It's been several years since I have had new glasses and thought it was time to get new spectacles. I went to vision works last night and was very impressed with the staff.
When I made the initial appointment I let them know I was a person with a disability, and used a power wheelchair for mobility. Exam rooms are typically very small and I cannot transfer into another chair for the exam. I have to take the eye test in my wheelchair.
The doctor and staff were very accommodating from the moment I entered the store. They assisted me with filling out the forms and moved the standard chair in the exam room prior to my arrival , making wheelchair access extremely easy.
I picked out two pair of glasses, one for every day, and a pair of sunglasses. Normally they can make glasses in one hour, but I have a pretty tricky prescription.
I could have stayed the extra hour and picked up my sunglasses but my regular glasses will not be available till next week. So I chose just to wait and I will pick up both pair next week, pictures will follow.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
The Season Is Over
Last night the Pittsburgh Penguins lost to Tampa Bay 1 to 0, in game seven of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Game seven should never have been necessary, the Penguins lead the series 3 to 1 and allowed Tampa Bay to battle back and eventually win.
It's very clear why the Penguins lost, our power play scored only one goal in 35 attempts . But it's not just the power play that cost us the series. It is the inability to put the puck in the net during 5 on 5 play as well...
Losing two of the best players in hockey ( Crosby and Malkin ) was devastating and it's quite the accomplishment that the team finished as well as they did. That being said, I truly was not ready for my hockey season to end.
I have no idea how bad the concussion was that Crosby suffered. I wish more information would have been disclosed regarding his exact condition . Hockey players are known for playing hurt and being the toughest players in professional sports .
I would like to think that if Crosby had any chance to play he would have. Losing game seven by 1 goal, getting shut out on home ice is something that never would've happened if Crosby and Malkin were on the ice....
It's going to take a few months to recover from this loss , probably about the time hockey season starts again in Pittsburgh.
It's very clear why the Penguins lost, our power play scored only one goal in 35 attempts . But it's not just the power play that cost us the series. It is the inability to put the puck in the net during 5 on 5 play as well...
Losing two of the best players in hockey ( Crosby and Malkin ) was devastating and it's quite the accomplishment that the team finished as well as they did. That being said, I truly was not ready for my hockey season to end.
I have no idea how bad the concussion was that Crosby suffered. I wish more information would have been disclosed regarding his exact condition . Hockey players are known for playing hurt and being the toughest players in professional sports .
I would like to think that if Crosby had any chance to play he would have. Losing game seven by 1 goal, getting shut out on home ice is something that never would've happened if Crosby and Malkin were on the ice....
It's going to take a few months to recover from this loss , probably about the time hockey season starts again in Pittsburgh.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Lost Wallet
So yesterday I roll into Starbucks and order an iced tea when suddenly I realize I did not have my wallet with me.......Freak
I hardly carry any cash (note to would-be robbers ) but my drivers license and Starbucks card is in there ! The barrister was very nice and said it happens all the time don't worry about it, just pay the next time you're in .
Then the lady in front of me, a complete stranger bought my iced tea ... That was so nice of her, it was not the price of the tea but her act of kindness that impressed me .
The OCD in me was freaking out about where my wallet could be, I made a few phone calls retracing my steps ( that's funny , steps) and eventually found out it was at home where I left it.
I'm very thankful I didn't lose my wallet and thankful for the stranger who bought my iced tea!
I hardly carry any cash (note to would-be robbers ) but my drivers license and Starbucks card is in there ! The barrister was very nice and said it happens all the time don't worry about it, just pay the next time you're in .
Then the lady in front of me, a complete stranger bought my iced tea ... That was so nice of her, it was not the price of the tea but her act of kindness that impressed me .
The OCD in me was freaking out about where my wallet could be, I made a few phone calls retracing my steps ( that's funny , steps) and eventually found out it was at home where I left it.
I'm very thankful I didn't lose my wallet and thankful for the stranger who bought my iced tea!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Frustration
I am so frustrated over the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey game last night. The Penguins were leading the series at one time 3 to 1.
After last nights loss, Tampa Bay has tied the series 3 to 3. Forcing game seven Wednesday night.
I will be very disappointed if the Penguins do not move on to the second round. I'm definitely not ready for my hockey season to end. They better find a way to win Wednesday night. Let's go pens!
After last nights loss, Tampa Bay has tied the series 3 to 3. Forcing game seven Wednesday night.
I will be very disappointed if the Penguins do not move on to the second round. I'm definitely not ready for my hockey season to end. They better find a way to win Wednesday night. Let's go pens!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Nicole Chauvet Scholarship Foundation
On Saturday I ran into a large group of individuals on a pub crawl , they were raising money for the Nicole Chauvet scholarship foundation .
Nicole was a cheerleader at Canon McMillan high school and later at Penn State University. She was killed in a car accident last year. Her friends and family have set up a scholarship foundation and could use any donation you could make.
Nicole was a cheerleader at Canon McMillan high school and later at Penn State University. She was killed in a car accident last year. Her friends and family have set up a scholarship foundation and could use any donation you could make.
Internet Explorer Nine
This morning I downloaded and installed Internet Explorer 9. I really like the new look of Explorer.
I am able to view more of the website with less junk on my screen. It also seems faster at least to me. Are you currently using Internet Explorer 9 ?
I am able to view more of the website with less junk on my screen. It also seems faster at least to me. Are you currently using Internet Explorer 9 ?
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
Earth Day Giveaways
Today enjoy a free cup of coffee at Starbucks or Caribou coffee if you bring in your own travel mug! Just thought I would pass that along to all my caffeine addicted friends.... enjoy your day !
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Pittsburgh Penguins Win in 2nd OT
I'm a little tired today after staying up late watching the Pittsburgh Penguins defeat Tampa Bay in double overtime 3 to 2.
In my opinion the Penguins completely dominated most of the game, it was only through luck that Tampa Bay tied the game. I also want to say that the referees were terrible last night. Absolutely terrible.
James Neal scored the winning goal in double overtime. James scored his second goal of the year as a penguin and it could not have been bigger. I'm not a huge fan of James Neal but I have to say he certainly got the job done in Tampa Bay last night.
The Penguins now have a 3 to 1 series lead and can knock Tampa Bay out of the Stanley Cup playoffs this Saturday afternoon on home ice.
Let's Go Pens !
In my opinion the Penguins completely dominated most of the game, it was only through luck that Tampa Bay tied the game. I also want to say that the referees were terrible last night. Absolutely terrible.
James Neal scored the winning goal in double overtime. James scored his second goal of the year as a penguin and it could not have been bigger. I'm not a huge fan of James Neal but I have to say he certainly got the job done in Tampa Bay last night.
The Penguins now have a 3 to 1 series lead and can knock Tampa Bay out of the Stanley Cup playoffs this Saturday afternoon on home ice.
Let's Go Pens !
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Who Reads PittRehab
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I Love My Dog
I know a lot of people are quick to use the L word.... if you know me I'm not one of them (I hear you laughing and I know who you are).
When I say it, I mean it and let me tell you I love my dog. As I write this Misty Morning is curled up tight beside my wheelchair happily sleeping. I'm sitting at my kitchen counter and she wedged herself between the counter and my wheel just to lay next to me...
We are certainly bonding and she is becoming very attentive to what I need and when I need it. It's a very special bond we share, one between a person with a disability and his or her service dog. I'm definitely her person and she takes her work seriously.
When I say it, I mean it and let me tell you I love my dog. As I write this Misty Morning is curled up tight beside my wheelchair happily sleeping. I'm sitting at my kitchen counter and she wedged herself between the counter and my wheel just to lay next to me...
We are certainly bonding and she is becoming very attentive to what I need and when I need it. It's a very special bond we share, one between a person with a disability and his or her service dog. I'm definitely her person and she takes her work seriously.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Tuesday catch-up
The last few days my neck and shoulders were really bothering me so I took a little time away from the laptop. So let's try to catch up on my adventures and ramblings.
I had a few friends over Friday evening to watch the penguin game, we all know how that game turned out... but at least it was fun watching with friends.
Saturday it was raining, so I thought it would be a good day to go to the mall and give Misty Morning some exercise indoors. We ended up at Gander Mountain looking at diaphragm turkey calls.
She is an excellent shopping partner. I was able to knock the calls off of the shelf onto the floor, which she quickly retrieved and placed onto my laptop tray. Teamwork.
Sunday I made this little video for my accessible hunter blog. And basically practiced calling a few times throughout the day. I had a good time, but I'm sure I was annoying everyone else.
Monday afternoon my friend Jim came over with my eight point buck. He finished with the taxidermy and mounted the deer head on my wall. The eight point is the one in the middle.
Monday evening I watched the Pittsburgh Penguins defeat the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2, giving the Penguins a two to one lead in the series.
The next game is Wednesday evening in Tampa Bay. I along with 101,000 other Penguins fans will be watching the game on TV.
Today it's raining like a monsoon, nothing much to do but stay inside and work on basic drills with Misty Morning.
I had a few friends over Friday evening to watch the penguin game, we all know how that game turned out... but at least it was fun watching with friends.
Saturday it was raining, so I thought it would be a good day to go to the mall and give Misty Morning some exercise indoors. We ended up at Gander Mountain looking at diaphragm turkey calls.
She is an excellent shopping partner. I was able to knock the calls off of the shelf onto the floor, which she quickly retrieved and placed onto my laptop tray. Teamwork.
Sunday I made this little video for my accessible hunter blog. And basically practiced calling a few times throughout the day. I had a good time, but I'm sure I was annoying everyone else.
Monday afternoon my friend Jim came over with my eight point buck. He finished with the taxidermy and mounted the deer head on my wall. The eight point is the one in the middle.
Monday evening I watched the Pittsburgh Penguins defeat the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2, giving the Penguins a two to one lead in the series.
The next game is Wednesday evening in Tampa Bay. I along with 101,000 other Penguins fans will be watching the game on TV.
Today it's raining like a monsoon, nothing much to do but stay inside and work on basic drills with Misty Morning.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Playoff Beard For Charity
I started to grow my playoff beard and it will not be long before the hair on my face is longer than the hair on my head, lol.
If you would like to donate to the Mario Lemieux Foundation for PittRehab click the link, then pledge for pittrehab, my goal is $100.00 .
So far it's not itching, which is always a good thing. It's my little way of supporting the Pittsburgh Penguins and their run at the Stanley Cup Championship. The Cup is absolutely the toughest trophy to win in professional sports.
How about you, will you be growing your playoff beard ? Donating?
If you would like to donate to the Mario Lemieux Foundation for PittRehab click the link, then pledge for pittrehab, my goal is $100.00 .
So far it's not itching, which is always a good thing. It's my little way of supporting the Pittsburgh Penguins and their run at the Stanley Cup Championship. The Cup is absolutely the toughest trophy to win in professional sports.
How about you, will you be growing your playoff beard ? Donating?
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Stanley Cup Playoffs
Last night the Pittsburgh Penguins took on the Tampa Bay Lightning here in Pittsburgh to start the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The atmosphere at the Consol Energy Center was dare I say " Charged ", even " Electrifying ". The Penguins called for a white out and the entire Center was waving white towels, but the Penguins did anything but surrender.
Tampa Bay has former Pittsburgh Penguin Ryan Malone (number six), one of my favorite players when he wore a Penguin uniform. He played last night's game hard in front of the net, just like we loved when he did it for our team.
Some of the fans booed Malone, that's something I would never do. He's a local guy, grew up in the Burgh and played his heart out in a penguin uniform. And as you can see he still loves the game.
But once again the star of last night's show was Marc Andre Fleury, who registered a shutout giving the Penguins a 3 to 0 win and setting the tone for this playoff series.
The Stanley Cup is 35 pounds of silver but takes an entire team to lift, last night every member of the Pittsburgh Penguins was pulling their weight. If they keep working hard I see silver in their future, Let's Go Pens !
The atmosphere at the Consol Energy Center was dare I say " Charged ", even " Electrifying ". The Penguins called for a white out and the entire Center was waving white towels, but the Penguins did anything but surrender.
Tampa Bay has former Pittsburgh Penguin Ryan Malone (number six), one of my favorite players when he wore a Penguin uniform. He played last night's game hard in front of the net, just like we loved when he did it for our team.
Some of the fans booed Malone, that's something I would never do. He's a local guy, grew up in the Burgh and played his heart out in a penguin uniform. And as you can see he still loves the game.
But once again the star of last night's show was Marc Andre Fleury, who registered a shutout giving the Penguins a 3 to 0 win and setting the tone for this playoff series.
The Stanley Cup is 35 pounds of silver but takes an entire team to lift, last night every member of the Pittsburgh Penguins was pulling their weight. If they keep working hard I see silver in their future, Let's Go Pens !
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
The Stanley Cup Playoffs
Tomorrow the Pittsburgh Penguins begin their quest for Lord Stanley's Cup against Tampa Bay. The game starts at 7 PM and the big screen will be in operation outside Mellon Arena for those fans who do not have tickets.
Thank God I have tickets for all the playoff games ! Look for me wearing my old school number 66 Mario Lemieux white jersey. The Penguins are calling for a white out, to start the series and I am so ready for playoff hockey.
I believe the Penguins can beat Tampa Bay and will move on to the second round. I also believe Sidney Crosby will be playing some time in the playoffs.... Matt Cooke is still suspended until the second round.
After all the adversity that the Pittsburgh Penguins have had this year, raising the cup is still a distinct possibility! I believe the Penguins are the best team in hockey and I would love to see this image once again.
Thank God I have tickets for all the playoff games ! Look for me wearing my old school number 66 Mario Lemieux white jersey. The Penguins are calling for a white out, to start the series and I am so ready for playoff hockey.
I believe the Penguins can beat Tampa Bay and will move on to the second round. I also believe Sidney Crosby will be playing some time in the playoffs.... Matt Cooke is still suspended until the second round.
After all the adversity that the Pittsburgh Penguins have had this year, raising the cup is still a distinct possibility! I believe the Penguins are the best team in hockey and I would love to see this image once again.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Monday Catch up
This weekend I was in North Carolina watching my nephew play lacrosse at Mars Hill College . It was Senior Day, which Adam is so we went down to watch him play.
It was a beautiful drive down through West Virginia, Virginia, and Tennessee before we arrived in Mars Hill North Carolina. Prior to my injury I worked in many of these locations and it was nice to revisit the area.
The mountain ranges provide spectacular views, the highways are smooth and pothole free making for a great road trip. I imagine it is breathtaking in the fall and possibly very dangerous in the winter.
Mars Hill is a very small town, that was accessible and nice to roll around. I did some shopping at the college bookstore ( I had to buy a lacrosse shirt ) and ate at the local delicatessen.
When it came time for the game on Saturday afternoon, it was a bit challenging finding the accessible entrance. By chance I ran into one of the athletic trainers who found the key to the gate and allowed me into the stadium.
After a few lightning delays, the game was finally on. Mars Hill defeated Queens 8 to 7. Adams team scored the winning goal with only 38 seconds remaining. Adam plays defense, and it was great to watch him play live.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Josh Thompson
Someone is definitely responsible, I blame it on the Grateful Dead and Jack Daniels, but my memories are a little cloudy...
Oh Jack the times we have had together, lol. We need to meet up again soon, this responsible lifestyle is highly overrated.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
UPS Spreading Joy and Happiness
The UPS guy that delivers to my house is fantastic. He always make sure my packages are delivered inside and he gives Misty a milk bone... how can you not love a guy like that.
But yesterday I am sure UPS drivers all through the Pittsburgh area were spreading joy and sunshine, because they were delivering Stanley Cup playoff tickets to Penguin season ticket holders !
That's right sports fans, it's playoff hockey time, throw away that Bic razor and start growing your playoff beard. Ladies, I'm not sure what you do, stop shaving, waxing, who knows.... lol
Is there any better time of the year? The only exception I can think of is the first day of archery season and that's not until fall... Let's Go Pens !
But yesterday I am sure UPS drivers all through the Pittsburgh area were spreading joy and sunshine, because they were delivering Stanley Cup playoff tickets to Penguin season ticket holders !
That's right sports fans, it's playoff hockey time, throw away that Bic razor and start growing your playoff beard. Ladies, I'm not sure what you do, stop shaving, waxing, who knows.... lol
Is there any better time of the year? The only exception I can think of is the first day of archery season and that's not until fall... Let's Go Pens !
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Misty's Favorite Toy
This Omega Ball is one of Misty's favorite toys, especially with a few Cheerios added. She throws this ball all over the house, rolling it with her nose. It definitely brightens up her day when she gets to play with her favorite toy. What does your dog like to play with?
A Lack of Respect
Last night we had another area police officer shot. The news is reporting he is in critical condition after undergoing surgery. He was responding to a home invasion and was shot through the arm into his torso under his bulletproof vest.
This happened on the day we in Pittsburgh were remembering the three police officers who were shot and killed in 2009. It seems to me that the number of police officers who are killed in the line of duty is on the rise.
I believe a contributing factor is the basic and fundamental lack of respect the younger generation has for authority (damn, I sound really old right now). It seems society is a much more violent place then when I was growing up...
I don't have any answers that would address cause-and-effect, it's just a very sad day to think I live in a society that shoots first in any situation .
This happened on the day we in Pittsburgh were remembering the three police officers who were shot and killed in 2009. It seems to me that the number of police officers who are killed in the line of duty is on the rise.
I believe a contributing factor is the basic and fundamental lack of respect the younger generation has for authority (damn, I sound really old right now). It seems society is a much more violent place then when I was growing up...
I don't have any answers that would address cause-and-effect, it's just a very sad day to think I live in a society that shoots first in any situation .
Monday, April 4, 2011
Trip to Lowes
Misty Morning and I made a trip to Lowes on Sunday afternoon to pick up some threaded pipe for another do-it-yourself project in wheelchairs 101.
Unfortunately I forgot to take one of the pieces so the pipe I bought is 1/4 inch too small..... freak. Now I have to find another day to return the pipe and get what I need to complete the project.
I feel like the whole trip was a waste of time and effort but at least I know exactly what I need now. When you are creating one-of-a-kind items from scratch (no blueprints) it takes a lot of trial, error and effort. It can be very frustrating for all involved. See the bad words floating above my head ?
Misty Morning did well, although I have to say she's not as attentive when working for Cheerios as she is when the reward is Oscar Mayer hot dogs.
Unfortunately I forgot to take one of the pieces so the pipe I bought is 1/4 inch too small..... freak. Now I have to find another day to return the pipe and get what I need to complete the project.
I feel like the whole trip was a waste of time and effort but at least I know exactly what I need now. When you are creating one-of-a-kind items from scratch (no blueprints) it takes a lot of trial, error and effort. It can be very frustrating for all involved. See the bad words floating above my head ?
Misty Morning did well, although I have to say she's not as attentive when working for Cheerios as she is when the reward is Oscar Mayer hot dogs.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Accessibility Discussion
The observer reporter printed my letter to the editor today which I am very grateful for. I feel it's important for everyone to be discussing accessibility and inclusion.
When I speak to college students I challenge them to become "Mobility Ambassadors". The fact is you do not have to have a disability to care about accessibility. I challenge the students to speak up for inclusion and accessibility when they see a problem.
How many times are you out and patronizing a restaurant, retail establishment etc. that is not accessible? Ask to speak to the manager, discuss the inaccessibility of the establishment and be an agent of change.
If we all spoke out about accessibility issues and the right to be included this world would be a much better place, at least for me.
When I speak to college students I challenge them to become "Mobility Ambassadors". The fact is you do not have to have a disability to care about accessibility. I challenge the students to speak up for inclusion and accessibility when they see a problem.
How many times are you out and patronizing a restaurant, retail establishment etc. that is not accessible? Ask to speak to the manager, discuss the inaccessibility of the establishment and be an agent of change.
If we all spoke out about accessibility issues and the right to be included this world would be a much better place, at least for me.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Lottery Winnings !
I had to wait for everything to go through my attorney before I could let any of my friends and family know that I recently won a very substantial amount (2.6 million after taxes) in the Pennsylvania Powerball !
I want you all to know that I'm extremely happy and fortunate. I plan on using the money to help others as well as myself. It's all really exciting as you can imagine, so for the next few weeks I will not be posting or checking e-mail. If you reach my cell phone before the in box is full, just leave me a message.
I plan on going to the Cape for a while and visiting my favorite beaches and winery.
I want you all to know that I'm extremely happy and fortunate. I plan on using the money to help others as well as myself. It's all really exciting as you can imagine, so for the next few weeks I will not be posting or checking e-mail. If you reach my cell phone before the in box is full, just leave me a message.
I plan on going to the Cape for a while and visiting my favorite beaches and winery.
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