My RA is different now than it was in earlier years. Now I feel like I am in a continual flare with variations. Sometimes worse. Sometimes much worse.  And luckily, sometimes better.  Today it is worse.

I take tramadol and add 500mg ibuprofen. I take an extra Medrol.

The amount of cannabis that I tolerate is improving and does help most days.

I am very conservative. My primary orders the tramadol. Tramadol is a weak, synthetic opioid. It helps me but doesn’t help every RA sufferer.  My rheumatologist has agreed to my Medrol regime. I feel low dose ibuprofen helps inflammation as does cannabis.

My son made pancakes this morning. Excellent. Cheered me up. Yesterday we went to Sprouts to buy a turkey breast.

I am struggling with losing my sight. I take the AREDS 2 vitamins that help slow eye disease and I take moisturizing eye drops to keep them moist. I wear sunglasses when I go out.

We have had the balloon fiesta, Halloween, and Elections. Next is Thanksgiving, peppered with birthdays. Then Christmas follows quickly. Then it will be my birthday again.

Francis went to the groomers again. I think his fur is too short this time. He was cold during the night. On his belly curled in a tight ball. Maybe its time to buy him pajamas. His hair grows thick and long. He looks adorable until it starts to mat. He is a cockapoo, half cocker, half poodle. No he does not shed into the environment. He still sheds and that is why his hair mats. His shedded hair stays on his body. Francis is my first high maintenance dog and he is worth it. He is napping beside me waiting for his lunch.