To begin, I finally had the nuclear stress test. Never knew it existed. The difference between this stress test and the regular test is that you are given some radioactive material IV and pictures are taken of it traveling through the heart. My appointment was for 8:45 am. I left at 12:45. Most of the time was spent waiting. The 30 minute wait between certain stages of the test became 45 – 60 minutes. I thought this test was being done to determine what was happening with my leaky valves. It wasn’t! Actually, it was performed to rule out other damage to my heart. Although the test results revealed a normal heart, no obstructions, pumping normal amount of blood, etc. , my major concern was the valves. How can you say the heart is normal with leaky valves? I plan to call the cardiologist tomorrow.

Except for delays at both airports meaning a late arrival to Florida, our flight was uneventful. There was some turbulence over N.C. but nothing bad. Belle slept the whole way and was very excited when she saw where we were. One thing happened going through security. I have to take Belle out of her carrier and hold her. We set off the alarm 3 times. There was no reason. I didn’t have anything on to set it off. Finally, a TSA person took Belle and I had to have a pat down. The agent explained what she was going to do. I’ve been patted down before but this was a little different. More thorough! They absolutely suspected me of something. I commented why would they suspect me. The one doing the pat down said something about slightly baggy pants. When she finished, she said something to one of the other agents. Whatever he said, she asked if he wanted her to do it again. He waved me through. Very strange!

In the morning, Belle and I went to Mo’s for breakfast. We sat outside and she was so good. During the month we were away, the menu and prices changed. Prices went up and items that would have normally been included were extra. For example a breakfast wrap which I always ordered came with Swiss cheese. Now, $2.00 extra. I paid $23.00 without tip for my breakfast. Won’t be going back there as often!

I called to restart my subscription to the Herald. I had put it on vacation. Imagine my surprise when they told me my subscription had been canceled for lack of activity. Seems they have a new policy. They keep charging you when you go on vacation. I’ve never heard of such a thing. I was on the phone for 45 minutes arguing. Finally, they agreed to honor my subscription for this visit ONLY!

I took my wedding ring and mother’s ring off to apply Vaseline to my hands overnight. Now, I can’t get either one on again. My knuckles are bigger. I assume from some arthritis. I keep feeling my fingers for the rings. I decided to wear my mother’s, mother’s ring. The picture below doesn’t do it justice. It’s a beautiful ring!

Praying we all have a healthy new year! ❤️(Auntie) Beverly