Small Talk: The Prayer Closet

[bigskygirl]

52 minutes ago, SunnyBeBe said:

That's tough Christina, I'd definitely find a GOOD endocrinologist.  Do you have a teaching hospital near by?  They tend to be up on things more, imo, and are more able to treat the whole person.  Many also have a nutritionist, who can assist.  Before your appointment, I would keep a food journal of all foods you eat and times, to take with you.  That way, you can show them why you think something is off with thyroid or other hormones.  I have hypothyroidism and meds work great for me. I got on the right dose immediately and it's worked great. I went from total exhaustion to feeling normal again, but, I can say that I didn't notice much in the way of weight loss.  (Also have you checked your blood sugar?( I see Endo for thyroid and Type I diabetes. 

Does anyone know how to ENLARGE THE PRINT ON THIS SITE NOW? It's much smaller than it used to be.  I can't find a way to do do it. 

I am the opposite. Right now I am in hypothyroid land with a med dosage change almost three weeks ago. I start to feel better, but before I know it, I will be in hyperthyroid land (with the same thing happening if I start out mild hyperthyroid.) Right now I am having symptoms of hypo and hyperthyroidism. The worse part is I am more sensitive to hyperthyroid symptoms. UGH!!!

[SunnyBeBe]

38 minutes ago, bigskygirl said:

Do you look it up on the internet for suggestions. I usually look at the directions and ask my eye doctor or pharmacist which way is the best way to do. I tilt my head back and use a finger to gently push down or lower the lower eye lid while looking up at the ceiling and gently tap on the eye drop bottle to put one or two drops in each eye. I am blind as a bat when I cannot see, so sometimes I do not tilt my head all the way back to put the drops in. And I could suggest washing your hands before and after using the drops and have a Kleenex close by in case you put in too much drops in either eye. You may want to ask your eye doctor about an eye mask or to use a eye lid cleanser because it can help with dirt, pollen or other things that can affect your eye lids leading to other eye problems.

I've been through A LOT with eye issues, surgery, etc.  I say that practice really helps with drops.  AND, I had to try several brands to find over the counter that worked for me. Refresh worked against me and I ended up with Systane.  I use their gel drops, ointments and Complete.  Pricey as hey, but, I have no choice.  😞

[Christina87]

@SunnyBeBe thanks so much for your encouragement!!! I agree about the endo being a good idea, as well as the food journal. The doctor i went to the other day looked at my blood sugar (he could see all my bloodworm results from the last few years) and was floored to see that it was great, along with my thyroid levels! I've heard thyroid problems can be difficult to diagnose, however. My condition just sounds a LOT like hypothyroidism. Is it at all possible for hypothyroidism to leave and then come back? I know it sounds silly, but I was never tested while I was having the really bad symptoms. I've been having hair loss again lately...not as bad as the first time, though...and I wonder if my results would be different now. 

It's just so, so weird!!! Thanks to all of you for listening and being encouraging. It really means a lot!

[bigskygirl]

I have heard someone can be hypo or hyperthyroid and it does not come back for awhile. I was in remission for years with Graves Disease. It would act up a little then settle down again. It did not flare up until August 2012. I was mild hyperthyroid in July 2012, but my primary care physician did not nothing about it. This is why I always suggest if you are mild hypo or hyper thyroid to get it treated because if you do not it could get worse.

I was not tested for it until I went in to be a possible kidney donor. The kidney specialist noticed the side of my neck near my thyroid was a little swollen and asked me if I was tested for a possible thyroid disorder. I said no, and she went ahead and ordered a thyroid blood test. My test came back fine. I was showing some symptoms, but it was not until I had my one operation and found out I had endometriosis the symptoms were getting worse. I went back to my ob/gyn and he ordered a thyroid test. It should not take a kidney specialist and an ob/gyn to figure out your thyroid is out of whack because you want to donate an organ to someone.  Of course, I was told I had situation anxiety or situation depression by one nitwit doctor because my husband was sick. I mean really... Lazy jackass did not want to think something else was seriously wrong. GRRR!!!

Edited April 15, 2019 by bigskygirl

[Ohiopirate02]

20 minutes ago, Christina87 said:

@SunnyBeBe thanks so much for your encouragement!!! I agree about the endo being a good idea, as well as the food journal. The doctor i went to the other day looked at my blood sugar (he could see all my bloodworm results from the last few years) and was floored to see that it was great, along with my thyroid levels! I've heard thyroid problems can be difficult to diagnose, however. My condition just sounds a LOT like hypothyroidism. Is it at all possible for hypothyroidism to leave and then come back? I know it sounds silly, but I was never tested while I was having the really bad symptoms. I've been having hair loss again lately...not as bad as the first time, though...and I wonder if my results would be different now. 

It's just so, so weird!!! Thanks to all of you for listening and being encouraging. It really means a lot!

If all if your bloodwork comes back normal, have the doctors check for an undiagnosed hernia or fibroids.   My one friend could never lose weight and her thyroid tested normal.   She decided to have gastric bypass and the doctor noticed a hernia that she had for decades.   It stretched across her midsection and was the cause of her weight.

[zoomama]

I feel like I have aged thirty years in the last two, metabolism wise. I never thought that body would just be taken like that. If I can figure out what's wrong and get it back, I'll never take it for granted again!

this is me exactly!

i didnt realize i had to resign in -- i had been reading along as if it was all the same with a new header. i am a bit slow.....

[Marshmallow Mollie]

Four years ago I had young twins, I was working an insane job 7 days a week, 60 hours a week, my husband was working nights, and I was losing weight like crazy. I am 5’10” and got down to 125#. I was emaciated, I looked gross. I went to my dr who said it was stress. I had heard that if doctors can’t figure out what is wrong, it gets in their nerves, so they say it’s your nerves. I was like, yeah I’m stressed, but I stress eat - I don’t have an appetite at all. I pushed and pushed and saw several specialists, who ended up all telling me it was stress and even personal stories about the wacky ways stress had affected people they knew. I ended up quitting the insane job and decided to give it six months before I demanded to be referred to a specialist at UNC. Welllllllll after I settled into my new life, lo and behold my appetite returned and I gained to be a healthy weight. Turns out I can be a stress starver. All of this to say, @Christina87 I think you said your weight gain and working with that crazy principal were around the same time. If it’s related and turns out to be stress, you wouldn’t be the first to be absolutely flabbergasted stress could do crazy things to your body. My endocrinologist, after giving me the full work up, said that situation-specific stress, while it may feel weird, it ultimately an easier fix than thyroid disease. 

I’m not going to remember the details now, but I did learn in the process that you can have normal thyroid tests but something or other can still be wrong. A t3 or t4 or something? In any case, an endocrinologist will know to look for that over the general dr. 

[bigskygirl]

16 minutes ago, Marshmallow Mollie said:

Four years ago I had young twins, I was working an insane job 7 days a week, 60 hours a week, my husband was working nights, and I was losing weight like crazy. I am 5’10” and got down to 125#. I was emaciated, I looked gross. I went to my dr who said it was stress. I had heard that if doctors can’t figure out what is wrong, it gets in their nerves, so they say it’s your nerves. I was like, yeah I’m stressed, but I stress eat - I don’t have an appetite at all. I pushed and pushed and saw several specialists, who ended up all telling me it was stress and even personal stories about the wacky ways stress had affected people they knew. I ended up quitting the insane job and decided to give it six months before I demanded to be referred to a specialist at UNC. Welllllllll after I settled into my new life, lo and behold my appetite returned and I gained to be a healthy weight. Turns out I can be a stress starver. All of this to say, @Christina87 I think you said your weight gain and working with that crazy principal were around the same time. If it’s related and turns out to be stress, you wouldn’t be the first to be absolutely flabbergasted stress could do crazy things to your body. My endocrinologist, after giving me the full work up, said that situation-specific stress, while it may feel weird, it ultimately an easier fix than thyroid disease. 

I’m not going to remember the details now, but I did learn in the process that you can have normal thyroid tests but something or other can still be wrong. A t3 or t4 or something? In any case, an endocrinologist will know to look for that over the general dr. 

I was told it was stress related anxiety and/or stress related depression. I found later it was Endometriosis and Graves Disease. I also found out women who were diagnosed with Endometriosis may also end up with a thyroid disorder. Stress can make your thyroid levels go whacky. I was told three things can be the main cause of a thyroid disorder: stress, environmental conditions, and family history. I think some doctors are quick with the ole it is stress, learn to relax, and everything will be fine. Yes, it may be stress, but it can be an undiagnosed medical condition.

[latetotheparty]

19 minutes ago, Marshmallow Mollie said:

Four years ago I had young twins, I was working an insane job 7 days a week, 60 hours a week, my husband was working nights, and I was losing weight like crazy. I am 5’10” and got down to 125#. I was emaciated, I looked gross. I went to my dr who said it was stress. I had heard that if doctors can’t figure out what is wrong, it gets in their nerves, so they say it’s your nerves. I was like, yeah I’m stressed, but I stress eat - I don’t have an appetite at all. I pushed and pushed and saw several specialists, who ended up all telling me it was stress and even personal stories about the wacky ways stress had affected people they knew. I ended up quitting the insane job and decided to give it six months before I demanded to be referred to a specialist at UNC. Welllllllll after I settled into my new life, lo and behold my appetite returned and I gained to be a healthy weight. Turns out I can be a stress starver. All of this to say, @Christina87 I think you said your weight gain and working with that crazy principal were around the same time. If it’s related and turns out to be stress, you wouldn’t be the first to be absolutely flabbergasted stress could do crazy things to your body. My endocrinologist, after giving me the full work up, said that situation-specific stress, while it may feel weird, it ultimately an easier fix than thyroid disease. 

I’m not going to remember the details now, but I did learn in the process that you can have normal thyroid tests but something or other can still be wrong. A t3 or t4 or something? In any case, an endocrinologist will know to look for that over the general dr. 

I have turned into a stress starver. I survived a pulmonary embolism a year and a half ago and I seriously lost my appetite for 6 months afterward. I struggled to eat anything and dropped 70 pounds. Now if I get stressed about anything the appetite is the first to go. I had always been an eat your feelings kinda gal. 

I get frustrated with people who think YAY when I mention this. It is not yay. Eating like an anorexic for six months was hugely frightening.  I don’t recommend it. 

[allonsyalice]

4 hours ago, SunnyBeBe said:

Does anyone know how to ENLARGE THE PRINT ON THIS SITE NOW? It's much smaller than it used to be.  I can't find a way to do do it. 

Scroll down to the bottom of the page, under the social media plugins, theres a thing that says theme.

click that, it's a drop down menu and from there you can choose background, font size!

[emma675]

I will shout it from the rooftops until I'm blue in the face, YOU HAVE TO CHECK FREE T3 AND FREE T4, NOT JUST TSH TO TRULY DIAGNOSE THYROID PROBLEMS! Most doctors, even endocrinologists, aren't taught anything more than TSH and patients are suffering needlessly. If your Free T3 is low your metabolism essentially grinds to a halt. I suffered for almost 10 years before I lucked upon a doctor who truly got it and helped. 

[Christina87]

45 minutes ago, Marshmallow Mollie said:

Four years ago I had young twins, I was working an insane job 7 days a week, 60 hours a week, my husband was working nights, and I was losing weight like crazy. I am 5’10” and got down to 125#. I was emaciated, I looked gross. I went to my dr who said it was stress. I had heard that if doctors can’t figure out what is wrong, it gets in their nerves, so they say it’s your nerves. I was like, yeah I’m stressed, but I stress eat - I don’t have an appetite at all. I pushed and pushed and saw several specialists, who ended up all telling me it was stress and even personal stories about the wacky ways stress had affected people they knew. I ended up quitting the insane job and decided to give it six months before I demanded to be referred to a specialist at UNC. Welllllllll after I settled into my new life, lo and behold my appetite returned and I gained to be a healthy weight. Turns out I can be a stress starver. All of this to say, @Christina87 I think you said your weight gain and working with that crazy principal were around the same time. If it’s related and turns out to be stress, you wouldn’t be the first to be absolutely flabbergasted stress could do crazy things to your body. My endocrinologist, after giving me the full work up, said that situation-specific stress, while it may feel weird, it ultimately an easier fix than thyroid disease. 

I’m not going to remember the details now, but I did learn in the process that you can have normal thyroid tests but something or other can still be wrong. A t3 or t4 or something? In any case, an endocrinologist will know to look for that over the general dr. 

Yes!!!! I really think working with him and the stress is probably a huge part of it! It was right around the time that the stress got bad that the weight gain started. The only piece of the puzzle that doesn't make sense is why it hasn't been easy to lose since I quit. Not that unemployment comes with zero stress, but I'm fortunate to have a roof over my head and food on the table! I'm so grateful, because not everybody has that luxury. I was also really sick that semester when I gained all the weight. I had strep throat twice, as well as mono! Those things take a toll on your body, for sure. I had constant migraines and hair loss right before the weight started, too. The next year, I got sick a lot because of the stress, even the flu! I haven't been sick except for one common cold this year.

Side note: after I had been away from the situation enough to start de-stressing, I couldn't take enough selfies, because I looked HAPPY!!! Happiness is truly something you can't fake. All summer, I was CONSTANTLY taking selfies just to see the light in my eyes and lack of tension in my face! It was like a drug! I was starting to worry that people would think I was full of myself because of all the selfies, but I wasn't admiring my face because of my appearance. I couldn't get enough of the genuine happiness! That stunned me. I had no idea happiness was so obvious in your smile and eyes!

Thanks for all the ideas, everyone! I'm going to make a list of possibilities that it could be. It's just so strange! I've never known anyone to go through something like this. @zoomama I'm really sorry you feel the same way. I wouldn't wish this on anybody!

[bigskygirl]

20 minutes ago, emma675 said:

I will shout it from the rooftops until I'm blue in the face, YOU HAVE TO CHECK FREE T3 AND FREE T4, NOT JUST TSH TO TRULY DIAGNOSE THYROID PROBLEMS! Most doctors, even endocrinologists, aren't taught anything more than TSH and patients are suffering needlessly. If your Free T3 is low your metabolism essentially grinds to a halt. I suffered for almost 10 years before I lucked upon a doctor who truly got it and helped. 

Sing it! I will also shout it from the rooftops until I lose my voice if your blood tests show mild or hyperthyroid get it treated. Do not let a doctor tell you everything is fine because you are "just" on the mild line. Just like my endocrinologist will say: it is your body and you know what is going on better than anyone else does.

[Christina87]

I've been storing and deleting photos recently, and it's just so depressing to see before, before, before...suddenly an after picture pops up! I went through and made a collage with one picture from each month, from June 2016 to August 2017. I think it's almost more shocking than just one before and one after picture, because there was virtually no in between; just before and after! It was literally like one day, nothing fit me anymore and I had to get a whole new wardrobe two sizes bigger. I had worn 12 my whole life, and ended up with 16's and 18's. Totally skipped 14! Just thought some of you might find it interesting, at the possible expense of looking vain. It's just such a weirdly quick weight gain! 

ETA: I know the last one looks better, but I hadn't lost weight; I was dressing for my body better. The first several months, I kept trying to wear stuff that I would have worn before! It took me a while to change my style enough to look flattering on my new body.

Edited April 16, 2019 by Christina87

[Mindthinkr]

After years of problems I finally got a correct diagnosis of hypothyroidism. They put me on Synthroid. The insurance would only pay for generic. So the symptoms kept returning and I was asking the Dr about upping my dose. He said “Nah, it’s probably the margin of error allowed in a generic versus brand.” Sure enough he called the insurance company and got permission to treat me with the brand Synthroid and I’ve been ok ever since (knock wood). He said usually he’s fine with generics, but when you are dealing with a minuscule amount you need what you need and don’t always do well on a generic. Just sharing. 

Edited April 16, 2019 by Mindthinkr
Versus not verses.

[bigskygirl]

16 minutes ago, Mindthinkr said:

After years of problems I finally got a correct diagnosis of hypothyroidism. They put me on Synthroid. The insurance would only pay for generic. So the symptoms kept returning and I was asking the Dr about upping my dose. He said “Nah, it’s probably the margin of error allowed in a generic verses brand.” Sure enough he called the insurance company and got permission to treat me with the brand Synthroid and I’ve been ok ever since (knock wood). He said usually he’s fine with generics, but when you are dealing with a minuscule amount you need what you need and don’t always do well on a generic. Just sharing. 

I ask my endocrinologist about why it took longer for me to feel better after I took my thyroid medication in the morning, and he told me it depends on the dosage. Some people it can be about a week for the medication to start doing its job, and some people it can take affect within a few hours of taking it. I notice in the morning I can feel crappy after getting out of bed, but by mid day I start feeling better. I am tempted on asking him if your sinuses or allergies act up could it cause wacky thyroid hormone levels. I know when either one acts up it feels like all my medical issues kick in. He did tell me weather changes or changes in the seasons can cause thyroid levels to change.

When my husband's blood sugars levels started getting dangerously high in 2010, his VA doctor wanted his thyroid levels checked along with his sinus areas checked because your thyroid levels going wacky, and your sinuses acting up can cause your blood sugar levels to go up. Luckily my blood sugars levels are good, but my bad cholesterol levels along with my overall cholesterol levels are a little high, but my good cholesterol levels look good, so no cholesterol reducing medication for me.

[Mindthinkr]

@bigskygirl I never put 2 and 2 together about sinuses and thyroid. I’ve had the worst allergy year in my life. It’s a constant struggle and it seems like it’s been going on far too long.  I told the Doc I had green and yellow drainage from my nose and cough plus a 101.8 degree fever for over 6 days. It’s reducing, but I can tell there is still lots of congestion in my lungs. He keeps assuring me it will go away. Remember when I was so sick for 10 weeks last year and dropped to 72 lbs? He said nothing was wrong with me then either. I’m finally getting a second opinion this Wednesday. I hate to doubt him but I at the minimum want a medical professional who at least gives a hoot. 

I wish for you better health and good news on the cholesterol at least being good enough so you don’t have to take a statin. Cholesterol can be lowered with diet. I know as I’ve done it successfully. Feel better soon. 

[bigskygirl]

@Mindthinkr I am glad you are getting a second opinion because being sick for 10 weeks and dropping to 72 pounds is not good at all. I hate when doctors say it cannot be all that bad. Makes me want to slap the crap out of the doctor when he or she gets the snotty attitude.

[Zella]

2 hours ago, latetotheparty said:

I get frustrated with people who think YAY when I mention this. It is not yay. Eating like an anorexic for six months was hugely frightening.  I don’t recommend it. 

I can relate to this.

My situation wasn't like yours, but when I get super-stressed, I can't keep anything down. So, when I was in college and had a lot of stuff going on, I lost a lot of weight simply because I was vomiting up most everything I ate. I wasn't bulimic--I wasn't doing anything to make myself do it--but same end results, I guess.

I just remember a lot of people complimenting me on how much weight I had lost and asking what I was doing, and all I could think was "You seriously do not want this."

[bigskygirl]

I had a few people tell me they wish they were hyperthyroid because it can cause you to lose weight. I also notice in the information you get when I pick my thyroid med it says do not use this for weight loss. I cannot imagine taking the med for weight loss because of all the damage you can do to your body by taking something which can cause your thyroid levels to be too high. I remember what is like to be hyperthyroid, and it is not fun at all.

[lookeyloo]

2 hours ago, emma675 said:

I will shout it from the rooftops until I'm blue in the face, YOU HAVE TO CHECK FREE T3 AND FREE T4, NOT JUST TSH TO TRULY DIAGNOSE THYROID PROBLEMS! Most doctors, even endocrinologists, aren't taught anything more than TSH and patients are suffering needlessly. If your Free T3 is low your metabolism essentially grinds to a halt. I suffered for almost 10 years before I lucked upon a doctor who truly got it and helped. 

Totally agree. Endocrinologists here useless as is my internist. My oncologist is now managing my thyroid. He tests everything. I love him (but not that way)

[latetotheparty]

47 minutes ago, Zella said:

I can relate to this.

My situation wasn't like yours, but when I get super-stressed, I can't keep anything down. So, when I was in college and had a lot of stuff going on, I lost a lot of weight simply because I was vomiting up most everything I ate. I wasn't bulimic--I wasn't doing anything to make myself do it--but same end results, I guess.

I just remember a lot of people complimenting me on how much weight I had lost and asking what I was doing, and all I could think was "You seriously do not want this."

I’m sorry you went through that. It sounds horrible. *hugs*

[Zella]

16 minutes ago, latetotheparty said:

I’m sorry you went through that. It sounds horrible. *hugs*

Thank you! I was in a very stressful situation, but fortunately, once I was able to remove myself from that situation, it stopped--almost overnight. 

[NotFundie]

I'm hypothyroid too and have had ups and downs trying to get it under control and get the symptoms managed.  One of the problems with hypothyroidism is that you can end up in a brain fog and it makes it even harder to figure out what to do.

I ended up on natural thyroid medication - made from pigs' thyroids.  You have to doctor-shop a bit to get one who will write the prescription but, for me, it helped a lot.  Synthroid made my blood work look good but my symptoms were still there.  I've finally gotten my hair to stop falling out but I still have about 20 pounds to lose from the original weight gain.

[Christina87]

13 minutes ago, NotFundie said:

I'm hypothyroid too and have had ups and downs trying to get it under control and get the symptoms managed.  One of the problems with hypothyroidism is that you can end up in a brain fog and it makes it even harder to figure out what to do.

I ended up on natural thyroid medication - made from pigs' thyroids.  You have to doctor-shop a bit to get one who will write the prescription but, for me, it helped a lot.  Synthroid made my blood work look good but my symptoms were still there.  I've finally gotten my hair to stop falling out but I still have about 20 pounds to lose from the original weight gain.

How much did you gain the first time, and how quickly did it come off when you started the meds? I'm not expecting a miracle, but I just want to be able to lose. My body's holding onto this weight for dear life, when dieting has always worked for me before!

1 hour ago, Zella said:

I can relate to this.

My situation wasn't like yours, but when I get super-stressed, I can't keep anything down. So, when I was in college and had a lot of stuff going on, I lost a lot of weight simply because I was vomiting up most everything I ate. I wasn't bulimic--I wasn't doing anything to make myself do it--but same end results, I guess.

I just remember a lot of people complimenting me on how much weight I had lost and asking what I was doing, and all I could think was "You seriously do not want this."

I hate that you had to go through this! I used to stress eat in college...kind of the opposite...but it never hurt me, because I was blessed with a good metabolism then! I did lose weight after college, though, when I adopted healthier habits, and maintained it all through my twenties. 

ETA: @Zella...your story makes me think so much of a friend from college! He was anorexic, and when people complimented him on his weight loss, I wanted to punch them! I knew what was really going on, and I was the lone voice telling him he needed to eat something. Most people just thought he was on a diet, or just didn't overanalyze how skinny he was and thought weight loss = good, but he got that reaction allllll the time. Then he'd smirk and say that they wouldn't be telling him that if his anorexia was to a problem stage yet. People can be well-meaning, but say the wrong thing!

Edited April 16, 2019 by Christina87

[Christina87]

1 hour ago, Mindthinkr said:

@bigskygirl I never put 2 and 2 together about sinuses and thyroid. I’ve had the worst allergy year in my life. It’s a constant struggle and it seems like it’s been going on far too long.  I told the Doc I had green and yellow drainage from my nose and cough plus a 101.8 degree fever for over 6 days. It’s reducing, but I can tell there is still lots of congestion in my lungs. He keeps assuring me it will go away. Remember when I was so sick for 10 weeks last year and dropped to 72 lbs? He said nothing was wrong with me then either. I’m finally getting a second opinion this Wednesday. I hate to doubt him but I at the minimum want a medical professional who at least gives a hoot. 

I wish for you better health and good news on the cholesterol at least being good enough so you don’t have to take a statin. Cholesterol can be lowered with diet. I know as I’ve done it successfully. Feel better soon. 

NOTHING WRONG WITH YOU????!! Seriously?! Any adult being 72 pounds is a cause for concern. That's terrible!!!

i don't remember...are you one of us that gets migraines? There is a link between sinus problems and migraines too. I don't have terrible sinuses, but they make me more likely to get migraines. 

[Zella]

7 minutes ago, Christina87 said:

I hate that you had to go through this! I used to stress eat in college...kind of the opposite...but it never hurt me, because I was blessed with a good metabolism then! I did lose weight after college, though, when I adopted healthier habits, and maintained it all through my twenties. 

The whole thing was so weird.

I started stress-eating as a kid when my parents divorced--guess I've always had an unhealthy relationship with food--so my weight has always yo-yo'd.

But I don't know why that specific reaction with the vomiting popped up in college. Like, I know why I was stressed at that particular college and at that stage in my life, but I don't understand why that was my specific reaction to it.

It lasted right at two years, on and off. It went away as soon as I graduated, though. When I continued my education during graduate school, I was also under a lot of stress but never had any repeat issues with it and haven't for nearly 6 years, thankfully. 

Edited April 16, 2019 by Zella

[Christina87]

1 minute ago, Zella said:

The whole thing was so weird.

I started stress-eating as a kid when my parents divorced--guess I've always had an unhealthy relationship with food--so my weight has always yo-yo'd.

But I don't know why that specific reaction with the vomiting popped up in college. Like, I know why I was stressed at that particular college and at that stage in my life, but I don't understand why that was my specific reaction to it.

It went away as soon as I graduated, though. When I continued my education during graduate school, I was also under a lot of stress but never had any repeat issues with it and haven't for nearly 6 years, thankfully. 

I'm so glad you put that behind you, and it's so weird! I've never heard of that happening to anybody. It really is amazing what the body can do in response to things, especially stress. In my second year of teaching, I was sexually harassed (thankfully not actually molested or anything!), and that exact week, I started having actual stomach problems...more than cramps or just pain that could be heartburn, or even imagined. I had a very upset stomach, and I don't want to be gross, but...not a pleasant time as the food left my body, either. I was worried I was developing a real problem, but it went away a few weeks later, when the issue was resolved. Yours is scary, though. Mine was inconvenient, but you could hypothetically die from not keeping food down! Must have felt like having the flu all the time. Hugs! I really hope it never happens to you again, no matter how stressful life gets!!!

[Zella]

22 minutes ago, Christina87 said:

I'm so glad you put that behind you, and it's so weird! I've never heard of that happening to anybody. It really is amazing what the body can do in response to things, especially stress. In my second year of teaching, I was sexually harassed (thankfully not actually molested or anything!), and that exact week, I started having actual stomach problems...more than cramps or just pain that could be heartburn, or even imagined. I had a very upset stomach, and I don't want to be gross, but...not a pleasant time as the food left my body, either. I was worried I was developing a real problem, but it went away a few weeks later, when the issue was resolved. Yours is scary, though. Mine was inconvenient, but you could hypothetically die from not keeping food down! Must have felt like having the flu all the time. Hugs! I really hope it never happens to you again, no matter how stressful life gets!!!

Yeah it is crazy how the body can react to stress! I'm glad your situation worked out, too! 

[SunnyBeBe]

I want to thank everyone again for your kind words after I posted about the death of my dear friend last week.  I was able to attend the service and it did help. I was surprised, because, I thought it was going to be even more distressful than getting news of his death, but,  our mutual friends arrived, we hugged, gave support to each other and I think that he would be proud of us. I ended up feeling better, talking with his family, seeing all the photos taken over the course of his life, sharing stories of him and our photos, etc. They had a nice reception afterwards, so we could mingle and share our favorite memories.  His mom wants me to come and see her and I said I would.  I feel strong enough now. It still hurts every day, but, I will get through it.

One thing I liked, is when you walked into the foyer, they had a table with small tree plants tied with a bow and card that said, plant in memory of my friend.  I took one and am planting it this week.  My friend loved nature, fishing, wildlife, sunsets, etc.  So, they had an original floral piece on his casket of dogwood, magnolia, greenery, wood, etc.  It was so fitting. Everything about the event was just like him.  

[Mindthinkr]

18 minutes ago, SunnyBeBe said:

One thing I liked, is when you walked into the foyer, they had a table with small tree plants tied with a bow and card that said, plant in memory of my friend. 

My friend from HS sadly lost his brother late last year. The 4 siblings divided up his ashes and my friend didn’t know what to do with his portion. I offered to take it and plant a tree over him (I was replanting after hurricane Florence). So I called him after selecting the tree and told him I was going to plant a Kwanza flowering cherry tree over him. He said “How did you know?”  I said: Know what? He told me that their last name in Polish meant cherry. I was stunned. I had Marty planted the first week of November. My friend came to visit 2 weeks ago. The tree has grown over a foot and all the branches have blossoms. Even my neighbors and friends call the tree Marty and everyone says hello to him. My friend is grateful that when he visits he can see his brother and it was a fitting setting. 

I like that now you too will be able to plant a tree in your friends honor. 

[SunnyBeBe]

3 minutes ago, Mindthinkr said:

My friend from HS sadly lost his brother late last year. The 4 siblings divided up his ashes and my friend didn’t know what to do with his portion. I offered to take it and plant a tree over him (I was replanting after hurricane Florence). So I called him after selecting the tree and told him I was going to plant a Kwanza flowering cherry tree over him. He said “How did you know?”  I said: Know what? He told me that their last name in Polish meant cherry. I was stunned. I had Marty planted the first week of November. My friend came to visit 2 weeks ago. The tree has grown over a foot and all the branches have blossoms. Even my neighbors and friends call the tree Marty and everyone says hello to him. My friend is grateful that when he visits he can see his brother and it was a fitting setting. 

I like that now you too will be able to plant a tree in your friends honor. 

That's a lovely story.  It's good that we will have a living reminder of our friends and the earth will benefit too. 

[Christina87]

Ok guys, I have a weird etiquette question that I'd just like to hear an unbiased opinion on. I don't intend to complain about this or try to change it, but I just personally think it's weird as heck. 

The night before Easter, my friend's (that I live with) brother wants to have a birthday party at our house. Of course my friend said yes! He invited a lot of people, advertising it as a cookout / dinner.

When I heard the date, honestly, I felt a little funny. The day before Easter IS his birthday, but it's asking people to give up a lot. I'm sure I'm not the only one who would like to spend Good Friday and the weekend with my family, but I'll have to wait to go home until after the cookout, and we have a 6:30 am service the next morning. It's going to put strain on me and my family, but I weighed this and still decided to stay for it, because I feel I should help my friend clean and prepare for it, and it sounded like fun!

suddenly, however, Bro has decided to go on a diet, and only wants fruits and vegetables at the party. He said maybe a deli meat tray would also be okay. He is extremely obese, and kind of aimless with no direction in life. He's been unemployed for about as long as I have, and has made no effort to even attempt to lose weight until right now. In my friend's words, "he wants to START eating healthy now." If he were a dedicated dieter, I would understand, but I think this is a, "holy crap! I'm getting older!" knee jerk reaction, and it seems a little ridiculous. He's has almost a year with no commitments (he lives with their dad, who doesn't expect much. He moved up here from another state when his girlfriend dumped him). Yet he hasn't made the slightest effort to eat healthy or exercise, while complaining about being fat, with everyone encouraging him. His whole family has repeatedly told him that THIS is the time to get healthy, yet he's just continued to eat badly and complain for almost a year now.  It's like...why start at his birthday party?

i'm torn, because on one hand, it's his birthday, and he should have what he wants. I would hate if he felt pressured to eat badly, and it made him even more depressed about his age. At the same time, I would be more behind this if the party was A) on a different date, or B) only for the family. I also would feel differently if he was on a roll with a diet already and succeeding, where one bad day could knock him off the wagon. Plus he has no plan for his diet; he'll probably go extreme and eat only fruits and veggies for two or three days, and then go back to being unhealthy. I hate to say it, but that's what's going to happen. Why ruin his party in the process?

I don't want to discourage anyone from eating healthy, but damn! I feel like if you have invited people to your party on the guise that it's a cookout and dinner, they will expect hamburgers and hotdogs, cake, desserts, side dishes, and probably alcohol. My friend and I are more than happy to make / get all these things for him, and even pay for them! I know the birthday person should have what they want, as it's their day, but I also think you should consider what your guests want, especially if you're asking them to give up a holiday eve with their family. I said yes wholeheartedly when I thought it was a real cookout, but now I'm going to have to miss Easter weekend with my family, go to the "party," eat a real meal after, and then drive home, only to be up for the sunrise service. I can't be the only one who thinks that's a crazy proposition? I just think it would also be rude to back out now. 

I just feel like, if I were in his shoes, i would make one of these choices:

realize I've had a year to start dieting and haven't, so I'll just enjoy a cookout and cake for one day, and then diet. He didn't get obese in one day, so celebrating his birthday won't make a real difference. 

Cancel the party

At least warn my guests that it's a fruit and vegetable party and let them decide if they still want to come. 

Cancel the party and have a fruit / veggie thing with my family, who would want to be with me on Easter anyway, and would be supportive of my eating  

realize my guests gave up the day before Easter, and probably expect Easter-themed treats as well, so just go ahead and have the party, but practice willpower and only eat fruit myself  

Honestly, not telling the guests about the menu seems kind of selfish to me, but denying the birthday boy what he wants does too. I can't decide how I feel about it!

Edited April 16, 2019 by Christina87

[jammaker]

15 hours ago, bigskygirl said:

I ask my endocrinologist about why it took longer for me to feel better after I took my thyroid medication in the morning, and he told me it depends on the dosage. Some people it can be about a week for the medication to start doing its job, and some people it can take affect within a few hours of taking it. I notice in the morning I can feel crappy after getting out of bed, but by mid day I start feeling better. I am tempted on asking him if your sinuses or allergies act up could it cause wacky thyroid hormone levels. I know when either one acts up it feels like all my medical issues kick in. He did tell me weather changes or changes in the seasons can cause thyroid levels to change.

Total lurker here, but I felt the urge to reply to this.

When I asked my endocrinologist about the morning drag, she added liothyronine to my regimen. It's T3 already so my body doesn't have to convert it, and it made a huge difference in symptoms. I take a little of that each morning and it gives my body the jumpstart it needs while my body works on the levothyroxine. 

Also sympathizing with all the weight-gain posts. I've gained 100 lbs in the past 10 years, most very rapidly. I have no thryoid anymore, I'm stuck on hormones because of endometriosis and nothing I do takes the weight off. It's awful.

[Ohiopirate02]

23 minutes ago, Christina87 said:

Ok guys, I have a weird etiquette question that I'd just like to hear an unbiased opinion on. I don't intend to complain about this or try to change it, but I just personally think it's weird as heck. 

The night before Easter, my friend's (that I live with) brother wants to have a birthday party at our house. Of course my friend said yes! He invited a lot of people, advertising it as a cookout / dinner.

When I heard the date, honestly, I felt a little funny. The day before Easter IS his birthday, but it's asking people to give up a lot. I'm sure I'm not the only one who would like to spend Good Friday and the weekend with my family, but I'll have to wait to go home until after the cookout, and we have a 6:30 am service the next morning. It's going to put strain on me and my family, but I weighed this and still decided to stay for it, because I feel I should help my friend clean and prepare for it, and it sounded like fun!

suddenly, however, Bro has decided to go on a diet, and only wants fruits and vegetables at the party. He said maybe a deli meat tray would also be okay. He is extremely obese, and kind of aimless with no direction in life. He's been unemployed for about as long as I have, and has made no effort to even attempt to lose weight until right now. In my friend's words, "he wants to START eating healthy now." If he were a dedicated dieter, I would understand, but I think this is a, "holy crap! I'm getting older!" knee jerk reaction, and it seems a little ridiculous. He's has almost a year with no commitments (he lives with their dad, who doesn't expect much. He moved up here from another state when his girlfriend dumped him). Yet he hasn't made the slightest effort to eat healthy or exercise, while complaining about being fat, with everyone encouraging him. His whole family has repeatedly told him that THIS is the time to get healthy, yet he's just continued to eat badly and complain for almost a year now.  It's like...why start at his birthday party?

i'm torn, because on one hand, it's his birthday, and he should have what he wants. I would hate if he felt pressured to eat badly, and it made him even more depressed about his age. At the same time, I would be more behind this if the party was A) on a different date, or B) only for the family. I also would feel differently if he was on a roll with a diet already and succeeding, where one bad day could knock him off the wagon. Plus he has no plan for his diet; he'll probably go extreme and eat only fruits and veggies for two or three days, and then go back to being unhealthy. I hate to say it, but that's what's going to happen. Why ruin his party in the process?

I don't want to discourage anyone from eating healthy, but damn! I feel like if you have invited people to your party on the guise that it's a cookout and dinner, they will expect hamburgers and hotdogs, cake, desserts, side dishes, and probably alcohol. My friend and I are more than happy to make / get all these things for him, and even pay for them! I know the birthday person should have what they want, as it's their day, but I also think you should consider what your guests want, especially if you're asking them to give up a holiday eve with their family. I said yes wholeheartedly when I thought it was a real cookout, but now I'm going to have to miss Easter weekend with my family, go to the "party," eat a real meal after, and then drive home, only to be up for the sunrise service. I can't be the only one who thinks that's a crazy proposition? I just think it would also be rude to back out now. 

I just feel like, if I were in his shoes, i would make one of these choices:

realize I've had a year to start dieting and haven't, so I'll just enjoy a cookout and cake for one day, and then diet. He didn't get obese in one day, so celebrating his birthday won't make a real difference. 

Cancel the party

At least warn my guests that it's a fruit and vegetable party and let them decide if they still want to come. 

Cancel the party and have a fruit / veggie thing with my family, who would want to be with me on Easter anyway, and would be supportive of my eating  

realize my guests gave up the day before Easter, and probably expect Easter-themed treats as well, so just go ahead and have the party, but practice willpower and only eat fruit myself  

Honestly, not telling the guests about the menu seems kind of selfish to me, but denying the birthday boy what he wants does too. I can't decide how I feel about it!

It sounds like it is too late to back out now.  I do feel like you need to give the birthday boy what he is asking for, but I would send out a text or email to the guests to politely tell them of the last minute change of menu.  That way they know what they are getting into and can plan accordingly.   You could also respect that he wants to eat healthy and still grill out with chicken and vegetables.  

[Christina87]

37 minutes ago, Ohiopirate02 said:

It sounds like it is too late to back out now.  I do feel like you need to give the birthday boy what he is asking for, but I would send out a text or email to the guests to politely tell them of the last minute change of menu.  That way they know what they are getting into and can plan accordingly.   You could also respect that he wants to eat healthy and still grill out with chicken and vegetables.  

I definitely think notifying the guests would be a good thing. How should I bring this up to my friend? I don't want to sound too critical or judgmental. I just feel bad for the guests, with it being a holiday weekend at all; they probably gave up other plans that they would have chosen if they'd known about the menu. I think I would also feel differently if he were a close friend, because I'd want to be there, no matter what. I feel like many of the guests are in this boat...people who used to be friends with him, but haven't seen him in awhile, and enjoyed the idea of a traditional cookout / birthday celebration / probably Easter and candy thing. Oh well, too late now! But I definitely don't want to surprise them when they were expecting something else, or hurt the birthday boy or anyone else's feelings!

[Mindthinkr]

@Christina87 Is there alcohol being served at the party? Alcohol turns to sugar soon after it hits the bloodstream. It can make someone gain weight especially because people don’t count the mixers in their drinks. 

I know because you are such a nice kind person for thinking about how everyone will feel that this party will come out ok. Yes, some people may be disappointed, but the whole point is to make the Bday person feel good. Do the best that you can between the party obligations and your family. It will be good enough. 

[doodlebug]

53 minutes ago, Christina87 said:

I definitely think notifying the guests would be a good thing. How should I bring this up to my friend? I don't want to sound too critical or judgmental. I just feel bad for the guests, with it being a holiday weekend at all; they probably gave up other plans that they would have chosen if they'd known about the menu. I think I would also feel differently if he were a close friend, because I'd want to be there, no matter what. I feel like many of the guests are in this boat...people who used to be friends with him, but haven't seen him in awhile, and enjoyed the idea of a traditional cookout / birthday celebration / probably Easter and candy thing. Oh well, too late now! But I definitely don't want to surprise them when they were expecting something else, or hurt the birthday boy or anyone else's feelings!

I agree that you need to respect the birthday boy's wishes, but, considering it seems like he is the one who wanted the party in the first place and then seemingly coerced his sister and you into hosting it in your home; I think you get a say in the planning.   If it must be on the actual birthday despite the holiday; then he can do the work.  If  he only wants raw veggies to eat, then he can notify the other guests and cut them up himself.

First off, it might be too late now, but, in the future, I'd recommend you decide what it is you want to do and do that.  If you had plans to spend the weekend with your family, then it is fine to say so, you shouldn't feel obligated to your friend or her brother.  A simple, 'Oh, I'm sorry, but that's a holiday weekend and I've already made plans' would suffice.  If he really wanted or needed you there, the party could easily happen on a different weekend.  He's not a child, it doesn't have to be on his birthday.

I certainly think it is terrific that her brother has decided to eat healthier and there are ways to do that without feeling like a martyr.  There's no reason why you couldn't grill chicken kabobs for the dinner.  The protein in the chicken is filling and her brother should appreciate that.  For dessert, you could always go with fresh fruit, etc.  If her brother wants to only eat from a very narrow list of foods, that's fine for him, but not sustainable and nobody should expect their guests to adhere to a strict diet too.  There are lots of low fat options for a cookout type meal: grill some vegetables, serve salads, etc.  If her brother really insists on only serving from a restricted menu, then I think it is fine to tell him he can notify his guests so that people who don't want to eat like that can get a bite before they arrive.  For that matter, if I were you, I'd let them know that you plan to go out for a real dinner an hour or two before the festivities begin.

[Christina87]

1 hour ago, doodlebug said:

I agree that you need to respect the birthday boy's wishes, but, considering it seems like he is the one who wanted the party in the first place and then seemingly coerced his sister and you into hosting it in your home; I think you get a say in the planning.   If it must be on the actual birthday despite the holiday; then he can do the work.  If  he only wants raw veggies to eat, then he can notify the other guests and cut them up himself.

First off, it might be too late now, but, in the future, I'd recommend you decide what it is you want to do and do that.  If you had plans to spend the weekend with your family, then it is fine to say so, you shouldn't feel obligated to your friend or her brother.  A simple, 'Oh, I'm sorry, but that's a holiday weekend and I've already made plans' would suffice.  If he really wanted or needed you there, the party could easily happen on a different weekend.  He's not a child, it doesn't have to be on his birthday.

I certainly think it is terrific that her brother has decided to eat healthier and there are ways to do that without feeling like a martyr.  There's no reason why you couldn't grill chicken kabobs for the dinner.  The protein in the chicken is filling and her brother should appreciate that.  For dessert, you could always go with fresh fruit, etc.  If her brother wants to only eat from a very narrow list of foods, that's fine for him, but not sustainable and nobody should expect their guests to adhere to a strict diet too.  There are lots of low fat options for a cookout type meal: grill some vegetables, serve salads, etc.  If her brother really insists on only serving from a restricted menu, then I think it is fine to tell him he can notify his guests so that people who don't want to eat like that can get a bite before they arrive.  For that matter, if I were you, I'd let them know that you plan to go out for a real dinner an hour or two before the festivities begin.

I think these are all such good points!!! It just kind of shocked me, because he said he only wanted vegetable trays, because he didn't want us to go to any trouble. It's silly, because I would rather work hard on making the party nice, and enjoy it, than slap a few veggie trays on the table and regret being there. I'll definitely suggest to her when she gets home that we offer to do the veggies in a fun way (kabobs, grilled chicken, etc) and see what she thinks. It seems weird to me that he doesn't mind inconveniencing us by having the party here, on a holiday weekend, but then just wants us to grab veggie trays? It's just weird. I have a feeling that only wanting veggie trays has more to do with the diet than worrying about inconveniencing us, as his family says he will suddenly decide to eat healthy, and will be scared of even a little olive oil for a day or two, and then go back to constant McDonald's. I think he THINKS clean eating is just raw fruits and veggies for every meal, and then he doesn't find it sustainable and quits.

I love to host parties, and I always get a thrill out of planning the menu, and making sure I have plenty of foods that all my guests will love. I just kind of feel bad for hosting a party that looks so low effort, that most of the guests will probably not enjoy (although hopefully they will enjoy each other). I'd rather put some real effort into it...go big or go home! And I just can't imagine forcing my guests to adhere to my strict diet of one day, even if it were a doctor ordered diet. If I promised them a cookout, then they'd have a dang good cookout! I don't think he's trying to be inconsiderate, and of course it's his day, but I don't think it would ever occur to him that he's compromising the experience for his guests. In fact, he might think he's doing them a favor by making them eat veggies too!

Edited April 16, 2019 by Christina87

[Christina87]

1 hour ago, Mindthinkr said:

@Christina87 Is there alcohol being served at the party? Alcohol turns to sugar soon after it hits the bloodstream. It can make someone gain weight especially because people don’t count the mixers in their drinks. 

I know because you are such a nice kind person for thinking about how everyone will feel that this party will come out ok. Yes, some people may be disappointed, but the whole point is to make the Bday person feel good. Do the best that you can between the party obligations and your family. It will be good enough. 

Awwww thanks! You are too sweet. And I think alcohol was on the list at the beginning, but not now. I wonder if he wants sodas? I don't drink soda, but I buy it for others if I have a party. I guess I'll have to ask lol!

[lookeyloo]

4 hours ago, jammaker said:

Total lurker here, but I felt the urge to reply to this.

When I asked my endocrinologist about the morning drag, she added liothyronine to my regimen. It's T3 already so my body doesn't have to convert it, and it made a huge difference in symptoms. I take a little of that each morning and it gives my body the jumpstart it needs while my body works on the levothyroxine. 

Also sympathizing with all the weight-gain posts. I've gained 100 lbs in the past 10 years, most very rapidly. I have no thryoid anymore, I'm stuck on hormones because of endometriosis and nothing I do takes the weight off. It's awful.

The T3 was a game changer for me too.  I have a sustained release made at the compounding pharmacy.  Not all doctors think it is necessary.  Luckily I found one who did.

[Christina87]

Guess what, guys? Party update! Apparently their family felt the same as me (though I never complained about it!). His parents told him that if he insisted on eating raw veggies, he should change the date and make it a smaller thing. So he changed it to Friday (not much difference, but a lot better!) and it's basically going to just be family / close friends. I'm so relieved! That way I can still go home Friday night, and spend most of the weekend with my family. I think it's funny that his parents also thought it was dumb to promise a cookout and then feed his guests his strict diet. Parents for the win!!!

[bigskygirl]

28 minutes ago, lookeyloo said:

The T3 was a game changer for me too.  I have a sustained release made at the compounding pharmacy.  Not all doctors think it is necessary.  Luckily I found one who did.

I was told my medication is a slow release one. 1 out of 10 patients can become sensitive to it. Right now I feel like crap because the weather changed again with snow this morning. My body and thyroid levels do not know which way to go. I like this time of year, but my thyroid levels along with my sinuses and allergies do not.

[SunnyBeBe]

13 minutes ago, Christina87 said:

Guess what, guys? Party update! Apparently their family felt the same as me (though I never complained about it!). His parents told him that if he insisted on eating raw veggies, he should change the date and make it a smaller thing. So he changed it to Friday (not much difference, but a lot better!) and it's basically going to just be family / close friends. I'm so relieved! That way I can still go home Friday night, and spend most of the weekend with my family. I think it's funny that his parents also thought it was dumb to promise a cookout and then feed his guests his strict diet. Parents for the win!!!

Great news. I completely agree with you.  I'm a good hostess too and I try to accommodate all guests.  While I have to be very careful with my diet, (I'm new on an insulin Pump and counting carbs is super important), I don't expect others to eat like me. Make it nice and make it delicious, but, if he really wants raw veggies at a small gathering, then, let him go for it. lol  One thing about having only raw veggies and no alcohol at the gathering....people won't stay long and it will be OVER quick.  lol I take it there is no cake either. lol   Some people aren't very good at hosting parties, cookouts, etc.  I think that he may be one of those people.  They mean well, but, just don't have the experience. 

Edited April 16, 2019 by SunnyBeBe

[NotFundie]

19 hours ago, Christina87 said:

How much did you gain the first time, and how quickly did it come off when you started the meds? I'm not expecting a miracle, but I just want to be able to lose. My body's holding onto this weight for dear life, when dieting has always worked for me before!

I hate that you had to go through this! I used to stress eat in college...kind of the opposite...but it never hurt me, because I was blessed with a good metabolism then! I did lose weight after college, though, when I adopted healthier habits, and maintained it all through my twenties. 

I gained about 45-50 pounds and the 25-30 that I lost came off in about a year - but that was after I was up to my optimum dosage.  I've had luck since then in cutting out wheat, dairy, and sugar to lose weight but it's just too hard to stick with.  Currently, I'm still stuck with the 20 extra pounds.

[Zella]

I'm glad your party situation got resolved, Christina, because my response was that he kinda came off as a low-key jerk. (Like, I'm sure he's a nice person and everything, but the way he approached everything just seemed gloriously un-self-aware. Glad the family stepped in rather than enabling him.) @SunnyBeBe's observation that he might just be clueless about party-planning might very well explain it.

Personally, I am no party planner--like, I'm about on Johnny's level in Deadwood: "How much fruit? I mean, how many’s a fuckin’ get together?"--but I still think it's pretty rude to foist all that off on other people and then be really picky and demanding about it. 

I would think, though, just because you're roommates and friends with his sister doesn't mean you're obligated to attend or even co-host those kinds of events in the future, especially if you already have plans with your family. 

[Christina87]

52 minutes ago, Zella said:

I'm glad your party situation got resolved, Christina, because my response was that he kinda came off as a low-key jerk. (Like, I'm sure he's a nice person and everything, but the way he approached everything just seemed gloriously un-self-aware. Glad the family stepped in rather than enabling him.) @SunnyBeBe's observation that he might just be clueless about party-planning might very well explain it.

Personally, I am no party planner--like, I'm about on Johnny's level in Deadwood: "How much fruit? I mean, how many’s a fuckin’ get together?"--but I still think it's pretty rude to foist all that off on other people and then be really picky and demanding about it. 

I would think, though, just because you're roommates and friends with his sister doesn't mean you're obligated to attend or even co-host those kinds of events in the future, especially if you already have plans with your family. 

Agreed with every word, Zella! 😃 He's not a bad guy, but like you said, not self-aware. He doesn't really have a lot of close friends, and is kind of socially awkward. I think that it's safe to say that he has not hosted many dinner parties himself, haha! May explain why he foisted it off on his much more sociable sister. 😜

I'll help you with your party planning! I love hosting. Too bad we don't live close. We could have a grand duggar dinner party with tater tot casserole and cream of crap tortillas...and some edible food too, of course! All are invited! 👍🏻

[Zella]

12 minutes ago, Christina87 said:

I'll help you with your party planning! I love hosting. Too bad we don't live close. We could have a grand duggar dinner party with tater tot casserole and cream of crap tortillas...and some edible food too, of course! All are invited! 👍🏻

That would be awesome! 😄

[Mindthinkr]

10 hours ago, Zella said:

Personally, I am no party planner--like, I'm about on Johnny's level in Deadwood: "How much fruit? I mean, how many’s a fuckin’ get together?"--

Now I need to know...cinnamon for the peaches or did Dan tell you no unauthorized cinnamon? May 31st is the premiere of the new Deadwood movie. 

[bigskygirl]

21 hours ago, jammaker said:

Total lurker here, but I felt the urge to reply to this.

When I asked my endocrinologist about the morning drag, she added liothyronine to my regimen. It's T3 already so my body doesn't have to convert it, and it made a huge difference in symptoms. I take a little of that each morning and it gives my body the jumpstart it needs while my body works on the levothyroxine. 

Also sympathizing with all the weight-gain posts. I've gained 100 lbs in the past 10 years, most very rapidly. I have no thryoid anymore, I'm stuck on hormones because of endometriosis and nothing I do takes the weight off. It's awful.

I started gaining weight after I started treatment for Graves Disease with medication. My primary care provider I had at the time was surprised I gain 10 to 15 pounds within a month after I started the one med along with a blood pressure med. Once my blood pressure started getting under control, and I went off the med, I started to lose weight. My weight keeps going up and down. I have gained around 25 pounds in the last few years between the endometriosis, menopause, and hypothyroidism. I wish I had the same doctor I had when I was first diagnosed with Graves Disease. My primary care provider was the one who monitored my thyroid medication dosage and everything related to my thyroid and did an excellent job to the point I was starting to feel good within a three to six months period after I started treatment.

And here is my I will shout it from the roof until I lose my voice suggestion. If an endocrinologist or another doctor highly suggests a radiation iodine treatment to treat Graves Disease, try to get a second opinion. If your blood tests look good around the time you and the doctor plan the iodine treatment, and the doctor keeps pushing the treatment, try to get a second opinion. I wish I did because my blood tests showed two months before treatment my hyperthyroidism was under control, and I was feeling better. I do not want anyone on here to go through the he** I have been through since early 2013.