Super Bowl Musings + Road Trip Recollection

Super Bowl Musings

I don't have a pony in this show, but I did watch the last quarter of the Patriots AFC championship. Tom Brady & crew operated as if the game was theirs to win, & they won it. Their opponents played "not to lose." They lost. Philadelphia's fans pummeled Vikings fans in a needlessly boorish manner. Talk about sore winners. I hope they lose to New England. I hope N.E. comes from behind & scores the winning points as time expires. *
* I guess that I do have a pony in this show.

From the Minneapolis Star Tribune (1/29):  "Brett Favre is doing a megabuck autograph session . . . from 11:00-12:30 SAT. Some of the most expensive VIP packages are already sold out, but a standard autographed photo will run you $219.99."  COMMENT:  Send me $2.19, & I will send you a standard autographed photo of . . . ME! That's right. The Cornhusker State Blogger is thinking that someday his autograph may command the same atmospheric proceeds as Brett Favre's, assuming that I win a Pulitzer Prize.

From the St. Paul Pioneer Press (1/28): "There have been some 5,800 media credentials representing 25 countries issued for the Super Bowl in Minneapolis."  COMMENT:  I've been away from home for awhile so haven't been checking the mail. The first thing I'll do when I get home today is check to see whether my credentials have arrived.

Ditto:  "For Super Bowl SUN, both Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport & Holman Field are sold out for reservations for private jets to land."  COMMENT:  Just wait until Scott Frost makes an appearance in Norfolk, NE, & see how quickly the Norfolk International Airport sells out its reservations for private jets & crop dusters to land.

Ditto:  "The Super Bowl comes once a year. Eat that way. 15 new concessions available only for the big game. [Here are the foods I will be looking for, if my press credentials arrive in time.]

• "Espresso ala Mode:  French vanilla ice cream, chocolate shavings, mini marshmallows & espresso sauce in a bubble waffle . . . 
• "2-minute Drill Dog:  Vienna dog topped with bacon, buffalo ketchup, blue cheese, diced celery & ranch . . . 
• "Braised Short Rib Sandwich:  Tender, juicy beef, topped w/a swipe of roasted garlic & cheddar sauce, smoked tomatoes & crisp, pickled red onions . . . 
• "Walleye Chowder:  Upscale fish soup w/bits of our state fish, potatoes & the state starch--wild rice . . . 
• "Kramarczuk's Wild Rice Bratwurst:  Juicy sausage gets nutty flavor from wild rice. Sweet caramelized onions & lingonberry chutney toppings are a nice touch."

Road Trip Recollection

My last day at the Mayo Clinic's Executive Health Program was not without some drama. Actually, my entire experience in Rochester had more than its share of drama, but I digress. Here are the highlights from TUE 1/30.

• My mtg w/a member of the diabetes treatment center was very informative & reinforced that I need to get past my slump & get serious about this stuff.
• Nephrologist doesn't like the sound of my cough & sends me for another blood draw & chest x-ray.
• Nephrologist & physician who manages my program (PWMMP) don't like the look of the chest x-ray & send me for a CT scan.
• When I meet w/PWMMP for my last appt before starting my trek back home, he shows me my the chest x-ray. Results from CT scan aren't available yet, but shadows on x-ray are cause for concern.
• As I'm leaving Rochester, PWMMP calls to tell me that the consensus is that I do have either a case of mild pneumonia or a respiratory infection. Since (1) it would take a pulmonologist to definitely diagnose condition, (2) he & the nephrologist think the best course of action is to treat me for pneumonia, so . . . 
• . . . There will be an antibiotic used for pneumonia waiting for me at Hy-Vee when I get home today.
• He recommends a follow-up with a Mayo pulmonologist in 2 weeks, since CT indicates that a respiratory infection may date back to before my influenza diagnosis on FRI 1/19.
• I just want to get home & try to get someone to prescribe a potent cough medicine which will help me sleep through the night. Which reminds me . . . 
• PWMMP tells me that it wouldn't be unlikely for my symptoms of fatigue & coughing to last last 4-6 weeks, maybe longer.

The Mayo Road Trip Moves Quickly--Well, not really--to a Conclusion

Almost there! On MON 1/15, I left Norfolk for Rochester, MN & the Mayo Clinic. My first round of tests, examinations, & consultations took me thru THU 1/18. I spent that weekend w/Nathan & Laura, returned to Rochester on SUN 1/21, & had a 2nd round of tests, examinations & consultations that took me thru FRI 1/26. After another weekend at my son's house, I returned to Rochester this past SUN 1/28 for one last round of the same. Lord willing, it appears as if I'll finish up w/one last consultation this afternoon (TUE 1/30), then start my trek home.

Highlights of the first week of my Executive Health Program? I'm not sure if highlights is the right word for it, but some blood tests & two exercise tests indicated the possibility of a blockage, along w/some evidence that my kidneys were not performing optimally.Also, I had a colonoscopy. [Don't bother requesting a video. Apparently there IS no video. Inquiring minds want to know whether this is SOP or evidence of more corruption at the highest levels of government.]

The main "highlight" of the 2nd week was an angiogram which confirmed that I have an 80% blockage in the main artery of the heart. This will lead to the insertion of a stint, but I can wait until I get back to Norfolk to set the wheels in motion. 

All these machinations led to important tests & consultation having to be cancelled, then rescheduled, which necessitated a return to Mayo yesterday, MON 1/29. [My original schedule should have concluded last FRI 1/16.] Yesterday was long but not very intense.

•  First thing in the morning I had an ultrasound of my abdominal vessels & kidneys. This is supposed to confirm that my kidney functions are returning to normal. I'll find out the results when I meet w/a nephrologist this morning.
• I had a consultation in the sleep lab & was reassured that I did NOT suffer from sleep apnea. In fact, even if I wanted a CPAP, Medicare wouldn't cover it, because I don't qualify.
• Late in the afternoon I met w/2 dermatologists to look at some spots on the top of my scalp. I've had "spots" frozen off my skull twice before. The conclusion was that these spots are pre-cancerous but not troublesome. They were frozen off again, & I was told to keep monitoring them.
• These 3 appt's were spaced out so that I began at 9:15a & finished after 4:00. It was a long but relatively stress-free day.

Hopefully I will say the same after today's 3 appt's. I meet w/the nephrologist at 8:15. I have a diabetes consultation at 1:45 & a final consultation w/the physician overseeing my program at 4:00. Looks like another long but relatively stress-free day. I'll drive to Jackson, MN, after that last appt, stay overnight, then return to Norfolk tomorrow. I'm ready to be home.

And what about the flu?

I was diagnosed w/Influenza A on FRi 1/19 & put on a regimen of tamiflu for 5 days. Supposedly, I'm not contagious. A lingering cough which continues to make it very difficult for me to get a good night's sleep remains my biggest complaint. I've heard from several others that my symptoms, especially fatigue, could linger for another 4-6 weeks. That's depressing, but I'm thankful that I had a flu shot--which theoretically helped tamp down the severity of my "attack"--& had a doctor check me out on the 19th, which got me on the tamiflu. 

You've probably read a lot about the flu epidemic that's been sweeping the country. I haven't seen the terms "Influenza A" & "Influenza B." I HAVE seen the term "swine flu," which seems to be the villain in this "pandemic." Does that mean what I really had/have is swine flu? Once again, inquiring minds want to know. [And for the record, I have never been diagnosed w/any strain of influenza in the past.]

Mental Health Monday

It's been awhile since I've written a Mental Health Monday post. Read at your own risk.

Clinical Depression

I was diagnosed with clinical depression over 10 years ago. My history since then has been like a roller coaster. My current depressive state stretches back to late spring, early summer. Symptoms:  gloomy attitude & general apathy are the 2 main ones. It has taken an unusual amount of time for me to get out from under this current episode. I would attribute that to medication issues & physical health concerns. What distinguishes clinical depression from a case of the "blues" is the chronic nature of clinical depression. Typically, it just doesn't go away, although it varies in degree.

SAD

Lois & I used to note that we reached a real slump toward the end of JAN every year. In hindsight, I think what we experienced was a type of Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is a variant of clinical depression. A lack of sunshine, a lack of Vitamin D [according to some sources], going to work in the dark & returning in the dark, being cooped up . . . These are all symptoms. It can be hard to distinguish SAD from the typical gloominess of this time of year. I've never been officially diagnosed w/this condition, but I'm convinced that it is a legitimate condition that could necessitate professional help.

General Anxiety Disorder

I do have a diagnosis of a general anxiety disorder. What distinguishes this condition from typical worries is its chronic nature. Secondly, it's also characterized by obsessive worry, especially about things that we have no control over . . . especially those things that under normal circumstances wouldn't cause us too much mental energy. I have found that the anxiety & depression work hand-in-hand. They feed off each other.

O.C.D.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder can accompany depression & anxiety. Extreme cases include symptoms such as obsessive hand-washing; arranging & re-arranging personal items repeatedly, such as the items on one's desk, dresser, etc.; compulsive behaviors, such as following a very specific morning routine, evening routine, eating routines; turning helpful habits, such as exercise, "quiet time," etc., into obsessions that MUST be performed the same way every day, day-in & day-out. It's linked to anxiety because falling back on routines can be a way of dealing w/anxiety. It can be linked to depression when obsessions become so dominant that there's no long any comfort in them.

Mental Health & Physical Health

There is solid research to back-up the link between mental health & physical health, also confirmed by my own experience. Depression can amplify physical complaints, such as feeling more aches & pains than usual. Illness & injury can contribute to a cycle of depression. I was diagnosed w/Influenza A a little over a week ago, & a debilitating symptom has been a sometimes violent cough, which is carving into my sleep. Sleep, or lack of it, enters the equation. A lack of quality sleep contributes to depression. I can't get a good night's sleep, because I'm awakened every night by several episodes of coughing. That creates mental & physical fatigue, which leads to more depression & anxiety. 

Also, chronic health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, joint pain, severe headaches also become exacerbated by depression--creating more unhealthy "loops" that make it difficult to cope.

Spiritual Health

Our physical & mental health are strongly connected to our spiritual health. If a person doesn't feel right with God, it's hard to feel good about his or her physical & mental well-being. It's important to remember that Jesus loves us regardless of how we feel towards Him. Attending to a daily spiritual health habit helps us strengthen wholeness among our physical & mental health issues. For me a daily quiet time has become hugely significant for my overall health. My quiet time--which I am NOT suggesting is the one right or best way to approach better spiritual health--includes prayer, scripture, devotional reading, & meditation. I try to compartmentalize it into an hour first thing in the morning, lest it become a OCD behavior.

CAVEAT:  Seeking greater spiritual health for the sake of greater mental & physical health is NOT a healthy attitude. Scripture promises amazing blessings when we spend time in Word, prayer, worship, devotion, but the purpose is to let the Lord guide us in our walk here on earth. When I start thinking that my physical & mental health aren't getting better because of something lacking in my spiritual health, I have turned the focus from Christ & His work in me to me & my work on behalf of my relationship w/my Lord & Savior. Does this make sense? [I feel like I better start wrapping thing up, because it seems to me that today's post has become somewhat (very?) rambling.]

Other Healthy Strategies

• Usually, but not always, medication can ease mental illness. However, psychotropic meds are strong stuff & should not be used w/o supervision by a qualified mental health provider. Natural supplements & remedies? Ditto that.
• Diet is hugely under-utilized in the treatment of mental illness. [This is one of my downfalls.] A healthy diet contributes to physical health which contributes to mental health. 
• Exercise is repeated over & over again in the literature re:  strategies for better mental health. Among other things, it can help us cope with anxiety, which in turn helps us cope with depression.
• Therapy. A mental health therapist can be a god-send, as he or she helps guide us to the roots of our depression & anxiety and helps us see options for a healthier lifestyle.
• Service. Speaking from experience, depression can cause a person to become very, very self-centered. It's easy for me to see everything in relationship to ME. By focusing on the needs of others, we can help turn the focus from inward to outward. Those "others" definitely include our spouse, children, grand-children, but can encompass service on behalf of others. For example, volunteering at a rescue mission, food pantry, humanitarian organization, etc., can all have a salutary effect on our hearts & minds.

Today's blog appears to be first of all the act of journaling, which I have consistently found to be helpful in treating my own mental health symptoms. Secondly, you may see yourself in some of what I've written, which may lead you to seek professional help or which may confirm for you some positive steps that you're taking.

Road Trip Odyssey: Minnesota + Mayo Clinic

DISCLAIMER:  This blog entry is primarily for the purpose of:

1. Journaling, as a way to help me cope w/my anxiety & depression.
2. Educational, as it may be of some benefit to those w/similar health issues.
3. Entertaining? Not in my opinion. Continue at your own risk.

It's SUN 1/28, & I'm at Nathan & Laura's in Eagan. They just left for church. Lois left a little earlier. I'm skipping church because of my continued coughing fits, associated w/Influenza.

• I am very grateful to Nathan & Laura for their hospitality. Their location in Eagan, less than 2 hours from Mayo Clinic in Rochester, helped make my visit to the Executive Health Program possible. 
• I am also very grateful to my beloved spouse. Lois drove to Eagan on FRI 1/26, at least partly to bring my medicines. My unanticipated, extended appointments, tests, procedures, etc., led me to start running out of my medicines, both OTC & prescription. Some medicines aren't a big deal if I run short. Some, however, warn of dire consequences should I stop taking them abruptly. Who could ask for a better spouse?

Speaking of the Flu

I tested positive for Influenza A last week FRI 1/19. My original symptoms included a fever, achiness(sp?), fatigue, & a very pernicious cough. I did a 5-day course of tamiflu, finishing last TUE 1/23. I haven't noticed any more fever, but I've continued to have fatigue, some achiness, & that pernicious cough that is especially troubling overnight. I really haven't gotten a decent night's sleep in well over a week. Then I become overcome w/fatigue & sleepiness later in the morning, later in the afternoon, & early evening. I've been able to nap, which probably isn't helping my sleep cycle.

Executive Health Program

Two exercise tests resulted in the need for an angiogram, which I had last WED 1/24. The angiogram confirmed that I have an 80% blockage in the largest artery servicing the heart. The recommendation is for me to have a stint, but I will wait until I get back to Norfolk before I start that ball rolling.

Based on my conversations w/cardiologists + my managing physician, I expect that besides a heart procedure, I will be making some significant lifestyle changes. I expect to begin cardiac rehab immediately after the procedure. I'm being encouraged to begin a Mediterranean diet. I have no arguments with any of these 3 courses of action, but I could kick myself for letting my physical health deteriorate to the point where this has all become a necessity, not an option.

I have 3 more appt's this MON-TUE, 1/29-30.

• Sleep consultation. Based on an overnite sleep evaluation--I had to use a monitor; didn't have to get all wired up for a full sleep apnea evaluation--I am expecting to be told that I need to start using a CPAP. I do not WANT to start using a CPAP, but I will try to keep an open mind.
• Consultation w/endocrinologist to discuss my diabetes treatment.
• Consultation w/a nephrologist re:  kidney function, which is not what it should be, probably due to a combination of factors, including my Diabetes Type 2 & medications I've been taking.

After a final consultation w/the physician managing my program, I'll return to Norfolk this next TUE 1/30.

Road Trip Interregnum

Worst States, Best States

You've tired, I'm sure, of my endlessly fascinating road trip entries. Just in case you've grown a little jaded--because I can tell you that I have--I've decided to "refocus" today. I continue clipping newsletter articles which "tickle my fancy," intending to offer my incisive, albeit occasionally sophomoric commentary. Ditto re:  snippets gleaned from on-line news & commentary, such as the Drudge Report.

And thus we find ourselves this SAT 1/27 placing some data under the LCBL * microscope for my expert analysis &--I am quite certain--your pondering.
* Leckband Cornhusker Blog Lite

SOURCE:  1/27 DailyMail.com via Drudge Report, "Worst states to live in."

Worst states to live, based on surveys of residents:

• Illinois, 21-25% of residents identify themselves as "unhappy" with their state. [Sorry, Kyle & Tasha.] NOTE:  Lois & I lived in Chicago from 1975-1980. It's a nice place to be from."
• Other Top 5 worst states:  Connecticut, Rhode Island, Louisiana, Mississippi [17-20% of residents identified their states as "worst states to live in"]

Best states to live [1-2% of residents described their states as "worst possible"]

• Colorado [Way to go, Jocelyn & Josh!]
• Texas [Way to go, David & Carmen + Katie!]
• Minnesota [Way to go, Nathan & Laura!]
• Iowa [Way to go, Mark & Christy, Jesse & Christal!]
• Other states:  Utah, Wyoming, North Dakota, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, Maine NOTE #1:  We have no objections to any of these states. We've visited UT, WY, ND, WI on vacation. The Virgil Leckband's trace their ancestry to Northwest IA.

Best states to live [3-4% of residents described their states as "worst possible"]

• Florida [Way to go Kathy, Nick & Jess, Jerry & Anita & Lia!]
• Nebraska [Way to go Rachel & Derek, Craig & Sarah, Matt & Carolyn, LOIS + ME!] NOTE:  Yeah, yeah, tell me about your weather, Florida. I suppose hurricanes & frozen iguanas falling out of trees beat normal people.

Best state to live [5-6% of residents described their states as "worst possible"]

• California [Way to go John + Wanda, Teresa + Blake, Kory & Erose!]  NOTE:  We've been to CA several times on vacation. You are blessed w/wonderful weather [with the exception maybe of torrential rains, mudslides, massive wildfires] & amazing, awesome scenery. Too bad you are ruled by "not normal" people.
• North Carolina [Way to go, John + Lori!] NOTE:  We were in NC for John's official retirement, which included a fun trip to the beach.
• Arizona [Way to go, Chris + Megan!] NOTE:  We've been to AZ to visit family & attend a retreat. Beautiful state worthy of multiple bucket list trips.

No data available:  Washington, D.C. [Sorry, Lynae!] We've been there for family reunions. Lots of history. Lots of, no, make that gazillions of cars forming epic gridlocks all over the area. And you are ruled by "not normal" people.

Road Trip Day XII: MN Odyssey

FLU + ANGIOGRAM + MORE APPTS + MORE DOWNTIME

Where was I? Sorry, but I let myself run out of steam since returning to Mayo Clinic this past MON 1/22. And my road trip numbering system has changed at least 3 times. Here's what I'm using as a standard. I originally left Norfolk on MON 1/15. Today is FRI 1/26. This would seem to make today Road Trip Day XII . . . & there are a few days left to go. [Is this becoming a personal record-setting road trip for me?]

Last week, based on 2 exercise tests, it was determined that I should have an angiogram to confirm whether or not I have a blockage in one of the arteries in my heart. Then I was diagnosed with Influenza Type A, so my whole schedule got messed with this week, as did my thought processes. I am pretty sure that the Influenza has made it difficult for me to think as clearly, read with as much focus, keep my blog at least somewhat up-to-date. Or maybe it's been the frequently dosages of cough medicine that have knocked me for a loop. And then of course is the ever-present cough--possibly the worst that I can remember. It's keeping me from sleeping very well. I go to sleep okay, but beginning around 12:30a--like clockwork every night--I start waking up because of a coughing fit. This lasts maybe 5-10 minutes, after which I fall back into a restless sleep. Then the cycle repeats itself. But I digress. Here's my road trip journal for this past week.

MON 1/22:  It turned out that all I had to do on Monday was donate more blood. In this case I think it had something to do w/the upcoming angiogram . . . 

TUE 1/23:  . . . Which couldn't be done on Tuesday, because I had just finished my tamiflu treatment. Although the cardiologist felt that it was probably safe for me to have the angiogram, she decided that it would be better to push it back one more day. This became the one day of my Mayo odyssey when I had absolutely 0 appointments, tests, procedures, consultations. Ordinarily this would be a day to lay around, read, watch TV, Facebook, & eat & eat & eat. If there's an upside to this flu, it's that I've pretty much lost my appetite. My lack of focus made it difficult to get some of those other things done. And I did find time for a couple of naps.

WED 1/24:  Nathan drove down from Eagan, picked me up from the Grand Kahler Hotel, & delivered me to St. Mary's Campus for my angiogram. For those of you who need a primer, it works like this. A tube is inserted in the groin or wrist--for me it was the right wrist--& threaded up into the heart. A contrast dye is injected. [Disappointingly, one doesn't get to choose his own color.] The doctors watch the contrast work its way to & through the heart, which confirms whether there are any blockages. 

Things went pretty fast. I was checked in by 8:30, in the OR before 9:00, & back in recovery before 11:00a. I was checked out & on my way by 2:30. Besides getting poked by needles in various parts of of both arms, the procedure was pretty much painless. The nurse brought me a peanut butter & jelly sandwich while I was in recovery. I must say that it was the most delicious meal I had since sometime earlier last week.

Nathan had to stay w/me overnight into THU morning, since there is a "1 in 1,000 chance" that bleeding will occur at the site where the tube is inserted. Given this is an artery, it would NOT be good to suffer massive blood loss during the night. I also was told that I couldn't lift more than 5 lbs w/my right arm & had to avoid pushing, pulling, lifting, etc.

THU 1/25:  Nathan left for home after it was determined that I was awake & alive. * What followed yesterday was another pretty laid-back routine.

• I managed to get a test moved from next WED back one day, which means I can leave for home one day earlier than had been scheduled.
• I downloaded an application to plug into a video-conferencing site & worked w/tech services to make sure everything was ready for a video-conference this morning. [Note to self:  Must remember to shave, wash hair, dress appropriately.]
• I had a very informative if somewhat sober consultation w/the cardiologist, who explained why I needed a stent [80% blockage in 1 artery] & how lifestyle changes could get me back on the road to heart health. [Did I SAY that I was fat & out-of-shape? With slovenly eating habits & bad attitude? Okay, no use denying it. Guilty as charged.]
• Once again I had to donate blood, this time to see what effect the contrast dye had on my kidneys. The cardiologist told me that she would call me on FRI w/the results.

* I'm sorry IF this seems irreverent. I'm trying to be succinct.

FRI 1/26:  At 8:30 this morning I have a video-conference w/Dr. Mikhail, the physician managing my Executive Health Program. After that's finished, I can get my stuff together, load the car, & head to the Twin Cities. My plan is to drive to the M.O.A. & do some clothes shopping. [MN does not charge sales tax on clothing items.] Then I'll head over to Nathan & Laura's. Lois is driving up from Norfolk. 

No plans for SAT. Hah! Who am I kidding? There will be lots of grandson/grand-mother interaction. Since I'm still coughing like a crazy man, my interaction, sadly, will probably be limited. 

SUN 1/28:  Lois heads back to Nebraska. I head back to Rochester.

MON 1/29:  I have an "ultrasound of abdominal vessel," follow-up consultation, & dermatology consult.  

TUE 1/30:  Two last appointments, including a diabetes consultation. Should be done by early afternoon, then it's back to Norfolk.

DISCLAIMER:  My blog today is functioning as a journal, mostly for my consumption, not yours. I cannot, therefore apologize for the interminable yet tedious narrative.

Road Trip Odyssey Day 7

Snexting + My Boring Yet Tedious Health Survey + Casey's Biscuits & Gravy Reign Unchallenged

This road trip is sure to qualify for legendary status. I'm back at the Mayo Clinic. The symptoms of my Influenza A seem to be abating. My schedule of appointments & procedures has been in flux since 1st thing this morning. And it's been snowing all day.
Where to begin . . . where to begin . . . 

Snexting *

Rochester has been experiencing a snow event since early this morning. The snow has continued throughout the day. It's 4:50p (CST), & it looks like the snow showers are over. Lois just texted me a couple of pictures of our front & back yards. There's a sheet of snow that's encroaching on our back yard patio. It looks like a glacier is steadily advancing toward the house. She can't get out the back door . . . And the driveway & front walk are buried in snow, too. She'll need Derek, our esteemed son-in-law, to plow her out before she's going anywhere tomorrow. The first area school just cancelled for tomorrow, & I'm thinking local schools will follow suit. **
* snow texting
** And she just texted me to let me know that school is cancelled tomorrow, as well.

Paul's Quick & Easy Health Survey *

* If this is when you decide that once again my entry has been much too self-involved, stop reading. Nobody will notice. And of course you know that you can just send a "like" & pretend that you read today's blog, thus fooling me into thinking that you actually read it. **
** Of course, I'll recognize your gambit, but that's okay.

• Influenza A. I received this diagnosis last FRI morning at a CVS Pharmacy Minute-Clinic. Since then I've been on tamiflu X 2 per day. I don't seem to be running much of a fever anymore. This diagnosis caused Mayo to push back my angiogram from today to WED.
• Coughing. It has been a long time since I had a cough this bad. It basically kept me up at Nathan & Laura's over the weekend. Last night was a little better. I'd say that I got 4 hours of sleep.
• I have 2 kinds of cough medicine, & I've been trading off sometimes during the day & always at night. Once I get started coughing while laying in bed, I can't find a position that diminishes the attack.
• And the cough sounds like a loudly, puttering, motorboat engine.
• Sleeping. Because of my spotty schedule today, I've been able to curl up for a couple of naps, & neither time resulted in a coughing fit that jolted me awake. I am encouraged. I am emboldened to think that tonight' sleep will go better.
• Blood sugar has been consistently too high, but this is expected because I've had to be off my diabetic meds more often than not.
• Appetite. I have regained some will to eat. I tried a solid brunch this morning, courtesy of the Mayo Clinic Patient Cafeteria. The fruit cup--watermelon & cantaloupe--was fine. The biscuit & gravy was a little bland. On the WPBS * [* Whiny Paul Blank Scale], it measured 3.5. It was my own fault. I should have noticed that what looked like milk gravy was actually wallpaper paste-based.]
• Executive Health Lounge. Fortunately the Mayo Executive Health Program Lounge provides a limited yet not terribly deficient supply of snacks, food, & beverage items--all at no cost! So for breakfast I had a bottle of apple juice. For a mid-afternoon snack I had yogurt. Coffee & soft drinks are available, as are breakfast bars, oatmeal, trail mix, deli-style wraps, string cheese, & more.
• Supper. I will feast on Health Choice Splendiferous Vegetable Medley Soup & a Sprite. 

Mayo Schedule

1. I checked in for a blood draw @ 7:15. They forgot to send my registration info to the nurse's station, so I waited for an hour until I checked. Good think I did, or I might still be waiting there.
2. After the blood draw I headed to the next department but was told that my appointment had been rescheduled to later this week, due to my rescheduled heart procedure. 
3. Time for patient education * [* Or in my case patient patient education.] My angiogram was explained thoroughly to me, & I watched an instructive video [What it lacked in character development it made up for with witty dialogue & realistic yet mundane plot development.]
4.  Leisure time. Between this & my last scheduled appointment, I had time to go back to my hotel room & nap, then head back to the executive health lounge for yogurt & a latte', do a little reading, take a power nap.
5. Surprise! When I checked in for my 4:15 appt w/the physician who is managing my program, I was told that I did NOT have an appointment. I requested that my schedule be re-confirmed, & it turned out that once again an appointment had been rescheduled for later this week.
6. No harm. No foul. We got a new, 100%, super-accurate schedule reprinted for me.
7. As of 5:30p on MON 1/22, I have nothing scheduled on TUE 1/23. My cardiac lab procedure is scheduled for WED. I have a follow-up w/my cardiologist on THU, & another follow-up w/the physician who is managing my program on FRI.
8. Hopefully, I will be a welcome guest at the Nathan & Laura Twin Cities Lodge over the weekend.
9. On MON 1/29, I have an "ultrasound of abdominal vessel," then a consultation of ambiguous intentions, followed by a dermatology consult.
10. Just one consultation of ambiguous intentions scheduled for TUE 1/30.
11. My last--I hope--consultation is with a diabetic specialist (endocrinologist?) on WED . . . & then it's back to snow-laden Nebraska.

Thanks for your patience. If you stuck w/this entry all the way from start-to-finish, you qualify for a drawing for newspaper clippings that I still think are blog-worthy but I haven't found a way to fit them into an entry yet. Just send me a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Include $10 for S & H.

A Sunday Meditation

I have a confession to make. I am staying home from church this morning. I don't feel good about it, especially since I'm at Nathan, Laura, & Calvin's, but I was diagnosed w/Influenza A last FRI, & my conclusion was that it was better for me to try to stifle the threat of my plague as much as possible. Plus, I'm just not feeling very chipper. I'm still running a fever off & on, & my cough--which kept me up all night--would be majorly distracting to others. 

I saved my church bulletin from Grace Norfolk last SUN 1/14, when we observed the 2nd SUN of Epiphany. My SUN meditation today consists of excerpts from last SUN's worship.

Prayer/Hymn (sung to the tune of LSB 836)

"Hope of the world, Thou Christ of great compassion; speak to our fearful hearts by conflict rent. Save us, Thy people, from consuming passion, who by our own false hopes and aims are spent.

"Hope of the world, God's gift from highest heaven, bringing to hungry souls that bread of life, still let Thy Spirit unto us be given to heal earth's wounds and end our bitter strife."

Confession & Absolution

"O Lord of might and mercy, Who made us to hope for life in You, we confess that we have sought hope in ourselves instead and stolen hope from our neighbors. We have sinned against what You command and against what You create. Our selfishness has closed our hearts, our ears and eyes and hands, to Your Word of truth and love. As we have no hope apart from your grace, forgive us and redeem us for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen.

"O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with Him is plentiful redemption. He will redeem Israel from all his iniquities. Christ Jesus died for your trespasses and rose for your justification. Upon this your confession, and under His authority, I, as a called ad ordained servant of Christ, forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

From the Old Testament Reading found in Jeremiah 29

"For I know the plans i have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. The you will call upon Me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek Me and find Me, when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you declares the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile."

From the Epistle Reading found in 1 Peter 3:15-22

"For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil. For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit . . . Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal "of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to Him."

From the Gospel Reading found in Matthew 12:9-21

"'Behold My servant whom I have chosen, My beloved with whom My soul is well pleased. I will put My Spirit upon Him, and He will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. He will not quarrel or cry aloud, nor will anyone hear His voice in the streets; a bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not quench, until He bring justice to victory; and in His name the Gentiles will hope."

Sermon Prayer/Hymn (sung to the tune of "Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus")

"When distress and trouble grieve us, bringing illness, storm or loss, may we, patiently enduring, bear with faithfulness the cross. As we, Lord, receive Your mercy, May we then Your mercy share, giving comfort, hope, & are. For this work may we be nourished, as our hearts to love are stirred, by Your supper and Your Word.

Offering Prayer/Hymn (sung to the tune of "Be Still, My Soul")

"My God, my God, come near, let there be life where death, decay, and danger bring us strife, where storms rush in and towers crush and fall, where chaos kills, Christ lay o'er us a pall. Let brothers, sisters, answer mercy's call; Lord let Your precious grace be all in all!"

This morning's listless blog entry

I hadn't originally planned to do my blog today, but here's the situation.

I really don't feel well enough to put much time & effort into today's entry. I really don't feel poorly enough to abandon my efforts entirely.

By WED night I had developed a pretty nasty cough. I did NOT get a good night's sleep. My symptoms got progressively worse throughout the day on THU, which made my two exercise tests a real joy. By the time I left for Nathan & Laura's, I could tell that something more than just a bad cough was working up. I didn't get a good night's sleep on THU night either. On FRI morning I went to a minute clinic at a CVS store. My diagnosis was Influenza A. Despite having had a flu shot in early fall, this flu strain apparently was not easily deterred.

So I left the CVS pharmacy with Tylenol, OTC cough medicine & tamiflu. At about 2:30 this morning I started cough badly & finally gave up. I came upstairs & laid down on the couch, where I could prop myself up better than I could in bed. Eventually I fell back asleep. I took my meds this morning. The most vexing symptom continues to be the cough.

Also yesterday (FRI) I got a call from the cardiac unit at Mayo. I had been alerted that this was the most likely outcome of 2 exercise tests whose results had indicated that I might have a minor blockage or two. Now I'm scheduled to have a angiogram on MON 1/22. I haven't really read up on this procedure yet, but from what the cardiologist & her nurse told me yesterday, it sounds like a minimally invasive procedure. I was already headed back to Mayo for several test & consultations that got pushed back by the extra exercise test. So I'll have the angiogram on MON morning, followed by some of those additional appointments on MON afternoon or TUE, but I can't see the cardiologist to go over the results until THU. As you can imagine, this really messed up my plans for the week.

On the one hand, I'm grateful that I had the tests, which revealed partial blockages, & I'm grateful that I'm having an angiogram on MON in order to check for further problems. On the other hand, I am a little anxious about the whole situation, & the flu isn't helping me think clearly.

One big question I have but won't get answered until I check in on MON morning is this. How will be flu diagnosis after the timetable for the procedure & follow-up?

Flu & Heart News

Road Trip Odyssey Part IV

My road trip involving the Mayo Clinic is on hiatus while I visit Nathan, Laura, & Calvin. Back to Mayo on SUN 1/21. Thursday turned into a pretty hectic day, because they kept squeezing in extra tests & consultations that hadn't originally been planned.

• Exercise Test:  I could tell that I was laboring much harder than was good. Sure enough . . .  the cardiologists saw evidence of a blockage or partial blockage, so I had a 2nd exercise test, which confirmed her suspicions. More on that later.
• Audiogram/Hearing Test:  I have hearing loss that is typical of those who worked around heavy machinery or who play music in their cars at decibel levels that would make a jet airliner proud. However, the hearing specialist said that my kind of hearing loss, which is pretty common, doesn't necessarily respond well to a hearing aid. He did suggest that I try a hearing aid for 30 days to see if it helped. We'll see.
• I had another exercise test. That's right . . . 2 in one day. Not only that, but in order to check out of the Grand Kahler Hotel & make it to the next appointment, I had to take 2 rolling suitcases to the car in the parking ramp, drive down to the curbside outside the hotel, scamper back up to my room on the 8th floor, bring the rest of my luggage down, then park in the parking garage again before hurrying back to the Mayo Bldg.
• The cardiologist felt that her initial finding confirmed a possible blockage. More on that later.
• I had my Executive Wellness Program exit interview w/Dr. Mikhail, who was my managing physician. He went over all of tests & consultations thoroughly & hinted that cardiology would most likely be in touch with me for another follow-up. 
• I finally left around 5:00, stopped to get a hamburger from McD's, & pulled into Nathan & Laura's driveway just minutes after 7:00. Calvin seems happy to see me.

While all this was transpiring on THU, I was working on a painful cough, which had started the evening before. I pretty much lost my voice, & didn't sleep most of the night. This cough was one of the worst I've ever had. More on that later.

This morning (FRI 1/19) I got a phone call from my cardiologist who shared her concern about the results of my exercise tests. Basically, she wanted to follow-up on MON with an angiogram. She explained the procedure to me & noted that she wasn't able to meet w/me to go over the results until next THU 1/25.

My original plan was to head back to Rochester on SUN evening, finish my tests & consultations on MON, then drive to Jackson, MN. My intention was to visit my Uncle Royce & Cousin Dan in Lakefield on TUE, before heading back to Norfolk. Well, that plan has been altered. Now I'll have the angiogram on MON, have more consultations that I couldn't fit in last THU, then wait until I see the cardiologist on THU.

When was I planning to get back to my cough, you ask? I went to an urgent care in Eagan this morning & tested positive for Influenza A . . . ironic since I had a flu shot this year. I came back to Nathan & Laura's loaded down w/Tylenol, OTC cough medicine, & tamiflu. Hopefully this will resolve itself in the next few days. When I shared this result with the cardiologist's nurse, she felt that it shouldn't interfere w/my angiogram.

Meanwhile, I am thorough fatigued, not to mention depressed over this turn of events.

Road Trip Odyssey to Minnesota Part III

Today's Blog Is Family Friendly

Some Quiet Time Reflections

It' a little after 8:00a. I am in my room at the Grand Kahler Hotel in Rochester, MN, & I just finished my quiet time. Every morning I find things in my devotions, scriptures, & hymns that are timely. Some mornings this is especially true, & here are some thoughts.

From "Savior of the Nations, Come" (LSB #332), stanzas 1, 3, 4 

• "Savior of the nations, come, virgin's Son, make here Your home! Marvel now, O heav'n & earth, that the Lord chose such a birth.
• "Here a maid was found with child, yet remained a virgin mild. In her womb this truth was shown:  God was there upon His throne.
• "Then stepped forth the Lord of all from His pure & kingly hall; God of God, yet truly man, His heroic course began."

MY REFLECTIONS:  This is an Advent hymn, but it was part of my morning devotions from "Blessings & Prayers for Men," Concordia Publishing House. Jesus truly is the Savior of all nations. My work at Orphan Grain Train has really made this truth hit home for me. 

• The hymn triggered this thought:  Jesus had reigned in heaven from eternity. He lived in the presence of His Father's love & the joy & worship of the angels. Then He "stepped forth" from His "pure & kingly hall" & became a human baby--still God but also one of us. Jesus was no longer in the heavenly presence of His Father & the angels. That must have been a blow for them, but it must have been a blow for Jesus, as well.

From the Preface to the Christian Book of Concord, pp. 3-4.  

• " . . . the doctrine included in it (the Augsburg Confession) was both supported by firm testimonies of Scripture & approved by the ancient & accepted creeds . . . We (the thousands who signed off on the AC) conclude that nothing more agreeable could happen or should be sought more eagerly & prayerfully from almighty God than the following:  (a) both our churches & our schools should persevere in the pure doctrine of God's Word & in that longed-for & godly oneness of mind . . . "

MY REFLECTIONS:  Many have the misconception that Lutherans prize their confessional writings more than scripture. No. We do, however, subscribe to them. I've learned or re-learned from Concordia-The Lutheran Confessions (CPH) how much time was spent by our forefathers in thoroughly searching the scriptures, writing up draft after draft of our confessional teachings, discussing them, revising them, & ultimately agreeing on them . . . & not without great sacrifice from them. More than a few were severely persecuted & even martyred because they refused to back down from these confessions. 

• Even yet today our ordained & commissioned ministers of the Word--& that would include myself, as a commissioned teacher (emeritus) in the LCMS--affirm in our public testimony that we hold completely to the truths in the Lutheran Confessions, including the Augsburg Confession, since these truths are thoroughly & properly grounded in Holy Scripture. 
• The comment made about "our schools" reinforces for me the need for & blessings of Lutheran schools, since public schools cannot espouse the truths found in scripture. Parents would do well to consider enrolling their children in Lutheran schools if for no other reason that those who serve in these schools are not only committed to the academic welfare of their children but also their eternal, spiritual welfare, as well.

One last thought . . . as I opened the curtains to my luxurious accommodations this sunny morning, I noticed for the first time the sign on the Marriott Hotel, which is directly across the street. The sign is big enough that I couldn't mistake it from my 8th floor perch. It reads:

• "Serving you with all our heart." There is a graphic of praying hands included on this sign.

I think that I remember hearing at some time previously that the Marriott hotel chain is or was owned by the Mormons. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is not a Christian church, but this sign & graphic still give testimony to what our Lord & Savior has called us to do.

• We are to love the Lord our God with all our hearts & with all our souls & with all our minds & with all our strength. AND we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves. And who is our neighbor? Jesus clearly taught that our neighbors are all people . . . "all" as in people of every race & culture. 
• This sign would make a good mission statement posted on our churches & schools.

Man (& Woman's) Best Friend

Lois shared this story with me on TUE night. We put Sammy in the kennel for the day--by "we" I mean almost always "me."--so when Lois was ready to go to school in the morning, she said, "Kennel!" Sammy dutifully went to his kennel. We always reward him with a treat when he goes into his kennel w/o any stink-eye. Feeling sorry for him, since she knew that she wouldn't get home until late, late afternoon, Lois put a chew bone into his kennel. He didn't move other than to look at her with what could best be described as incredulity. She pointed at the chew bone & said, "Look, Sammy!" He gave it a quick glance, then gave her that look again. Knowing that we usually just give him a bacon snack, she offered it to him & he quickly snapped it up. She directed his gaze back to the chew bone on the floor of his kennel, but he wasn't having any of it, so she closed the door & left.

She got home around 5:00-5:30 & immediately went to Sammy's kennel to let him out. He was already visibly excited to see her. * She unlatched the kennel & stepped back, as he joyfully shot out of his cell & jumped at her. She said, "Let's go," pointing to the living room. He started after her, thought better of it, went back to his kennel & grasped the chew bone in his canine canine's. He obviously had let it sit in his kennel, untouched, all day long. He promptly took it to the throw rug in the kitchen, which is where he ALWAYS chews on his bones inside the house, settled into a comfortable gnawing position & went at it. In fact, he started on his bone before he took off to the living room to try to leap on Lois who was reposing in her chair.

Of course, Lois concluded. He doesn't DO chew bones in the kennel. He only does them on his favorite throw rug in the kitchen. That's why he left his bone untouched all day long. That's why he wouldn't touch his bone in the kennel. That's why he cocked his head [you know how dogs do] when she offered him the bone when he got into the kennel.
* Just for the record, "my" dog is actually Lois', the Dog Whisperer's, dog.

Conclusion #1:  Sammy possesses an incredible sense of self-discipline.

Conclusion #2:  Sammy has a case of COCDBD. *

* Canine obsessive compulsive dog bone disorder.

Today's Road Trip

• My first stop at 9:30a this morning was at the Executive Health Plan desk, where I picked up the "hardware" to do any overnight, do-it-yourself sleep test tonight The data will be read at the clinic tomorrow, & before I leave for the day, I'll have a consultation.
• My second & most awe-full appointment was for my colonoscopy. If you were expecting details, you will be sadly disappointed . . . And I would have to scold you for your prurient interests in my intestinal health.
• They did give me an understated yet functional gown with a charming print pattern that was obviously meant to obfuscate gender identification; & which I had to wear under my robe. My instructions were to leave the print gown unfastened in the back.
• When I got to the procedure room, I asked what would have happened if I showed up in the procedure room with my gown snapped together in back. Would I be severely reprimanded & forced to go immediately back to my hotel, do the prep treatment for the 2nd day in a row, & have my colonoscopy rescheduled for the next day? I was assured that they were not that anal * about those instructions, since it only involved one snap.

* That may be a poor choice of words in this circumstance.

Tomorrow's Trek

This is where my OCD is kicking in, so please bear with me. Also, as I've reminded my readers many, many times, it's my blog. You can always find another less intellectual, less entertaining blog to replace me.

• 7:45a:  Exercise Test
• 8:45a:  Cardiac Consultation
• 9:50a:  Audiogram/Hearing Test
• Lunch break w/real lunch food!
• 10:45:  Consultation (why??)
• 1:15:p Office visit (why??)
• 3:05:  Dermatology Consultation
• 4:15:  Return visit w/my executive health program physician
• Hit the road for Eagan, home of my almost 2-yr-old grandson Calvin, my daughter-in-law, & my son, for a long weekend visit. [SIDEBAR:  My son drove all the way down from the Twin Cities today, so he could be my official "companion," which is required for a colonoscopy victim after he's released back into the general population of the Mayo Clinic.

A Road Trip Odyssey Day II: A Temp Challenge + GOMER Returns

NOTE:  This blog entry contains material of a graphic nature & may not be suitable for younger readers.

Here I am, sitting in my plush 8th floor room in the Grand Kahler Hotel, sipping, no, make that gulping, as directed, the tasty solution that I've been given in preparation for my--& I don't know any other way of euphemizing * this procedure--colonoscopy, scheduled to begin at 10:15 tomorrow. More on that--maybe--later.
* If that's not a real word, it should be, & I want credit for it.

Today's tests, consultations, & other appointments went very well. Unfortunately, I woke up before 4:00a, & couldn't bet back to sleep. [I was so excited about my colonoscopy tomorrow.] I finally gave up & got up at 5:00 & began my morning routine. My first appt was a chest x-ray at 7:00a. My last appointment was a wellness consultation, which got over around 4:30p.

A Trek

After I picked up this charming beverage [vintage 2018, if I'm not mistaken], I went back to my room, mixed up the solution, & stuck it in the refrigerator--part of my deluxe accommodations. *
* Actually, they did upgrade my room to a king size bed. The room I was scheduled for is part of a renovation. I have a TV [which I haven't turned on yet], microwave, fridge, coffee maker, & two quaint additions that date this hotel. There is a bottle opener fastened to the door frame inside the bathroom. There is a pull-out clothesline which you, well, pull out & across the top of the bath & shower stall. Remember when the only amenities to be found in hotel rooms were clean sheets? But I digress . . . 

Because of the sub-arctic blast we've been experiencing [We were in a wind chill warning for much of the day. More on that later.] I thought that it behooved me to head over to the parking garage & drive my sports car--& who's to say that it's not?--around, if for no other reason that to make sure the battery wasn't dead. The good news? The car started just fine & I drove it to the top of the parking garage & back down just to be sure. The bad news?

On my way to the car I walked right past it w/o noticing it at the end of Level 3 & meandered--in the frigid temperatures--all the way to the end of Level 4 before back-tracking & finding it. Secondly, it turns out that you have to exit all the way down to ground level, pay, then return. Meanwhile, the inside of the car approximated the outside temp, which my car's thermometer registered at 2 above zero. Next, after fumbling around for a credit card that the automated cashier would accept, I drove around the block. I drove around several blocks. I couldn't find my way back.

Meanwhile, the car is still excruciating cold, & I finally had to pull over & put in the coordinates. That led me back to the parking garage. I had to park at the end of Level 4, which was a full level away from the entrance to the Grand Kahler Hotel. By the time I got back to the room, I was thinking I might have to schedule an appointment tomorrow w/the MCFBD. *
* Mayo Clinic Frostbite Department **
** My fingers thawed out, so no appt was necessary, &, yes, I was wearing gloves while I was outside, but I had to keep taking them off & putting them back on while I fiddled w/my credit cards, map app, key card . . . But yet again I digress . . . 

Pardon me while I freshen my drink . . . Aaah. Hey, this stuff isn't as bad as the stuff I remember from last time. One glass to go, & then I can mix up the solution for tomorrow morning & put it in the fridge. *
* Inquisitive minds might be wondering if I got those directions right. Yes, I did. I have to repeat the process tomorrow morning, starting at 7:00a.

License Plate Update

A bonus at having to spend way more time walking & driving in the parking garage than I had planned was the opportunity to add more license plates to my score sheet. I added CA, AZ, GA, MA, MD. At this rate, between Lois & me, we might have all the states covered by this fall. [We finished 2017 two states short:  Hawaii & Rhode Island. I'm keeping my fingers crossed . . . metaphorically, since Lutherans don't believe in luck.]

Weather Report

When I got up this morning, I knew we were in a wind chill advisory most of the day, so I decided to do a quick Leckband Temp Check, & I was shocked by the results. Based on data from the NOAA at 5:21a, (CST):  #7, Garrison, IA, 3/wind chill -11 . . . #6, Eagan, MN, 1/-16 . . . #5, Rochester, 2/-18 . . .  #4, Beatrice, NE, 1/-18 . . . #3, Lincoln, 0/-18 . . . #2, Norfolk, NE, -3/-25 . . . #1, Ventura, IA, -5/-28. So, Garrison, IA, you were the Balmiest Leckband this morning at 3/-11! * Norfolk could only muster a 2nd place finish at -3/-25. * Ventura took home the (frozen) bacon. *
* It sucks to be you.

G.O.M.E.R. *

* Grumpy Old Men & Their Eloquent Rants

Because of the instructions I received in the mail, I had to begin prepping for my 10:15 procedure already last evening. For supper I had Ritz crackers. Since I got up this morning I've had one apple juice & 3 cups of chicken broth. Fortunately, I can drink all the coffee I desire, as long as I don't sully it with cream. *
* If they would have had gatorade in the coolers in the Executive Health Lounge, I could have had that, too. On the upside, it's only fair to let you know that all the food & beverages in the lounge are free. **
** On the other hand, I had to turn up my nose at a delectable array of mouthwatering salads & deli sandwiches. AND I had to watch other patient sitting in the lounge, scarfing down the free food, taunting me . . . I think. ***
*** I've begun hallucinating about the steak I'm going to have tomorrow night. This may be a side effect of the MoviPrep(c) or it may be entirely psychosomatic. 

So now I get to settle back, relax, & wait for the fun to begin. [I warned you about the graphic content in today's entry!] Maybe I'll do some channel-surfing. Aloha!

A Road Trip Odyssey

Featuring the Latest, Wildly Fascinating Items +                      Commentary re:  My Road Trip to MN

I am in the luxurious Grand Kahler International Hotel in downtown Rochester, MN, just across the street from both the Mayo Clinic & Gonda buildings. Tomorrow (TUE 1/16) I begin my Executive Health Program 2018, promptly at 7:00a with a chest x-ray.

Before the morning is over, I will have enjoyed tests, procedures, & consultations, including--besides the chest x-ray--bone mineral density [Not worried. Many people are sure that I'm dense, maybe overly so.], electrocardiogram, review of medical information, blood collection & tests, and ultrasound of abdominal vessel [Never heard of it. * ].
* For the record, I DO know what an ultrasound is. I'm counting on one of my sisters-in-law and/or a niece to get back to me about the latter.

The afternoon is a little bit lighter:  eye exam, pharmacy consult, wellness consultation. [Also personal business, including a newspaper hunt + license plate expedition. SEE below.]

Travel + Weather

• When I got up this morning at 6:00a, in Norfolk, NE, the air temp was 0. I forgot to check the wind chill. Considering we were in a wind chill warning, I'm thinking it was really, really cold. By the time I left @ 8:30a, the air temp had dropped to -2. Again--duh--I forgot to check the wind chill.
• Here's the temp travel log [no wind chills to share]:  When I got to Sioux City @ 10:10a, it was -3 . . . -4 at Le Mars, IA, at 10:45 [Have you ever been to the Ice Cream Visitors Center? It's been awhile for me, but it was always a favorite stop when we took the kids to visit my grand-parents in Northwest IA.] . . . -6 at Sheldon, IA at 11:45. [I recorded that temp for the sake of my niece & her family. They know why.] . . . -8 at noon in Worthington,MN, where I got onto I-90 for the trek across southern MN {Slogan:  We are a state of scenic drives, including Southern MN, if you like windmill farms & one or two frozen lakes."] . . . -5 at Fairmont, 1:10p. I filled up the car & in 5 minutes started getting frostbite--as far as you know . . . When I finally had a chance to check temp & wind chill at the hotel this afternoon at 4:35, it was 2/-20.
• I just talked to Lois on the phone (6:10p), & the wind chill is -32 in Norfolk. [I encouraged her to do a Temp Challenge, but she is not always submissive to my will.]
• Roads were clear of ice & snow pack until I got into Rochester.
• There was a lot of ground blizzard activity along I-90, so more than once I had to slow down to 45 m.p.h. because of little to no visibility.
• SPECIAL WEATHER ANNOUNCEMENT [courtesy of Accuweather]:  My phone just informed me that Rochester is in a Wind Chill Advisory until TUE at noon. [Knock me over with a frozen feather.]

License Plate Update

• I lost my score sheet, so I had to start from scratch by writing down license plats on a piece of note paper. [Do you know how hard it is to write on a piece of note paper . . . while driving . . . in a ground blizzard? I can neither confirm nor deny that I have experience in this.]
• For the record, today I noted NE, IL, SD, WI, IA, MN, MO, WA, ID, CO, FL, NY . . . & I remembered seeing AK & PA in Norfolk.
• Also for the record:  Lois & I had already seen some of these plates in & around Norfolk.
• Tomorrow afternoon I think I'll drive the car around the parking garage, because I'm sure I can pick up more states. [I do this for fun . . . or maybe it's my OCD.]

Faux Pas *

* French for "blunder."
** Need I remind you that I'm multi-lingual? Technically, I don't, because it's my blog & I can make that claim w/o factual documentation.

• When I took a hike through the subway tunnel to do some scouting in the Mayo & Gonda Buildings, I left my key-card in the room. Fortunately, the young lady at the front desk was very nice about it & didn't even ask to see my driver's license.
• Ever been to one of those corn maizes? Ever wonder why P.E.T.R. [ You can understand why People for the Ethical Treatment of Rodents, except for the giant rodents in the Deadly(?) Forest [or is it Fire Swamp?] that almost kill Lesley & Buttercup in "The Princess Bride.]  That gives you an idea of trying to find your way around the Mayo & Gonda Buildings. *

* It's especially difficult for someone with me who has undiagnosed AOADHD. **
** adult onset ADHD ***
*** Knock knock. Who's there? ADHD. ADHD who? It's freezing outside!

• I took the wrong elevators & ended up on the wrong floors and/or bldgs at least 4X.
• I had to stop 3X & ask for directions . . . from women! 
• What should have been a 20-minute excursion at most turned into a 40-minute expedition.
• Tomorrow morning I'm hoping that when I leave the subway tunnel from the Grand Kahler Hotel, I'll remember to turn right & everything else will fall into place.
• Just in case, I am getting up 2 hours before my 1st appt & giving myself at least 30 minutes to find my way to the right desk.
• Wish me luck. *

* I know, I know. Lutherans don't believe in luck. Well, it's just an expression, OK?

A Sunday Meditation

Healing

A Short Text from Scripture

"Ask of Me, and I will make the nations Your heritage, and the ends of the earth Your possession." Psalm 2:8

Excerpt from "Martin Luther Psalm by Psalm"

" . . . we should believe that by the authority of the Father, Christ was appointed Lord over all things so that salvation depends on Him alone . . . For God the Father is not preaching here about garlic & onions. He delivers all things into the hands of the Son so that those who believe in Him might be saved, but those who do not believe will be lost & condemned. Therefore the world, Satan, & our heart should not alarm us. We are indeed afflicted & oppressed in various ways, but the Son of God preceded us in this very course." [My emphasis added] *

My Thoughts

There are quite a few friends & family members who are suffering from current illnesses, lingering sorrow, & long recoveries. My heart goes out to them. I won't pretend to fully understand what they are experiencing, but I know what gives me confidence & hope in my own physical & mental health challenges.

This passage, along with Martin Luther's meditation, does NOT promise immediate or permanent relief from such temporal, or earthly, challenges. It DOES promise that Jesus Christ, our Lord & Savior, reigns supremes over all things earthly & also all things spiritually. God allows misfortunes to test us, seeking to draw us closer to His Word & in our prayer-life. He would have us participate in weekly worship & regular devotions--not because they earn us brownie points with Him or function as some sort of magic to heal us--but because worship, prayer, & scripture draw us closer to Him & His promises. Worshiping alongside fellow believers increases our encouragement & increases their encouragement as well.

God blesses others, including YOU, so that we may in turn may be blessings to those we love . . . to our brothers & sisters in Christ.

My Prayer Thoughts **

When to our world the Savior came the sick and helpless heard His name, and in their weakness longed to see the healing Christ of Galilee.

That good physician! Night and day the people thronged about His way; and wonder ran from soul to soul, 'The touch of Christ has made us whole!'

His praises then were heard and sung by opened ears and loosened tongue, while lightened eyes could see and know the healing Christ of long ago.

His sovereign purpose still remains who rose in power, and lives and reigns; till every tongue confess His praise, the healing Christ of all our days."

My Additional Prayer

Lord, I pray for my loved ones that you would bring healing of body, mind, & soul into their lives & hearts. Deliver us from what oppresses us, according to Your many promises, including deliverance from our sins, our weak faith, our helplessness. I praise You for You came into this world to bring healing to lost souls, & You are still with us today to do the same. I pray in Your name. Amen.

* SOURCE:  Martin Luther Psalm by Psalm, "Victory Will Be Ours," a devotion for January 23 (Concordia Publishing House:  2017).
** SOURCE:  Adapted from the Lutheran Service Book, Hymn #841, "O Son of God, in Galilee, sts 1, 2, 3, 4 (CPH:  2006).

Traveling + Traveling Cold + Traveling "Consumer Smart"

ROAD TRIP

On MON 1/15, I will be leaving for Rochester, MN. Beginning at 7:00a, on TUE 1/16, I will be participating in the Executive Wellness Program:  tests, consultations, & procedures. This program is best described as a general health screening & examinations "on steroids. That would mean 21 of the preceding types of encounters thru THU 1/18 afternoon. [Been there, done this once before.] I get to spend the weekend at Nathan (son), Laura (daughter-in-law), & Calvin's (#2 grandson) in Eagan, MN, before returning for my last consultation on MON 1/22. Then it's off to Jackson, MN, where I will spend MON night before, hopefully, visiting my Uncle Royce & Cousin Dan in Lakefield on TUE before returning home.

That was a relatively long preface to the following item of great interest. As I was researching some topics on-line while working at Orphan Grain Train on FRI 1/12, I saw a link to the "50 Coldest Cities," courtesy of msn.com "weather." Naturally, I had to check it out. 

Here are some results that once again are of great interest. CAVEAT:  There of great interest to me, & it's my blog.

• #49. Chicago. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 16.5. The lowest temp on record is -27. Avg annual snowfall is 39.1". COMMENT:  Lois & I lived in Chicago from 1975-1980. After standing at the bus stop on Central Ave. at the top of the viaduct across Grand Ave., suffering bone-chilling, city-record low temperatures during the winter months, I am shocked!! that Chicago couldn't do better than this. Very disappointing. :(
• #41. Lincoln, NE. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 14.5. The lowest temp on record is -33. Avg annual snowfall is 26.9". COMMENT:  Lois & I lived in Lincoln from 1980-1993. Our daughter Sarah & her family live there now.
• #39. Grand Island, NE. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 14.4. The lowest temp on record is -28. Avg annual snowfall is 29.2".  2nd of 6 Nebraska cities that landed among the Top 50.
• #35. Omaha, NE. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 13.6. The lowest temp on record is -23. Avg annual snowfall is 29.1". COMMENT:  Last week one night when it was 51 degrees, public & private schools cancelled school for the next day, based on an ominous snowfall. The city go less than an inch of snow. I do NOT miss being the one to make the call for Lutheran High Northeast.
• #30. Scottsbluff, NE. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 17.5. The lowest temp on record is -46. Avg annual snowfall is 38.4". COMMENT:  Have you ever detoured off I-80 to see this natural & historical landmark? It's worth the detour. Just do go in the winter. 
• #29. Norfolk, NE. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 12.1. The lowest temp on record is -30. Avg annual snowfall is 29.8". COMMENT:  After living in Hawaii from 1993-97, we moved back to Norfolk in 1997. I came back in Jan. 1997, 6 months ahead of the rest of my family. Hawaii to Nebraska on Jan. 5? Duh Duh Duh.
• #23. North Platte, NE. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 11.1. The lowest temp on record is -34. Avg annual snowfall is 29.7". COMMENT:  The coldest Nebraska City listed in the Top 50. I'm guessing that most people wouldn't think that we have this many cities in the Top 50 Coldest States.
• #19. Sioux City, IA. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 10.2. The lowest temp on record is -26. Avg annual snowfall is 33.4". COMMENT:  We live about 1.5 hours southwest of Sioux City. When I was teaching English 9 at Luther North in Chicago one year, students were taking turns reading aloud from a short story in their lit book. One young man read up to the word "Sioux," hesitated only briefly before pronouncing it "Sucks," then continuing on. No one laughed. No one snickered. He wasn't trying to be vulgar or funny. City kids. Sheesh.
• #17. Waterloo, IA. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 9.5. The lowest temp on record is -34. Avg annual snowfall is 33.3". COMMENT:  This is the closest city to my brother Mark & sister-in-law Christy's domecile in Garrison, IA. If I was doing a Leckband Temp Challenge based on this list, they would probably win hands-down.
• #14. Rochester, MN. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 7.7. The lowest temp on record is -40. Avg annual snowfall is 44.8". COMMENT:  The forecast high temp avg for the 4 days I will be there this next week is forecast to be 9.75. The avg low temp for the 4 days is forecast to be 2.75. Fortunately, my hotel is just across the street from the Mayo Clinic, & it's connected by a pedestrian tunnel.
• #12. Minneapolis-St. Paul. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is 7.5. The lowest temp on record is -34. Avg annual snowfall is 49.4". COMMENT:  Nathan & Laura live in Eagan, which is a Twin Cities Suburb. Nathan & Laura are both long distance runners. [marathons, 10k's, 5k's; & Nathan, maybe Laura, too, run outside in the winter, & I think both were high g.p.a. achievers in school.
• Fairbanks, AK. The normal avg low temp in the coldest month is -16.9. The lowest temp on record is -66. Avg annual snowfall is 64.5". COMMENT:  I threw Fairbanks in just to show what it would take for your city to finish #1.
• CAVEAT:  For the sake of my relatives who live in FL, I decided NOT to go with a list of 50 Cities likely to be under water by 2050 because of global climate change.

Information You Won't Find Anywhere Else! *

From Omaha World Herald (12/30):  "Shopping: What to buy when during the year.

• January:  Bedding & Linens. [That reminds me . . . I'm missing a pillow case. I'll see if I have time to make a side trip to Mall of America next weekend & look for the 7 "Aces + Pillowcases" kiosks. Aces? They share space with Mystic Lake Casino.
• Fitness Equipment: "Retailers know you want to get in shape." [So I should get a stationary bicycle to set up next to the treadmill that is covered with an inch of dust in our basement.] *  * That's not entirely fair. Lois uses the treadmill when she comes home from school & is still short of her 10,000-step Fitbit goal.
• TV & Electronics:  "Just before the Super Bowl retailers normally discount their selections of HDTVs & other home-theater essentials." [We dropped cable & switched to Apple TV, Netflix, & CBS.com, so far. The Super Bowl usually holds little interest for me anyway, & my favorite son-in-law who lives just a half mile west of us has a big screen t.v.]

* Unless you subscribe to the Omaha World Herald or most likely other major metropolitan newspapers or Google this same topic.