Panic

*Christmas is in a few weeks and I'm not even close to being ready. I finally came up with the dinner menu today thanks to All Recipes.

*I am making an early resolution, I will be spending a lot less time on social media. I'm not deleting any accounts at this time. There are many people I would like to stay in contact with, I just hate all the racist idiots taking over. It's tough to keep up with world events without coming across complete nonsense.

*Soaps used to be such a fun and relaxing way to spend a few moments at the end of the day. Not anymore. The writers have such low opinions of the viewers it's insulting to watch. I think I'm going to back to telenovelas.

*I'm watching companies and entertainers closely. Who ever is remaining quiet during this time of unrest will not get any support from me. #blacklivesmatter

*Right now I'm not Interested in dating. I have to get healthy. My number one priority is surviving. Plus I feel like I look a mess. I'm super pale and blotchy. My Lupus-like rash is back with a vengeance. I don't even feel sexy.

*Mi amiga is looking at dresses from one of my favorite designers!! She is going to be a beautiful bride.

*I hope all of you are getting ready for the holidays and are healthy and happy. Please sprinkle a little extra joy my way.

xxoo,
Monica

Going to the Chapel...

One of my best friends is getting married next year!! She just announced her engagement and I am so excited. I feel like I'm getting married. I'm incredibly happy for her and I'm honored to be helping her out during this wonderful time of her life.

This is going to be a beautiful wedding. I'll keep you posted.

Joyful,
Monica

Frozen

-Every state in the United States has temperatures at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit today. I love cold weather so this makes me happy.

-Make sure you take care of your kidneys. When something goes wrong with them the pain is terrible. Awful. Go to the doctor as soon as you experience symptoms.

-I can't believe Thanksgiving is next week. Where has 2014 gone?!?

-I hope there will be peaceful protests around the world after the grand jury announces its decision in Ferguson, MO.

-Physical therapy is helping, it's painful but helping.

-The fat free pumpkin muffin/bread recipe was good, but not holiday worthy.

-I miss mi hija. So happy I get to see her soon!

Abrazos,
Monica

So sick.

I ate a fast food hamburger for lunch yesterday. It was my first since my gallbladder was removed in May. I wish I had a time machine to go back. I would have stopped myself.

Fat has to stay out of my life.

I really hoped I would have been part of the 75% that have no issues with food after having the surgery. Not so.

I want to feel better. I want to be me again. I am determined to have a healthy and happy Holiday season!

So tired,
Monica

Daylight Savings Time

I love the time of the year when we turn our clocks back. The sun is so pretty in the morning and it gets dark around the time I'm getting ready for bed. The world is on my time schedule. It feels fantastic!

I'm seeing a new rheumatologist at the beginning of 2015. She's supposed to be the best. There is actually a waiting list to become a new patient. I have to keep a symptom diary to share at my first appointment. Writing down every thing that is wrong with me is more difficult than I imagined. It is helpful because I am starting to see a pattern. I will be making serious changes soon.

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching. I found a recipe for fat free pumpkin bread. I plan on making a loaf this week so I can test it out before I serve it to my family. I hope it's delicious. If it's not I have time to come up with a plan B.

xxoo,

Monica 

Life in October

I began physical therapy today. I am sore, but know that pain brings change.

Mi hija gave me a product called "Rapid Lash". Chemo treatments made my eyelashes fall out. I've been using Rapid Lash for almost a year and my eyelashes are back and they look amazing. I still like wearing false lashes, but I'm only going to wear them when I want to look extra special. Gracias Brianna :).

Lack of estrogen es no bueno. Hormones are so important. My GYN is working with me to fix the problem. Lack of hormones causes bladder and kidney issues. If you can avoid having a hysterectomy do so. I can't say this enough. 

I finally found a new rheumatologist. This doctor comes highly recommended. So much so my appointment isn't until February. That was the first available! I hope good things come to those who wait.

ABC has two incredibly funny new TV shows, "Blackish" and "Cristela". So happy to see such diversity on a major network. "Modern Family" is still my absolute favorite comedy show. This season has been perfection. It's nice to take a break from all the stress and enjoy something pleasant.

Abrazos,

Monica 

Tumblr!

The fabulous wedding social networking experiment "Wed Over Heels" comes to an end December 31, 2014. I'll miss posting on WOH, so I've created an account on Tumblr  .

Here is a sneak peek of the stunning content coming soon...

Liv Hart's styled shoot via Bridal Musings. Photos by Laura Gordon Photography.

xxoo,

Monica 

Heaven is Calling

So very tired,
Monica

Take Your Pick

There are a number of critical issues in the world lately...

*Ferguson October

*Hong Kong

*Militarized Police

*Ebola

*Influenza

*Bullying

*Climate Change

*Breast Cancer Awareness

*Domestic Violence

You may not have the latest news on these issues if you are relying on the broadcast media. Twitter and Reddit have updated coverage of what is going on.

Please research the issues that are close to your heart. Take a stand, do what you can to help. The world needs you.

Praying,
Monica

Good Riddance!

Life is too short to deal with judgmental and unstable people. Cleaning out my social media accounts feels great.

Not everyone who comes in your life is meant to stay. This applies to people you meet in real life and online.

The company you keep is a reflection of who you really are deep down inside. The people in your life should uplift you and give off positive energy. People who are constantly angry are draining. People who preach hate and intolerance are part of the problem.

Take a moment and look around at the people you have in your circle. Maybe it's time for you to make a few changes as well.

Abrazos,
Monica

True...

xxoo,

Monica