I went out for dinner with my daughter and her friend. Very cold! Brrrr.
But really good food! So they are out having a New Years--me, I watched
Ghost. Yeah, very chic flick--but I like chic flicks.
My first book of the year is Men Explain Things to Me by Rebecca Solnit.
I'm a Solnit fan. Book begins with a humorous story of her attending this
party in Aspen. The host said to her, in a condescending fashion, about the type
of books she wrote. She gave him a very brief description of the latest book.
His reply was the there was this Amazing book on the same subject. Her
friend had to tell him 4 times that was the book she'd written. His state of
embarrassment followed.
The following chapters are quite serious. She gets into womens right
away. How women are silenced. Their opinions do not mean anything,
My mother didn't want me to go to college. She said I needed to keep my
job at Roses (equivalent to Walmarts then). I made a nickle more than
than minimum wage and only worked 32 hours a week. Anything was
going be a step upward.
The next chapter is statistics of women being abused, silenced. And after
a chapter regarding politics. The book is full of quotes, deep thoughts.
She is my favorite author, She makes me think, learn, and hunger for more.
Entering the two missing chapters in my own book has some problems. One
chapter is totally different from the existing. Going to be a bear reconciling the two.
That's it for now. Time for me to write my affirmations for the coming year.
Have a happy new year. May the next year be blessed with more happiness
than this year!
All For Now--
Kate Thorn
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Time Flies--Almost Christmas
I have been meaning to write more, but I have working on my book series
and I found out I missed two important chapters, so I must backtrack and
insert them. They explain things yet to come and why one of my male
main characters react the way they do.. I'm still plugging away at it.
Not done as much bird watching, but I saw one the precious little downy
woodpeckers a few minutes ago. Glad to know they are still here.
My critters (dog, cat, chickens, birds and occasionally a stray possum or
two) consume more food than I do. The dog food alone cost 60.00 for
60 lbs. of Happy Hips kibbles--Loaded with vitamins and glucosamine,
chrondroitin. Her weight two weeks ago was 94 lbs and even though
she's a year old, Pyrenees are considered puppies at this age. If they are
going to work around animals, one isn't supposed to even try to train
them until they are 18 months old. That is how much puppy they are.
My daughter had an allergic reaction ,which scares my daughter silly.
I do fall that easily. So I try not to worry her. So I called a neighbor--
whom we give eggs to--and askedif he would come over for about 5 minutes.
He started to follow meinto the pen, one glance at Mollie--was very still
and staring at him intently. I said, "No, your job is to call 911 is she accidentally
knocks me down" Mollie was golden, but she never took her eyes off of him.
That assured me and scared me. These dogs cannot be trained to follow
commands. Their genetic code is such if someone tried to harm me,
she'd come though the fence and kill them. But only to protect me,
save me. Never to be vicious. They are really friendly. But one just
want to mess with these dogs. They are different in that they never attack
from the front. The go for the back. One Pyrenees scared off a
grizzly--in Montana--and saved a kids life. The dog sustained minor
injuries. Minor!! After attacking a grizzly bear! I could hardly
believe it. I knew two Pyrenees could bring and kill a bear--I knew
they fought wolves off--and with one bite, killed the wolf. They
kill wolves, coyotes, by one bite to the back of the neck; they literally
sever the spinal column, You cant treat them like a toy, or a regular
pet. And you have to be the alpha. No matter what. Mollies toy--
she dug up a piece of a log--it's 9" around (at least) and about 12" long.
It's heavy--even for my daughter. Mollie grabs it up and runs up and down
her log carrying this in her mouth. Amazing!
I have a small tree up--with only 4 sets of mini lights on it--and 5 sets
winding around the deck--what was left went around the railing and
the top of the front porch. Looks so cheerful!
Merry Christmas to all!!
Later, Kate Thorn
and I found out I missed two important chapters, so I must backtrack and
insert them. They explain things yet to come and why one of my male
main characters react the way they do.. I'm still plugging away at it.
Not done as much bird watching, but I saw one the precious little downy
woodpeckers a few minutes ago. Glad to know they are still here.
My critters (dog, cat, chickens, birds and occasionally a stray possum or
two) consume more food than I do. The dog food alone cost 60.00 for
60 lbs. of Happy Hips kibbles--Loaded with vitamins and glucosamine,
chrondroitin. Her weight two weeks ago was 94 lbs and even though
she's a year old, Pyrenees are considered puppies at this age. If they are
going to work around animals, one isn't supposed to even try to train
them until they are 18 months old. That is how much puppy they are.
My daughter had an allergic reaction ,which scares my daughter silly.
I do fall that easily. So I try not to worry her. So I called a neighbor--
whom we give eggs to--and askedif he would come over for about 5 minutes.
He started to follow meinto the pen, one glance at Mollie--was very still
and staring at him intently. I said, "No, your job is to call 911 is she accidentally
knocks me down" Mollie was golden, but she never took her eyes off of him.
That assured me and scared me. These dogs cannot be trained to follow
commands. Their genetic code is such if someone tried to harm me,
she'd come though the fence and kill them. But only to protect me,
save me. Never to be vicious. They are really friendly. But one just
want to mess with these dogs. They are different in that they never attack
from the front. The go for the back. One Pyrenees scared off a
grizzly--in Montana--and saved a kids life. The dog sustained minor
injuries. Minor!! After attacking a grizzly bear! I could hardly
believe it. I knew two Pyrenees could bring and kill a bear--I knew
they fought wolves off--and with one bite, killed the wolf. They
kill wolves, coyotes, by one bite to the back of the neck; they literally
sever the spinal column, You cant treat them like a toy, or a regular
pet. And you have to be the alpha. No matter what. Mollies toy--
she dug up a piece of a log--it's 9" around (at least) and about 12" long.
It's heavy--even for my daughter. Mollie grabs it up and runs up and down
her log carrying this in her mouth. Amazing!
I have a small tree up--with only 4 sets of mini lights on it--and 5 sets
winding around the deck--what was left went around the railing and
the top of the front porch. Looks so cheerful!
Merry Christmas to all!!
Later, Kate Thorn
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Beach Trip in Late September
A couple of weeks ago i went to the beach with my daughter
and grandson--and, of course, Daisy. (I even take a small
vacuum cleaner just for her.) We went out to eat--food was
great--and we stopped at one beach wares shop. Not one of
the super large ones. I wanted a mug--that's all. But we walked
around perusing the other goods. And that's when I fell--no
warning. I fell on my right shoulder--the same one broken in April.
And it hurt--really hurt. I had just been released from the frequent
visits to the doctor. I got up with help. My beach trip was essentially
over. The weather forecast was for rain. So we did not bring my
cart. I spent the rest of the time feeling very miserable, but Daisy and I
really enjoyed just watching the ocean.
All for now
Kate Thorn
and grandson--and, of course, Daisy. (I even take a small
vacuum cleaner just for her.) We went out to eat--food was
great--and we stopped at one beach wares shop. Not one of
the super large ones. I wanted a mug--that's all. But we walked
around perusing the other goods. And that's when I fell--no
warning. I fell on my right shoulder--the same one broken in April.
And it hurt--really hurt. I had just been released from the frequent
visits to the doctor. I got up with help. My beach trip was essentially
over. The weather forecast was for rain. So we did not bring my
cart. I spent the rest of the time feeling very miserable, but Daisy and I
really enjoyed just watching the ocean.
All for now
Kate Thorn
Life in Hendersonville NC
This has to be the most pleasant small town I've ever lived in.
As we were going up the road towards Walmart, we saw blue lights
on both sides of the road. No, not a wreck. They were directing traffic.
So the people could could get out of the church parking lot safely.
And they do this for all churches of a large size. They also do this
when some huge company, as a car dealership, has a sale. Unreal!
They didn't even do that in Mayberry!
The kennel I boarded Mollie in while at the beach thew in a free bath.
Mollie weighed 70 or 80 pounds then so it had to be an experience.
Free Bath! Another unreal!
Anyway, I love this town. After buying groceries today we went to
Messalunas to eat. (spelling not checked yet). The food was delicious
and, service was beyond excellent. Next we went to a spice store--and I
found this wonderful vinaigrette call Gingered Honey--to die for--so
it came home with us. They had the most unusual teapots--black
iron with a ceramic coating inside and out. The outside was rustic
matte--with different designs on them. My favorite was the dragonfly
purple teapot. Of course, the spice scents made you want to buy--
and I did--but only 2 packs of the flavored sugars--clove sugar and
cinnamon sugar--I am going to mix a small amt (1/2 tsp) in hot water
and see how it tastes. Then I'll try it tea. I usually use Stevia Pure
Via from Amazon--800 packs at a time. Lasts forever. I put it in Greek
yogurt and tea.
All for now
Kate Thorn
PS-We refers to my daughter and I. Mr. Natural is forever gone.--One
last thing--Mollie ran off a bear a few nights ago--super protective now.
All pets are super spoiled. The chicken house is insulated with styrofoam
and more plywood. They are still laying eggs!
Kate
As we were going up the road towards Walmart, we saw blue lights
on both sides of the road. No, not a wreck. They were directing traffic.
So the people could could get out of the church parking lot safely.
And they do this for all churches of a large size. They also do this
when some huge company, as a car dealership, has a sale. Unreal!
They didn't even do that in Mayberry!
The kennel I boarded Mollie in while at the beach thew in a free bath.
Mollie weighed 70 or 80 pounds then so it had to be an experience.
Free Bath! Another unreal!
Anyway, I love this town. After buying groceries today we went to
Messalunas to eat. (spelling not checked yet). The food was delicious
and, service was beyond excellent. Next we went to a spice store--and I
found this wonderful vinaigrette call Gingered Honey--to die for--so
it came home with us. They had the most unusual teapots--black
iron with a ceramic coating inside and out. The outside was rustic
matte--with different designs on them. My favorite was the dragonfly
purple teapot. Of course, the spice scents made you want to buy--
and I did--but only 2 packs of the flavored sugars--clove sugar and
cinnamon sugar--I am going to mix a small amt (1/2 tsp) in hot water
and see how it tastes. Then I'll try it tea. I usually use Stevia Pure
Via from Amazon--800 packs at a time. Lasts forever. I put it in Greek
yogurt and tea.
All for now
Kate Thorn
PS-We refers to my daughter and I. Mr. Natural is forever gone.--One
last thing--Mollie ran off a bear a few nights ago--super protective now.
All pets are super spoiled. The chicken house is insulated with styrofoam
and more plywood. They are still laying eggs!
Kate
Sunday, August 24, 2014
90 Minutes a Day
This idea isn't mine--I believe it came from FeedBurner.com by a person
that goes by Life Hacker., who also publishes on Feedburner. It is a paid
site, but well worth it. I "only" picked 140 subjects I was interested in--
and in the beginning, I tried to read all of them. Not even possible.
Yesterday I read the How 90 minutes could change your life, It is a simple
concept. Pick a block of time that you are fairly free--and devote 90
minutes per day to that project. I am day 3 with my re-writes on my book,
and I've completed 11+ chapters of Book One. That is a lot. They aren't short
and uncomplicated chapters.
I just wanted to pass this along to others out there who are trying to create time!
All For Now
Kate Thorn
8/24/2014
that goes by Life Hacker., who also publishes on Feedburner. It is a paid
site, but well worth it. I "only" picked 140 subjects I was interested in--
and in the beginning, I tried to read all of them. Not even possible.
Yesterday I read the How 90 minutes could change your life, It is a simple
concept. Pick a block of time that you are fairly free--and devote 90
minutes per day to that project. I am day 3 with my re-writes on my book,
and I've completed 11+ chapters of Book One. That is a lot. They aren't short
and uncomplicated chapters.
I just wanted to pass this along to others out there who are trying to create time!
All For Now
Kate Thorn
8/24/2014
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Mollie and Springing a Leak
Mollie hit with the electric wire at the bottom of her fence. Her behavior
regressed to that of a small puppy. And she weighs 75 lbs. now. She
wouldn't leave the deck. And she was stir crazy. My daughter took her
for walks--but that only helped a little.. So I expanded her space outside.
Her dog lot is now about 30 ft. wide--she has a third of the entire back
yard--and the largest doghouse I could find. (It it states that it will fit a
large german shepherd, well, it's too little for Mollie. She is that large
and still growing.
After being on the deck (near me--that's her goal), she was ticked off
after being put in her space. She promptly went into her doghouse and
to come out for 2 days. Throughout the day, I would throw treats to her.
And what did Mollie do? Looked at me, put her nose in the air, and turned
away from me. Wouldn't take anything from me. That lasted 2 days--and
then she began to explore her new yard, come out more often, and started
eating again. I was relieved. But I am definitely what she wants to guard.
My daughter was considering buying a pygmy goat for her to guard if
didn't start eating and being Mollie again, And when she gets used to being
outside, she will be allowed in at night again.
During this same time period, I went downstairs to wash a small load of
clothes. I put them in and went to check out the rest of the downstairs.
Everything was OK until I reached the hallway leading to the bathroom.
It was half-covered with about a half inch of water. The concrete was
even wet. The carpet in bedroom was wet. I freaked, as plumbing isn't
one of my skills, and called a plumber. He came soon--seems I had hole
the size of a dime in a pipe. Over 200.00 later, that was fixed. Then he said
I HAD to have rehab on the downstairs. I will be paying a thousand
dollars on that--then my homeowners will kick in.
Here lately, I've been
been bleeding money due to finishing up the other house. It should be completely
finished in a week and a half--and then the "for sale" house will go on the market.
I'v completely rehabbed this house. Part of the floors and joists are completely
new, Walls and ceiling are sheetrock--new. Tile will be on kitchen and bathroom
floor. Appliances are all purchased and ready to go. New dishwasher (on sale)
and almost new washer and dryer (used 11 times--girl moved in with boyfriend,
and no longer needed them--sweet deal.) The stove was a good price, not very
old, a couple of years maybe, and it's the same size as mine and a glasstop.
The only thing slightly aged was the fridge--but it's not as old as mine! It's a
2 door style, which is my preference. And it has a really nice HVAC (ouch
on the price!) The wiring wasn't up to code--so the entire house was rewired,
inspected. A lot of lights and outlets were added. The plumbing also had to be
re-done. Has a new and larger breaker box. The guy in charge of doing all
this went out on a limb and picked out lights for house, and sconces for hallway.
This sort of worried me, but his taste was excellent; I couldm't have done as well.
The water heater is 2 years old--yes, I need a new hot water heater too, but I
got lucky. This has heating element top and bottom. He sold this to me for 125.00,
originally cost over 400.00. It has all new windows. And the paint color inside is
White Hydrangea, which a white with only a touch of cream.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
regressed to that of a small puppy. And she weighs 75 lbs. now. She
wouldn't leave the deck. And she was stir crazy. My daughter took her
for walks--but that only helped a little.. So I expanded her space outside.
Her dog lot is now about 30 ft. wide--she has a third of the entire back
yard--and the largest doghouse I could find. (It it states that it will fit a
large german shepherd, well, it's too little for Mollie. She is that large
and still growing.
After being on the deck (near me--that's her goal), she was ticked off
after being put in her space. She promptly went into her doghouse and
to come out for 2 days. Throughout the day, I would throw treats to her.
And what did Mollie do? Looked at me, put her nose in the air, and turned
away from me. Wouldn't take anything from me. That lasted 2 days--and
then she began to explore her new yard, come out more often, and started
eating again. I was relieved. But I am definitely what she wants to guard.
My daughter was considering buying a pygmy goat for her to guard if
didn't start eating and being Mollie again, And when she gets used to being
outside, she will be allowed in at night again.
During this same time period, I went downstairs to wash a small load of
clothes. I put them in and went to check out the rest of the downstairs.
Everything was OK until I reached the hallway leading to the bathroom.
It was half-covered with about a half inch of water. The concrete was
even wet. The carpet in bedroom was wet. I freaked, as plumbing isn't
one of my skills, and called a plumber. He came soon--seems I had hole
the size of a dime in a pipe. Over 200.00 later, that was fixed. Then he said
I HAD to have rehab on the downstairs. I will be paying a thousand
dollars on that--then my homeowners will kick in.
Here lately, I've been
been bleeding money due to finishing up the other house. It should be completely
finished in a week and a half--and then the "for sale" house will go on the market.
I'v completely rehabbed this house. Part of the floors and joists are completely
new, Walls and ceiling are sheetrock--new. Tile will be on kitchen and bathroom
floor. Appliances are all purchased and ready to go. New dishwasher (on sale)
and almost new washer and dryer (used 11 times--girl moved in with boyfriend,
and no longer needed them--sweet deal.) The stove was a good price, not very
old, a couple of years maybe, and it's the same size as mine and a glasstop.
The only thing slightly aged was the fridge--but it's not as old as mine! It's a
2 door style, which is my preference. And it has a really nice HVAC (ouch
on the price!) The wiring wasn't up to code--so the entire house was rewired,
inspected. A lot of lights and outlets were added. The plumbing also had to be
re-done. Has a new and larger breaker box. The guy in charge of doing all
this went out on a limb and picked out lights for house, and sconces for hallway.
This sort of worried me, but his taste was excellent; I couldm't have done as well.
The water heater is 2 years old--yes, I need a new hot water heater too, but I
got lucky. This has heating element top and bottom. He sold this to me for 125.00,
originally cost over 400.00. It has all new windows. And the paint color inside is
White Hydrangea, which a white with only a touch of cream.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Fall, Somersault, and Trip
I don't know if anyone else has frequent power outages, but I sure
do. This recent one lasted overnight and caused a fall. No, not again. I
was looking for the matches to light my candles and to find my flashlights.
And I tumbled in the process--couldn't catch myself with my right hand, I
caught myself with my head, seriously! Turned a partial somersault. Now
that hurt! Hurt badly enough for me go to ER--They deemed me alive, but
bruised--in my back and my right shoulder.
Meanwhile I had a trip planned to my favorite cousin's house. So went
anyway. We had (my daughter and I) a reservation at Comfort Suites--was
a large room--but I wouldn't call it a suite. But it was very clean, had quite
comfortable beds, and was very quiet! We left on Monday morning,
and arrived around lunch time. We got lost about the last 5 minutes of trip.
I told my daughter to go to where we knew where we were and we'd
find the street she missed. She wouldn't, but I didn't blame her--I have
zero sense of direction. But I was correct this time--she heard about all
way to my cousin's house!
It was great to see him and his wife. It had been over 30 years since I'd
seen him. With both of us getting older, It seemed the right decision, even
if I was in a lot of pain from the fall. The visit was wonderful! We are
so much alike--both has a strong streak of stubbornness due to the Melton
bloodline we share. He was In Vietnam--and has PTSD, like so many that
served in that war. I had learned not to even say the word Vietnam, war,
or anything similar.
He brought me a box of pictures--old ones--and we looked at them and
talked about them. My favorite picture that I would dearly love to have
a 5x7 of--was a picture of him, his brother, and his sister when they were kids.
He was saluting. A very poignant picture.
Mollie dog missed us while we were gone. First time I'd left her overnight. I did
hire someone to feed and water the chickens and the dog. So they were not left
to fend for themselves.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
do. This recent one lasted overnight and caused a fall. No, not again. I
was looking for the matches to light my candles and to find my flashlights.
And I tumbled in the process--couldn't catch myself with my right hand, I
caught myself with my head, seriously! Turned a partial somersault. Now
that hurt! Hurt badly enough for me go to ER--They deemed me alive, but
bruised--in my back and my right shoulder.
Meanwhile I had a trip planned to my favorite cousin's house. So went
anyway. We had (my daughter and I) a reservation at Comfort Suites--was
a large room--but I wouldn't call it a suite. But it was very clean, had quite
comfortable beds, and was very quiet! We left on Monday morning,
and arrived around lunch time. We got lost about the last 5 minutes of trip.
I told my daughter to go to where we knew where we were and we'd
find the street she missed. She wouldn't, but I didn't blame her--I have
zero sense of direction. But I was correct this time--she heard about all
way to my cousin's house!
It was great to see him and his wife. It had been over 30 years since I'd
seen him. With both of us getting older, It seemed the right decision, even
if I was in a lot of pain from the fall. The visit was wonderful! We are
so much alike--both has a strong streak of stubbornness due to the Melton
bloodline we share. He was In Vietnam--and has PTSD, like so many that
served in that war. I had learned not to even say the word Vietnam, war,
or anything similar.
He brought me a box of pictures--old ones--and we looked at them and
talked about them. My favorite picture that I would dearly love to have
a 5x7 of--was a picture of him, his brother, and his sister when they were kids.
He was saluting. A very poignant picture.
Mollie dog missed us while we were gone. First time I'd left her overnight. I did
hire someone to feed and water the chickens and the dog. So they were not left
to fend for themselves.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Back Story
Most of you realize that I sort of dropped off the edge of the earth,
so to speak. I don't want to dramatize all that happened, but Mr. Natural
and I are no longer together. I was nearly at the decision before I
broke my shoulder. My shoulder being broken was painful--but my
arm was completely immobilized for 1 month and I was completely helpless.
Mr. Natural was unavailable to help me for reasons of his own. My daughter
took a week off from work to help me.
I have polymyocitis--it's an autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness,
so I had been using both arms to get me upright, standing. I couldn't even
get out of chair without help. She found a used recliner that would stand me up--
that was embarrassing, but I didn't have to ask for help. I also couldn't recline
the chair or sleep in a bed. I had to sleep sitting straight up. I wasn't allowed
change my tee shirt for 2 weeks at a time. And I was learning to eat with my
left hand. You can imagine how messy that teeshirt was after a week of using
my left hand. I could bathe the rest of me--that was good, but only if my daughter
was here to help. I couldn't wash my left arm. That, she had to do.
The used chair was hard as a rock--and I tried one in Sam's that is heavenly--
even has a heat and massage function. I have fallen in love with that chair.
And now I can recline! I had to sit up for a solid month and try to sleep.
Finally I get to wait 2 months before I see my doc. I was seeing her every 2
weeks. If you are local, her name is Suzanne Hall--and she is fabulous.
She only does shoulders.
When the two of us went our separate ways, I was able to get the chicken
house built. It's the Taj Mahal of Chicken Houses. The coop is very
generously sized for only 5 chickens and the outside part,
isn't on dirt, it's built up off the ground. And that outer screened in part of
the chicken house is even bigger than the coop portion. And they
are such happy chickens! They have gotten loose once or twice,
but never left the immediate vicinity. I think they were scared of being
loose. Three had died, and they grieved each time. They would
huddle together, I think out of fear.
My daughter is a saint--she not only has looked after me, but
chickens, the dog, and the cat. And no one likes looking after
Miss Daisy Cat. She will scratch--and not when you expect
it.
My greenhouse is 2/3 completed--it had over 1000 pieces.
I put the finishing off, because there were more pressing matters.
My roof was shot. I went with a sort of rusty red architectural
shingles and as close the color as I could get for gutters and trim
paint. I have new steel back door and a new screen, and Mollie
no longer has run off the entire porch. I had another inner railing with
a gate; this prevented her jumping on me and knocking me down.
Losing the use of one's dominant hand and arm alters one's
balance. I also had a dog run put in--originally 96 feet long
and 12 feet wide--that is already a bit small--so this weekend I am
extending it to the edge of the yard. And after the roof was done,
I got them to build a new front porch--I had so many people
stop and complement my new porch, with its fancy ramp and steps,
a concrete area for the grill.
They had to stop there due to dire repairs needed on the house
I bought in Asheville. It only needed everything. So now it has new
gutters, roof, new plumbing, new wiring throughout. And isn't
all. But it will be totally done by the middle of August. I will
attempt to sell before I rent it.
That sorta brings me to the present. More or less anyway.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
so to speak. I don't want to dramatize all that happened, but Mr. Natural
and I are no longer together. I was nearly at the decision before I
broke my shoulder. My shoulder being broken was painful--but my
arm was completely immobilized for 1 month and I was completely helpless.
Mr. Natural was unavailable to help me for reasons of his own. My daughter
took a week off from work to help me.
I have polymyocitis--it's an autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness,
so I had been using both arms to get me upright, standing. I couldn't even
get out of chair without help. She found a used recliner that would stand me up--
that was embarrassing, but I didn't have to ask for help. I also couldn't recline
the chair or sleep in a bed. I had to sleep sitting straight up. I wasn't allowed
change my tee shirt for 2 weeks at a time. And I was learning to eat with my
left hand. You can imagine how messy that teeshirt was after a week of using
my left hand. I could bathe the rest of me--that was good, but only if my daughter
was here to help. I couldn't wash my left arm. That, she had to do.
The used chair was hard as a rock--and I tried one in Sam's that is heavenly--
even has a heat and massage function. I have fallen in love with that chair.
And now I can recline! I had to sit up for a solid month and try to sleep.
Finally I get to wait 2 months before I see my doc. I was seeing her every 2
weeks. If you are local, her name is Suzanne Hall--and she is fabulous.
She only does shoulders.
When the two of us went our separate ways, I was able to get the chicken
house built. It's the Taj Mahal of Chicken Houses. The coop is very
generously sized for only 5 chickens and the outside part,
isn't on dirt, it's built up off the ground. And that outer screened in part of
the chicken house is even bigger than the coop portion. And they
are such happy chickens! They have gotten loose once or twice,
but never left the immediate vicinity. I think they were scared of being
loose. Three had died, and they grieved each time. They would
huddle together, I think out of fear.
My daughter is a saint--she not only has looked after me, but
chickens, the dog, and the cat. And no one likes looking after
Miss Daisy Cat. She will scratch--and not when you expect
it.
My greenhouse is 2/3 completed--it had over 1000 pieces.
I put the finishing off, because there were more pressing matters.
My roof was shot. I went with a sort of rusty red architectural
shingles and as close the color as I could get for gutters and trim
paint. I have new steel back door and a new screen, and Mollie
no longer has run off the entire porch. I had another inner railing with
a gate; this prevented her jumping on me and knocking me down.
Losing the use of one's dominant hand and arm alters one's
balance. I also had a dog run put in--originally 96 feet long
and 12 feet wide--that is already a bit small--so this weekend I am
extending it to the edge of the yard. And after the roof was done,
I got them to build a new front porch--I had so many people
stop and complement my new porch, with its fancy ramp and steps,
a concrete area for the grill.
They had to stop there due to dire repairs needed on the house
I bought in Asheville. It only needed everything. So now it has new
gutters, roof, new plumbing, new wiring throughout. And isn't
all. But it will be totally done by the middle of August. I will
attempt to sell before I rent it.
That sorta brings me to the present. More or less anyway.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
Monday, June 16, 2014
Catching Up
First, this has been a wild and chaotic ride--but I'm backing up to when
my daughter bought Molly a large pail for her water. At the middle of the
day, she had not touched the water, so I gave her some in her old watering
dish. She drank it down nonstop.
My daughter was coming later in the day. When she arrived, I told her about
the pail incident. She went into the down the steps, with Mollie on leash.
She went to her food bowl and called Mollie. Mollie dropped to the ground
and quite literally slithered her way to my daughter, all the while giving
fearful and wary looks at the pail. We both started laughing. Mollies was
terrified of the pail! My daughter had to come and work with her for 3
days before she was over her "pail" fear. Mind you, at this point, Mollie
weighed 60 lbs. and was 5 months old.
All for now
Kate Thorn
my daughter bought Molly a large pail for her water. At the middle of the
day, she had not touched the water, so I gave her some in her old watering
dish. She drank it down nonstop.
My daughter was coming later in the day. When she arrived, I told her about
the pail incident. She went into the down the steps, with Mollie on leash.
She went to her food bowl and called Mollie. Mollie dropped to the ground
and quite literally slithered her way to my daughter, all the while giving
fearful and wary looks at the pail. We both started laughing. Mollies was
terrified of the pail! My daughter had to come and work with her for 3
days before she was over her "pail" fear. Mind you, at this point, Mollie
weighed 60 lbs. and was 5 months old.
All for now
Kate Thorn
Monday, March 31, 2014
Mollie's Soul Mate
I guess this happens in the world of dogs too. Mollie found her soul
mate. Wrong species, wrong sex--but as far as Mollie is concerned,
this is the Human for her. Sadly, this human doesn't like large breed
dogs or dogs that shed.
Mollie is shedding now--the carpet in the sun room is covered with a
layer of dog hair. And my clothes--well, I wear old ratty clothes in the
house--she covers me in 10 minutes with her white fur. So I put her
outside, then change clothes before leaving.
The soul mate is my daughter. She saw Mollie for 10 minutes the first
night we brought her home. Mollie went nuts over her. The feeling was
not returned. My daughter prefers small breeds that do not shed at all,
like Toy Poodles. Me, I speak Dog. Never have had a problem
talking with or making them understand, What's a little dog hair between
best friends?
Poor Mollie. Unrequited love. Been there. Feel badly for her.
Poor Baby.
All For Now
mate. Wrong species, wrong sex--but as far as Mollie is concerned,
this is the Human for her. Sadly, this human doesn't like large breed
dogs or dogs that shed.
Mollie is shedding now--the carpet in the sun room is covered with a
layer of dog hair. And my clothes--well, I wear old ratty clothes in the
house--she covers me in 10 minutes with her white fur. So I put her
outside, then change clothes before leaving.
The soul mate is my daughter. She saw Mollie for 10 minutes the first
night we brought her home. Mollie went nuts over her. The feeling was
not returned. My daughter prefers small breeds that do not shed at all,
like Toy Poodles. Me, I speak Dog. Never have had a problem
talking with or making them understand, What's a little dog hair between
best friends?
Poor Mollie. Unrequited love. Been there. Feel badly for her.
Poor Baby.
All For Now
More on the Tree, Gingo Tree That Is
I have learned more about the ginko tree, the one I was going to send to
the dump. I didn't need to feel guilty--the dump wouldn't have killed it.
Not only was this tree prehistoric--but it lined the streets of Nagasaki
when the Bomb dropped in the 40's. It appeared sort of puny for a few
weeks, and the came back, leafed up and bloomed. Amazing!
And, it only becomes "smelly" if it is a female--and even then not for
20 years. Since I don't plan to be in this house forever, I expect
that I will have downsized by then.
So the tree is in the window with the other plants that will not wait
til the end frost danger arrives--it has been watered and cared for.
And that is end of ridding myself of a stinky tree.
On a humorous note, I am sort of allergic to lilac bushes, but I am
still going to try to grow some from seed, Go figure. I like them,
But they make sneeze.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
the dump. I didn't need to feel guilty--the dump wouldn't have killed it.
Not only was this tree prehistoric--but it lined the streets of Nagasaki
when the Bomb dropped in the 40's. It appeared sort of puny for a few
weeks, and the came back, leafed up and bloomed. Amazing!
And, it only becomes "smelly" if it is a female--and even then not for
20 years. Since I don't plan to be in this house forever, I expect
that I will have downsized by then.
So the tree is in the window with the other plants that will not wait
til the end frost danger arrives--it has been watered and cared for.
And that is end of ridding myself of a stinky tree.
On a humorous note, I am sort of allergic to lilac bushes, but I am
still going to try to grow some from seed, Go figure. I like them,
But they make sneeze.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
Friday, March 14, 2014
Dogs, Cats, and Chickens--and My Tree Adventure
Mollie has been finding her place in the animal household, and in the
people household. She finally recognizes that, though I am weak and
and not that healthy, I still have more power than she. And since we
both defend the cat, that puts her and the chickens on equal level.
Except the chickens aren't afraid of her and more or less ignore her,
and Mr. Natural and myself. are careful about chicken-dog interactions.
Since the incident with that dog running rampant in the yard, they have afraid
to leave the yard. I know which predator killed Sweetie. That bird dog of
theirs. But it's not the dogs fault. It's theirs--they let the dog loose--no leash--
knowing our chickens were in the yard. And we went to do battle for them.
And the chickens saw the whole thing. They trust us to watch over them. And
we do. Meanwhile there is no barking from their yard. They have crated their
dogs--they are no longer in their dog pens. Sound a bit guilty to you? Yes,
me too. And not a single apology--which should have come after the first
chicken, Big Red, died. She said, the woman who hates chicken but had
not a problem taking our eggs, that she heard us calling Big Red. I told
her that we called to make ourselves feel better, but Big Red was deaf, so
couldn't even try to defend herself. She looked surprised and guilty when
I said that. The chickens knew--they huddled close together all night and
didn't forage except in the yard the next day. Madellyn took off in a fit of
anger up the hill towards their house--and was never seen again. After
that incident, I started going after them when they went in that direction
causing the fall in which I injured my neck and back. When Sweetie
disappeared in the same direction, I did walk up the hill once--it was
not the brightest thing I've ever done. But I did it anyway. When I heard
the dogs barking and growling, I knew even if I tried to walk the hill
a second time, that she was already dead, and I couldn't bear to see her.
Both Mr. Natural and myself regret that decision. But bodywise, I just
couln't climb that hill a second time. They know we know now. That is
why they're locking their dogs in cages. Poor dogs--why have dogs if you're
not going to walk them , train them. I think they would all be better off
with different owners. And I never saw them interacting with their dogs.
They "rescued" some of the dogs. From what? Better owners?
Mollie is lucky. Both of us work consistently with her every day. She
has Puppy Chow and water available 24/7. She has glucosamine/chrondroitin
chews every day. Puppy Vitamins for her size--and 4 different kinds of treats
for good behavior. She has the command Sit down pat. I am working on
Stay and Come now. Mr Natural does the walking and plans to start
working on Heel soon. She is brushed and cleaned with wipes (eco-
friendly ones) every morning. Mr Natural helped me this morning and I was
able to clean her ears. And they needed it!
The chickens got yogurt tonight--only I saved some of it for Mollie--she loves
it. It's very beneficial in restoring harmony to their guts in replacing enzymes
necessary for balancing the bacteria in their guts.
The chickens have a preference for the type of paper used in their "nest" (sink).
The nice off white paper used in packing boxes--well, they don't like it all, and
if we don't switch to newsprint, not only will they not get in the sink to lay, but
they stand around the sink and make so much noise, Blondie being the loudest,
until we come and rectify the situation--by giving them what they want.
Now for the tree. And this is funny--I bought this tree because the leaves turn
golden in the fall, and it dates back to prehistoric times. Never thought that
the tree could have something that caused its survival, besides being a well
known source for the herb ginko. Mr. Natural wasn't pleased. At all. Then
he looked up the tree and read to me--the tree dropped something all year.
Something fragrant. The smell was described as a cross between vomit and
dog poop. OK--I goofed, really goofed. No more of buying prehistoric
trees.
All for tonight--
Kate Thorn
people household. She finally recognizes that, though I am weak and
and not that healthy, I still have more power than she. And since we
both defend the cat, that puts her and the chickens on equal level.
Except the chickens aren't afraid of her and more or less ignore her,
and Mr. Natural and myself. are careful about chicken-dog interactions.
Since the incident with that dog running rampant in the yard, they have afraid
to leave the yard. I know which predator killed Sweetie. That bird dog of
theirs. But it's not the dogs fault. It's theirs--they let the dog loose--no leash--
knowing our chickens were in the yard. And we went to do battle for them.
And the chickens saw the whole thing. They trust us to watch over them. And
we do. Meanwhile there is no barking from their yard. They have crated their
dogs--they are no longer in their dog pens. Sound a bit guilty to you? Yes,
me too. And not a single apology--which should have come after the first
chicken, Big Red, died. She said, the woman who hates chicken but had
not a problem taking our eggs, that she heard us calling Big Red. I told
her that we called to make ourselves feel better, but Big Red was deaf, so
couldn't even try to defend herself. She looked surprised and guilty when
I said that. The chickens knew--they huddled close together all night and
didn't forage except in the yard the next day. Madellyn took off in a fit of
anger up the hill towards their house--and was never seen again. After
that incident, I started going after them when they went in that direction
causing the fall in which I injured my neck and back. When Sweetie
disappeared in the same direction, I did walk up the hill once--it was
not the brightest thing I've ever done. But I did it anyway. When I heard
the dogs barking and growling, I knew even if I tried to walk the hill
a second time, that she was already dead, and I couldn't bear to see her.
Both Mr. Natural and myself regret that decision. But bodywise, I just
couln't climb that hill a second time. They know we know now. That is
why they're locking their dogs in cages. Poor dogs--why have dogs if you're
not going to walk them , train them. I think they would all be better off
with different owners. And I never saw them interacting with their dogs.
They "rescued" some of the dogs. From what? Better owners?
Mollie is lucky. Both of us work consistently with her every day. She
has Puppy Chow and water available 24/7. She has glucosamine/chrondroitin
chews every day. Puppy Vitamins for her size--and 4 different kinds of treats
for good behavior. She has the command Sit down pat. I am working on
Stay and Come now. Mr Natural does the walking and plans to start
working on Heel soon. She is brushed and cleaned with wipes (eco-
friendly ones) every morning. Mr Natural helped me this morning and I was
able to clean her ears. And they needed it!
The chickens got yogurt tonight--only I saved some of it for Mollie--she loves
it. It's very beneficial in restoring harmony to their guts in replacing enzymes
necessary for balancing the bacteria in their guts.
The chickens have a preference for the type of paper used in their "nest" (sink).
The nice off white paper used in packing boxes--well, they don't like it all, and
if we don't switch to newsprint, not only will they not get in the sink to lay, but
they stand around the sink and make so much noise, Blondie being the loudest,
until we come and rectify the situation--by giving them what they want.
Now for the tree. And this is funny--I bought this tree because the leaves turn
golden in the fall, and it dates back to prehistoric times. Never thought that
the tree could have something that caused its survival, besides being a well
known source for the herb ginko. Mr. Natural wasn't pleased. At all. Then
he looked up the tree and read to me--the tree dropped something all year.
Something fragrant. The smell was described as a cross between vomit and
dog poop. OK--I goofed, really goofed. No more of buying prehistoric
trees.
All for tonight--
Kate Thorn
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Mollie and Daisy
Mollie is tough. Daisy katows her on the nose--and she never yelps--she backs up.
shaking her head, stopping to rub her nose with her paws. Daisy antagonizes her
to no end. She sidles up to Mollie's food and water bowls, and Mollie's instinctive
reaction is to protect her bowl. She stops when we tell her to, which for a 3 month
old pup is amazing. She continues to try to be friends with Daisy who hisses at her
overtures of friendship.
Daisy hasn't been feeling well lately. She will be 10 years old this summer. Considering
her health history, that is amazing also. She quit drinking all water again. Became
severely constipated because of lack of fluids. Carolyn had told me about a slurry--
water with 1/2 cup (or 1/4 cup) of mashed up catfood in it. In trying to get to food.,
she drinks all the water. I added 1200 mg of flax seed oil . This has worked before.
We bought another house--hoping to flip this one, instead of renting it. Someday we
will have a goodly income stream.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
shaking her head, stopping to rub her nose with her paws. Daisy antagonizes her
to no end. She sidles up to Mollie's food and water bowls, and Mollie's instinctive
reaction is to protect her bowl. She stops when we tell her to, which for a 3 month
old pup is amazing. She continues to try to be friends with Daisy who hisses at her
overtures of friendship.
Daisy hasn't been feeling well lately. She will be 10 years old this summer. Considering
her health history, that is amazing also. She quit drinking all water again. Became
severely constipated because of lack of fluids. Carolyn had told me about a slurry--
water with 1/2 cup (or 1/4 cup) of mashed up catfood in it. In trying to get to food.,
she drinks all the water. I added 1200 mg of flax seed oil . This has worked before.
We bought another house--hoping to flip this one, instead of renting it. Someday we
will have a goodly income stream.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
Friday, March 7, 2014
Neurosurgeon Visit
This turned out to be a good visit. The narrowing in my cervical are
was very minimal and caused by a "tiny bone spur" not worthy of
surgery unless I "reay" wanted it. I couldn't say "No" fast enough. Dr.
Loomis was as nice as could be. I trusted him immediately. He also
told me what I had been thinking--this was muscle pain due to the 2 recent
falls.
No return visit necessary.
Next week on the 11th is a visit with Dr. Queen; the following week is the
cardiologist appointment.
Fun, fun.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
was very minimal and caused by a "tiny bone spur" not worthy of
surgery unless I "reay" wanted it. I couldn't say "No" fast enough. Dr.
Loomis was as nice as could be. I trusted him immediately. He also
told me what I had been thinking--this was muscle pain due to the 2 recent
falls.
No return visit necessary.
Next week on the 11th is a visit with Dr. Queen; the following week is the
cardiologist appointment.
Fun, fun.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
Princess Pees a Lot
Thus life and the battle to potty train Mollie continues. She continues to go outside part
of the day--and well, inside, the rest of the day. There doesn't seem to be a rhyme or
reason to her choices. But choices they are definitely hers. IF I could catch her in time . . .
but that is a process that is top secret--and for such a clumsy puppie, she is amazingly
quiet when it comes to that process.. Really ultra quiet. Any other time, you can hear
her claws hit the wooden floor--but when she decides to pee. She is silent. Very! And
if try to follow her around, she thinks that is a invitation to play. And then there are the times
when you are following her around (I do a lot of that trying to catch her in the act and
redirect her.)--those are times she drops and pees right in front of me. Completely
unashamed. I scold her; she looks confused--then I feel guilty. Yeah, guilty from
trying to potty-train her. She's only nearing 13 weeks--and she does get it part of
the time. Part of the time--well, her nickname Princess Pees a Lot tells the rest of the
story. I have owned large breeds before. But I was always able to take them out
on a leash. I've just had too many falls lately--and did I mention that she is strong,
already. She could pull me down easily. So this is my compromise--I put her on
the deck until she pees. She usually calms down after she finds her ultimate pee-spot.
She can search for one for quite a while. When I give up, let her in--it's cold outside--
she goes straight for the dining room--at least she avoids the sunroom--it is carpeted.
So I mop up lots of pee in only a couple of floods, I mean "accidents"--she has trained
me well to clean up after her! Thus goes life with puppy. Did I tell you that I am
completely smitten with her--even though time to write has come to a screeching
halt!
Well, it's time to let her back in--it's cold outside--she'll go pee in the dining room
after that--or play "Let's use Mom as a chewtoy!" Not a fun game for me. I remind
myself daily, many times daily, that she's only a puppy once.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
of the day--and well, inside, the rest of the day. There doesn't seem to be a rhyme or
reason to her choices. But choices they are definitely hers. IF I could catch her in time . . .
but that is a process that is top secret--and for such a clumsy puppie, she is amazingly
quiet when it comes to that process.. Really ultra quiet. Any other time, you can hear
her claws hit the wooden floor--but when she decides to pee. She is silent. Very! And
if try to follow her around, she thinks that is a invitation to play. And then there are the times
when you are following her around (I do a lot of that trying to catch her in the act and
redirect her.)--those are times she drops and pees right in front of me. Completely
unashamed. I scold her; she looks confused--then I feel guilty. Yeah, guilty from
trying to potty-train her. She's only nearing 13 weeks--and she does get it part of
the time. Part of the time--well, her nickname Princess Pees a Lot tells the rest of the
story. I have owned large breeds before. But I was always able to take them out
on a leash. I've just had too many falls lately--and did I mention that she is strong,
already. She could pull me down easily. So this is my compromise--I put her on
the deck until she pees. She usually calms down after she finds her ultimate pee-spot.
She can search for one for quite a while. When I give up, let her in--it's cold outside--
she goes straight for the dining room--at least she avoids the sunroom--it is carpeted.
So I mop up lots of pee in only a couple of floods, I mean "accidents"--she has trained
me well to clean up after her! Thus goes life with puppy. Did I tell you that I am
completely smitten with her--even though time to write has come to a screeching
halt!
Well, it's time to let her back in--it's cold outside--she'll go pee in the dining room
after that--or play "Let's use Mom as a chewtoy!" Not a fun game for me. I remind
myself daily, many times daily, that she's only a puppy once.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Mollies First Vet Trip
Mollie Peacenik went to the vet. She was given all the attention--she sat in
Mr. Naturals lap--she now weighs 29 lbs as of today. She has gained 9 poumds
since her arrival here. The people at the vet's fell in love with her. Of course
she was bathed on Sunday. She pranced and showed off--very girly. Did well
with the receiving of 12 week old shots. They gave us Tifexis for Heart Worm
prevention, worm and flea prevention. I had heard of it, but couldn't place it.
My cat Daisy, cannot take any of these multiple products
due to her heart disease.
Mollie is the picture of health. The vet said they were free, but that rang a bell.
First thing I did after we got Mollie---oh, I'm leaving out the part where Mr.
Natural had her on the leash--and Miss Mollie-Lolly got loose and headed
for the very active 4 lane highway. Not good. And Mr. Natural tackled her.
Yes, tackled her --he dove face first in the pavement to save "my baby".
Mollie looked completely startled. She didn't know how she ended up
on his chest. He said I looked equally startled. I definitely didn't see that
coming.
On arriving home, I looked up Trifexis--to my horror I read about 700 dogs
dying within a week of taking Trifexis. They followed one litter of 10
puppies--7 were still living,. Those 7 did not receive Trifexis. The other
3 received Trifexis Free from the vet. And with a week they were all
dead. I am not saying that every dog that received Trifexis died. But
there is a reason thet Trifexis is free. They need some positive statistics.
I will go with something older and one that has positive results. One
dog dying is too many is that one dog is your dog..
All for now.
Kate Thorn
Note--Pic of Mollie as she plays with her first empty box of puppie
Milk Bones. One of her favorite toys.
Mr. Naturals lap--she now weighs 29 lbs as of today. She has gained 9 poumds
since her arrival here. The people at the vet's fell in love with her. Of course
she was bathed on Sunday. She pranced and showed off--very girly. Did well
with the receiving of 12 week old shots. They gave us Tifexis for Heart Worm
prevention, worm and flea prevention. I had heard of it, but couldn't place it.
My cat Daisy, cannot take any of these multiple products
Mollie is the picture of health. The vet said they were free, but that rang a bell.
First thing I did after we got Mollie---oh, I'm leaving out the part where Mr.
Natural had her on the leash--and Miss Mollie-Lolly got loose and headed
for the very active 4 lane highway. Not good. And Mr. Natural tackled her.
Yes, tackled her --he dove face first in the pavement to save "my baby".
Mollie looked completely startled. She didn't know how she ended up
on his chest. He said I looked equally startled. I definitely didn't see that
coming.
On arriving home, I looked up Trifexis--to my horror I read about 700 dogs
dying within a week of taking Trifexis. They followed one litter of 10
puppies--7 were still living,. Those 7 did not receive Trifexis. The other
3 received Trifexis Free from the vet. And with a week they were all
dead. I am not saying that every dog that received Trifexis died. But
there is a reason thet Trifexis is free. They need some positive statistics.
I will go with something older and one that has positive results. One
dog dying is too many is that one dog is your dog..
All for now.
Kate Thorn
Note--Pic of Mollie as she plays with her first empty box of puppie
Milk Bones. One of her favorite toys.
Opthalmologist Visit--Finally
I went to see the ophthalmologist on the 26th of January. I was scared.
the news was mixed, but no one ever told me. . My eyes had improve a
great deal--but I had toget my Blood Pressure down--and keep it down.
Each time my BP went above 200 systolic, I was getting hemorrhages in my
eyes--which could permanently damage my eyes--notto mention the
possibility of a stroke.
So I got home and that night I took a pill that I was prescribed a year ago,
but I didn't take probably in fear that it would react in a paradoxical
fashion--my BP would go up, not down. The next morning I took the
full dose of Clonidine--0.1 mg. Crossed my fingers and prayed. An hour
later I checked my BP again. It was 119/60. I could not recall when
it had been that low. But the true test was would it stay that way.
Meanwhile I was still taking Lasix--yes, it was presribed, but as a prn
med, not an everyday med. I was also taking Potassium 20 because
Lasix is a wonderful drug but makes you lose Potassium. Potassium in
conjunction with Calcium, sodium, and magnesium is responsible for
for making your heart beat.
So not having enough Potassium is dangerous. It can kill you.
Here is a blurb on electolytes and their importance:
Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page,
add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content.
Link to this page
OK--enough about electolytes.
All for now
Kate Thorn
the news was mixed, but no one ever told me. . My eyes had improve a
great deal--but I had toget my Blood Pressure down--and keep it down.
Each time my BP went above 200 systolic, I was getting hemorrhages in my
eyes--which could permanently damage my eyes--notto mention the
possibility of a stroke.
So I got home and that night I took a pill that I was prescribed a year ago,
but I didn't take probably in fear that it would react in a paradoxical
fashion--my BP would go up, not down. The next morning I took the
full dose of Clonidine--0.1 mg. Crossed my fingers and prayed. An hour
later I checked my BP again. It was 119/60. I could not recall when
it had been that low. But the true test was would it stay that way.
Meanwhile I was still taking Lasix--yes, it was presribed, but as a prn
med, not an everyday med. I was also taking Potassium 20 because
Lasix is a wonderful drug but makes you lose Potassium. Potassium in
conjunction with Calcium, sodium, and magnesium is responsible for
for making your heart beat.
So not having enough Potassium is dangerous. It can kill you.
Here is a blurb on electolytes and their importance:
Electrolyte Disorders
Definition
An
electrolyte disorder is an imbalance of certain ionized salts (i.e.,
bicarbonate, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, and
sodium) in the blood.
Description
Electrolytes
are ionized molecules found throughout the blood, tissues,
and cells of
the body. These molecules, which are either positive (cations)
or
negative (anions), conduct an electric current and help to balance pH
and acid-base levels in the body. Electrolytes also facilitate the
passage
of fluid between and within cells through a process known as osmosis and
play a part in regulating the function of the neuromuscular, endocrine, and
excretory systems. The serum electrolytes include:
- Sodium (Na). A positively charged electrolyte that helps to balance
- fluid levels in the body and facilitates neuromuscular functioning.
- Potassium (K). A main component of cellular fluid, this positive
- electrolyte helps to regulate neuromuscular function and osmotic
- pressure.
- Calcium (Ca). A cation, or positive electrolyte, that affects
- neuromuscular performance and contributes to skeletal growth
- and blood coagulation.
- Magnesium (Mg). Influences muscle contractions and intracellular
- activity. A cation.
- Chloride (CI). An anion, or negative electrolyte, that regulates blood
- pressure.
- Phosphate (HPO4). Negative electrolyte that impacts metabolism
- and regulates acid-base balance and calcium levels
- .
- Bicarbonate (HCO3). A negatively charged electrolyte that assists
- in the regulation of blood pH levels. Bicarbonate insufficiencies and
- elevations cause acid-base disorders (i.e., acidosis, alkalosis).
Medications, chronic diseases, and trauma (for example, burns,
or
fractures etc.) may cause the concentration of certain electrolytes
in
the body to become too high (hyper-) or too low (hypo-). When this
happens, an electrolyte imbalance, or disorder, results.
Causes and symptoms
Sodium
HYPERNATREMIA.
Sodium helps the kidneys to regulate the amount of
water the body
retains or excretes. Consequently, individuals with elevated
serum
sodium levels also suffer from a loss of fluids, or dehydration.
Hypernatremia can be caused by inadequate water intake, excessive fluid loss
(i.e., diabetes insipidus, kidney disease, severe burns, and prolonged vomiting
or diarrhea),
or sodium retention (caused by excessive sodium intake or
aldosteronism). In addition, certain drugs, including loop diuretics,
corticosteroids,
and antihypertensive medications may cause elevated
sodium levels.
Symptoms of hypernatremia include:
- thirst
- orthostatic hypotension
- dry mouth and mucous membranes
- dark, concentrated urine
- loss of elasticity in the skin
- irregular heartbeat (tachycardia)
- irritability
- fatigue
- lethargy
- heavy, labored breathing
- muscle twitching and/or seizures
HYPONATREMIA.
Up to 1% of all hospitalized patients and as many as
18% of nursing
home patients develop hyponatremia, making it one of the
most common
electrolyte disorders. A 2004 study questioned the routine
make-up of
fluids prescribed for children and delivered intravenously
(through a
needle into a vein) in hospitals today. The authors recommended
only
using IV fluids when necessary and then using isotonic saline.
Diuretics,
certain psychoactive drugs (i.e., fluoxetine, sertraline, haloperidol),
specific antipsychotics (lithium), vasopressin, chlorpropamide, the
illicit drug
"ecstasy," and other pharmaceuticals can cause decreased
sodium levels,
or hyponatremia.
Low sodium levels may also be triggered by inadequate
dietary intake of
sodium, excessive perspiration, water intoxication, and
impairment of
adrenal gland or kidney function.
Symptoms of hyponatremia include:
- nausea, abdominal cramping, and/or vomiting
- headache
- edema (swelling)
- muscle weakness and/or tremor
- paralysis
- disorientation
- slowed breathing
- seizures
- coma
Potassium
HYPERKALEMIA. Hyperkalemia may be caused by ketoacidosis (diabetic coma),
myocardial infarction (heart attack), severe burns, kidney failure, fasting,
bulimia
nervosa, gastrointestinal bleeding, adrenal insufficiency, or
Addison's disease. Diuretic
drugs, cyclosporin, lithium, heparin, ACE
inhibitors, beta blockers, and trimethoprim
can increase serum potassium levels, as can heavy exercise. The condition may also
be secondary to hypernatremia (low serum concentrations of sodium). Symptoms
may include:
- weakness
- nausea and/or abdominal pain
- irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- diarrhea
- muscle pain
HYPOKALEMIA. Severe dehydration, aldosteronism, Cushing's syndrome,
kidney disease, long-term diuretic therapy, certain penicillins, laxative abuse,
congestive heart failure,
and adrenal gland impairments can all cause depletion
of potassium
levels in the bloodstream. A substance known as glycyrrhetinic
acid,
which is found in licorice and chewing tobacco, can also deplete
potassium
serum levels. Symptoms of hypokalemia include:
- weakness
- paralysis
- increased urination
- irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- orthostatic hypotension
- muscle pain
- tetany
Calcium
HYPERCALCEMIA. Blood calcium levels may be elevated in cases of thyroid
syndrome, and Paget's disease. Excessive use of
calcium-containing supplements
and certain over-the-counter medications
(i.e., antacids) may also cause hypercalcemia.
In infants, lesser known causes may include blue diaper syndrome, Williams syndrome,
secondary hyperparathyroidism from maternal hypocalcemia, and dietary phosphat
e deficiency. Symptoms include:
- fatigue
- constipation
- depression
- confusion
- muscle pain
- nausea and vomiting
- dehydration
- increased urination
- irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
HYPOCALCEMIA.
Thyroid disorders, kidney failure, severe burns, sepsis,
vitamin D
deficiency, and medications such as heparin and glucogan can deplete
blood calcium levels. Lowered levels cause:
- muscle cramps and spasms
- tetany and/or convulsions
- mood changes (depression, irritability)
- dry skin
- brittle nails
- facial twitching
Magnesium
HYPERMAGNESEMIA.
Excessive magnesium levels may occur with end-stage
renal disease,
Addison's disease, or an overdose of magnesium salts. Hypermagnesemia
is
characterized by:
- lethargy
- hypotension
- decreased heart and respiratory rate
- muscle weakness
- diminished tendon reflexes
HYPOMAGNESEMIA. Inadequate dietary intake of magnesium, often caused
by chronic alcoholism or malnutrition, is a common cause of hypomagnesemia.
Other causes include malabsorption syndromes, pancreatitis,
aldosteronism,
burns, hyperparathyroidism, digestive system disorders,
and diuretic use. Symptoms
of low serum magnesium levels include:
- leg and foot cramps
- weight loss
- vomiting
- muscle spasms, twitching, and tremors
- seizures
- muscle weakness
- arrthymia
Chloride
HYPERCHLOREMIA. Severe
dehydration, kidney failure, hemodialysis, traumatic
brain injury, and
aldosteronism can also cause hyperchloremia. Drugs such as boric
acid
and ammonium chloride and the intravenous (IV) infusion of sodium
chloride
can also boost chloride levels, resulting in hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis.
Symptoms include:
- weakness
- headache
- nausea
- cardiac arrest
HYPOCHLOREMIA. Hypochloremia usually
occurs as a result of sodium and
potassium depletion (i.e.,
hyponatremia, hypokalemia). Severe depletion of
serum chloride levels
causes metabolic alkalosis. This alkalization of the
bloodstream is characterized by:
- mental confusion
- slowed breathing
- paralysis
- muscle tension or spasm
Phosphate
HYPERPHOSPHATEMIA. Skeletal fractures or disease, kidney failure,
hypoparathyroidism,
hemodialysis, diabetic ketoacidosis, acromegaly,
systemic infection,
and intestinal obstruction can all cause phosphate
retention and
build-up in the blood. The disorder occurs concurrently
with
hypocalcemia. Individuals with mild hyperphosphatemia are
typically
asymptomatic, but signs of severe hyperphosphatemia include:
- tingling in hands and fingers
- muscle spasms and cramps
- convulsions
- cardiac arrest
HYPOPHOSPHATEMIA. Serum phosphate levels
of 2 mg/dL or
below may be caused by hypomagnesemia and hypokalemia.
Severe
burns, alcoholism, diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism,
hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, malnutrition, hemodialysis,
vitamin D deficiency,
and prolonged diuretic therapy can also diminish blood
phosphate
levels. There are typically few physical signs of mild phosphate
depletion.
Symptoms of severe hypophosphatemia include:
- muscle weakness
- weight loss
- bone deformities (osteomalacia)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is performed
by a physician or other qualified healthcare provider
who will take a
medical history, discuss symptoms, perform a complete
physical
examination, and prescribe appropriate laboratory tests. Because
electrolyte disorders commonly affect the neuromuscular system, the
provider
will test reflexes. If a calcium imbalance is suspected, the
physician will also
check for Chvostek's sign, a reflex test that
triggers an involuntary facial twitch,
and Trousseau's sign, a muscle
spasm that occurs in response to pressure on the
upper arm. Serum
electrolyte imbalances can be detected through blood tests.
Blood is
drawn from a vein on the back of the hand or inside of the elbow by a
medical technician, or phlebotomist, and analyzed at a lab.
Normal levels of electrolytes are:
- Sodium. 135-145 mEq/L (serum)
- Potassium. 3.5-5.5 mEq/L (serum)
- Calcium. 8.8-10.4 mg/dL (total Ca; serum); 4.7-5.2 mg/dL (unbound Ca; serum)
- Magnesium. 1.4-2.1 mEq/L (plasma)
- Chloride. 100-108 mEq/L (serum)
- Phosphate. 2.5-4.5 mg/dL (plasma; adults)
Standard ranges for test results may vary
due to differing laboratory standards and
physiological variances
(gender, age, and other factors). Other blood tests that
determine pH
levels and acid-base balance may also be performed.
Treatment
Treatment
of electrolyte disorders depends on the underlying cause of the
problem
and the type of electrolyte involved. If the disorder is caused by
poor
diet or improper fluid intake, nutritional changes may be prescribed.
If medications such as diuretics triggered the imbalance, discontinuing
or
adjusting the drug therapy may effectively treat the condition. Fluid
and electrolyte replacement therapy, either intravenously or by mouth,
can reverse electrolyte depletion.
Hemodialysis
treatment may be required to reduce serum potassium levels
in
hyperkalemic patients with impaired kidney function. It may also be
ecommended for renal patients suffering from severe hypermagnesemia.
Prognosis
A
patient's long-term prognosis depends upon the root cause of the
electrolyte
disorder. However, when treated quickly and appropriately,
electrolyte imbalances
in and of themselves are usually effectively
reversed.
When they are mild, some electrolyte
imbalances have few to no symptoms and
may pass unnoticed. For example,
transient hyperphosphatemia is usually fairly benign.
However, long-term
elevations of blood phosphate levels can lead to potentially
fatal soft
tissue and vascular calcifications and bone disease, and severe serum
phosphate deficiencies (hypophosphatemia) can cause encephalopathy,
coma, and death.
Severe
hypernatremia has a mortality rate of 40-60%. Death is commonly due
to
cerebrovascular damage and hemorrhage resulting from dehydration and
shrinkage of the brain cells.
Prevention
Physicians
should use caution when prescribing drugs known to affect electrolyte
levels and acid-base balance. Individuals with kidney disease, thyroid
problems,
and other conditions that may place them at risk for
developing an electrolyte
disorder should be educated on the signs and
symptoms.
Resources
Books
Post, Theodore, and Burton Rose. Clinical Physiology of Acid-Base
and Electrolyte Disorders. 5th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2001.
Periodicals
Cohn,
Jay N., et al. "New Guidelines for Potassium Replacement in
Clinical
Practice: A Contemporary Review by the National Council
on Potassium in
Clinical Practice." Archives of Internal Medicine 160,
no.16 (September 11, 2000): 2429-36.
Goh, Kian Ping. "Management of Hyponatremia." American Family
Physician May 15, 2004: 2387.
Moritz, Michael L., Juan Carlos Ayus. "Hospital-acquired Hyponatremia:
Why are There Still Deaths?" Pediatrics May 2004: 1395-1397.
Springate, James E., Mary F. Carroll. "HAdditional Causes of Hypercalcemia
in Infants." American Family Physician June 15, 2004: 2766.
Key terms
Acid-base balance — A balance of acidity and alkalinity of fluids in the
body that keeps the pH level of blood around 7.35-7.45.
Addison's disease — A disease characterized by a deficiency in adrenocortical
hormones due to destruction of the adrenal gland.
Aldosteronism
— A condition defined by high serum levels of aldosterone, a
hormone
secreted by the adrenal gland that is responsible for increasing sodium
reabsorption in the kidneys.
Bulimia nervosa — An eating disorder characterized by binging and purging
(self-induced vomiting) behaviors.
Milk-alkali syndrome
— Elevated blood calcium levels and alkalosis caused
by excessive
intake of milk and alkalis. Usually occurs in the treatment of peptic
ulcer.
Orthostatic hypotension
— A drop in blood pressure that causes faintness or
dizziness and
occurs when one rises to a standing position. Also known as
postural
hypotension.
Osmotic pressure
— Pressure that occurs when two solutions of differing
concentrations
are separated by a semipermeable membrane, such as a
cellular wall, and
the lower concentration solute is drawn across the membrane
into the
higher concentration solute (osmosis)
.
Tetany
— A disorder of the nervous system characterized by muscle cramps,
spasms of the arms and legs, and numbness of the extremities.
Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Copyright 2008 The Gale Group, Inc.
All rights reserved.
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OK--enough about electolytes.
All for now
Kate Thorn
Thursday, February 20, 2014
ER Visit on Saturday and a Dismal Sunday
I had been having chest pain on and off all day Saturday. Around 7PM,
the pain became serious. The pain ran down my left arm and it became
numb. That got my attention.
I have an autoimmune disease, polymyositis, which affects all the muscles
in my body, including my heart. So that is the why of my delay.
They jumped into high gear when Mr. Natural told them I was having chest
pain. I am not very good at being on the receiving end of healthcare.
They drew cardiac enzymes, took my blood pressure frequently, and admitted
me. I was stuck in a hosp--my worst nightmare--because I am alleric to
nearly all meds.
I was discharged at 3PM the following day with instructions to see my doctor.
They concluded that the polymyositis was responsible for the chest pain.
Going home was great. And a disaster. Mollie (new puppie) was on
the back porch; I heard all this screaming. So I went on the backporch
to see what the ruckus was all about. There was this girl screaming and
crying hysterically in my driveway. I had never seen her before. I asked
what was wrong. She was yelling, crying--said she was sorry and didn't
mean for it to happen--again I asked "What?" She said, "My dog got loose
and is chasing your chickens." I noted there was no leash in her hand. I
turned to go and tell Mr. Natural of the situation--when I lost my balance
and went screaming and flying through the air. I landed hard--3 falls to my
back in a time span of 5 weeks. Not a good thing. I had been taking Baclofen
due to the severity of my back and neck pain--and it does help. Anyway. Mr.
came to rescue me--and I told him I was alive, but there was a springer spaniel
in the yard and chasing our chickens. The screaming continued. I had to know
what was going on. I drug myself to the railing and slowly pulled myself up to
a standing position. Mollie was watching everything.
I walked slowly through the house, and made it to the front door. By
then Dad and Mom had joined the screaming girl. She obviously knew
nothing about dogs. Screaming only excites the dog further. Then the
Dad said "I'll pay you for the d--- chickens. My Natural was trying to
defuse the situation, but when "that man" said what he did--I was furious--
and for good reason. When the chickens first went to their house, we both
went there and told them we would keep them up, just to please let us
know, and we gave them a dozen eggs. They told us later they loved the
eggs and the chickens were welcome anytime. They had quit hanging
out near their house. These people have 6 dogs--3 big ones and 3 very
ill-tempered and poorly trained dachshunds. More than one had snapped
at me. They were smart enough not to bite me though. By that time I had
already lost one chicken. They had told me their dachshunds were hunters.
The woman then said, "Keep your d--- chickens out of our yard." The chickens
had not been anywhere close to their house due to the fact that I suspected
they had turned the dogs loose on a lone chicken more than once, and I was
watching them extra close due to loss of Sweetie. I know those 3 mutts killed
Sweetie. I couldn't prove it--but about time she was due to show up, those
3 beasties started barking and growling, and where it went down was exactly
where Sweetie would leave the road to cut through the yard and come down
the hill headed home. I had fallen on that hill. That "Good Christian"
woman saw me on the ground, no way to get up, and turned and walked
back in the house. That type of religious belief turns my stomach. "True
Christians" would never act like they were acting the time I fell. Or try to
blame the chickens for their dog's behavior. I lost it then. My puppy will
outweigh their mastiff by the time it reaches 6 months to a year. It is gaining
4 pounds per week. It was stupid what I said, and I wish I hadn't said
it now. Means I can never leave her outside alone. I don't trust any of
them. They have 6 dogs. In this state you have to have a kennel license
to have even 5 dogs. I said, that I had a dog, and within 6 months if any
of their mutts came into our yard--they wouldn't leave alive. Mr. Natural
told me quietly I was making things worse and to go back in the house.
I did--by then I could barely walk.
I ended up with 4 bulging discs in my lower back and one not as badly
damaged disc in neck area. Messed up--oh yeah, And I'm allergic to
anesthesia and most drugs given IV. I just quit breathing. So if it wasn't for
Mollie, I don't know what I'd do. She has kept me distracted with her
puppie antics.
All for now---
Kate Thorn
the pain became serious. The pain ran down my left arm and it became
numb. That got my attention.
I have an autoimmune disease, polymyositis, which affects all the muscles
in my body, including my heart. So that is the why of my delay.
They jumped into high gear when Mr. Natural told them I was having chest
pain. I am not very good at being on the receiving end of healthcare.
They drew cardiac enzymes, took my blood pressure frequently, and admitted
me. I was stuck in a hosp--my worst nightmare--because I am alleric to
nearly all meds.
I was discharged at 3PM the following day with instructions to see my doctor.
They concluded that the polymyositis was responsible for the chest pain.
Going home was great. And a disaster. Mollie (new puppie) was on
the back porch; I heard all this screaming. So I went on the backporch
to see what the ruckus was all about. There was this girl screaming and
crying hysterically in my driveway. I had never seen her before. I asked
what was wrong. She was yelling, crying--said she was sorry and didn't
mean for it to happen--again I asked "What?" She said, "My dog got loose
and is chasing your chickens." I noted there was no leash in her hand. I
turned to go and tell Mr. Natural of the situation--when I lost my balance
and went screaming and flying through the air. I landed hard--3 falls to my
back in a time span of 5 weeks. Not a good thing. I had been taking Baclofen
due to the severity of my back and neck pain--and it does help. Anyway. Mr.
came to rescue me--and I told him I was alive, but there was a springer spaniel
in the yard and chasing our chickens. The screaming continued. I had to know
what was going on. I drug myself to the railing and slowly pulled myself up to
a standing position. Mollie was watching everything.
I walked slowly through the house, and made it to the front door. By
then Dad and Mom had joined the screaming girl. She obviously knew
nothing about dogs. Screaming only excites the dog further. Then the
Dad said "I'll pay you for the d--- chickens. My Natural was trying to
defuse the situation, but when "that man" said what he did--I was furious--
and for good reason. When the chickens first went to their house, we both
went there and told them we would keep them up, just to please let us
know, and we gave them a dozen eggs. They told us later they loved the
eggs and the chickens were welcome anytime. They had quit hanging
out near their house. These people have 6 dogs--3 big ones and 3 very
ill-tempered and poorly trained dachshunds. More than one had snapped
at me. They were smart enough not to bite me though. By that time I had
already lost one chicken. They had told me their dachshunds were hunters.
The woman then said, "Keep your d--- chickens out of our yard." The chickens
had not been anywhere close to their house due to the fact that I suspected
they had turned the dogs loose on a lone chicken more than once, and I was
watching them extra close due to loss of Sweetie. I know those 3 mutts killed
Sweetie. I couldn't prove it--but about time she was due to show up, those
3 beasties started barking and growling, and where it went down was exactly
where Sweetie would leave the road to cut through the yard and come down
the hill headed home. I had fallen on that hill. That "Good Christian"
woman saw me on the ground, no way to get up, and turned and walked
back in the house. That type of religious belief turns my stomach. "True
Christians" would never act like they were acting the time I fell. Or try to
blame the chickens for their dog's behavior. I lost it then. My puppy will
outweigh their mastiff by the time it reaches 6 months to a year. It is gaining
4 pounds per week. It was stupid what I said, and I wish I hadn't said
it now. Means I can never leave her outside alone. I don't trust any of
them. They have 6 dogs. In this state you have to have a kennel license
to have even 5 dogs. I said, that I had a dog, and within 6 months if any
of their mutts came into our yard--they wouldn't leave alive. Mr. Natural
told me quietly I was making things worse and to go back in the house.
I did--by then I could barely walk.
I ended up with 4 bulging discs in my lower back and one not as badly
damaged disc in neck area. Messed up--oh yeah, And I'm allergic to
anesthesia and most drugs given IV. I just quit breathing. So if it wasn't for
Mollie, I don't know what I'd do. She has kept me distracted with her
puppie antics.
All for now---
Kate Thorn
Friday, February 14, 2014
End of a Decade
On Friday I did a difficult thing. I have owned a beading group for
the past 10 years. I started it with 5 members and built slowly from
there. Two members left the group to start their own group. This was
nothing new. It has happened more times than I remember. And I wasn't
surprised.. One had written me unpleasant letters in hopes that I would
remove her from the group. But I refused to do so. I knew she could
use that against me. Make me out to be the bad guy. I knew what was
happening--did not know how she was getting the discounts she did. It
just didn't compute. I can't say anymore--except that there are times
when things aren't as they appear to be. This is definitely one of those times.
I turned ownership of the board over to 3 friends and moderators, Sue B,
Carolyn G, and Anna T. When I clear myself with Yahoo, I will come
back. I was accused of making inappropriate remarks on the forum.
And of running a group that was a business. However, businesses make
money. I was constantly going in the hole. This last person that left was
sent 70.00 to supposedly cover shipping charges over a buy someone
had started and she had finished. But I was told that all funds had been
received. I was so concerned about her finances. Should have focused
more on my own.
So now, I am missing my group. But I's must be dotted and T's must be
crossed. So that is the partial ending. The rest I truly cannot disclose.
All for now
Kate Thorn
the past 10 years. I started it with 5 members and built slowly from
there. Two members left the group to start their own group. This was
nothing new. It has happened more times than I remember. And I wasn't
surprised.. One had written me unpleasant letters in hopes that I would
remove her from the group. But I refused to do so. I knew she could
use that against me. Make me out to be the bad guy. I knew what was
happening--did not know how she was getting the discounts she did. It
just didn't compute. I can't say anymore--except that there are times
when things aren't as they appear to be. This is definitely one of those times.
I turned ownership of the board over to 3 friends and moderators, Sue B,
Carolyn G, and Anna T. When I clear myself with Yahoo, I will come
back. I was accused of making inappropriate remarks on the forum.
And of running a group that was a business. However, businesses make
money. I was constantly going in the hole. This last person that left was
sent 70.00 to supposedly cover shipping charges over a buy someone
had started and she had finished. But I was told that all funds had been
received. I was so concerned about her finances. Should have focused
more on my own.
So now, I am missing my group. But I's must be dotted and T's must be
crossed. So that is the partial ending. The rest I truly cannot disclose.
All for now
Kate Thorn
2-5-14--New Family Member
On Tuesdays the new weekly Iwanna comes out--The Iwanna is a
weekly newspaper that showcases individuals want-to-buy items
and wish-to-sell items. There is even a free section. It features houses
for sale or rent. You dream it up--the Iwanna has it. I moved to the
Asheville area for the first time time in 1979. My entire senior year
was based in Asheville--I did my clinical in Mission Hosp and the VA
Hosp and a pysch Hospital, Highlands Hospital. It was a private--
aimed toward wealthy clientele. I moved into a small house in May
of 1979 ; it had been completely remodeled. I stayed there until moving
to Colorado in Sept of 1980. I furnished the house from the Iwanna.
I bought an antique walnut wardrobe for 35.00, I bought a twin bed
for my daughter in Biltmore Village. It was painted blue and she threw in
the leftover blue paint. The paint was used to paint the extremely
ugly red bookcase for my daughter. She also had 2 dressers--
old and painted brown. Also from the Iwanna. The sleeper sofa
was small, perfect for a small living room.
Each room was furnished courtesy of the Iwanna. Moving back
to Asheville area brought back the habit of cruising the Iwanna.
And I found an 8 week old AKC Registered Great Pyrenees
female pup. I've never owned a purebred dog--I rescued every
animal I've except the Savannah monitor (a 6 inch long--not
counting the tail)which is a lizard. I had been looking for a
this particular breed so as to partially train it in hopes it could
be a service dog, but if not, at least it would be a good dog for
protection. This 8 week old pup weighed 20.2 pounds. She
isn't small at all. And very stubborn. The word no--well, she
will continue to do things like chew on computer cords and
furniture. No redirection works. I usually put her on the deck
to "cool off". She's already responding to her name, Mollie
Peacenik. Peacenik was Mr. Natural's choice for a last name.
Her collar is white with pink and red peace symbols. A very
girly collar. Mollie I picked--because I wanted her to reflect
her name. I named a dog Chewy once and lived to regret that
choice. So I picked a really sweet name.
She has her days and nights mixed up. She is making headway
on potty-training. Her favorite habit is awakening at 0300
to potty and not wanting to go directly back to sleep. I stagger
out of bed at 0300 every night and I may get an hour nap
sometime in the early morning. So I stay sleep deprived the
rest of the day. But she keeps my mind busy with her antics,
so I haven't had the time to worry about my personal health
and the implications thereof.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
weekly newspaper that showcases individuals want-to-buy items
and wish-to-sell items. There is even a free section. It features houses
for sale or rent. You dream it up--the Iwanna has it. I moved to the
Asheville area for the first time time in 1979. My entire senior year
was based in Asheville--I did my clinical in Mission Hosp and the VA
Hosp and a pysch Hospital, Highlands Hospital. It was a private--
aimed toward wealthy clientele. I moved into a small house in May
of 1979 ; it had been completely remodeled. I stayed there until moving
to Colorado in Sept of 1980. I furnished the house from the Iwanna.
I bought an antique walnut wardrobe for 35.00, I bought a twin bed
for my daughter in Biltmore Village. It was painted blue and she threw in
the leftover blue paint. The paint was used to paint the extremely
ugly red bookcase for my daughter. She also had 2 dressers--
old and painted brown. Also from the Iwanna. The sleeper sofa
was small, perfect for a small living room.
Each room was furnished courtesy of the Iwanna. Moving back
to Asheville area brought back the habit of cruising the Iwanna.
And I found an 8 week old AKC Registered Great Pyrenees
female pup. I've never owned a purebred dog--I rescued every
animal I've except the Savannah monitor (a 6 inch long--not
counting the tail)which is a lizard. I had been looking for a
this particular breed so as to partially train it in hopes it could
be a service dog, but if not, at least it would be a good dog for
protection. This 8 week old pup weighed 20.2 pounds. She
isn't small at all. And very stubborn. The word no--well, she
will continue to do things like chew on computer cords and
furniture. No redirection works. I usually put her on the deck
to "cool off". She's already responding to her name, Mollie
Peacenik. Peacenik was Mr. Natural's choice for a last name.
Her collar is white with pink and red peace symbols. A very
girly collar. Mollie I picked--because I wanted her to reflect
her name. I named a dog Chewy once and lived to regret that
choice. So I picked a really sweet name.
She has her days and nights mixed up. She is making headway
on potty-training. Her favorite habit is awakening at 0300
to potty and not wanting to go directly back to sleep. I stagger
out of bed at 0300 every night and I may get an hour nap
sometime in the early morning. So I stay sleep deprived the
rest of the day. But she keeps my mind busy with her antics,
so I haven't had the time to worry about my personal health
and the implications thereof.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
Eye Exam 2-2-14
It was an ordinary eye exam--except that it had been a year longer that
the recommended 2 years. And I had been having difficulty seeing for
the past two to three weeks. Difficulty seeing the keyboard, and so forth.
I wasn't concerned--except that I was terrified. I could actually see the
the areas of hemorrhages. There were four in each eye. All I could think of
was the possibility of blindness. So I asked. The optometrist said
that it was caused by hypertension and, yes, blindness was a possibility
and that I needed to get my hypertension under control. Easily fixed for most
people. Every time I go on blood pressure medications, I react in an adverse
way. My BP goes up, not down. I get dizzy and extremely short of
breath. All the paperwork regarding this exam, was faxed to my doctor.
He called me the next day and wanted to know what was going on. I told
him what the optometrist had told me. First he told me take an aspirin, then
don't. He said he was going to schedule a ultrasound of my carotids. Which
he did-- for Monday.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
the recommended 2 years. And I had been having difficulty seeing for
the past two to three weeks. Difficulty seeing the keyboard, and so forth.
I wasn't concerned--except that I was terrified. I could actually see the
the areas of hemorrhages. There were four in each eye. All I could think of
was the possibility of blindness. So I asked. The optometrist said
that it was caused by hypertension and, yes, blindness was a possibility
and that I needed to get my hypertension under control. Easily fixed for most
people. Every time I go on blood pressure medications, I react in an adverse
way. My BP goes up, not down. I get dizzy and extremely short of
breath. All the paperwork regarding this exam, was faxed to my doctor.
He called me the next day and wanted to know what was going on. I told
him what the optometrist had told me. First he told me take an aspirin, then
don't. He said he was going to schedule a ultrasound of my carotids. Which
he did-- for Monday.
All for now--
Kate Thorn
Cold Weather
Cold weather has been going on for quite a while. The chicken have only
got to go on for as long as it took to to clean the bathroom--it gets a
thorough cleaning daily.
The chickens decided they weren't going to lay eggs outside. Thry
began to come to the door one by one--when we'd open the door,
in they'd strut, Go directly to the bathroom--stand directly in front
o the sink vanity and look up at us, as if to say, "Pick me up, please>"
Of course, we always picked them up, How could anyone say to
such beseeching looks?
I hope they don't expect such treatment come Spring.
Note--These are written in chronological order--but the actual date
they were written was today.
got to go on for as long as it took to to clean the bathroom--it gets a
thorough cleaning daily.
The chickens decided they weren't going to lay eggs outside. Thry
began to come to the door one by one--when we'd open the door,
in they'd strut, Go directly to the bathroom--stand directly in front
o the sink vanity and look up at us, as if to say, "Pick me up, please>"
Of course, we always picked them up, How could anyone say to
such beseeching looks?
I hope they don't expect such treatment come Spring.
Note--These are written in chronological order--but the actual date
they were written was today.
Monday, February 3, 2014
Spa Day for the "Girls"
The last two days have difficult. I really miss Sweetie. Her attitude was
always pleasant and easy. Of course, that won her no favors with the
larger chicks. She was picked on by the largest birds. Pecking order is
real in the chicken world. She was the smallest; now Blondie is the smallest.
But Blondie doesn't tolerate that behavior. You think she's going to,
but, no, not Blondie. When she is done, she strikes hard and fast--and sends the
others running, hiding. But she is protective of the weaker. Ginger hung out
with her at my insistence. Ginger was picked on and pecked until I paired
two together. I watched Blondie literally stared Henny Penny down one
night as she was wanting to go after Ginger. That's all she did--that stare
meant business. Slowly Ginger's attitude changed and now she's confident
and sassy--she even steals food from Henny Penny. And she is fiercely
loyal to Blondie.
I decided to give the girls a "spa day" and it was a hoot to watch. I ran warm
water in their sink. put a tiny bit of blue Dawn in it, and some extra virgin
olive oil in it. The first one was Henny Penny, she protested followed by
a melting and a cooing sound that sounded like, "I didn't know life could be
any sweeter." They all reacted the same way. It was sweet and touching.
After the spa part of the treatment, I carefully put olive oil on their combs. Then
I sat them down carefully. They looked so satisfied so happy. And I knew
Sweetie would have liked this. She had her "spa" day when she hurt her foot.
So had undivided attention all day, and she ate it up! She may be gone but
not forgotten.
All for today
Kate Thorn
always pleasant and easy. Of course, that won her no favors with the
larger chicks. She was picked on by the largest birds. Pecking order is
real in the chicken world. She was the smallest; now Blondie is the smallest.
But Blondie doesn't tolerate that behavior. You think she's going to,
but, no, not Blondie. When she is done, she strikes hard and fast--and sends the
others running, hiding. But she is protective of the weaker. Ginger hung out
with her at my insistence. Ginger was picked on and pecked until I paired
two together. I watched Blondie literally stared Henny Penny down one
night as she was wanting to go after Ginger. That's all she did--that stare
meant business. Slowly Ginger's attitude changed and now she's confident
and sassy--she even steals food from Henny Penny. And she is fiercely
loyal to Blondie.
I decided to give the girls a "spa day" and it was a hoot to watch. I ran warm
water in their sink. put a tiny bit of blue Dawn in it, and some extra virgin
olive oil in it. The first one was Henny Penny, she protested followed by
a melting and a cooing sound that sounded like, "I didn't know life could be
any sweeter." They all reacted the same way. It was sweet and touching.
After the spa part of the treatment, I carefully put olive oil on their combs. Then
I sat them down carefully. They looked so satisfied so happy. And I knew
Sweetie would have liked this. She had her "spa" day when she hurt her foot.
So had undivided attention all day, and she ate it up! She may be gone but
not forgotten.
All for today
Kate Thorn
Friday, January 31, 2014
Two Tragedies
About 6 days ago, all the "girls" (chickens) were foraging in the back yard.
One half hour later, four of them were missing. We began to look for them
immediately. We called come for them--and a quarter mile away --
here comes Blondie, She and Sweetie, both could run equally fast.
Following her were three more chickens, which meant one was still missing.
She stopped and checked the highway, then led them safely across and down
the driveway of our neighbor's , slidingand cut through the thick brush in order
to keep the others safely away from highway.
We kept calling for Sweetie, and the rest of the chickens joined in. There
was no sign of Sweetie, but she came in late one other night, so I just kept
calling. Midnight was the last time I went out to call I woke up at 0600
and went out to look again, She wasn't there. I couldn't accept it. I kept
seeing here barreling down the hill, hesitating for only 3 seconds before flying
across the highway, sliding sideways into drieway--just like race car driver
she wanted to be. The only thing good--she never was mistreated in any way.
When she bruised her foot, she got a "spa" treatment for her feet--and she
was only let outside for an hour. She came back in willingly and laid down
willingly. She slept most of the day. The next day she went outside with
her sisters--no longer limping. She was petted and loved. And I still miss
her every day.
I just went to check the sisters--they were in a huddle of sleep, all cuddled
together, except for Blondie. She was laying in front of the others,
pointing outward, as if to guard them.
The second tragedy was the death of Cafe Blue member--I've known
him ince 1998. When I lived near Daytona in 2001, we would go to Daytona
to buy fresh veggies from their huge--kind of like a flea market, but there
was a lot veggies sold there. After that, we would go to a used bookstore.
Both of us are into books. It was there in Daytona that I found a used copy
of one his poetry books. Through his poetry, I felt that we had communicated
in a deeper way than in the Cafe. He will be missed. But he had a very good
life. He was devoted to his wife He was 88 when he passed to the other
side.
So I am dealing with two losses. I couldn't write about them before now.
Appreciate the moments you have, They are preious and dear.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
One half hour later, four of them were missing. We began to look for them
immediately. We called come for them--and a quarter mile away --
here comes Blondie, She and Sweetie, both could run equally fast.
Following her were three more chickens, which meant one was still missing.
She stopped and checked the highway, then led them safely across and down
the driveway of our neighbor's , slidingand cut through the thick brush in order
to keep the others safely away from highway.
We kept calling for Sweetie, and the rest of the chickens joined in. There
was no sign of Sweetie, but she came in late one other night, so I just kept
calling. Midnight was the last time I went out to call I woke up at 0600
and went out to look again, She wasn't there. I couldn't accept it. I kept
seeing here barreling down the hill, hesitating for only 3 seconds before flying
across the highway, sliding sideways into drieway--just like race car driver
she wanted to be. The only thing good--she never was mistreated in any way.
When she bruised her foot, she got a "spa" treatment for her feet--and she
was only let outside for an hour. She came back in willingly and laid down
willingly. She slept most of the day. The next day she went outside with
her sisters--no longer limping. She was petted and loved. And I still miss
her every day.
I just went to check the sisters--they were in a huddle of sleep, all cuddled
together, except for Blondie. She was laying in front of the others,
pointing outward, as if to guard them.
The second tragedy was the death of Cafe Blue member--I've known
him ince 1998. When I lived near Daytona in 2001, we would go to Daytona
to buy fresh veggies from their huge--kind of like a flea market, but there
was a lot veggies sold there. After that, we would go to a used bookstore.
Both of us are into books. It was there in Daytona that I found a used copy
of one his poetry books. Through his poetry, I felt that we had communicated
in a deeper way than in the Cafe. He will be missed. But he had a very good
life. He was devoted to his wife He was 88 when he passed to the other
side.
So I am dealing with two losses. I couldn't write about them before now.
Appreciate the moments you have, They are preious and dear.
All for now.
Kate Thorn
Friday, January 3, 2014
Summer Squash (from Whole Foods)
The delicate flavor, soft shell and creamy white flesh of summer squash is a perfect addition to any summer meal. While especially plentiful in the U.S. marketplace during the summer months, summer squash is actually available through the year. Summer squashes, members of the Cucurbitaceae family and relatives of both the melon and the cucumber, come in many different varieties. While each variety may have a distinct shape, color, size and flavor, all varieties share some common characteristics. Regardless of variety, all parts of summer squash are edible, including the flesh, seeds and skin. Some varieties of squash also produce edible flowers. Unlike winter squash, summer squash are more fragile and cannot be stored for long periods of time unless frozen. For Native Americans, squashes were considered as one of the "three sisters" along with corn (maize) and beans.
What's New and Beneficial about Summer Squash
- Although summer squash has long been recognized as an important food source of carotenoids, only recently have research studies documented just how fantastic summer squash can be when it comes to these key antioxidants. For some groups of study participants, summer squash turns out to be the primary food source of alpha-carotene and beta-carotene in the entire diet! For lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-cryptoxanthin (three other health-supportive carotenoids) summer squash also comes out among the top three food sources in several studies.
- When we think about food and antioxidants, what first comes to mind might be fresh fruit and vitamin C, or bright orange carrots and beta-carotene. Yet several recent studies have underscored the unique contribution made by summer squash to our antioxidant requirements. While not as rich in some of the more widely-publicized antioxidants like beta-carotene, summer squash is a very strong source of other key antioxidant nutrients, including the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. Since the skin of this food is particularly antioxidant-rich, it's worth leaving the skin intact and purchasing organic summer squash to help avoid potential unwanted contaminants.
- If you usually microwave or boil your summer squash, you'll be interested to know this: steaming is much better than either of these two methods in terms of nutrient retention. New evidence shows that summer squash can retain a large amount of its antioxidant activity after steaming. Using zucchini as their summer squash, researchers found that steaming was a better way to preserve zucchini's antioxidant activity than boiling or microwaving. Interestingly, even previously frozen zucchini held on to its antioxidant activity fairly well after steaming. These findings are great news for anyone enjoys steamed vegetables and who sometimes needs to freeze surplus vegetables for later use.
- We tend to think about squashes, both summer and winter, as starchy vegetables. This thinking is correct, since about 85-90% of the total calories in squashes (as a group) come from carbohydrate, and about half of this carbohydrate is starch-like in composition and composed of polysaccharides. But we also tend to think about polysaccharides as stagnant storage forms for starch that cannot do much for us in terms of unique health benefits. Here our thinking is way off target! Recent research has shown that the polysaccharides in summer squash include an unusual amount of pectin—a specially structured polysaccharide that often include special chains of D-galacturonic acid called homogalacturonan. It's this unique polysaccharide composition in summer squash that is being linked in repeated animal studies to protection against diabetes and better regulation of insulin. We expect to see future studies on humans confirming these same types of benefits from consumption of summer squash.
Nutrients in
Summer Squash
1.00 cup raw (113.00 grams)
Summer Squash
1.00 cup raw (113.00 grams)
Nutrient%Daily Value
vitamin C32%
molybdenum18%
vitamin B612.5%
manganese10%
vitamin B29.4%
potassium8.4%
folate8.1%
fiber4.9%
magnesium4.8%
vitamin A4.5%
phosphorus4.2%
vitamin K4.2%
vitamin B13.3%
tryptophan3.1%
copper3%
vitamin B32.7%
protein2.7%
omega-3 fats2.5%
Calories (18)1%
This chart graphically details the %DV that a serving of Squash, summer provides for each of the nutrients of which it is a good, very good, or excellent source according to our Food Rating System. Additional information about the amount of these nutrients provided by Squash, summer can be found in the Food Rating System Chart. A link that takes you to the In-Depth Nutritional Profile for Squash, summer, featuring information over 80 nutrients, can be found under the Food Rating System Chart.
- Health Benefits
- Description
- History
- How to Select and Store
- Tips for Preparing and Cooking
- How to Enjoy
- Individual Concerns
- Nutritional Profile
- References
Health Benefits
As a general rule, summer squash has not been as thoroughly studied from a health benefit standpoint as many of the other World's Healthiest Foods. Much of the research evidence specific to summer squash and its health benefits comes from animal versus human studies, and these research studies often look at squash as an overall food group rather than examining specific benefits from summer (versus winter) squash. However, in spite of these research limitations, there are still well-documented health benefits that are offered to us by summer squash!Antioxidant Benefits
No category of health benefits from summer squash is better researched than the category of antioxidant benefits. As an excellent source of manganese and vitamin C as well as a good source of vitamin A (through its concentration of carotenoid phytonutrients), summer squash provides us with a great combination of conventional antioxidant nutrients. But it also contains an unusual amount of other antioxidant nutrients, including the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants are especially helpful in antioxidant protection of the eye, including protection against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. While we often think first about carrots as providing us with antioxidant-related eye health benefits, we also need to start including summer squash in our list of antioxidant-rich foods that can provide us with health benefits in this area.If properly handled and prepared, summer squash also provides us with special antioxidant advantages in terms of its antioxidant stability. Recent research has confirmed strong retention of antioxidant activity in summer squash after steaming. Research has also confirmed excellent retention of antioxidant activity in summer squash after freezing. These findings mean that the antioxidant benefits of summer squash are available to us under a wide variety of circumstances. We have the option of enjoying raw summer squash, briefly steamed summer squash, and previously frozen summer squash while still coming away with well-documented antioxidant health benefits.
To obtain full antioxidant benefits from summer squash, we need to eat not only the flesh, but also the skin and the seeds. Many valuable antioxidant nutrients are found in those portions of the food, and studies document their importance in the overall antioxidant activity of summer squash. Purchasing organic summer squash is your best way to lower risk of potentially unwanted contaminants (like pesticides) on the skin of this vegetable. While purchasing organic, it's still worthwhile to use a natural bristle brush and gently cleanse the skin of the summer squash under cold running water.
Blood Sugar Benefits
The list of nutrients in summer squash related to healthy blood sugar regulation is a long one. Metabolism of sugar in the body requires ample presence of many B-complex vitamins, and most of these B-complex vitamins are found in valuable amounts in summer squash. Included here are the B-vitamins folate, B6, B1, B2, B3, and choline. Also important in blood sugar metabolism are the minerals zinc and magnesium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, and all of these nutrients are provided by summer squash.A mainstay of dietary protection from type 2 diabetes—as well as a key step in food support of diabetes problems—is optimal intake of fiber. Summer squash not only provides a very good amount of dietary fiber at 2.5 grams per cup, but it also provides polysaccharide fibers like pectin that have special benefits for blood sugar regulation. The pectin polysaccharides in summer squash often include chains of D-galacturonic acid called homogalacturonan. An increasing number of animal studies now show that these components in summer squash help keep insulin metabolism and blood sugar levels in balance, and protect against the onset of type 2 diabetes.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
While lacking extensive research documentation, there are several other areas of health benefits from summer squash that are definitely worth noting and that may eventually have strong scientific back-up. The first of these areas involves inflammation-related conditions. The presence of omega-3 fats in the seeds of summer squash, the presence of anti-inflammatory carotenoids like lutein, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene, and the presence of anti-inflammatory polysaccharides like homogalacturonan make this vegetable a natural choice for protection against unwanted inflammation. Several preliminary animal studies show potential anti-inflammatory protection from summer squash for the cardiovascular system and also for the GI tract. (Two special areas of digestive tract interest involve anti-inflammatory protection against gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer.) Insofar as chronic, unwanted inflammation is also a risk factor for development of type 2 diabetes, the anti-inflammatory benefits of summer squash may play an important role in its protection against type 2 diabetes as well.Antimicrobial Protection
The seeds of summer squash and oils extracted from its seeds have a long history of use in botanical and folk medicine in two areas. The first area involves the anti-microbial properties of summer squash seeds, and especially their anti-parasitic properties. Interestingly, dried summer squash seeds are still used in some parts of the world for treatment of intestinal tapeworms or other intestinal parasites. We have not seen peer-reviewed studies focusing on the antimicrobial benefits of summer squash seeds, but from our perspective, these benefits are unlikely to come from a food approach to summer squash that includes this vegetable in modest amounts as part of a healthy, whole foods diet. Far more likely these benefits will come from a medicinal approach to summer squash that involves consumption of its dried seeds in non-food amounts or extract of oils from those seeds.Prostate Health Support
The second area of folk medicine use involves non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. Seeds of summer squash (and oils from those seeds) have traditionally been used to help lower frequency of urination that is commonly experienced in men diagnosed with BPH. Like the area of anti-microbial benefits, we have not seen peer-reviewed studies focusing on summer squash seeds and their potential benefits in lessening frequency of urination in BPH. But from our perspective, these benefits are also unlikely to come from a food approach to summer squash that includes this vegetable in modest amounts as part of a healthy, whole foods diet. Far more likely these benefits will come from a medicinal approach to summer squash that involves consumption of its dried seeds in non-food amounts or from seed oil extracts.Anti-Cancer Benefits
The combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients in summer squash is a very logical nutrient combination for providing anti-cancer benefits. The development of many cancer types depends on chronic, unwanted oxidative stress that can occur along with poor intake of antioxidant nutrients, and chronic, unwanted inflammation that can occur along with lack of anti-inflammatory nutrients. While we eventually expect to see well-documented anti-cancer benefits from summer squash in large-scale human studies, the anti-cancer research on summer squash is still in a preliminary stage.Description
Summer squashes belong to the Cucurbitaceae family of plants and are relatives of winter squashes (including pumpkins), melons (including watermelon), and even cucumbers. But summer squashes are typically much more delicate than their fellow Cucurbitaceae, and are more often eaten fresh and shortly after harvest. The list presented below will give you more details about the Cucurbitaceae food family and shows how exactly how summer squashes fit in.- Cucurbita Genus
- winter squashes
- summer squashes
- Cucumis Genus
- cucumbers
- casaba melons
- Crenshaw melons
- honeydew melons
- muskmelon
- Citrullus Genus
- watermelons
- bitter apple
- Zucchini, whose skin can be yellow in color but is much more often found in grocery stores showcasing its dark green skin. (The dark green skin of zucchini may also be naturally striped or speckled.) Zucchini is one of the summer squash types that grow on flowering plants with edible flowers. Black beauty, cocozelle, golden, courgette, and dark green are some of the popular varieties of zucchini.
- Crookneck and straightneck squashes, usually yellow in color. While sometimes available with light green skins, bright yellow crookneck and straightneck squashes are the varieties that we most commonly associate with summer squash. (We've become especially accustomed to seeing small, bulb-shaped, bright yellow crookneck squashes in the United States.) Crookneck and straightneck summer squashes can be very similar in appearance, since crookneck varieties may have a very minimally curved neck that is almost swan-like in appearance. Golden summer, yellow crookneck, and early straightneck are some popular varieties of crookneck and straightneck squashes. Cushaw squashes are special varieties of crookneck squashes that are much larger than other crooknecks, even though they are easily recognized by their similar bulb-like shape. Cushaws take about twice as long to grow as other crooknecks, and are often used in baking (for example, in pies).
- Scallop squashes, also called pattypan squashes. These summer squashes are typically saucer-shaped and come in a wide variety of colors from very pale yellow to golden yellow to medium green. Scallop squashes sometimes have a slightly sweeter flesh than other summer squashes. Popular varieties include green tint scallop, scallop early white bush, scallop yellow bush, and sunburst. In some countries, you'll also hear the words "scallopini" or "button squash" used to describe the scallop squashes.
Cucurbita Genus and Species of Foods (including Summer Squash varieties)
- Cucurbita pepo (variety melopepo)
- zucchini (summer variety)
- yellow crookneck squash (summer variety)
- scallop squash (summer variety)
- Cucurbita pepo (variety pepo)
- acorn squash (winter variety)
- delicata squash (winter variety)
- spaghetti squash (winter variety)
- Cucurbita maxima
- buttercup squash (winter variety)
- Hubbard squash (winter variety)
- banana squash (winter variety)
- Boston Marrow squash (winter variety)
- Turkish turban (winter variety)
- Cucurbita moschata
- butternut squash (winter variety)
- winter crookneck squash
- Cucurbita argyosperma*
- cushaw squash (summer variety)
History
Amazingly, scientists have found squash seeds (from the genus-species Cucurbita pepo, which includes summer squash) preserved in Mexican caves for more than 10,000 years! It was that long ago when domestication of summer squash originated in Mexico and Central America. Cultivation of squashes (including summer squash) quickly became popular in North, Central, and South America, and Native Americans often referred to squashes as one of the "three sisters" alongside of corn (maize) and beans. Squashes were one of the North American foods that Columbus brought back to Spain from North America, and Portuguese and Spanish explorers introduced squashes to many parts of the world.Commercial production of squash (including summer squash) now takes place on a worldwide basis, and the largest producers of squash including the United States, China, India, and Russia. The Pacific Islands region—including Papua New Guinea, Tonga, French Polynesia, Fiji, Hawaii, and New Zealand—is also an important area for squash production. Total global production of squash measures more than 5 billion metric tons, with over 500,000 acres planted. Florida, California, Georgia and New York are the top squash-growing states in the U.S., producing more than 650 million pounds of squash. The U.S. is also the world's largest importer of squash, importing nearly 300,000 metric tons per year. (Ninety-five percent of U.S. imported squash comes from Mexico.)
How to Select and Store
When purchasing summer squash, look for ones that are heavy for their size and have shiny, unblemished rinds. Additionally, the rinds should not be very hard since this indicates that the squash are over-mature and will have hard seeds and stringy flesh. Purchase summer squash that are of average size since those that are overly large may be fibrous, while those that are overly small may be inferior in flavor.Summer squash is very fragile and should be handled with care as small punctures will lead to decay. It should be stored unwashed in an air-tight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for about seven days.
While it can be frozen, this will make the flesh much softer. We don't recommend freezing as a routine storage method. Yet, it is a great process to turn to if you have amounts larger than you will be able to consume (for example, if you grow summer squash in your garden and have a bounty of it). The fact is that the freezing of summer squash can be an excellent storage process in terms of nourishment. A recent research study has shown excellent retention of the antioxidant activity in frozen summer squash.
Begin by slicing your summer squash and steaming for three minutes. Steaming is prefereable to the more traditional boiling method as it minimizes water contact and therefore minimizes nutrient loss. Remove squash from steamer and let cool thoroughly before placing in freezer bags and storing in the freezer.
Tips for Preparing and Cooking
Tips for Preparing Summer Squash
Wash summer squash under cool running water and then cut off both ends. You can then proceed to cut it into the desired size and shape for the particular recipe.The Healthiest Way of Cooking Summer Squash
Of all of the cooking methods we tried when cooking summer squash, our favorite is Healthy Saute. We think that it provides the greatest flavor and is also a method that allows for concentrated nutrient retention.To Healthy Saute summer squash, heat 3 TBS of broth (vegetable or chicken) or water in a stainless steel skillet. Once bubbles begin to form add sliced squash, cover, and Healthy Saute for 3 minutes (1-1/2 minutes on one side, and then 1-1/2 minutes on the other side) on medium heat. Transfer to a bowl and toss with our Mediterranean Dressing. (See our 3-Minute Healthy Sauteed Summer Squash recipe for details on how to prepare this dish.)
How to Enjoy
A Few Quick Serving Ideas
- Sprinkle grated zucchini or other summer squash on top of salads and sandwiches.
- Enjoy an easy to make ratatouille by healthy sautéing summer squash, onions, bell peppers, eggplant and tomatoes and then simmering the mixture in tomato sauce. Season to taste.
- Serve raw summer squash with your favorite dips.
WHFoods Recipes That Feature Summer Squash
- Any Time Frittata
- Italian Tofu Frittata
- Zesty Mexican Soup
- Southwestern Cod Saute
- Primavera Verde
- 5-Minute Healthy Sauteed Summer Squash
- Calabacitas (Mexican-flavored vegetable side dish)
- Steamed Vegetable Medley
- Tahini and Crudites Appetizer
Individual Concerns
Summer squash is among a small number of foods that contain measurable amounts of oxalates, naturally-occurring substances found in plants, animals, and human beings. When oxalates become too concentrated in body fluids, they can crystallize and cause health problems. For this reason, individuals with already existing and untreated kidney or gallbladder problems may want to avoid eating summer squash. Laboratory studies have shown that oxalates may also interfere with absorption of calcium from the body. Yet, in every peer-reviewed research study we've seen, the ability of oxalates to lower calcium absorption is relatively small and definitely does not outweigh the ability of oxalate-containing foods to contribute calcium to the meal plan. If your digestive tract is healthy, and you do a good job of chewing and relaxing while you enjoy your meals, you will get significant benefits—including absorption of calcium—from calcium-rich foods plant foods that also contain oxalic acid. Ordinarily, a healthcare practitioner. For more on this subject, please see "Can you tell me what oxalates are and in which foods they can be found?"Summer Squash and Pesticide Residues
According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) in their 2013 report, Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, conventionally grown summer squash is contaminated with concentrations of organophosphate insecticides, which are considered to be highly toxic to the nervous system. While they were not among the 12 varieties of produce most concentrated in overall pesticide residues (and therefore not part of the EWG's traditional "Dirty Dozen"), the EWG felt that this organophosphate concentration was relevant enough to bring attention to summer squash. They actually renamed their produce category of concern from "Dirty Dozen" to "Dirty Dozen Plus" with summer squash (as well as leafy greens such as kale and collard greens) being the "Plus" conventionally grown produce. Therefore, individuals wanting to avoid pesticide-associated health risks may want to avoid consumption of summer squash unless it is grown organically.Nutritional Profile
While not often considered as a premiere food source of antioxidants, summer squash can provide you with unique amounts of antioxidant nutrients, including the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. While summer squash contains very little overall fat (only 1/2 gram per cup), the fat in summer squash (mostly stored in its edible seeds) is unique in composition and includes omega-3s (in the form of alpha-linolenic acid), monounsaturates (in the form of oleic acid), and also medium chain fats (in the form of lauric and myristic acids). Summer squash is an excellent source of antioxidant-promoting vitamin C; enzyme-catalyzing manganese and molybdenum; and nerve-healthy vitamin B6. It is also a very good source of heart-healthy potassium, folate, and vitamin B2. In addition, summer squash is a good source of digestion-promoting dietary fiber; bone-supportive magnesium, vitamin K and copper; immune-supportive vitamin A; energy-producing phosphorus and niacin; anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids; and muscle-building protein.For an in-depth nutritional profile click here: Summer squash.
In-Depth Nutritional Profile
In addition to the nutrients highlighted in our ratings chart, an in-depth nutritional profile for Squash, summer is also available. This profile includes information on a full array of nutrients, including carbohydrates, sugar, soluble and insoluble fiber, sodium, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids and more.Introduction to Food Rating System Chart
In order to better help you identify foods that feature a high concentration of nutrients for the calories they contain, we created a Food Rating System. This system allows us to highlight the foods that are especially rich in particular nutrients. The following chart shows the nutrients for which this food is either an excellent, very good, or good source (below the chart you will find a table that explains these qualifications). If a nutrient is not listed in the chart, it does not necessarily mean that the food doesn't contain it. It simply means that the nutrient is not provided in a sufficient amount or concentration to meet our rating criteria. (To view this food's in-depth nutritional profile that includes values for dozens of nutrients - not just the ones rated as excellent, very good, or good - please use the link below the chart.) To read this chart accurately, you'll need to glance up in the top left corner where you will find the name of the food and the serving size we used to calculate the food's nutrient composition. This serving size will tell you how much of the food you need to eat to obtain the amount of nutrients found in the chart. Now, returning to the chart itself, you can look next to the nutrient name in order to find the nutrient amount it offers, the percent Daily Value (DV%) that this amount represents, the nutrient density that we calculated for this food and nutrient, and the rating we established in our rating system. For most of our nutrient ratings, we adopted the government standards for food labeling that are found in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's "Reference Values for Nutrition Labeling." Read more background information and details of our rating system.| Summer Squash 1.00 cup raw 113.00 grams 18.08 calories | ||||
| Nutrient | Amount | DV (%) | Nutrient Density | World's Healthiest Foods Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vitamin C | 19.21 mg | 32.0 | 31.9 | excellent |
| molybdenum | 13.56 mcg | 18.1 | 18.0 | excellent |
| vitamin B6 | 0.25 mg | 12.5 | 12.4 | excellent |
| manganese | 0.20 mg | 10.0 | 10.0 | excellent |
| vitamin B2 | 0.16 mg | 9.4 | 9.4 | very good |
| potassium | 296.06 mg | 8.5 | 8.4 | very good |
| folate | 32.77 mcg | 8.2 | 8.2 | very good |
| fiber | 1.24 g | 5.0 | 4.9 | good |
| magnesium | 19.21 mg | 4.8 | 4.8 | good |
| vitamin A | 226.00 IU | 4.5 | 4.5 | good |
| phosphorus | 42.94 mg | 4.3 | 4.3 | good |
| vitamin K | 3.39 mcg | 4.2 | 4.2 | good |
| vitamin B1 | 0.05 mg | 3.3 | 3.3 | good |
| tryptophan | 0.01 g | 3.1 | 3.1 | good |
| copper | 0.06 mg | 3.0 | 3.0 | good |
| vitamin B3 | 0.55 mg | 2.8 | 2.7 | good |
| protein | 1.37 g | 2.7 | 2.7 | good |
| omega-3 fats | 0.06 g | 2.5 | 2.5 | good |
| World's Healthiest Foods Rating | Rule |
|---|---|
| excellent | DV>=75% OR Density>=7.6 AND DV>=10% |
| very good | DV>=50% OR Density>=3.4 AND DV>=5% |
| good | DV>=25% OR Density>=1.5 AND DV>=2.5% |
References
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- Bannayan M, Rezaei EE, and Alizadeh A. Climatic Suitability of Growing Summer Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) as a Medicinal Plant in Iran. Not Sci Biol 2011; 3(2):39-46. 2011.
- Choi H, Eo H, Park K et al. A water-soluble extract from Cucurbita moschata shows anti-obesity effects by controlling lipid metabolism in a high fat diet-induced obesity mouse model. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2007 Aug 3;359(3):419-25. Epub 2007 May 25. Erratum in: Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2008 Feb 1;366(1):269. 2007.
- Danesi F and Bordoni A. Effect of home freezing and Italian style of cooking on antioxidant activity of edible vegetables. J Food Sci. 2008 Aug;73(6):H109-12. 2008.
- Dixit Y and Kar A. Protective role of three vegetable peels in alloxan induced diabetes mellitus in male mice. Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2010 Sep;65(3):284-9. 2010.
- Jayaprakasam B, Seeram NP and Nair MG. Anticancer and antiinflammatory activities of cucurbitacins from Cucurbita andreana. Cancer Lett. 2003 Jan 10;189(1):11-16. 2003.
- Li FS, Xu J, Dou DQ et al. Structures of new phenolic glycosides from the seeds of Cucurbita moschata. Nat Prod Commun. 2009 Apr;4(4):511-2. 2009.
- Nara K, Yamaguchi A, Maeda N et al. Antioxidative activity of water soluble polysaccharide in pumpkin fruits (Cucurbita maxima Duchesne). Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2009 Jun;73(6):1416-8. Epub 2009 Jun 7. 2009.
- Nosálová G, Prisenznáková L, Kostálová Z et al. Suppressive effect of pectic polysaccharides from Cucurbita pepo L. var. Styriaca on citric acid-induced cough reflex in guinea pigs. Fitoterapia. 2010 Nov 7. [Epub ahead of print]. 2010.
- Priyadarshani AM and Chandrika UG. Content and in-vitro accessibility of pro-vitamin A carotenoids from Sri Lankan cooked non-leafy vegetables and their estimated contribution to vitamin A requirement. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2007 Dec;58(8):659-667. 2007.
- Sarkar S and Buha D. Effect of ripe fruit pulp extract of Cucurbita pepo Linn. in aspirin induced gastric and duodenal ulcer in rats. Indian J Exp Biol. 2008 Sep;46(9):639-45. 2008.
- Smith BD. The initial domestication of cucurbita pepo in the Americas 10,000 years ago. Science. Washington: May 9, 1997. Vol. 276, Iss. 5314; p. 932-934. 1997.
- Wang DC, Pan HY, Deng XM et al. Cucurbitane and hexanorcucurbitane glycosides from the fruits of Cucurbita pepo cv dayangua. J Asian Nat Prod Res. 2007 Sep-Dec;9(6-8):525-9. 2007.
- Xia T and Wang Q. D-chiro-inositol found in Cucurbita ficifolia (Cucurbitaceae) fruit extracts plays the hypoglycaemic role in streptozocin-diabetic rats. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2006 Nov;58(11):1527-32. 2006.
- Younis YM, Ghirmay S, and al-Shihry SS. African Cucurbita pepo L.: properties of seed and variability in fatty acid composition of seed oil. Phytochemistry. 2000 May;54(1):71-5. 2000.
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