dfish

Good morning, everyone!

It is a rainy day here in mid-Michigan.  It has been raining since yesterday afternoon. Tomorrow the forecast is worse, so I guess I'll be happy with the rain.  Nothing on the agenda today except the gym.  My thumb is much better, but still a little numb. That may take a while to resolve.

@grapau27 My condolences to Sarah, you, and Pauline on the death of Sarah's father. 

Chicken stroganoff reminds me of a dish my mom used to make that we called chicken liver casserole. She sauteed chicken livers and mushrooms in butter and a little sherry.  Also sauteed ground beef and onions.  The two were combined and mixed with sour cream and then with noodles, placed in a casserole dish and baked for a half hour. It was one of our favorite meals. Here's our first recipe:  https://www.recipetineats.com/chicken-stroganoff/

The last recipe used chicken thighs and this one uses chicken breasts and coats them with a little flour before pan frying.  That flour is what thickens the sauce in this recipe.  https://cafedelites.com/chicken-stroganoff/

One last one that cuts up the chicken into smaller pieces and dredges them in flour before searing.  The Dijon mustard and worcestershire sauce add flavor.  https://www.saltandlavender.com/chicken-stroganoff/

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

1 hour ago, Haljo1935 said:

 

@dfish I hear ya - Dr said the Rx he signed serves as his letter of medical necessity and if they (insurance clerks) have a question or disagree, then maybe they should seek a medical degree. Feels like a p*****g contest and I think it may not be a quick process 🙄🥺 I will call Monday, ugh

Sounds like your doc has had it with the system.  I can't blame him.  My orthopedic surgeon retired early because she was tired of dealing with insurance companies.  She was excellent.  For both knees when I was brought up to my room the nurse checking me in commented that I had the best doctor.  She was a class act all over.  Too bad that they are getting burned out by the system.

1 hour ago, cat shepard said:

Showered, eaten & sipping a lovely GSM. 
 

What a day. I am wiped, but it has been a great day.
 

We were so impressed with the rehab facility in Saint Augustine - both the tour and the meeting with the two reps, that my Sister decided not to bother with the place close to Jacksonville. I suspect knowing  that her Grandson might get to visit a couple of times sealed the deal.

 

This place has a huge inside PT/OT room. And a lovely outside area.  They have a mock kitchen, bathroom and laundry room so patients can practice real life skills. All rooms are private. Meals are served in the room.

 

The place is spotless. Everyone was friendly and welcoming. They answered all my family’s questions: my Sister’s son works for Moderna and my Sister’s daughter works for Sloan Kettering so they asked some great questions. This was also the first place that my Sister’s PT guru in the hospital mentioned when we asked him “Where would you want your Mom to go for rehab?”
 

So now we are just waiting for a bed to open up. Possible tomorrow. Her travel bag is packed and ready to go. 
 

None of us can believe her progress in just three days. 😎

 

Thank you all again for your prayers & well wishes. ❤️

 

Ann

Great news, Ann!   I'm sure it is relief to all involved, especially your sister, to have a decision made and a plan to follow.

I keep forgetting to mention that my  middle name is Ann.  I like it better than my first name.  I always wanted to be Amy, though.  

@Haljo1935 I wonder if the particular drug ordered requires pre-authorization.  Clerks at the insurance company know more than the doctors and the doctors have to prove they know what they are doing.  Sometimes, that is hard for them.

7 minutes ago, TexasHikers said:

I have a question about what to pack

we will be on the Kiningsdam January 4-25, 2025. Do you mainly take layers?

jeans for days and dress slacks for evening?  Long sleeve shirts?

just trying to have an idea on type of clothing 

any information will be appreciated 

I enjoyed your daily trip reports

I only took one pair of jeans and only wore them the first day in San Diego and once on board the ship.  The first two days out of San Diego can be chilly outside.  Same for the way back with the last two days.  In Hawaii I wore capris and shorts with sandals.  It wasn't hot, hot, nor was it chilly in Hawaii except at mountain summits.  

57 minutes ago, Quartzsite Cruiser said:

 

Debbie, we've know for many years that the biggest expense for drug companies is advertising.  The only other country in the world that allows such advertising is New Zealand.  So we don't believe the drug companies when they say we have to recover the research and development costs.  In other words, they are drug dealers with a "legal license".

 

Thanks for explanation of be nasty day.  In those cases where women need to stand up for what is right, then, I'll be "nasty" too.

 

Lenda

I love your description of the drug companies and couldn't agree more.  

2 hours ago, Quartzsite Cruiser said:

@marshhawk  Annie, another site that is similar to GoodRX is SingleCare.com.  DH looked up your drug and with SingleCare it is under $400 at most pharmacies.  We've used SingleCare recently when it was quite a bit lower than Good RX.  DH also looked up the drug in Mexico, and it's about $56.79 for a 30 day supply.

 

Lenda

I did the same thing.  Apparently, many of us thought of Single Care as well.  I have no sympathy for the pharmaceutical industry. They are definitely price gouging.  They regularly out perform all Fortune 500 companies.  The bulk of their spending is not on research and development.  The expensive part of that is generally done with grants from the US government.  The largest expenditure of the drug companies is on advertising.  

I looked up Be Nasty Day as I couldn't believe that there was such a day.  It has an interesting history.  It originated when Hilary Clinton was referred to as "that nasty woman."   The day isn't meant for being deliberately nasty for no good reason, rather for knowing one can stand their ground and say no firmly.  

The word ‘nasty’ has also taken a completely different connotation since Hillary Clinton was called that by her political opponent. Ever since, the word has become a feminist rallying cry, with women all over the world encouraged to be nasty to hold on to their rights and fight for what they believe in. 

The Nasty Woman has become part of memes, art and performing arts, books and magazines, and other popular culture. The Nasty woman Project took off, becoming an important part of the feminist movement, and working towards achieving gender equality. As the movement states, sometimes being nasty is what it takes to do what you need to do, and stand up for what you believe in, because there’s no other way to make people listen. 

https://nationaltoday.com/be-nasty-day/

Good morning, everyone!

It is a bit of a dreary day here in mid-Michigan.  Rain is starting soon and is supposed to last all day.  I'm going to water fitness this morning.  I decided I need to change things up now and then.  After water fitness we will be running some errands and then home for the afternoon.  DB and DSIL will be over for dinner and Farkel this evening.  

The soup today looks good and would be a good meal to have on a chilly rainy day.  I like the addition of wine to this soup to braise the meat in.  I add red wine to my spicy bean soup and it adds a real depth of flavor to the soup.  https://www.thespruceeats.com/braised-beef-short-rib-soup-995387

This next version is Asian inspired with mushrooms and swiss chard.  https://www.skinnytaste.com/short-rib-soup-instant-pot-or-stove/

Galbitang or galbi-tang is Korean soup made with beef short ribs. Flavorful beef short ribs are simmered for over 1 hour among other aromatic vegetables (e.g. radishes, green onions, garlic and so on) and herbs. The result is deep, rich savory tasting soup with tender beef ribs. https://mykoreankitchen.com/galbitang-beef-short-rib-soup/

I think I'd go with number 2 or 3. 

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

@cat shepard Great news!  I'm sure there is huge relief all around.  

@sailingdutchy

@Mr. Boston Caring thoughts for your friend Lauren.  May she be comfortable and comforted.  

8 hours ago, AncientWanderer said:

Big improvement in about a week.  All better in a couple of weeks.  I’d been using one of those supports for carpal tunnel because it was around the house and that didn’t help at all.  The area had been sore for a really long time.  Oddly, it was just from repeatedly using a spray nozzle to water that kinda crushed that thumb area.  
 

Your problem might be totally different, but this really does help that area.  Can’t hurt.

My injury occurred when my thumb got caught and squeezed.  The glove I was wearing got caught in the snake coil and got wrapped very tightly around my thumb.  We had to cut the glove off.  It is getting better slowly.  I see a big improvement today.

Good morning, everyone!

It is a chilly start to the day, but it is supposed to be mostly sunny and warm to the upper 40s.  I have PT this morning then Sue and I are going to the craft store.  She wants to make wreaths.  

@RedneckBob 

Today's meal is great comfort food in my book.  I love anything cheesy.  However, it is off the menu for us as we are watching the carbs and calories.  I think tonight is fish and veggies.  This first recipe is super easy.  https://www.isabeleats.com/red-chicken-enchiladas/

This recipe includes beans in the filling. Beans are good for you because of the added fiber.    https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/best-chicken-enchiladas-ever/

In this recipe Ree Drummond makes a white enchilada sauce.   She describes it as creamy, dreamy, and cheesy.  https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11534/white-chicken-enchiladas/

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

39 minutes ago, AncientWanderer said:

 

Debbie, I sprained/strained or something or other’ed my thumb and the base of the thumb, and this healed it.  What a bargain.   
 

https://www.amazon.com/Mueller-Medicine-Reversible-Stabilizer-Measure/dp/B004YIFA2C/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3FNK7U6MFD3UE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.STMN18NNZR_dnNfkgj6E8VNM58zeiyvkvNN0f5LPVoLLwvpKHNc2bmqcWcTyzuDKZdCbgIa1ErFbkiWzke-nVhXRfzYY65ST6Jc3xZP3EdN8LA-n1JSY89SatedKawmGr7NnBb-q9gnBpJOhvwbNvD4nFqh-K75i9iVvHt7JzRvCmt8d_kMWc8tAUP6ERCtNVyp7rdE78YixGh99mOpvVlOOJNqmx8cWuvuRaxLTfi6EePZhnWUEBcd31Q4YX3JElHhLbvTfilwYLNfn3XKDf-wd_ofRQHxjQLsu9r9_z6Y.XUfc5VtoUWIMffiRbWr8xu7QNh8bIA6QZIXXqyo_lg0&dib_tag=se&keywords=mueller%2Bthumb%2Bstabilizer&qid=1709780507&sprefix=Mueller%2Bthumb%2B%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1&psc=1

 

(That looks like the longest link in history.  I hope it works.)

Thanks, Maxine!   How long did it take to heal the thumb?  

1 hour ago, Vict0riann said:

  I licked the beaters from the icing.  

Good for you! 

1 hour ago, StLouisCruisers said:

 

Debbie @dfish take care of that finger!  I hope it's better very soon.

The thumb is doing ok.  The whole hand got twisted and is bruised and a bit sore at times.  But, as we said before, as long as I can pick up my coffee mug and wine glass, I'm good to go. I have been icing it, but that only works for a while.  Thanks for the picture of Elliot Rose and I will keep the twins in my thoughts for a safe delivery.

@Seasick Sailor Joy, I hope Allen's pinched nerve resolves quickly.  

@JazzyV Your cross stitch project is beautiful.  Do, continue to work on it.

@marshhawk Hoping all went well with the dermatologist.

@Sharon in AZ I bet the house is going to look amazing!   We are still so thrilled with our paint job. 

@Quartzsite Cruiser Lenda, the story about the mirror reminds me of my dad.  He had so many parts of his car attached with duct tape it was unreal.  One of the mirrors, a fender, a light, etc.

My name is Hebrew and means Bee.  Of course I am deathly afraid of them.  Not allergic, just afraid.  

Good morning, everyone!

@Heartgrove  No problem giving Eva credit.  She did a fantastic job while I was gone.  I'm glad Sam has rebounded and I hope it is for a good, long time.  

It is a chilly and overcast start to the day here in mid-Michigan. The forecast calls for partly sunny skies and 46F as our high.  That will be an improvement over yesterday with the rain.  My left hand is pretty sore today.  I can still use it for everything, but it is stiff from yesterday's injury.  The thumb is definitely swollen a bit and still feels funny.  But, I have good mobility with it, so not too worried.  I can pick up my coffee cup with no problem, so the important function is still there.

Today's meal would be a good one for those on the frozen tundra.  I hope @ger_77 is doing well with all the snow and safely tucked inside.  This sounds like a flavorful soup with the red wine and pesto.  https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/276940/slow-cooker-beef-barley-soup-with-red-wine-pesto/

This one adds some little potatoes and green beans.  https://eatbreathelove.net/red-wine-beef-barley-soup/

And this one includes pumpkin cubes.  I'm sure you could easily substitute butternut squash for the pumpkin.  https://ajeanneinthekitchen.com/2018/12/19/beef-barley-soup-with-red-wine-and-pesto/

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

2 hours ago, kazu said:

 

yikes on your thumb, Debbie.  😬. I am glad it seems to be ok.  I hope it feels normal today 🙏 

Thanks, Jacqui.  The whole hand is a bit stiff this morning and the thumb is swollen, but nothing horrible.  I imagine it will take a few days for things to get better.  

No problem here with Facebook.  

I snaked out the drains this morning and the utility glove got caught in the snake and twisted.  We had to cut my thumb out.  It has pinked up nicely, I can move it with no pain, squeeze it with no pain, but it still feels like I slept on it.  I can feel with it.  It just has that pins and needles feeling to it.  

2 hours ago, Heartgrove said:

Thank you Jacqui, thank you Eva, thank you Vanessa, thank you Ann, and thank you Dixie for all your work.  And thank you everyone for being here!

 

Sorry for not posting for a while. Life got in the way.

 

We have been feeling very sad for a few days. Out of the blue my dog Sam has taken a turn and I will need to put him down. He has been getting weaker due to his hip dysplasia, All of a sudden on Thursday night he let out a shriek! It became very painful it seemed to rise. He was very restless after that and I ended up laying on the floor next to him trying to sooth him. Friday I spoke to the vet and doubled his pain medicatio. Somehow we got through the weekend as he got worse as his front legs were now causing problems. The vet came yesterday morning to the house (Sam is 120 pounds and unable to get in a car) to evaluate him. He has even less muscle mass in his rear legs and could have underlying issues beginning to materialize. The decision I madw was to put him down at home on Friday morning.

 

We have only had him 2-1/2 years and we knew what we were in for. The rescue organization classified him as a hospice dog to live the rest of his life in a kennel. But then I adopted himand gave him stability for his remaining years. His original owner had passed away and the family gave him up for adoption. He was adopted for four months but returned "as being too needy." After that , two foster homes until I got him. I had actually agreed to adopt him before letting my previous Alaskan Malamute Juno go at 13 years 2 months.

 

Sam has been the most affectionate dog I have ever owned. He will be the hardest to let go.

 

One year ago on February 2, 2023.

 

 

Stay Safe, and prayers for those in need.

- Jack

Sam is a beautiful dog and reflects the love you have given him.  We will be holding  you and Sam close in our hearts through this difficult time.

47 minutes ago, smitty34877 said:

@cat shepard, DD and I realized early on in Lou’s illness that he really was way too sick and could not safely advocate for himself. He was a retired social worker and was very upset about this. We also found that vital meds were not given and had to watch things carefully. Today I think we are still processing the experience nowadays as it was incredibly stressful. However, I keep reminding myself that we all did the best we could under extraordinary circumstances  and I am sure you are doing that as well. It is a fine line to walk between getting things done for the patient and irritating the staff!
Sending many hugs to all of you!

 When my dad had surgery for his abdominal aortic aneurysm we found out the hospital had put him back on a medication that caused all kinds of problems.  As hard as it is, we should all make sure we have someone who can act as advocate for us if needed.  Yes, Terry,  you did do the best you could.  But, I know the self doubts as I had them after my mom passed away.  I talked to my doctor about it as she also did hospice work and she told me there is a lot of guilt in being a caregiver during a terminal illness.  We all think we should have done better and that we'd still have our loved one with us, but it just isn't the case.  

Good morning, everyone!

@Quartzsite Cruiser Happy Birthday to Steve!

I am happy that @rafinmd Roy's oncology appointment was routine and all seems to be progressing in a positive direction.  Also happy that @ottahand7 Nancy's surgery went well, but hope something was able to help with the pain.  I've never found Tylenol to be effective.

Great news that @StLouisCruisers DGD Morgan has a new, safe place to live.  

Healing thoughts go out to @marshhawk and @catmando Annie and Chuck for Chuck's surgery.

It is currently raining quite hard and the rain is supposed to last most of the day.  Our high today is 45F and we are there right now.  It will be a while before we see 70F again.  Nothing much on the agenda today after PT.  I'm not sure the PT is accomplishing much as I still wake up with hip pain during the night and I still have the back, neck, and shoulder pain when walking.  But, I will spend this money to make insurance happy.  

I know we've talked about today's meal before and I believe it was @Quartzsite Cruiser Lenda who shared a recipe for Ranch Chicken with us.  It did sound very good.  Here is an easy enough recipe to get us started. I think the chicken looks a little washed out and hope it is the lighting for the picture.   https://realfoodwholelife.com/recipes/healthy-slow-cooker-ranch-chicken-veggies/

This one looks a little more appetizing.  I like the vegetables in this one.   https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/259618/slow-cooked-ranch-chicken-and-vegetables/

This one has a nice, creamy gravy.  It would go well over riced cauliflower.  https://www.restlesschipotle.com/ranch-chicken/

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

Good morning, everyone!

It is going to be a beautiful day here in mid-Michigan with mostly sunny skies and a high of 73F.  We'll probably spend part of the day working out in the yard and cleaning some stuff up.  We have a lot of branches and sticks to pick up.  Sue is anxious for flower season.  

We agreed we were going to get serious about our dieting this week, so no fries for us, regular or sweet potato.  But these fries would go well with a burger on the grill or fish on the grill or anything on the grill.   As you can tell, I'm getting anxious for grilling season and today might just kick it off.  This recipe is easy to do, but in order to get enough fries to feed more than one person, you have to cook in batches.  https://feelgoodfoodie.net/recipe/air-fryer-sweet-potato-fries/

This page has directions for air frying regular sweet potato fries or for extra crispy sweet potato fries.  https://www.skinnytaste.com/crispy-air-fryer-sweet-potato-fries/

Have  you tried a bit of Creole seasoning on your fries?  That is what this recipe does.  https://www.budgetbytes.com/air-fryer-sweet-potato-fries/

@ottahand7 Best wishes for an easy and successful surgery!

@ger_77 I am sure your neighbors are very thankful you stopped by with supplies for them before this storm hit.  I hope you and Maurice stay snug and warm.  

@cat shepard Keeping your sister in our thoughts today and everyday.

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

4 hours ago, cruising sister said:

Here is a picture of Murphy going home!

Absolutely adorable!

1 hour ago, JazzyV said:

 

@dfish I've made the Skinnytaste version of the soup, and it's quite good.

Happy to hear that!  Thanks for the feedback.   I could just hear the groaning when I saw butternut squash, but it is so good for us.  @kochleffel Paul, you will just have to bear with us.  

2 hours ago, 1ANGELCAT said:

Good sunny morning. It’s going to be a beautiful day.

What wonderful news about Baby Murphy ❤️🎉. She truly is a fighter.

Still no posting from @Crazy For Cats. I hope he is okay. I miss his cat memes.

Today is the official start of the Iditarod. Prayers for a safe race.

Blessings and prayers to all on our lists.

I messaged him on FB and am waiting.  It said he had just been active there, so maybe he's just taking a break or they are traveling?

2 hours ago, StLouisCruisers said:

 

Debbie, how would Sue like another little chipmunk friend?  We could trap and send him up to you two.  Though he might be unprepared for really cold weather so you might have to invite him inside.  😂

I'm thinking not.  It definitely won't get in the house!   LOL

Good morning, everyone!

We have a cloudy start to the day, but it is supposed to clear up and be warm - about 63F.  Definitely unseasonably warm, but I will enjoy every minute of it.  We walked Dow Gardens yesterday for the first time this year and enjoyed the sunshine and warmth.  We may head out to Chippewa Nature Center today or City Forest.  

Great news about Baby Murphy!   I'm sure her parents are more than thrilled.  @0106 Tina, have a wonderful cruise!  @cat shepard Healing thoughts to your sister.  I hope today isn't quite as hard on her.  @StLouisCruisers Sandi, I chuckled about your chipmunk friend.  Sue has several who come up on the deck and tell her what's what on a regular basis.  It is funny to watch because they'll come up there, look at her, and start jabbering away at her.  Your cross stitch is gorgeous!  I don't have that patience.  @kazu I agree the drink sounds interesting.  I'd like to try it.  I'm making a list for the next time I'm on a BHB.  We had such fun the day we got together and tried the Chocolate Chicken.  

I know we won't have the soup tonight.  We have left overs that need to be eaten before they go bad.  But I did chuckle when I saw butternut squash.  This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup with sweet pears a hint of ginger is vegan and dairy-free and so simple to make. Great as a starter or serve it as a meal with a salad or a sandwich.  https://www.skinnytaste.com/slow-cooker-butternut-pear-soup/

One of the best things about squash is that it can take on both sweet and savory flavors. You can combine it with caramelized onions and spicy garlic sauce, or mix it with tons of cheese, or even top it with a casserole of sugary candied pecans.  If it is cooked down until tender, with a few chopped Royal Riviera Pears, the result is a delicious sweet and savory soup.

Garnished with a few drops of cream and some super thinly sliced scallions, this gourmet soup is the perfect winter meal.  https://www.harryanddavid.com/blog/pear-and-butternut-squash-soup-recipe

This one gets rave reviews.  One reader suggests adding a touch of cinnamon to the soup.  I'm sure that would work beautifully.   https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/butternut-squash-pear-soup/

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

2 hours ago, cruising sister said:

Hello from the Volendam.  I just got word that Baby Murphy went home. She will have to be on CPAP at home and will get 40 hours of nursing help.  I will update as I hear.  Have a great day!

Fantastic news!   Thank you for the update!

Good morning, everyone!

It is a balmy 37F here in mid-Michigan with a forecast of mostly sunny and 54F.  I am going to try an outdoor walk today so I can report on the effectiveness of the physical therapy.  If the old problems persist, then that is more ammunition for the nerve ablation.  Nothing else is on the agenda for today.  

Today's meal should be an interesting one.  Berbere spice is Ethiopian in origin.  It is a mixture of various spices such as   Coriander , Cumin,  Green Cardamom , Dried Red Chili Peppers,  Allspice, Whole , Fenugreek, Black Peppercorn, Sweet Paprika, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Ground Turmeric, Ground Nutmeg, Salt. Normally, it has quite a bit of heat to it, but you can control that by controlling the amount of red chili peppers you add in.  Here is a recipe for making it.  It has you roast whole seeds for some of the ingredients first and then grinding them.  https://www.daringgourmet.com/berbere-ethiopian-spice-blend/

This recipe calls for 5 tablespoons of the berbere spice mixture, but says you can cut that down if you want it less spicy.   I'd start with a small amount and work my way up to the level I want.  It is easier to add more than to take out.  https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/250402/berbere-spiced-chicken-lentil-stew/

Food and Wine says you can replace the berbere spice with garam masala for a similar flavor profile.  The first comment is telling:  she says add the berbere spice slowly and stop when you get to the heat you want.  At 3 tablespoons of the mixture she felt the dish was inedible due to the heat.  https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/slow-cooker-ethiopian-spiced-chicken-and-black-lentil-stew

Wishing you all a wonderful day!