Operation Break-My-Jaw

Happy New Year 2014!!!!

2014-01-01T10:25:00.004-05:00

2013 has left the building!! Here is to a happy, healthy and exciting new year for my family and yours !

A quick recap of the year 2013... Doug and I got married in October in our college town where we met. Family from all over attended the celebration and it was a fun weekend of hanging out with everyone!

We then headed to Florida for a honeymoon week of fun in the sun.

We even got to meet up with some family on Doug's side who carted us around and showed us the sights :)

We were fortunate to spend New Years Eve with good friends and family, eating Chinese food and playing board games. :)

My maid of honor, left, and good friend on the right ringing in the new year with us.

Hope your night was excellent, too and year 2014 super!

For those of you still following the jaw portion of this blog, everything is a-okay!
I do hope I don't have to have the screws that are imbedded in my jaws ever removed...but as of now everything is great.

New Years Resolutions

2013 was a great year that included getting married as well as being fortunate to have a few professional opportunities including more writing opportunities, as well as a much needed full time job in a tough economy.

For 2014 I have set goals but no resolutions. A wise friend on Facebook wrote "I'm not making any resolutions this year other than to enjoy it. Putting pressure on 2014 right from the start isn't the way to welcome it."

I found this wise and have adopted this attitude this year.

HAVE FUN in 2014!! I plan to tap into my creative side more. Do more reading, play more piano, listen to music more and find time to write more on my blogs.

Be adventurous and spontaneous, I want to go ice skating, tubing, this year, and Doug and I plan to hit the slopes and do some skiing, too!

I’m 25 so I want to LIVE MY LIFE in 2014. We are looking to buy a condo this year after spending three years in our cozy apartment, we hope to find a new place to call home. If we buy a condo, awesome for us. Which we probably will. If we don’t, we have next year for that :)

If you made resolutions this year, what are they?? Hope all your goals and dreams come true this year!!

Spring 2013

2013-05-13T21:07:00.002-04:00

Hello, hello!

Just checking in with my blog for a quick update. Life is flying by as my jaw progressively improves. This year brings about many things for us. Doug and I are getting married in October and are busy with wedding preparations. We're also looking into buying our first home after the wedding. And planning our honeymoon, maintaining jobs, finding a new one (me), and trying to find a healthy balance of work, fun and ways to keep our sanity. We are now realizing that we can't have everything we want right at this moment and that things take time to achieve. Our fortune cookies gave us much needed advice.

True to life fortune cookie!

I will be 25 this year!!!! The only good thing about this is that I do not look like I am 25. The bad part of this statement is that as a substitute teacher, to the kids I don't look much older than them. I remind them that my age is not relevant to their classwork and that I really do not care how old they are so I suggest they try not to focus on guessing my correct age.

Time really does fly by. I remember being 13 and impatient to turn 14 so my brother would stop calling me a tween. To him, tweenhood ended at age 14 and thus that was the age I was going for. I could get there and stay that age forever. And now I am........almost 25. My twenties have by far gone the fastest. Since graduating from college in 2010 the time has flown by and I can't slow it down for even a minute.

Enjoying spring!! (Taken in 2012)

Enjoy spring everyone! Seasons change and years come and go so make memories that last forever :-)

Happy New Year 2013!

2013-01-09T20:47:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year! My last post was back in August 2012. Six months ago many changes had taken place for us, and now yet again more things are changing and yet some old things are returning. For the new year I'll start off by posting some pictures of my delectable creations and see how long into the new year I'll keep at it :) For tonight's dinner I made Chicken Tenders with Pineapple Sauce which is a variation of momma's famous Hawaiian Chicken. I accompanied the meal with Homemade Creamed Corn and a light Avocado, Tomato, Chick Pea Salad.

Chicken tenders in a pineapple sauce with chunks of pineapple.

Homemade creamed corn with Ritz cracker topping.

Avocado, tomato and chick pea salad.

My #1 customer was very happy with dinner tonight!

In jaw-news, my shoulder and neck pain has recently been confronted and a series of exercises given to me by my physical therapists. These exercises have helped tremendously and just within the past few days have I begun to really notice some great differences in regards to my range of motion in my shoulder. About a month ago I went in for an MRI as was advised by my orthopedic doctor who which I have a follow-up appointment with tomorrow morning, to get a scope on the knob sticking out of my collar bone and figure out what was causing it/wrong.

The results showed nothing severely wrong, and only a mild indicator of fluid around that joint in my collar bone and a slight sign of arthritis. He suggested a cortisone shot, and physical therapy. I opted for the second option and chose to hold off if at all possible on the first. My knob was extremely sensitive at this point and previous chiropractic measures had proven unsuccessful. Now, I have had great success with physical therapy alone, yet my knob remains not as sore but still very visible. We shall see. At the PT they work with my right arm and shoulder to strengthen it through means of massage and other techniques, with hopes to reduce/release this fluid in my joint. Stay tuned for more recipes and updates!

Happy New Year!

1 Year Jaw Surgery Anniversary

2012-08-18T11:03:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, August 17, 2012, marked my one year anniversary of my jaw surgery. One year ago, both jaws were cut and moved into new positions; top jaw back, bottom jaw forward. Since then, I've healed up, my numbness is gone, wounds have healed, gotten a new job, moved to our first apartment, gotten engaged, and started my adult life at age 24. All in 2012, baby!

Celebration dinner after I said yes!

The newly engaged :-)

If you're having your jaw broken soon, or any surgery, good luck!!!!!!!!

Chicken Noodle Soup and Mashed Cauliflower

2012-04-24T19:45:00.003-04:00

In efforts to reduce my intake of carbs, I've opted to temporarily eliminate carbohydrates from my diet. Tonight's dinner consisted of chicken noodle soup and mashed cauliflower and both were delicious.

Chicken, carrots, celery, cabbage, onions and semolina pasta.

Cauliflower was boiled until very soft, and mixed together with a little butter, cheese and a good helping of light cream and garlic. Yum!

Family Vacation to Las Vegas

2012-04-16T22:15:00.001-04:00

http://emilybee.hubpages.com/hub/Vacation-in-Vegas

Yellow Cake and Chocolate Frosting Recipe

2012-04-16T22:14:00.002-04:00

http://emilybee.hubpages.com/hub/Yellow-Cake-for-Easter-or-Other-Occasion

Happy Easter!

2012-04-08T10:38:00.000-04:00

The first yellow cake ever made for enjoyment on Easter sunday. Topped with chocolate buttercream frosting. This was a trial run for my grandmother's 90th birthday cake next week !

Doug's Easter basket. The Easter bunny and I share the same initials ;)

20 Liquid Recipes

2012-03-24T23:38:00.000-04:00

Hello! Check out my Hubpage account where I post articles called hubs on various topics. Most recently, I published my hub titled Liquid Recipes for Weight Loss or Post-Surgery Diet.

Teacup Piggies are Trendy and Cute!

2012-03-12T20:28:00.002-04:00

http://emilybee.hubpages.com/hub/I-Want-a-Little-Tiny-Teacup-Piggy

Impatient Much? Chill Out!

2012-03-12T20:27:00.001-04:00

http://emilybee.hubpages.com/hub/Impatient-Much-Chill-Out

Bargadacious Sketchers Sneakers

2012-02-19T15:36:00.000-05:00

Sketchers Shape-Ups retail value is $60 on Amazon, originally $25 at Tjmaxx, and this week final clearanced for $10. Bargain! The pink color (additional pink laces included) gives the sneaks a little something extra and the Shape-Up design is made to simulate walking in soft sand.

Arched in the sole, proper posture when walking is to rock from heel to toe. These shoes are designed for a low-intensity workout and all-day wear. They are extremely comfortable and are designed to help tone up the buttocks, calves, abdomen, and back.

Sketchers Shape-Ups XF (Extended Fitness) sneakers offer extreme daily comfort, style and many health benefits such as improved posture and circulation, reduced joint stress, and tighter adnominals, buttocks and thighs. My advice is to wear these sneaks as often as possible to add to your general workout routine.

JCPenny jeans on clearance for $10 dollars (prior to JCP's new CEO implementing new strategy to rid frequent sales) paired with new Sketchers Shape-Ups.

Bargain jeans are comfortable and sensible. As mentioned, I got these jeans for $10 bucks on sale, down from $35. JCPenny clothes fit well and I routinely shop there for new flattering outfits at record prices. Until now. JCPenny's new marketing strategy makes every item one solid price with one monthly sale. A pair of jeans can be bought for $25 dollars. Call me cheap or on a budget but jeans are not deserving of that much hard earned cash. JCP used to be my favorite store before this new pricing strategy was implemented. Sadly, my visit yesterday revealed nothing more than a lack of inventory, and higher prices.

Ellen - The new spokesperson for JCPenny.

I adore Ellen and I'm not sure of her involvement with JCP as of right now. JCP's new CEO Ron Johnson made the decision for their new marketing strategy. However, I do know that customers like getting a good deal and JCP this week was lacking in the good deal department. However, I have not yet observed JCP's monthly sale and will update on that at another time.

Argan Oil and Keratin Therapy

2012-02-12T14:35:00.003-05:00

This current duo, the Renewing Morroccan Argan Oil Conditioner and the Ever Straight Brazilian Keratin Therapy Anti-Breakage Serum, work together and create luscious, soft, revitalized tresses.

Directions: Use the conditioner (blue bottle) after shampooing with coordinating Organix shampoo, or any generic shampoo. Leave in for several (five or more) minutes, massaging into every strand, particularly dry ends, from root to tip. Finger comb thoroughly to distribute product. Rinse.

My hair immediately after product is rinsed. It exudes softness which previously was non-existent after washing my hair due to excessive dryness.

Hair that retains and absorbs water is healthy hair.

Next step: Apply the Keratin Serum.

Directions: Rub between palms a nickel sized amount of product. Massage onto hair concentrating on dead areas and ends, and not the scalp. Coat the whole head. Brush through hair to distribute product evenly.

Let your tresses be untamed!

Or, apply heat for a mere 10 minutes to achieve a smoother look.

The Ever Straight Brazilian Keratin Therapy Anti-Breakage Serum conditions and softens hair prior to applying heat and speeds up this process 10 fold for much less damage to hair by creating a barrier between hair straightener and hair cuticles.

**As dead hair results when it is excessively fried, I do this hair treatment every three days including the deep conditioning with the Moroccan Argan Oil and the Brazilian Keratin Serum. Don't worry about excessive oil - this serum should be termed Brazilian Keratin Silk because that's what it does to your hair.

Plus, each day you go without washing your hair is beneficial to you (less opportunities to strip your hair of essential oils). Use a shower cap to keep your head dry during showering.

Breaking News - Jaw Surgery to Bargadacious Beauty Aficionado

2012-02-10T12:41:00.001-05:00

Today is day 178 on my jaw surgery blog. I've decided I do not want to neglect (delete) this blog and by continuing to utilize it I can therefore make updates about my jaw on here occasionally, while transferring the primary topic to beauty!!!!!!!! I spend the majority of my excess cash (money not spent on bills) on beauty stuff, whether it is hair products, makeup or fabulous things that make my skin glow, or heck, even a pair of new kicks and this is probably the reason I've survived working in retail the past eight years. It's what keeps me going! I must add though that the thrill for me is getting the aforementioned items at an unspeakable price because that is what makes these products worthwhile.

Anyone who wants to unsubscribe to my blog, no hard feelings, I do understand that there are people whose skin is too fabulous for words and are not interested in expert advice. I would have reverted to my original blog (Emily's Blog) but with less than 300 views and my jaw surgery blog at almost 3000, I get the feeling that people are more interested in procedures to break ones jaw then my everyday life . Try Googling Operation Break My Jaw and you'll see I am the first result shown! I do realize that I will also be gaining viewers inadvertently who are seeking out jaw surgery related info, but all my jaw stuff from six months ago is still present on this blog and once again I'll update about my jaw from time to time. Cheers!

Day 148 - First Snow Fall of 2012

2012-01-12T15:05:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

Today we received the first snowfall while living in our new apartment. This is a view from our porch.

I have been MIA in the blogging world lately, up until now. The holiday season and moving has kept us busy. I also got a little bored talking about the status of my jaw. Everything is going great. I still have severe back pain, but my surgeon recommended I see a physical therapist who would also be able to work with my jaw in hopes of having it open further. As of right now I'm not currently seeing one, and we are doing other beneficial maneuvers before making an appointment, such as massage.

Doug is working hard at Apple. He goes in to work during winter weather advisories because we all know how crucial the purchase of a Mac computer is. He is dedicated and good at what he does.

Santa got us all the Harry Potter movies and Doug has become an even bigger fan than I was when I was into these many years ago. We both are reborn again Potter fans. The proof is in the books. Books 4 and 5 were retrieved from my childhood bedroom at home and book 6 was retrieved from Doug's attic of his parents' house. Consider where we were in our lives during the initial Potter craze. I read up to book 5 and perhaps it was the thickness of these books that ended my interest in them for I never continued on in the series after that. A little while later, a little more southern in our state, a little Douggie was acquiring Potter book 6 of the series out of total spite. His high school girlfriend at the time was a Potter fanatic and so he went out on his own and bought the book before she was able to get hers. He never even read it. To top the cake, I also found a brand-new, never used, Harry Potter deluxe edition board game of mine. Let's get this party started! Woop woop.

Our joint Harry Potter collection at the moment. Doug's working on acquiring the rest of the books in the series.

Snoopy Pumpkin Spice hot chocolate, Snoopy Mug and my cold-weather attire keep me cozy and warm on snow days :)

Hope you all had a great Christmas and holiday season. Make it a great new year!

Day 96 - My Life Compared to Liz Lemon

2011-11-21T20:53:00.001-05:00

Alllo! I'm sitting here on our new love seat watching Liz Lemon's sad portrayal of life in 30 Rock, and I thought, well, if I remain on this path I am on, I could turn into Liz Lemon one day! Just kidding. I sure hope that isn't true. Although Liz is my idol, her role on this show makes her out to be a poorly dressed, routine woman. I like to think of myself as well dressed. I also would like to think that I will be successful one day. But Liz is successful. Baldwin is just busting her chops.

Back to my point. I realized I hadn't blogged in a while so here I am! Doug and I moved into our first apartment on November 15 and we've been slightly busy with moving and lugging all of our belongings up three flights of stairs with no elevator. It wasn't as bad at it sounds. Both sets of parents were along for the ride and to lend their hands. Everything is moved in and unpacked. Wednesday our remaining furniture will arrive including our dining room table which we will be serving our Thanksgiving meal on. I will be preparing all of the fixens, however, the guest of honor will not be present. I've never made a turkey before and therefor the guests and I deemed it not necessary. Alternative meats will be present by the mothers of the new apartment holders, and I'll be making a whole slue of yummy sides, treats and scrumptious things.

My jaw is doing good but I'll be back in a few weeks for routine check up. My last appointment (on move-in day) went well, however, my surgeon and ortho would like my mouth to open wider. I would like this too. Daily exercises have not been helping much. I'm back to only wearing the elastics at night but I have not noticed any difference in being able to open more since I've decreased my time wearing them. Surgeon mentioned physical therapy if my jaw doesn't open more. Our insurance ended and I'm now on a swell payment plan to knock down my current balance of my twenty four thousand dollar surgery. Fortunately I'm only responsible for about 3% of that and although that is a wonderfully lower amount, my pockets are still burning a whole with all these bills!

In efforts to save money we opted for basic cable. I must say I'm taking advantage of the channels we get as I never used to watch these low-number channels. Shows like 30 Rock, According to Jim, Terra Nova, House and Big Bang Theory, supply quality background sound while cooking or lazying around the apartment. It's all we need for now at least and it's much cheaper. Our wireless allows me to work comfortably from the couch and write my articles. Well, chao!

Doug and my office, sunny and bright and welcoming of our desk and my makeup table.

Day 81 - Update!

2011-11-06T21:33:00.000-05:00

Currently there are a few things going on in the world of my post-surgery jaw, eating habits and overall health and well-being. I've been slacking with keeping my blog up-to-date. The problem is that I have somewhat of a life and my time must be managed properly. Between watching Mrs. Doubtfire and drinking Bosco chocolate goodness I somehow struggle to find the time to type up this here blog post. But, since we gained an hour today with Daylight Savings Time, I thought I now have no excuse and that this one extra hour should be spent in total productivity.

First, I've recently developed an odd pain in my shoulder/neck region, similar to what dad experienced a few months ago when he was being irritable. He had a problem with his rotator cuff, the group of muscles that act to stabilize the shoulder. He messed it up when he tried lifting a tree singlehandedly. My pain began in my back as a mere dull ache a few weeks ago. I stand for several hours each shift at work and the hard cement floors certainly cannot be healthy for ones posture. As it progressed, my pain worsened and transmitted down my right side to my arm and shoulder. So what did I do? I didn't go to the doctor because last time I went to find out why I was tired, achy and had persistent headaches around the clock, tests were performed and one large bill was issued. Our insurance didn't cover the tests that were conducted. Results came in and I was told I'm normal and only a few hundred dollars in the whole.

After leaving the doc's office I did what anyone would do after receiving no helpful pieces of information in regards to making me healthy. I did my own research and discovered a lot of good information on TMJ. I subsequently decided it was a potential cause of my headaches as there's sufficient evidence to back up that claim. I self-diagnosed myself with TMJ. I figured that even if I didn't have it (although there's a great chance I do since uncle Pete says it is genetic as he also has it) my surgery was necessary due to my enormous overbite. Well, guess what folks, my headaches are back. I'm not jumping to conclusions as surgery was only two months ago and I'm still healing. Feeling is still coming back in different areas of my face and perhaps that explains the small, short, jolts of mild pain I've been receiving in my jaw area this past weekend.

So today I am at it once again, typing away on WebMD.com and it appears I have one of three things: a rotator cuff problem, a slipped disc, or frozen shoulder. Personally, all three of them sound very similar and I'm having trouble self-diagnosing my condition any further. All three of them say to rest it away and take anti-inflammatory medicine. Rest has helped a bit and I've been utilizing my left hand and neglecting my right for the time being. I'll also mention that my mild backache first began on my first day back to work. I figured my body wasn't used to work as it had been through so much trauma during surgery and afterwards I was use to resting all-day with no physical, heavy-duty movement. Standing for a long period of time can be especially rough for people in recovery.

On another note, I'm sick of wearing these elastics to keep my mouth closed. I'm back wearing my elastic bands 24/7 and removing them for a few hours each day. Orthodontist appointments have been less than ideal as my mouth isn't opening wide enough and my jaw is being "lazy" - according to my orthodontist. Apparently my jaw is much stronger than the bands that hold my mouth together, and I should bounce right back upon removing the elastics each morning and be able to open much wider. Currently one and a half finger widths can fit in my mouth but two would be more ideal.

Don't worry though, I have no problem with shoveling food into my mouth. I had a salad a few nights ago. I didn't think I could do it but I attempted, as I was in public and thought total regurgitation might be an unfortunate sight for fellow dining patrons. Besides salad I have been mowing down foods such as beef stew, chicken parmesan, and delicious cookie treats like the one below.

Not quite as good as Uno, but Applebee's Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae hit the spot!

Yum.

Day 72 - Bosco

2011-10-28T22:32:00.004-04:00

Mom brought home this chocolate syrup goodness one day and my life has never been the same since. I simply add it to a wholesome glass of milk and bam, my previously innocent and chocolate-lacking beverage has been transformed. I like how I can monitor the chocolate level and rev it up or minimize my chocolate intake... if that were ever needed, although I'm not sure why I would want to have less chocolate in my life. I found a Bosco recipe on their website and it's super easy to make. Stay tuned for future news of my Bosco cake. I'm sure it will be fabulous as I've been seeking out a perfect chocolate cake recipe with ideal levels of moiste-ness, and chocolate syrup may be the ingredient I had been missing.

Add Bosco Chocolate Syrup to your milk, dessert or bake into recipes.

Doug is healing up well after his wisdom-teeth removal, so now we are both almost entirely patched up and back to normal. I'm wearing two rabbit (the small size) elastics currently 24/7 but removed for eating and brushing. However, this ratio of time spent wearing versus having them off has been tweaked slightly. I spoke to my surgeon who suggested I remove them for a few hours each day. The current placement of the elastics is for strengthening purposes. My jaws are quite strong (according to my surgeon) and my elastics wearing have been reimplemented by the orthodontist. This coming week's ortho appointment will reveal the next step. If I'm able to open my mouth wide enough for work to be done then they will surely be satisfied. But somehow, when jaws are forcibly closed for the majority of hours each day, they do not want to open much when they are allowed to do so. I guess they are expecting a miracle on Thursday. Let's hope the one centimeter current opening will be doubled by my enormous amount of food I enjoy eating and daily mouth stretching exercises.

After reviewing my last blog post, I just realized I have forgot to mention that we got approved for our apartment. Our background and credit checks passed and we are moving into our new home (a place to call our own) on November 15, just in time for Thanksgiving. I would love to spend the holiday in our new place and prepare our first festive holiday meal. Sure it will be a lot of work but it will be a whole lot of fun to use all of our appliances and have everyone over.

The job market (as you probably know) is still looking meek, weak and depressing. I don't like saying "the economy" because what does that even mean? It's boring talk, like the stuff they speak of on those financial channels that only old people watch. Truth be told though, there are few jobs. I'm cherishing my current job and working hard because it's all I, or anyone, can do. I read somewhere that old tactics and tricks used for finding a job in a good economy are not going to work anymore. You must up the ante and try harder, work harder, be smarter and be so much better. Kiss ass even if it hurts. That's my tidbit of inspiration for tonight but I'll leave you with one thought. Don't get discouraged because that won't get you anywhere either. If you don't want to take my word for it, fine, but take Lucy's!

One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn't pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore your faith in yourself.

~Lucille Ball

Day 62 - The Best Part of the Muffin

2011-10-18T14:36:00.000-04:00

I figured I would write a blog post today and utilize my downtime. I'm bad at the blog thing when I don't have excessive amounts of free-time. I figure one post every week or so should be sufficient. Doug had his wisdom teeth removed this morning and I'm here taking good care of him. Who else would know all about oral surgery and the recovery period, than I? I must say, upon seeing Doug in recovery I couldn't help but smile and be glad that he didn't have his jaws broken but only two stubborn teeth removed. I also smiled when the surgeon mentioned that Doug was a tough guy and that he had to supply extra drugs to put him under because apparently he was giving the doc hell. Hmm... I'll have to find out more later but I am aware of how defensive he sometimes gets when medical persons get too close to him! Ha.

Prior to taking more meds, I made him some delicious instant mashed potatoes, and I'm in love -- they look like fish food before cooking and take only a minute or two to make! My favorite moment is when you add the flakes and they settle into the liquid and instantly become mashed potatoes. I'm in such awe at this revelation because I grew up in a family that did not eat instant potatoes. But, since I'll be moving out of aforementioned family's house very soon, (we found an apartment and are still waiting on appending approval as we are first time leasers and have an established move-in date set for November 14, I will certainly be stocking up on the instant mashed potatoes! After all, something has got to fill up all the empty cabinets!

Doug resting peacefully, and me staying current on my blog.

I'm not sure where I left off in my last post, but I'm now done, cold-turkey with wearing my rubber elastics. This past week I resumed with wearing one sole elastic on my front teeth while sleeping. My surgeon suggested this because my surgical hooks should presumably be removed Wednesday by the ortho and it's wise to use these hooks while we have them! (Two weeks ago I visited the ortho but was unable to open my mouth wide enough to accomplish anything -- Fortunately I have more range now and this week's appointment is looking promising).

My next appointment with my surgeon isn't scheduled until December, so I'll be taking a break from the weekly or bi-weekly visits. My swelling particularly in the chin and cheeks is decreasing at a steady rate. My weight is gradually going back up and I can now eat cheeseburgers after slicing them finely and forking in bite sized pieces.

Pork and crunchy vegetables are still no-no's but that's fine with me. Never was a big fan of either one.

What's not to like about 30 Rock, starring my favorite Tina Fey (Liz Lemon)??????
Do check it out. The best part of the muffin....

2011-10-07T23:48:00.000-04:00

Check Out Cracker Barrel's Fall Contest!

Day 50 - Regurgitation and Slobbering

2011-10-06T16:12:00.001-04:00

Yikes, it's been a week since my last blog post! To my defense, I had a busy week. This past weekend consisted of exciting wedding festivities to celebrate the wedding of my cousin. This event was my first big event since surgery and I managed to scarf down a select few food items. I was appreciative of their gateway into mealtime with delicious soup, I think it was called Italian Wedding. I easily consumed this as well as soft rolls and scrumptious chocolate cupcake for dessert. The main entree was difficult to get down without whole-swollowing chicken but I did okay. Especially since I whole-swallowed probably a dozen little cheese chunks prior to dinner. Whole-swallowing, although not recommended, works decently well.

The night prior at the pre-wedding festivities, Doug and I escaped for a short time to the pizza shop next door (for me to avoid awkward eating pictures of me inhaling food in its entirety). Cut into tiny pieces and partially de-cheesed, pizza (with an abundance) of water can pass through the esophagus nicely. But I sure had one heck of a tummy ache the next day.

Doug and I after the ceremony testing out the alter ;)

I'm happy to say I can partially chew now. I'm still gumming things down but without thinking much I can get pasta down. Lucky for me spaghetti is our main staple in this house.

The seasons are changing and I'm freezing my end off. Mom and dad don't like to put the heat on until after Christmas. Well not quite but seriously here, I'm cold. How about you invest in a fireplace heat exchanger and save moments of complaints from number one daughter? These are nifty because they help build up amazing heat in the fireplace while making sure to keep smoke from coming into your home.

Monday night was my last night wearing elastic bands and I'm currently bandless. I had my orthodontist appointment Wednesday but not much could be done. I can only open my mouth the smallest amount and wires could not be changed. They did replace my stained front brackets that had got a little nasty while being wired shut. I've also been given a week off from my weekly sugery post-op visits. I'll be seeing the surgeon in five days to see how everything is going. My orthodontist remarked that my bite right now looks fantastic, but that could change and I may have to wear elastics again. Oh give me a break. Now you would think that since I'm robotically assembled with nuts and bolts that nothing is able to move but I guess anything is possible. Only time will tell...

Today is day 50 in my recovery from jaw surgery. My first day back to work was this past Tuesday. It took me long enough and my finances are kicking me in the butt for taking my sweet time going back to work. Five hour shifts of work are perfect right now as eating (shoveling food through my tiny opening) in front of co-workers is not ideal. Although one co-worker today commented that she has successfully raised her children, implying that my regurgitation and slobbering during meal time is nothing to be ashamed of.

Future blog posts will be written on a need-to-write basis meaning that they'll be posted for important, worth-mentioning topics. Since I'm back working, my downtime (excessive sleeping) has been replaced with hours of productivity. Although I consider my blog productive, the world still continues if I don't post. I think. My jaw is doing fabulous today besides the remaining numbness in my chin which hasn't disappeared yet. Massage is said to stimulate circulation so when washing my face I pay particular attention to the numb areas.

While paying attention to my numb parts of my face, I do so in front of my little bedroom mirror. I've always wanted a vanity mirror that comes part of a vanity bedroom set. Different sizes, colors and materials can be used in creating the perfect one for you. Many cheap vanities are available. Cool lights are fun accessories too to have while using your vanity mirror. Have you ever considered possini lighting to give your room some sparkle? Add glow with different color hues. From traditional to extraordinary, different lighting options are available from chandeliers to table lamps. Explore your options and put some color into your world.

Day 42 - Sad Blender Story

2011-09-28T17:47:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a monumental day but I was too tired to blog as I had sufficiently talked and eaten for the majority of the day. I got my bands off at my appointment and now I only wear them at night for one week. In a week I will see my orthodontist for the first time since before surgery. She will hopefully fix some parts on my braces that have loosened up during surgery. Afterwards she will call my surgeon and report to him how everything is going on my mouth in regards to orthodontics. I will stop wearing my elastic bands at night one day before my ortho appointment. This way my mouth will be completely free for 24 hours and hopefully I'll be able to open my mouth a bit wider.

Doug and I at my 6th week post-op appointment.

Currently I can open my mouth about 1/2 a cm. I haven't measured it but this is what it feels like. I'm not to open my mouth wider than it will go, but overtime it will gradually open wider. I can eat soft foods such as scrambled eggs which I had for breakfast. I also had a piece of toast covered in butter and strawberry jam. After cutting it in tiny pieces it was able to go down easily. Pasta, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, apple sauce, yogurt, jell-o, macaroni and cheese and Ghiradelli fudge brownies are all great options for a soft food diet. Doug and I made the latter last night and they were oh my God, to die for. I've tasted brownies in my frequent ice cream shakes, but not like this. I could feel the soft gooeyness in my mouth as I washed it down with chocolate ice cream. Soft foods are good. I also tried french fries today. I ate about five fries. I'm taking it slow and considered this a great improvement as last McDees experience I merely lapped all the salt off the fry. One step at a time.

Aforementioned Ghiradelli fudge brownies for dad's birthday.

I retired my blender today and put it back on its perch in the corner of the kitchen. I feel more swollen today, probably from the sudden increase in talking and chewing. My jaw is becoming adjusted to using the chompers again. It's definitely a lot of work having to chew my own food and it's definitely a compromise. The blender was doing all the work for me but I was suffering in consistency. Now I got flavor, body, texture and consistency but I'm a little puffed out. It's a fair trade. I'll take it.

Teethy smile and I'm suddenly not overpowering the picture with my teeth.

Doug and I preparing another delicious meal.

Day 40 - New 'Do' and Twigs

2011-09-26T17:24:00.001-04:00

I just got back from the salon for my quarterly cut. I seem to get my hair cut every four or so months. I don't make regular appointments, but head to the salon when my hair tells me it would like a trim. I had a lot of dead ends, uneven bangs and my hair was getting to be too much to handle! My stylist Jillian did a fabulous job, like always, and added layers, trimmed up the ends (took off 1") and helped blend in my butchered bangs (my error, I thought I wanted bangs awhile back and they've never grown out properly).

New layers, length and shine.

Tomorrow is my sixth week post-operative appointment. If everything goes well I will leave tomorrow's appointment with news that I only have to wear my rubber bands at night. This will be a good-case scenario. An excellent-case scenario would be that I don't have to wear my bands at all anymore. I actually have grown accustomed to wearing them and my jaw feels more secure, like a finely wrapped Christmas present that's all dolled up and ready to be delivered. I'm mechanically put together with screws on each side of my jaw, that hopefully will never fall out and will naturally be covered by the tissue in my mouth. Whatever the doc decides is fine with me. See how easy-going I've become? He's smart and I put my faith in him to not mess up my whole facial construction and he did not let me down there. He's good.

I'm now eating the most in six weeks. When I have my bands off I set the clock and try to cram as much food in me as I can in that period of time. Oh gosh that isn't true; I would feel sick if I did that. It's close though, but it's more like this. I've been eating whatever everyone else is having for dinner with a nominal amount of liquid. The consistency no longer must be extreme in regards to liquidness. It now can be rather thick, just as long as when I pick up my glass the liquid will eventually pour out into my mouth. I've been having about four scoops of ice-cream each day. It's all air I'm telling you and it's very disappointing when I walk away to let it melt and come back to find a sad, quarter filled glass of melted ice cream. I sometimes add a little chocolate or regular milk to compensate for this air phenomenon and to make myself believe I'm really drinking a whole fattening glass of ice cream.

Mom told me yesterday that if she didn't know me she would think I was very sick because of my weight loss. This is a little bit exaggerated because I've only lost nine pounds in the past six weeks and if you recall I was determined to stick to my goal of not weighing less than 100 pounds after surgery (or ever in my lifetime). People weighing less than 100 are children, those creepily-skinny-smoker type people, and then of course people with extreme sickness. Don't worry, my weight will bounce back once I'm eating food that my blender hasn't modified. I must say that my legs look twig-like and although I may be on the skinny-side, prior to surgery I've always had chunky limbs. Today I flaunted my twigs as I know they will not last and went to the salon to get my hair done. Dad commented that my new 'do' was getting me a lot of doors being held open. The new 'do' was a fine accomplice but I think the twigs had something to do with it too.

These twigs look good and they may, key word 'may' have enticed me to tone up these twigs once I start eating regular and maintain a healthy body physique. But what fun is that? Exercise + me just does not mix. I try to run on the treadmill but I just get bored, out of breath or I find something more exciting to do like eat a big juicy cheeseburger. Skinny people should exercise too because heart conditions and health problems can effect anyone but what motivation is available for us twigs? Non-exericising twigs are constantly being told throughout life how skinny they are and what is their response? Oh why thank you I eat burgers and fries until they come out my ears but I'm sorry you can't do that too because you're a plus size supermodel and those things would kill you. Everyone tells us how skinny we are but can we tell you how fat you are? Oh gosh no that would be terribly rude. Both scenarios have it hard. Eating a fry and gaining ten pounds must be irritating, but eating a whole box of fries and a burger and not gaining a pound is also irritating. Or eating all the before-mentioned items and not gaining any new weight but stockpiling the lard into those thunder-thighs is a real burden too. Everyone has got a bone to throw and it's fine as long as it's not a chicken bone or if it is make sure to devour all that meat on the bone first. ;)

Day 38 - Real Crapper of a Day

2011-09-24T21:56:00.000-04:00

Today is a real crapper kind of a day. It's humid and muggy, dreary and damp outside. I'm wearing shorts because I feel so sticky today, it's real gross I'm telling you. Mom and dad went to the Greek fest and brought home a whole slue of goodies such as baklava, grape leaves, spinach pita (you know the thing with feta cheese inside, outside fila dough), and some solid (I mean delicious and 100% real, not hard), double chocolate brownies. I finished off my taco meal by blending up some brownie frozen yogurt, half of one of these large brownies and some milk to blend it up properly. It's just delicious and my bands are currently off so I don't have to worry about any small chunks getting in the way.

I've been taking my bands off at lunch and dinner for about an hour each time. It's real simple to remove them with tweezers. I change the bands out with new ones at night time as they get stretched out during the day. But even with new bands my mouth is still able to have a lot of freedom, so they are just there for guidance, and to make sure I'm not shoveling food in my mouth. Even if I wanted to start shoveling in the food, I wouldn't be able to at this point. I tried to avoid blending the spinach pita thing but my mouth doesn't open wide enough as of right now. I blended it with just a little bit of water and it tasted and smelt delicious, very similar to the actual thing. My tacos by the way were fabulous so here is the recipe for them below:

1/2 cup ground beef

1/2 seasoned rice pilaf

A handful of grated cheese

1/4 cup chopped tomatoes

1/4 shredded lettuce

1/4 chopped onions

2 tablespoons minced garlic

A dollop of Sour Cream

Add all ingredients into a tall glass, in the order listed.

Toss into blender.

Add one can warmed up tomato sauce + one can water.

Blend until desired tendency, and enjoy.

As you can see I've been eating pretty good. I've been taking care and creating fun meals even though it will always end up in the blender it's still exciting to prepare. I seem to have gotten a cold so this morning I crushed up a vitamin C tablet and added it to my Carnation dark chocolate (new flavor and very yummy) breakfast shake. This is also why I am consuming such a fine quantity of garlic, it certainly does give my meals a real kick, really adds some pizzazz that I just can't live without.

Doug took these photos on his iPhone so I would know where to put my bands each time I took them off.

Flattering pictures, yes?

Day 36 - 5 Week Post-Op

2011-09-22T16:18:00.000-04:00

I just returned from the surgeon's office for my 5 week post-operative appointment. I got some cool elastics in two little bags. There are the rabbit (large) and chipmunk (small) bands to change out and remove for two hours each day. I can brush my teeth and experience freedom during this time twice daily. I made a little diagram so I don't forget what teeth they are on. Next Tuesday will be my 6th week post-operative visit, and hopefully my bands will be removed at that time. I may have to wear them only at night after that for a bit, but that is fine with me as long as they are off during the day time hours. For this week my diet will remain the same, although I won't be wearing bands 100% of the time, I'm still on the liquid diet.

Doug brought over the movie Bridesmaids to watch tonight and it looks real funny. We both like going to Wally World to pick up fun $5 dollar movies but sometimes the selection isn't the greatest. If you want some awesome funny movies at a cleverly low price, check out comedy movies and see their full selection. Also available are comedy television shows. You can even sort through various producers such as Walt Disney or Paramount if looking for a select title. You search by lowest price, highest price or best deal too. The website offers funny movies and sitcoms so next time you're seeking out a movie or show, be sure to check them out. I know during my recovery from surgery my movie watching hobby has increased significantly.

Doug and I playing on the computer, waiting at the surgeon's office.

My surgeon also feather-dusted my face with my eyes closed to see how my regaining-feeling was coming. He thinks it's probable that I'll gain all my feeling back. I say that is good news! Feeling is nice, I would like my feeling back but it's fine right now and I'm dealing. I'm not totally numb by any means, just tingly in the chin and lower lip.

Eating was a breeze tonight. Mom made her awesome veggie and pork stir-fy, and I made some seasoned rice. Try blending that all together with some warmed up apple juice, and you got yourself a delicious meal! Oh, but don't forget the garlic, I did and then had to re-blend it. Garlic is key flavoring, not that mom's stir-fry isn't delicious but when it comes to blended food think flavor, flavor and yes, flavor.

Did I mention Douggie made "homemade boxed Ghirardelli" brownies? That may be an oxymoron, however they were delicious. He said they're homemade because he added in extra chocolate and olive oil. That's my Douggie, he's creative and a wonderful from-scratch kind of cook. I took the brownies, added a scoop of chocolate ice cream, whipped cream and cold milk and had myself a tall glass of 500 calories and enjoyed it to the last drop.

I mention all this food because it's considerably easier to eat since today's visit. My bands are in place as a gentle means of holding my jaw but they really aren't doing a whole lot. They are weak bands and get stretched out easily, that's why I have a couple of bags to change them out when needed. This also makes food go into my mouth in a much quicker, easier, less-messy fashion. I think I made a new record and guzzled mum's stir-fry in less than three minutes. I also got more fake Ensure today too and I suggest you try it if you haven't already, it's delicious.

Since these new bands are so weak, it's apparent that my jaw has become quite strong once again. It's holding its own well, and the doc says my bite is looking "pretty good". I consider this an excellent remark because he's a serious perfectionist and pretty good is high up there for such a well-thought-out, genius type of man. That's why I have the bands on today. Other surgeons may have let me loose a few weeks ago but I'm glad I'm still banded up and playing it safe to avoid any unnecessary negative outcomes.