Since every trip out of the house is now a logistical adventure, I have tried to make each experience as fun and low stress as possible. As such, I try to think ahead, identify things I have needed in the past and squirrel them away so that I’m prepared and I try to look capable in my movements. I know it may seem like a silly thing, but I don’t want people to look at me and pity me because of all of the equipment and necessary steps for me to go about simple daily tasks.

For those of you who know me, I have always been one for a cheap thrill! I am a terrible gambler because that kind of risk does not interest me, but I love me a trip to the arcade. I get the joy of playing games and the bonus of winning tickets, so that I can redeem them for things that I might never have splurged on myself. Thanks to the Boardwalk Arcade in my hometown of Sea Isle City, New Jersey, I now have a collection of designer bags and accessories. Things that I would never go into a store and buy, but I feel so very special and extravagant when I am able to redeem my points for such things!

The video above is a peek into my new Kate Spade mini backpack which has taken the place of a purse since I cannot wear anything across my body as it gets tangled with my oxygen cord. But at present I also wear my oxygen in a sling bag because that’s how the canisters are designed, so a backpack is a great help!

And though I now recognize that my lung function has been diminishing over the last 2 years, there is one thing that remains constant: the effectiveness of Vicks VapoCool cough drops for getting my lung inflammation to subside, if ever briefly. They come in three flavors and a sugar-free, I have my own preferences but I do like to mix it up because somehow they feel more effective that way. Considering we are coming up on cold and flu season, I felt that my public service announcement was warranted. Take it from someone who coughs a lot that these are a great development in modern medicine!

Exciting developments for this weekend as I believe my Independence is imminent! Keep your eye out for that excited blog when the time comes. Have a great weekend everybody!