Painsomnia

Painsomnia is when you're in too much pain to sleep. I've had a nasty head cold lately (and a beauty of a cold sore) and when I'm sick my body pain level usually skyrockets. The last few nights I've been in bed trying everything I can to get to sleep. Night time cold medicine, Ibuprofen PM... nothing seems to help.

When my pain gets this bad I usually just try and distract myself into a state of ultra sleepiness by messing around on my iPhone. Pinterest is my go-to. I found myself doing some last minute Christmas shopping last night. "Design Home" is my favorite app. I've played it for years. I find it relaxing and a fun way to unwind. 

If I'm getting busy brain or feeling worried looking at animal "pins" or humor is helpful. Baby animals cure everything. 

My sweet girl is also helpful. 

I can't force sleep. She will come when she's ready. Bottom line is I'm lucky to not have to get up and go to work on only a few hours sleep. It really screws me up. If I'm up late with painsomnia I feel super dizzy and foggy headed the next day. I will also likely have a migraine. 

I'm lucky not to have this happen every night, but it does seem to happen back to back nights when it does come up. Being sick with a bug is almost always a guarantee that it will happen. It also seriously affects my mood. Bah Humbug!

Keeping Distracted

My wonderful employer is taking everyone to Hawaii in January. Saturday I just wanted to get out of the house and do something fun, so the hubby and I decided to go searching for snorkel equipment. We've never been snorkeling before, but are excited to give it a try. We pride ourselves in being adventurous and planning an adventure is a good way to take my mind off... well... my mind. More specifiably, my brain tumor(s) (which I have yet to name.) 

My husband is more interested in the traditional snorkel gear, while I'm more in the "float face down like a bloated corpse" camp. I've read great reviews on these full face snorkels. It was helpful to go to an actual scuba shop and try them on though. They didn't have this "Miss Piggy pink" in my size, but they're ordering me one. (insert squeal of excitement here.)

I also distracted myself by calling a friend I haven't spoken to in a very long time. I have a bad habit of online shopping while I'm on the phone. I don't always buy something, but this time I did. I found a company called "Love Your Melon" who makes these adorable hats (and blankets.) I just loved the idea of wearing this soft, cozy hat after my (potential) brain surgery. And even if I don't need surgery, I still need to love my melon.

50% of proceeds from the company go to help fight childhood cancer.

On Friday before I even knew about the brain tumor(s) I bought myself this mermaid pendant. I've had my eye on it for a month, but had to save up to get it. I thought it was a beautiful way to mark getting my first "real" wheelchair. The medical equipment company is sending a rep to my house on Thursday to measure me and help me pick out an electric chair. This necklace is the first mermaid I've seen who doesn't have long flowing hair, but who also has some sass. Just like me. I love her. 

Now that I've been diagnosed with a brain tumor(s) I'm sure my insurance company won't give it a second thought about covering my electric chair 100%. So that's a bit off my mind (get it? Hahah!) I'm looking forward to meeting the rep and hearing more about my options.

My husband has been amazing (as always) and has also been so helpful at keeping me distracted this weekend. It's been a weekend full of back rubs, hugs and extra loves and support. He didn't even flinch when I insisted I needed a $25 ZZ Plant for my office. What a guy!

We're hoping to learn more today about the tumor(s) and what's to come. But in the meantime I'm focusing on the now and keeping busy. 

NOTE: I'm not affiliated with any of these links and I didn't receive any compensation for sharing their information in any way.