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Benson Museum
Visitors will find a nice variety of items ranging from metates and manos to sewing machines and a horsedrawn school bus for their viewing pleasure. The museum is staffed by volunteers. Members of the Historical Society will be glad to help you with research in the Benson area.
180 S San Pedro St, Benson, AZ 85602 | (520) 586-3134 | Website
Benson Visitor's Center
Benson hosts a beautiful replica of the original train depot - built over a century ago. It is now home to the Visitor's Center. There you can sit down as Engineer at the replica AAR Control Stand and operate the Center's "G" Scale train around 96 feet of track. You can even earn a souvenir Benson Train Engineer Certificate! It's better than Xbox anyday.
249 E 4th St, Benson AZ 85602 | (520) 586-4293 | Website
Bisbee Historical Tours
This site is centrally located to the Old Bisbee business district in a building known as the Copper Queen Convention Center. 4 different tours address different tastes and lifestyles. Three of our tours are walking tours that are giving during the day. These tours cover the history of the area and are giving in two different lengths, 45 minutes and 90 minutes. The fourth tour is offered at night and is done in cooperation with The Bisbee Tour Company. This tour is our Haunted History Tour which is intended for those interested in the paranormal. The Haunted tour is based on Francine Powers' book Mi Reina, Don't Be Afraid, giving our guests a truly unique experience straight from the person who experienced the paranormal.
No. 2 Copper Queen Plaza, Bisbee, AZ 85603 | (520) 559-1448 | Website
Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum
With a history deserving of National Landmark status, it's only fitting that Bisbee's past be captured and reflected in a museum like no other. The Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum recently joined forces with the Smithsonian's Affiliation Program. Once known as The Queen of the Copper Camps, Bisbee is nestled among the Mule Mountains and is renowned for its diverse minerals and wealth of copper. Although its mines closed in the 70s, the small town's legacy has long been preserved not only in its architecture and mining landscape, but in a museum that has welcomed, educated and entertained more than a half-million visitors ever since. Featured among its exhibits is "Bisbee: Urban Outpost on the Frontier," an in-depth look at the depths - and heights - to which miners and settlers went to carve a community and a living out of rock.
No. 5 Copper Queen Plaza, Bisbee, AZ 85603 | (520)432-7071 | Website
Bisbee Restoration Museum
Operated by the Bisbee Restoration Association this free museum is housed in the Fair Store building located on Bisbee's historic Main Street. The museum contains numerous items connected with the community's early history of mining and ranching. A gift shop is located on the main floor.
37 Main St, Bisbee, AZ 85603 | (520) 249-5742 | More Information
Brown Canyon Ranch
Step back to the turn of the 20th Century with a visit to Brown Canyon Ranch. First permanently occupied by John Thomas Brown and his family around 1800, the property passed through many hands until James and Tom Haverty built the ranch house sometime between 1905 and 1907. The adobe ranch house, storeroom, and corrals provide a glimpse of ranch life in the early days. The windmill still pumps water into a storage tank, and the pond, with its beautiful trees and lush vegetation, provides a home to an endangered species of frog. Trails lead from the ranch to Brown Canyon and connect with other trails throughout the National Forest. Allow 2 hours.
Directions: Hwy 92 South 6 miles to Ramsey Canyon Road; west (right) on Ramsey Canyon Road; continue on Ramsey Canyon Road past Calle Metate to reach a dirt parking area on the right; turn into the parking area, then follow the dirt road to the ranch. | (800)288-3861 or (520)439-6400 (BLM) | Website
Fairbank Historic Townsite
Fairbank was originally built in 1881 as a railroad stop near Tombstone. You can now enjoy a self-guided tour that reveals one of the area's most complete ghost towns with buildings, including the post office, a general store, small homes, a schoolhouse and of course, the ever-present saloon, as well as the foundation of a warehouse and the Montezuma Hotel. The Fairbank one-room schoolhouse has been restored and serves as a museum and gift shop, staffed by volunteers on weekends. Still in use until 1944, former students and teachers helped with the building's historical accuracy and restoration. The Fairbank Cemetery is just a short hike from the townsite. Allow 1–2 hours.
Directions: Hwy 90 North 13 miles to Hwy 82; turn east (right) on Hwy 82, 10 miles; entrance to the north (left). | (800)288-3861 or (520)439-6400 (BLM) | Website
Boothill Graveyard
There are many graveyards in the West called Boot Hill or Boothill, but the most notable is in Tombstone. It's the resting place of the three cattle rustlers (Frank and Tom McLaury, and Billy Clanton) involved in the infamous OK Corral shootout. Called "The Tombstone Cemetery," it was the burial place for the town's first pioneers and was used as such until sometime around 1884, when the present plot was opened as a burial place. For years after this, Boothill was spoken of as the "old cemetery." It lay neglected and much of the old cemetery had gone back to nature. Years of research and hard work by interested citizens of the town have helped to preserve the main part of the cemetery as you see it today. Because of the many violent deaths of the early days, the cemetery became known as Boothill Graveyard. Buried here are outlaws with their victims, suicides, and hangings, legal and otherwise, along with the hardy citizens and refined element of Tombstone's first days. So much of the good and so much of the bad of early Tombstone lies buried here, and over the graves of both is growing. In compiling this list, each history has been checked with all available sources of information, including relatives, old residents and the Arizona Historical Society records.
408 Arizona 80, Tombstone, AZ 85638 | Open Daily 8 AM - 6 PM | Website
Get a glimpse of the true Old West at Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park. Built in 1882 in the shape of a Roman cross, the two-story Victorian structure once housed the offices of the sheriff, recorder, treasurer, board of supervisors, jail, and courtrooms of Cochise County. Today, the 12,000 square foot courthouse is a museum filled with the glitter and guns of those who tamed the territory. Exhibits portray the authentic history of Tombstone as a frontier silver mining boomtown. Learn about miners, cattlemen and pioneers, and see a reproduction of the courtroom and sheriff's office. Displays include a tax license for operating a brothel and an invitation to a hanging. A replica of the gallows in the courtyard represents where seven men were hanged. The park includes the museum, plus exhibits, a gift shop, restrooms, and shaded picnic areas.
223 E Toughnut St, Tombstone, AZ 85638 | (520)457-3311 | Website
Fort Bowie National Historic Site
Fort Bowie was established in 1862 after a series of engagements with the Chiricahua Apaches, the most violent of which was the Battle of Apache Pass in July 1862. The fort was named in honor of Colonel George Washington Bowie commander of the 5th Regiment California Volunteer Infantry who first established the fort. Fort Bowie was the combat post of the southwest in the Apache wars of the 1860's ending in 1872. A great historical place to see, especially if you love the Old West or westerns.
Located one hour south of Willcox via Hwy 186 | Website
Railroad Avenue in Old Town Willcox
This historic district was developed from the 1880's through the 1930's with most of the building intact. You can visit the store where Geronimo shopped and the house around the corner where the Army Officer's stayed on their way to the various Forts in the area. See the saloon where Warren Earp - the brother of Wyatt Earp - was killed in a gunfight.
606 S Railroad Ave, Willcox, AZ 85643 | More Information


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Our work managing the renovation of the Bea Arthur Residence, which will provide transitional housing for 18 homeless LGBT youth, is generating a lot of press for us and our project partner, the Ali Forney Center. A DNAInfo article that gave an update on the project, and its expected completion in February, 2017, has been shared by a number of media outlets, including Broadway World article and World of Wonder.
Home » Our Work » Special Projects » Bea Arthur Residence » We've gotten a lot of press about the Bea Arthur Residence Project

subset: commoncrawl


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Lion Babe brings the fire to San Francisco
A fire starts with a spark, and for Lion Babe, it came in the form of one hot track.
Back in 2012, singer Jillian Hervey and multi-instrumentalist Lucas Goodman paired up as Lion Babe for "Treat Me Like Fire," a sensual song featuring snappy hand claps and Hervey's sexy vocals. It garnered an overnight buzz and so much interest in Lion Babe that the pair couldn't catch up.
"To put (the song) out was probably a great idea, but we didn't have any other music," Hervey said.
"We didn't anticipate how quickly the next step would come," Goodman added. "It was literally the first song we ever made, and then labels wanted an album, like right now."
Four years later, the alt-R&B outfit has finally released its debut full-length album, "Begin." Then, for good measure, it dropped another project, titled "Sun Joint," in June, with plans to bring songs from both efforts to a tour stop at the Independent in San Francisco on Tuesday, Aug. 9.
It's a whirlwind of a story for Hervey, who is the daughter of model-singer Vanessa Williams and initially wanted to be a dancer. That's actually how Hervey started working with Goodman; she was in need of original music for a dance piece when Goodman encouraged her to accompany his beats. They've been collaborating ever since.
In both "Begin" and "Sun Joint," Goodman produces beats steeped in hip-hop, electronica and dance music to create moods that ebb and flow alongside Hervey's versatile vocals. But in contrast to "Begin," which was released in February, "Sun Joint" is a brighter collection of tracks.
"There's a lot more freedom on a mixtape than on an album," Goodman said. "For this project, the moment the recordings were done, we had them out the very next week."
The single "Endless Summer" is a sun-drenched summer anthem backed by upbeat drums, sunny guitar riffs and a speedy click-clack line. But while sun and sand are the backdrop for this song, Hervey's words remain as liberating as ever: "The endless summer in my mind, it makes it easy / I'm gonna leave it all behind for you to see me."
Goodman, who also produces under the moniker Astro Raw, is an avid crate-digger and developed a keen sense for samples, taking cues from producers such as J Dilla and Flying Lotus.
Then once they got into the studio with other writers and producers, both Lucas and Hervey learned the nuances of making music: sound structure, a bridge, a pre-chorus. With more practice, they learned how to develop themes and build structurally from there.
"They're all kind of puzzle pieces, and I think that's the beauty in it," Hervey said. "It keeps it interesting because there isn't one way to do it, ever."
Channeling Erykah Badu's style and approach, Hervey makes tracks such as "Whole" and "Satisfy My Love" her own, calling forth a flittering, jazzy tenor. Other times, Hervey reveals a smoky timbre that glides across the beat, as in "Hold On."
Having a celebrity mom (Hervey is Williams' second daughter with first husband Ramon Hervey II, a manager and producer), Hervey said her mother's guidance has kept her and Lucas grounded as Lion Babe navigates the industry and growing fame.
"We never wanted to rush into anything that didn't feel right," she said. "Entering the industry, you're in meetings, building a team, fighting opinions and sorting through it all. Four years was just the length of time it took to bring it all together."
Nina Tabios is a freelance writer.
Lion Babe: 9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9. $20. The Independent, 628 Divisadero St., S.F. (415) 771-1421. www.theindepen dentsf.com


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IFA NEXT Startup Days
Waylay is a B2B software company founded in 2014 with the mission to empower organisations to realize a better ROI from their IoT investments. With Waylay, companies can move beyond a connect-and-collect approach and put IoT insights to operational use throughout the enterprise. Waylay provides a state-of-the-art IoT automation platform used by enterprises to leverage the data and analytical insights from their connected devices for improving operational processes and customer service.


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But here's a slideshow of some of the stars of the First Fifteen.
Fantastic work class.
How did you feel taking part in a global project. Do you have any favourite pictures?
Hello Room 15,
The Collaboreyes Project is a wonderful way of sharing favourite places. Having been to New Zealand and Wellington a number of times, the Cable Car was very familiar. One photo showed a Girl Guide hall. Having been a Scout, this also had meaning to me. :)
In my life there has been so many special places. It would be hard to choose. If I only considered my favourites when I have been in Australia, it would probably be on top of Mt Tarawera, in the Tongariro National Park or around Rotorua as I love the geology of volcanic areas.
Enjoy the global project. This is a great start. :)
Teacher, NSW, Australia
Dear Room 15
'Collaboreyes' - a great name for a fun-looking project. I enjoyed all the creative poses you found to be photographed in!
The photographs emphasised for me the feeling that I need to re-visit Wellington soon (I went to teachers College there years ago).
It's exciting to see your new blog emerging as a fun place to visit.
I wonder which posts have you enjoyed the most?
best wishes
Mrs McKenzie from B4
Hi Room 15
I am so proud of your contributions to Collaboreye - they are creative, show off our beautiful city, give an insight into your special places and enable you to participate as global citizens which is what you all are.
I have only lived in Wellington for five years and it is a really special place. Thank you for all your extraordinary work.
Mrs Stuart
Hi room 15,
I like the pictures you have taken, they're all very special, and different to each other. Keep up the good work.
Hi Mrs Mckenzie,
Thank you for your comment. We really appreciate the acknowledgment. We all love Wellington and found this was the best way to show off our beautiful city.We enjoy all the posts.
We hope to hear from you again soon and to hear what you're up to.
Sincerely, Room 15. :)
Hi Room 15 Commentator
I like that you have used a greeting and responded positively to Mrs McKenzie and B4 and made a link back to the original post. I also like that you encouraged Mrs McKenzie and B4 to visit again.
Please remember to leave your name in the greeting when responding by yourself so I know which star of the first fifteen to thank.
Hi Ross. I agree, the collabereyes project is quite cool. Looking at other peoples collabereyes is really interesting. Those places sound really cool and beautiful. Thank you for your kind words. Where's your favourite place in New ZealandReplyDelete
Hi Room 15 commentator
I like that you have used a greeting and have made a positive response to the comment. I also like that you used a question to keep the conversation going. Please try to remember to leave your first name somewhere in the response so we know which star of the first fifteen is replying.
Hi Room 15 welcomes quality comments from people that help push our learning forward. If you want to learn how to make a quality comment, please visit our quality commenting checklist page


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A couple from South Carolina have launched a proposed class-action lawsuit against online retailer Amazon for selling defective eclipse-viewing glasses they allege resulted in permanent vision damage.
In the lawsuit filed in Federal Court on Thursday, Charleston resident Corey Payne says that at the start of August, he bought a three-pack of what he thought were special protective glasses to view the Aug. 21 eclipse with his fiancée, Kayla Harris.
The popularity of the event had caused a rush of orders for the glasses, and the online retailer was overrun by bogus knockoffs that didn't offer the required safety features to prevent eye damage that can occur from staring at the sun during an eclipse.
Amazon later warned customers about the fakes and offered refunds, but the class action says the couple didn't get that warning before the eclipse, so wore the glasses to view it.
At no point did the couple ever look at the sun without the use of the glasses, the suit alleges.
"Later that day, both plaintiffs began to experience pain and discomfort, headaches, eye watering and other symptoms," the lawsuit alleges. "Thereafter, both plaintiffs began to see dark spots in their line of vision, suffered vision impairment, including blurriness, a central blind spot, increased sensitivity, changes in perception of color, and distorted vision. "
The couple is seeking to lead a class action on behalf of anyone else who purchased defective glasses and didn't get the warning in time.
None of the allegations have been proven in court.
As well, for the class action to proceed, a judge has to certify it.


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Jennifer (Jen) Borrelli
Jennifer began her education career in 1988 and has taught students with behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities and general education students in inclusive and separate class settings, ages kindergarten through college. She holds certifications in K-12 ESE, Elementary Education and is Reading Endorsed. Jennifer broadened her reach as an educator while serving in coaching roles as MTSS coach and as reading coach, participating in district and state writing teams for students with disabilities, and providing professional development for teachers and parents.
Jennifer's areas of focus at FDLRS include: Behavior MTSS at the school wide, classroom and individual student levels; mindfulness in education; instructional practices for students with significant cognitive disabilities; Instructional Technology and Assistive Technology.


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You can follow the discussion on How to Start a profitable Blog in 2019! without having to leave a comment. Cool, huh? Just enter your email address in the form here below and you're all set.
Hey there!
Hi there, I'm Gemma! I'm a web developer & content creator who empowers aspiring female bloggers and entrepreneurs to turn writing as a hobby into a powerful online business.


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Archive for February, 2010
It seems that the iPad is going to introduce a new way to spell check.
On an iPhone or iPod Touch, spell checking happens in two ways. When a word is spelled incorrectly, the iPhone/iPod Touch will show a single suggestion that users can accept.
The second way is the iPhone/iPod Touch shows no suggestion and the word is spelled wrong. This prompts the user to manually navigate and fix the spelling.
The … Read More
The iPad. I still can't say that name out loud without a slight chuckle. However, the more we wait for the iPad's release the more we imagine how it would be to actually use one (and if Rogers/Telus/Bell will offer a 6GB data plan). Damn you Apple, for making us wait. Anyways, we know the iPad is going to be great for internet, email, music, books, and photos to … Read More
It looks like Apple has released the iPhone OS 3.2 SDK for the iPad. What does this mean? It means there's going to be a plethora of apps available for the iPad just in time for its launch in late March. The iPad's size will mean lots of innovative apps just waiting to take advantage of multitouch on a large surface.
The iPad SDK can now be downloaded via Apple's iPhone … Read More
Early this morning, Apple globally took down their online store for updates.
A lot of speculation is expecting updated MacBook Pros, however this could also be an opportunity to release international iPad pricing, such as for Canada.
Some of the other rumors include:
– MacBook Pro upgrades with Core i5/i7
– iLife/iWork 2010
– New Mac Pros
Stay tuned…
7:20AM Update: Looks like the downtime was to update the site in Valentines Day cheer.
A recent poll by Retrevo suggests that consumer love for the iPad is dying down. With Apple's announcement of the iPad, the hype leading up to the device was incredible. Once the product was announced, many people were disappointed that the iPad's specifications did not live up to their incredible expectations. The iPad, for what it is meant to do, is going to be amazing for first time internet users–who … Read More
One of the expected, but ultimately cut, features of the iPad was a built-in iSight camera. While the soon-to-be-released iPad did not have a camera (it still could though!), it seems that a version 2.0 iPad may include such a feature.
A recent job posting at Apple seeks a Performance QA Engineer for iPad Media, which suggests that the iPad may receive video capture capabilities in the future.
The Interactive Media … Read More
This morning, reports are discussing the possibility of Apple lowering the price of the iPad if demand does not meet the company's projections for sales. It has been noted that Apple plans to be "nimble" on pricing if demand lags.
The report comes by a note from Credit Suisse analyst Bill Shope who recently met and discussed iPad details with Apple executives:
Apple wants the iPad to be the best device … Read More
We won't be getting our hands on the iPad in Canada anytime soon. Expect the WiFi version of the iPad to hit Apple Stores in late March. While we're waiting, let's take a look at some promising iPad accessories that will make the most out of your iPad (don't forget to pre-order your invisibleSHIELD for 20% off)!
Griffin Technology has a nice line up of iPad accessories coming soon! … Read More
Are you patiently waiting to buy an iPad in Canada once they hit stores at the end of March? Well, if you can't wait any longer we have a solution for you to get one TODAY! Jess Silverstone from Revolutionary Concepts created a cut-out of the iPad that you can print and glue/tape up yourself!
There are two PNG files that will fit on standard A4 paper, … Read More
Calling all iPad developers and BETA testers! On January 27, 2010, Apple released the iPad. Since the iPad is not yet released in stores until late March (WIFI Models) and late April (3G+WIFI Models), currently there are small amount of applications developed.
Maybe you have some interest in developing? iPadBeta.com is offering iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch users and developers a chance to work together on their developments. The community … Read More


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Facebook Groups and Pages
As well as our main Facebook page where we post latest news and other items, we also have an open Facebook group and several active Facebook chapters. The administrators on the groups are paid-up HNS members, but you do not need to be a paid up member to join the groups. Please read group rules and try to stick to them. We ran a pretty extensive survey which confirmed that most people in our groups do NOT want an overload of self-promotion – if you want your say on that, please add your thoughts here.
The Historical Novel Society Facebook Page
The Historical Novel Society Australasian Conference Page
The Historical Novel Society North American Conference Page
The Historical Novel Society – main group (c. 6000 members)
The Historical Novel Society – Discounts, Competitions and Promotions – here is where book promotions are very welcome.
The Historical Novel Society – Manuscript group – closed group for paid up society members only.
Arizona chapter
Northern California chapter
South California chapter
Chesapeake Bay Area chapter
Great Lakes chapter
New England chapter
Upstate New York chapter
New York City chapter
Mid-South chapter
Pacific NW chapter
Texas chapter
Devon chapter
Irish chapter
London chapter
Contact us if you're interested in setting up your own Historical Novel Society group on Facebook. It is a great way to start a local chapter, and to find like-minded readers and authors.


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Artists Programs
By providing supports that utilize on-line resources and outfit one-to-one relationships, our hope is to become an entity that will implement programs for working artists by supplying small grants, as well as a mentoring program that connects new artists with artists in the advanced stages of their careers. We also hope to create a non-profit 501(c) subsidiary to support these endeavors.
Micro Grants
Artists Supplies – Amount: $250
Projects – Amount: $250
Fast grants can be helpful for artists to aid in paying for art supplies or last minute project expenses. These are small grants that are for artists in need.
Online Monthly Mentoring
Length: One year
Artists and writers that are at the beginning stages of their career often need guidance in both their process and in navigating their career goals. Having a mentor to connect with can be essential in allowing an artist to evolve and be seen. It also helps to have the confirmation that's needed in order to gain the confidence to grow along their ongoing path.


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Yep, I gave myself an extra injection tonight-oops! DH's sister was coming over for dinner at 6:30 so a few minutes before, we went to get ready. I was in charge of the Lupron and Gonal and DH was in charge of the Menopur. First off, let me start by saying-I HATE AIR BUBBLES!!! For the life of me, I can not flick those little suckers out! So I asked DH to which he gladly did, then handed it back to me and I looked at him wide-eyed, "Babe! I can't use that!!!" It was all crooked and crazy looking.
I go back to the bathroom (I was working in the bathroom and he was working in the bedroom on the dresser), fill up 10 units of Lupron, have DH flick out the air bubbles...gently, then go shoot myself. Then I went ahead and stuck myself with the Gonal pen but it wasn't doing anything. UGH! I'd forgotten to pull out the tab so I stuck myself for no reason!?! Okay, start over and done just as DH says he's ready for the Menopur.
I walk out of the bathroom and stop in my tracks, "WTH!?! That's not the right needle!" DH points, that's what you laid out. He's right, it was what I laid out...22 gauge instead of 27!!! If you're not familiar with the difference, google it-a 22 is ginamourous!!! Okay, got the 27, he shoots me-it went MUCH better than last night. Thanks for the tip Kayee, we didn't bother with the Q cup tonight and DH said the needle worked much better.
In total, since 11/7, I've been stuck 35 times...3 blood draws, 31 injections and 1 injection just for they hey of it. I'm getting stuck again in the morning for another blood draw, hopefully my estradiol is still going up!!!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Oops! An Extra Injection
Yep, I gave myself an extra injection tonight-oops! DH's sister was coming over for dinner at 6:30 so a few minutes before, we went to get ready. I was in charge of the Lupron and Gonal and DH was in charge of the Menopur. First off, let me start by saying-I HATE AIR BUBBLES!!! For the life of me, I can not flick those little suckers out! So I asked DH to which he gladly did, then handed it back to me and I looked at him wide-eyed, "Babe! I can't use that!!!" It was all crooked and crazy looking.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 6:24 PM 5 comments
Monday, November 29, 2010
Menopur-You Suck!
Tonight's menopur shot sucked! I worked late so as soon as I got home it was about shot time. DH wasn't home yet so I gave myself the lupron and the gonal and hopped in the shower hoping he'd be home by the time I got out. He wasn't. Okay, I got the laptop and menopur video pulled up. So far the gonal pen and the lupron all came paired together with their needles. The menopur didn't. The video didn't say what gauge needle to use. I pulled out the directions and read through it, ok 25-27. I search through my box of needles and pull them all out. One bag of 27-sweet! Wait-they aren't attached to a syringe. Hmm...I call DH to ask when he'll be home because I need his help, he says 10 minutes. Okay but now we're cutting it close on time. I am about to panic when I realize-duh, call the pharmacy! He tells me to just switch out the needles on the syringe, throw the one that was it away and he let me know that I could order needles/syringes at any time-they're free! WOOHOO! One thing is free!!!
The menopur and sodium chloride...this one sucks! Let me tell you why...
Okay so for you people out there who aren't familiar with that, which I know I have more readers out there that aren't since I "came clean" on my regular blog, you have to mix menopur and it sucked or maybe just our syringe did, I don't know. I'm just glad DH got home in time to help, although I was VERY crabby with him. So you have to put this Q-cup on the end of the syringe and draw up the sodium chloride. This is the part that sucked because unlike the syringes for the lupron, it was bouncy-does that make sense? Like the other syringes, you pull it to 20 and it stays there. With this one, it wouldn't stay still! Then the Q-cup was super hard to get off and DH actually unscrewed it and I might have yelled at him for that.
So then you take that and put it in the bottle with Menopur, mix it and then pull it back in the syringe with no air bubbles but again, it was bouncing all over the place! We finally *kind of* figured it out then he went to give me the shot and ugh...I don't know that we got the full 75 units! Plus I only have 3 more bottles so I hope I'm not on this long!!! So Menopur, you totally suck! Oh well, moving on, I have a feeling we'll be adding shot #4 sometime this week!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 8:21 PM 3 comments
Bring on the Men!
Went for blood work this morning...they opened at 7:30am, I left the house at 6:15am, I got there at 6:50am, they took a 30 second blood draw then I got in the car and drove 45 minutes to work. Yeah, that kind of sucked but you gotta do what you gotta do.
They called this afternoon and my estradiol level is going up, it's at 180 so I was happy about that. I am adding on the Menopur tonight, so three shots tonight and tomorrow night then another blood draw Wednesday morning. I'm going to try to put in extra hours each day this week so I don't have to take any time although I have a TON of it but that's why I have a ton of it because I always try to make my time up instead of using it.
Anyways, on the shot menu tonight:
10 units of Lupron
75 units of Menopur (a little nervous about having to mix and concoct and all that, Freedom Fertility video, here I come!)
150 units of Gonal
Slowly but surely we're making progress!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 3:39 PM 1 comments
Sunday, November 28, 2010
I Got the Gon
The Gonal-F RFF Pen that is! I started the gonal shots on Friday evening. When DH and I were packing to head to my parents for the weekend, I said I packed the gonal. He got the giggles and started saying, "I hope we don't pass the gon around at Thanksgiving." He's such a nerd sometimes!
Anyways, so Friday night I gave myself the 10 units of Lupron. Then I took the Gonal-F pen and my laptop. I watched the video and did all the steps along with the video. I thought it was weird that I had to wipe the area I shot with gauze instead of an alcohol pad like the Lupron. It did bleed but I expected that since I was using gauze to wipe up...surprised I didn't bleed out chocolate pie! The Gonal-F RFF Pen...on 225 units right now:
All went well until the end of the shot. When I was screwing the lid back on the needle came out of the plastic and stuck me in the finger! Ow-chee-wawa!!! DH was in an intense ping pong game when it was shot time so when I was done, he came to check on me and I told him about the needle. Guess we'll have to watch that! You can see the needle sticking out here.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 6:51 PM 2 comments
Friday, November 26, 2010
Conversations with Family
Today is Friday which means we're moving forward with IVF!!! DH and I both took our Zithromax this morning and we add on a second shot tonight. I'll post about that later. First off, let me share some conversations with our families from Thanksgiving.
MIL: Would DH wear this? (It's a green John Deere visor)
Me: I don't think so, I've never seen him wear a visor.
MIL: Would you?
Me: Yeah, I wear visors.
MIL: You should wear just the visor and see what DH does.
After dinner at DH's family, we headed to my mom's house. After turkey dinner #2, we were all in the basement watching tv and my step sis and mom were quilting. On the commercial breaks, I'd mute the tv and make everyone say one thing they were thankful for. During one break, I asked my stepsis if she'd gotten pregnant with both her daughters but IUI. She told me only the oldest and she had a theory about how she got pregnant with her second daughter. Our convo:
Me: Oh, what's the theory?
Stepsis: Is my dad asleep? (My mom checks, he was, or so we thought) Positions, with E (second daughter) we tried it with him behind me.
Room breaks into hysterical laughter as she continues on to tell us why she thought that position worked. My stepdad starts to smile as he was "asleep" then joined the laughter. She finished the convo with, "Maybe you and DH should try that."
So apparently once you tell your families that you're trying to have a baby, they feel all barriers are gone and talk about sex in any way or manner is okay. FYI-it's totally NOT! But I did get some good laughs out of both these conversations.
Happy Friday all!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 1:38 PM 2 comments
Thursday, November 25, 2010
What I'm Thankful For
During this journey, it can be hard at times to be thankful but at other times, it's overwhelming easy to be. If I finish this journey without a baby, there is one thing that I've learned: there are some amazing people out there that support DH and I. I can't tell you how many times a friend, acquaintance, blog friend that I've never met has simply asked, "How are you doing?" and really meant it. Sometimes I just nod, other times those words send me to tears but the fact that someone cares enough to ask just means the world to me. So even if I've never met you, I thank you for being a part of our journey. This blog, you bloggy people out there are part of my "therapy" that is keeping me from going bananas!
I am also thankful that at "only" six months into our journey, we knew our diagnosis and that our only option was IVF. Granted, I would prefer to just get prego the old fashioned way but I'm thankful that we knew right away and had our answer. In the crazy game of IF, we do a lot of waiting and this is one thing we didn't have to wait for.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 7:46 AM 3 comments
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Much Better!
Today I had another appointment for an u/s and blood work. Amazing what Aunt Flo can do to you! I felt much better going into this appointment. It probably helped that I had friend who needed to go for blood work too so we carpooled. Funny, I never thought I'd be carpooling to the fert doc!
So I walked in, WAY early but it worked out. I headed to the u/s sound bench (I knew where it was this time!) and saw Tracy but some other lady came out. I was a little bummed it wasn't Tracy but oh well, the other lady was just as nice. She pointed stuff out on the screen to me and said everything looked good. I had 10 small follicles on the left ovary and 6 on the right (maybe because I'm right handed so I use that side more is why there was less? That's my non-medical guess). That was SUPER encouraging!
Then I headed to get blood drawn. There was a lady in there right before me and I think she might of thought she was prego. She was all excited and so were the nurses. The girl in line behind me had braces so see IF hits all of us...black, white, braces, no braces, short, tall, skinny, fat. Speaking of FAT...the nurse took me to weigh me before she drew my blood. I got a little panicky because I hadn't been weighed since my first consult back in April. In my mind I was thinking, they weren't going to let us move forward because I weighed too much. I asked the lady and she said they weigh you to help watch so you don't hyper stimulate-whew! I told her okay and I was just glad she weighed me TODAY before Thanksgiving and not next week-yikes! She drew the blood and then I was on my way.
I had a few errands to run in a town we passed through but both places were closed. As we were looking for the second, we saw a new cupcake place and HAD to stop! Peanut butter cupcakes make everything better!
Mary called this afternoon and said I was good to go and then gave a little woohoo! I laughed and said I was much better than when I talked to her last, she said she could tell. So tonight and tomorrow still 20 units of lupron then on Friday DH and I both take Zithromax and I decrease to 10 units of lupron. I also add in 225 units of Gonal then head back in Monday for another blood draw. Seriously, my veins are so sore but I'm not complaining!!! Definitely thankful for the great news today and excited to move forward on Friday. OH! I asked her if I needed to order another box of lupron since I went longer and she said since I was decreasing to 10 units, it *should* get me through so more good news! I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving. IF sucks and is hard but I still have a lot to be thankful for.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 3:11 PM 1 comments
Much Better!
Today I had another appointment for an u/s and blood work. Amazing what Aunt Flo can do to you! I felt much better going into this appointment. It probably helped that I had friend who needed to go for blood work too so we carpooled. Funny, I never thought I'd be carpooling to the fert doc!
So I walked in, WAY early but it worked out. I headed to the u/s sound bench (I knew where it was this time!) and saw Tracy but some other lady came out. I was a little bummed it wasn't Tracy but oh well, the other lady was just as nice. She pointed stuff out on the screen to me and said everything looked good. I had 10 small follicles on the left ovary and 6 on the right (maybe because I'm right handed so I use that side more is why there was less? That's my non-medical guess). That was SUPER encouraging!
Then I headed to get blood drawn. There was a lady in there right before me and I think she might of thought she was prego. She was all excited and so were the nurses. The girl in line behind me had braces so see IF hits all of us...black, white, braces, no braces, short, tall, skinny, fat. Speaking of FAT...the nurse took me to weigh me before she drew my blood. I got a little panicky because I hadn't been weighed since my first consult back in April. In my mind I was thinking, they weren't going to let us move forward because I weighed too much. I asked the lady and she said they weigh you to help watch so you don't hyper stimulate-whew! I told her okay and I was just glad she weighed me TODAY before Thanksgiving and not next week-yikes! She drew the blood and then I was on my way.
I had a few errands to run in a town we passed through but both places were closed. As we were looking for the second, we saw a new cupcake place and HAD to stop! Peanut butter cupcakes make everything better!
Mary called this afternoon and said I was good to go and then gave a little woohoo! I laughed and said I was much better than when I talked to her last, she said she could tell. So tonight and tomorrow still 20 units of lupron then on Friday DH and I both take Zithromax and I decrease to 10 units of lupron. I also add in 225 units of Gonal then head back in Monday for another blood draw. Seriously, my veins are so sore but I'm not complaining!!! Definitely thankful for the great news today and excited to move forward on Friday. OH! I asked her if I needed to order another box of lupron since I went longer and she said since I was decreasing to 10 units, it *should* get me through so more good news! I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving. IF sucks and is hard but I still have a lot to be thankful for.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 3:11 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Jinxing Me
Long before, DH and I were even married, my mom buy stuff for her "grandbaby." Last year at Christmas, we'd been trying for a couple months with no success and I went shopping with her. She found some cute baby stuff and insisted on buying it for her "grandbaby." We hadn't told her anything yet so I just kept saying, "Don't...we may not have kids."
I talked to my mom on the phone Friday night. She knew about the absence of Flo and how upset I was. On Thursday when I talked to her, she told me that she's really worried about how I'll take it if IVF doesn't work and hopes that it doesn't impact DH and I's relationship for the worst. Friday on the phone she told me she'd gotten rid of all the "grandbaby" stuff. She didn't want me to think she was jinxing me. I'm not upset about this but at the same time it makes me sad. I can't make DH a father, I can't make my parents grandparents...it just sucks.
FYI-I wrote this post Friday after I talked to her and Flo hadn't arrived. I'm in a better place now than I was then. I have an appointment tomorrow for an ultrasound and bloodwork. If my Estradol level is low enough, which it should be since I've had a period, then I could start my stim shots as early as Friday!!!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 9:28 AM 5 comments
Monday, November 22, 2010
WE HAVE A PERIOD!!! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Flo is here!!! DH woke up super early this morning and I just laid in bed with my furbaby cuddling up with her then I grabbed my I-Touch and started checking FB when DH walked in. "Oh, someone IS up!" I nodded and told him, "Still no period." He commented with, "I figured!" I got offended and said, "What's that mean???" He kissed me and changed the subject, I let it go because I didn't want to start the morning off bad. It actually nice getting up and having some time to myself or with DH instead of getting up at the last minute, getting ready and walking out the door. I laid in bed and watched him get ready and play with our big 'ole black lab who was about to eat his sock. He kissed me bye and left for work.
I got up and got ready, put the dogs away and had that "period" feeling but wasn't getting my hopes up. I decided I'd go to the bathroom one more time before I left and what do you know...there she was! I said out loud to myself, "No way!" I checked like 4 times, did what I had to do then started singing, "I'm a, I'm a period girl!" to the tune of Madonna's "Material Girl." I was so freakin' giddy. I got in the car and called DH. Here was our convo:
Me: Guess what!!!
DH: What?
Me: I got my period!
DH: Seriously?
Me: Yep!
DH: I didn't really think you'd joke about that but I had to ask. See this is why I said, I figured you hadn't started in the bedroom...I knew you'd be a little bit more excited.
Me: Yep, I'm definitely excited! We're back on track. I know you probably don't want to hear this but-
DH: You don't have to tell me the details. Be sure to call them this morning.
Me: Duh!
I hung up with DH and called my mom. It was 6:15 in the morning so I could tell I woke her up. When she recognized my voice, she immediately said, "You started your period?" I said yep and she told me she'd woke up and prayed about it. I told her that was probably what sent me over the edge and got it started.
Good 'ole Flo couldn't have come at a better time. Aside from stressing since last Tuesday about this, last night I bent my needle, lost some meds and listened to my SIL cry, for real tears, about her roommates about 10 seconds after I told her what was going on with the IVF (I gave her this warning to pass on to her parents so that they don't ask me on Thanksgiving and I break down in tears). I didn't tell her wait until you're married and then you'll REALLY think you have roommate issues i.e. drinking all the milk, leaving spoons in the fridge and putting your hand on peanut butter someone smeared on the cabinet door.
Anyways, thank you God for the period, thanks to all of you for the prayers and encouragement. Now I can "relax" and enjoy Flo!!!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 6:51 AM 9 comments
Saturday, November 20, 2010
The Holiday Spirit
Here's something to perk up your holiday spirit! Shutterfly is giving away 50 free Christmas cards to all bloggers!
(random card from Shutterfly)
DH and I's first Christmas together was about 10 days after we got engaged. We got engaged on 12.15.07. He had to go push snow after we got engaged early that morning. We were on some snowy banks where my furbaby "found" the ring then I also had to go to work. I got home before he did so I created our first Christmas card together.
When he FINALLY got off work, we'd picked up the cards and took them to his parents' house where we didn't say anything about getting engaged, instead just handed her the card. On the bottom of the card, it said, "P.S. We're engaged!!!" It took her like 5 minutes to catch on then she got really excited! It was so much fun. We headed over to his sister's after that and told her, she noticed it right away. Then we mailed the cards to all our friends and family the next day and that's how we told everyone we were engaged.
When we started TTC in October 2009, I knew it would happen right away and we'd be 7-8 weeks at Christmas time so we'd be able to do the same thing with our Christmas cards except write, "P.S. We're having a baby!!!" No such luck but maybe one day...
So jump over to Shutterfly and check out their Christmas cards, address labels and lots of other fun items!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 8:50 AM 0 comments
Friday, November 19, 2010
Great Friends!
My friend Flo is being a total bitch but that's okay because I've got some great friends. Since my breakdown on Wednesday, my friends have done everything they can to try to get me to snap out of it.
*My friend K sent me a really sweet email listing everything good I've got going for me. My favorite, and the funniest, "You know how to operate a gun." LOL! That's right little deer, stay outta my way!
*My friend A read my blog, knew I was off work and upset so she called and invited me to hang out Thursday afternoon. Even though I didn't take her up on the offer because I was trying to preoccupy myself and make headway on Christmas list, I still really appreciate that she thought of me.
*My friend J sent me some "texts" and called to check in on me. Hopefully, DH and I will be able to spend some time with her and her hubs when we're in town next weekend for Thanksgiving.
*My friend S invited me to tag along with her and her other friend for dinner tonight since DH is headed out of town again to go deer hunting. She even helped me with my shot! We had to do it in the Applebee's bathroom so she just held everything for me as I prepared and shot myself. She told me she was intrigued by everything going on and when I was finished, she commented, "Wow! That's like the bravest thing ever!"
This morning, I woke up and put on my fertility earrings from Adele, my best pair of panties and tried not to think about Flo all day...it didn't work, thought about Flo and she still didn't come. I've got a fun Saturday planned with my friends including a 5k Walk for St. Jude and a girls get-together/purse party tomorrow evening. I'm just going to try to focus on the fun times and the great friends I have. So Flo, even though you've got something against me, I'll still got some awesome friends who are by my side no matter what!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 7:56 PM 5 comments
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Trying Really Hard
I'm trying really hard to not get upset today but it's not working. I talked to Mary again today because I was much better, well until I got off the phone, where I could actually speak and ask questions. I asked if there was a reason why my period won't start, she said no, it's just like the watched pot that you want to boil. I asked if my period wasn't here by December 3 if I would still continue with the shots through the rest of the month, she said no. So now we just wait and I call to check in next Tuesday at 1 if Flo's here or not. If she's not here by December 3 then I just wait until January. And to top it all off, Mary kept saying my name wrong which I HATE. I hate when you really like someone or think that you're "friends" with someone then they say/spell your name wrong (FYI-this December marks DH and I's 4 year dating/engaged/married anniversary and he STILL spells my name wrong).
I'm mad at myself because I accidentally posted my post yesterday on my non-IF blog where I have NEVER mentioned my IF or IVF or anything. I deleted it right away but apparently it still shows up in your Google Reader even after I deleted it. I was greeted to an inbox full of bloggers worried and concerned about me which I really appreciate but I hate because now they all look at me differently. I'm sure they really wanted to read about my bleed too, huh?
A "friend" on FB posted this as their status, "I've carried a child within my body (X's 2) . I've slept with babies on my chest. I have kissed booboos, mended broken hearts, been puked on, peed on, spent sleepless nights in a rocking chair but I wouldn't have it any other way. My body isn't magazine perfect (no way), but when I look in the mirror... I...see a mom and there is no greater honor or blessing. Repost if you are proud to be a mom like I am!" Really? I'm too mentally exhausted to comment on this other than to send dagger looks.
Funny thing before two days ago, I would tell everyone, "DH and I are doing IVF." Now it's, "DH and I are trying to do IVF." Because really...we aren't right now. I'm feeling really defeated like this is never going to happen. I'm just so tired of EVERYTHING right now. I'm off work today but I don't think that's a good idea because now I'm just sitting around dwelling on it and I'm afraid to go in public because I could break into tears at any moment. The good thing about yesterday when I got to work, my boss had a pudding parfait for me-it's like she knew! Now the rest of my co-workers, well the ones I worked with in the evening knew I was crabby but continued to press every single button I had.
OH! And I gave myself the shot last night and when I pulled the needle out, a few seconds later some of the med leaked out. Any idea what this means? I read somewhere that it might be because the needle was too close to the skin? I usually push all the med in then wait a few seconds before I pull it out. This is the first time I've noticed this...any suggestions?
Okay, I'm done whining, I won't post any more because I know you all don't want to hear my woe is me. Thanks for listening though!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 9:05 AM 3 comments
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Update from Mary!
According to my blood test, my body really wants to have a period so hopefully any day now it'll come. She said my Estradoil levels were really high and they even ran a pregnancy test to make sure they weren't missing anything. I laughed at that because they said to use protection during the IVF cycle so there's not even a chance of pregnancy right now. So now I just wait and inspect the toilet paper with every wipe in hopes of Flo. I continue with my prenats and 20 units of Lupron and call when I get my period. Cross you fingers, your hair, your eyes and say a little prayer that my period gets here ASAP!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 4:13 PM 2 comments
They Just Keep Coming
I've had tears pretty much off and on all week. Today though, they've been non-stop. My eyelashes are clumped together, my eyeballs bloodshot and my throat hurts from all the crying. Okay so where to start. Well, I posted last night about how I haven't had a "bleed." So this morning, my appt is at 9:10, I left the house at 8:15, realized I needed gas then was on the verge of tears the whole way down there knowing I wouldn't be getting any good news, or even news for that matter. I kept staring at the clock as we'd move quickly then be at a standstill, I had tears as I thought, "What if I'm late? Will they turn me away?" Sometimes the receptionist isn't very friendly.
I pulled into the parking lot at 9:10, almost running some woman over and I thought to myself, wow-I'm a really bad person. I waved and mouthed sorry then ran upstairs. I grabbed a tissue as I was told to head back and sit on the "ultrasound bench." Umm...okay, where's that? I had to ask three different people before I found it. I took a seat and luckily, Tracy came out, the same one who did my sonalhist and TET. I go in and start to change telling her I haven't had a bleed yet and telling her how I was confused and I knew I should of called and I messed up. She looks at me and says, "What do you mean you messed up? OH! Don't cry!" Yeah, the tears came...hard. I grabbed that tissue I'd picked up and apologized. She told me that they would probably just have come back when my period/bleed started and do all this again and they'd probably have me do medicine to start my period. Okay, this pisses me off (not the doctors, my body) because I have NEVER missed a period in my entire life (yep, that's right, no possible pregnancy scare...EVER, no possible BFP...EVER) and here when I need it to effing happen so that I can start my stim meds, it's not. As she did the ultrasound, tears just rolled down my cheeks and I realized about halfway through that I had every single muscle in my body tensed. After the ultrasound, I headed to have blood drawn and then left.
From the moment, I stepped out of the office and was waiting for the elevator, I was bawling hysterically. Luckily, it was a quiet cry so no one heard me but one look at me and "Woo! This lady is cuckoo!" I bawled until I got on the interstate and then I just stopped. I was blank, I was numb, I didn't think or feel anything the rest of the way home until I pulled off the interstate and then the tears came on hard again.
I'm stressed people...uber stressed and I know, I shouldn't be but I can't help it, I am. I don't feel good about this cycle, call it non-mother's intuition if you will and today's visit didn't help much. DH and I haven't been seeing eye to eye lately. He told me that he didn't think the shots were a big deal and I did. He said that the hormones WERE working because I'm super moody, I agree the past two days I have been but I don't think it has to do with the hormones.
So we're just in a holding pattern. We might possible be the 1-2 couples in our orientation class that has their cycle cancelled. Mary just called me and said she had to wait for my bloodwork but that we're just waiting for my period. I asked her about what Tracie said about giving me meds to start my period and she said she couldn't give me any right now because I just came off BC. And the meds would have me starting during the time they're shut down. SO now we just have to wait for my period and if it's not here by December 3, then we have to wait until January to do this. Freakin' awesome...
I wore the socks Shawna sent me today. I love them! So there, I'm ending on a happy note.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 10:57 AM 2 comments
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Lupron Bleed
I haven't had it. Tomorrow's my visit with Dr. Val. I've been so busy and trying not to get too far into the IVF cycle that I didn't realize this. I partially blame the wording. When I last talked to Dr. Val's office, they said, or I heard, you may have a bleed. Okay to me, may means you may or you may not. I got the paperwork out last week and was reading through it. It said if you haven't had a period by this appointment (the one tomorrow) then call the office. Okay, well to me a lupron bleed and a period are different so I didn't think much about it. Then I start pulling my stuff out for tomorrow and I read through the notes I took at the orientation and it says, you will bleed on day 10 of lupron, if you haven't call the office. Okay, well, today is day 10, my appointment is tomorrow morning at 9:10am, I read this at 6pm tonight so it's a little late to call and they don't open until 8:30 which I'll already be on my way down there. UGH!!!
On top of all this no bleed, I was already feeling down and not great about this. Maybe the lupron is working because today has been one massive mood swing from tears to road rage to tears again, then again it could just be that I'm just stressed and tired. To top it off, DH frustrated me so I've started just giving myself the shots and after I gave the one today it was all red and it bled again. So I have no idea what to except tomorrow, they may just turn me away as soon as I get there, they might move forward. I'm going to bed now...I'm too exhausted to handle anything else today.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 7:52 PM 1 comments
Sunday, November 14, 2010
A Weekend with the In-Laws
Come on, you guys really thought I'd spend an entire weekend with my in-laws and not have any good stories? Oh...I do, just you wait...
*Remember I'd posted a couple days ago, that my SIL was trying to get us to tell my extremely immature BIL? Yeah, well, he came out on Friday night, got up Saturday morning and everyone was "crabby" (which they were) and he used that as his excuse to leave...as in for the entire weekend. This was just after less than 24 hours of listening to him complain about everything and anything OH and eat the food I'd brought for lunch the next day. As he was driving off at 6AM, I wanted to point and say and THIS is why we're not telling him. All in all, we all agreed it was much better without him.
*Remember how I said I wasn't feeling anything from the Lupron shots? Yeah, I think it's because DH is getting all the hormones. Man-o-man was he in a foul mood all weekend! My MIL and SIL kept asking about the shots and how I was feeling, I said I was fine and apparently DH got the hormones. Wow, I hope he gets off his "period" soon!
*Saturday night in the midst of taking care of my FIL's deer, DH and I had to run inside so I could get my shot. When we came out, FIL asked if I got my baby shot? Then proceeded to ask how IVF works, which I don't mind, however, I'm not entirely comfortable when he asks if we can keep trying the "regular" way. Call me crazy but I don't really enjoy discussing my sex life at the dinner table with my in-laws.
*And now, are you ready for the best story? As soon as I'd recovered from the shock of the words that came out of my SIL's mouth, I couldn't wait to tell you all. Primarily because DH always defends his family and NEVER sees anything they say/do wrong. So without further wait...Friday, we all get to the farmhouse. MIL and I are unpacking groceries and talking when SIL stumbles in totally el drunko from the neighbor's. She's extremely loud, talkative and keeps repeating the same story over and over. Then it clinks in her head and she asks, "How's the shots going?" FYI-this was the first time she asked and by the end of the night she'd asked me three different times. I said they were good and DH was much better at giving them than I was. Then she smirks and looks at me, "Yeah, well, I got two allergy shots on Thursday so there-I beat you!" I quickly snipped, "I've had six shots this week and a LOT more to go." She doesn't hear me and blabs on and on about her office visit of shots, oh that's right, she doesn't have to have her or her spouse (not that she has one) GIVE HER the shots...at home...every night! And I would much rather "let her win" with her two allergy shots and just get pregnant the good 'ole fashioned way! Okay...it was 2 days ago, I'm going to let it go now...until the AM when I tell my co-workers this story.
Sometimes I just don't think his family understands the seriousness of it. I mean yeah, I joke around sometimes about it with my family or friends but they've never once really accepted the fact that we can't have kinds naturally. It's like they think we're just doing this for fun? They keep asking if we can try the regular way, um sure but it ain't gonna work. They almost make fun of the "baby shots." And then they try to "beat me" at who gets the most shots (I've always felt like SIL has to one up me, now this is just drunken proof that she does). So there's my stories of the weekend with the in-laws. I'm sure they'll be more to come, just you wait!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 9:36 PM 2 comments
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Five Shots Down
Five shots down and who knows how many to go. I must admit this week hasn't been as bad as I thought with the shots. Funny thing is that I thought November was a slow month but it's been crazy, insane busy! We're going to DH's family's farm for deer season this weekend. I'm not too worried since I've only had 2/5 shots at home, the other two at my work and the one tonight at DH's part-time job. So what's a weekend away without running water? Never fear, we have enough running water to wash our hands but there will be no showers. It's not as bad as it sounds.
DH asked me if I was going to hunt this weekend. Yes, ladies, I hunt, it's only my second year and I've never got anything yet so we'll see how I do. If nothing else, I always get lots of quiet, reading time during this weekend which is perfect because I just got 3 new books in the mail this week! Anyways, before this week I'd told DH I wasn't sure, it would depend on how I felt this week with the shots. Well, as I stated yesterday, I'm just SUPER tired but I don't think it has to do with the shots. I went yesterday and got my deer tags, or as I like to call it my donation to conservation. DH reminded me that I wasn't suppose to "jostle" the good 'ole ovaries in which I reminded him that the gun would be on my shoulder, not my ovaries and I'd have to SEE something before I shot it to jostle anything.
So five shots done and numerous more to go, Dr. Val next Wednesday and we'll see where it goes from there!
Side note: A fellow blogger lost her husband on Tuesday in a total accident. She's pregnant with her third child, he won't ever get to meet his baby. It really put things into perspective for me. I've been sitting here freaking out about shots but the truth is that if I didn't have DH, I wouldn't be doing this, going through IVF and I'd much rather be going through all this, including the ups, downs, good news, disappointments and even possibly a life without children, with him than not have him at all. Prayers go out to Vee and her family, my heart aches for them. Please say a prayer for her if you don't mind.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 8:15 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
All By Myself
Okay, now I have that song stuck in my head. Tonight was Day 4 for Lupron and I gave myself the shot!!! Surprisingly, I wasn't really nervous at all and I didn't really think about it. I was kind of busy right up until a few minutes before 6 so I didn't have time to sit and stew about OMG! I'm shooting myself tonight. I set everything up first then washed my hands then very surgerical-like I shut the door (with my foot) and began doing everything. It did hurt more than when DH does it and it bled for the first time tonight!?! I suck at this but, oh well, I did it myself. Tomorrow night DH works and I don't so I was going to give myself the shot again, now I'm thinking I might visit him at work to give me the shot plus I'm making a really yummy dinner so I'll take that to him and he'll be happy.
Now let's talk about the Lupron, shall we? I don't really feel that different. I am SUPER tired this week but I don't really think it's a side effect of the Lupron. All my mommy friends always discuss their child's sleep schedule so let's discuss mine, shall we? Typically, I'm in bed by 9:30...10 at the latest and up around 5:45am. I've stacked all my night shifts (2-10pm) in November but I'm using up a lot of personal and vacation days before the end of the year so my schedule is now all out of wack. I've been staying up until 11pm-midnight and getting up about 6-7am. Point being, I don't really feel like my wanting to sleep all the time has anything to do with the Lupron but more so with my crazy, messed-up sleep schedule. So other than being tired, which is not directly correlated to the Lupron, I don't feel anything at all. Is this normal? Should I be having something? I took my last birth control pill this morning so I should have a "bleed" sometime soon according to Dr. Val, not a period but a "bleed." Wow-whenever did I ever think I'd be blogging about that.
Last night I had dinner with some great friends of mine, the girls from college. I told them we were doing IVF. K, my roommate from college, was super excited and A, she was funny, you would have thought I told her I was a man, needless to say she was in shock. So I spent most of dinner giving them all a biology lesson, explaining acronyms, dropping words like sperm, egg, semen analysis, etc...I repeatedly told them over and over that I was by no means an expert so don't take what I was saying as gospel. They were all very supportive and wished us the best. Hopefully next time I see them I'll have a little bambino growing in my belly but let's just focus on getting to that point first. Whew!
So I shot myself today and I survived.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 6:16 PM 2 comments
Socks, socks, socks!!!
Shawna, my newest blog friend, is the one who told me about Fertility Socks. When she told me about it, she offered to send me a pair of socks. She said she really appreciated my honesty and upfront answers. I think she's just thankful that I'm going through all this about a month ahead of her so she knows what to expect which is part of why I created this blog. If I can help another woman going through IF just by letting her read my story, then I feel like I've helped in some way. She also sent me this super sweet card and I love how it says, "Dream Out Loud" on the socks. Because I mean by going through IVF, I am dreaming out loud, aren't I? I'm saying out loud and taking action towards having a baby! Not only did I get socks from Shawna on Monday but when I got to work, I had a little goodie bag sitting in my chair. The pink socks there are from my co-worker, really more a friend, P. P has been a great outlet at work where I receive a lot of communication with Dr. Val and her office. P has been a great listener and provides me with lots of encouragement. She was probably the very first person to know about everything, she knew when we started TTC and the failures each month and the first few doctor's visits, she's been awesome! Her and her husband are expecting their first daughter any day now. She commented the other day that isn't it weird how she's finishing her pregnancy right as we're starting IVF.
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 1:08 PM 3 comments
Monday, November 8, 2010
You're Fired!
Yeah, so lupron Day 2 did not go as great. I had to work, DH was working there part-time which I was really excited about so that he could help me. I told him to meet me at 5:55 so we could do the shot right at 6. Well, he stopped by my desk early. I told him he had to be sure that he washed his hands and he informed me that he already had. Umm...I meant a little closer to shot time. Luckily, he sneezed so he had to go wash his hands again. We went to do the shot and he's pulling everything out like he's an 'ole pro. I reminded him to flip the bottle over before pulling out the needle. He was going so fast and rushing (which is my biggest fear of rushing with these shots!) and I kept telling him to take his time but did he? NO! He forgot to flip the bottle over again and I barely had the alcohol wipe out to wipe down my spot when he's like, "Are you ready?" He gave the shot and it didn't hurt going in, maybe it was the spot I picked, kind of right where my pants rode so it was kind of achey.
I was SO MAD AT HIM! I told him if he was going to act like a "know-it-all" and rush through it then he wasn't going to help any more. I reminded him that I'd told him to flip the bottle over and he didn't...dear, that's a lot of money in that one little drip so effing listen and flip the damn bottle over! We had no reason to rush, we need to take our time and make sure we're doing everything in our power the best we can. Being a man, of course, he didn't comprehend. I went about my evening and he went about his. About 15 minutes later, he stops by my desk, "Does it still hurt?" I told him it was better but did he understand why I was upset. He said he did and he wouldn't rush any more. We'll see...he'll get another chance tomorrow night but if he's rushing then he's fired! Wednesday and Thursday we won't be together from 6-7pm so I'll have to do the shots myself...I'm getting a little worried about that. I know that it doesn't really hurt but I don't know that I'll be able to push it through myself. Oh well, only time will tell! Oh and don't worry, I won't post every single day I get a shot, ok?
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 6:58 PM 1 comments
Lupron Shot Day 1 Done!
I survived my first shot!!! WOOHOO!!! And I only read the directions twice...okay, I'd read them almost every day the week before but only twice on Sunday night. I actually gave up control and let DH do it. I read the directions to him while he did everything. We double checked that we had 20 units then I cleaned my belly with the alcohol swab then he injected then cleaned it again. Seriously, I think DH should be a nurse. It didn't even hurt! Not even a little pinch! Here was everything we needed: needle, Lupron, alcohol swabs, directions and a sharps container! I'm going to try to take some better pictures along the journey, so be prepared because who knows what I'll take. I'm saving all these pictures and plan on printing them out for a photo album. I want to remember every part of this.
I feel much better now that the first one is done! The only minor mishap is that DH didn't flip the bottle back over before pulling the needle out so we lost a little drop of Lupron but other than that it went great! Afterwards, DH kept telling me he was so proud of me. He told me like five times and DH NEVER repeats things so that made me feel really good. Only three more days of BC and 9 more days of Lupron until my visit with Dr. Val and then on to the next stage!!!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 1:29 PM 4 comments
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Ironic...Don't You Think?
Today's the big shot day!!! We started our day off at church and came home to do some daily chores. I got to organizing and cleaning out the pantry, it felt a little "nesting" like to me. Then DH fell asleep while we were watching tv and I decided to lay down with him. However, I couldn't really fall asleep because I just kept thinking about the shot!!! I hate wishing the day away but I wish it was time already!?! I just want to do it and have it done, know what it's like and let the stress of it just go away. I was thinking to myself that I wanted to take pictures and document the shots, not EVERY night but each part. While I was thinking about that, I realized I needed to document the birth control!!! And...here it is:
I really find it very ironic that I must go on BC before trying to have a baby. I mean, me and BC were BFFs from age 19-25. I must admit that I did/do miss the acne-free face I had while on it but a baby is so worth the acne not to mention, I was over putting extra hormones in my body and spending the money each month. When the nurse said, we'll start you on BC, I think I had a shocked look on my face like WTH? Am I really at the RE office or did I turn in Planned Parenthood? She went on to explain to me that they've had better success with patients who were on BC first. Still, very ironic to me and anyone I explain it to I start off with, "Funny...I'm on BC..."
Know what else I think is ironic? Maybe this is TMI but it's an IF blog, I think TMI is okay. When I started my period the month before our wedding, I looked at DH and said, "Congratulations on making it through life without having a baby before marriage!" I'm really eating those words now, aren't I?
Okay, one more hour to wait then I'm going to take a shower so I'm all fresh and clean. Then I'll start reading the instructions 500 times then at 6pm on the dot...it's date time with me, the needle and Lupron!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 4:16 PM 2 comments
Friday, November 5, 2010
Good News!!!
Great news!!! Remember how this coming Monday was going to be Day 2 of Lupron and I was going to be at work by myself? Well, sometimes DH works PT at my building and it just so happened that they asked him to work on Monday! I'm relieved that he'll be there to help me and calm my nerves and I don't have to be alone with me and the needle on day 2. What a relief! I also told the girl I was working with on Monday night and she was so sweet and said, don't worry about it. When you need to do it, I can cover for you...again relief! I feel much better about that already. So I'm ready Lupron, bring it on...I'm about to be your best friend! Happy Friday everyone!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 6:06 PM 0 comments
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Cry Fest
DH left to go to his PT job tonight and I was flipping through the channels. What did I stop on? Guiliana and Bill...yeah, bad mistake! We'd just watched the epsidode together last week where the doctor told her she miscarried and I had a cry fest then. Now I'm watching it again and hearing her say everything all the thoughts I've had...can't control it, why are we being punished, it's hard, etc...It makes me really scared for the end of that two week wait after the ET. Luckily, for them, they have the funds to try again if they want. Okay, commerical is over back to my cry fest.
OH! My shots start Sunday-I can't believe it's really almost here!!!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 6:36 PM 5 comments
Monday, November 1, 2010
Fertility Socks
My newest blog friend Shawna sent me an email about this great little project called Fertility Socks. You can donate a pair of socks with a message and then woman going through infertility treatments can request a pair. The lady who originated this program said that her friends kept asking what they could do to help and really beside positive thoughts and prayers, there isn't a whole lot anyone else can do for us. She told her friends that they could give her fun socks to wear to her visits because who really wants to stare at plain boring white socks while you're feet are in stirrups (I'm guilty of this, I at least try to make sure they match and don't have holes in them). Plus the fun socks are a great conversation starter! I love this idea and how we can help each other out without even meeting. So please jump over to that website, request a pair if you're going through treatments and donate a pair too! I plan on sending in a pair, I just have to find a really fun pair to send!!!
Posted by Crossing My Fingers at 12:46 PM 1 comments


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Get More in Every Set
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VAPC's ministry with Children and Youth is supported by the CE Committee which stands for "Christian Education", but it also represents this hard-working group, who are both "Committed" and "Enthusiastic".
By translating words into actions, the CE Committee strives to offer relevant and fun programs and events in the life of VAPC:
Sunday School – participants from preschool to high school gather on Sunday mornings to connect and learn, sometimes for an intergenerational program, at other times, as divided age groups (preschool, elementary, youth classes)
Youth Group – meets three Fridays a month, playing games, doing crafts, or going offsite to do activities, such as mini golf, swimming, bowling, escape rooms etc.
Canada Youth contingent – at the last biennial event, VAPC had the largest number of youth attending from Calgary: 11 youth, and 2 small group leaders; ongoing fundraising by the youth includes silent auctions, a Highland tea, bake sales, grocery gift card sales
Young Adults' Group – meets at least once a month, usually to make sandwiches for the Drop-In Centre; other activities have included organizing a congregational camping trip and organizing a mosque visit
Peer Partnership Program – a young adult from VAPC, who is also a University of Calgary student helps to build a bridge between the congregation and Campus Ministry
Mentorship Program – for youth to connect with mentors and learn about the Presbyterian faith, in preparation for the possibility of affirming their baptism
Advent celebrations – making Advent crafts together


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SANGRIA This delicious cocktail combines the best of summer by infusing wine, summer fruits and soda water. Not only is it one of the most refreshing ways to cool off during the warm summer months, this festive wine "punch" is simple to make and is sure to light up any holiday party. Traditionally made from […]
Category: Food Trendz
How to make a perfect Daiquiri Cocktail
DAIQUIRI There may be endless varieties of Daiquiri (strawberry Daiquiri being the most famous) but get some good rum and you can't beat the beautiful simplicity of the original. Type Cocktail Primary alcohol by volume Rum Served Straight up; without ice Standard drinkware Cocktail glass IBA specified ingredients* 4.5 cl (9 parts) white rum 2.5 […]
Bar Tender Of The Year:- A Journey From Pauri Gharwal Village, Uttarakhand to Miami U.S.A.
Jeet Rana
"Bar Tender Of The Year"
Full Name:- Jitender Singh Rana
Date of Birth:- 01 Nov 1992 (24 years)
From:- Pauri Gharwal Village (Uttrakhand)
Nationality:- Indian
Profession:- Bar Specialist
Company:- Bar Back Collective & Perch Bar
Interviewed By:- Virender Singh Rana
Jeet has recently reached the heady heights of mixology glory when he was crowned last year's winner in one of the world's biggest cocktail competitions "World Class 2016".
He is one of the India's most revered bartenders. With an encyclopaedic knowledge of cocktails & spirits and a thorough understanding of impeccable customer service, Jeet ensures the bar's high standards are maintained.
In addition to his perfect technique & creative flair, he is also known for his playful and affable demeanour and as an individual who has never been afraid of testing industry boundaries.
He has been published in numerous articles globally and has appeared on World Class 2016's TV show.
Presently associated with "Bar Back Collective" and "Perch Bar". As a bar specialist, he focuses on Restaurant/Bar turn key projects, Cocktail Programs & Beverage Consultation, Drink Experiences & Events and ultimately on modern mixology trainings with stylish operational skills to make it much dynamic and has been dedicated to training people to become professional Bar Tenders.
Let's have his story in his words only:-
My name is Jitender Singh Rana and now known by the name of Jeet Rana in the industry. I was born in Pauri Garhwal- a small town in Uttarakhand and brought up in Punjab. Graduate in Hotel Management from Dehradoon.
The idea of pursuing Hotel Management came from my father, he is working as a chef and knows every thick and thin of the industry. But Yes, it was really the toughest task for me to work in a Bar. Because I belong to a family which is fully against to this word "ALCOHOL". And this was something where my hopes started fading.
I was inspired and propelled essentially by legend Indian bartenders Mr.Hemant Pathak and Mr.Devendra Sehgal. I always wanted to be like them. They also came from very small or poor family and now they both are recognized as the best Bartenders of the world.
Then this went on like this only, time changed and I got my first job offer. Somehow I managed to tell this truth to my parents. Then they started showing perturbance that I'll be addicted to alcohol, they were worried about the society because it is not so common in villages. Hardly people go for Hotel Management and so many other bla bla situations.
Even situation was critical to that extent, my mother refused to talk to me and she did not actually had any word with me for some starting months. Only there was one person who stood by me, my best friend Kailash Rana. He used to say " Dude it's your life, do whatever you think is right for you, not what people want you to do.
Finally I started my journey with Taj Hotel as a Butler but couldn't do well there because my ultimate passion was Bar. Then I came to Delhi for pursuing Craft Course in Bar Tending from an institution known by the name of "Cocktail & Dreams". Post the completion of this course, I joined Park Plaza Hotel Chandigarh as a Bartender. After gaining some experience I moved The Westin Hotel Gurgaon and where my actual journey took a fire. I learnt a lot of facts about Bar from the Westin's team and made myself ready for new upcoming challenge.
That good time which I was waiting for since a long, finally knocked at my door and I got an opportunity to attend MAISON (Bar Tending Mannual by Pernod Ricard). There again I faced some hard time but that did pay off.
I still remember my life cycle:- Class Timings were 08:00 am to 04:00 pm and then straight to work from 04:30 pm to 04:00 am, sleep for 2-3 hours and again wake up for the class at 08:00 am.
But rightly said, "If you want your dreams to come true, you will have to wake up first". And same thing happened in my case, I got an opportunity to showcase my skills in "WORLD CLASS 2016″ championship and accomplished the most prestigious title " BAR TENDER OF THE YEAR 2016″. It was really a proud feeling for me to represent my nation (India) on international levels @ Miami in U.S.A.
My dictionary falls short here to express those feelings. It was happening very first time that I was experiencing a limelight. My eyes were full of tears, watching my dreams alive. And the best thing which happened, my family got trust on my abilities and finally I heard that amazing word from my Dad "I'M PROUD OF YOU MY SON". What could be better than this? my family was with me, I had overcome my Bar dream.
Thank you so much readers and Jeet for this inspiring success story. We wish you all the very best for your future endeavours. You were reading this story at HimBuds.com .
"भीड़ हमेशा उस रास्ते पर चलती है जो रास्ता आसान लगता है, लेकिन इसका मतलब यह नहीं की भीड़ हमेशा सही रास्ते पर चलती है| अपने रास्ते खुद चुनिए क्योंकि आपको आपसे बेहतर और कोई नहीं जानता|"
Interviewed By:- Virender Singh Rana
A Cocktail Recipe Shared By Jeet Rana
Tanqueray (Gin) 50 ml
Campari10 mlTurmeric oleo schrumms 40 ml
Egg White 10 ml
Spiced Bitter 3 dashes
Double shake and serve in chilled coupte glass. Garnish with orange and turmeric
Read more about Bar Tender Of The Year:- A Journey From Pauri Gharwal Village, Uttarakhand to Miami U.S.A. …
Bloody Mary Cocktail Recipe, How to prepare a perfect Bloody Mary
BLOODY MARY A Bloody Mary is a cocktail containing vodka, tomato juice, and combinations of other spices and flavorings including Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, piri piri sauce, beef consommé or bouillon, horseradish, celery, olives, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, lemon juice and/or celery salt. IBA Official Cocktail A Bloody Mary garnished with lemon, carrot, celery, […]
THE NEGRONI Cocktail Recipe, How to make a perfect Negroni
THE NEGRONI Type Cocktail Primary alcohol by volume Gin Vermouth Campari Served On the rocks; poured over ice Standard garnish Orange slice Standard drinkware Old Fashioned glass IBA specified ingredients* 3 cl gin 3 cl sweet red vermouth 3 cl campari Preparation Stir into glass over ice, garnish and serve. The Negroni cocktail is made […]
Hot Lips: Cocktail Recipe+ Top 25 Cocktails of the World
CHILI CHOCOLATE HOT LIPS THE NO-FRILLS SIPPER If complicated cocktails aren't your thing (or you refuse to admit they're your thing), we've got you covered with this three ingredient drink that packs a punch. A simple yet strong combination of Kahlua Chili Chocolate and Vodka, this is a go-to for the seasoned drinker. HOW TO […]
Mind Eraser: Cocktail Recipe
A few really cool things came out of the 80's, giant cell phones,
massive perms, guilty pleasure music and this 80's hit.
For a unique combination of a shot and a drink:
use a straw, start at the bottom and make sure to experience the layers one after the other.
Important, fill the glass with ice to the brim. Add Kahlua, then vodka and top off with club soda. This is a layered drink, don't let the clear liquids fool you. Tip: Don't stir it up, let the layers rest in peace.
Black Russian: Cocktail Recipe
Legend has it that the Black Russian was created in 1949, honoring a memorable hostess whose parties were legendary amongst the brightest stars. Create your own legendary moments with this easy to make cocktail. Simple to mix, impossible to forget.
Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add the booze, mix and enjoy your very own Black Russian.
Click here for more recipes: himbuds.com/category/food-trends/
Cuba Libre: Cocktail Recipe
Cuba Libre Simple, delicious and so much more than just a rum and cola, the Cuba Libre probably dates back to 1900, a few months after a new-fangled drink called cola arrived in Cuba. Ingredients 50ml- Rum 125ml- Cola 1wedge(s)-Lime 1- Lime Equipments 1 x-Tall glass 1 x-Ice 1 x-Jigger How to make Fill a tall glass […]
Blue Lagoon: Cocktail Recipe
Blue Lagoon A brilliant, turquoise 1970s classic, the Blue Lagoon may look and sound tropical, but it's a deliciously tangy, citrus harmony of vodka, blue curaçao and lemonade. Ingredients 50ml- Vodka 25ml- Blue Curaçao Liqueur 150ml- Lemonade 1slice- Lemon Equipments 1 x-Strainer 1 x-Cocktail-Shaker 1 x-Jigger 1 x-Ice How to make Fill a highball glass with cubes of ice. […]


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PAPod 179 - Food Safety and Safety Differently - Sarah Taber - Food To Taber Fellow Podcaster
Dr. Sarah Taber began crop consulting in 2006. Her work since then has focused on regulatory compliance (including food safety), IPM, crop care, and making work flows as efficient as possible in farms and facilities. Through ongoing work as a food safety auditor, Dr. Taber has developed an expert "inspector's eye" for potential issues in a facility or blueprint before they cause problems during operation.
Dr. Taber has also enjoyed serving as Director of Food Safety for the Aquaponics Association since 2013. This role has led to some extraordinary opportunities– being on the front line of an emerging market, cutting-edge research, and policy development for the aquaponics industry.
When not working with clients or developing aquaponics-friendly agricultural policy, Sarah Taber enjoys spending time with her family and contributing to the inevitable heat death of the universe at the gym.
Listen to this podcast.
Best Safety Podcast, Safety Program, Safety Storytelling, Investigations, Human Performance, Safety Differently, Operational Excellence, Resilience Engineering, Safety and Resilience Incentives
Give this a listen.
Thanks for listening and tell your friends. See you in a Herb farm, someplace.


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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Sense the emotion and determination of our forefathers who fought for our freedom and independence. Join Sam Adams and his Fellow Patriots in a Rendezvous with history!
The Boston Tea Party was "the single most important event leading up to the American Revolution." Opening in June of 2012, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Is dedicated to telling the story of that fateful night of December 16, 1773.
By combining cutting edge interactive technology with live historical performances, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum® offers an experience like no other. Throw tea overboard with the daring Sons of Liberty! Explore two historically restored tall ships! Gaze at the Robinson Half-Chest, one of only two surviving tea chests from the Boston Tea Party. Be inspired by the film "Let It Begin Here" in the Minuteman Theatre and learn the role that you will play in one of the most important events in American history.
In addition to the museum, visit our breathtaking Abigail's Tea Room where you can enjoy freshly baked goods, a spot of tea and learn more about the types of tea thrown overboard in 1773. Learn about the proper brewing process. (Additional cost to enter Abigail's Tea Room). And don't miss our enchanting Gift Shop chock full of gems to bring back home!
Connect with Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Redemption Instructions
Sharing Options
Participating locations include:
Boston, MA 2210


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Negotiation's Newest Purpose
PurchTips edition #41
More Than A Way To Get The Best Deal
Traditionally, the purpose of negotiation was simple: use persuasion techniques and leverage to get the best deal for your organization which, presumably, is less than the best deal for your counterpart.
And there is no doubt that getting a good deal is vitally important and that negotiation is a key way to get a good deal. But, in today's supply management environment, negotiation is more than a game to determine a winner.
A prominent characteristic of today's supply management environment is the focus on developing healthy supplier relationships for competitive advantage. When do these healthy relationships start? After doing business for 10 years? After collaboration on a joint project? After the first supplier performance review?
No. These relationships start at the negotiation table. The side-by-side collaboration inherent in negotiation enables you to observe several things about a supplier. These observations can help you decide whether the supplier is an appropriate long-term partner.
Here are some questions that can help you determine how well a supplier will integrate into your organization:
- Is the supplier interested in my long-term success?
- Is the supplier able to make decisions quickly or is there a "behind-closed-doors" decision process?
- Is the supplier flexible or does the supplier insist on doing business according to its own business model?
Asking these types of questions can help you predict how the relationship will work after the first purchase order is issued. You may see some promising signs. You may see some warning signals. Don't ignore them.
Believe it or not, the supplier may be observing similar things about you. The supplier may perceive you as having the potential of being a "high maintenance customer" and pad its pricing accordingly.
As you see, negotiation has taken on a new role. So view your next negotiation as the first step in a long-term relationship. It will help you select a supplier that is best for the future of your organization.
Do You Want a More Rewarding Procurement Career?
Are you tired of not getting enough opportunities, respect, and money out of your procurement career? Well, guess what? Nothing will change unless you take action towards becoming a world-class procurement professional.
Earning your SPSM® Certification is the action to take if you want to bring the most modern procurement practices into your organization and achieve your career potential. Download the SPSM® Certification Guide today to learn how to get started on your journey to a more rewarding procurement career!
Need Better Performance From Your Procurement Team?
Are you a procurement leader whose team isn't achieving the results you know are possible? Maybe it's not enough cost savings. Or frustrating performance from the supply base. Or dissatisfied internal customers.
You need a performance improvement plan that's easy to implement and quick to produce results. The NLPA can help.
Download our whitepaper "The Procurement Leader's Guide To A More Successful Team." You'll learn the 7 steps for transforming your staff into a results-producing, world-class procurement team.
Are You Getting The Most Out of Your NLPA Membership?
Members of the NLPA get more than just articles like this by email. As a member, you also get access to:
- The Procurement Training & Certification Starter Kit
- The latest Purchasing & Supply Management Salaries Report
- Leading-Edge Supply Management™ magazine
- Members-only webinars 10x per year
- And more!
If you haven't been taking advantage of these benefits, why not log in and start now?
Copyright 2004. This article is the property of Next Level Purchasing and may not be copied or republished in any form without the express written consent of Next Level Purchasing.
Click here to request republishing permission.
By Charles Dominick, SPSM, SPSM2, SPSM3
Other Editions of PurchTips:
|« 40 Charles' 2004 Purchasing Predictions
|42 Guide To International Negotiation Planning »


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This phase in the record lifecycle is the most difficult to define and control This phase in the record lifecycle is the most difficult to define and control
Records' evidential value often far exceeds their informational value. During the semi-active stage, we need to consider record survey, retention of the audit trail, retention management, and records appraisal.
- Record survey (information audit). We need to conduct a comprehensive audit of all records held covering the processes which create them, and measures to manage them. This is a large undertaking, but yields significant benefits. It is the first and most important step towards gaining control of records. Other benefits include: finding unnecessary duplication of records, streamlining business processes, determining where records are held for too long, identifying areas where training in records management is required, finding vital records, establishing economies of scale, and defining preservation requirements.
- Retention management. A retention schedule is a list of records for which a known destruction date exists. The aim of the record survey is to find those categories of record for which there is a disposal date, and to determine how long to retain records to satisfy operational, legal, regulatory purposes.
Records should be kept for as long as their contents have operational value, and required as evidence of transactions. Keeping records costs the institution money (storage, physical space, FOI).
Under the Data Protection Act 1998 (principle 5), we cannot keep records with personal data longer than for the stated purpose for which it was obtained. It is therefore recommended that we adopt and adapt the JISC HE retention schedule . When selecting IT systems, we should consider how retention will be handled.
We should take steps to prevent unauthorised access and accidental loss, destruction or damage to personal data (DPA principle 7). This applies through the lifecycle, but it is in semi-active that it tends to get forgotten. We could consider adopting a clear desk policy, where staff are asked to lock away confidential or sensitive information.