So long "underweight", hello "normal" ... I'm up 3 pounds! I have to throw in here a question, why do total strangers (however well-meaning) feel compelled to comment on the weight of thin people? Jealousy is not a good excuse.

I brought up the various side-effects I've experienced: last week's nausea, metallic taste, acne (UGH). My options for nausea are a) wait & see if it goes away with continued use (doc has her bets on this one), b) reduced dose (doc doesn't want to do because of the severity of my disease), and c) self-shots instead of pills (EWW). The metallic taste wasn't really acknowledged, just that it goes with the nausea. Doc blames the steroid (from the infusions) for the acne. I don't buy that, I think it's the MTX, however, it has prompted me to change up my face-washing regimen and research some anti-wrinkle moisturizer (that stuff isn't cheap, but I feel the need to at least save my face since my joints are a lost cause). So, we wait it out.

I was also given an as-needed Rx for Tylenol #3 (which will have to be strictly safeguarded here at home since at least one of my kids has a known allergy to codeine like their Dad). If I don't find my missing right wrist brace soon, I fear that I will end up needing to take this. I don't like taking any more medication than I have to, so I need to find that brace!!

We discussed the deforming of my left hand quite a bit. I can be fitted by a physical therapist for finger/hand splints which won't be cheap and won't allow much use of my hands during wear. It won't "correct" the problem but may prevent further deformity. I'm going to think on that one a bit. I was urged to pay more attention to how my hands are used and to not do anything more than necessary with them. THAT'S practical advice for a busy mom of 3! I already conciously straighten my fingers and hands when "at rest" and I also take every opportunity when cleaning my hands to stretch the fingers under the warm water.

My labs were all good, so I have that to be grateful for.

I did have to sign an updated consent for the study. They added more specific information regarding infection risk. What choice did I really have? None, really. I signed it. If I could cross my fingers against infection, I would. Since I can't, I just have to keep avoiding illness.