50 Ways to Save Money on a Lower Income
A little about me: I work at a dental office ¾ time or approximately 35 hours a week. I have a lot of health issues and found that working more than that impacted my health. My husband is a project manager for a fishing industry company. He makes an average amount but loves his job and therefore is not interested in looking for a higher-paying job elsewhere. So we had to find a way to make it work.
On top of it, I live with 3 autoimmune diseases; two of them are expensive. With my type 1 diabetes, I have to pay for monthly insulin pump supplies, insulin, test strips and other supplies, part of which is not covered by my insurance; and for my celiac disease, I cannot eat anything that has gluten in it or may have been cross-contaminated with gluten on machinery, which eliminates A LOT of generic brands of food. I eat a very low-carb diet, which means I eat no fruit, pasta, rice, bread or processed food but I do eat a lot of meat and vegetables.
I used to be one of those people who thought saving money was only for those who could afford to. I thought, If you are already living paycheck to paycheck, how are you supposed to have enough money to start an emergency savings? I don’t spend on anything not necessary, so how am I supposed to cut back?
This question plagued me, but I was determined to find out, since my husband and I were in debt and, without a plan, it didn’t appear that would change. I checked out books from the library, read financial blogs, followed financial people on FB and IG, watched every single episode of Extreme Cheapskates on tv and my husband and I took Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University through our church. Surprisingly enough, I DID find ways to save money AND pay off debt AND have a cushy emergency savings. I wanted to share with you the list of things we wrote out during our planning stages; ideas we gathered from all the sources we researched, that we continue to do 6 years later. Some of these things are common sense, but when we were crunching to save money, we wrote down everything we could do, even the obvious ones. So here we go:
1. Unplug every outlet in my house that I’m not currently using- including lamps, tv’s, computers, charging cords, etc.
2. Turn off all lights and TVs in rooms not being used. Don’t leave a room and leave the light/tv on.
3. I don’t get manicures or pedicures (Why spend $30-$40? It’s free at home. Give yourself a nice Epsom salt soak, drop in a few drops of essential oil…smells amazing!)
4. I never eat out at lunch time. I pack my lunch every single day.
5. I asked for (and received) a Ninja Coffee Bar for my birthday so I could make my own fancy schmancy coffees instead of paying $4-$5 for one at Starbucks (it makes the best iced coffee drinks!)
6. If I see a book I want, I check the library first, followed by a local used book store. I also check with a couple of my book worm friends to see if they have it.
7. I don’t pay for magazine subscriptions. I work at a dental office and take them home and read them for free.
8. The magazine subscriptions I do have, I earn for free using www.recyclebank.com. You read articles and take short quizzes on recycling and earn free magazines! I haven’t paid for my People magazine subscription in over 5 years.
9. I ask for practical things for Christmas, such as car wash certificates or gift cards to a place where I am saving up for something. As an example, for a year and a half, for all holidays/birthdays I asked for TJ Maxx gift cards, because I wanted to purchase a Le Creuset pan. I was finally able to get it! And my husband and I asked for gift cards to Home Depot so we could fund small home improvement projects we wanted to start.
10. My husband and I eat out maybe 1x month. It is planned in advanced and is based on gift cards we have or coupons we can find online or in the weekly flyers.
11. I use Aquaphor ointment on my lips 24/7. Nothing keeps them as soft at this and a small tube will last you years.
12. We have sold a lot of our stuff. Like Dave Ramsey says, “Sell so much stuff the kids think they’re next.” LOL. We live by the motto that if you don’t use it regularly and it’s not nailed down, sell it. I use a combination of eBay, local facebook garage sale sites and Craigslist. Today I sold back a stack of books and cookbooks to a used bookstore and made $47 cash.
13. I use half the recommended amount of laundry soap and my clothes are always clean.
14. On that note, when I used to use dryer sheets, I cut all of them in half and used half a sheet per load. Now, I don’t use them at all and just use wool dryer balls with some essential oil drops on them.
15. I make my own salad dressings. I love dump ranch (google it) and I make a vinaigrette out of oil, apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper and a splenda packet.
16. I use white vinegar as the rinse aid for my dishwasher.
17. Never pay for services you can do yourself, such as yard work, house cleaning, pedi/mani’s, car washes (unless you have gift cards).
18. I never ever buy canned soup. Make your own! Google what soup you want to make. It tastes way better anyway! Freeze half for later.
19. If I must buy soda, I buy a 2-liter instead of cans and bottles.
20. I take Martha Stewart’s advice- she said never buy anything from a gas station except gas!
21. I buy either boxed cards, or I go to Dollar Tree and buy 2/$1 cards. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND the trend of these $5, $6, $7 cards you see now at Target and Walmart!!!!
22. I never buy paper plates, cups or silverware.
23. I don’t replace my technology (ex: cell phones, tablets) until they literally stop working. Right now I am using a super old Lenovo laptop that my husband got from his work for free. They even update it with new security and Microsoft Office Suite they use on their work computers.
24. I use a very minimalist approach to decorating- the less the better. Besides, it will make your house look MUCH cleaner, too.
25. I use my razors much longer than most people. I change them only when they get really dull.
26. For shaving cream, I use Pure Silk brand (found at Walmart and Walgreens) because each can literally lasts me 6 months or longer compared to other brands.
27. I use plastic grocery bags as my small-can garbage bags.
28. I never purchase snacks or drinks from vending machines. So overpriced!
29. I upcycle/repurpose as many items in my home as possible. For example, I use old food jars for food storage (like pickle and spaghetti jars), I use an old mail organizer under my kitchen sink to organize my cutting boards.
30. Any leftover coffee in the pot is put into a Thermos and reheated the next morning (tastes fine to me!)
31. I don’t drink alcohol, which in general saves me a lot of money. I don’t go to bars and when I go to restaurants, I only order water.
32. I do a lot of free activities- reading is my #1, but I also exercise by going for walks and doing DVDs, I love cooking and trying out new recipes, too. Also, going out for coffee with a friend is a less expensive option than going out to eat.
33. My husband and I both cancelled our low-cost gym memberships. Even if they are cheap, they still cost money and unless you are a die-hard worker outer who’s NOT in debt, I say cut it.
34. I would never pay for a service like Sirius radio. Regular radio is free, granted, not as much variety, but free.
35. I plan errands in advance so I can map them out so as not to waste gas.
36. Every 6-12 months I renegotiate my internet and garbage rates. I am not just throwing a threat out there to them- I WILL cancel if they do not reduce my rates.
37. We always buy used vehicles (both of ours, a 2008 Subaru Outback and a 2014 Chevy Silverado, are paid for). Let the first owner take the depreciation hit! Also, I really take care of my vehicles. I do the maintenance, keep them very clean inside and out and I don’t drive them hard.
38. I grocery shop at Aldi for almost everything. There are a few things I can’t get there in which case I will run to Walmart.
39. I buy home organizational things from Dollar Tree.
40. I wash and reuse my Ziploc bags.
41. I shop at thrift stores and clearance racks for clothes. I usually will not spend more than $10-15 for any clothing item. Most of my shirts were under $10 (even the brand new ones).
42. I read a lot of frugal and minimalist blogs for new ideas!
43. I go to a local beauty school for haircuts and color. I save over $100 JUST ON THE COLOR ALONE.
44. I don’t use coupons.
45. I always write on both sides of my paper, and will use scrap paper (something that already has something printed on the front) to print stuff out on the back side.
46. I don’t throw out food! If I think it might go bad, I eat it or freeze it.
47. I use an envelope system to budget. I pay cash for just about everything.
48. I have $0 credit card debt because I pay for everything in cash.
49. I only own 2 household cleaners- Scrubbing Bubbles for my bathtub and Young Living Thieves concentrated household cleaner for everything else. Don’t waste your money on cleaners that are single-purpose. A good multipurpose will clean your counters, appliances, floors, windows and mirrors. And I use just a plain microfiber towel for dusting. I am a complete clean freak and am always cleaning my house.
50. I eat a lot of eggs. They are the cheapest form of protein you will find and they are versatile. I fry them, boil them and bake them into egg muffin cups. I love eggs.
Now let me just tell you a few things that I DON’T skimp on:
1. Pet care. Buy them good quality food and take them to the vet for vaccinations, wellness and sick visits. Do not let them be sick simply because it’s not in your budget. If you can’t afford to take care of them, find them a home that can.
2. Health care/health insurance/dental insurance. I always get the highest/best plan available, even if the premiums are higher. I have health conditions and prescriptions so it saves me money in the long run.
3. Healthy food/meals. I do not eat any (read: ANY) processed food. I make everything from scratch and never use mixes or crap like that.
4. Timely car maintenance/repairs. Getting your oil changed regularly (or do it yourself if you have the know-how) and also getting small issues fixed before they get bigger is going to save you money.
The best way to save money is to stop spending it. Quit buying the coffee, buying extra things not on your grocery list when you are at Walmart/Target, don’t buy 15 different household cleaners. Quit buying stuff. Set a strict grocery budget for yourself. Make it hard; see if you can do it. If you didn’t allow yourself enough; increase it in small increments. For example, with my type 1 diabetes and celiac disease, I have to follow special medical diets. But between my husband and I, we are still able to eat on $75/week. I buy only 1 week of groceries at a time, which helps to stop overspending. Only buy what you can eat THAT WEEK. It’s easy to want to “stock up” when you see a good price on something but you will quickly blow your weekly budget that way. Don’t worry; something else will be on sale next week and you can eat that instead. Resist the temptation to “stock up.” At least until you get your debt under control.
My husband and I now have financial freedom; we only owe a mortgage and a
small boat loan (almost paid off). We have a nice savings account. But we still live the frugal lifestyle by choice. And we (by comparison) do not make a lot of money. It doesn’t matter how much you make; it’s what you are doing with every little dime.
Sunday, August 13, 2017
Saturday, May 23, 2015
A new outlook, A new approach to autoimmune disease management.
Well, hello there!
I’ve been gone for a while. I took some time away from blogging in order to create and implement a strategy for my health. I had felt my health was declining for many different reasons, including excess stress, poor diet, and poor stress management. I knew I HAD to make a change before my health went further down the toilet, so after leaving my job in March 2014, I took 9 months off from work. I spent several months -600 miles from home, where I reconnected with family and old friends. I spent many hours looking over the lake. I also spent my days with my beloved dog, Bella, who has terminal cancer (who was given a devastatingly short prognosis in December 2013 and to the surprise of her doggy oncologist and family vet IS STILL HERE!). I meditated and yoga’d daily. I read a lot of books. I spent time alone and I decided to be quiet; very quiet, for a long time, so I could listen to what my body was trying to tell me. I realized that I was DONE working for the corporate world and driving an hour each day in city rush hour traffic, I was done with the stress and would return to working once I found a small company in the suburbs, where I live. Money was no longer the priority; health and sanity were.
As many of you know if you follow me on twitter or Instagram, I have followed the Paleo way of eating for about a year and a half. I have been working toward cleaning up my way of eating over time, and recently, I decided to try the AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diet. It is similar to Paleo, however it excludes a few more foods, including nightshades (tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, etc.) and certain spices (paprika, black pepper, cumin, etc.), and initially excludes things like eggs, nuts, seeds, until after the elimination period, at which time you will reintroduce one food at a time to see how your body reacts to it. I already know I am allergic to dairy and raw onions, as I was diagnosed after a skin test and a blood test at the allergist’s office. Not anaphylactic allergic, but I will experience symptoms of discomfort when I eat these foods. But I have wondered if other foods may be the cause of my bloating, acne and fatigue. The fatigue has been debilitating; on my days off I would sleep 15-16 hours throughout the day and night. I was so fatigued that I could not get up to do even simple things around my house, like dishes, cooking, picking up rooms or even showering.
Having 3 autoimmune diseases, I am always interested in reading research on foods that help or harm your body when you have autoimmune diseases. I have also been searching out blogs and YouTube channels of others who try to manage their autoimmune diseases with diet and lifestyle. I have been following the Paleo Cajun Lady on Instagram and reading her blog, and she is very inspiring to me. She recommended the book The Paleo Approach by Dr. Sarah Ballantyne, an expert on autoimmune diseases, so I purchased it this week. This book will take me a while to get through; as it is almost 450 pages! It seems to have everything you have ever wanted to know about autoimmune diseases and diet. I then purchased AIP Batch Cook program from Mickey Trescott, who provides videos that walk you through the cooking process in real-time. Her recipes are absolutely delicious and I have been eating them for a couple of weeks now.
I will tell you I am a firm believer that diet is a big factor in one’s ability to manage his/her autoimmune disease(s). I’m not saying food can cure you; but it sure can affect your management and your day-to-day functioning if you are not eating right. An example for me was when I had been eating clean for quite some time, and then in a weak moment with friends I ate 2 slices of gluten free pizza. Having not eaten grains in so long, I began to not feel well; bloated and sluggish. I had been feeling great for so long and had achieved good blood sugar control, and then I ate that pizza and it set me back health-wise. Not only did I feel a little icky and bloated, but my blood sugar soared high, and it took the better portion of a day to get it down in a normal, healthy range. I wanted to kick myself in the pants. I was so mad at myself! The pizza was SO NOT WORTH IT!
At my wedding earlier this month, I was proud of myself for not having any gluten free cake at my own wedding! I had shredded meat and veggies, and for drinks all I had were several bottles of water. No alcohol! I’ve never viewed myself as disciplined and sticking to things is hard for me. But if you have ever heard the phrase “sick and tired of being sick and tired” then let’s just say that’s where I am at right now, and that mentality has helped me to stick to a diet that improves my health and gives me energy and clear skin.
Now, I am NO expert on Paleo, AIP diet, autoimmune diseases or anything else, so please don’t think I am handing out advice and saying that YOU should follow this way of eating. I am only sharing my own personal experience with you on my blog. Your situation is your own and you have to make those decisions for yourself.
Nowadays, life is good. I have a great job at a small firm 8 minutes from my house (exactly what I was looking for!) I am married to someone who is very supportive of me and my many autoimmune diseases, food allergies and chemical allergies. He loves me very much. (Again, exactly what I was looking for!) I still enjoy daily yoga and meditation practices, which helps me manage stress and anxiety. I take my time cooking and enjoy the process of putting lots of love and care into my food. And of course, I still spend lots of time every day with my very special dog, Bella, whom I hope will be here for years to come.
If any of you know of other autoimmune disease or AIP blogs or YouTube channels, please let me know!
I’ve been gone for a while. I took some time away from blogging in order to create and implement a strategy for my health. I had felt my health was declining for many different reasons, including excess stress, poor diet, and poor stress management. I knew I HAD to make a change before my health went further down the toilet, so after leaving my job in March 2014, I took 9 months off from work. I spent several months -600 miles from home, where I reconnected with family and old friends. I spent many hours looking over the lake. I also spent my days with my beloved dog, Bella, who has terminal cancer (who was given a devastatingly short prognosis in December 2013 and to the surprise of her doggy oncologist and family vet IS STILL HERE!). I meditated and yoga’d daily. I read a lot of books. I spent time alone and I decided to be quiet; very quiet, for a long time, so I could listen to what my body was trying to tell me. I realized that I was DONE working for the corporate world and driving an hour each day in city rush hour traffic, I was done with the stress and would return to working once I found a small company in the suburbs, where I live. Money was no longer the priority; health and sanity were.
As many of you know if you follow me on twitter or Instagram, I have followed the Paleo way of eating for about a year and a half. I have been working toward cleaning up my way of eating over time, and recently, I decided to try the AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diet. It is similar to Paleo, however it excludes a few more foods, including nightshades (tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, etc.) and certain spices (paprika, black pepper, cumin, etc.), and initially excludes things like eggs, nuts, seeds, until after the elimination period, at which time you will reintroduce one food at a time to see how your body reacts to it. I already know I am allergic to dairy and raw onions, as I was diagnosed after a skin test and a blood test at the allergist’s office. Not anaphylactic allergic, but I will experience symptoms of discomfort when I eat these foods. But I have wondered if other foods may be the cause of my bloating, acne and fatigue. The fatigue has been debilitating; on my days off I would sleep 15-16 hours throughout the day and night. I was so fatigued that I could not get up to do even simple things around my house, like dishes, cooking, picking up rooms or even showering.
Having 3 autoimmune diseases, I am always interested in reading research on foods that help or harm your body when you have autoimmune diseases. I have also been searching out blogs and YouTube channels of others who try to manage their autoimmune diseases with diet and lifestyle. I have been following the Paleo Cajun Lady on Instagram and reading her blog, and she is very inspiring to me. She recommended the book The Paleo Approach by Dr. Sarah Ballantyne, an expert on autoimmune diseases, so I purchased it this week. This book will take me a while to get through; as it is almost 450 pages! It seems to have everything you have ever wanted to know about autoimmune diseases and diet. I then purchased AIP Batch Cook program from Mickey Trescott, who provides videos that walk you through the cooking process in real-time. Her recipes are absolutely delicious and I have been eating them for a couple of weeks now.
I will tell you I am a firm believer that diet is a big factor in one’s ability to manage his/her autoimmune disease(s). I’m not saying food can cure you; but it sure can affect your management and your day-to-day functioning if you are not eating right. An example for me was when I had been eating clean for quite some time, and then in a weak moment with friends I ate 2 slices of gluten free pizza. Having not eaten grains in so long, I began to not feel well; bloated and sluggish. I had been feeling great for so long and had achieved good blood sugar control, and then I ate that pizza and it set me back health-wise. Not only did I feel a little icky and bloated, but my blood sugar soared high, and it took the better portion of a day to get it down in a normal, healthy range. I wanted to kick myself in the pants. I was so mad at myself! The pizza was SO NOT WORTH IT!
At my wedding earlier this month, I was proud of myself for not having any gluten free cake at my own wedding! I had shredded meat and veggies, and for drinks all I had were several bottles of water. No alcohol! I’ve never viewed myself as disciplined and sticking to things is hard for me. But if you have ever heard the phrase “sick and tired of being sick and tired” then let’s just say that’s where I am at right now, and that mentality has helped me to stick to a diet that improves my health and gives me energy and clear skin.
Now, I am NO expert on Paleo, AIP diet, autoimmune diseases or anything else, so please don’t think I am handing out advice and saying that YOU should follow this way of eating. I am only sharing my own personal experience with you on my blog. Your situation is your own and you have to make those decisions for yourself.
Nowadays, life is good. I have a great job at a small firm 8 minutes from my house (exactly what I was looking for!) I am married to someone who is very supportive of me and my many autoimmune diseases, food allergies and chemical allergies. He loves me very much. (Again, exactly what I was looking for!) I still enjoy daily yoga and meditation practices, which helps me manage stress and anxiety. I take my time cooking and enjoy the process of putting lots of love and care into my food. And of course, I still spend lots of time every day with my very special dog, Bella, whom I hope will be here for years to come.
If any of you know of other autoimmune disease or AIP blogs or YouTube channels, please let me know!
Monday, May 26, 2014
Another trip
I am back home after a long weekend getaway to a cabin in the woods. It was a relaxing weekend with great weather. I enjoyed spending time in the sun by the lake, being out in nature, reading, relaxing. My return home is only brief; I am here for one day before I head out on a 9.5 hour road trip. I’m driving across the Midwest, just me and my dog Bella, to visit my family. Also, my youngest cousin is graduating from high school and I am looking forward to attending his graduation party.
For most people, this trip would not be a big deal. It is a pretty straight drive, lots of scenic country. And in the past, for me, it also was not a big deal. I have always enjoyed road trips. But all that changed when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, and later that year, celiac disease. Now the trip is a very big deal and requires A LOT of planning. Firstly, one of the most dangerous situations for a type 1 diabetic to be in is being the driver on a long distance road trip. This is not my opinion; this is what I was told by my endocrinologist, and I have also read in my diabetes books. There are many factors that affect diabetes- sitting for too long, heat from the sun beating down on you through your car window, managing food, sleep deprivation, stress, and also trying to regularly check your blood sugar during the drive. Not to mention, driving alone, if I were to have a low blood sugar episode, there would be no one to help me. In fact, there is a stretch that I drive that is so remote that not only are there no homes, gas stations or civilization, but there is also no cell phone reception. So if I were to run into trouble, I’d have to hope another motorist would stop to help.
Additionally, being celiac makes it essentially impossible for me to stop for a bite to eat along the way. That's okay, though. I save money (and eat better!) by bringing a cooler and packing healthy snacks that are gluten free, such as hard boiled eggs, homemade tuna salad, and gluten free turkey sticks. The only issue is that the cooler does not keep food cool the entire 9 hours, so I must bring some food that does not require refrigeration that I can eat later on in the drive. I started purchasing Go Picnic’s gluten free boxes, as they are shelf-stable and have a nice mix of finger foods I can eat while driving. I also bring plenty of fruits, nuts, juice boxes and glucose tabs to treat low blood sugars, and plenty of water.
The goal on the drive is to maintain stable blood sugars that will keep me safe while driving- not to high and definitely not too low, stay hydrated, stay AWAKE driving by myself, and stay nourished with good food. I do not drink caffeine, never have been a caffeine drinker, so I rely solely on getting adequate sleep and taking good care of my health to keep me awake and alert. Caffeine is a drug that I’ve seen too many (or should I say MOST) friends become addicted to and they rely on it to get them through the day. I have never wanted to follow that path, so I stay away from it.
I am looking forward to a safe and fun trip! I will have loved ones calling me along the way to check in, and my sweet dog Bella is good company. I also had my oil changed, my drive belts changed, and my car checked by the dealership to make sure it’s good to go for the long 9 hour drive.
I’ll be staying with my mom when I arrive at my destination, and one thing I won’t have to worry about at her place is cross-contamination with gluten. My mom is ALSO celiac. She was diagnosed by an endoscopy a year and a half after me. So her house is 100% gluten free also. This makes life easier, as I do not have to pack pans and cooking equipment like I normally have to if I stayed elsewhere. She is not dairy free, nor does she follow a Paleo diet like I do, so I generally do pick up some of my own foods to prepare while I am there. This time, I am bringing my Make Ahead Paleo cookbook (by Tammy Credicott) so I will have some yummy, easy recipes to prepare during my stay. I know my family will like the food, as well. Her recipes are quite good. My current favorite is her Chicken with Balsamic “Cream” Sauce and Mushrooms recipe. OMGoodness, it is so darn good.
I’ll blog more once I arrive. Until next time!
For most people, this trip would not be a big deal. It is a pretty straight drive, lots of scenic country. And in the past, for me, it also was not a big deal. I have always enjoyed road trips. But all that changed when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, and later that year, celiac disease. Now the trip is a very big deal and requires A LOT of planning. Firstly, one of the most dangerous situations for a type 1 diabetic to be in is being the driver on a long distance road trip. This is not my opinion; this is what I was told by my endocrinologist, and I have also read in my diabetes books. There are many factors that affect diabetes- sitting for too long, heat from the sun beating down on you through your car window, managing food, sleep deprivation, stress, and also trying to regularly check your blood sugar during the drive. Not to mention, driving alone, if I were to have a low blood sugar episode, there would be no one to help me. In fact, there is a stretch that I drive that is so remote that not only are there no homes, gas stations or civilization, but there is also no cell phone reception. So if I were to run into trouble, I’d have to hope another motorist would stop to help.
Additionally, being celiac makes it essentially impossible for me to stop for a bite to eat along the way. That's okay, though. I save money (and eat better!) by bringing a cooler and packing healthy snacks that are gluten free, such as hard boiled eggs, homemade tuna salad, and gluten free turkey sticks. The only issue is that the cooler does not keep food cool the entire 9 hours, so I must bring some food that does not require refrigeration that I can eat later on in the drive. I started purchasing Go Picnic’s gluten free boxes, as they are shelf-stable and have a nice mix of finger foods I can eat while driving. I also bring plenty of fruits, nuts, juice boxes and glucose tabs to treat low blood sugars, and plenty of water.
The goal on the drive is to maintain stable blood sugars that will keep me safe while driving- not to high and definitely not too low, stay hydrated, stay AWAKE driving by myself, and stay nourished with good food. I do not drink caffeine, never have been a caffeine drinker, so I rely solely on getting adequate sleep and taking good care of my health to keep me awake and alert. Caffeine is a drug that I’ve seen too many (or should I say MOST) friends become addicted to and they rely on it to get them through the day. I have never wanted to follow that path, so I stay away from it.
I am looking forward to a safe and fun trip! I will have loved ones calling me along the way to check in, and my sweet dog Bella is good company. I also had my oil changed, my drive belts changed, and my car checked by the dealership to make sure it’s good to go for the long 9 hour drive.
I’ll be staying with my mom when I arrive at my destination, and one thing I won’t have to worry about at her place is cross-contamination with gluten. My mom is ALSO celiac. She was diagnosed by an endoscopy a year and a half after me. So her house is 100% gluten free also. This makes life easier, as I do not have to pack pans and cooking equipment like I normally have to if I stayed elsewhere. She is not dairy free, nor does she follow a Paleo diet like I do, so I generally do pick up some of my own foods to prepare while I am there. This time, I am bringing my Make Ahead Paleo cookbook (by Tammy Credicott) so I will have some yummy, easy recipes to prepare during my stay. I know my family will like the food, as well. Her recipes are quite good. My current favorite is her Chicken with Balsamic “Cream” Sauce and Mushrooms recipe. OMGoodness, it is so darn good.
I’ll blog more once I arrive. Until next time!
Friday, May 23, 2014
How this Celiac-Diabetic with severe allergies packs for a weekend getaway.
It's Memorial Day weekend, y'all. I got an invite to go up to a cabin about 2 1/2 hours out of the city, where I won't have easy access to grocery stores or pharmacies. What's a Celia-betic who is allergic to everything to do? PACK EVERYTHING, that's what.
Being celiac, I packed all my own food- after extensive meal planning for meals that will accommodate my diabetic celiac diet. I also packed all my own pans, a cutting board, spices, snacks, butter, teas, etc. Here is the menu plan I put together (which I will share with others at the cabin, of course! Too much food for one person!)
Breakfasts:
-Egg muffins (basically spinach, mushroom, eggs mixed with almond milk and a piece of bacon on top, baked in a greased muffin pan in the oven). GF, DF, Paleo. Makes 12 "muffins."
-Jones brand GF breakfast sausage
-Extra organic eggs for hard boiling or cooking, in case needed
Lunches/dinners:
-chicken in balsamic cream sauce with mushrooms (GF, Dairy Free, Paleo), from make Ahead Paleo Cookbook
-grilled hamburgers, plus my own separate ketchup and GF Canyon Ranch buns
-chicken wings for grilling, plus Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce
Sides:
-mashed cauliflower with chives (GF, DF, Paleo)
-"No-Potato" Salad- (GF, DF, Paleo), from Make Ahead Paleo cookbook
-Healthy version of broccoli salad (GF, DF, Paleo). Recipe found on www.weightandwellness.com
-sweet potato wedges wrapped in bacon and baked
-baked southwestern Mac n cheese- GF, dairy free, from godairyfree.com website
Snacks:
-almonds
-Eat Your Veggies brand chips
-blueberries
-apples
-oranges
-bananas
Desserts:
-Almond flour chocolate chip cookies (GF, DF, Paleo) from Elana Amsterdam's cookbook Almond Flour Cookbook
These foods accommodate both my celiac and diabetic needs.
Extra things:
-chip clip
-aluminum foil for grill and oven
-storage containers for extra food I want to bring home (can't use others as they are likely cross-contaminated with gluten).
-baking pan
-frying pan
-cutting board
-mixing bowl
-crockpot bag (so I can use the host's crockpot)
-cooler
I hauled the non-perishable stuff in my personalized Thirty One bags (for celiacs who have to haul a lot of stuff around, these are amazing. I own several!)
Packing for diabetes- being on an insulin pump, I packed a week's worth of pump supplies, an extra vial of insulin, a bottle of glucose tabs and a big bottle of grape juice to treat lows, and also to share with others.
Packing for allergies: because I am allergic to soap, detergent, lotions and shampoos/conditioners, I brought all my own stuff. I also brought my own linens and towels, since I can't dry off with towels that have been washed in most detergents. Here is what happens when I don't bring my own towels (see pic!) I immediately break out in burning rashes all over my body. It's awful!! Since I am allergic to sunscreen, I wear a large brimmed sun hat and limit my time in the sun, opting for more shade.
Now you can see why I upgraded my cute, small sports car to a larger vehicle- I need to haul around a lot of stuff on my trips! I pack for a family of 8, even though I'm just 1...
Anyway, my sweet dog Bella and I made it safe and sound to the cabin, and I'm writing this from the deck that overlooks the lake. So beautiful... All my hard work and planning was worth it. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Being celiac, I packed all my own food- after extensive meal planning for meals that will accommodate my diabetic celiac diet. I also packed all my own pans, a cutting board, spices, snacks, butter, teas, etc. Here is the menu plan I put together (which I will share with others at the cabin, of course! Too much food for one person!)
Breakfasts:
-Egg muffins (basically spinach, mushroom, eggs mixed with almond milk and a piece of bacon on top, baked in a greased muffin pan in the oven). GF, DF, Paleo. Makes 12 "muffins."
-Jones brand GF breakfast sausage
-Extra organic eggs for hard boiling or cooking, in case needed
Lunches/dinners:
-chicken in balsamic cream sauce with mushrooms (GF, Dairy Free, Paleo), from make Ahead Paleo Cookbook
-grilled hamburgers, plus my own separate ketchup and GF Canyon Ranch buns
-chicken wings for grilling, plus Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce
Sides:
-mashed cauliflower with chives (GF, DF, Paleo)
-"No-Potato" Salad- (GF, DF, Paleo), from Make Ahead Paleo cookbook
-Healthy version of broccoli salad (GF, DF, Paleo). Recipe found on www.weightandwellness.com
-sweet potato wedges wrapped in bacon and baked
-baked southwestern Mac n cheese- GF, dairy free, from godairyfree.com website
Snacks:
-almonds
-Eat Your Veggies brand chips
-blueberries
-apples
-oranges
-bananas
Desserts:
-Almond flour chocolate chip cookies (GF, DF, Paleo) from Elana Amsterdam's cookbook Almond Flour Cookbook
These foods accommodate both my celiac and diabetic needs.
Extra things:
-chip clip
-aluminum foil for grill and oven
-storage containers for extra food I want to bring home (can't use others as they are likely cross-contaminated with gluten).
-baking pan
-frying pan
-cutting board
-mixing bowl
-crockpot bag (so I can use the host's crockpot)
-cooler
I hauled the non-perishable stuff in my personalized Thirty One bags (for celiacs who have to haul a lot of stuff around, these are amazing. I own several!)
Packing for diabetes- being on an insulin pump, I packed a week's worth of pump supplies, an extra vial of insulin, a bottle of glucose tabs and a big bottle of grape juice to treat lows, and also to share with others.
Packing for allergies: because I am allergic to soap, detergent, lotions and shampoos/conditioners, I brought all my own stuff. I also brought my own linens and towels, since I can't dry off with towels that have been washed in most detergents. Here is what happens when I don't bring my own towels (see pic!) I immediately break out in burning rashes all over my body. It's awful!! Since I am allergic to sunscreen, I wear a large brimmed sun hat and limit my time in the sun, opting for more shade.
Now you can see why I upgraded my cute, small sports car to a larger vehicle- I need to haul around a lot of stuff on my trips! I pack for a family of 8, even though I'm just 1...
Anyway, my sweet dog Bella and I made it safe and sound to the cabin, and I'm writing this from the deck that overlooks the lake. So beautiful... All my hard work and planning was worth it. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Saturday, April 19, 2014
socially uncomfortable gluten free situations.
BEING GLUTEN FREE AIN'T EZ.
It's at certain times of the year that my anxiety around having celiac disease flairs up. It is usually around all holidays. A bit of panic arises in me when I receive an invite to a birthday party, or a dinner party, too. It is hard to always maneuver through food situations when you can't eat what everyone else is eating.
I'm a tough celiac chick. I've managed my way through several food situations, including getting glutened at restaurants that have assured me an understanding of gluten free food prep.
Here are a few uncomfortable situations that I have found myself in just in the past year:
1. A host of a dinner party assured me the crackers in the bowl were gluten free. I didn't want her to think I didn't trust her, but I DIDN'T TRUST HER. I asked to see the box they came in, only to see they were the "Made with Brown Rice" Triscuits that, right on the label, stated "CONTAINS WHEAT."
2. The same host, at a different party, made a batch of "gluten free" pasta salad, which I found out contained a brand of non-gluten free bacon.
3. A woman i had never met before sitting across from me at a dinner party called me out in front of a large table of people on my "so-called Celiac Disease," saying if it really existed then how come no one had ever head of it before recently? She also continued on to say it was a load of sh*t diagnosis that doctors just made up and that she didn't believe for one second that someone couldn't eat wheat.
4. Out with my date and his family at a fancy dinner establishment that advertises their gluten-free menu and safe food prep practices, and after advising the host, waitress AND the manager on duty of my medically necessary gluten free diet, I found a piece of regular spiral pasta in my steamed broccoli. (This restaurant doesn't offer gluten free pasta). When the manager came to our table to discuss the issue, the manager explained that the same strainer was used to strain my broccoli that they use for their gluten-filled pasta. Not only did the manager refuse to take the meal off the bill (he offered me a free dessert), but my date's father DEFENDED the manager out loud, agreeing with him that it was "no big deal," when the manager and I were talking. (This was at BONFIRE restaurant in Eagan, MN for all the locals who are wondering).
5. An acquaintance of mine, who eats gluten free occasionally by choice, surprised me with a flourless gluten free chocolate cake. Nervous, I went over every ingredient in the recipe with her to make sure it was truly gluten free. Suspicious by the white flour-looking substance around the side, she advised me she used the nonstick spray, Pam with Flour, to spray the pan. Luckily, I caught it before eating it.
6. I took a friend out for her birthday, but told her that I had to pick the restaurant. I ALWAYS HAVE TO PICK THE RESTAURANT.
These are just a few examples of why it is so difficult to have celiac disease. Celiac disease depends on the details- what spray oil was used, were the pans/cutting boards/spatulas/colander cross-contaminated? Have I sufficiently grilled the restaurant manager on their food prep practices and ingredients? It is difficult because well-intentioned people will inadvertently gluten you. Restaurants that advertise gluten free menus will gluten you. It makes for some awkward social situations, especially when you are not among close family and friends who understand.
Of the three autoimmune diseases I have- type 1 diabetes, grave's disease, and celiac disease, it is the one that gets taken the LEAST seriously by others.
So to my other celiac disease peeps out there, here is a big virtual hug before the upcoming holiday meals. May you stay safe and healthy!
It's at certain times of the year that my anxiety around having celiac disease flairs up. It is usually around all holidays. A bit of panic arises in me when I receive an invite to a birthday party, or a dinner party, too. It is hard to always maneuver through food situations when you can't eat what everyone else is eating.
I'm a tough celiac chick. I've managed my way through several food situations, including getting glutened at restaurants that have assured me an understanding of gluten free food prep.
Here are a few uncomfortable situations that I have found myself in just in the past year:
1. A host of a dinner party assured me the crackers in the bowl were gluten free. I didn't want her to think I didn't trust her, but I DIDN'T TRUST HER. I asked to see the box they came in, only to see they were the "Made with Brown Rice" Triscuits that, right on the label, stated "CONTAINS WHEAT."
2. The same host, at a different party, made a batch of "gluten free" pasta salad, which I found out contained a brand of non-gluten free bacon.
3. A woman i had never met before sitting across from me at a dinner party called me out in front of a large table of people on my "so-called Celiac Disease," saying if it really existed then how come no one had ever head of it before recently? She also continued on to say it was a load of sh*t diagnosis that doctors just made up and that she didn't believe for one second that someone couldn't eat wheat.
4. Out with my date and his family at a fancy dinner establishment that advertises their gluten-free menu and safe food prep practices, and after advising the host, waitress AND the manager on duty of my medically necessary gluten free diet, I found a piece of regular spiral pasta in my steamed broccoli. (This restaurant doesn't offer gluten free pasta). When the manager came to our table to discuss the issue, the manager explained that the same strainer was used to strain my broccoli that they use for their gluten-filled pasta. Not only did the manager refuse to take the meal off the bill (he offered me a free dessert), but my date's father DEFENDED the manager out loud, agreeing with him that it was "no big deal," when the manager and I were talking. (This was at BONFIRE restaurant in Eagan, MN for all the locals who are wondering).
5. An acquaintance of mine, who eats gluten free occasionally by choice, surprised me with a flourless gluten free chocolate cake. Nervous, I went over every ingredient in the recipe with her to make sure it was truly gluten free. Suspicious by the white flour-looking substance around the side, she advised me she used the nonstick spray, Pam with Flour, to spray the pan. Luckily, I caught it before eating it.
6. I took a friend out for her birthday, but told her that I had to pick the restaurant. I ALWAYS HAVE TO PICK THE RESTAURANT.
These are just a few examples of why it is so difficult to have celiac disease. Celiac disease depends on the details- what spray oil was used, were the pans/cutting boards/spatulas/colander cross-contaminated? Have I sufficiently grilled the restaurant manager on their food prep practices and ingredients? It is difficult because well-intentioned people will inadvertently gluten you. Restaurants that advertise gluten free menus will gluten you. It makes for some awkward social situations, especially when you are not among close family and friends who understand.
Of the three autoimmune diseases I have- type 1 diabetes, grave's disease, and celiac disease, it is the one that gets taken the LEAST seriously by others.
So to my other celiac disease peeps out there, here is a big virtual hug before the upcoming holiday meals. May you stay safe and healthy!
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Managing Stress with Autoimmune Diseases.
I am in a constant state of improvement. Whatever I'm doing, I want to do it better. Whether I'm working, cleaning, eating, or managing autoimmune diseases, I look for ways to do things smarter and more efficiently. This can become a very stressful mindset when you are trying to manage diseases that are not easily managed and that do not have a rule book you can follow. When things don't turn out the way I want them to, I blame myself, feeling I wasn't paying enough attention or making something a priority when I should have. Needless to say, my stress levels are always running on high. Stress isn't good for anyone; but it is even worse for someone who already has 3 autoimmune diseases. One of the triggers for auto immune is stress. I also know that the body is not meant to live in a constant state of stress, to always live in the fire, yet I can't seem to get myself out.
I've tried various ways to reduce my stress, including reading, walking, and I tried meditation, which seemed impossible for me because I could not stop my anxious mind from wandering. Then one of my providers recommended a program through the University of Minnesota, called the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. It is based on the teachings of Jon Kabat Zinn and began at the Univ of Massachusetts. It is an 8-week intensive course, once a week for 2.5 hours and one weekend retreat, with daily "homework" exercises that are about 1 hour in length. The basis of the class is that there are stressors in your life that will never go away (e.g., chronic diseases or injuries, work life and relationships), but changing your thinking can greatly improve your disease, your outlook, and how you care for yourself. It can change how you respond to stressful situations or even daily stress. It is a scientifically-based class, proven to improve a lot of health conditions (improve, not cure). As Jon Kabat Zinn wrote, "As long as you are breathing, there is more right with you than wrong with you." Isn't that a beautiful way to view yourself and your health?
It is very hard to change your thinking and retrain your brain. It is not simply "just doing it." It requires daily mind exercises to strengthen the brain, just as you need to exercise to strengthen muscles in your body. Although these exercises are mind-based, they are actually quite challenging. Trying to learn it from different books has not been helpful for me; having an instructor-led class has been a whole different story.
I have completed 2 weeks of the program and already I feel different. I am doing the daily exercises and I'm using the techniques in daily activities. I have experienced measurable improvements in my health already. Lower blood sugars which has resulted in lowering of my basal rates, and my blood pressure was considerably lower at my dr appointment yesterday (100/60). But most of all, my mind is changing how it thinks and reacts to daily stress. I am using a non-judgmental awareness throughout my day.
The book we are reading, "Full Catastrophe Living- Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain and Illness" by Jon Kabat Zinn is an amazing book with great insight. It demonstrates for me just how powerful the mind is and that how we think can greatly improve or compromise our health.
There is a workbook, with CDs, as well.
I set up my meditation and yoga space in my little home office. I keep my exercise mat with a little pillow ready for my daily practices. You don't need a separate room dedicated to this space; you can set up shop anywhere, even in your living room or bedroom. Basically wherever you can fit a yoga mat or blanket.
Here is a link to the program, if you are interested in learning more about it. If you are not in Minnesota, you can google MBSR to find a program close to your area. Most classes are in the evenings, from 6:30-9pm.
http://www.csh.umn.edu/program-areas-section/mindfulness-based-stress-reduction/mbsr-sessions/index.htm
And here is a link that talks about how this program was able to help one type 1 diabetic with her diabetes management.
http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/what-are-mind-body-therapies
You don't have to have a disease to benefit from this class. In my class of 20 people, there are more "healthy" people in the class than there are ones with illnesses. But there is an added benefit, in my opinion, for those of us who are using this class to assist in managing our health conditions and the stress that comes from having a health condition.
I am excited by how much I am learning and what I will be able to do by the end of this class, and I believe this is a great complimentary care to the regular medical care I receive. I'll keep you posted!
Just a reminder, I am not a health professional and am not offering health advice. I'm just talking about my own daily experiences.
I've tried various ways to reduce my stress, including reading, walking, and I tried meditation, which seemed impossible for me because I could not stop my anxious mind from wandering. Then one of my providers recommended a program through the University of Minnesota, called the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. It is based on the teachings of Jon Kabat Zinn and began at the Univ of Massachusetts. It is an 8-week intensive course, once a week for 2.5 hours and one weekend retreat, with daily "homework" exercises that are about 1 hour in length. The basis of the class is that there are stressors in your life that will never go away (e.g., chronic diseases or injuries, work life and relationships), but changing your thinking can greatly improve your disease, your outlook, and how you care for yourself. It can change how you respond to stressful situations or even daily stress. It is a scientifically-based class, proven to improve a lot of health conditions (improve, not cure). As Jon Kabat Zinn wrote, "As long as you are breathing, there is more right with you than wrong with you." Isn't that a beautiful way to view yourself and your health?
It is very hard to change your thinking and retrain your brain. It is not simply "just doing it." It requires daily mind exercises to strengthen the brain, just as you need to exercise to strengthen muscles in your body. Although these exercises are mind-based, they are actually quite challenging. Trying to learn it from different books has not been helpful for me; having an instructor-led class has been a whole different story.
I have completed 2 weeks of the program and already I feel different. I am doing the daily exercises and I'm using the techniques in daily activities. I have experienced measurable improvements in my health already. Lower blood sugars which has resulted in lowering of my basal rates, and my blood pressure was considerably lower at my dr appointment yesterday (100/60). But most of all, my mind is changing how it thinks and reacts to daily stress. I am using a non-judgmental awareness throughout my day.
The book we are reading, "Full Catastrophe Living- Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain and Illness" by Jon Kabat Zinn is an amazing book with great insight. It demonstrates for me just how powerful the mind is and that how we think can greatly improve or compromise our health.
There is a workbook, with CDs, as well.
I set up my meditation and yoga space in my little home office. I keep my exercise mat with a little pillow ready for my daily practices. You don't need a separate room dedicated to this space; you can set up shop anywhere, even in your living room or bedroom. Basically wherever you can fit a yoga mat or blanket.
Here is a link to the program, if you are interested in learning more about it. If you are not in Minnesota, you can google MBSR to find a program close to your area. Most classes are in the evenings, from 6:30-9pm.
http://www.csh.umn.edu/program-areas-section/mindfulness-based-stress-reduction/mbsr-sessions/index.htm
And here is a link that talks about how this program was able to help one type 1 diabetic with her diabetes management.
http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/what-are-mind-body-therapies
You don't have to have a disease to benefit from this class. In my class of 20 people, there are more "healthy" people in the class than there are ones with illnesses. But there is an added benefit, in my opinion, for those of us who are using this class to assist in managing our health conditions and the stress that comes from having a health condition.
I am excited by how much I am learning and what I will be able to do by the end of this class, and I believe this is a great complimentary care to the regular medical care I receive. I'll keep you posted!
Just a reminder, I am not a health professional and am not offering health advice. I'm just talking about my own daily experiences.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Switching to a different pump.
**Some of this info is repetitive to my previous post- but it's relevant to this post's topic so bear with me. **
I've been having some weird pancreatic functioning the last few days. You might think that's weird to say, since I have type 1 diabetes. But it is true. I've suspected for a while now that my own pancreas was still producing insulin, as I was having many unexplained low blood sugars. The last two days, I've had insulin delivery suspended most of this time and even though I ate normal (carbs and all), I've had down arrows on my CGM and low blood sugars. At my last endocrinologist appointment on St. Patricks day, my suspicion was confirmed. My c-peptide test showed I am still making insulin. I am one of those strange type 1s that makes enough insulin that if I only ate very small amount of carbs, my pancreas would likely be able to make enough insulin to cover it on its own. It would have to be a very small amount of carbs though. My physician said it might still be the "honeymoon phase," but that is pretty rare to still have 4 years after diagnosis. It is possible I may have this remaining functioning forever, or I might not. Only time will tell.
I received my new black Dexcom CGM today. My previous one is out of warranty. It was pink. I liked the pink, but I didn't like that at work, people would mistake it for a game or an iPod. I decided that the next one I got would be plain black.
In pump news, I am planning to switch from the Omnipod to the Animas Ping. My insurance is processing and reviewing the prior authorization request right now, so fingers crossed.
Here are the answers to a few questions I've been asked:
1. Why are you switching?
Because after OmniPod released its updated model last year, replacing the previous model, I've had nothing but problems with the new one. I know some people that have the OmniPod have not had issues. But that is not the case for me. I've had 14 documented pod failures since last fall, 7 of them have been this year. It has become a source of stress for me and I feel it is unreliable. After many calls placed to the company (after each pod failure), they were never able to help me. They would replace the defective pod but not able to explain why it continued to fail all the time. And I was losing a lot of insulin as a result of the pod failures. After discussing with my endo last month, he advised me most of his a OmniPod patients have been complaining to him about the same issue, and he advised me to consider switching to a different pump. We set up an appointment with the CDE to go over my options.
2. Why the Animas Ping?
I looked at the newest Medtronic release, the T-Slim and the Animas Ping. My physician stated he does not like the new Medtronic pump, as he says the built in CGM is not good. He said it reads inaccurately often. He recommended either the T-Slim or the Ping. The T-Slim was neat, but not for me. I didn't like the touch screen, nor the number of confirmation screens you have to go through to complete an action. I also didn't like that it didn't have a remote control to bolus with (like the Ping does). So every time when I would want to bolus or anything, I'd have to pull the pump from wherever it was strapped (leg strap for when wearing a dress or in bra). With the Ping I would be able to bolus from the glucose meter, not having to touch the actual pump. But the big deciding factor for me was that the new Ping/Dexcom CGM integrated pump is supposed to come out this year (allegedly) in the U.S. So I am excited about this technology.
Since I have already met my out of pocket for 2014, it is a good time to get the new pump. So fingers crossed the PA flies through insurance with no problems.
So that's the latest in the techy stuff.
I've got more to talk about but I'll save it for the next post.
I've been having some weird pancreatic functioning the last few days. You might think that's weird to say, since I have type 1 diabetes. But it is true. I've suspected for a while now that my own pancreas was still producing insulin, as I was having many unexplained low blood sugars. The last two days, I've had insulin delivery suspended most of this time and even though I ate normal (carbs and all), I've had down arrows on my CGM and low blood sugars. At my last endocrinologist appointment on St. Patricks day, my suspicion was confirmed. My c-peptide test showed I am still making insulin. I am one of those strange type 1s that makes enough insulin that if I only ate very small amount of carbs, my pancreas would likely be able to make enough insulin to cover it on its own. It would have to be a very small amount of carbs though. My physician said it might still be the "honeymoon phase," but that is pretty rare to still have 4 years after diagnosis. It is possible I may have this remaining functioning forever, or I might not. Only time will tell.
I received my new black Dexcom CGM today. My previous one is out of warranty. It was pink. I liked the pink, but I didn't like that at work, people would mistake it for a game or an iPod. I decided that the next one I got would be plain black.
In pump news, I am planning to switch from the Omnipod to the Animas Ping. My insurance is processing and reviewing the prior authorization request right now, so fingers crossed.
Here are the answers to a few questions I've been asked:
1. Why are you switching?
Because after OmniPod released its updated model last year, replacing the previous model, I've had nothing but problems with the new one. I know some people that have the OmniPod have not had issues. But that is not the case for me. I've had 14 documented pod failures since last fall, 7 of them have been this year. It has become a source of stress for me and I feel it is unreliable. After many calls placed to the company (after each pod failure), they were never able to help me. They would replace the defective pod but not able to explain why it continued to fail all the time. And I was losing a lot of insulin as a result of the pod failures. After discussing with my endo last month, he advised me most of his a OmniPod patients have been complaining to him about the same issue, and he advised me to consider switching to a different pump. We set up an appointment with the CDE to go over my options.
2. Why the Animas Ping?
I looked at the newest Medtronic release, the T-Slim and the Animas Ping. My physician stated he does not like the new Medtronic pump, as he says the built in CGM is not good. He said it reads inaccurately often. He recommended either the T-Slim or the Ping. The T-Slim was neat, but not for me. I didn't like the touch screen, nor the number of confirmation screens you have to go through to complete an action. I also didn't like that it didn't have a remote control to bolus with (like the Ping does). So every time when I would want to bolus or anything, I'd have to pull the pump from wherever it was strapped (leg strap for when wearing a dress or in bra). With the Ping I would be able to bolus from the glucose meter, not having to touch the actual pump. But the big deciding factor for me was that the new Ping/Dexcom CGM integrated pump is supposed to come out this year (allegedly) in the U.S. So I am excited about this technology.
Since I have already met my out of pocket for 2014, it is a good time to get the new pump. So fingers crossed the PA flies through insurance with no problems.
So that's the latest in the techy stuff.
I've got more to talk about but I'll save it for the next post.
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