Jazz Up Crutches or Walkers with Our Crutcheze Products!

These make GREAT gifts!

NEW! TRIBAL BLUE STETHOSCOPE COVER SET - Protect your stethoscope and create an anti-bacterial barrier with this two piece stethoscope cover set. Contains a cover for the ear piece section and a separate cover for the tubing section. Also available in Bubblegum Pink/Black and Carbon Grey/Black.
Item #CZCRU0605
Only $17.90









NEW! LEOPARD WALKER SIDE BAG - This stretch walker bag has a side pocket, is waterproof, stain resistant and bacteria resistant. Plenty of room for personal items, it is easy to care for and durable, too! Also available in Carbon Grey.
Item #CZCRU050L-LP
Only $24.92



















NEW! LEOPARD WALKER HANDGRIPS - Made from long-lasting anti-bacterial and moisture wicking material that acts as a barrier, reducing ordor and keeping skin dry. 4"W x 7"L, Fits standard walker grips. Set contains 2 handgrips. Also available in Carbon Grey.
Item #CZCRU030S-LP
Only $16.58

















PADS FOR UNDERARM CRUTCHES - Set contains 2 handgrip pads and 2 underarm pads, one size fits all standard crutches. Made from the finest materials that are resistant to body oils and perspiration. Padding has a high-tech contoured design that is body weight sensitive to provide superior support and extra comfort. Also available in Blue Tribal, Carbon Grey, Red Tribal, Purple Tribal, Turquiose, and Zebra.
Item #CZCRU010-RT
Only $31.82






















And last but not least....
CRUTCH BAG - This crutch bag is stretchable, lightweight, bacteria/fungus resistant, water proof, and stain resistant with lots of room for personal items such as water bottles, cell phones, keys and small wallets. This bag has one main pouch plus a side pocket for extra storage space.
Item #CZCRU050S
Only $22.73



















Click HERE to shop and save on Crutcheze products at Mountain View Medical Supply today!

Look What's New at Mountain View

Check out these new items we are offering at Mountain View Medical Supply:

For the medical professional - keep your hands free and your instruments handy with this belt loop Nylon Organizer. Available in Navy, Pink, Purple, Royal or White:



Item #PS730
Only $5.00 each



Also for the medical professional, this around the waist, Small Apron-Style Organizer keeps hands free while keeping instruments handier:





Item #PS652
Only $9.82














For effective pain and swelling management, Cold Rush for Knee provides constant cold application to the knee:






Item #RYB-232000011
Only $198.57




Visit our WEBSITE to shop for our full line of products!

Happy Thanksgiving!

OUR THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY HOURS ARE:

Thursday, November 25th - Closed
Friday, November 26th - Open 9am - 3pm
Saturday, November 27th - Closed

Here is the official list of things I am thankful for:

I am thankful that I am healthy and able bodied. Although my sanity is still in question.







My family and their health. They contribute to my questionable sanity, but I love them dearly!






My job. It affords me creativity (such as this blog). And a paycheck. And insurance. Many of us are going without one or both at this time.











Freedom. Especially as a woman, I try to remember that there are those that fear for their lives on a daily basis because they do not live in a free country, or in a country free from conflict.






Beauty and Love. These two things can be found in the darndest places. Remember to stop, take a moment and enjoy.


Have a wonderful Holiday!

How is YOUR Holiday Shopping Coming Along?

I really do not like the holiday shopping crowds. Inevitably, in the long and slow stream of people walking the mall, someone will stop to discuss their next destination, oblivious to everyone stopped, standing and staring right at them to moooooooooove out of the way. Or, the search for a parking spot within a mile of the nearest entrance.

I tried shopping on Black Friday once. ONCE. I talked my husband into getting up at 4am and hitting the stores to score those promised deals that were waiting for us. I thought it would be fun! Boy was I wrong. First of all, ShmarSmucks was not even open at 4am! And every store we attempted to go to had a long line. These are not your average long lines, these were 5 people wide and wound around to the back shipping docks of the buildings. Now I dont know about you, but if you cant see the end of the line, then you should put the car in park and wait comfortably in your car like you were waiting for a train at a crossing. The one store we did go into had an equally long line for the checkout registers. Im sorry, but I will pay the extra $2 for that DVD.

I have learned over time to shop BEFORE Thanksgiving, or to shop only on weeknights after Thanksgiving. Never, ever, ever go to the mall on the weekends unless you simply want to do some people watching, eat a giant pretzel and get a quick massage.

Or, you can simply shop online and expand your budget with the added shipping costs. How much is your time worth?

Being that this is the last weekend before the holiday frenzy, you will probably see me at the mall, and hopefully I will be able to say "Am I done with my holiday shopping? Heck yeah!"

Let the games begin!!

Dear Prudence - Noisy Ostomy

I came across this Dear Prudence letter and felt it needed to be republished.

Dear Prudence,

I am a Stage IV colon cancer survivor. The repair work that surgeons did was a disaster (through no fault of their own), and nine years after the original surgery the only apparent solution was a colostomy. I am careful about my diet, but sometimes this ''little guy" releases gas—almost always at the worst possible times (sigh). Yes, I am lucky I am alive and I have decided I can help others through a second career in nursing (at age 60). But I am in classes with 18-20 year-old females and, well, the ostomy occasionally makes gaseous noise. Any suggestions on how to handle this?
One suggestion was an "announcement" explanation before the class (cringe). I hope you have a better idea than that!

Dear, Noisy Ostomy,

How wonderful that you're starting on such an exciting adventure—congratulations! As Miss Manners, et. al., have pointed out there are noises we acknowledge (a sneeze) and those we don't (gaseous emissions). However, as I recall the wonderful etiquette writer Letitia Baldrige also went through colon cancer surgery and wrote about being at meetings where her insides were loudly making their presence known. She thought it was best to deal with this directly and said something like (I paraphrase), "Please excuse the noises, my internal organs are rebelling after surgery, and we'll just have to live with it," putting everyone else at ease. I don't think you need to stand in front of the class and make an announcement. But if your "little guy" is acting up, you can explain, "Ah, sounds from the deep. I had colon cancer many years ago, and sometimes my body wants to let everyone in the room know about it." You will be doing your young classmates a favor by being so upfront and comfortable about some of the medical issues they will be confronting.

Crazy Weather!

Yesterday, Colorado flexed its amazing weather muscles for us and we were literally polarized for a moment in time!

We started with a partly cloudy day that lasted until mid-afternoon.

As I headed home at about 3:30, I began my journey with a wall of weather headed my way. Maybe you have seen one of these - they are pretty ominous and you are guaranteed to get wet and worry about potential damage to your car.

Then, the wind hit with gusts up to 45mph, tossing leaves and other debris around, that had quietly gathered over the past several months.

Then came the rain, then snow, and then heavy snow, then rain again.

And as I got closer to the foothills, the clouds parted and showed me a beautiful new layer of snow mingled with the pinetrees on the mountains.

All of this happened during my 30 minute commute.

I have to say, I truly love Colorado! She keeps us on our toes, constantly gives us beautiful things to look at, and makes us appreciate the warm days she bestows upon us at random times.

New Ostomate Corner

by Mark Shaffer, Metro Denver
Via Hemet-San Jacinto, CA Evansville Ostomy Newsletter

At a recent chapter meeting, a subject came up that I found intriguing. One of the participants in the rap session stated that he found himself depressed and withdrawn even though it has been a year since his surgery. He wondered how long he could expect that feeling to last and, I think, whether it would go on for the rest of his life.

Some ostomates adjust almost immediately. These folks see an ostomy as a cure for an illness that threatened their lives or restricted their activities.

Others take a few months, generally feeling better about the situation as soon as they master the fine art of pouch changing and maintenance.

For many, ostomy surgery begins a process that appears, and is, very close to the grieving process, and like any grieving process, the amount of time needed to feel emotionally whole again will vary. It took me almost two years following my surgery before I felt like I had regained my former personality and was ready to move on with my life.

So there is no magic amount of time needed to adjust to your new ostomy. Allow yourself the time you need and realize that the feelings of depression and isoation will eventually go away.

If the depression is severe, dont be afraid to seek professional help.

If your isolation is caused by a lack of confidence in your appliance, seek help from an ET nurse*.

If your appliance is working fine but you still feel separated from others, seek help from other ostomates. Go to a meeting** and meet others in the same situation.

If you dont already have one, call your local chapter*** and get an ostomy visitor who can talk to you about how they managed their post-operative emotions.

But above all, give yourself time to adjust.

* ET Nurse is an Enterostomal Therapist, or a specialist trained in the care of individuals with stomas. Also called "WOCN" or a Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse.

** The United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA), has a WEBSITE where you can find a local chapter and their regular meeting dates and times.

*** Most local UOAA chapters offer monthly meetings, visitation programs and other support methods to local ostomates. Click HERE to find your local UOAA support group.

Buying Scrubs: A Retailers Perspective

We are into month three of selling scrubs and uniforms, and one aspect that most people dont think about is the process of selecting clothing lines to carry in our store.

While we also research, select and buy product for our medical supply side, the clothing side is much different. Manufacturer reps actually bring racks of clothes to our store and personally showcase their new lines to us. All but one person in our office is female. Put the two together and you will understand the level of excitement at this new perk!

Its almost like having a personal shopper, and who wouldnt love THAT?!

Except we dont get to keep what we buy.

After the rep finishes his showcase, we usually talk about what would work, not work, and try on a few things to see how they fit and feel. And we are at work while doing this! Are you jealous yet?

We hope that you enjoy the great "sacrifices" we make for you!

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Gait/Transfer Belts

What in the heck are these things, you ask?

Well, let us tell you!

A gait or transfer belt aids in the mobility or transfer of patients. Basically, its a belt you put around a person that gives you a steady and strong grip when moving a person who needs help, or cannot move themselves.

These belts come in a variety of styles. Select cotton or nylon belts, and metal or plastic buckles. Some buckles are quick release. Other belts have handles attached to them.

Prices start at just $12.99.

To shop our full line of gait/transfer belts click HERE.

APPLES!

In honor of the fall harvest season and the abundance of MORE types of apples available to us this time of year, here is some info to tickle your brain about America's favorite fruit!

Archeologists have found evidence that humans have been enjoying apples since at least 6500 B.C. and they are thought to have originated in an area between the Caspin and Black Sea.
Planting an apple seed from a particular apple will not product a tree of that same variety. The seed is a cross of the tree the fruit was grown on and the variety that was the cross pollinator.
Apples are a member of the rose family and it takes the energy from 50 leaves to produce one apple.
Apples have five seed pockets, or carpels and each pocket contains seeds. The number of seeds per carpel is determined by the vigor and health of the plant, and also the variety.

TOP 5 APPLE PRODUCING COUNTRIES
#1 China #2 European Union #3 United States
#4 Turkey #5 Russia

TOP 5 APPLE PRODUCING STATES
#1 Washington #2 New York #3 Michigan
#4 Pennsylvania #5 California

TOP 5 VARIETIES GROWN IN THE U.S.

#1 Red Delicious
Features a deep red skin with a sweeter flavored flesh.

#2 Gala
Features medium size, yellow/bright orange-red skin & firm, juicy, fine texture, sweet & slightly tart flavor.

#3 Golden Delicious
Features golden yellow skin with firm, crisp, juicy flavorful flesh that is mild and sweet.

#4 Granny Smith
Green skin with crisp and tart flesh.

#5 Fuji
Features yellowish/green skin w/orangish/red stripes. Crisp, juicy, slightly subacid flesh, great texture.

Staying Healthy & Active as You Age

People in the U.S. are living longer than ever before. Many seniors live active and healthy lives. But there's no getting around one thing: as we age, our bodies and minds change. There are things you can do to stay healthy and active as you age.

First is eating correctly and having a balanced diet. For seniors, the benefits of healthy eating include increased mental acuteness, resistance to illness and disease, higher energy levels, a more robust immune system, faster recuperation times and better management of chronic health problems. As we age, eating well can also be key to a positive outlook and staying emotionally balanced. Eating three small meals and two snacks per day that include fruits, vegetables, calcium, grains and proteins is key. Also seniors are prone to dehydration because bodies lose some of its ability to regulate fluid levels and our sense of thirst is dulled. Also medications can affect how and what you eat. Talk to your doctor about a healthy diet that is right for you.

Keeping mind and body active, and not smoking are also important. Emotional health affects physical health and in particular, our immune system can be damaged by poor mind health. Stimulating the brain with activity (puzzle games, reading, new learning experiences, daily conversation, meeting new people) shows a positive correlation with a healthy body. Spirit-health is also important and can include religious group participation, meditation, admiring nature’s beauty and reading thoughtful books, to name a few.

Be sure to get regular checkups. If you have several doctors and ongoing medical issues, keep a medical journal in a DayTimer type book. Record appointments, medications prescribed including dose, and any diagnosis. Take this DayTimer with you so you can reference the information at each appointment. Also keep a quick reference list of all medications and dosage handy and updated. Taking charge of your healthcare is important.

Practice safety habits at home and in the car. Remove any tripping hazards and make all floors and rugs slip resistant. Have an emergency plan to call for help, including in-home emergency call systems if needed. Keep a currently tested fire extinguisher, and regularly test smoke and carbon detectors. Equip bathrooms with movement aids such as grab bars, non slipping mats and shower chairs. Use a walking cane or walker to safely move around. Make sure all stairs have secure footing and handrails. Everyone ages differently, so some can drive a car in their 80’s and beyond, while others cannot and should not. The statistics on older adults and driving is sobering. Fatalities rise sharply for drivers over 70 so know when its time to stop. With the help of friends, family, community resources and personal initiative, you can remain mobile without driving.

Sources: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/seniorshealth.html; http://helpguide.org/life/senior_nutrition.htm; http://www.seniorcitizen journal.com/health-and-fitness/annual-physical-exam-for-seniors-mind-body-spirit/; http://www.helpguide.org/elder/senior_citizen_driving.htm

New Additions to the Laurel Website!

I'm going cross-eyed just for YOU!

Since the new and improved Laurel Uniform and Apparel website went Live, I have been diligently adding more and MORE products. Specifically, I have been adding more and MORE scrubs!

You will now find several Solid Scrub Pants, Solid Scrub Tops, Print Scrub Tops, Economy Scrub Pants, and more!

Check it out and let me know what you think! Keep in mind, its a work in progress with many more new additions to come!

Happy Monday, by the way!

Pulse Oximeters - Know for Less!

What exactly is a Pulse Oximeter, you ask?

Pulse Oximeters measure the oxygen level in your blood. They are a fairly simple device that you just clip on the end of your finger. Most people have seen these used in hospitals, but they are also available for home use as well.

I looked up why we need adequate oxygen levels in our blood and found this on Health.Harvard.Edu, and figure they must know what they are talking about:

"Your red blood cells must carry sufficient oxygen through your arteries to all of your internal organs to keep you alive. Normally, when red blood cells pass through the lungs, 95%-100% of them are loaded, or "saturated," with oxygen to carry. If you have lung disease or other types of medical conditions, fewer of your red blood cells may be carrying their usual load of oxygen, and your oxygen saturation might be lower than 95%."

So its kind of important.

Here is the GOOD NEWS: We just LOWERED OUR PRICES on Pulse Oximeters!!

Our Oxi-Go Premier Finger Pulse Oximeter was $79.93, NOW $59.90!
Our Oxi-Go Elite Finger Pulse Oximeter was $94.55, NOW $86.67!

Click HERE for more details and to begin shopping.

Angelic Pets

We have the sweetest new thing EVER. And I mean EVER!

Angelic Pet Pins are now available! The idea is that you or your veterinarian wear this pin when your beloved pet passes on and then you, as the owner, wear the pin in rememberance of your special companion.

These are super special items and are available in a dog with angel wings and halo, or a cat with angel wings and halo. Actual size is 3/4" x 7/8".





These make special sympathy gifts, especially for veterinarian offices.

Call 800-458-4683 to order yours today!

New Laurel Uniforms & Apparel Website is LIVE!

Ladies and Gentlemen, Kids of all ages! Come one, come all and see the latest and greatest uniform, scrubs and apparel website to hit the internet!

Thats, right! Our Laurel website went LIVE today!

And here is proof:



To visit our site, click Our New Laurel Website to start shopping for chef apparel and scrubs right now!

We would love any feedback, suggestions, comments: Email noreen.gardner@mvms.com

Check back daily as we are always adding more and more products!

One Month of Laurel Uniforms: How are We Doing?

We are officially one month into operating BOTH Mountain View Medical Supply and Laurel Uniforms & Apparel.

So, how are we doing?

All signs point to GOOD! But here is a snapshot of each week from the past month:

Week #1: Fear the phone! Which catalog has THOSE?! HOW do I process this order?? Bedtime 2am.

Week #2: I hope this call is an EASY call! I THINK this is the right catalog! What was the second step of processing orders? Bedtime 1am.

Week #3: I'm getting better at MOST calls coming in! Its between these two catalogs. What are the shipping options on this order? Bedtime 12am.

Week #4: Bring it on!! Bedtime still midnight.

We would love to hear from YOU: How ARE we doing?

Price Reductions!

We have not one, but TWO price reductions this week!

#1: Nova 3-in-1 Commode was $156.14, NOW $138.00

#2: 1/4" Latex tubing, was $.85/ft., NOW $.79/ft.

Take advantage of these savings HERE
and HERE

Dropping Medicare & Medicaid - One Year Later

September 30th marks the one year anniversary of our official exit from the Medicare / Medicaid provider system. It was an incredibly hard decision to make, not to mention the stress of wondering “did we make the right decision?”

Well, the answer is yes. While our revenue went down by the percentage of customers we could no longer service, our overall profit margin (and health of our company) increased. Don’t get us wrong. By no means are we rolling in the dough! We have always kept our margins much lower than other providers in our area, and of course we pass that savings on to our customers.

In the spring of this year, another opportunity presented itself, and had we still been Medicare / Medicaid providers, we may not have been able to take advantage. We were able to expand our business by purchasing Laurel Uniforms & Apparel. This opportunity allowed us to diversify and expand our product offering. It also added a convenience to our customers who purchase both medical supplies AND medical scrubs. We are a one stop shop!

While the face of our customer demographic may be changing, we still hold true to our company principals. Offer the best products at the lowest possible prices with outstanding customer service.

We still get phone calls from customers needing Medicare / Medicaid covered products, and we happily refer them to other companies in the area. And once in a while, a customer still stops in to say hello, even though they can no longer get their products from us.

In this economy we consider ourselves one of the lucky few that can actually say that we are growing. We are very proud of this, especially since we took a huge leap of faith.

We would like to thank all of our customers for sticking with us through our transitions during the past year. Like any rollercoaster ride, now that its over we can say “wow, what a ride”!

HUGE Thank you!

Our Grand Re-Opening last week was a success, in most part our suppliers who gave us, ahem, supplies to give away to our customers visiting our store!

Thank you KOI for the wonderful scrubs!



Thank you ADC for the wonderful stethoscopes and manometer!



Thank you Landau, Barco and Cherokee for the generous "goodies" you provided us - our customers all loved them!

Grand Re-Opening Day 5 - The Final Day!

Peeps this is your LAST chance to come get some goodies!!

Our goodies bags have gotten progressively heavier through the week. Meaning, they have MORE loot in them! So get off your duff and come on down!

Oh, and be sure to Enter-To-Win! You could be a winner like these fine people:

Denise - Winner of a Adscope 609 Professional Stethoscope!

Luisa - Winner of a Free Koi scrub top or bottom of her choice!

Saphire - Winner of a Adscope 641 Sprague Stethoscope!

Congratulations, winners!

We hope to see the rest of you soon!! TGIF!

Grand Re-Opening - Day 4

Folks, we are down to our last two days of our Grand Re-Opening! Better hurry in for the last opportunities to SAVE and be given FREE goodies!

The winners of our Wednesday Enter-To-Win are:

Amelia - Free Koi Scrub top or bottom!

Lena - Free Adscope 641 Sprague Stethoscope!

Alethea - Free Adscope 609 Professional Stethoscope!

Congratulations, you winners, you!!

Since I am running the Enter-To-Win drawing program, I get to call the winners and it is so fun! I love my job!

Come in and see us today!

Grand Re-Opening - Day 3

Ladies and Gents, we have three new Daily Enter-To-Win Winners!

Peggy won a ADC Aneroid Sphygmomanometer!

Justine won a Free Koi Scrub item!

Melissa won a Adscope 609 Professional Stethoscope!

Our free goodie bags are going like hotcakes and customers are enjoying discounts on stethoschopes and scrubs.

They are also enjoying free samples of Sween Cream 24 and Atrac-Tain - two of the BEST lotions/creams on the market today for rough, dry and cracked skin!

Come on down! We would love to see YOU!

Grand Re-Opening - Day 2!

Day One of our Grand Re-Opening was FUN!

The surprised look of our customers getting FREEBIES was the icing on the cake. We had shoppers at our SALE RACK and customers taking advantage of our STETHOSCOPE SALE!

REMINDER: We have 10% off ANY stethoscope and 10-50% off select apparel!

HERE ARE OUR DAILY ENTER-TO-WIN WINNERS:
Danielle won a free KOI Scrub top or pant of her choice!

Vera won a Adscope 641 Sprague Stethoscope!

Hannah won a Adscope 602 Cardiology stethoscope!

Congratulations Ladies!

Come on down and say hello and join our festivities!

Grand Re-Opening Week - Day 1

Hello People!

Well, we kicked off our Grand Re-Opening week in style!

So far today we have given out TONS of goodie bags to every customer making a purchase, along with Random "More FUN" goodie bags to people shopping in our store. Our goodie bags include everything from fun notepads and pens to lanyards, to lotions and snazzy nail files that you can put on your keychains.

While you are here, be sure to do our Enter To Win Contest - we have drawings daily for FREE scrubs and stethoscopes!

You know you some, so come on in and see us today!

monday, Monday, MONDAY!!

Thats right, Monday!

Our GRAND RE-OPENING starts this coming MONDAY!

Boy have we been busy getting ready for YOU!

We have GOODIE BAGS coming out of our ears!



We have DAILY Enter to Win PRIZES!



We have SALE prices on scrubs and stethoscopes!



We hope to see you! Our Grand Re-Opening is celebrated next week, September 20-25th, 2010! Come see us for the good stuff!

Are You Ready for Some .....Uniforms?!

Professional Football kicked off this week. I'm sure you can sense my excitement.

I AM excited, however, that our GRAND RE-OPENING of Mountain View Medical Supply and Laurel Unforms & Apparel is only FIVE days away!!! WootWoot! *insert fist pump*



We have GREAT prizes to give away, thanks to Koi



and American Diagnostics Corporation



We have TEN stethoscopes/aneroid sphygmomanometer's to give away plus FIVE Medical Scrub items to give away! Thank you Koi and ADC!!

We also have TONS of goodie bags when you make a purchase in our store!

PLUS! We have 10% off ANY stethoscope and 10-50% off Select Apparel!

You wont want to miss this great event, so be sure to stop by next week!

And Go Broncos! ;-)

Remembering 9-11

Tomorrow is September 11th. Do you remember where you were when you first heard about the events occuring during 9-11-01?



Because I am on Mountain Time, I heard the news on the radio about half way into work. At that point they thought it was an accident. And then the second plane hit the second tower. It so happened that my work had CNN on several TV's in what we called a Network Operations Center (NOC) and one wall of the NOC was nothing but glass. I gathered with about 12 other co-workers at that glass watching the events unfold, all of us in horror. Well, except one person who was asking if they could get a server overnighted to a customer. The magnitude of the events were not registering, even after we told them that ALL flights in the ENTIRE US were grounded. And then another coworker mentioned under her breath (oh, all of those people...). That was when the first tower collapsed.

None of the people on the hijacked airplanes survived. The total death toll of the attacks was 2,996 including the 19 hijackers. People from over 70 countries were killed and overwhelmingly were civilians.

I went home early, gathered my children and spent the rest of the day with my family watching the news, thanking heaven that my family was safe. After tucking the kids in, I sat on the back patio. I will never forget the silence and the lack of airplanes in the sky. It was so powerful to only see our military flying in a grid patrolling our airspace, keeping us safe.

So tomorrow, give pause to remember those who needlessly died in the name of hatred, and their families who suffered and had to find the strength to somehow move on.

Peace.

Laurel Uniforms & Apparel is Officially HERE!

HI All!

We are so very pleased to announce that Laurel Uniforms & Apparel is now officially part of our operating business!

Lots of sweat (some blood) and a few tears and tantrums and the store looks great and the customers are comin' in!

Check us out!



And here is our embroidery machine, affectionately named "Bertha" because she was very heavy and difficult to move (required a crane!):



Please help us to celebrate our Grand Re-Opening the week of September 20-25, 2010! We will have 10% OFF any stethoscope and 10-50% OFF of select Apparel! PLUS Free goodie bags and prizes!

Hope to see you here!

FUNNY Back to School Quotes

“But there are advantages to being elected President. The day after I was elected, I had my high school grades classified Top Secret.” - Ronald Reagan

Smartness runs in my family. When I went to school I was so smart my teacher was in my class for five years.” - Gracie Allen

“We all learn by experience but some of us have to go to summer school.” - Peter De Vries

“What’s another word for thesaurus?” - Steven Wright

“Schoolteachers are not fully appreciated by parents until it rains all day Saturday.” - E.C. McKenzie

High School: The mouse race to prepare you for the
rat race.

“I have never let my schooling interfere with my
education.” - Mark Twain

“True Terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country.”
- Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

“My education was dismal. I went to a series of schools for mentally disturbed teachers.” - Woody Allen

“In youth we learn; in age we understand.”
- Von Ebner-Eschenbach

“ I touch the future. I teach.” - Christa McAuliffe

“I’m not going to buy my kids an encyclopedia. Let them walk to school like I did.” - Yogi Berra

“In elementary school, in case of fire you have to line up quietly in a single file line from the smallest to the tallest. What is the logic? Do tall people burn slower?”
- Warren Hutcherson

Retirement Living, Assisted Living & Nursing Homes

There are many options for senior living, and it can be confusing to know which choice is best for you or a loved one.

It used to be that senior family members either had family come to their home to care for them, they went to live with a child in their home, or they went to a nursing home. Nursing homes still carry somewhat of a stigma, although they have come a long way and no longer warrant that negative connotation.

Retirement Living or Independent Living communities can be single homes in a subdivision or apartment complexes. They are for people who can live without help, but no longer want the burden of home maintenance. They offer a setting for people of the same age and same interests to live in the same community. They often offer social activities, day trips, cooked meals, house cleaning and shuttle services. The also tend to offer other services at a reduced rate to the group such as a community handyman, detailed house cleaning, beauty salon, healthcare or homecare services. They simply cater to the needs and desires of people who are retired.

Assisted Living communities vary greatly by definition. A lot of them are now called “progressive” living, creating a “campus” where seniors can move into Independent Living, and as their needs change, they can move within the building to receive more advanced care and help. These living arrangements allow the senior to live in the same location without having to ever move their home more than a wing away. Some facilities even offer hospice. Although this can be difficult for some seniors to accept, it makes caring for the senior easier since the medical team on the campus is congruent. Some Assisted Living locations only care for seniors to a certain level of care and if skilled nurses or hospice are needed, the senior would have to move.

Nursing Homes are for those requiring skilled nursing - basically doctors or nurses provide services on a daily basis. The emphasis on care is medical care. Seniors can also stay short-term while going through rehabilitation, and then move back to their previous location.

While the decision to move may be difficult, benefits of community senior living are great. Social interaction can decrease social isolation and possibly improve health. Having balanced, prepared meals ensure continued health. And most importantly, senior focused healthcare is at your fingertips.

Source: www.rui.net/retirement living

Attention Nurses: 6 Ways to Ask for a Vacation

Nurses are notoriously overworked. Scrubs Magazine will help you get around an overbearing manager, angry coworkers, and problematic patients so you can get the rest and relaxation you deserve. If you follow these practical dos and don’ts, you’ll find yourself out the door before you know it!

1. Do Ask in Advance
The fastest way to get shot down when asking for time off is asking at the last minute. Your boss is a busy person, with a lot on her plate. Why not make her job easier, (and show how considerate and responsible you are) by asking weeks — or months — in advance? Not only are you doing yourself a favor, but your manager will appreciate the heads up and can plan the shift schedule accordingly. She’ll have the time to consider the request fairly … and you’ll have the added bonus of having plenty of time to try again if you’re denied.

2. Dont Mention the Fun Factor
Just because you’re planning a vacation doesn’t mean you have to advertise it. Making a big deal of your upcoming trip might not just distract you from doing your work — it might even irritate other nurses as well. Don’t act like you’ve started your vacation early! Nobody wants to hear you go on and on about your impending trip to the Bahamas when they’re going to be stuck with the late shift.

3. Do Emphasize How Much You Deserve this Break
Vacations are statistically proven to boost productivity. For once, the math is on your side! When asking your manager for time off, point out how hard you’ve worked this year and be prepared to talk in detail about particular cases you’ve handled, if necessary. If this is the first major vacation you’ve taken in a long time, don’t hesitate to mention it. By emphasizing your hard work thus far, your boss will realize the benefit of having you come back refreshed and recharged to be an even better nurse!

4. Dont Leave Loose Ends
Got someone to cover your daily tasks? Updated fellow nurses on the details of your patients’ cases? Leaving work left undone and coworkers hanging is a big mistake — one that will annoy fellow nurses and make your manager think twice the next time someone wants to go on vacation. Manage your responsibilities yourself and make sure you’re covered. There’s nothing more inconsiderate than a someone who leaves work for colleagues to finish.

5. Do Get it in Writing
You politely asked your manager two months ago if you can take a vacation. You did everything right and got approval to go. But now your trip is a week away and your boss has no recollection of the conversation. Should’ve gotten it in writing! When you go in to ask for time off for a few months down the road, get your boss to put it in writing — either on paper or in an email. That way if they back out at the last minute — or simply forget the conversation — you have tangible proof that you weren’t making it up!

6. Don't Feel Guilty
It’s easy to feel like you’re being a lazy nurse if you want to skip town for some fun. But you shouldn’t. Don’t feel bad for taking time off! After all, your vacation days are yours to do with as you please, and what’s the point in wasting them by feeling bad about it? Instead, channel the focus you have at the hospital into having some serious fun! Work hard, play hard.

For more life-saving information for nurses, visit www.scrubsmag.com.

Friday Fun Facts!

Did you know...
We received our very FIRST SHIPMENT of Koi* scrubs today! And on Monday we will be doing a "soft opening" of Laurel Uniform & Apparel! We are SO darned excited!!
*For those of you new to scrubs, Koi is the fashion trendsetter for scrub wearers - they have very fun and cute scrubs. visit www.koihappiness.com

Did you know...
There are coffee flavored PEZ?

Did you know...
Intelligent people have more zinc and copper in their hair.

Did you know...
More than 50% of the people in the world have never made or received a telephone call.

Did you know...
A fly sees 200 images per second. A TV shows 24 pictures per second. If a fly watched TV it would see a TV as still pictures with darkness in between.

Did you know...
Engineers at NASA claim to have made the loudest noise ever: of 210 decibels. This is so loud that it can make holes in solid material.

Did you know...
President Clinton only sent two emails during his presidency. One was to see if he was capable of pushing the "send" button. (I like to think that was good practice for other, more important "buttons" that he may have had to push). The other email was to John Glenn when he returned to space after 36 years.

Did you know...
Middle school and high school students who participate in instrumental music score significantly higher on standardized tests. At a 66% admission rate, they are the highest percentage of any group accepted to medical schools.

Did you know...
Nevada law requires Las Vegas taxicabs to have air conditioning. And heat.

Did you know...
All city, county, state or public district employees in California must take an oath to be a disaster service worker.

Did you know...
Usually, in the Northern Hemisphere, tornadoes turn counter clockwise. In the Southern Hemisphere, they turn clockwise.

Have a wonderful weekend, ya'll!

Keep Your Butt in the Car! And Other Tobacco Stories...

Everyone has the right to a habit. Good, bad, silly or debilitating, we all have habits. One of my pet peeves is smokers who toss their butts out the window of their car.

I cannot think of another habit that trashes our earth more than smoking. It pollutes the air, dirties our roadways, causes unnecessary fires and gives smokers one of the most deadly forms of cancer. Oh, and lets not forget about emphysema - that lovely disease that literally takes your breath away - and not in a good way.



I have worked with several tobacco chewers over the years and have had several experiences that still make my skin crawl. One co-worker always had a "pinch between his cheek and gum", and his breath was just overwhelmingly vile. I literally did not ask him for anything unless I absolutely had to. And then I always tried to make sure a desk or something was between us to get the most possible air dilution. Another time I had a co-worker who had a "spit cup" spill in a meeting. Another co-worker didnt recognize the slower, oozing of the liquid and started to help clean up. Once they realized it was someone else's spit they were handling, they promptly exited the meeting. Im pretty sure I saw a green hue on their face as they left.




I know my impulsive hair twirling is not the most professional thing to do at work, but Im pretty sure no harm is done to myself or otherwise.

Laurel's is Coming! Laurels is Coming!

As previously announced, we are expanding our business to include Laurels Uniform & Apparel.

This has added several fun things to my job, including this signage:



Because of our expansion, the bank account is on limited funds for advertising and other fun stuff. I literally created this wall signage for under $15!

Here is how:
Purchased Wausau Astrobrights Print and Stick Adhesive Backed Heavy Duty Paper.
Created lettering and designs in MS Publisher Program.
Printed out lettering.
Cut out lettering. (plus a cut on my finger, or two...its been a long time since kindergarten!)
Apply to Wall.

Supplies needed to apply: Pencil (with non-marking eraser) to mark the spots, ruler to get correct spacing, leveler to make sure all letters are straight. Oh, and a ladder if you are applying up high.

I love my job!

Oh - Our Grand Re-Opening is September 20-25th! Be sure to join us for great sale prices on apparel and stethoscopes, along with goodie bags and prizes!

How to Use a 4-Wheeled Walker

Virginia brought her mother, Ida, into our store recently to find a new walker that would "fit" better. As it turns out, Ida had the correct size walker, but she was not using it correctly. Our staff gave her instructions, had her practice the instructions, and sent her happily on her way.

Here is how to use a 4-Wheeled Walker:

1) Make sure the handlebar height is at the crease of your wrist when your arms are relaxed at your sides while standing straight upwards.
2) Lean on the walker while standing mostly upright, allowing it to roll forward with control as you step forward. You should not be hunched over and your walker should not be too far in front of you. Basically, you should be walking IN the space of the walker, not behind it.
3) To slow the walker down, squeeze or pull up on the handbrake.
4) Activate the handbrake by pushing down on the handbrake. To release the brake, carefully squeeze the brake handles again, being careful not to pinch fingers.
5) Always lock the brakes prior to sitting on the walker.
6) To sit on the walker, turn around and back up until you feel the seat touch the back of your legs. Get a firm grip on the handlebars and lower yourself down to the seated position on the seat.
7) To stand up from the seat of the walker, make sure the brakes are still on and position your feet firmly and directly under the knees, about shoulder width apart. Get a firm grip on the handlebars and stand up using leg and arm strength if possible.

Folding Walking Canes

Our folding walking canes are on special this month!

These lightweight adjustable canes have ergonomic plastic handles and fold easily for travel or storage.
Adjustable height of 33" - 37", 3/4" diameter and weighs just 1 pound.
Weight capacity is 300 lbs.

Select Color:
NO3035 - Red Bliss
NO3037 - Purple Bliss
NO3023 - Blue Rain
NO3026 - Camouflage

All of this mobility bliss can be yours for only $21.05!

Buy them at our Website today!

Post Election

Our primaries have come and gone and I have a mixed bag of feelings about the results. In Colorado we have chosen several politicians with relatively little political experience. That is a sign, I believe, that the "natives are restless".

I, like many Americans these days, am not thrilled with the direction our country is going.

But I have to ask the question: Do we care more about politics as we get older?

I would love to hear thoughs and perspectives!

HUGE Announcement!

We are very pleased to announce we will now be offering Medical Scrubs, uniforms, custom embroidery and MORE!

Mountain View Medical Supply has purchased Laurel Uniform & Apparel!

We invite everyone to our Grand Re-Opening September 20th - 25th!

SAVE: 10% on Any Stethoscope!
SAVE: 10-50% on Select Apparel!
PLUS! Free Goodie Bags & Prizes

We have easy One Stop Shopping for:
Custom Embroidery
Full Line of Diagnostic Equipment
Medical Scrubs
Ambulatory Aids
Physician Apparel
Ostomy Supplies
Medical Supplies
Chef/Waitstaff Apparel
Wound Care Supplies
Daily Living Aids
Safety Equipment
And Much, MUCH MORE!

Come celebrate at 5370 N. Sheridan Blvd., Arvada, CO 80002, Monday - Friday 8am-6pm and Saturday 9am - 1pm.

Discounts and Goodie Bags while supplies last. One discount per customer account. Cannot be combined with any other offer and applies to showroom purchases only. Discounts valid September 20-25, 2010 only.

The Eyes Have It

I have worn glasses since I was about 9 years old. Well, let me clarify. I have HAD glasses since the age of 9, but I didnt really wear them. The only time I wore glasses was when I sat down in the chair to get my school picture taken. Then, I would take them off until next year. This way, my parents thought I did, in fact wear my glasses at school - it was worth the occassional comment from a classmate saying "I didnt know you wore glasses". When I was about 14 years old I was told I could get contacts. FINALLY! But then the doctor nixed that. I cried and cried all the way home because he didnt think I was "mature enough". Whatever. The following year, I went to the eye doctor prepared for ANY rebuttle - and I got my contacts!

Can I just say, had my parents known how little I could see, they would have been astounded. The day I got contacts, I literally sat looking out the window for hours marveling at how clear everything was.

I am blind as a bat at the age of 40. But I have BOTH contacts and glasses - the glasses are only so I can give my eyes a break on occassional Sunday's and for reading while in bed at night.

Appreciate your sight, my friends!

Fun with Medicare.gov

I was recently asked “what does the new health bill mean for me as a Medicare participant?”

Anyone who deals with Medicare knows that is a loaded question!

So, I set out to better inform myself. On the Medicare.gov website I found a message from Kathleen Sebelius who is the Secretary of Health & Human Services, the group that oversees Medicare.

What I repeatedly found was the following statement: “Your guaranteed Medicare benefits wont change - whether you get them through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan”.

My question is: What are “guaranteed Medicare benefits”?
I did a search of the term on the Medicare.gov site and was referred to several publications that used the term, but that did not define exactly what they were. I did a general search with my internet browser - surely these guaranteed benefits are outlined and published somewhere. I was again referred to the publications that used the term, but did not define them.

Back to the drawing board. I did a search for “Original Medicare” since that plan has “guaranteed Medicare benefits”. I was given a “Your Medicare Coverage” page and discovered Original Medicare is sometimes referred to as “fee-for-service”. I also discovered this statement: “It is important for you to understand that Medicare does not cover everything, and it does not pay the total cost for most services or supplies that are covered”.

But wait! There was a “Note”: If you belong to a Medicare Advantage plan….you may have extra benefits, like coverage for prescription drugs or extra days in the hospital.”

So then I referred back to Kathleen’s message and what she said about Improvements to Medicare Advantage. “Today, Medicare pays Medicare Advantage insurance companies over $1,000 more per person ….than Original Medicare” and then the mystery statement again: “...you will still receive guaranteed Medicare benefits”.

Confused? Me too. What I do know is that Medicare Part A helps cover hospital/skilled nursing expenses. Medicare Part B helps cover doctor, outpatient and some preventative services. Medicare Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs.

As a former Medicare provider, we know that Medicare can be fickle when issuing payment for certain items listed as covered under A, B or D. There is no guarantee they will cover anything.

I think we will all have to wait and see what this new bill means for Medicare participants.

Radio Commentary

I was listening to the radio on the way into work this morning, my usual station which offers classic rock and a morning crew of two DJ's and their cohorts.

They had a couple of tickets to see Rush (classic rock band) so they decided to play a game called "Mothers Underwear". People can call in and guess the type of underwear they think their mothers are wearing. The DJ's then call the mother and if the caller is correct, they win the tickets. Yes, a little erie, but I decided to go with it and remind myself this was supposed to be funny.

This guy calls in and offers up his best guess on what his mother was wearing. He said "briefs, probably blue". His mother was 84 years old and lived on the west coast. It was around 6am her time. Nevertheless, they called the mother up and a sweet sounding lady answered the phone. Boy was she game! Once she figured out what they were doing, they were shying away from HER!

Come to find out, Mother was wearing only her nightgown! You go Mom!!

They ended up giving the caller tickets regardless.

Live life to the fullest and enjoy your weekend!

Blood Pressure Monitors Explained

Have you ever come across those blood pressure monitors in the store and had your arm squeezed for free? Some people need to take their blood pressure on a regular basis and need a home unit. There are many types of blood pressure monitors, so here is a guide to help you decide which one is best for you:

* Wrist Monitor - Worn on the wrist and automatically inflates, providing readings on the LED display. The size makes it great for travel.
* Manual Inflation Home Monitor - Also known as semi-automatic, these monitors require self pumping of the bulb and provide readings on an LED display. Economical and efficient.
* Automatic Inflation Home Monitor - These monitors inflate with the touch of a button and provide readings on an LED display. Available in basic models to advanced, depending on how many readings you need to take and record, along with other information such as heart rate.
* Physician Grade Manual Monitor - Inflation requires pumping of the bulb and readings are shown on a manometer. Available in basic and in a kit with a stethoscope to read heart rates.

All monitors should include an arm cuff. Larger cuffs are available for purchase seperately. Each type of monitor is available with different options.

Now that you have your readings, what do they mean? According to the Mayo Clinic, here is a general guideline. Of course always consult your doctor for accurate result interpretation and consultation.

Top Number - Bottom Number - Category
Below 120 - Below 80 - Normal Blood Pressure
120-139 - 80-89 - Prehypertension
140-159 - 90-99 - Stage 1 Hypertension
160 or more - 100 or more - Stage 2 Hypertension

To get an accurate reading, you should take your blood pressure twice while sitting down.

For more details and to shop for blood pressure monitors click here

Bathing Supplies

Clean bodies, clean hair and clean mouths can all be had with our bath products!

Whether you are going camping or are helping a loved one bathe, try our rinse free bathing cloths and rinse free shampoo caps.

For bathers with limited movement, try an
extended reach sponge or soap scrubber and a hand held shower head that allows you to move the shower around your body instead of your body around the shower.




















We also have bath mats and safety treads for slip prevention.



Last but not least, dont forget your mouth! Oral swabs clean teeth, mouth and gums.


There is nothing like the feeling of being clean and refreshed!

Finding it Hard to Get Comfortable?

Finding it hard to sit, stand or lay down comfortably?

We have a wide variety of pressure relief products! From easing cronic pain, to easing discomfort from long periods of sitting or laying, and event post pregnancy recovery.

Check out our Pillows & Wedges to help you find a more comfortable position while sitting or lying down. Of course we have the standard "donut" pillow, but you might find the coccyx cushion is a better fit for comfort.

OR

















The Knee Ease pillow and the Face Down Pillow both provide non-traditional pillow support and can help ease hip and spine discomfort.














Check out our entire line of Pressure Relief Products and get comfy TODAY!

Are you Hot?

I am hearing through the news and also from friends disbursed throughout the country that a very hot, sticky and miserable heatwave is gripping most of the US.

Funny thing is, I have actually been CHILLY the past couple of days here in Colorado. This is why I love this state! Every season we get a nice repreve from the typical seasonal weather. It was literally in the 60's this week! Our trip to the mountains over the fourth of July weekend netted us a few mornings of 30 degree weather - I could see my breath!

Every winter, we can pretty much count on a few days of 50-60 degree weather right smack in the middle of January or February. Its as if the carefree, be-who-I-want-to-be attitude in Boulder has rubbed off on Mother Nature. (For those of you unfamiliar with Boulder, CO, it is the granola eating, Subaru driving, recycling, organic, hemp and hippie capital of our nation - there is always something that makes you cock your head to the side and go "huh")

Stethoscopes - Hear the Scoop

John is a nursing student and came to Mountain View Medical Supply needing a new stethoscope. Since this was his first purchase, he had a lot of questions!

Most stethoscopes are binaural, which means it is designed to work in both ears.
The chestpiece is typically dual headed - the diaphram captures sounds from the body and the bellshape captures lower frequency sounds. Chestpieces come in many shapes, and types to fit different needs, from cardiology to pediatrics, to basic monitoring.
Most stethoscopes now have self sealing ear tips to ensure background noise is eliminated.
The length of the tubing can vary - giving added distance from the patient, but it can also interfere with sound quality.

To chose the right stethoscope for you, determine your needs and preferences and set a reasonable budget. Different manufacturer's offer comparible products at very different price levels. Do some consumer review research to ensure you get your money's worth!

See a wide variety of stethoscopes on our WEBSITE today!

Freedom, the 4th of July and America

I am an American. I was born and raised in the great state of Colorado and I love my freedom! I love that every American citizen can vote and I love that the American Dream is mine for the taking!

If you havent seen the movie Primary Colors, starring John Travolta, you should rent it this weekend. The movie is based on an explosive book written anonymously, supposidly about Bill Clinton and his presidential campaign. Love him or hate him, you walk away knowing that deep in his heart, he has a true love for America and the American people.

Other countries call American's arrogant. I think that is a true statement. Personally, I dont think there is a better country than America, and I do feel kind of sorry for anyone that does not live here.

I have a (possibly unhealthy) fascination with King Henry VIII and that whole era. He led a little too much with his heart which created quite a mess between "church and state". He alone seemed to enjoy freedom while his people suffered at the hand of his romantic whims and somewhat undecided religious views. I can only imagine how that scenario would play out in modern America!

I also have a (possibly unhealthy) fascination with Elvis. He served in the military, enjoyed great success in the career he dreamed about having, had a mama who cooked wonderful American meals, and got married and divorced. You dont get more American than that, folks.

Enjoy your holiday weekend, spend time with those you care about and eat good food!

Happy 4th of July, everyone!

Doctor's, Nurse's & Healthcare Reform

The goal of our new health care bill is to expand coverage to more people, reduce costs and improve quality of care.

Those are goals that most everyone agrees upon. Of course how we go about achieving those goals has created some rather heated arguments.

Even if we can find a way to cover most Americans for less cost and with higher quality, I have to ask: Who is going to provide our healthcare under the new reform bill?

It is well known that Baby Boomers are now retiring by the millions. Nearly 40% of doctors are 55 or older and they are potentially part of that retirement boom.

About one third of the nursing workforce is 50 years or older, and 55% of those nurses expressed an interest in retiring in the next 10 years.

The number of medical doctors and nurses coming out of school are not enough to replace the number leaving the profession.
There are incentives in the healthcare reform for newly graduated doctors, however there aren't enough residency positions to train and replace the doctors leaving the workforce.

Couple the medical professional shortage with lower reimbursement rates for care, and you have even more doctors walking away from their practices because they can no longer afford to run their businesses. Sometimes we forget that doctors are also business men and women.

Docs4PatientCare, an organization of concerned physicians, claim that what they charge and what they actually get paid are two very different amounts. Reimbursements are based on Medicare, and providers lose money on Medicaid and Medicare in many cases. Basically, reimbursements have been decreasing and patient volumes are increasing, which means more work for less money each year.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 75% of nurses said they think the shortage “presents a major problem for the quality of their work life, the quality of patient care, and the amount of time that nurses can spend with patients.”

Would you work harder in a less desirable environment for less money? Again, I ask: Who is going to provide our healthcare?

Sources: www.docs4patientcare.org;
www.money.cnn.com/2010/06/15/news/economy/massachusetts_helathcare_reform.fortune; www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/13/AR2010061304096.html

Wheelchairs - The Short & Sweet

June, a simply wonderful woman, came into our store looking for a new wheelchair. It was her first purchase, and her first experience with wheelchairs and she needed the "low-down" on what was available.

So, we decided to share this wisdom with everyone else!

There are basically three kinds of wheelchairs:

Power Wheelchairs - A wheelchair with a motor so the user can navigate on their own without being pushed by a caregiver.

Dual Axel Wheelchairs - A wheelchair with a large back wheel that has an attached handrim so the user can propel themselves.

Transport Wheelchairs - A wheelchair with 4 smaller wheels, that is designed to only be pushed by a caregiver.

Wheelchairs are typically referred to as 18", 19", 20" or 22". This is a reference to the seat width.
You will also want to consider the type of arms you need. Desk arms are shorter in length and sometimes fold up and out of the way, making it easier to sit at a desk or table.
Weight capacity, foldability, weight of the wheelchair itself and footrest options should all be taken into consideration.

Of course we offer a wide variety of the above mentioned wheelchairs, so take a peek HERE

5 Steps to Sorting Through an Estate

I was out of the office all of last week because the time had finally come to sort through my beloved mother-in-law's estate. Our goal was to sort, pack and empty out the house she had lived in for over 40 years.

All I can say is WOW, there was a lot of stuff, and quite frankly, we didnt not get it done in the 4+ days, and we worked very HARD.

To help others, here are 5 Steps to Sorting Through an Estate:

1) Get LOTS of packing supplies. Boxes of various shapes and sizes - Big enough for artwork, small enough for that cherished nativity set. Get packing paper to wrap delicates and even a roll of bubble wrap. Also, save those towels or linens that you thought about selling or donating, and wrap valuables in them.

2) Get a roll-off dumpster. You can usually get them for a few days or up to a week and they come pick them up when full. Price these out because they vary greatly from company to company. This helps because you can take out trash items as you go along, keeping your space from getting too cluttered - and believe me, it will look like a tornado hit as you go along!

3) Decide whether you want to have an estate sale or donate your items to charity. The estate sale will net you cash, donating will give you a tax deduction. Weigh your estimated net proceeds. Some people find estate sales emotionally difficult because something that is priceless to you, may only go for a couple of dollars. Donating to a good cause can leave you feeling good because you are helping others in need. We called up the Hospice company we used and they will actually come into the house and take out the items we are donating (most wont come into the house, so call around). This is especially helpful for large items such as bedroom furniture. NOTE: Most places will no longer accept mattresses, but we asked around and were glad to find friends that needed a set (they came and picked them up).

4) Clear a room and create designated "drop areas" for items. For instance, if there are two families that will be keeping items, designate an area for each family and as you go through items, simply place "keep items" in that designated place. Designate a place for artwork, a place for glass items, a place for linens, a place for electronics, etc.

5) Tag all large items throughout the house with post-it type notes. Label them "donate", "storage", "trash" or "Sister Sue's - storage". When an entire room has been gone through and cleaned out as much as possible, put a note on the door that the room is "DONE!".

Lastly, be sure to focus on the important stuff. Dont fret over finding a home for every single thing in the house. Make a box of laundry supplies and give that to a neighbor. Make a box of garage items and save it for your son for when he has his first house.

There are ten grandchildren in our family, and my mother-in-law loved Christmas, so we made ten "starter" boxes of Christmas items for each grandchild. When they have a home of their own, they will have a piece of their "Granny" to help celebrate!

Misconceptions About Nurses

I truly admire nurses. I mean, of all professions, I have a healthy respect for them, even more so than doctors. I get that doctors put in a ton more time at school, but you dont see nurses going around correcting people with "It's Nurse Smith, NOT Ms. Smith".

If you have ever been in the hospital, you know that they sometimes become an extended part of your family, even if just for a short period of time. After the slightly difficult birth of my first daughter, I couldnt wait to go show my labor nurse our bundle of joy. She left with a shift change about an hour before the birth, so I wanted her to see the fruit of HER labor!

One of the common misconceptions about nurses is that if they dont work in a hospital, they have "left" the profession of nursing. Only real nurses work in hospitals. I'm here to tell you that nurses show up in the most surprising places! Last year I spent a good part of 6 weeks at a cancer center with a family member receiving chemotherapy. I assumed the people helping us would be technicians. They turned out to be real live oncology nurses! These nurses made a difficult time in our lives relatively bearable. One of the ladies was a traveling nurse who followed her husband around the country with his job. Another nurse was putting his oldest son through college and then he was about ready to retire. And the one nurse who always waited for us to come in so she could grab our chart and be the one to help us for the day, was a single mom raising a son. I have no idea how many children my doctor has, or what he plans to do when he retires.

Another misconception is that one of a nurse's main job responsibilities is to help doctors do their jobs better. The fact of the matter is that nurses are highly educated and make critical decisions in the care of their patient's every day. In fact there is a strong movement in America towards practicing nurses to help fill the gap of shortage with doctors. I am happy to see a practicing nurse when my children are ill or have a rash, or have some mystery pain in their abdomen.

As a patient, a sense of empathy and compassion is as important as the quality of care. A nursing instructor once explained to new grads, "Patients dont care how much you know until they know how much you care."

Its the Motherload!

Seriously, besides WalMart, how many times do you see price reductions without some sort of gimmic attached to them? (Like, here is a cheap price if you finance the item for two years, and oh, by the way, interest on financing will only be 23%)

Guess what? We have a whole list of Nova items with REDUCED prices!! Save money and live better with these:

Extra Tall Offset Walking Cane #NO1090SI
Was $24.36, NOW $23.61

Folding Walking Cane with Seat #NO3091
Was $39.77, NOW $34.88

Ultra Lightweight Transport Chair (348B) #NO348P
Was $215.09, NOW $196.23

Walker Wheel and Glide Cap Set #NO410SI
Was $21.25, NOW $20.56

Walker Tray #NO436T
Was $27.59, NOW $26.79

18in 5000 Series Dual Axle Wheelchair #NO5080S
Was $238.46, NOW $228.85

Crutch Bag #NO70XX
Was $21.59, NOW $20.00

18in Lightweight Wheelchair with Desk Arms #NO7180L
Was $326.67, NOW $322.73

Adult Extra Tall Crutches #NO7201
Was $30.00, NOW $26.25

Toilet Frame Commode #NO8700
Was $77.14, NOW $74.19

Round Shower Chair without Back #NO9005
Was $35.00, NOW $31.00

Adjustable Height Shower Chair without Back #NO9010
Was $30.36, NOW $29.81

Adjustable Height Shower Chair with Back #NO9020
Was $41.07, NOW $40.38

Pedlar Exerciser #NOO6002
Was $49.07, NOW $47.87

Bi-Level Tub Grab Bar #NOO8220
Was $38.18, NOW $34.55

Bath Mat #NOO9350
Was $12.00, NOW $9.78

Knee Cruiser Rolleraid #NOTKC-8
Was $416.67, NOW $375.00

The Motherload is calling you....Happy Shopping!

Summer Reads

I like to read and wish that I had more time for this favorite past time. In fact, I have a "to read" pile of books that is currently three-high.

So for those of you who would like to add to your pile, or are out of books to read, here is a short list of highly acclaimed Summer Reads:

LET THE GREAT WORLD SPIN, by Colum McCann
This novel, with its web of disparate but connected characters, is an act of bravado, dizzying proof that to keep your balance you need to know how to fall.

THE HELP, by Kathryn Stockett
Three ordinary women are about to take extraordinary steps in 1962 Mississippi. With pitch-perfect voices, you are transported back in time where a movement by these women changes their town forever.

YES, MY DARLING DAUGHTER, by Margaret LeRoy
Four year old Sylvie longs to return to a house she has never seen and a family she cannot have known.

COLUMBINE, by Dave Cullen
A Gripping account of the Colorado school shooting, this chilling narrative is too vital to miss, as are his myth-busting revelations.

THE FOOD OF A YOUNGER LAND, by Mark Kurlansky
Stories and recipes collected in the 1930's of what and how American's ate. Indiana Persimmon Pudding, Depression Cake. Savory concoctions for a hungry time.

Happy reading!