Dentist
I just got back from a dentist appointment. My teeth would have slight shooting pains whenever I drink something very cold, so I thought it wouldn't hurt to go have a check up. It's fully covered by insurance anyway.
But when I got there, they were also talking about how maybe I should have a bite guard ($400), a crown ($2600), and have my wisdom teeth removed (cost unknown; another specialist). Say, is it normal for me to only have lower wisdom teeth, but not upper?
But anyways, although I didn't say anything, I'm thinking to myself what an insane amount of money they want. To tell you the truth, I don't want them to do any of that. I mean, is there anything in there that is truly necessary?
Plates
I finally checked out Walmart's Corelle plates. I saw a really nice set that is mostly white, but also had a nice, subtle leafy trim on it. Very nice, and also $30. I probably should have picked it up, but for some reason, I just couldn't pull the trigger.
I kept thinking that maybe I won't use it all that much after all. But what made me change my mind was that at least I know what's out there and where to get it. So, whenever I do change my mind again, I'll know exactly where to go to pick it up.
Comfort food
The weather has been rather dreary and, you know, it's funny how the weather can really cost you money if you're not careful. For example, because it's been cold and rainy, I've been having an overwhelming desire for warm comfort food, even when I am not hungry. And that's the problem. I would crave it when I'm not hungry. Not only is there a risk to cost, but I may also over-eat, which I don't want to do.
Besides sheer willpower, I don't know how to fight this though, and I'm open for suggestions if anyone has any.
Gas bill
Finally, I just got my gas bill, and I was very pleasantly surprised that it only costed me $18.75. Considering that the weather has cooled down, I would have expected a lot more.
For the most part though, I've been keeping my temperatures very low (when the kids are not with me). Like 55. I think that's good enough, especially when I am running my computer.
Overall though, I'm enjoying the fall, and I hope you do too.
Fall quickies
November 12th, 2009 at 04:11 pm
November 12th, 2009 at 04:20 pm 1258042815
November 12th, 2009 at 04:23 pm 1258042995
I think a LOT of my friends think I am cheap and I should have listened to these dentists. IT amazes me how gullible people are. I don't think I could have healthier teeth, so why would I trust strangers who ask for $3,000? I don't know what bothers me more - the financial fraud of it all, or to have completely unecessary work done on my mouth???
The things you mentioned aren't very "scammy," but they do sound pretty optional.
Wisdom teeth - I only have one. IT's probably normal.
November 12th, 2009 at 04:43 pm 1258044223
Yes, get a second opinion. My NC dentist told me I must have a crown -- my IL dentist says no. Apparently there is wide disagreement about what is necessary.
November 12th, 2009 at 05:09 pm 1258045772
November 12th, 2009 at 05:43 pm 1258047837
The comfort food! After reading 'Mindless Eating' recently you are soooooooooo ahead of the game recognizing the cues! So use that to your advantage, if it is the cold weather, bundle up and go do something active (walk the dog, yard work, ice skating!).
Or put in plain sight low calorie healthy takes on the comfort foods. How about some sugar free hot chocolate? Or roasted carrots w/fresh rosemary? Or poached pears? Get creative with what, if anything is in your garden. The key is to put in easy access, visible and good quantity of healthy stuff.
November 12th, 2009 at 05:45 pm 1258047923
Wisdom teeth. It is normal for people to have only a few, though I am not one of those lucky people. I've been told for years by multiple dentists that I need to have them pulled. I haven't done it yet as they aren't bothering me. The risk is that wisdom teeth often cause pockets to form in your gums which can lead to infection. They can also cause crowding of your other teeth. I am considering having mine taken out, but I won't be having it done until I good and ready or they get infected or something.
November 12th, 2009 at 06:03 pm 1258049021
I have a recipe for a multigrain porridge that's to die for; you just put a little milk, sweetener and nuts on it and a small bowl will really warm you up and stick to your ribs. High fiber awesomeness. Leftovers keep well for at least a week, so you can make a big pot of it. Let me know if you want me to post it!
November 12th, 2009 at 06:20 pm 1258050028
Haha, you must have mistakened me for someone who knows their way around the kitchen. I mean, I wish I do, and maybe some day I will.
But yeah, that's not a bad idea about having healthy foods around to fight the temptation.
In fact, I thank you all for the surprising amount of input, especially the dental stuff. Yeah, I don't think I'll be taking those anytime soon. It's a lot of money of what seems like optional stuff.
November 12th, 2009 at 06:57 pm 1258052261
November 12th, 2009 at 07:01 pm 1258052487
November 13th, 2009 at 02:28 am 1258079293
One of my favorite warm comfort foods is peanut butter toast with applesauce warmed up in the microwave or toaster oven. Mmmm mmm!
November 13th, 2009 at 02:40 am 1258080007
It is normal to have 0-4+ wisdom teeth. Any of them can be missing or not developed.
Yeah, I would definitely get a second opinion....$2600 for a crown???