Small Talk: I Like Them All, I Just Can't Choose!

[Snark Byte]

On 6/15/2017 at 3:11 PM, ennui said:

Yes. Even the radio in the car irritates me, and lately I drive without it. I listen to the engine's hum, and it's like being in the womb. Very calming, actually. 

I can't tolerate the radio any more. I listen to a Craig Chaquico CD, which to me, is like musical soul restoration!

Edited June 17, 2017 by Snark Byte

[lovemesomejoolery]

42 minutes ago, Snark Byte said:

I can't tolerate the radio any more. I listen to a Craig Chaquico CD, which to me, is like musical soul restoration!

 

That's nice!

[ennui]

5 hours ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

I actually have had a few calls on my cell phone from numbers THAT WERE MY OWN CELL NUMBER!!

The first time it happened, I thought I was losing my mind!

I get phishing emails from myself. I just laugh. 

On 6/16/2017 at 7:28 AM, Lord Donia said:

the female showrunner talked about the very specific, bright esthetic of the area: "When you go to Florida, it's not all black clothing. People are wearing colors and they are unapologetic about wearing colors."

Miami Vice. "No earth tones."

[SuprSuprElevated]

@Coffeecup - 

Really feel badly about your nightmare experience with the PET.  My only question is if there is any alternative diagnostic test that can tell the Docs what they need to know?  I know with treating cancer, the attempt to cure is so harsh on the body.  As far as we have come in this area, I'm hopeful that the medical community can keep on pushing for less invasive, dangerous 'cures'.  

I hope your tests reveal things that are favorable to you.  Hoping you feel better very soon.

[Bronx Babe]

On 6/15/2017 at 8:56 PM, CanuckGal said:

(( hugs )) xo

Thanks so much, @CanuckGal

[Bronx Babe]

On 6/15/2017 at 5:10 AM, DownTheShore said:

Oh Bronx Babe! I just found out about your Mom's passing. My sincerest condolences on your loss. I'm not usually on this thread; I saw a sympathy post to you on the shopping thread and wondered what had happened.

You always wrote of her with affection in the tone of your posts, so I know this is going to be a hard time for you. No matter how old we are, losing our mom hurts. If the hospice offers grief counseling, please take advantage of it. I thought that I could power through my grief when my Mom died, but looking back over the past 10+ years, I can now see how much of a depression I slid into for too many years.

You are in my prayers, my friend.?

@DownTheShore  Thank you so much my friend for those generous and kind words.   So very sorry about your own mom's passing.  I'm glad you were able to gain some comfort and solace through grief counseling. 

Mom's funeral is Monday and I heard from some out-of-state relatives who are flying in to attend, so I'm grateful.  Afterwards we are all going to one of my mother's favorite delis and raise a few nova-with-bagels in her honor.

Edited June 17, 2017 by Bronx Babe

[TexasTiffany]

@Coffeecup, thank you for your thorough description. I'm sorry that happened to you. Medical people should know that you need SOMETHING to listen to or think about while waiting 1-1/2 hours. Some music, tv, books, magazines or SOMETHING. 

I did laugh at the end. Here you are telling such an intense story and you add that movie poster! "Attack of the 50 ft Woman" LOLOL!

[Julie hunter]

54 minutes ago, Bronx Babe said:

@DownTheShore  Thank you so much my friend for those generous and kind words.   So very sorry about your own mom's passing.  I'm glad you were able to gain some comfort and solace through grief counseling. 

Mom's funeral is Monday and I heard from some out-of-state relatives who are flying in to attend, so I'm grateful.  Afterwards we are all going to one of my mother's favorite delis and raise a few nova-with-bagels in her honor.

Monday, especially, you will be in my thoughts.

[DownTheShore]

3 hours ago, Snark Byte said:

I can't tolerate the radio any more. I listen to a Craig Chaquico CD, which to me, is like musical soul restoration!

Never heard of him before, so thanks for that!

I like R. Carlos Nakai's music to decompress.

[ennui]

Today's PSA -- I had a small sample tube of Benefit Pore-something. I really like it and bought the full size, but was working on getting the last bit out of the sample. I was thinking the tube was finally empty, but this a.m., I cut the end off the tube, and holy cow! There's a few more days in there!

I spent most of my life being a spendthrift, but now my goal is for moths to fly out of my wallet. Le sigh.

Thoughts with you, Cricket. But I'd be tempted to look at that CD!

[TexasTiffany]

3 hours ago, Lord Donia said:

That's horrible, @Coffeecup. I'm sorry you had such a bad experience

Many years ago I had a 6-hour glucose tolerance test for low blood sugar that required me to remain in the clinic the whole time. I got frantically hungry in the middle of it and ate some crackers from a vending machine. When my doctor was reviewing the results, he mentioned that my glucose was very low at one point but then self corrected. Sure. If by self-corrected, you mean Wheat Thins. I never admitted to him that I had spoiled the result. You're definitely not alone.

Apologies in advance to what I'm sure are many wonderful people who work in these fields, but my experience has been that medical techs (x-ray, CT scans, phlebotomists, cardiac stress tests, pulmonary function, etc.) are pretty cold -- their goal is to get people in and out. No chat, no explanations, no reassurances. I have what I suppose is a mild phobia about eating things I find disgusting, which unfortunately includes barium. The last time I was scheduled for a barium swallow test, I was anxious and upset and carefully explained to the Radiologist and assistant that I was probably going to gag and to please not shout at me. Which I did, and they did. Sorry for ruining YOUR day, guys!

That's awful! When do these people separate themselves from being human? It should happen to them so they'll understand.

Years ago, I had to see a periodontist. He told me that my orthodontist messed up my teeth starting when I was 13 years old. He said too many of my teeth had been pulled and my teeth didn't line up. My bite is all over the place because I don't know where my teeth go. They put me in braces too early, he said probably to get his money then rather than waiting a year or two. As a result I needed to have bone grafts to some of my teeth, deep scaling and root planing and it cost $5,000 since I didn't have any dental insurance at the time. He explained how he'd be cutting my gums and where, etc. I told him I needed to go out in the hall and cry, but I'd come back in a few minutes. In 2 later visits he said "oh, you're the one who cried." Well YEAH! You dumbSHIT dingdong! 

To this day, I still have all my natural teeth thank God, but that periodontist's attitude was crap. I have to do more to take care of my teeth now. Sometimes the side of my mouth hurts because more of the root of several teeth is exposed on that side. It's also affected my nerves which causes me to involuntarily bite myself sometimes. As a result I do more mouth twitching pursing of lips etc. than some people, which reminds me of Lisa R's mouth problems. I can't help it. I talk a lot so it's not as noticeable but I notice. 

There's no movie poster for "Pissed Periodontal Patient".

[Snark Byte]

38 minutes ago, DownTheShore said:

Never heard of him before, so thanks for that!

I'm sure you heard him, though- he was a founding member and guitarist for Jefferson Starship.

[rcc]

18 hours ago, Lord Donia said:

I just checked the .gov Do Not Call site and confirmed that my number has been registered since 2006. Pfft.

In happy, ful-filling news -- chili and cornbread for dinner! Ice cold milk, naturally (sue me, I still like it).

I had signed up years ago too. A couple of months ago I started getting calls from a company trying to sell me a car warranty. My neighbor too. I never answered but looked up the number and it was SPAM. I called the do not call gov number to see if I was still listed and I had my number "refreshed". No more calls. I guess we should refresh our phone number every year or so.

[lovemesomejoolery]

2 hours ago, Bronx Babe said:

@DownTheShore  Thank you so much my friend for those generous and kind words.   So very sorry about your own mom's passing.  I'm glad you were able to gain some comfort and solace through grief counseling. 

Mom's funeral is Monday and I heard from some out-of-state relatives who are flying in to attend, so I'm grateful.  Afterwards we are all going to one of my mother's favorite delis and raise a few nova-with-bagels in her honor.

Thinking of you, BB!

[Thumper]

Coffeecup, thank you for that thorough explanation of your horrible PET scan experience.  They should have provided you with written explanations of what to expect prior to the procedure!  I would think some calming music while you waited might be patient-friendly, too.  Also -- no one checked on you???!!!! Terrible.

I had a stress test done last year.  I did get information prior to the test, which was helpful.  But I thought my head was going to explode by the end of it!!!  Really.  My head hurt so bad and I was so hot.  One of the techs was more sympathetic and helpful, but I was scared and VERY thirsty.  No one had suggested I bring a bottle of water to have afterwards, nor did they offer me one.  I had such a bad headache, I was afraid to leave right away, although I pretended to be braver than I felt.  The nurse did not seem concerned, said my bp was fine and that I probably needed some caffeine.

So, I mentioned this not-so-patient sensitive experience to my sister, who was a CFO of a small hospital, and another sister, who is a nurse.  Finance sister said she thinks some medical staff are just so used to procedures that they see as routine, they forget it is not routine to the rest of us!  Both sisters suggested I write a letter to administration to let them know -- that it might be a way to see that procedures are improved.  I never wrote the letter; probably would have made me feel better at least.  At any rate, her comments helped me see that it isn't always intentional.

Apologies for the length.

Edited June 17, 2017 by Thumper

[DownTheShore]

1 hour ago, ennui said:

Today's PSA -- I had a small sample tube of Benefit Pore-something. I really like it and bought the full size, but was working on getting the last bit out of the sample. I was thinking the tube was finally empty, but this a.m., I cut the end off the tube, and holy cow! There's a few more days in there!

I spent most of my life being a spendthrift, but now my goal is for moths to fly out of my wallet. Le sigh.

Thoughts with you, Cricket. But I'd be tempted to look at that CD!

Isn't it funny how some things we'll try to get the last drop out of (I'm looking at you, toothpaste tube) while other things we'll toss out without a second thought.

Watching "The Master of Ballantrae" on TCM. Somehow I never managed to see that one before.

[Julie hunter]

3 hours ago, Snark Byte said:

I'm sure you heard him, though- he was a founding member and guitarist for Jefferson Starship.

Nm

Edited June 17, 2017 by Julie hunter

[zxy556575]

8 hours ago, TexasTiffany said:

I told him I needed to go out in the hall and cry, but I'd come back in a few minutes. In 2 later visits he said "oh, you're the one who cried." Well YEAH! You dumbSHIT dingdong!

I'm going to remember that for my next mental insult!

But tears, man. I'm one of those people whose every emotion comes out as tears -- nervousness, anger, frustration, shock, fear, happiness, sympathy -- just everything. I really dislike it about myself, especially when I'm having a firm conversation with some company rep, trying to make a point about bad service. The worst, of course, is crying at work. Gah!

6 hours ago, Thumper said:

So, I mentioned this not-so-patient sensitive experience to my sister, who was a CFO of a small hospital, and another sister, who is a nurse.  Finance sister said she thinks some medical staff are just so used to procedures that they see as routine, they forget it is not routine to the rest of us!  Both sisters suggested I write a letter to administration to let them know -- that it might be a way to see that procedures are improved.  I never wrote the letter; probably would have made me feel better at least.  At any rate, her comments helped me see that it isn't always intentional.

I agree it's not intentional. Patients certainly don't expect the person taking a blood sample to be our best friend, but there are times when, say, a needle-phobic patient needs a bit of extra patience and understanding. I did once write a complaint letter about an MRI tech; who knows what came of it but I felt better getting if off my chest. On the other side, I've written three letters to specifically thank health care workers, so positive interactions have been much more frequent overall.

Edited June 18, 2017 by Lord Donia

[Julie hunter]

1 hour ago, DownTheShore said:

Isn't it funny how some things we'll try to get the last drop out of (I'm looking at you, toothpaste tube) while other things we'll toss out without a second thought.

Watching "The Master of Ballantrae" on TCM. Somehow I never managed to see that one before.

I had that on too.  Wanted to see Earol Flynn.

[TexasTiffany]

I like your new avatars, @lovemesomjoolery and @SuprSuprElevated. They make me smile.

[Julie hunter]

5 minutes ago, TexasTiffany said:

I like your new avatars, @lovemesomjoolery and @SuprSuprElevated. They make me smile.

Beautiful.  And smiling, too.

[TexasTiffany]

2 minutes ago, Julie hunter said:

Beautiful.  And smiling, too.

It's like dog happy with a cat. I so much want to pet this soft fur kitty. 

[Coffeecup]

6 hours ago, SuprSuprElevated said:

@Coffeecup - 

Really feel badly about your nightmare experience with the PET.  My only question is if there is any alternative diagnostic test that can tell the Docs what they need to know?  I know with treating cancer, the attempt to cure is so harsh on the body.  As far as we have come in this area, I'm hopeful that the medical community can keep on pushing for less invasive, dangerous 'cures'.  

I hope your tests reveal things that are favorable to you.  Hoping you feel better very soon.

Thanks to everyone for the kind words!

Supr, as far as I know, there aren't any more sophisticated tests than the nuclear medicine PET. (But I could be wrong about that, of course.) There is an MRI test, which does not use radioactive material (not sure), but I don't think I'd be able to tolerate that either. The information I have on MRI is that you have to lay on a hard table for one hour, inside a cylinder shaped machine, and the machine is extremely noisy, making loud knocking noises. My sister had an MRI and she said it sounds like a machine gun. I hate loud noises, so I would be screaming within a few minutes.

One interesting thing I learned in my post-procedure research is that the PET scan is not the first test doctors order. The PET scan is used to confirm results from previous diagnostic tests such as a CT scan. It provides a sharper and more detailed image of the area of concern. I am still puzzled, however, as to why they scan your entire body in a PET. My doctor was only interested in looking at a small lung nodule. The barium drink is intended to show your stomach and intestines, which was not my problem, so why did I have to drink that stuff? Seems like the PT scan could be refined to concentrate on a specific area of the body.

My husband said that in his experience, doctors who have personally invested their money in nuclear medicine equipment will always try to make their patients use it, whether it is absolutely medically necessary or not -- there's a financial incentive to do the radioactivity tests. That is not applicable in my case, but it might be a problem in the future if I go to a different specialist. Unfortunately, there is no way for patients to know whether the doctors are owners of the nuclear medicine equipment (or, for that matter, part/whole owners of any type of diagnostic imaging facility and equipment).

I'll ask my doctor about other tests. He has already had a CT needle biopsy done on my left lung (this outpatient procedure was done by an "interventional radiologist" doctor). The biopsy caused my lung to collapse, a known risk with this procedure. I had been advised of the risk, so I was not surprised when it happened. The radiologist put in a tube to fix the air leakage, and I just had to stay in the hospital for a few hours taking pain medicine (the tube hurt) and getting chest X-rays. Depending on what the results are from my PET scan, possibly the next step would be a needle biopsy on the right lung. Doc said they never do biopsies on both lungs at the same time, because if both lungs collapse, you are up shit creek. (My words, not his, lol.)

I talked about my experience to a friend in the medical field. She confirmed what some of you here are saying, that the techs are just focused on carrying out their tasks, checking off all the things they're supposed to do, and they aren't trained to deal with anxious patients. The techs at my clinic were not rude to me -- in fact they seemed a little intimidated by me (the Crazy 50-Foot Woman!) -- and the tech who released me from the scanning table actually sounded apologetic, and thanked me for coming. 

What doctors and techs need to remember is that if we're going in for a CT scan, PET scan, needle biopsy or some similar procedure, it's because we're already sick. We aren't perfectly healthy people going in for a routine checkup. We know something is wrong with our bodies, and we're already anxious about our conditions. We're stressed out, wondering what the results will be. We can't be expected to behave like passive lab rats or docile robot people.

Edited June 17, 2017 by Coffeecup

[lovemesomejoolery]

48 minutes ago, TexasTiffany said:

I like your new avatars, @lovemesomjoolery and @SuprSuprElevated. They make me smile.

Why, thank you!

And I LOVE this smiling little boo-boo kitty!

[zoemom]

48 minutes ago, TexasTiffany said:

I like your new avatars, @lovemesomjoolery and @SuprSuprElevated. They make me smile.

Love, love, love this kitty!  Thanks for making me smile :-) !!!

[lovemesomejoolery]

15 minutes ago, Coffeecup said:

Thanks to everyone for the kind words!

Supr, as far as I know, there aren't any more sophisticated tests than the nuclear medicine PET. (But I could be wrong about that, of course.) There is an MRI test, which does not use radioactive material (not sure), but I don't think I'd be able to tolerate that either. The information I have on MRI is that you have to lay on a hard table for one hour, inside a cylinder shaped machine, and the machine is extremely noisy, making loud knocking noises. My sister had an MRI and she said it sounds like a machine gun. I hate loud noises, so I would be screaming within a few minutes.

I'll ask my doctor. He has already had a CT needle biopsy done on my left lung (this outpatient procedure was done by an "interventional radiologist" doctor). The biopsy caused my lung to collapse, a known risk with this procedure. I had been advised of the risk, so I was not surprised when it happened. The radiologist put in a tube to fix the air leakage, and I just had to stay in the hospital for a few hours taking pain medicine (the tube hurt) and getting chest X-rays. Depending on what the results are from my PET scan, possibly the next step would be a needle biopsy on the right lung. Doc said they never do biopsies on both lungs at the same time, because if both lungs collapse, you are up shit creek. (My words, not his, lol.)

I talked about my experience to a friend in the medical field. She confirmed what some of you here are saying, that the techs are just focused on carrying out their tasks, checking off all the things they're supposed to do, and they aren't trained to deal with anxious patients. The techs at my clinic were not rude to me -- in fact they seemed a little intimidated by me (the Crazy 50-Foot Woman!) -- and the tech who released me from the scanning table actually sounded apologetic, and thanked me for coming. 

What doctors and techs need to remember is that if we're going in for a CT scan, PET scan, needle biopsy or some similar procedure, it's because we're already sick. We aren't perfectly healthy people going in for a routine checkup. We know something is wrong with our bodies, and we're already anxious about our conditions. We're stressed out, wondering what the results will be. We can't be expected to behave like passive lab rats or docile robot people.

Without going into a ton of detail here (it would be boring and take away from the point I want to make and I'll explain later - nothing major, but I've been in a research study for 15 years through Johns Hopkins), I have to get an MRI just about every year of my neck, spine and legs.  It's an hour or so long in that tube.  The first couple of times, it was pretty brutal.  I never thought I was claustrophobic but I feel like I developed it because of these MRI's.  The worst thing, for me, was keeping perfectly still.  They'd stop the test or talk to me while in the tube to let me know my foot was jiggling - a habit I have when I'm bored or nervous, I jiggle my foot.

Here's what helps - ask for Valium.  My doctor pretty much demanded I take it because I moved so much!  It is commonly done to help alleviate a patient's anxiety.  Take it an hour before the test.  If you feel anxious, it will calm you down.  What it definitely does is keep you still, peaceful and, more importantly, able to get a good scan for your doctor to read.  They also give you a buzzer so that you can communicate with the technician who is with you in case you need help or need to stop.  Trust me, if you take a mild sedative, you'll be fine.

And, to my knowledge, there is nothing radioactive involved in an MRI - it's magnetic imaging.  So that means you can't have metal parts (artificial heart valves, pacemakers, some artificial joints, shunts, etc) in your body.  There are also Open MRI's - I've had a couple like that.  Not all insurance will cover it, though.

[Fishy]

36 minutes ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

And I LOVE this smiling little boo-boo kitty!

so funny...... 'sheshe booboo' is actually what I call one of my kittykats - this month anyway - Hee!

[lovemesomejoolery]

45 minutes ago, Fishy said:

so funny...... 'sheshe booboo' is actually what I call one of my kittykats - this month anyway - Hee!

I know, right?  We have so many pet names for our pets.....but I typically revert back to boo-boo for mine.  I might try adding "sheshe" !

[TexasTiffany]

30 minutes ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

I know, right?  We have so many pet names for our pets.....but I typically revert back to boo-boo for mine.  I might try adding "sheshe" !

My Bonnie would sometimes be Bonnieboo, Bonniebell, or Boobell.

Phoebe was Phoofee.

Sandy was Sandylou.

I guess, "ooh ooh" sounds are endearing. Can I get some research money to study this theory? Belgians? Anyone? 

[CarpeDiem54]

9 minutes ago, TexasTiffany said:

My Bonnie would sometimes be Bonnieboo, Bonniebell, or Boobell.

Phoebe was Phoofee.

Sandy was Sandylou.

I guess, "ooh ooh" sounds are endearing. Can I get some research money to study this theory? Belgians? Anyone? 

I think you're on to something.  Here's $10 (more than the Q gives!)

• Frosty was Froost
• Morris was Moose
• Luna was Looney Toons
• Junior was June Bug
• Parsley was Parcels
• Bella was Belly

The last two are anomalies (word list).

[Fishy]

20 minutes ago, TexasTiffany said:

My Bonnie would sometimes be Bonnieboo, Bonniebell, or Boobell.

Phoebe was Phoofee.

Sandy was Sandylou.

I guess, "ooh ooh" sounds are endearing. Can I get some research money to study this theory? Belgians? Anyone? 

Would a couple of Belgian waffles do??    ;-)

[Booney]

3 hours ago, TexasTiffany said:

I like your new avatars, @lovemesomjoolery and @SuprSuprElevated. They make me smile.

I lurve this kitty!! Looks like a Maine Coon kitten.

[TexasTiffany]

Thanks! We can take the Belgian waffles, add to it with the $10, have brunch and ask people about their pet names and nicknames. It would be a good time had by all. 

[Booney]

2 hours ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

Without going into a ton of detail here (it would be boring and take away from the point I want to make and I'll explain later - nothing major, but I've been in a research study for 15 years through Johns Hopkins), I have to get an MRI just about every year of my neck, spine and legs.  It's an hour or so long in that tube.  The first couple of times, it was pretty brutal.  I never thought I was claustrophobic but I feel like I developed it because of these MRI's.  The worst thing, for me, was keeping perfectly still.  They'd stop the test or talk to me while in the tube to let me know my foot was jiggling - a habit I have when I'm bored or nervous, I jiggle my foot.

Here's what helps - ask for Valium.  My doctor pretty much demanded I take it because I moved so much!  It is commonly done to help alleviate a patient's anxiety.  Take it an hour before the test.  If you feel anxious, it will calm you down.  What it definitely does is keep you still, peaceful and, more importantly, able to get a good scan for your doctor to read.  They also give you a buzzer so that you can communicate with the technician who is with you in case you need help or need to stop.  Trust me, if you take a mild sedative, you'll be fine.

And, to my knowledge, there is nothing radioactive involved in an MRI - it's magnetic imaging.  So that means you can't have metal parts (artificial heart valves, pacemakers, some artificial joints, shunts, etc) in your body.  There are also Open MRI's - I've had a couple like that.  Not all insurance will cover it, though.

I so agree with this. I'm mildly claustrophobic and can't do an MRI without a tranquilizer. A few years ago I had to have an MRI of my torso because I had a kidney cyst. My doctor wanted to be sure it was a fluid cyst (it was) and not something more dangerous (it wasn't). She prescribed a low dosage of Valium and, although it took the edge off, it didn't do enough. The MRI tech told me to ask for Ativan or Xanax next time. I haven't had to have an MRI since but if I do, you can bet I'm going to be asking for Ativan or Xanax!

[SuprSuprElevated]

3 hours ago, TexasTiffany said:

I like your new avatars, @lovemesomjoolery and @SuprSuprElevated. They make me smile.

Thank you.  Thank you very much. (said in my best Elvis)

p.s.:  nice kitty

Edited June 18, 2017 by SuprSuprElevated

[Booney]

1 hour ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

I know, right?  We have so many pet names for our pets.....but I typically revert back to boo-boo for mine.  I might try adding "sheshe" !

I had a tabby named Boo Boo Kitty. I called her Boo Boo or just Boo. My current kitties are Mittens and Coco, but we call sometimes call Mittens "Mitty" or "Mitts" and Coco is "Cokes." However mostly we call them Sweetpea or Sweetie Pea. Mr. Booney also calls them Sweety Petunes (which he affectionately calls the grandkids too!)

[ByaNose]

Jane looks nice tonight but that skirt is too busy. I like the top though. A simple stripe. Very nautical looking for summer. 

[SuprSuprElevated]

My Onyx can be Onnie, Pooh Bear, Poo Poo, Bear, Punkin', Boo Bears, or if I'm really pissed Onyx Marie!

My Pearl can be Pearl Girl, Sis, Sissy or Pearl.

Guess which one has the big personality?  lol 

Since it's been a while, and photos are allowed here...

Edited June 18, 2017 by SuprSuprElevated

[Sew Sumi]

1 hour ago, Booney said:

I had a tabby named Boo Boo Kitty. I called her Boo Boo or just Boo. My current kitties are Mittens and Coco, but we call sometimes call Mittens "Mitty" or "Mitts" and Coco is "Cokes." However mostly we call them Sweetpea or Sweetie Pea. Mr. Booney also calls them Sweety Petunes (which he affectionately calls the grandkids too!)

Hey, I have a Booboo/Boo kitty! She's a long-haired tuxedo. We also have a triple T (tabby/tortie/tux) named Mitzi. No "oo" names for her, so another anonmaly. She's usually just Mitz or MitzPitz. 

Edited June 18, 2017 by Sew Sumi

[Snark Byte]

5 hours ago, TexasTiffany said:

My Bonnie would sometimes be Bonnieboo, Bonniebell, or Boobell.

Phoebe was Phoofee.

Sandy was Sandylou.

I guess, "ooh ooh" sounds are endearing. Can I get some research money to study this theory? Belgians? Anyone? 

My Mickey became Micky Moodle, Moodle, or Moodie. My Kanuk became Nukki Noodle.

Edited June 18, 2017 by Snark Byte
Mine are dogs, so no crazy cat lady for me! Crazy dog lady.

[zoemom]

3 hours ago, CarpeDiem54 said:

I think you're on to something.  Here's $10 (more than the Q gives!)

• Frosty was Froost
• Morris was Moose
• Luna was Looney Toons
• Junior was June Bug
• Parsley was Parcels
• Bella was Belly

The last two are anomalies (word list).

Here's $5 more (I just applied for a Q card (not!)

OK, mine make no sense, but here is a list of my kitties aka's (past and present)

• Zippy was Doo-Dah
• Nathan was Boo-Boo Kitty (I think everyone has had a Boo-Boo Kitty in their lives)
• Zoe was Nuk-Nuk Kitty or Zo-Zo
• Sydney the Adventure Kitty is well.....that is his name, STAK for short
• Jimmy D is Little Man
• Diva is Diva-Doo (very much like the Q's Diva, loves food, has a few extra pounds on her)
• Sweet Bee is Beebles
• Frisian is Freezy (Frisian came with his name, who in the world names a cat Frisian?, hence Freezy, but most of the time I call him Bubby)

Re-reading this post makes it official I guess.  I have crossed over and become a crazy cat lady..........

Meow!

Edited June 18, 2017 by zoemom

[Coffeecup]

5 hours ago, lovemesomejoolery said:

Without going into a ton of detail here (it would be boring and take away from the point I want to make and I'll explain later - nothing major, but I've been in a research study for 15 years through Johns Hopkins), I have to get an MRI just about every year of my neck, spine and legs.  It's an hour or so long in that tube.  The first couple of times, it was pretty brutal.  I never thought I was claustrophobic but I feel like I developed it because of these MRI's.  The worst thing, for me, was keeping perfectly still.  They'd stop the test or talk to me while in the tube to let me know my foot was jiggling - a habit I have when I'm bored or nervous, I jiggle my foot.

Here's what helps - ask for Valium.  My doctor pretty much demanded I take it because I moved so much!  It is commonly done to help alleviate a patient's anxiety.  Take it an hour before the test.  If you feel anxious, it will calm you down.  What it definitely does is keep you still, peaceful and, more importantly, able to get a good scan for your doctor to read.  They also give you a buzzer so that you can communicate with the technician who is with you in case you need help or need to stop.  Trust me, if you take a mild sedative, you'll be fine.

And, to my knowledge, there is nothing radioactive involved in an MRI - it's magnetic imaging.  So that means you can't have metal parts (artificial heart valves, pacemakers, some artificial joints, shunts, etc) in your body.  There are also Open MRI's - I've had a couple like that.  Not all insurance will cover it, though.

Thanks for the information.

3 hours ago, Booney said:

I so agree with this. I'm mildly claustrophobic and can't do an MRI without a tranquilizer. A few years ago I had to have an MRI of my torso because I had a kidney cyst. My doctor wanted to be sure it was a fluid cyst (it was) and not something more dangerous (it wasn't). She prescribed a low dosage of Valium and, although it took the edge off, it didn't do enough. The MRI tech told me to ask for Ativan or Xanax next time. I haven't had to have an MRI since but if I do, you can bet I'm going to be asking for Ativan or Xanax!

Sounds like a good solution for me.

3 hours ago, SuprSuprElevated said:

My Onyx can be Onnie, Pooh Bear, Poo Poo, Bear, Punkin', Boo Bears, or if I'm really pissed Onyx Marie!

My Pearl can be Pearl Girl, Sis, Sissy or Pearl.

Guess which one has the big personality?  lol 

Since it's been a while, and photos are allowed here...

Love the pics of Onyx and Pearl. Look at those two fluffy cute tails hanging down!

[lovemesomejoolery]

6 hours ago, Sew Sumi said:

Hey, I have a Booboo/Boo kitty! She's a long-haired tuxedo. We also have a triple T (tabby/tortie/tux) named Mitzi. No "oo" names for her, so another anonmaly. She's usually just Mitz or MitzPitz. 

OOOOOH!  I would love to see a picture of the Triple T!  I have never seen one!  We are partial to Torties.  Our first cat was a gray and beige dilute tortie named Maisy and now we have a brother and sister - the female is a black and orange tortie and her brother is all black with little tufts of white hair in his ears.  They are both magical and mean the world to us. 

My husband got to name them both.  Initially, we each named one - the tortie, he named Mimsy (Mad Madam Mim from the Disney film The Sword and the Stone).  I named the black cat Lily, one of my favorite flowers (and because she was all black, Lily was sort of short for Lilith - Frasier Crane's ex-wife on Cheers/Frazier).  When we got them to the vet, we found out Lily was indeed a male - so my husband named him Merlin.  This is them at around 6 mos. old, - they are two years old now - doing what they do - sitting on the kitchen counter!  

Sorry I can't upload a more current photo - they all seem too large for this site!

Edited June 18, 2017 by lovemesomejoolery

[Fishy]

7 hours ago, Sew Sumi said:

Hey, I have a Booboo/Boo kitty! She's a long-haired tuxedo. We also have a triple T (tabby/tortie/tux) named Mitzi. No "oo" names for her, so another anonmaly. She's usually just Mitz or MitzPitz. 

I have always LOVED the kitty name Mitzi - that's actually my fav.  My first two kittykats were named Mitzi (couldn't come up with anything better) until the next cat I got was a boy.  I always called them MitziBitzi.  AND - Mitzi is the first pet name on account authentication questions on certain accounts (shhh don't tell). ;-)  Here are my 2 - SheSheBooBoo & Mr. Schnoodle on any given day or aka Will & Grace.

Edited June 18, 2017 by Fishy

[tiftgirl]

Let me preface this by saying I lurk and don't post, but, that does not mean I am indifferent to the trials and heartache several of you are going through (BronxBabe, Mrs. Joe, and all the others) and you are in my thoughts and prayers.  It's just, well, stupid anxiety disorder gets set off by posting sometimes.  Who knows why, I told you, it's stupid.  :)  And, it's taken my two days to work up to do this if that give you any idea of how it gets me sometimes.

But, if I can bring up Chewy again.  Yes, they are higher on somethings, but, the delivery fee is, I think something like five dollars flat for anything with a total of 49.99 or lower, or if you order is over 50.00 it's free - either way to get litter delivered it is worth it to me.

BUT, the customer service is beyond compare.  One of my cats passed away in Jan.  (not her over there in my avatar - her brother).  I called them to cancel the recurring order for his prescription food.  After very sweet condolences the lady said "Your last order was in December.  I will refund it."  I was confused and said no, we've used part of it and I am not up to sending the last bag back and she said "No, it's what we do to express our sorrow for what you are going through."  A few days later I received a hand written card from her that was so very sweet and referred to my Shlomo by name.  When I called to express my gratitude and how blown away I was to a supervisor, he stayed on the phone with me about 1/2 hour talking about Shlomo and my other cats - he also said if I just needed to talk they are there 24/7 and would be happy to spend time with me.  Just amazing.

Someone above said they heard Chewy had been bought by PetSmart - I so hope the outstanding customer service does not change.  That is what makes Chewy worth it to me - they treat their customers like real people with real feelings something far too lacking in large corps these days.

So anyway, I've made it through this so far and hope you don't mind me popping in to give my perspective.

[Thumper]

Welcome, tiftgirl!  I understand anxiety disorders.  You dipped in your toes; the water is comforting here; come back again!

edit:. Wonderful story about Chewy and its customer service!

Edited June 18, 2017 by Thumper

[tricksi]

I love all the kitty photos!

Coffeecup and anyone else: sorry about your PET Scan experiences. I've had 2 - one just a few weeks ago and my experience was not like yours. I could not exercise the day before/of, low carb the day before, no food or drink but water for 6 hours before the scan. No metal on the body, they made me take off my necklace but I was able to wear my ring since my arms went above my head for the scan.  I had my glucose level tested, then they administered the material via IV - I think the first time I had the scan I had to drink the liquid - but my memory is a bit hazy on that. Even though it was only 11 months ago, I've had so many medical things done since than, that first PET scan is unmemorable compared to what came after.

I had to rest for about an hour in a quiet room and basically be still. I did have a tv and it was ok to watch it. There was a sign saying no knitting, talking or texting on the phone, due to the metal involved in phones, knitting needles, etc.  I didn't mind being alone, in fact it's my preference. I know I'm a weird duck, but I like to do my medical tests and procedures alone so not having company in the room while I waited was not a big deal to me.    The room was super cold - my body was fine but by the end of the half hour procedure, my fingers were chilled.  I always wondered why the full scan until I read the results.  Though it was basically for my abdomen/pelvis, the scan also noted the head, neck, chest and extremities of the body which can be quite significant when dealing with cancer and the possibility of it spreading.  Before or after formal cancer diagnosis.

Compared to the MRI, the Pet scan was a cake walk.  The noise in an MRI is bothersome, yes, but staying still for so long was what got me. It seemed to go on forever. And the day I had the MRI, the music was not working so all those clanks, bells, buzzes, etc, were super evident. And it did make me claustrophobic.  I didn't have any valium or anything but do suggest something to relax you if  you think at all you might need it.

My suggestion is if at all possible, if you have to do another PET scan and can, go to a different facility. I don't know if everything would be exactly the same or if it would be relaxed/different if done via a different imaging center. I went to the same one both times since it was convenient and less costly compared to others but I felt I got good service and they had the results to my doctor very quickly.

[Snark Byte]

1 hour ago, tiftgirl said:

Let me preface this by saying I lurk and don't post, but, that does not mean I am indifferent to the trials and heartache several of you are going through (BronxBabe, Mrs. Joe, and all the others) and you are in my thoughts and prayers.  It's just, well, stupid anxiety disorder gets set off by posting sometimes.  Who knows why, I told you, it's stupid.  :)  And, it's taken my two days to work up to do this if that give you any idea of how it gets me sometimes.

But, if I can bring up Chewy again.  Yes, they are higher on somethings, but, the delivery fee is, I think something like five dollars flat for anything with a total of 49.99 or lower, or if you order is over 50.00 it's free - either way to get litter delivered it is worth it to me.

BUT, the customer service is beyond compare.  One of my cats passed away in Jan.  (not her over there in my avatar - her brother).  I called them to cancel the recurring order for his prescription food.  After very sweet condolences the lady said "Your last order was in December.  I will refund it."  I was confused and said no, we've used part of it and I am not up to sending the last bag back and she said "No, it's what we do to express our sorrow for what you are going through."  A few days later I received a hand written card from her that was so very sweet and referred to my Shlomo by name.  When I called to express my gratitude and how blown away I was to a supervisor, he stayed on the phone with me about 1/2 hour talking about Shlomo and my other cats - he also said if I just needed to talk they are there 24/7 and would be happy to spend time with me.  Just amazing.

Someone above said they heard Chewy had been bought by PetSmart - I so hope the outstanding customer service does not change.  That is what makes Chewy worth it to me - they treat their customers like real people with real feelings something far too lacking in large corps these days.

So anyway, I've made it through this so far and hope you don't mind me popping in to give my perspective.

Welcome, tiftgirl! I hope you'll dive in on a regular basis.

Your story brought tears to my eyes! So rare to hear of such above and beyond the call of duty compassion and caring these days. Gives me hope for this world!

[zoemom]

1 hour ago, tiftgirl said:

It's just, well, stupid anxiety disorder gets set off by posting sometimes.  Who knows why, I told you, it's stupid.  :)  And, it's taken my two days to work up to do this if that give you any idea of how it gets me sometimes.

But, if I can bring up Chewy again.  Yes, they are higher on somethings, but, the delivery fee is, I think something like five dollars flat for anything with a total of 49.99 or lower, or if you order is over 50.00 it's free - either way to get litter delivered it is worth it to me.

BUT, the customer service is beyond compare.  One of my cats passed away in Jan.  (not her over there in my avatar - her brother).  I called them to cancel the recurring order for his prescription food.  After very sweet condolences the lady said "Your last order was in December.  I will refund it."  I was confused and said no, we've used part of it and I am not up to sending the last bag back and she said "No, it's what we do to express our sorrow for what you are going through."  A few days later I received a hand written card from her that was so very sweet and referred to my Shlomo by name.  When I called to express my gratitude and how blown away I was to a supervisor, he stayed on the phone with me about 1/2 hour talking about Shlomo and my other cats - he also said if I just needed to talk they are there 24/7 and would be happy to spend time with me.  Just amazing.

Someone above said they heard Chewy had been bought by PetSmart - I so hope the outstanding customer service does not change.  That is what makes Chewy worth it to me - they treat their customers like real people with real feelings something far too lacking in large corps these days.

So anyway, I've made it through this so far and hope you don't mind me popping in to give my perspective.

^^^This^^^^

First, welcome Tiftgirl! I (as am sure many others who post here), am so happy that you decided to share your positive experiences with Chewy.com.  Having some anxiety issues myself, I know how challenging (understatement of the day) they can be and how they can (unfortunately) affect activities that most people take for granted.  So thank you for sharing, I agree with you 110%, while Chewy may cost a few dollars more upfront, but for me the "value" of having products delivered directly to my door, not to mention their exceptional customer service is priceless. 

I've also experienced some of the "special" customer care you mention.  I have a standing order with them for litter and food, a few months ago the credit card I had on file with them expired - they sent me a number of e-mails, but I'm really bad about checking my e-mail.  I had a very nice message on my voicemail from them, essentially they wanted to check in to see if there was a reason I'd not responded to them.  When I called back the woman I spoke with was so nice, she said that they like to follow up with customers  that don't respond just to make sure everything was OK.  I didn't feel like they were calling for my "sale", the woman I spoke with was pleasant and caring, we traded stories about our pets; I've had similar experiences whenever I've called them.  I'm very sorry that you lost Shlomo (great name btw), but I'm so impressed by the response you received from Chewy.  They epitomize the phrase "going above and beyond" IMO.

I'm the one that mentioned that they've been purchased by PetSmart.  Like you, I am keeping my fingers, toes and "paws" crossed that this doesn't bring any change to their stellar customer care.

PS & BTW - thanks for "popping in" Tiftgirl, look forward to hearing more from you :-)!

Edited June 18, 2017 by zoemom

[lovemesomejoolery]

1 hour ago, tiftgirl said:

Let me preface this by saying I lurk and don't post, but, that does not mean I am indifferent to the trials and heartache several of you are going through (BronxBabe, Mrs. Joe, and all the others) and you are in my thoughts and prayers.  It's just, well, stupid anxiety disorder gets set off by posting sometimes.  Who knows why, I told you, it's stupid.  :)  And, it's taken my two days to work up to do this if that give you any idea of how it gets me sometimes.

But, if I can bring up Chewy again.  Yes, they are higher on somethings, but, the delivery fee is, I think something like five dollars flat for anything with a total of 49.99 or lower, or if you order is over 50.00 it's free - either way to get litter delivered it is worth it to me.

BUT, the customer service is beyond compare.  One of my cats passed away in Jan.  (not her over there in my avatar - her brother).  I called them to cancel the recurring order for his prescription food.  After very sweet condolences the lady said "Your last order was in December.  I will refund it."  I was confused and said no, we've used part of it and I am not up to sending the last bag back and she said "No, it's what we do to express our sorrow for what you are going through."  A few days later I received a hand written card from her that was so very sweet and referred to my Shlomo by name.  When I called to express my gratitude and how blown away I was to a supervisor, he stayed on the phone with me about 1/2 hour talking about Shlomo and my other cats - he also said if I just needed to talk they are there 24/7 and would be happy to spend time with me.  Just amazing.

Someone above said they heard Chewy had been bought by PetSmart - I so hope the outstanding customer service does not change.  That is what makes Chewy worth it to me - they treat their customers like real people with real feelings something far too lacking in large corps these days.

So anyway, I've made it through this so far and hope you don't mind me popping in to give my perspective.

Hi @tiftgirl - thank you for sharing this story! 

We are a fun, friendly and compassionate bunch, so if you made it through the wonderful post above and, more importantly, lived to tell the tale, then I hope you'll join us often!!

So sorry to hear about your kitty's passing in January.