Read any message board and someone always chimes in with “I don’t fly – it’s better just to drive everywhere.” I surmise these people have unlimited free time, don’t live out west where cities are 600 miles apart, have no interest in foreign travel, and have no worries about falling asleep midpoint into their 16 hour drive and smashing themselves into a bridge abutment.

I love a good road trip. But I also enjoy hanging out at airports, especially my home in Denver, a well designed facility where open space abound, power outlets and internet are free and and easy to find. With technology today I can accomplish the same tasks as I’d be doing at home. I can VNC into work, edit my photos, read, watch a movie, post inane updates on Facebook – all while sitting at the airport. It’s the same thing I’d do Saturday morning at a coffee shop – while watching jumbo jets rumble around the ramps.

And I get to fly. On almost every flight there’s a least one moment where I’ve been thrilled and amazed at the view, at the fact I’m floating through the air, and at the technology that makes it all happen. I can still recall a flight in the late 90s on a Northwest DC-10 into LAX doing some holding patterns through the most incredible cloud canyons I’ve ever seen. It was like an Imax movie. Or recently witnessing an amazing left seat view of the New York City skyline during a nighttime glide into LaGuardia.

This recent flight wasn’t a special flight to somewhere exotic, rather just another Southern California weekend I’ve made dozens of times to see friends and family. In addition to finally making an upgrade (thanks due to my 2010 mileage total) this was an exceptionally beautiful trip. Certain westbound departures out of Denver climb straight up along I-70 over the Rockies, and the morning flights are spectacular. In 25 minutes you go from the eastern plains, over the downtown skyline on the left, then see the rolling foothills morph in the an endless sea of jagged snow covered peaks. For an infrequent flyer out west it’s an amazing sight. For myself who calls Colorado home it’s simply neat to spot regular landmarks like I-70, the switchbacks of US-40 to Winter Park, a completely out of place casino highrise in a canyon that looks like a train set model, and the ski resorts of Copper Mountain and Vail. Someone watching me peer out the window and taking pictures might have thought it was my first time in an airplane.

I wonder why it’s lost on so many people how amazing it is one can wake up in in the Rockies and be laying on the beach by noon, taking in the Pacific ocean. Or cross an ocean in one night. I suppose I’m easy to impress. Or equally I’m appreciate of the marvel of mankind that makes it happen – even while crammed in coach.

If you set out expecting a negative experience, you’ll more than likely find one. But if take a moment to actually breath in what you’re doing and you might find yourself feeling like you did the first time you flew.

If the below photos don’t make you want to pick a window seat on your next trip then take a read from Captain Dave’s blog - who puts the beauty of air travel into eloquent words. It’s a favorite of mine..

I was certain it used to be noon, and thought at rate they’ll soon be open from 3- 3:15pm. At least they are no longer closed on Wednesdays.

I planned to amble around downtown and grab a coffee, but I saw a crowd across the street at the State Capitol building so I figured I see who was protesting what today. When I saw the all the bikes and dogs I had a hunch it wasn’t anything too right wing extreme, and I was right – it was actually a pro-labor pro-rally in support of the Wisconsin demonstrations.

I did see about six tea party folks, dressed up in the colonial garb and waving a big 13 star flag, but didn’t see any heated arguments as described in this article.

After watching the speeches wrap up a couple friends spotted me and came up to chat. I knew them well enough to sheepishly admist I was just waiting for the library to open but by all means still supported the cause. Or at least can’t fathom how anyone can support pay cuts for teachers.

I was happy to join in this time and thankful for the invite. My bargin hunting Mom found some deals on rooms at tidy and modern Holiday Inn downtown, and I arrived late Wednesday night from Denver, (having spent just three days there for work following my Spain trip.) My cousin picked me up and took me a bar by Wayne State University – we caught up and chatted about Detroit, how the media highlights “decay porn” (like my photo below) and the excellent Johnny Knoxville web series Detroit Lives, which I’ve seen in full and recommended to him. After we put a few down I snuck into the room and fell soundly asleep. I awoke refreshed to meet up Mom, uncle and all four cousins at for breakfast at the hotel, along with a crowd of other nice Michigan folks doing the same thing as us.

Speaking of Michigan and sports, I should note my cousin Paul has a very well written Michigan spots blog called the The Big Mitt. If you’re into sports you should check it out. He puts a lot more detail into it than I do my site and has some excellent analysis and regular twitter updates too.

My oldest cousin took his eight year old son around the corner to watch the parade while I caught up with my Mom and uncle, telling them about my trip to Spain and Morocco and also questioning them on how I can start attending classes in Denver again while not sacrificing all my free time and travel schedule. Turns out it’s somewhat difficult.

After the parade finished up we drove over to Ford Field, and while not as large as Mile HighStadium is quite an impressive and modern structure. I didn’t even realize it was indoors, having texted my Mom a week before asking he to bring an extra cap and gloves. (“What for? The walk from the parking lot?” she wrote back.) Sadly my knowledge of Detroit sports consists of road trips to the Tiger games when I was a kid, and seats behind the support posts in the old stadium because the tickets were dirt cheap. If the game ran long we’d have to scoot pronto because my parents didn’t care to walk through the neighborhood to the car after dark.

After some hunting we found a lot a spot in front of this house just awaiting your gentrication. We spend the five block walk to the arena trying to figure out if the lady we just payed $20 for parked worked for some sort of parking service or was just passing by.

Well all the money saved from past years netted us a row of prime Lions seats about 20 rows up, and we even splurged on some $8 beers. The game was pretty intense for the first three quarters. My coworkers who openly mocked me for seeing a Lions game were being proven wrong – they were ahead in the first three quarters, making a jubliant afternoon for all except the Patriots fans who made their presence well well known. There was a fancy halftime show by Kid Rock, but my cousins and I all agreed that we liked his music better when it was rock instead of country or whatever genre he belts out now.

Things turned sour by the by the end of the third quarter the Patriots caught up and were tied with the Lions at 24. One of the Patriots fan, a few rows down donning a Tom Brady jersey, became giddy and was spinning around dancing giving us Lions fans the business. The guy a few seats over next to us put him in his place by screaming “Sit the F–k down F—t!!” It wasn’t the first time I’ve heard that; I’ve heard the same thing said at my friends’ gay rugby games, only with an entirely different playful intonation. As mentioned my beer cost $8 so I didn’t want to “accidentally” spill it on him, so in a more mature manner I planned to take him aside privately and have a courteous discussion on awareness and diversity, but the opportunity was lost as he, along with the rest of the stadium left en masse at the point when the Lions were truly defeated.

The car was still in the lot, so we drove back across the state, my cousin doing his best to dodge the potholes along the road leading out of town. I couldn’t help cracking up when my uncle forlornly asked aloud, “Why should I have to get an alignment just because I want to see a Lions game?” (To my foreign readers- Michigan is a little tight on cash right now so we don’t have much left over at the end of the month for fancy things like basic infrastructure.)

Late evening we arrived at a family member’s farm near Lansing, ending our day with a buffet of turkey, masked potatos, salads and pie, amid more family and friends.

Despite the loss and overzealous fans, I couldn’t ask for a better Thanksgiving Day with my family. And Kid Rock! See you there next year.

That’s not to say you can’t find locally grown fruits and veggies in the U.S., or that the similar big box processes aren’t found in a Mexican Super Walmart or Gigante, but coming from a local market where eggs are so fresh they don’t need to be refrigerated, it’s a change. If I’m staying somewhere for more than a couple nights I always prefer to rent an apartment or hostel with a kitchen – and make my first stop is to a local market. It’s cost effective, fun and doesn’t force you to eat every meal at a restaurant.

At local markets you notice the differences. Last fall in Argentina I saw box delivery truck with a fully stripped cow hanging by its legs in the back, stopped in front of a restaurant early morning. While it was surprising to see I realized and appreciated this meat was probably on a farm just days ago, and after being processed was now being delivered to butchers and restaurants, rather than being stripped down in a factory and hauled across the country on a refrigerated semi truck.

Meanwhile back in the states we have seven step placards on how to wash our hands.

In April I had just spent a week in and around Puerto Vallarta. (I somehow wound up going here three times in 11 months with different people.) I tip well and am not a high maintenance diner, but I do have one habit in restaurants: I like to pick where I sit. I certainly won’t hog a huge table for two people, but if I spot a quiet table back in the corner versus being seated in the center or middle of traffic flow I don’t hesitate to ask to me moved. Friends with server experience have told me this is annoying since they attempt to evenly spread patrons to each person’s section. That’s completely understandable, but if I’m spending my hard earned money on a nice dinner I want the best possible experience.

In Mexico, or in any local restaurant who’s appreciative of your business, should you say “That table looks perfect,” the host will usher you over, pull out your chair and say “Enjoy your meal.” A meal is an event, and it’s understood that the ambiance is part of that meal. That’s exactly what happens every time at the Espresso Ristorante, a favorite Italian place pictured above in Vallarta.

Jump back to my last return to the U.S., when in less than 20 minutes after clearing customs I was reminded of the glaring corporate lifestyle. We had a few hours to kill in Phoenix before my Mom, Caleb and I connected to our respective cities, and I walked us down to the Chili’s (US Airways terminal) to relax and have a beer.

My Mom wanted to sit on the faux “patio,” or the quiet area looking into the mall like terminal. I told the host we were going to grab the small table and an extra chair. “No No,” he said. “The two seat tables must remain only two so servers and patrons can pass through.” Understanding that, I told him the table was at the end of the aisle and there were no other customers in that area. He gave us a pained look, so not wanting to be “that guy” I acquiesced and followed him to a booth in the noisy interior, where I learned the names of toy dinosaurs from a rambunctious five year old on the other side of the half wall.

It certainly didn’t ruin my evening, or make me hate Chili’s, but abruptly transitioning from a relaxed less rigid atmosphere to an establishment governed by well meaning rules is a stark and noticeable contrast. While a schematic of rules and operational methods benefit the greater good of corporate continuity it often creates obstacles to simple enjoyment when applied in a non-logical manner…

I believe a good response to customer service is “If that makes you happy, doesn’t bother anyone else, we’ll be happy to oblige!” More companies should make their their mantra.

Every Sunday in Buenos Aires you can visit “Paseo de Recoleta,” at the large park near the Recoleta Cemetary and Señora del Pilar Church.

My travel mate Lou and I were wandering around here on a sunny October Sunday, taking in the live music in between perusing belts, jackets and other leather goods, while appreciating the relaxed atmosphere. Everyone was having a great time strolling the booths or picnicking on the green listening to live music.    These were exactly the type of crafts and souvenirs my friend wanted to find. He reminded me this again, the first time a week earlier when chiding me for purchasing an “Evita” coffee mug at a Florida Street crap shack.

I bought a few shirts for my niece Lili, a belt, and when I saw a stylish single fold leather wallet I immediately knew it was a perfect replacement for my current wallet of 10 years.  It was soft suede leather with a sharp emblem on the side.  The gentlemen selling them made them all, and I knew it would be an excellent personal investment.  More so than an Evita coffee mug.

Back home I transferred over my contents and showed off the craftsmanship to friends and coworkers.  The weeks after my return were busy training and getting to know C.J., a three year old special needs rescue chihuahua that had mysteriously found his way to our door from the Adams County animal shelter.

A month later I found my wallet on the floor next to a chair I never sit in. “Strange,” I thought. I assumed that it had fallen from my messenger bag. I don’t lose things, and that should have been a red flag that something was up.  A few days later I came downstairs to find C.J. entertaining himself on the couch by holding my wallet down while picking and tearing at the seams. He had stuck his little snout into my messenger bag, grabbed my treasured wallet, and entertained himself all Friday evening gnawing it apart.

My heart sank. I was furious that a special momento and something I valued was now a soggy chew toy. Why couldn’t he had found the stone I had heisted from Calle Laprida?

I reprimanded him in the best manner I was able and gave him a long time out while drying the wallet and the two slobber soaked 20 dollar bills.  The wallet was torn and ruined.   I’m not a professional dog trainer, but I know the window of discipline for dogs is short.  I went to bed without speaking to C.J., but we made up the next day and I could tell by his bulging brown eyes he knew he had done wrong.  Or maybe he just wanted to go for a walk in the park.

That weekend I looked through my little pile of stuff still in my travel bag. I save things like city guides, club flyers and art programs.  I had a small paper bag with the name and insignia of Luis Tinti – the gentleman who handcrafted his leather goods and ran his booth.  Even better, his email was clearly marked on the bag.

I snapped a few photos of the destroyed wallet, and sent him an email in Spanish explaining what had happened, and how much I appreciated the wallet. I asked him if he had an identical one he could mail, and sent him the locations of a Fed-Ex. He wrote back, very appreciate of my note and commiserated C.J.’s behavior. He said he was in the process of producing more with my favored design, and sending it Correo Argentino would be more economical.  I told him to take his time, and he insisted I not pay until it arrived.

A few weeks later a perfect wallet showed up.  I wired him some money (first time ever using Western Union) and send him some extra for his time and consideration.  Although I love C.J. I don’t trust yet that he won’t smell the new leather from three rooms away and do the same, so I’ve continued using the original ripped wallet while saving my new one for a special occasion – like my return to South America.

I suppose the down side to acquiring goods that have special meaning and significance, is that you can really get blue when they are lost are destroyed.  Fortunately in this case it worked out, and I thank Luis for that.   If visiting the Paseo de Recoleta I highly recommend tracking him down.   Just keep your good leather away from C.J. I also purchased a pair of leather shoes by Oggi, which I only keep at work.

I do use my cheesy “Evita” mug daily – it’s a perfect scoop size for C.J.’s dog food.

I haven’t thought of this until a few weeks ago when some Saturday errands netted me with this mess.

The most insanely long receipt was at Sears. I purchased two pair of business casual pants and wound up with this below. The strip on the far left is everything I would need on a receipt – the itemized list, total cost and method of payment.  The rest is just surveys, coupons and other crap.

This is absolutely insane, and a complete waste of paper. One COULD separate what they truly need, like I did here, and hand the useless part back to the clerk or store manager – but often their directives come from corporate, and you’d be wasting the cashier’s time unless every single person explained this.

After Sears I went to Safeway, where the promotional crap is almost the equal to the real and necessary receipt.

My King Soopers slip from yesterday prints the store address twice for some reason, and tallies up the fuel points even though this store doesn’t have a gas station.  Again the promotional, survey and contest stuff is longer than the receipt itself.  I can understand the benefit of a future coupon, but does ANYONE fill out these surveys?

That’s not my real date of birth by the way.  The checker must of thought I appeared five years older when he keyed in a random date.

Her article was along the same subject as mine from last fall – and we both agree that “Don’t volunteer unless necessary,” is the best personal policy for expediting yourself through the process most efficiently.

The TSA blog “Evolution of Security” picked up her post, and also referenced my article in this post titled “Traveling 101 for Diabetics.”

Many comments followed, including a few valid and well written questions about CGMs (constant glucose monitors) that some diabetics use in tandem with insulin pumps.

TSOs (officers) Ron and Bob also responded to some comments which I consider absurd, like “Why should a diabetic be forced to disclose their medical condition?” and incorrectly citing HIPPA.  My response was that saying “I’m a diabetic” and giving a 10 second summary of your medical device at security is not volunteering your entire medical history.  It’s logical to assume that if carrying a medical device on your person a quick “This is what this is for” isn’t too much to ask.

Its a two way street.  I’ve criticized the TSA in the past.  And the ridiculous concept of “security theater” is still well in play.  However if we demand they improve we must give them the option to do so, especially on the individual level where it matters most.  Unfortunately their past newsworthy screw ups and arcane rules on shoes and liquids still give them a bad name.

TSO Bob’s latest comment is that “This blog post will be mentioned in the nationwide briefings.”

This is great to hear, even if I as the cynic picture a lead TSO standing at a podium reading the blog post while the room full of attendees act like the cast of Reno 911.   But I’d rather assume that the TSOs will be further educated on insulin pumps, CGMs, and the monitors that diabetics use.  These ancillary and non-tethered gadgets may look like an insulin pump but are in fact constant blood glucose monitors they carry on their person.

It’s nice to know that bloggers like Sarah, myself, and others can make a direct impact and educate the security screeners.  Thanks for an interesting and educating discussion on the TSA blog, and for the TSO contributors’ comments.

Related posts:

Diabetes and the TSA
Minimed Constant Glucose Monitor
I Am Now Part Robot
A Touchy TSA Issue

p.s.  This Wilford Brimley clip is really funny.  by James Van Dellen

I was meandering around the TSA site after writing this banal post on contact lens solution. I checked out their “Diabetes” section under “Hidden Disabilities.” I had seen this page before, but noticed a few updates. The page is now more detailed, and has photos. I suspect this update may have more to do with educating TSA employees rather than diabetic travelers, but in any case its a nice update and a good resource.

I don’t consider it a disability, but I am a type 1 diabetic, which means I usually have a blood sugar meter and insulin within arms reach. A year ago I switched from taking insulin injections to using an insulin pump (the one shown above.) An insulin pump provides a constant dose of insulin over 24 hours, and allows easy and discreet manual doses during meals or as needed. This better mimics the pancreatic functions, or in the case of type 1 diabetics like myself comes one step closer to the holy grail of an “artificial pancreas.” My pump also incorporates a “constant glucose monitor,” – an incredibly cool gadget which relays my blood sugar reading to my pump screen every five minutes, without finger pricks. In the photo you can see my 7pm blood sugar of 75, and the two small ticks below the graph indicate earlier manual doses to correct those small spikes. Yeah I know its not an iPhone, but compared to 15 years ago we’ve come a long way.

Fortunately my insulin pump doesn’t look near as dorky as this one from the TSA site. My pump is much more discreet as it’s carried in my pocket or clips to the inside. But I don’t own beige pleated pants either, which apparently makes pumps look disproportionately large against them.

As for the security experience, I’ve been lucky as of late and haven’t had a bag digging in some time. On the occasions the TSA has done a search and dug up my pile of syringes and insulin they’ve always understood and haven’t make an issue of it. I do carry a folded up note from my doctor in my messenger bag. I’ve never needed it, and its going on about seven years old now. I figure it can’t hurt if I wind up at some foreign land border crossing in future years, or am passing through the metal detector at the Creation Museum where modern science and life extending medicinal gadgets might confound and perplex the employees.

When I started using my pump a year ago I feared the TSA folks would also be baffled and I’d be subject to a time consuming pat down every time. Reason is that insulin pumps are obviously worn on the body. They deliver insulin via a tiny tube which connects to a little port you change out every few days. The “infusion site” as its called looks a bit weird on the skin, but nothing is permanent and its not at all painful. The connection is easy to remove and connect, but since its under your clothing it can be a bit cumbersome and appear odd if doing so in public – akin to someone digging around inside their pants.

When I pass through the xray I usually just keep my pump in my pocket and hope they don’t see it. My success has been about fifty fifty. It doesn’t set off the alarm, and if its inside my pocket they often don’t notice. If its clipped ONTO my pocket, or should I be wearing the above beige pocketless pleated pants, they’ll then inquire, I’ll explain, and they understand. The only slowdown occurred last March in Chicago when a TSA screener spotted my pump and asked me to remove it, (which they should not do,) however another screener sauntered over and corrected her by saying it WAS to remain on. The original TSA rebutted that her grandfather took his pump off at screenings. They went back and forth before realizing I was still standing there and then waved me through, then continued discussing the agent’s grandfather.

Really though it’s not complicated to take on and off – and you have to remove it for showering, swimming, and of course “intimate” situations. But as long as the TSA thinks otherwise I’m just fine with that.

Now – for the Thanksgiving week question: Below are the other two photos from the TSA diabetes page. One shows a blood sugar testing kit with a couple vials of insulin – exactly like the kit I use. The other photo shows a TSA agent meticulously scrutinizing a vial of insulin – in a camera angle I can only assume a CSI fan came up with.

Look closely and study the two vials of insulin on the left. Now, assuming one of these vials is the same one he’s inspecting – Who can tell me what the TSA agent should NOT be doing?

Related posts:

Minimed Constant Glucose Monitor
I Am Now Part Robot
A Touchy TSA Issue

And good for the Coors Field club level mens room for providing diabetics like myself (and other drug users) a proper place to dispose of their needles!  I didn’t think that many type 1s enjoyed the Rockies.

I googled “Klussman vs Cross Country Bank” and found it was a California settlement in which some firm named Klussman sued a bank for debt collecter for excessive fees and harassment. This is odd, because in recent years I’ve never received a call from a debt collector much less been harassed by one.

Obviously I haven’t make a beeline to the bank to deposit this miniscule sum, but it got me thinking. The amount of money that’s divided up and distributed is often tiny. When a class action lawsuit is initiated, why not just have the plaintants, or group that’s represented, agree that if the settlement result is under $10 per person, then the money will go to:

1: A lottery. For example instead of a million dollars being split over 600,000 people (resulting in $1.66 per person,) why not everyone agree that 100 people win $10,000? I’d give up my paltry $1.66 for the chance that myself or someone else might win 10k. And much better odds than Powerball.

or 2: A good charity that everyone can agree on. Take the whole mess and split it between the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Certainly a reputable group could benefit from a large cash influx far more than an individual or household could benefit from $2.73. And you can write off your donation.

Agree? I’m on board.

If you’re completely bored by this and follow my articles of travel, restaurants, clubs, and Denver life – you should skip this and read my story on American Airlines flight 1469. However as insurance starts to cover this equipment more type 1 diabetics will be utilizing this and similar monitors – so hopefully this will help those new to this.

In brief: Pager size insulin pumps are used by type 1 diabetics in lieu of injections. Pumps better mimic the pancreas by giving a constant dose of insulin with manual doses at meals or as needed. An ancillary gadget called a “constant glucose sensor” sends your current blood sugar reading to your pump, providing you with a constant stream of blood sugar numbers and direction of blood sugar level – rather than the lone number obtained from a finger prick.

Overall it’s an incredible life changing tool for a type 1 diabetic. Knowing the TREND of your glucose is something that was only in the realm of imagination for years. Now, to be aware and know your blood sugar minute by minute, WITHOUT the need for (as many) messy finger pricks is an enormous step forward. And to have to blood glucose number sent directly to a small screen is a wonder of med-techy synergy.

Here are the drawbacks. Well not exactly drawbacks, but things to be aware of in order to develop your own workarounds and methods to match your daily life.

Appearance: The sensor and transmitter piece aren’t quite as sexy looking as the photos. It’s necessary to cover them with a small dressing. No big deal – the starter kit includes transparent adhesives. Medtronic sells a pack of 100 at the astronomical price of $62, but you can find similar at Walgreens for under $5.
New Sensor Obligation: When starting a new sensor you need to allot yourself a seven hour block of “awareness time.” Better said: keep your meter handy.

After starting a new sensor you’re required to enter your first BG in two hours, then another in five hours. It’s not practical to start a new sensor late in the evening, as you’ll be alerted to enter a BG in the middle of the night. After the two and five hour BG calibrations you’ll be prompted for one BG entry (calibration) every 12 hours. This is pretty easy, and I’m getting used to “thinking 12 hours ahead.” For example if I do a calibration at 2pm, I have to remember to do one around 10pm or before bed so my pump doesn’t wake me up at 2AM requesting a calibration. Typically morning and early evening is best, (before meals,) as your BG needs to be relatively stable for the best calibrations. You can set your calibration reminders up to four hours before a necessary BG entry. But again think 12 hours ahead. If you’re planning to sleep in Saturday morning you don’t want your last Friday entry to be 6pm, or you’ll be harassed by your pump at 6am. This hasn’t been an issue so far as I’ve actually been taking MORE manual readings to test the accuracy.

Accuracy and Rapid Changes: During periods of rapid change the CGM definitely lags. If my BG is 200 and I lower it down to 100, my spot checks show it will be a bit slower to reach 100. BUT, I do show during normal periods of minor fluctuation it’s very accurate. Its stable periods (non-rapid change) it’s been leveling out matching my finger sticks within 20 points.

However I am bit disappointed in how it matches blood sugars that are rapidly rising. And I’ve found when my level is LOW and bring it up, the readings bottom out and take quite a while to reach up to where it should be. These “flat periods” and annoyances are similar to blogger Jay’s experience in this recent post. I see way too many of these stagnant periods when I KNOW my levels are changing, but the results are slow to follow and stagnate within 10 points.

Attempting to remedy this I’m experimenting with new sensor sites. I realized my last sensor was on a site where I’ve given myself many shots over the years. I’m on day two of a new sensor, placed on my upper leg, and am watching the results closely. Pasta dinner at Maggiano’s last night DID prove more accurate, although my manual checks showed little fluctuation anyway.

Sensor Life: When you start a new sensor the pump allows a three day use, and when expired instructs you to change sensors. Like infusion sites most users extend their sensor life to reach six to nine days. The “three day use” is only the number documented by clinical testing and approved by the FDA. There’s nothing unhealthy about using a site longer provided your body, (and awareness of accuracy,) are comfortable with it.

The pump sends you a “sensor end” message after three days. It’s easy to tell the pump you’ve “replaced” the sensor by selecting “Start new sensor.” Your pump will prompt you for a BG shortly, (usually 15 minutes, and not two hours from a newly inserted one.) And remember since the pump thinks you’re on a “new” sensor you’ll be prompted for the initial five hour check. Obviously there are accuracy concerns with using a sensor repeatedly, but as you learn how your body operates with the sensor you can make adjustments for that.

The sensor doesn’t like being soaked in hot water. Showers are fine, but hot tubs and baths reduce the life of the sensor. Thus if you’re removing a sensor Friday and planning on some hot tub soaking Saturday night, best to just start a new sensor Sunday as not to waste a sensor for just one or two day’s use.

Other Sensor Messages and Other Stuff

When flying you’re supposed to remove your transmitter from the sensor, and use the “Reconnect Old Sensor” feature after landing. (Or anytime after disconnecting the sensor from the transmitter.) Yeah right. I have no plans to do this. Flying is when I WANT my CG numbers as during travel my blood sugar fluctuates more due to eating crappy (or no) food. The range is less than 10 feet and not a threat to airplane safety. Minimed only tells you to do this because they have to. On a related note I took two flights over the past week and my pump and sensor did NOT set off security.

Lost Sensor: If your pump is out of range from the sensor for more than 40 minutes you’ll get a “Lost Sensor” message. Just hit “Find Lost Sensor” and you should get readings again within 15 minutes.

Cost: Unless you can stack your closet with an unlimited supply of sensors I recommend keeping your sensor life in mind when planning certain activities. As mentioned hot tubs, jello wrestling, or other activities in which you want to be “untethered from the sensor” require some planning ahead in changing of sensors. Unlike the pump you can do without the sensor and it’s readings for as long as you need to – it’s just normal life before the CGM.

Without insurance sensors are $350 for a box of 10. That’s $35 per sensor. A “wimpy” injection of your sensor can be a $35 mistake. And time consuming as well since you’ll be annoyed by “calibration errors” until you just replace it. If your insurance covers sensors with a nominal co-pay then of course you can be more liberal in use. However remember inserting a “new” sensor still requires the two hour window to start, then your five hour calibration. So even if I could afford a new sensor every three days I’d still use them longer to avoid the the calibration requirements.

Overall – grade B Balancing my expectations with my month of experience I’d give the Guardian a B, wavering between a B+ and a C+.  Each person needs to tailor their use and data according to their needs. Hopefully my experimentation with different sites will remedy my issues of “flat periods.” But keeping that in mind I still love using it. The technology WILL improve and get better, and realizing the potential it will be available to more and more people. I’ve found it addicting having the numbers at my side no matter what my activity.

If anyone is also using this or new I’d love to read your reviews. I find these almost as interesting and exciting as “How Air Traffic Control Works!” Take care and have a killer 2008!
James Van Dellen

I rarely mention this in my blog because it’s been a part of my life for so long I don’t even consider it noteworthy. Unlike an ambulatory or noticeable handicap I don’t consider type 1 diabetes to be that life altering. With proper care and planning type 1 diabetes is easily manageable, so long as you are disciplined about the food you consume and daily exercise. From traveling to scuba diving to hiking, camping, and skiing – diabetes has never prevented me from doing anything I’ve wanted in life. Oh wait – I suppose it did prevent me from becoming a professional airline pilot, but in retrospect that’s probably a good thing because my alternate life might find me unemployed living out of an efficiency apartment in suburbia. And eating nothing but fast food – thus developing type 2 diabetes.

As benign as it outwardly appears diabetes does constantly factor into your daily life. The most annoying part of type 1 diabetes is the need to constantly test your blood sugar, and also experiencing blood sugar swings. During a normal day, i.e. sitting at the office or puttering around the house it’s rarely an issue: I prick my finger and sample a drop of blood with a meter. Based on the result I take a shot if it’s too high, eat some food if it’s too low, or simply remain aware of my blood sugar level for future activities that day.

However there are times when it’s a pain in the ass to check your blood sugar. When out at a restaurant or bar with friends. Or when doing my favorite “INGS” like flying, hiking, skiing, biking – it requires me to stop what I’m doing and reference my small meter. Granted glucose meters now take less than 20 seconds to process, but it’s still something that requires an interruption. And of course those are the times you NEED to check your blood sugar more often.

For years type 1 diabetics have tested their blood and injected themselves throughout the day this way. However for the past few years many have been using a newer and more effective method of control: The Insulin Pump. Insulin pumps regulate the delivery of insulin more effectively by mimicking the pancreas: they administer a small and constant dosage throughout the day and night. This is far more controlled than ONE daily injection of a “24 hour” insulin, plus additional shots with meals. People who have given up multiple shots for the insulin pump have stabilized their blood sugars and have seen amazing improvements. And with constant delivery the pump is excellent at “holding” your blood sugar levels within a tighter range.

Yet I was never that keen on wearing a pump because I really don’t mind giving myself shots. It’s easy and I’m used to it. That and the co-pay for an insulin pump is north of $1,200. BUT – the advent of the constant glucose meter is something that I find absolutely incredible. When I learned that my insurance would now cover the insulin pump AND the constant glucose monitor I decided it was time to upgrade my gear. For the past month I have been equipped with the Minimed Paradigm insulin pump which operates in tandem with the “Guardian Real Time constant glucose monitoring system.”

The benefit of a constant glucose monitor is to reduce or eliminate major blood sugar swings. Even diabetics who exercise tight control are still subject to blood sugar ups and downs. If you eat without giving yourself sufficient insulin your blood sugar is high. If you’re exerting energy during activity and don’t eat enough food you’re subject to low blood sugar. As mentioned you track these by checking blood sugar, but again when these “finger pricks,” are needed it’s often at the most inopportune moments.

Also correcting high and low blood sugars often result in a “superball” or “pendulum” effect. If your blood sugar is 220, and you correct with a bit too much insulin you risk plummeting to levels too low. Then eating food bounces it back up. Once your blood sugar is “bouncing” it’s often difficult to stabilize it back to a normal range and stop the pendulum effect.

But the constant glucose monitor provides a constant update of what your blood sugar is, and WHERE it’s going. The knowledge of the TREND allows you to take action BEFORE your blood sugars reach high or low levels.

The constant glucose sensor/transmitter attaches to your body and looks like a small seashell. It transmits a signal to your insulin pump every five minutes relaying your blood sugar and rate of change. This rate of change, or “trend” is very beneficial. For example if your blood sugar is 150 and climbing you can correct with a small dose via your insulin pump, rather than a large and potential overcorrection. You are in a sense operating an “external artificial pancreas.” This isn’t automatic though. It still requires you to be aware, alert, and make decisions regarding your food and activity hour by hour. However the resource of this small device as a guide and tool is a significant change in the life of a type 1 diabetic.

Contrary to some beliefs this system doesn’t eliminate blood sugar checks. Since the little “seashell” glucose sensor draws from your interstitial fluid just below your skin while a finger prick checks actual blood (which is more accurate,) you still need to compare and calibrate at least twice daily.

In some ways this system is far more discreet than the routines of my previous 12 years. I’ve never felt embarrassed about giving myself a quick shot. But if I’m on a plane, in a movie, at a concert, in a meeting, or similar environment it’s often inconvenient to squeeze out a drop of blood onto my machine. Now I simply look at my small pager size device for information.

But in some ways it’s NOT so discreet. Although only a small device clipped inside your pocket, you do have a tiny tube connected to a your “infusion” site, which you change every few days. As cool as this gear is, you are constantly tethered to it, and even though the pump and tube can disconnect for showering, swimming, hot tubbing, high action volleyball games, and sex – you still have your small “infusion site” patch on you. Should you find yourself at a nude beach or similar situation where you don’t care to explain a cyborg-like port on your upper buttocks, thigh or abdomen, you can easily remove the infusion patch and transmitter. But the costs of these proprietary pieces means most folks leave them attached for as long as possible. After I adjusted to the fact that this little guy is going to be at my side for a long, long time I realized that everyone, (including me,) has cell phones, iPods, and other miscellaneous toys that already reside on their being all day long. Another gadget in today’s world really isn’t that odd. The only difference between carrying this and another gadget is the small tube.

After reading this a non-diabetic is probably thinking “Holy crap I’m glad I don’t have to deal with such a nightmare.” And I’d probably think the same. But to me this is absolutely the coolest piece of gadgetry I’ve ever owned. I admire the development and technology in the medical field, and I feel very fortunate that I have the resources to obtain this.

The answer to the most FAQ’d? No, it’s not painful. The required two cannulas that sit inside of you are made of extremely tiny flexible plastic. Inserting them is no different than a shot, and once they’re under your skin you don’t even feel them. Good times.

Since my blog is more than sufficiently fragmented between travel, food, Denver, and random musings I probably won’t post further on life with diabetes – but if my regular readers are interested I would be happy to post a follow up.

If you’re curious for more I recommend visiting the blog Sixuntilme.com, written by the very attractive Kerri. Kerri’s excellent writing details life with diabetes, and she also contributes to the online site dlife.com (You guessed it – diabetes life.) Kerri’s blogroll lists a host of other bloggers devoted to the highs and lows of living with diabetes. And I’ll bet now you can guess why that last sentence was a pun.

childrenwithdiabetes.com is an excellent resource for parents, with information on insulin pumps and constant glucose meters. From a design and style standpoint Amy Tenderich of diabetesmine.com suggests we recruit Steve Job’s help in developing the next generation of insulin pumps.

And if you want an example of totally playing up your diabetes for attention watch Brett Michaels “Rock of Love” on VH1.

James Van Dellen Denver

I had no idea what to expect, other than having heard the phrase “worm farms” somewhere on TV. I pictured a small fenced in mound of compost with rotting eggshells and banana peels, similar to what I’ve seen in some backyards. (Make that non HOA controlled backyards.) However that’s not the case. Worms are clean and efficient. A modern worm farm is a three or four level stack of trays. You can create them out of large tupperware bins and partition your waste so that the worms will farm within sections, but doing this requires you to dig around the sections being farmed in order to collect the soil, thus upsetting your worms. A better worm farm contains the plates of trays. You dispose of your waste in the (covered) top tray. The worms get busy munching, and soon the bottom layers collect with waste rich dirt. You collect the dirt and use it for gardening and planting, and grow your own nutrient rich fruits and vegetables without the need for fertilizers. Also since much of the organic waste has high water content the extra runoff is collected into a small can or jar. This is known as “worm tea” and can be used to water your plants with the same nutrients and minerals available in the dirt.

Because this “mini ecosystem” is constantly active there is no smell. And the part most impressive? Household items that you would normally waste: apple cores, coffee grounds, banana peels, green peppers, newspapers, paper towel rolls, and even egg cartons go straight into the worm farm, and eventually are processed into dirt. How cool is that?

Our friends keep their worm farm in the basement with a work light above it. Worms shy away from bright light but a red gel will keep them active as you watch. Or setup a webcam and create time lapse videos as our friends plans to do. You can purchase worms online or at a gardening store, and no need to worry about worms overwhelming your farm since their space will regulate their reproduction.

This is seriously the most impressive organic or green household activity I’ve seen. It’s easy, simple, and interesting. The way these worms, which live in something the size of a large shop-vac, can create natural dirt is just cool. Your organic waste now serves a purpose.

Worm Farms are becoming more and more popular. This blog features a worm farm made from Rubbermaid bins. Here’s another comprehensive worm farming site.

Left photo: adding waste for the worms. Right: Done! It’s soil now.

James Van Dellen and Caleb Cross

This accumulation is only about 5-6 days worth of normal groceries, bathroom junk, and other standard sundries from various trash cans around the house. 

I make an effort to be a conscientious consumer and refrain from buying wastfully packaged products such as this Treasure Cave cheese, but man this is still a lot of trash. Hey Treasure Cave: remember when Burger King used to put the Whoppers, already wrapped, INSIDE a cardboard box, which you’d take 20 feet to your table and then throw away? Save some money and follow their lead.