know I'll feel better. On the flipside I hate to burden my family with added special foods for groceries. I haven't cooked too much since the great knee incident. Convenience prepacked foods have been in the house. Where is Spring? Maybe that will help my mood.

So how is your Winter looking?

Hope your day is great!

BIG HUGS!
Mel

Guess what I did...

I can't believe I did something so crazy, last Saturday. 

The day started innocently enough. We had a birthday party for my adorable Nephew, who turned the big 3 years old, to go to later that day. 

It's a hike from our home to the party place, but we made it a nice time by hitting our favorite breakfast spot when in the area- Omelette House. I'm drooling just thinking about it now. 

Afterwards, we hit a thrift store that was 'new' to us. That ate up just enough time to go to the party!

We hadn't even been at the party for an hour when disaster struck...

I was participating in something that a woman of the age of 47 years young, should not be doing.

What you ask?

Bouncing with my Sisters, in a bounce house. 

Yep! There I was feeling good. Thinking my Lymph system is going to be very happy from all the jumping around I was doing. Everyone is having a grand time. 

Next thing you know, I bounced and came down in excruciating pain! 

I saw stars.

The pain took my breath away.

My head felt thick and fuzzy. 

I could hear their worried voices filled with concern and excitement in the background. In that group of voices, I could hear my Mom, asking if I can get up because I was scaring the children. Oddly and inwardly, that made me laugh. She added that she didn't want anyone bumping into me, causing me more hurt.

Gotta love her! 

I kept feeling as though I was wetting my pants. My vanity kept checking to make sure I wasn't. That's all I needed. On top of hurting my knee, pride, feeling stupid and to pee myself?!

UGH!

I heard someone yell to look for Terry, who had just ran to the store for a T-shirt a very sweaty, Mini Man. 

Next thing you know these beautiful blue eyes are staring at me with so much love that I felt my heart burst. He spoke to me gently about if I could move my leg. I honestly don't remember speaking. 

I felt hot and sweaty. 

I couldn't speak.

I felt like I was going to throw up. I thought to myself, please don't let me blowing chunks too...

The fuzzy cotton feeling was leaving my head, though there was ringing in my ears making it hard to hear everyone. Voices were chatting all at once at me. 

Could I walk? 
Could I move my toes? 
Was I okay?

Terry asked if I could get up. I shook my head and squeaked out a "No!"

My leg felt weird. Kind of like jelly but with hot pokers stabbing the knee. My hip and ankle hurt too. At the same time I didn't feel my leg. It felt floaty. That scared me. It was a weird feeling. If it felt floaty why did it hurt so *@*!-ing bad?!

He managed to help me slide out. He asked if I could walk. I tried but then I felt a lightening flash of pain as my knee decided to slide to the left of my leg. The back of my leg felt as though it was popping to the back of where it shouldn't and the top of my leg seemed to keep on it's path forward. 

I freaked out and saw my Dad sitting to my left and called for him.

Back in the day, he was in charge of the Ortho Department as a Ortho Tech. 

He came over quickly, peppered me with questions about how I was feeling. 

They found me a chair that I managed to slide in. I felt the room dimming. Even my lips felt heavy.

I told myself, 'NO! I can't pass out! Mini Man is scared enough!'

His eyes were as big as saucers and I could see his bottom lip quivering with worry.

I felt a rush of heat that reminded me of a hot flash. Still feeling nauseated, someone gave me a bottle of water and an ice pack. 

Dad and Terry kept talking to me. All the while I just wanted everyone to be quiet. 

I couldn't think. 

I hated to worry everyone. I knew something was terribly wrong with my knee. Dad reminded Terry we are right across the street from the hospital.

After what seemed like an eternity, in actuality I think it was less than 10 minutes, I told Terry I think we needed to go to the E.R.

Arrangements were made to keep Mini Man at the party with the family. There was about another hour to go and he was looking forward to pizza and cake. Staying would get his thoughts toward something fun instead of worrying about me. 

My parents and Terry managed to grab a wheeled chair to take me out to the Jeep.

I felt cooler at that time. My need to vomit was fading. Thank goodness!

I managed to joke with other parents as we were leaving, not to play in the bounce house because this is what happens.

I couldn't just get in the Jeep like usual. 

NO WAY!

Terry thought it would be best for me to sit in the back across the seats. I freaked out a few more times as the knee wiggled off the side of my leg again, sending stars back. 

Now how we got in the E.R. is fuzzy. I'm not sure why. 

I shook just about the whole time I was there. I know the shock of the whole situation was bearing down on me. Terry gave me a HUGE hug that grounded me back down to earth. 

After the evaluation with the D.R., he said, he believed that my Patella may have been detached as well as damage to ligaments and possibly my MCL.

I felt even more dumb.

My parental units and Sister  brought Mini Man to us afteward. Mom captured that pivotal moment on video. So, much of that moment maybe entirely different then I recall. 

By this time I was in better spirits, was given pain medication and waiting to be discharged. They joked a kidded me to keep my mind from wondering about my horrendous folly.

The ride home was not pleasant. I hadn't eaten since early that morning and the pain medication was making my nausea worse. 

I was never ever so grateful to see the Golden Arches. We rarely eat fast food but it was just enough to settle my stomach. I closed my eyes on the way home, still using my pressure points to help with the car sickness as well.

After we got settled in, I reassured Mini Man that my leg didn't fall off and wasn't broken. I showed him what it looked like and that satisfied him enough to ease his concerns.

A visit on Wednesday to see the Orthopedic D.R. was another backseat adventure. 

Did I mention I get carsick in the backseat? I was holding my pressure points on the way to and from on last Saturday and Wednesday. 

His thought is that I just tore the heck out of my knee area and that he will know more when he see the MRI results. He believes that a 6-8 week recovery will be in order. 


BUT...

He stated that if the MRI shows if I tore or detached my Patella or MCL or worse then I will need surgery that he would do 'after' my 6-8 week for the swelling to go down. Then, the surgery. The recovery from that will be another 6-8 weeks to heal. 

Confused? I was too. 

So, we are talking a possible 112 days if it is the worst scenario when all said and done!

ECK!

The MRI has not yet been approved by insurance. I'm supposed to have it on this upcoming Tuesday, seeing the D.R. again on Wednesday for the results. He also ordered a flexible knee brace that I did get an appointment for on Wednesday as well. 

So this is where I'm at. I work my way between one side of the couch to another. I try to sit in Mr. Awesome's chair to add variety and get up at least once an hour to stretch my aching behind. 

Training for my whirlwind bike tour is off the table right now. It's not impossible, just not happening for awhile.

The opening of my little antique shop is also being pushed back until late Summer or Fall of 2018.

When I do it, I really do it good!

Thankfully, Peanut is on Winter break. She can help me out really well. I've enlisted her and Mr. Awesome to perform energy work on my knee at least once a day. 

I received a new book, 'How to heal yourself when no one else can', by Amy B. Scher. that I'm excited about trying out. It deals with EFT. I'll experiment and let you know how that works with my other energy work. 

Mini Man is the every dutiful wee one. He helps out a bunch and only whines complains a little bit.

I admit to already going stir crazy. I am still a terrible patient.  

Mr. Awesome believes that in some weird way maybe this is a way for me to slow down and just heal from Lyme issues. 

I feel grateful. 

It wasn't both legs. 

These legs have supported me everyday. 

Carried me. 

Helped me run to safety when I needed to. 

I love my legs. 

Kind and soulful, Wendi, who is a Moderator in one of the many FB groups I recently joined, reminded me to send love to my legs. I need to do this for the rest of my body as well for continued healing for Lyme.

It's funny how much you begin to appreciate things when you are unable to do the normal routine. I'm blessed. This is small stuff in comparison to so many other issues others have. Though I may rant whine  talk about being a bummed and frustrated. I know this is for a reason. 

I have had time to finish a shawl that I had been working on and off for a few years.

I crocheted a pair of slippers for myself, created a button necklace and earring set, and working on my next book. 

Most importantly, I have time to dig into my Bible!

Research design ideas for my shop, call Scotty about opening a farmstay, market my books, do another Vision Board, design our next garden, think of potentially setting up at the Spring fleamarket and dream of other wonderful things next year. 

I'm excited no matter what the outcome of my knee. I know God's got this!


P.S.- It's okay to laugh at this. I am. What a story that my Sister will remember, marking my Nephews special day!

Holy smokes Batman! There's a chicken in the house! Give-away time! Update!

Well, not really in our house! But it got you wondering didn't it? Mr. Awesome created a new box for our girls that are in the nesting sort of mood. This will help give our other hens a chance to actually lay in The Abbey for a change. We are pretty sure there is a cache of eggs in the meadow. I'm sure we will discover by smell or in the Fall.

It came out neato and in super condition! HEHE! The Batman cut out was from Mini Man's loft bed that he has since outgrew last year. It's a great repurpose and the girls love it, though they are snuggled up in the same box for some reason. Any insight on this appreciated!


These weeks have been busy! I have been harvesting yummy herbs for teas, smudge sticks, bug bite balms, aches and pain balms. I have a few tinctures planned and hope to broaden my herbs to better serve myself. Sorry sounds stingy doesn't it? It's not meant to. I do share! Honest!

I'm seeking out herbs and plants to help me in my Lyme journey. Buying the plants may seem weird but the cost of many of these are expensive!

We were blessed to have the local power company come and take down power from a barn that hasn't been used in at least a decade! There is a rumor the barn and silo are next! GASP! Now we have already looked at it and thought what can we ask to reuse? The answer is nothing. Most of the structure is in terrible shape. Not too much to be harvested or repurposed. Barn wood you say? A great deal is not the "Oh so gorgeous" barn wood you see on Pinterest. So, we aren't going to be crying to see it go.

The structure has been a hotbed of wild animal love. From Skunks, Raccoons to heaven knows what else!

We have had a busy few weeks, from our Annual Turkey Run Adventure, the micro-burst that hit the homestead a few weeks back to taking a self-defense course that still has me achy!

 Micro-burst mayhem in the next few pictures!

This grain dryer didn't have a dent in it prior to the storm! It was also lifted enough to take it off the concrete pad. The farmer took a peek inside to see if it was salvageable and discovered it would be too costly to repair.










This tank was about 10 feet away from this location as well as around the corner from where it landed. Alcatraz (What we call our quarantine area for animals in the background in front of the bus) was also next to the tank but was toppled to the area that you see here. Mr. Awesome did stand it up before I could take a picture. We were amazed! The barn roof also was lifted up on one side of it. Mr. Awesome has since used Hurricane straps to fasten the roof.

 Here is the agile and amazing aggressive (But not surprising) Ms. Peanut! We were gifted a 1 day session with Protective Tactics out of Chesterton, IN. We learned a great deal to help us in case of an attack and then some. While it was fun and informative, I am afraid it was too intense for me.

Part of the practice was to wait for your 'Attacker' to make his move on you so you can show what skills you have learned. I was a big ball of emotions and broke down. It made me irritated with myself. When will these feelings go away? If you don't know my story read a brief summary here- Hope when there was none- My story of surviving abuse . I was very proud of how well Peanut did during this class but it pains my heart to know how much my children experienced. Enough about that! All in all the class was full of good information.

My book is being edited by a dear Friend.  I pray it will be in Ebook form before the end of the year. No frills. Just information how we escaped our abuser and to let others know they are not alone.

I started implementing restorative yoga 2 to 3 times a week. I'm easing into it. I'm also trying to make sure I walk 4 to 6 miles 5 days a week in order to gain more energy and lose my fluff. I hope to stick to my low carb (Keto) and no sugar eating habit. It's all me and I admit I love my sugar and whites. I kicked them to the curb before but need to dig in with more restraint. None of these are good for Lyme Disease.

My garden isn't as flourishing as I hoped. I'm still losing plants to heat, rabbits and now Japanese Bettles! UGH! The dream of canning a bunch of items may not happen. I do have quite a bit of herbs to dry and have found several spots of Elderberry and Echinacea!

WHOOPIE!

I have also missed a few chances to set up to sell my vintage treasures. I have to admit it but I'm beat after working. The time I do have after is spent napping or just trying to catch up on domestic stuff. Then I'm too tired to think about selling. I've enlisted J.V. to help when she and Mike are available. We worked a bit today with inventory but it was a bit warm out despite Mr. Awesome reminding me to turn on the fan... Duh!

I really hope by next Spring to have some digs to call my own for Customers to browse and shop. I would like to host some foraging and herbal concoction classes too.

Oh did I mention I'll be hosting a Give-A-Way of a Pendulum?
What mystical witchcraft am I spewing? How am I a Christian talking about this?

No I'm not talking about conjuring spirits or anything like that. You can use this as a tool to help you with food and your body. Seriously! Feel free to message me for the how-to's of using this privately.

So how do you win? You have to enter of course! I'll be sharing a post about entering on my Instagram account and at Legacy Antiques and Estate Sales within the next few days. More Give-Aways for the next few months.

Also to come are more interviews, 'Someone I think you should know' as well as updates on a few past interviewees.

 How's your month been so far? I'd love to hear from you!

BIG HUGS!
Mel

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Give-away time! Winner will win either 1 necklace or 1 pendulum of their choosing.  Available  Pendulums are #rosequartz , #rosewood , and #opalescence. Like this page or if you already have please Share page on your feed! Leave a comment about which item you would like to win. 1 lucky winner will be chosen on Saturday!

Pendulums can be used as a tool for your health! How?!

You can take it shopping and use it to help you choose what foods are good for your body. As an example:
Is this cheese fresh?
Is this a good buy?
Does this product have preservatives or chemicals in it?
Does this fruit have pesticides?
Is this meal fit to eat?

As you would for muscle testing place a common remedy in your left hand (Peppermint tea, ACV, Eldberry, etc...) and see what the pendulum does!
The fabrics that you wear daily have different vibrations as well and the pendulum can be used to figure out if a particular outfit has good vibrations for you.
Pendulums can be used to help realign the energy of someone that is suffering from Depression as well as Bi-Polar issues.

I was recommended The Pendulum Book by Hanna Kroeger to use. It is very informative and useful as are many of her books!

So! You ready to enter? Head over to Facebook and Like my page- Legacy Antiques & Estate Sales. Comment which item you would like to win. That's it!