to piggyback off u/zelliez - amazon sells the test strips they use in clinics for ultra cheap and in bulk. You can get them bundled with ovulation tests too, if that's something you need

Because pregnancy tests in drugstores are expensive af, I found you can get super cheap pregnancy test strips on Amazon, 50 strips for $12! I have PCOS, so I never have periods, so I just use one of those strips every few months just to make sure. So much peace of mind :)

ClinicalGuard® HCG Pregnancy Test Strips (Individually-Sealed, Pack of 50) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007VT3BUE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ekodBbRJ0BV3K

CW: Previous loss mentioned

Cycle: Trying since April 2017


Ovulation cycle day: 13


Relevant BD/BD method: Husband coins the phrase "Fuck week" method. Sex every night from CD8 to CD16.


Tracking methods and apps used:


First cycle using Ava bracelet. 🙄 I used FF for a long while but over time started to genuinely despise temping. Temp drops would send me into downward spirals in the wee hours of the morning. My husband started to resent FF. My cycles were very regular and since I knew I typically ovulated between CD 12-14 (thanks to FF), we adopted fuck week protocol and stopped with temping some months back. I would encourage anyone starting out to jump right into temping because I regret not starting sooner but would also encourage anyone to stop it if it's making you miserable.


As for the Ava, I had an abandoned HSA account from an old job with a few hundred bucks and (for whatever reason) it's too big of a pain to merge it with my current HSA so I've been running it down. Ava is kind of neat but I assure you, you do not need this thing. It's overpriced for what it does, imo.


Symptom spotting:

Nipples were mildly tingly but they were last cycle too so I didn't put much stock into it. Bloated and gassy before BFP but still did not register until after the fact.


Day of positive test(s): 14 DPO (CD 27)


I'm away on business travel this week and next. I got my BFP in a hotel bathroom alone on Wednesday morning. Thanks to the huge bathroom mirror, I got to see the big smile on my face. 😊


BFP stands for big faint positive in my case because the line was there but no where near as dark as the control. I brought a few cheapie ClinicalGuard tests from Amazon with me on this trip. I took another test CD16 (Friday) and it was still faint as the first. Que deep panic setting in. Turns out there's a number of reviews on Amazon warning not to use these for line progression purposes. I have a FRER at home I can take when I get back. Debating if I should get a Clearblue Digital while I'm down here to show hubs when he picks me up from the airport later this week. 🤔 🤷


I had a miscarriage at 6 wks this year in April and had a very faint line on a FRER at DPO 16 then. Nothing like prior miscarriage to rob the joy of a positive pregnancy test. (This is why the faint line has me so terrified.)


I did get a fucking grip after I read this article so panic averted for now. A faint positive is still a positive. The line on a home pregnancy test isn't going to tell you if you will carry to term. It's just pregnant: true/false. Embracing the "today, I am pregnant" mentality and cherishing the bloat, gas, and increasingly sore boobs.


Supplements and medications:

NatureMade Prenatal Multi+DHA

NatureMade CoQ10 100 mg

NatureMade D3 25 mcg (1000 IU)

Now Fish Oil DHA 500/EPA 250


Husband was also taking the same only swap the prenatal with a Men's One-a-Day vitamin. We've been on this regimen for a while now. Hubs also takes Adderall.


Birth control history, if relevant:


Two back to back Mirenas, last one removed April 2017. Had not had my period for many years until ttc. Forgot how much it sucked. It took about 3 months to normalize after removal.


Typical cycle length: 27 days


Health conditions/medical tests: Sedentary and stressful office job. Otherwise healthy.


Link to chart: Ava chart

I switched to "pregnancy monitoring mode" or whatever and now I can't see what the chart looked like before that. :/ It said that I ovulated on CD 13 (Sept 26). OF COURSE, the one night I forgot to wear was a fairly critical data day CD 12.

Note that the temp rise is not very clear post ovulation. (Not as clear as I was used to on FF.)


Link to lineporn: Squinty Arrow added for husband's benefit.


Other (advice, magic secrets, freaking out, miscellaneous):


I have been stressed out to the max with my job this cycle. So much for "just relax and it will happen". 😂 That being said, I have gone through a weird attitude adjustment over the past few cycles. Hard to describe. I stopped being so negative and also stopped being overly anxious about making things perfect. I drank coffee throughout this cycle and into ttw. I tried to get up from my desk and walk everyday. I didn't consider myself out immediately just because something wasn't optimal. I read somewhere on Pinterest, "You don't need perfection to get pregnant" and it really stuck with me. In the end, conception happens on the microscopic level and how you feel about it isn't going to impact much. So you might as just go with the flow. My husband helped me see this. He really helped lift me out of my funk.


I fly home on Thursday and wouldn't you know it, hubs and I have our first appt with an RE on Friday morning. (Nuts to think I made this appointment in August.) If everything stays good by Monday (Tuesday the latest), I'm going to call to cancel or reschedule a month out and see how it goes.


I would have been due in December with the baby we lost earlier this year. Hopefully I will be far enough along to make an announcement at the family Christmas party instead. 🤞


Sending my love and best wishes to everyone reading and congrats to the other BFP posters this week! There was a long time when these threads were too hard for me to read so also sending my love to those in that place too. ❤️❤️❤️

Edit: Looks like I am heading back to that place too... 😭

Last year a buddy and I took a 1300 mile trip around Colorado /r/dualsport ride on a Husqvarna 701 and a Yamaha WR250R. Here's a photo of the gear from last year.

This year we are adding one person (riding a monster, brand new, KTM 1090 Adventure R) to the crew and moving a little farther west to see some of the amazing sites in Utah. I put together a 1500 mile route, and will tack on White Rim Trail (if we can get passes) and wander around in Beef Basin for a bit.

A few of my friends have started using Polar Steps, so I've setup a trip and will try to keep it updated. I also maintain a simple website and will post photos on my flickr account.

Now, on to the fun, because sorting out gear and packing is half the fun of a /r/motocamping trip.

I'm involved in volunteer search and rescue (/r/searchandrescue) so a lot of this gear comes from my callout pack and extended incident command packs. The more experienced riders will notice that I'm lacking any tools, spares, tube slime, etc. I'm fortunate enough to be riding with 2 other riders that are packing all that jazz.

Two mottos:

1. buy once, cry once
   
2. high speed, low drag
   
   motorcycle
   
   

• Yamaha WR250R 2018
  
• Dunlop D606 tires
  
• heavy-duty tubes
  
• Tusk rack
  
• Tusk handguards
  
• Rox Speed 2" risers
  
• Seal Savers
  
• Moose Racing skid
  
• HaloCam front+rear dashcam
  
• IMS 3 gallon tank
  
• Double Take enduro mirros
  
• Edge2 fender eliminator
  
• USB charging port
  
  navigation
  
  
• Garmin 64s - Most Garmin's allow OSM maps. Free, crowd-sourced maps are a huge win in my opinion.
  
• Garmin inReach Mini - in the event I "full send"
  
• OSMAnd+ - Open Street Maps offline maps
  
• GaiaGPS - offline satellite images, private/public property maps, USFS road maps and topo maps
  
  photgraphy
  
  
• Sony a7iii
  
• Sigma 14mm f1.8
  
• F-stop Navin - mounted on my chest, holds my Sony a7iii
  
• Lowepro Toploader chest harness
  
• Lance Camera strap
  
• 3x Sony batteries
  
• Osprey ultralight dry sack 6L
  
• GoPro Hero 6 Black
  
• 6x GoPro batteries
  
• GoPro battery charger - charges 3 batteries at a time
  
• GoPro ND filters
  
• various GoPro mounts
  
  medical and hygiene
  
  
• SAM splint
  
• NAR Hyfin vent chest seal
  
• NAR rolled gauze
  
• QuikClot clotting gauze
  
• thermal blanket
  
• 3x hand warmers
  
• triangular bandage
  
• medical tape
  
• wound seal
  
• NAR tourniquet
  
• Leatherman Raptor medical shears
  
• basic meds
  
• basic bathroom supplies
  
  wearing
  
  
• Forma Adventure boots
  
• Fox v2 VLAR helmet
  
• REV'IT! Wind Jacket
  
• 100% Accuri Sand - the "sand" model helps with wind blowing on my eyes and drying contacts out
  
• grey smoke lens
  
• Mammut Neon Light 12L backpack
  
• Nonoise ear plugs - I know they are a bit pricey, but I've worn them 5 days in a row over 1500 miles and didn't even know they were there
  
• Road iD - blood type, date of birth, allergies and wife's contact info
  
• gloves
  
  sleeping
  
  
• Kammok Roo Single hammock
  
• Twisted Root Cloudburst rainfly
  
• Big Agnes Hitchens UL 20 sleeping bag - ultra-light, ultra-compact, I carry this for winter SAR activities
  
• ALPS Mountaineering compression sack - medium size, I use this in place of the Mosko Moto tail bag because it fits my sleeping bag, rainfly and hammock
  
• REI Flash sleeping pad - insulated is important
  
• Osprey ultralight dry sack 12L - used for my sleeping back, inside the ALPS compression sack, to ensure my sleeping bag stays dry
  
  inclement weather
  
  
• winter riding gloves
  
• Olympia Horizon rain pants
  
• rain jacket - cheap, no-name, fits over riding jacket
  
• face mask - ski/snowboarding style
  
• windbreaker - for over riding jacket, cheap no-name brand
  
• smart-wool base layer
  
• fleece jacket
  
  food
  
  
• 2.5L Osprey Hydraluics LT - inside the Mammut backpack
  
• GSI Pinnacle Soloist pot
  
• Light My Fire spork
  
• UST Delta Stormproof lighter - this actually failed to work on my trip last year to Colorado, but I think it was because we were at altitude
  
• [Primus Micron trail stove](primus pocket rocket) - mine is an older model
  
• Primus fuel cannister
  
• 4x backpacking dinners
  
• 4x backpacking breakfasts
  
  motorcycle
  
  
• 2x Primus 1.5L fuel bottles - unleaded fuel is important
  
• funnel
  
  clothing
  
  
• 1x riding pants
  
• 2x shirts
  
• 3x pairs of socks
  
• 3x underwear
  
  luggage
  
  
• Mosko Moto Reckless 40L saddlebags - I did 1500 miles through CO last year with these and absolutely loved them. A key feature for me is that I can snag the "sleeves" and run under a rainfly and setup my entire camp. Other brands, all your gear is in a bag, on the bike, so you have to stand next to the bike while you setup camp. Also important for when staying in hostels.
  
• Mosko Moto Pico tank bag
  
• Rok Straps
  
  misc
  
  
• Moo cards - I carry these for dropping in geocaches and sharing my photos with people I meet.
  
• Zebra H600Fc - recommended in /r/flashlight by /u/Zak
  
• 2x USB cable - multi port - these are nice and short, and can charge both micro-USB and USB-C devices at the same time
  
• Leatherman Skeletool
  
• flip flops
  
• shorts
  
• t-shirt
  
• 10x rechargable AA's

[This] (https://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-XL-550-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B0014ZQH84/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1497014749&sr=8-1&keywords=xl-550+scale) scale is what beast_underneath uses. And [this] (https://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-SCMXL700T-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B00MQ8A5UY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497014970&sr=8-1&keywords=xl+700+scale) scale is wht the_walking_joey uses. I follow both on Instagram.

Please don't be embarrassed. You should be proud. You are awesome!
*Edit to add where I got the information from.

I learned about using this stuff from a girl on my university soccer team. It doesn't move! It doesn't hurt! And it's super cute! And cheap! Obviously this link is for a bulk quantity--I just chose it to show all of the colors available (in addition to the usual black). Smaller quantities are almost certainly available at your regular local pharmacy.

ninja edit: spelling

Rehbands definitely helped with my knees.

If I squat without them, I'm in pain. If I squat with them, I feel absolutely confident in my knees. So I don't know if you have them, but it's worth a look. Also that link sells them as a single sleeve, not a pair, and you'll want to size down.

[this] (https://www.amazon.com/Reacher-Grabber-VIVE-Rotating-Extension/dp/B00O47NWE6/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_229_bs_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=SN3KXH66FV4NVMTZXP5R)





but seriously, I hope I have a passenger or avoid them.

One other thing I would suggest is to get a little peddler for under your desk, like this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002VWK09Q/ref=pd_aw_sim_sg_8?pi=SL500_SS115.

You aren't going to get a real workout, but just keeping your legs moving when you are stuck at your desk for 12 hours will help your circulation and make you feel less like a lump.

Put the ladder back up and use this: https://www.amazon.com/T-rex-Pincher-Grabber-Wild-Republic/dp/B001EAUGNQ

Or if you're old and boring, this: https://www.amazon.com/Reacher-Grabber-Vive-Rotating-Extension/dp/B00O47NWE6

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DKHTKP3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_jHdKDbN1D6GX2

You can buy pregnancy test strips on Amazon for less than a quarter apiece.

If you are really paranoid about it, just test yourself whenever you feel anxious.

I agree. Just need one of these.

I know y'all were on the edge of your seats for this information and I apologize for the delay.

BREAKING NEWS

I decided to do PPL bro splits during my cut (the other 2-3 days are MMA practice) instead of UL bro split. My work capacity is pretty low it feels like but I think it's because of my meal times.

EDIT: Also, how does this scale look

I'd also like to welcome our newest member of the 2p8 Benchpress Club: /u/stephenfish. Happy for you babe.

Hi there. I was formerly up to 470lbs with ankles bad enough to rule out most exercise. 11 months later I'm 388 and hitting the gym 5 days a week. Here's how I did it.

1. Diet: I got on keto, but a low-carbohydrate diet would work well too. Your mom needs to just restrict calories. The Mifflin-St Jeor calculation for base metabolic rate says she's burning around 2500 kcal per day if shes 5'7" or above. If she's at 500, she's burning 2900+ kcal per day. Basically, if she can restrict her diet to 2000 kcal per day, she'd lose at least 50lbs in her first year without any exercise at all.
   
   
2. Basic Exercise: I didn't immediately start heavy lifting followed by hard cardio or HIIT. When I first started losing weight, I could only do the stationary recumbent bike. Somewhat slowly. My ankles would ache just walking in the gym, and they would get swollen and I'd sprain them trying to even do the elliptical or treadmill, so I'd bike. For the public embarrassment, I highly recommend Planet Fitness. When I started working out I was super self-conscious about how I looked working out. The amount of other big people at Planet Fitness really takes the edge off. Once you've evolved to where Planet Fitness equipment doesn't suit your fitness goals, you're more confidant and other gyms don't seem so bad.
   
   
3. Positive Routine. Some things that helped were a good routine. As I said before, I started my fitness journey at Planet Fitness. I did the black card membership (only $20/month total) and every time I was done with a workout, I'd go get a hydro massage. The massage would help my back while giving me the positive reinforcement I needed to keep working out (I'm here for a massage, might as well bike for 20 minutes first). I think it goes without saying that this reward should NEVER be food. For milestones food can sometimes be a reward, but food shouldn't be a day-to-day reward.
   
   
4. Face the music: I've found that weighing in often helps me stick to my goals. I have my weight mapped out in a chart, and when I'm weighing in often, I tend to stick to my diet and workout schedules. My periods of plateaus or small gains usually have few data points in them. Get your mom a good scale that wont max out. I used one of these until I could get on a lower-max scale. Also, an app like myfitnesspal means its hard to cheat on the diet. Even on cheat days I log my food. Last weekend was the first cheat day of the year. I ate 4500 Calories. I didn't want to ignore it. I need to deal with the fact that I have more of a deficit to make up this week because of it. Self-accountability is good.
   
   
5. Get a partner: Working out and dieting with others that you have accountability to makes it easier to maintain and harder to cheat on either diet or workout. If your mom doesn't want to work out with you, she should reach out to a friend or relative. I work out with my fiancee and a friend from work, and it makes it hard to say no if one of them wants to go work out.
   
   TL;DR
   
   
6. Keep calories at 2000 or lower. Reduced sugar is best.
   
7. Find an exercise she can do. Recumbent bike worked for me while I couldn't do other exercises.
   
8. Add some positive non-food reward for staying true.
   
9. Self-accountability is required.
   
10. Accountability to friends/family is motivating.
    
    This last year I've accomplished more than I ever thought possible. It's changed who I am as a person. Last February I would have thought someone was joking if they told me I'd be 80lbs down, much stronger, and wearing much smaller clothing.
    
    Let me know if you want to talk privately. Hell, if you live near Tucson, AZ I could go do some cardio with your mom.

I have trouble standing and walking, but am fine when sitting, so most of my advice is from that viewpoint.

Swiffers for everything! Mop/sweeper, duster, dusting cloths, etc. They're really efficient and disposable so I don't have to deal with things like mop buckets, dirty mop heads, cleaning feather dusters, anything like that.

One of those extendable pincher things to help pick stuff up off the floor.

An extendable scrubber for the bathroom. The shape makes it really easy to get into corners.

A clothes folder makes it really easy to fold your clothes, and I can use this on my lap while sitting down in bed.

A walker with a seat makes it really easy to get around to do things and has a seat for when I need to sit down. The basket that most come with helps to carry supplies from one room to the next.

Stick vaccums are super lightweight and easy to maneuver even from a couch or bed.

A scrubbing attachment that goes on a power drill is so helpful when you don't have the strength or stamina to scrub by hand.

I swear by all of the Kaboom products. All of them are no-effort cleaning supplies. They have toilet cleaner, mold and mildew cleaner, and, of course, the famous shower foam.

An automatic vacuum like a roomba is great for most people, but I've never had one so I can't comment myself.

Soak your dishes. There are special products that help get dried on food off your dishes, but I've found that just soaking them in hot water for 20-30 minutes before trying to wash them gets most stuck on food off. For really tough, baked on gunk, add a dryer sheet to the water. Sounds weird, but it helps soften up the crusty blackened burnt on food and it comes off easily.

For food that's stuck on the inside of the microwave, take a cup of water, add some lemon juice, and microwave it on full power for 6 minutes. The food will wipe right off.

I might think of more things later. If I do I'll come back and edit this post.

Not that mabis but I have this:

Multi-Function Digital Basal Thermometer to Measure Basal Body Temperature (BBT) , 0.09℉ Accuracy, Blue backlight, 60 day's memory for Chart tr https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MFFBT8Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_7OpI6KVTcTxL9

Started at 380, but I think the same theories still apply.

1. I don't have a good answer for this one. I think a lot of it depends on budget and how accurate you need it to be. The My Weigh XL-550 seems to have solid (if not spectacular reviews), a low price point, and looks like a good fit. I can't really vouch for it though.
   
   
2. Good question. In my opinion, when you get to 350, 400, 450+ pounds, everything gets cut at once. I have a few reasons for this
   
   -People (like you and I) don't get to that weight due to a single bad habit. I don't think anyone can realistically eat enough cake, or drink enough soda, to account for that drastic a weight gain. Cutting out Coca Cola or Ice Cream will have good effects, but it's often either one of many problems, or the symptom of a greater, overarching problem. Don't treat the symptom, treat the cause.
   
   -I think the psychology behind it turns out poorly either way. Let's say you gave up cake for a month. If you lose 5 pounds, you may attribute it to the cake and may not want to give anything else up. If you don't lose 5 pounds, it feels like you sacrificed a food you love for nothing.
   
   -I think "cutting out" is a bad way to look at it. When I started, I did cut out everything, and then eventually re-added it at smaller, realistic portions. But ideally, you will be able to live a lifestyle where you can occasionally have the foods you really like. If you get to a point where you cut out pie, you will miss it, and you may want to return to it. Occasionally having a slice of pie isn't a death knell and may be better, once in a while, than letting the pie consume your mind.
   
   As I said, once you get above three bills, your diet should be a lifestyle change. Someone who's 5 pounds overweight can say "OK, let's cut out soda". Someone who's 100+ pounds overweight needs more drastic, core changes and adopting a new lifestyle is important to that. If you cut out soda, it's not going to change much if you get your sugar and carbs from other sources. Drastically cutting down on sugar and carbs will get you places (for instance).
   
   
3. For me, I lost my first 100-ish pounds by diet and daily walking (our campus had hills). I didn't set foot in a gym until I was 280-290, and still, most of my exercise is cardio (and honestly, it means very little unless you're eating correctly. I've lost 30 pounds in the past 3 months and worked out less in those months than in the ones where I kept my weight).

At a certain age you have to ask yourself which would be worse. Bending over to pick something up? Or crouching down to pick something up and then having to stand back up from a crouch?

Eh...it's a toss-up, and you make the same noises either way. At some point, you just give in and get one of those grabber-stick thingies.

Disclaimer: Do not attempt to lift small children or pets with the grabber stick thingie. Sit down and let them come to you!

Back in my soccer days, Pre-wrap was popular (https://www.amazon.com/Mueller-Rainbow-Sports-Pre-Wrap-colors/dp/B00CA5IA4G). You rip off a strip of it, tie the ends together to make a loop, and wear it like any other headband. Cheap, disposable, stayed in place nicely (after you do some experimenting to figure out the right length of strip for your head). Might sound a little crazy, but it really did the job.

We'd match the colors to our uniforms because we were cool like that :)

Just did a quick search and came across this one that weighs up to 550lbs for $38 with free shipping. Great reviews too. http://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-XL-550-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B0014ZQH84

They make little peddlers (like this one) that she could use while still sitting on the side of the bed.

They sell these things that r/modelmakers dread wearing because they all remember a time when they didn't need it. They are wearable magnifying lenses that free up your hands, some of them come with LED lamps.

For the knee, do you use knee sleeves or some other kind of support? That could help, I know a lot of people use them for squats and stuff.

For compression tights, I think Under Armour has some nice ones. I don't wear the long pants but I love their shorts.

A lot of people here use the MABIS thermometer and really like it. I just got a cheap one from Target and it works just fine. As far as OPKs, the Wondfo brand/other internet cheapies are really popular and super cheap compared to some of the digital ones (Clearblue, etc). It depends on your preference, though. My first time around I used the Clear Blue digital OPKs and I liked that they were cut and dry with their negative/positive response. This time I'm using Wondfos because they're much cheaper, although there is more room for interpretation with the negative/positive. You can check out /r/TFABLinePorn to see what pictures of positive/negative cheap OPKs look like. You can also get cheap HPTs bundles, too. Happy shopping!

MABIS Basal Thermometer, Digital BBT Thermometer, Basal Body Temperature Thermometer... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000O6YCZY/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_mdyrzbBGK3WVV

Wondfo Combo 50 LH Ovulation & 20 HCG Pregnancy Test Strips https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RY8UBNC/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_blyrzbS8T1B71

Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test, 20 Ovulation Tests https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AOJ5R8W/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_ZlyrzbKCE31EJ

I use a Bluetooth scale and weigh myself every morning. It synced the data into Apple health. It wasn't expensive.
1byone Digital Weight Scale

I have been tracking my weight since I got the Watch.

I started at 294 in January. Had a wake up call, and started to eat better then. When I got the Watch in February I was down to 287. I kept going with the Watch, and making sure I was active.

I added in calorie tracking with LoseIt because I wasn't happy with my rate of progress. That accelerated the weight loss.

Here is my weight tracking for this year. Starting at the highest I have been (294). I separated out just the section where I added exercise (up from none), and the section I added calorie tracking. The trend lines show the difference. It's not huge, but is distinct.

https://imgur.com/ILdJzLM

K.I.S.S. Keep It Simple, Stupid. Words to live by!

Gloves. Just your standard Nitrile gloves. I have a box in my closet with about 5 pair in my truck. Although with Texas summers here, I'd bet they've melted together by now. I should really check on that...

Safety Glasses Any brand will do. Just look for ANSI Z87.1. You'll probably never use them, or 90% of what's in your bag, but they're nice to have on hand.

Knife w/seat belt cutter & window punch. This is mine. I keep it on my trucks visor when I'm driving, and on me when I'm not. Cheap and useful. A little big though.

Simple Breathing mask. Always good to have around.

Gauze Rolls & Gauze Pads. I've used these a couple times, all on myself. I have the uncanny ability to fall when running outdoors. It's truly a gift.

Large SAM Splint. Surprisingly I've used two in only a year of building my kit. Once for myself, colles fracture from tripping, and the second time for a friend who slipped in my kitchen. We're not the most coordinated bunch.

And if you're feeling adventuress (sp?), Emergency Blanket, Cold Pack, & a Hot Pack. These aren't necessary, but nice to have if you have some extra $$$ to burn.

This is all i carry in my truck medical wise. It's also a good idea to have a flashlight on your vehicle or in the bag. Don't waste money on anything "fancy". You'll never use them and if you do you'll probably get sued.

I received a pre-stocked jump bag from a family member as a gift for getting my EMT cert. Came with OPA's, C-Collar, Adult/Pedi BVM, & a couple suture kits. These are no-no's. Good Samaritan laws won't protect you if you use these. DON'T BUY/USE THEM WHEN NOT ON A RIG! (The suture kits are another matter...just don't) I took these out of my bag completely.

TL;DR K.I.S.S. Avoid anything a non-EMS person couldn't use.

EDIT: Formatting

You need one of these grabber things to hold the toys:

https://www.amazon.com/Reacher-Grabber-Vive-Rotating-Extension/dp/B00O47NWE6/

She definitely handmade that test. But..it gets better. The test she is trying to recreate is a wondfo test strip. They make 2 kinds...ovulation, and pregnancy. You can clearly see by her fingers that it's light blue. The light blue strips are the fucking ovulation tests. The pregnancy tests are pink! This bitch falsified the wrong type of test!! Lolol

Source: am currently pregnant, and used the exact brand of test strips she's trying to copy to track ovulation and also test pregnancy.

Source 2: amazon

Vent 1: biking to/from work is 20 miles (round trip) and i've been trying to go to the gym for HIIT/lifting on top of it, but i'm so. freakin. tired. I'm alternating days right now to try and work up to just doing the damn thing, but I'm so tired whines

Vent 2: I got a new scale and got rid of my old one that was a million years old. The new one tells me i'm literally 5-7 lbs heavier than my old one and it's discouraging af.

Digital. My scale has never given me a different reading on the same weigh in, ever! Regardless of placement. This one.

Sure!

These are the calipers I bought. Overall I like them and that they come with a guide. They can just be a little difficult to use by yourself so heads up. If I bought again I’d probably get something a little easier to use.

Slim Guide Skinfold Caliper https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NN9SDO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_uLtSAbPHHH0D5


On that note, this is the website I use for my calculations. Considering that it seems to match the machines I’ve used, I trust it’s accuracy.

http://scoobysworkshop.com/body-fat-calculator/


And for what it’s worth, Scooby Werkstatt is awesome. If you feel like kicking around his website he has tons of no-nonsense fitness and dieting guides for free. He doesn’t sell anything and is all about helping people.

Pizza's idea of the Sawyer was an excellent suggestion and would be one of my top recommendations as well. To hit some other categories for ideas:

Viral/Contamination:

• ReadiMask - http://www.amazon.com/Readi-Mask-Adult-Eye-Shield/dp/B004FNM3HG/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1405587012&sr=1-1&keywords=readimask (bonus in that it protects from pepper spray as well.
  
  
• iOsat - http://www.amazon.com/iOSAT-Potassium-Iodide-Tablets-130/dp/B00006NT3A/ref=pd_sim_hpc_7?ie=UTF8&refRID=1728J79YJKNWGHDRJN05 (for those worried about radiation)
  
  Medical:
  
  
• Israeli Bandage - http://www.amazon.com/Ever-Ready-First-Aid-Compression/dp/B003DPVERM/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1405587096&sr=1-1&keywords=israeli+bandage (useful in injury situations and classified by amazon as an add-on item)
  
  
• SAM Splint - http://www.amazon.com/SAM-Splint-36-Rolled-Orange/dp/B001J5H92C/ref=pd_sim_hpc_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=18S9GSPKTSW2TE04ATJ7 (variety of uses)
  
  
• PTK - http://www.amazon.com/Patrol-Officers-Pocket-Rescue-Essentials/dp/B006X6PA4Q/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1405587210&sr=8-16&keywords=ifak (basic, compact trauma kit)
  
  
  Informational:
  
  
• SAS Survival Guide http://www.amazon.com/SAS-Survival-Handbook-Revised-Edition/dp/0061733199/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405587615&sr=8-1&keywords=sas+survival+guide (Problem with this is I wouldn't be surprised if they had one already)
  
  
  Water:
  
  
• WaterBOB - http://www.amazon.com/waterBOB-Emergency-Drinking-Storage-Gallons/dp/B001AXLUX2/ref=pd_sim_hi_14?ie=UTF8&refRID=1YX88PYX3MPY73MFFPBT (Emergency Water Storage)
  
  
• Seychelle Filter Bottle http://www.amazon.com/Seychelle-1-10303-PI-SEYCHELLE-24-Inch-Bottle-Advanced/dp/B00B48XJZK/ref=pd_sbs_sg_7?ie=UTF8&refRID=0RQPR5EQ0W6AF13TPG8F (Advantage over sawyer? Removes viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals. Disadvantage? Only good for 100 gallons; also, I've seen mixed reviews on Amazon; I always ordered mine from the company directly and never had any product issues so idk there)
  
  
• Potassium Permanganate - http://www.amazon.com/Potassium-Permanganate-Ounces-Screw-top-bottles/dp/B00FH6R5AA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405588269&sr=8-2&keywords=Potassium+permanganate (101 uses; research it out)
  
  
  Tools:
  
  
• On Duty 4 in 1 tool - http://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Earthquakes-Hurricanes-Disasters-Emergencies/dp/B000NYDEPQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405588628&sr=8-2&keywords=water+shut+off+tool
  
  
• Opinel - http://www.amazon.com/Opinel-Carbon-Folding-Beechwood-Leather/dp/B00AZ5LW4S/ref=sr_1_6?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1405588822&sr=1-6&keywords=opinel (can't go wrong with a decent knife, plus they may get some use out of it now)
  
  
• Paracord Wrapped Prybar - http://www.amazon.com/Type-III-Apocalypse-Paracord-Wrapped-Compass/dp/B008DMSPPO/ref=sr_1_14?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1405589184&sr=1-14&keywords=mini+survival
  
  
  Other:
  
  
• Israeli Gas Mask - http://www.amazon.com/Israeli-Issue-Drinking-Sealed-Filter/dp/B004RUB8VE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405588890&sr=8-2&keywords=israeli+gas+mask (I'd be dubious trusting it for anything other than tear gas, but that's me)
  
  
• Paracord Braclet - http://www.amazon.com/The-Friendly-Swede-Starter-Stainless/dp/B00EDYMWO6/ref=sr_1_25?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1405589015&sr=1-25&keywords=survival (Bit more useful than most)
  
  
• ER Bar (or other emergency ration, they all taste terrible) - http://www.amazon.com/ER-Emergency-Ration-Survival-Preparedness/dp/B008DEYC86/ref=sr_1_49?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1405589118&sr=1-49&keywords=survival
  
  
• Mini Fishing Kit - http://www.amazon.com/Best-Glide-Adventurer-Series-FG1250/dp/B004J4EXCO/ref=sr_1_55?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1405589118&sr=1-55&keywords=survival
  
  
  Anyway, just some suggestions. Hard to get too crazy on a budget. I'm sorry I missed the exchange but I signed up to give someone who gets screwed something so I'm sure I'm gonna help someone out.

If you're having pain after just walking, seeing a doctor should be your first priority. After that, a bike (stationary or "real") may be a good option for a non-impact alternative. If a bike is too spendy (check yardsales) you could try something like this.

It looks like you have a decent soldering station, that is really the main thing. You'll need a small tip, but probably not as small as you think. I like the Weller ETL, but a ~2mm screwdriver style tip works well for SMD in my experience. If you go too small it can actually cause trouble for heat transfer and thermal recovery.

If you've mostly been doing through-hole stuff, you'll want smaller solder. Having small diameter solder makes it easier to feed just the right amount. I like Kester 0.020, some people go even smaller. Of course there are lead-free versions of that, too, if you prefer.

For through-hole, the flux that is inside the solder is usually enough, but for surface mount, you'll need extra flux. You'll probably be fine with a flux pen. You'll probably want some solder wick because mistakes happen, and a solder sucker thingie doesn't work as well with surface mount.

As u/t_Lancer says, you won't need a hot air station and solder paste unless you're planning on doing leadless packages. If you decide to get a hot air station, though, they're pretty cheap. You don't even strictly need solder paste, I've been making do by tinning the pads with regular solder first with my soldering iron before hitting it with the hot air.

For vision, it depends on how your eyesight is. I'm fine eyeballing down to 0603 but I can't read the markings without help. I've started doing all of my soldering under light magnification with the Optivisor DA-3 with a LED attachment which has really helped, but it isn't strictly necessary. You can get those visors with more magnification at the cost of a shorter working distance. Good room lighting and a magnifying glass work fine, too.

And most important thing you need is practice. Watch this video and grab one or two of those SMD practice kits and you'll be knocking out surface mount stuff in no time.

I've bought a heap of pregnancy test strips (no casing, but reliable) from Amazon. It was about $15 for two years worth if I test every fortnight or so. It gives me piece of mind. :)

Edit: Look for something like these. Happy non-baby making!

For moments like these, I highly recommend getting a ton of tests for cheap from Amazon. I got 50 for like 10 bucks a while back and it's really helped me calm down.

Here's the link

A few suggestions for you:

1. Stop consuming THC
   
2. Buy a THC drug test, I got 10 of them off amazon for cheap, if in a hurry just buy it from walmart/drug store:
   
   https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Home-Marijuana-Single-Panel/dp/B00E5O5EV2/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=thc+test&qid=1565483019&s=gateway&sr=8-7
   
   

3. Make sure to consume lots of fluids, I hear exercising helps as well
   
   
4. On the day of your exam consume extra fluids to dilute your urine, you can research this point more but from what I understand you are unlikely to fail for dilute urine (unless it has very low color). Actually might want to make sure you are taking your multi vitamins to get some color in your urine
   
   
5. Be skeptical of whacky advise from people who dont know what they are talking about, be skeptical of products that say they will clean you out

Stick with your scale. You've lost 12 pounds. It doesn't matter if you went from 285 to 273 or 269 to 257. You still lose the same amount of weight.

In the meantime, you should really upgrade to a digital scale. They're relatively cheap. They last forever. And they're more accurate.

Here is one for $20:

• https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Digital-Weight-Technology-Elegant/dp/B00F3J9G1W/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1478546633&sr=8-3&keywords=digital+body+scale
  
  A lot of people swear by this one:
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Digital-Weight-Tempered-Pounds/dp/B01HI1W1V4/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1478546633&sr=8-4&keywords=digital+body+scale

My SO is into the scratching bigtime. Freaked me the fuck out for a while to see her back all red.

But you know, we like what we like, and as long as you're both being safe, sane, and consensual, you just roll with it.

I'd strongly advise adopting a safeword system like red/yellow/green, and grab a copy of SM101 as you move forward.

Also, someone who likes scratching will probably also like a Wartenburg wheel. ;)

These are the ones I use. And you can go here to see videos on how to measure. As a guy, the only one I really care about is the abdominal since I have lean limbs.

Always better to build one yourself.

Here's mine. Might give you some ideas.

6x6 Med Pouch (Modified with fingernail polish)

1. Personal prescription meds inside quart ziploc for additional water resistance.
   
2. 2x 4inch Gauze rolls
   
3. 8x 4x4 sterile gauze pads
   
4. 2x tampons 2x menstrual pads (these are meant more for backups for wife rather than wound care)
   
5. 4x pair sterile surgical gloves
   
6. 4x 4x4 tegaderm
   
7. various butterfly closures and bandaids
   
8. 1x triangle bandage
   
9. Immodium & Pepto tabs
   
10. Tylenol
    
11. [redacted because people lack reading comprehension and I'm not going to debate it.]
    
12. 2x Epi Pen (These are in case I have a run in with sunflower seeds.)
    
13. 10x Alcohol swab
    
14. Burn gel (the lidocane is good for more then just burns.) x10
    
15. Antibiotic ointment x10
    
16. Sting wipes x10
    
17. 1x tweezers
    
18. 1x tick remover
    
19. Medipore tape
    
20. Clotting Sponges
    
21. Shears
    
22. Israeli Bandage x2
    
23. Chest Vent
    
24. CAT Gen3
    
25. SAM splint
    
26. Hibiclens
    
27. Mini USB light
    
28. Bic Pen
    
    Not all of this fits inside the med pouch itself. It's meant for quick access to the critical items.

They are reusable, bendable, radiopaque splints. They are the standard for EMS and wilderness medicine. There are many tutorials on how to properly use them. Here is a good start:

https://www.youtube.com/user/MedWildVideos/search?query=SAM+splint

I'm not saying to get this one but maybe something like it:

ShowerPill Athletic Body Wipes for Cleansing and Deodorizing, 10 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0061QL8EE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ypCdAbNH6VBH4

Stuff for camping probably more cost efficient maybe. Anything that cleans and kills bacteria. I know that there's a brand gyms usually carry, maybe even just the antibacterial hand wipes or sanitizer for your hands and then a shower wipe for the rest so at least you don't touch your eyes and get sick that way, then just get clean enough so you don't stink.

There's dry shampoo too. Or wash your head in a sink and then wash your face with face wash.

This is exactly what I've always done. I like the CB for the low/high/peak distinction, but I like actually being able to see the strength of the line to determine actual positive OPK day. (...also, the Wondfos read faster than the CBs, and I'm not a patient woman.)

I really like the CBs because I don't feel like I have very readable CM most of the time. If you feel like you have a good handle on your CM, and if your CM follows a predictable pattern, you may not find them as useful -- the low/high distinction is made by detecting rising levels of estrogen in the fertile window, which is the same thing you're doing when looking at different kinds of CM.

This is the CB kit I've always ordered from Amazon. It's much cheapter to buy them from Amazon than in your local drugstore -- I think this same kit was something like $70 at my local CVS. You can re-use the reader for multiple cycles, as long as you still have sticks left.

I used these while trying to conceive:
http://www.amazon.com/Wondfo-Combo-Ovulation-Pregnancy-Strips/dp/B00RY8UBNC/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1458407868&sr=1-1&keywords=wondfo

You can get just the pregnancy ones as well:
http://www.amazon.com/Wondfo-Pregnancy-Strips-25-count-medical/dp/B0002YIQEQ

These are the exact same items that some doctors/clinics will use in their office. It's a little messier than the ones you can get over the counter because you need to pee in a cup that you can dip the strip in but that's not a big deal IMO.

Edit: side note, the ovulation predictor strips worked, I had my little bundle of poopy on 2/17. It was nice to have a bunch of pregnancy tests though so every month I could go through one or two when I got impatient.

In terms of exercises, the ones I would recommend would involve your shoulders retracting back (face pulls, pull ups).

The best method is just a mindset of keeping the shoulders back when sitting (it's hard, but it will help you over time). Also, if you have bands at the gym, use the bands to strengthen your rotator cuff muscles.

There are contraptions that help you with posture; but, I've never tried those.

I really like the iSnow. It has a backlight, has an alarm option, and can store 60 past temperatures.

I bought this scale from Amazon. I haven't had any issues with it thus far. There are a number of other scales that are cheaper, I just picked this one because it was within budget and had high reviews.

Happy shopping.

This is one the greatest things for double diapering. I use the Wartenburg Pinwheel. Basically you can poke hundreds of holes in a matter of seconds. This will help you avoid a bunch of SAP leaking from one diaper into the other and making a mess.

Seriously, if you double diaper on the regular, I highly highly recommend you pick one up!

I've tested and compared most BF measurement methods. It was kind of my obsession for a while.


What I can tell you for sure is that bioimpedance measurements (like your scale) are pretty worthless once you get leaner. They are wildly affected by fluctuations in water retention, up to a few percent of BF off from day to day in my experience.

DEXA and BodPod are expensive, and very NOT worth it because it can also fluctuate a lot depending on hydration levels, especially if you're alternating low carb/high carb while cutting/bulking.

Hydrostatic is reasonably priced ($30 for re-tests in my area), and precise. It is not affected whatsoever by your hydration level since the weight of water under water is 0. Of all the more advanced BF measurement methods, hydrostatic has the best precision and the lowest price to boot.

But my #1 recommended BF measurement method: A good pair of BF calipers and someone to help you measure. You can get a cheap pair on Amazon for $5, but I recommend these larger ones. $13 one time cost. My caliper measurements match my hydrostatic almost exactly. And when you learn how to make consistent and precise measurements with the calipers, you're set for life. You should do a multi-site measurement including the vertical abdominal fold. You can use this online calculator. I've found little difference in readings between Jackson/Pollock 3, 4, or 7 site measurement. So I just go with the 3 site measurement out of laziness.

http://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-XL-550-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B0014ZQH84/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395678724&sr=8-1&keywords=500+lbs+scale

Up to 550, prime eligible, and works well. It's the one I use.

You may want to also look into SAM splints, they’re pretty cheap and can be formed to be useful for essentially any splinting situation. I would also recommend getting triangle bandages, they could help you cut weight as they can be used for a tourniquet, a sling, makeshift traction device (for femur fractures), combined w/ SAM splint a makeshift C-Collar... the list goes on and on! I’m sure there are YouTube videos for teaching some of those skills! That being said, look into an Outdoor Emergency Care or Wilderness First Responder course if you really wanna up your game!

SAM Rolled Splint 36", Orange/Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001J5H92C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fs4tDbPSWZZTS

https://www.walmart.com/ip/FIRST-AID-ONLY-Triangular-Bandage-Muslin-Blend-4-002BG/535741946?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1122&adid=22222222228000000000&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=42423897272&wl4=pla-51320962143&wl5=9028780&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=101593696&wl11=online&wl12=535741946&veh=sem&gclid=CjwKCAjw1rnqBRAAEiwAr29II9tViQLnFdaeyJD2OoWeiQ3AH3sQHbpvn3VnVYLDq1T4HgBgo-16dBoCrZEQAvD_BwE (you can also make triangle bandages with some old cloth or something, in my experience bedsheets work best because they are a lot stronger)

If you smell, that's going to be a pretty insurmountable problem.

However, if you're just a little unkempt, that can be easily remedied.

Get a pack of Face blotting papers or just cut up a bunch of coffee filters and keep them in a ziplock bag in your school bag. Wipe your face off in the bathroom with them before you go into class. (blot off sweat first with a paper towel, or else the sweat will use up all the blotting paper and you'll still have that day's worth of oil/grease on your face). Fix your hair, use paper towels from the bathroom if your hairline/hair is sweaty. You might want to carry a little container of hair product if you use hair product to look your best or if your hair after work looks really unkempt.

You can also use body wipes if you suspect that deodorant reapplication just to your underarms isn't cutting it.

for me, personally, i get it that life isn't always perfect and we aren't always looking our best. I wouldn't brush off a guy in an evening class who didn't look his best because he had obviously worked a long day before the class. However, odor WOULD be a huge turn off, because even if I'm willing to talk, I'd have to do it from farther away. Anyway, hope you can use some of my quick freshening up tips so you won't look/smell your WORST at this class.

In my opinion the clearblue fertility monitor is over-priced and uses old bulky technology (it has been around in this form-factor for about 15 years).

There is little need to spend the money on it as they sell another product that does exactly the same thing (tests for LH and Estrogen using identical sticks) that is called the "Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test".

The only thing that the Clearblue fertility monitor does that the Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test doesn't is cycle day calendaring and insists on a pre-selected test window - the cheaper Advanced Digital Ovulation Test will show exactly the same status, low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility at exactly the same times.

Don't believe that the Clearblue Easy Fertility Monitor "adapts" to your cycle, it doesn't, it just keeps a note of your cycle length (which you can do with a chart, spreadsheet or fertility friend) - in fact lots of people who are Fertility Monitor pros just start feeding in sticks a couple of days before ovulation and stop after the peak reading.

Compare the prices -

Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test with 20 sticks included
= $35.98

vs

Clearblue Fertility Monitor - $151.99
+ 30 Sticks $48.76 = $200.75

I have all of these types of units btw, the two types of digital ovulation testers and also the CBFM.

NB: You need to make sure that you get the "Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test" not the "Clearblue Digital Ovulation Test" as this one only checks for LH (and not Estrogen and LH like the Advanced Digital Ovulation Test does).

And stop drug testing for pre-employment too! My Easy@Home test kit says I'm clean, but I'm not taking chances. I'm doing a detox cycle and my pee is bright neon yellow right now.

Mage hand is just a cantrip -- it has no agency beyond the caster of the spell. It's like if she used this thing to take the sword. I would still curse the dwarf, as the warning said "Anyone who steals from Mother Night is cursed" not "Anyone who touches the treasures of Mother Night is cursed."

Hugs! It's so hard, just take it day by day. I MC in late August at 12 weeks and have three people announce their pregnancy one due after mine (was due) in March. Today I have to go to Thanksgiving with my husband's family and his cousin has a 10 month old who's perfect. It's such BS, I get it! Take it day by day and if that doesn't work minute by minute.

Have you tried the [Wondfo Strips] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RY8UBNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_X-veAbBJ4DCM1)
I've recently discovered I'm ovulating much sooner than my predictor app on my phone.

Do yourself a gigantic favor and upgrade to a digital one. I personally have and love this one, which can be connected to your phone.

A Wartenburg pinwheel. For use during sexy-times. Gently.

Favorite toy? The Wartenberg Wheel. It's simple and is lovely sensation play. Especially when blindfolded. Just lovely.

If price were no object the first thing I would get is a badass Lberator

No, you should do whatever works for you.

Leangains worked great for me, and for a lot of other people too. But it doesn't work for everyone. Some people do better with many smaller meals.

You need to experiment and figure out what type of diet works best for you and fits in with the rest of your life. Which foods work well for you and which foods trigger binges. You have to plan in some fun food that you can eat with your friends. You have to have some heavy lifting to preserve you muscles, but not so much that you can't recover.

Keep a journal and buy some fat calipers. They really help to figure out what works for you and what does not.

Cutting/Female/5'6"/136lbs: I finally got back to my completion weight, so I can say I'm back on track. I also bought some skin calipers off amazon. SO MUCH FRIGGEN CHEAPER THAN OTHER BODY FAT MEASURES. My body fat is about 23.5%. Prior to the competition it was 24.3% (based on an electrical impedance scale so take that for whatever it's worth). It's really motivating to see the change. I love me some data.

Of course now I'm online trying to find some examples of what 24%, 23%, and 22% body fat looks like on women. Strangely enough, I mainly get pictures which are either 20-21% or 25% guesstimates. Not much in between.

Oh well. I should take more progress pictures.

EDIT: It's this one: https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Health-6575XXXX-Skinfold-Caliper/dp/B000NN9SDO/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1526929211&sr=8-4&keywords=skin+calipers+body+fat

Or you can spend $15 on Amazon and buy one of the most accurate bf measuring device out there. I own two other electronic calipers that cost between $70 and $100 each and do not hold a candle to this manual model. YMMV.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000NN9SDO/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?qid=1426140214&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=accumeasure+body+fat+caliper&dpPl=1&dpID=41l6bynJ7CL&ref=plSrch

I used this scale for a long time: https://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-XL-550-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B0014ZQH84

It worked very well for me and served its purpose. I found it was within a pound or two of the doctor's scale too.

Good luck.

Hahaha, get her something like this!

A pretty cool thing is a SAM splint, which is aluminium sandwiched between foam, and can be versatilely moulded and cut to fit a lot of different positions and have a few different applications.

http://www.amazon.com/EatSmart-Precision-Premium-Bathroom-Technology/dp/B002MK6QKO

It just works.

I have, this one. It worked well for me.

At US$150 It's definitely more expensive than a simpler model like this one at US$24, but the extra cost goes to making it quiet, which is a must if you're using it in cubicle land.

I would like to add the body wipes have been a part of health care for ages and now some venders have made them more sporty and less like something the belongs in a nursing home. Check out this or these. There several others but those are the ones I have heard the most.

A strange look here and there, but no one said anything; I guess it's not that uncommon to see people running since people do it all the time to catch flights. I just took it at a jog and wore basketball shorts instead of running shorts, basically tried to play it low key. If you're planning on doing some airport running, I recommend ShowerPill–large body wipes to clean yourself up when you don't have access to a shower. They're a lifesaver in situations like that.

This kind of thing?

These are the ones I have.
They work quite well and are excellent quality.

I get these OPKs: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G5WGNVQ and these pregnancy tests: https://www.amazon.com/ClinicalGuard®-Pregnancy-Test-Strips-Individually-Sealed/dp/B007VT3BUE
The pregnancy tests are a little more expensive for the 50 pack right now, but the prices vary. It looks like the 100 pack is less than 0.20/test!

It looks like the dudes in WSM wear Rehbands on their elbows (from watching it at least), but it could just be a similar design. I got a pair 4 months ago to squat with and I love them. Never used them on my arms though.

http://www.amazon.com/Rehband-7051-7mm-Knee-Sleeve/dp/B0088KPT64

Maybe you can ask Mr. Shahlaei about it in his upcoming AMA.

Well, I guess I believe that my experience and my education gives me the right to call a doctor lazy or misinformed. I think any doctor that doesn't give you treatment options is lazy. Many doctors have specialties and most of them are not kinesiology, but any doctor should be able to do some research and get back to you with treatment options. I'm been a competitive athlete in many sports my entire life, I've had my share injuries and pains. To go along with this I've had many doctors, some who are very forward thinking about physiology, kinesiology and body wellness and others who subscribe to the "take some advil and stop doing xxxxx" method. Some doctors will be very proactive about educating themselves with the latest research and journals and others will get their degree and just prescribe pills for their whole career.

So, ITBS is caused by many things, but you were not born with it, it is something people develop through their movement patterns.

There are many things that can lead to ITBS, running on sloped surfaces, high or low foot arches (can be corrected with insoles), not sufficient warmup or cool down, and a variety of muscle imbalances.

If your health insurance won't cover a PT you could educate yourself. A really good reference book would by "Becoming A Supple Leopard" by Kelly Starrett PhD. He is a doctor of physical therapy who is the owner of MobiltyWOD.com as well as a world renowned movement and mobility expert. His book is the best resource for the mechanisms of human movement that I have ever seen, and if you read the reviews of the book, many Doctors of Physical Therapy say the same thing.

Additionally, I use these knee sleeves (Rehband, 7mm Knee Sleeve), they are kind of pricey, but they work miracles for abused knees (mine are heavily abused). Pretty much every competitive lifter uses either these or heavy wraps.

http://www.amazon.com/Rehband-7051-7mm-Knee-Sleeve/dp/B0088KPT64

I hope this little bit of info helps and I'd be more than happy to elaborate on anything I've said.

It's kinda like a roll of ultra thin foam that goes on under athletic tape so it doesn't stick to you skin but can still serve it's purpose. Works great to keep hair out of your face, and a lot of girls who play sports use it (especially because some sorts don't allow headbands/bobby pins).

https://www.amazon.com/Mueller-Rainbow-Sports-Pre-Wrap-colors/dp/B00CA5IA4G

Try strapping your feet.

Use 1" athletic tape around your feet and 2" athletic tape across your feet.

The only thing I do different is that I use athletic pre-wrap first so that most of the tape isn't actually touching and irritating my skin.

No one can really answer that for you, everyone is different. Try using [these] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E5O5EV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_ao.MybN5TBXW2) to get an idea if you're clean or not. Took me a month last time I was applying for jobs.

I feel you on this one! Im not sure if I missed my surge this month on OPKs or Im just not ovulating for whatever reason. So now Im just sitting here waiting for AF to show up (not due for another 10-11 days) and if I dont get a BFP this month I need to step it up a couple of notches TTC.


btw, to save your wallet these are the ovulation strips I bought. I can use 2 a day from CD 10 to 30 (my cycle is around 30 days so I could go all out if I wanted to) if I wanted to without using them all and the best part is they come with 20 pregnancy strips which means you could use 1 each day of your TWW and still have a bunch left over if you wanted to go all out.

Also, Im pretty sure most pregnancy tests (including the strips I sent you) require 20-25 mIU of HCG per sample to turn positive where as digital tests require something around 50 mIU of HCG to be positive. That is why youll see people's tests gradually get darker or not turn positive until closer to AF or even after AF depending on the amount of HCG in their system. Its also why a lot of times companies that make pregnancy tests will sell a "confirmation pack". Im pretty sure both clearblue and first response do. Its a double pack of one regular line test and one digital. I'm pretty sure they recommend you use it after a missed period or after the regular line test.

But other than that I know EXACTLY what you mean because I also feel like Im taking crazy pills

Go on Amazon and buy some Wondfo test strips. They should be blue.

Wondfo Combo Ovulation and Pregnancy Tests (50 LH + 20 HCG) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RY8UBNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_DJ89AbTFS27RY

This one is available from Amazon, works pretty well.

https://www.amazon.com.au/Etekcity-Digital-Bathroom-Measure-Tempered/dp/B01HI1W1V4/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Etekcity+Digital+Body+Weight+Bathroom+Scale+with+Body+Tape+Measure%2C+8mm+Tempered+Glass%2C+400+Pounds&qid=1573671511&sr=8-1

​

AUD32.

It is important to temp at roughly the same time every morning. I wake up at 5:30 for work and on days when I'm not working, I still set an alarm for 5:30 to temp, but I just keep the thermometer next to my phone so I can grab it without looking when I turn off the alarm, turn it on, temp, and just turn it off when it beeps. My thermometer has a memory function so I can check the temperature later when I'm more awake.

After nine years of temping for both contraception and TTC, I've decided that this is my favorite thermometer. It has a large display and a backlight so I can see the reading in the dark without turning on a lamp. It has a memory function AND a clock/date setting, so I can double-check that the temperature I'm reading is for the right day. It's large enough and the buttons are big enough that I can find it and push the right buttons to turn it on without looking at it. And you can easily replace the battery when it dies. I also feel like it doesn't "like" certain temperatures the way some thermometers do.

Unfortunately, it looks like my favorite thermometer has been discontinued. This one looks like the closest replacement, but I can't vouch for it personally.

I just ordered this one a week ago

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MFFBT8Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499302964&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=basal+body+thermometer&psc=1

I really like it! Specifically the fact that it has a back light and stores a lot of temps. And it comes in a nice box and I'm a sucker for packaging.

Only thing to be aware of though, is that the "wand" part is bigger than usual thermometers. It's perfect for vaginal temping.
Oral temping is a bit awkward if you have a small mouth lol

Don’t listen to the people commenting on this negatively. I have scoliosis and have tried everything, EVERYTHING under the sun to manage back pain. This device corrected my posture within a few days and has reduced my daily back pain from about a 7 to a 2. The device doesn’t “correct” your posture inherently, but rather helps you to remember to correct and shows you good technique so that you know how to do it yourself. Yes you absolutely need to work on it independently, but this helps so much starting out.

Posture Corrector for Men & Women... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DKHTKP3?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

The reviews are mixed, but if you’re of average size it should be ok. It’s worth a shot for 15 bucks.

Made this account just to leave this comment.. first Reddit post from a lurker woo! Hope it works out for you.

Edited to add that I didn’t do much research before buying as it was an impulse buy. There may be better out there with better design/ materials etc., but this one has worked out just fine for me so far. It is slightly annoying to wear, but definitely worth it.

I use iSnow med. I like it because it stores your temps for like 2 months. It's great for those times that I fall back asleep before I chart.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MFFBT8Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_iMOaJJU6gb9MJ

Im sorry about that but look Check this out at Amazon.com
TRUWEO Posture Corrector For Men And Women - USA Designed Upper Back Brace For Clavicle Support And Providing Pain Relief From Neck, Back & Shoulder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DKHTKP3/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_Fy8YCbSDEH7E8

Its called back posture brace...my sister used to wear one when we were growing up so I know it helps.

Be safe:)

It should be fine, though you might have to look for context: is it a fever thermometer and specifying oral as opposed to underarm or ear temperatures?

I've seen debates about whether fever thermometers work for BBT tracking, but I didn't have a problem. I did buy a special BBT thermometer (Easy@Home brand but looks identical to this one) before switching to vaginal temps, but I think it also said for oral use... again, haven't had any problems.

got this one which i'm loving. i guess i don't really know if they're "more accurate" but i like that i can take my temp twice back to back and get the same reading.

it also takes a lot longer to take my temp. idk if that means anything really, but i feel like i trust it more.

I use the iSnow BBT and like it a lot. Backlight and stores 60 temps, and not too expensive at 25 bucks.

I use Wondfo OPKs. This study was posted on here recently that showed they performed just as well or better as the fancy Clear Blue Fertility Monitor.

The one Im looking at is this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DKHTKP3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ij8ADbQ0PMR8W

This is the one I have. It's backlit, has an alarm, and stores up to 60 temps. The only con I've found with it is that it takes forever to get your reading.

I just bought this one because it has a case, it has memory to look back and see date and times of other temps, and it physically LOOKS different so I don't have to worry about my husband putting it in his mouth if he's sick 😂 I would also recommend picking up some alcohol wipes so you can clean it after every use!

The Wartenburg Pinwheel is something fun. The prickly sensation... but not the same sensation as being trapped in a garbage bag full of angry bees.

Oogady Boogady

When I'm feeling down, I do a lot of writing. Just some short little pieces to try to get my emotions out. It works!

My item

Do it before she arrives. It is more difficult to set them yourself but once you have them in place you can hide the straps easy. And I don't recommend leaving the room, but I do recommend a blindfold. I've listed below some cheap starter equipment if you are looking for more tools to play with. Generally I will start slow and work up to something be it an orgasm, or paingasm and then start the cooldown.

So start slow, build up, climax of some sort, then aftercare. Remember the aftercare. Seriously, aftercare. I generally will take some virgin coconut oil and give my sub a massage after we play.

• Blindfold - Cheap version ($10 http://amzn.com/B001E7BPPW) Expensive nice version (http://amzn.com/B003CGJRNK)
  
• Cuffs - Neoprene with velcro ($14 http://amzn.com/B0052Z8UUK) are the easiest but alot of people like handcuffs ($10 http://amzn.com/B001D4XSYM) but the metal is really taxing on a sub. Leather ones are the best IMO but not cheap (http://amzn.com/B007W52ACW)
  
• Forced orgasms/orgasm denial - The hitachi magic wand is best for this ($47 http://amzn.com/B0089175GE). It's expensive but worth it. Plus you can buy attachment heads for it down the road.
  
• Rope play (Shibari) - You can grab some soft rope for bedroom play ($13 http://amzn.com/B002UV70DM) and visit twistedmonk.com for some instructional videos. For serious rope work you might want to invest in hemp ropes from twistedmonk and sissors for cutting free (http://amzn.com/B001D6YXIU)
  
• Sensation play - feathers ($7 http://amzn.com/B0026I02JI), tickling, pinwheels ($10 http://amzn.com/B000B7N1DA), ice (free, check your freezer)
  
• Spanking/slapping - Using a hand and staying in roughly the safe areas (ass, tits) till you know limits and interest levels
  
• Nipple clamps - Get some aligator nipple clamps that are adjustible so you can start out light and work your way up to harder ($10 http://amzn.com/B002JVWZSI). If you like you can add weights to them down the road
  
• Wax play - You will want to buy special paraffin candles that melt at lower temp for dripping melted wax on your partner ($10 per candle http://etsy.me/18Gwv7b)
  
• Floggers - You can make a call on this based on your experience with spanking ($40 and up http://flogmebaby.com/)
  
  These toys should give you a good baseline on what you like and what you don't. From there I would look around at places like stockroom.com or extremerestraints.com and find out what interests you. Stockroom.com has some of the best selection but is expensive.
  
  Best of luck.
  
  *Edit fixed some links

grab a caliper. they are very inexpensive. they aren't perfect, but they give you a good idea where you are.

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Health-6575XXXX-Skinfold-Caliper/dp/B000NN9SDO

Congrats on yours! My brother has this caliper. It's very accurate. Also, have someone besides yourself do it in the 4 areas, and do it 2-3 times and see what comes up. I have a little loose skin on my lower belly, but that's about it, as far as I can tell.

I'm pretty active, so that plays a part too. I walk 2-3 mi per day, do Battle Rope HIIT 3-4x's/wk, and run a PPLPPLr workout routine.

Keep up the good work!

I use this one, fairly cheap and works great.

http://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-XL-550-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B0014ZQH84/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319202980&sr=8-1

How big are you? I was well over 400, so I had to buy a special scale. I got this XL 550 from Amazon. It works great.

http://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-XL-550-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B0014ZQH84/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1422325189&sr=1-1&keywords=500+pound+scale&pebp=1422325224524&peasin=B0014ZQH84

I can't vouch for the accuracy but you can't beat the price!

My Weigh makes a 550 pound capacity scale that is under $50 and has quite positive reviews.

I'm in my late 20's, I hope it's ok that I post here. I had a fibroid removed during surgery for endometriosis.

If you're having a laparoscopy, the doc will knock you out and then cut 3 holes in your stomach. One of them will pump gas in so the docs have more room to move around. Through another hole s/he will put a camera on the end of a long thin tube. Through the third hole they'll put the instrument to cut (or burn) the fibroid and remove it. they make another cut if they have to use another instrument.

After surgery you'll feel however you feel after anesthesia. Pro-tip if you're prone to puking let the anethesia team know and ask about a scoplamine patch. You'll have some trouble using your ab muscles for a few days. You should ask someone to stay with you and hand you things on shelves and things you'd have to bend to pick up. If you have a friend who has a grabbing stick ask if you can borrow it. Your doc will give info about if/when you can shower and how to clean your scars. Another pro-tip, don't use waterproof band-aids, sweat got trapped in mine and one of the cuts got infected.

After a few weeks at your check-up from the doctor you'll get a piece of paper from the pathologist telling you how big the fibroid was and if there was anything odd about it. If you really want to know you can call the office after a day or two and ask. If your' really lucky, they might even have a picture of it. I'm sure you'll much better with that intrusive tissue out of you and gone.

yeah, but it takes so long to download and install an app. nothing beats a reachin' stick, when ya gotta do some reachin'.

I totally agree with this! I would just carry multiple triangular bandages, as there are so many purposes for them, they are very light, and if OP has a large bag, it can accommodate them. I would completely agree about the splinting, unless you are going to be in very rural or undeveloped areas, in which case I'd through in a SAM splint.

Oh, also I would carry some sort of cutting implement, (NOT FOR TISSUE,) and not necessarily even a knife, maybe just some mini trauma shears. IDK...

Edit: Specific to the rural/wilderness, throw in a space blanket/emergency blanket what have you.

SOTech Viper. Add a hemostatic gauze like QuikClot if you want.

ITS Tallboy / Fatboy with Molly Stix for quick detach.

You can use straight branches for broken limbs, or add a SAM Splint, but it's pretty bulky. You can also get the 18" versions or cut the 36" down to size.

Plus training. You can't just carry these without knowing how to safely use them.

You need to definitely put some thought into what you would need medically in a survival situation where you can't get to a hospital fast.

For example:

Quikclot to stop excessive bleeding until you can get medical help.

Sam Splint in case of a broken arm or leg.

If you break your arm or get a wound deep enough to where your wound won't stop bleeding, it doesn't matter how good you are at casting a net or purifying water.

This is the one I have. I've gone through a few scales, but this one has been working for at least three to four years now. It's still absurdly accurate, and is hardy enough to exist in humid places like the bathroom.

Greatest purchase I've ever made.

I would stay away from ones that measure stuff other than body weight. It's not worth the extra money just to have all of those crazy inaccurate sensors. Get one that measures weight extremely well. You want all the money to be put into that.

I use this one and really like it. It's not too fancy but it's worked really well for a couple years now.

The only thing I don't like is that I think when you first step on it it calibrates itself because it always gives a higher number. I step off and on again and it'll give a consistent weight after that first time.

Seconding! This is my scale and I love it. I get the same weight even when I step on it multiple times, so it seems pretty accurate.

I use this one I picked up on Amazon. I find it to be pretty accurate and easy to use. I work in a hospital and have weighed myself here a few times and find the two measurements to be nearly the same. Also, when it's time to change out the batteries, it takes normal AAA's, which I find pretty convenient.

That withings scale is awesome, but a bit pricey at $160.
I use an "EatSmart Precision Premium Digital Bathroom Scale" that I got from Amazon for $32.95. Amazon.

If I had the extra cash though the withings scale looks freaking awesome.

Why doesn't this exist? Does it exist? I'm going to go Google it.

EDIT: Would you use this?

have you tried a recumbent bike? or what about one of those "pedal bike" sets that's basically pedals on a frame that you can set in front of a chair?
The latter is something that you could set however you find comfortable, or could use as a "handbike" alternatively - meaning you could hold the pedals with your hands with the thing sitting on a table and "pedal" it with your upper body.

What about therabands? you can purchase those online as well, and loop around a doorknob, pillar, etc for a tie point, or make a loop and do various exercises where you need a loop of elastic for resistance.

You can also use soup cans, a small bag of rice, and things like that for light weights to do exercises with. You'll of course want to make sure you medically can do so, but there are a lot of decent youtube videos done by physical therapists with exercises for different issues like sciatica etc, for various stretches etc. make sure a doctor says you can do these, or you've been through therapy and know that you can do them, you can hurt yourself without being sure you are physically okay do do the exercises

you can try /r/loseit for weight loss ideas... but the only thing I can say is that calories input have to drop for weight loss to work. I've kept 40lbs off... but it's a fight. I backslide a few pounds from time to time... but fight to get rid of them again....I try to aim for 1500 calories a day... and I'm realistic....I'm not going to be able to completely avoid junk food, so I don't... I aim to be honest with myself that I want it, and just count it towards that limit... and to not give up trying to limit the junk to small amounts!

If you want someone to just chat with for encouragement, you're welcome to message me. I'm still fighting with the scale too!

I think a Food processer is very important! You can use veggies in crazy ways if you can break them down. Even nuts can be used as a cookie base. It's a little more work but making homemade sauces can be so much healthy, especially if you can sneak in extra veggies!

Lets all sing Portion Control amen. And don't forget measuring cups and spoons, to control condiments, you could also just use the cups instead of the fancy portion measurer



I also recommend getting one of these under desk peddlers promise yourself you'll use it when watching T.V or doing reddit.

Pedometer a nifty affordable way to keep track of how much you are actually walking. I'm going to buy one just to make myself walk more!

Tape measure this is going to be surprisingly important. I've been trying to get back into shape since last September and I've only lost 15 pounds. I didn't keep track of my measurements, and I wish I had. My pants are almost falling off, but the proof of the numbers would be more of a morale booster. Easier to pass on the second helping of Chinease food if you KNOW you're making progress!

I wish you great luck! I think eating healthy is most important,but it feels so good, to just work the heck out,and be covered in sweat, and know you whooped that workouts ass! And another idea is to watch your department stores, I got my $200 stationary bike for $40 bucks,because it was a floor model,and was missing a little cover on one of the edges that touch the floor.

I got mine on Amazon. They aren't great, mostly meant for the old and infirm. But it does burn an extra calorie or so a minute. And I was working 12 hour days. So I probably biked 3-6 hours a day. So 180-360 calories. Even felt it the next day.

the idea was "When I worked at Wal-Mart all I did was walk. for 9 hours a day, and I lost weight eating crap. How can I replicate that slow pace at a desk job."

I will say this: It required a strange sitting position for me, other wise I would have used it more often.

If you don’t have a shower at work, these are great on hot days or if you’re a sweater like me: https://www.amazon.com/Shower-Cleaning-Special-Cleansing-Solution/dp/B0061QL8EE

I use baby wipes and shower wipes when I get to work since I don't have access to showers. Currently using these and they work well.

http://www.amazon.com/Zeiss-Pre-Moistened-Lens-Cleaning-Wipes/dp/B0030E4UIQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1458854640&sr=8-2&


and when you play something exhausting:
http://www.amazon.com/Athletic-Body-Wipes-ShowerPill--10/dp/B0061QL8EE/ref=sr_1_34?ie=UTF8&qid=1458854951&sr=8-34-spons&

Just to throw in another suggestion, I use ShowerPill Athletic Body Wipes when I'm running late and don't have time to shower. I find they work really well, and don't take up much room at all in my bag.

It's on Amazon. :D http://amzn.com/B0061QL8EE

Have you thought about picking up an Optivisor or a Jeweler's Loup?

https://www.amazon.com/Donegan-Optical-OptiVISOR-Headband-Magnifier/dp/B0068OSIIS?th=1&psc=1

Tools would have less to do with what forms of jewelry she is making (necklace, earrings, rings etc) and more to do with the techniques she is using (forging, wire-wrapping, stringing, soldering etc). That's why it might be wise to either ask her what she wants or let her choose specifically. Could be there is a technique she has been wanting to explore and you could get her set up to do that.

Loupes are typically 10x.

The optivisor magnification strength depends what she is doing and how close she needs to be to do it. I have one of these: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0068OSIIS/ref=biss_dp_sa1 I use mine primarily for faceted stone-setting where I need to be close to my work piece and do very precise and detailed work, so I have the 3.5x, 4" focal length. I would think between 2.5x-3.5x might be good for her.

You can also get the empty headgear and buy multiple lensplates for her to interchange.

https://www.amazon.com/Donegan-Optical-OptiVISOR-Headband-Magnifier/dp/B0068OSIIS

It's for all sorts of fine work. I've used it for soldering, jewelry, and mini painting.

I bought these

http://www.amazon.com/ClinicalGuard%C2%AE-Pregnancy-Test-Strips-Individually-Sealed/dp/B007VT3BUE?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00

Er, actually, they are cheap if you get them in bulk. (50-pack, 60.)

And yes, there's very little difference; they're FDA-regulated. The main thing is that some are a little bit more sensitive, which can give you a few more days warning, but also more false alarms.

You can also get combo packs of ovulation and pregnancy detection, but some people think that takes some of the fun out of it.

Best quality. Will last a long time.


Rehband Knee Sleeves https://www.amazon.com/Rehband-7mm-Knee-Sleeve-Original/dp/B0088KPT64


Adipower shoes https://www.amazon.com/adidas-Performance-Adipower-Weightlifting-Trainer/dp/B00Q047LLQ


Inzer Belt https://www.inzernet.com/detail_belt.asp?PRODUCT_ID=FOREVER_LEVER_10MM

From you this means a lot.

Also get some Rehband knee sleeves for those fucking clicking knees, dude. They work miracles.

http://www.amazon.com/Rehband-7mm-Knee-Sleeve-Original/dp/B0088KPT64

These are amazing for knee support

This is the one that I have: https://www.amazon.com/Clearblue-Ovulation-Predictor-Featuring-Packaging/dp/B00AOJ5R8W/ref=sr_1_4?crid=20ES6WHATG8Q9&keywords=clear+blue+digital+ovulation+tests&qid=1571773342&sprefix=clear+blue+%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-4

I bought mine at Walmart, but it's the same one. As far as I know, you can't just buy the refill sticks. You have to by the whole kit each time.

I get them from Amazon, but I'm sure you can find a better deal somewhere. They are pricey for something you put pee on, but I think they're worth it.

You can use the old monitor with new sticks when you run out. Then old sticks with a new monitor. So, a box can last 2 to 3 cycles depending.

You say it's the one with just the sticks, do you mean this one?

Okay so I can’t find the stuff I read before (derp) but on the amazon reviews there’s someone that called and got the explanation, and there’s others who were getting husbands pee/tap water and getting high results because of the programming of it. I’ll try again to find the stuff later but for now: link

That's really expensive. Try Amazon, you will get 20 tests for $40.

I know I've seen this answer somewhere on TFAB, but for the life of me...I cannot find it!

I've been using the CBAD OPK for 2 cycles. I know I need to buy it again so I can have more strips for this cycle, but what I'm not sure about is using the new plastic test holder.

Do I keep using the one I currently have (with the new strips), or use the holder that comes in the new box I just ordered? Thanks!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AOJ5R8W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's digital, and it gives you the two peak high fertility days, and the surrounding high days

First, I do this both with pre-wrap and then a self-adhesive wrap (compression wrap) or ACE bandage.

I like to wrap the foot once then cross over the top of the foot to just above the ankle bones, one full wrap around the leg, cross to the foot, repeat until there's enough pressure/support or I run out of material on the roll.

You can use pre-wrap to make a cheap headband that doesn't slide around

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yva0QPVItzo

We've had our grey with SLO for 8 years and we have found great success with four 1000mg fish oil capsules, two 180mg vitamin E capsules, and a dosage of Doxycycline every day. I will say it took a LONG time for us to see consistent progress and even now a nail will still break once in a while but they are few and far between, finally. It also took us awhile to find the right dosage of meds and the right food (he's on Nutro Max). It really sucks, but if you stay consistent with meds and supplements, I promise it will get better!

Can I offer you some tips on dealing with it in the meantime? We've had a lot of practice so I love to share that knowledge, though you may have already gotten some of this advice from your vet.

• Buy gauze in bulk!
  
• Athletic pre-wrap and athletic self-sticking wrap are fantastic for keeping the gauze in place. Be careful not to wrap too tight — you don't want to cut off circulation.
  
• If you're not comfortable wrapping her paws yourself, get comfortable. It will save you so many trips to the vet! Ask your vet if they will teach you how to wrap if you're not already familiar with wrapping techniques.
  
• Styptic powder is a godsend for when a nail breaks and the blood is gushing everywhere. Dab it on with cotton balls.
  
• Don't wrap until the bleeding has stopped, if you can. Otherwise the blood soaks the gauze and then dries and when you peel it off it will hurt and sometimes cause the wound to reopen. A hard lesson for us. If you have to wrap because your grey just won't sit still to let you apply pressure, we have found some success in letting ours lick his foot JUST UNTIL the bandage comes free. Obviously don't let them lick obsessively or that will reopen the wound as well, but it seems to help with getting dried, bloody bandages off.
  
• Breathable dog booties are really helpful for keeping them from licking the wound while enabling you to keep it unbandaged after it has stopped bleeding/semi-healed (we found ours at Pet Smart but they are similar to these). We also have a set of waterproof booties that we put on both bandaged and unbandaged injured paws when he goes outside to keep the area clean and dry.
  
• Keep all of this stuff together in a big ziplock baggie near where your grey hangs out the most so you can easily grab it quickly when a nail comes off and prevent them from trailing blood all over your house!
  
• That said, we've found a combo of Resolve Stain Remover and hydrogen peroxide to be the best for getting blood out of the carpet.
  
  I hope this is helpful and if I can answer any more questions, please feel free to ask! I'm sorry you're going through this and are still in the early, frustrating stages where you're finding what works and your pup is still in pain a lot. Bigby says, it gets better!

In my experience the cheap ones tend to stretch out quickly. Lululemon makes pretty nice ones if you want to invest in something that will last a bit longer.

Another thing I always used as a soccer player was foam prewrap. http://www.amazon.com/Mueller-Rainbow-Sports-Pre-Wrap-colors/dp/B00CA5IA4G

One roll will make lots of headbands and it sticks to hair really well.

Walmart and such. I get it online:
https://www.amazon.com/Mueller-Rainbow-Sports-Pre-Wrap-colors/dp/B00CA5IA4G

When I played soccer we used to use PreWrap, you pull off a piece and knot it into a loop, might help if you feel like most headbands are too small since you can make it whatever size you want. Works great.

I use these: 10 Pack - Easy@Home Marijuana (THC) Single Panel Drug Tests Kit - Individually Wrapped Single Panel THC Screen Urine Drug Test Kit with 50 ng/ml Cutoff Level - EDTH-114 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E5O5EV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qwKlDbA9QF1YS

You mentioned that you last smoked around late August... how often would you smoke before that? Like every day or just on occasions? I used to smoke everyday & decided to quit to apply for a federal job & it took me 2 1/2 months to flush out all of the THC. I bought a 10 pack of at home drug tests from amazon so that I can test myself every week or 2. If you smoked a lot, you might still test dirty. these are the tests I bought on amazon

Not the same as OP, but:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E5O5EV2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Reacher-Grabber-Vive-Rotating-Extension/dp/B00O47NWE6

Like this?

So I just need to turn off my phone, put on a hat/jacket and use a grabber?
https://www.amazon.com/Reacher-Grabber-VIVE-Extension-Guarantee/dp/B00O47NWE6/


Wonder how many edge cases they've covered :)

Just use one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Reacher-Grabber-VIVE-Rotating-Extension/dp/B00O47NWE6/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1501711870&sr=8-3&keywords=grabber

Yup I get a combo pack with the pregnancy tests so that I can pee on those too ;) http://www.amazon.com/Wondfo-Combo-Ovulation-Pregnancy-Strips/dp/B00RY8UBNC

Welcome to the sub!

I got two from CVS (dog ate the first one -_-) for $7-$9 and they worked just fine. No need to wait for an online order if you have a CVS nearby.

As far as the ovulation tests, I'd recommend this kit from Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Wondfo-Combo-Ovulation-Pregnancy-Strips/dp/B00RY8UBNC

When you order, make sure to check the shipper against this list of authorized retailers so you don't get duds: https://community.babycenter.com/post/a55235887/fyi-_authorized_wondfo_sellersdistributors

I'm assuming you're in the states

Well I don't personally use this one but it's very highly rated on amazon and has all the features you're asking about: scale

Congrats on losing weight!

> I go to rite aid to weigh myself and I probably way the same as I did. (Although I can't remember)

If you want to lose weight consistently and keep it off then you need to get serious. First thing, you cannot manage that which you do not measure. Getting results in anything worthwhile is all about the data.

Here's a picture of me today and 34 days ago: http://imgur.com/a/sRDI1

See that cool chart of my daily weight on the right? It's from a bluetooth bathroom scale that syncs with my phone. It never forgets and I don't have to do anything to have an actionable record of my results. You can get a bluetooth scale for $28 delivered on Amazon. Think of it as an investment in your future. (https://www.amazon.com/1byone-Bluetooth-Wireless-Bathroom-Visceral/dp/B01FHELB56).

> Very lazy, meaning I eat a regular meal some days and some days I'm all in.

Lazy keto gets lazy results. The good news is, doing keto right is simple and almost no more effort than what you're doing now.

Install the free app My Fitness Pal on your phone and start tracking everything you eat. It scans barcodes and already has entries for everything, so it's just a few taps to log your intake. Once you know what you're eating and how that impacts your weight, it's much easier to make consistent and rapid progress.

I use 1byonewellness. It pairs up with the smart scale I have
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01FHELB56/ref=mp_s_a_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1517883816&sr=8-5&keywords=smart+scale&dpPl=1&dpID=41rfToxbb6L&ref=plSrch

I love this scale. I've had it for a few years and it connects to the app on my phone with a bunch of cool info. It's pretty too!

I bought this one and it's working well as far as I can tell. I've tested it with 10 lb weights and it's always been accurate, and I can step on the scale three times in a row and get the same weight.

https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Digital-Bathroom-Measure-Tempered/dp/B01HI1W1V4/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1541335163&sr=8-3&keywords=Etekcity+Digital+Bathroom+Body+Weight+Scale

Awesome pinwheel of awesome and doom

Magic

Here is what I would like...<3

http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Leather-Riding-Crop-Whip/dp/B000C09XX8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1372204117&sr=8-2&keywords=riding+crop

and also

http://www.amazon.com/3695-Wartenburg-Pinwheel-Stainless-Steel/dp/B000B7N1DA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1372204271&sr=8-2&keywords=pinwheel

all together it will be less than $15 ;) xoxox and thanks for the contest!

these can be a lot of fun just be careful not to press too hard.

Well this should scare you - I amazon searched dildo as a starting point, and this was the second result.

(don't worry, it's not a dildo, you can click on it at work)

Uh... this isn't for... down there... right? O.O

Woo Mega Man!! I'm not much of a gamer anymore but Mega Man was my first love.

What punk bands do you like? I got into punk as a teenager when I discovered Bad Religion. I was mesmerized by their lyrics.

Here's one thing of mine that's under $5:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000B7N1DA/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_1_7?colid=3GLRUTR3LZ90M&coliid=I3827U0YV6UNF6

Those charts are from an Excel spreadsheet I keep updated with the data. In order to get this data, you need a normal scale and a pair of skinfold calipers. Here is a decent pair http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Health-6575XXXX-Skinfold-Caliper/dp/B000NN9SDO - once you have those, you can get your body fat percent. Then, by simply weighing yourself you can figure your body fat to lean muscle ratio. There are several different equations you can choose from to determine the body fat %, but once you start with the equation you must measure yourself in that same series of spots every time. Over time you'll see changes, hence the charts above. Which I simply put into Excel and graphed over a year.

They're very inaccurate, but honestly no more inaccurate than posting a picture in the Body Fat Friday threads. Take it with a grain of salt and assume it's wrong; however, if it is your only means, I'd continue using it just as a show of progress. Just don't be like, "The scale says I'm 14%. That means I'm 14%." It should be more like, "The scale says I'm 13% now. I'm probably not, but I still made progress according to my only means of measurement."

I would suggest getting one of these or one of these to measure more accurately. This calculator uses neck and waist (plus hips for women) circumferences to determine body fat levels. This calculator can be set to use a 3 point skinfold test to determine body fat levels.

get calipers to measure body fat % from Amazon.com. I used this one.

Automatic one.

[The one I bought.](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QURRUK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00(http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QURRUK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00)

Well. It happens. You are doing the right thing, add or change the measurements. You gain muscle without exercising what results in weight too of course.
I'm using this caliper: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000NN9SDO/ref=mp_s_a_1_5_a_it?qid=1463213265&sr=8-5&keywords=body+fat+caliper
And the Orbitape.

Also the included book is nice to know where to measure.(It's the same Tim mentioned in his book)

Just keep going next week will be big.

Thanks. Fyi. Ive heard that caliper with the click is not that good. You want to get the one with the spring. It's on sale on amazon right now.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NN9SDO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have this one http://www.amazon.com/My-Weigh-XL-550-Talking-Bathroom/dp/B0014ZQH84/ref=pd_sbs_hpc_3

I love this question! I have no idea if it's possible. Though here is a scale amazon has that goes to 550. And it talks too, apparently.
talking scale

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014ZQH84 used since I was 512lbs

food scale: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FSWB9K/ref=oh_o00_s00_i00_details

me scale: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014ZQH84/ref=oh_o00_s00_i00_details

Perhaps this? Or a long coat hanger and a lot of patience. Maybe even an angled piece on the end of a shop vac.

Hugs I literally feel your pain. I keep telling myself that it’ll be over before I know it and that it’ll be worth it in the long run. Have you tried heat or ice? I’ve been alternating ice and heat and it helps a little, and I’m staying off my feet as much as I can. It sucks though. I’ll be so happy when I can put pants on like a normal person again.
Oh! Another thing that has been a HUGE help is I have this pinchy grabber stick thing that I can pick things up off the floor with. I highly recommend one!

Seconding the pillow, yummy snacks, something to do that doesn't involved walking around, one of these types of things to pick stuff up (he's probably not supposed to bend over for a while), gift certificate for takeout food, warm cozy socks.
Hoping your friend is feeling physically well and in an emotionally good place!

Service! https://www.amazon.com/32-Reacher-Grabber-Pick-Stick/dp/B0016P1VT2

I had to get a grabber (32" EZ Reacher and Grabber (Pick Stick) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0016P1VT2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1Wy4Bb0TW8WXQ)

It’s a win-win because not only can I grab stuff, but my husband feels REALLY bad when he sees me use it and just ends up doing the task.

https://www.amazon.com/32-Reacher-Grabber-Pick-Stick/dp/B0016P1VT2

And PPE

This helped my grandpa immensely after his back surgery https://www.amazon.com/32-Reacher-Grabber-Pick-Stick/dp/B0016P1VT2

Lifehack?

In a mass casualty situation, I would completely ignore anyone that needed CPR and focus on the bleeders. The time you spend giving one person CPR could be used stabilizing a dozen people who are bleeding.

For extremities, the most useful thing is a tourniquet. I prefer one with a windlass like a [CAT] (https://www.amazon.com/C--Combat-Application-Tourniquet-GENERATION/dp/B018R73OWI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623443&sr=8-1&keywords=gen+7+cat+tourniquet) or [SOFTT] (https://www.amazon.com/Tac-Med-Solutions-SOFTT-W-Tourniquet/dp/B00E3W3BK2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623620&sr=8-2&keywords=sof-t) over a [TK4] (https://www.amazon.com/H-Associates-TK4-Tourniquet/dp/B003YHGKF0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623679&sr=8-1&keywords=tk4+tourniquet) or [SWAT] (https://www.amazon.com/SWAT-T-Tourniquet-Black-1-Count/dp/B003IWNOVO/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623735&sr=8-2&keywords=swat+tourniquet).

For injuries to the abdomen, armpit, crotch, or neck; you will want a homeostatic agent. [Combat Gauze] (https://www.amazon.com/QuickClot-Combat-Gauze-Z-Fold/dp/B001E1CLTC/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623859&sr=8-1&keywords=combat+gauze) is the way to go here, it is much better than powdered QuickClot.

For penetrating chest trauma (also called 'sucking chest wounds'), you need a large, occlusive bandage on both the entry and exit. In clinical testing of chest seals, the [Halo] (https://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Medical-Performance-Occlusive-Dressing/dp/B003VSORKC/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468624256&sr=8-3&keywords=chest+seal) and [Hyfin] (https://www.amazon.com/North-American-Rescue-Hyfin-Chest/dp/B00KQS2NGK/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468624483&sr=8-1&keywords=hyfin) drastically outperformed the [Asherman] (https://www.amazon.com/Rusch-Inc-849100-Asherman-Chest/dp/B0015TE9N4/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468624546&sr=8-2&keywords=asherman+chest+seal).

I also personally have a [decompression needle] (http://www.rescue-essentials.com/h-h-needle-decompression-kit-tpak/) to treat tension pneumothorax, but I advise you not to get it unless you have specific training on it.

For general bleeding the [Israeli bandage] (https://www.amazon.com/Israeli-Bandage-Shipped-Israel-Inches/dp/B00JKMPJBY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1468625201&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=israeli+bandage&psc=1) is way better than other bandages.

You will also want an [NPA] (https://www.amazon.com/Nasopharyngeal-Airway-Fr-9-3mm-Surgilube/dp/B003950R2E/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468625347&sr=8-1&keywords=nasal+pharyngeal+airway) to help keep an open airway.

Edit, I forgot that you are also going to want a good pair of [trauma shears] (https://www.amazon.com/Madison-Supply-Premium-Fluoride-Scissors/dp/B00YFG1U86/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468625730&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=trauma+shears&psc=1).

Some other things to consider are rubber gloves, [Kerlix] (https://www.amazon.com/Original-Kerlix-Sterile-Bandage-Rolls/dp/B00UAULWR0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468626013&sr=8-1&keywords=kerlix), [cravats] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HBG726G/ref=ox_sc_mini_detail?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AR9BYY7RS0Q08), [medical tape] (https://www.amazon.com/Durapore-Medical-Tape-Silk-yards/dp/B000C4O7GC/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1468626363&sr=1-2&keywords=medical+tape), a [SAM splint] (https://www.amazon.com/SAM-Rolled-Splint-Orange-Blue/dp/B001J5H92C/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1468626238&sr=1-1&keywords=sam+splint), and a [space blanket] (https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Mylar-Blankets-84-52/dp/B004356WLY/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1468626282&sr=1-1&keywords=space+blanket).

Even cheaper is to buy something called a Sam splint. Basically the exact same thing but meant for splinting bones.

It's the strange irony that the medical version of this device cost 1/3 what the auto version costs.

https://www.amazon.com/SAM-Rolled-Splint-Orange-Blue/dp/B001J5H92C

If you want something to support a broken limb, check out a Sam Splint. Super light and compact, and great in a pinch to keep a flappy arm a little more stable.

Throw out all the numbers now, and start again. Use ONE scale to log your progress.


I believe bathroom scales vary in general. One of the first things I did when I started prioritizing my health, was invest in a decent scale with enough capacity to accommodate me (I was well over 360lbs at the time) - and by "invest" I mean "spent $35 on scale with good reviews on Amazon"

Since then, I've used that scale and only that scale to log my body weight. I generally only weight in once every 7-14 days. Weight loss is a slow process (and it gets slower as your progress).

I found, for me, it was a lot more productive make an effort not to think about my diet, but rather, make it a part of my new lifestyle. I tried disconnected myself from the process, and weighing in less frequently was one of the tools that personally helped me do that.

Keep in mind: body weight is not the best barometer for health. People often ask me about my "weight loss" and I'll sometimes politely correct them by saying my goal isn't to "lose weight", but rather, "lower my body fat".

Obviously getting a body fat analysis every month isn't practical - so sometimes the scale is the only convenient way to track progress - but don't let that number torture you. Lowering your body fat is math and science. If you're doing things right the scale still might not move every day, or every week... but have faith, it will.

http://www.amazon.com/EatSmart-Precision-Premium-Bathroom-Technology/dp/B002MK6QKO/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1319421275&sr=8-5

I've been using this one ever since I started my weight loss regimen. It's delightfully accurate - I weighed myself in the morning, went to the doctor's office, and had the same weight on his balance scale. It rounds off to the nearest .2, but I'm really happy with how it works. Be sure to read the instructions if you get it; you can calibrate each time you use it.

It might be a bit pricey, but with something as important in your life as weight (i.e. the little changes that keep you going), it's totally worth the money.

Additionally, it lets you clearly see the huge fluctuations caused by water weight if you weigh yourself on a daily basis. Again, though, read the directions to get the best use of it.

This one

Also I keep it in my bedroom.

I just got this one (EatSmart Precision), and am really happy with it. It is very consistent, and you don't have to tap it and wait to turn it on.

This scale is really good. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002MK6QKO You have to step on it and then step off and let it power down and then weigh yourself (need to calibrate first). After that it's really accurate. The reason that the daily weigh in works for me is that it gives me a chance to think about what I did right or wrong the previous day (or two). I don't worry if I tick up a tiny bit on a given day or stay flat for several days. I like the tight feedback loop.

Can you use something like this or this?

Something like this might help you; put it on a table and pedal quickly with your arms.

http://www.amazon.com/Drive-Medical-Exerciser-Attractive-Silver/dp/B002VWK09Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1377041762&sr=8-2&keywords=hand+pedals

The standalone pedals are probably the cheapest and most logical purchase.

http://www.amazon.com/Drive-Medical-Exerciser-Attractive-Silver/dp/B002VWK09Q

I've got the same concern/question. I've always wondered about these things: One and Two - this one looks a little weird.


Obviously you wouldn't burn a TON... but what does loseit think about 'em? I'm stuck at my desk at work for 8 (if I'm lucky), 10 (usually), and sometimes 12+ hrs a day, and most of the time my sweatpants and couch are WAY more appealing than the gym. I know I'm not going to be successful without working out, I'm just looking for alternatives/options for those really shitty weeks that I really don't have a spare second to breath, let alone a few hours for working out.

My mother in law has this: http://www.amazon.com/Drive-Medical-Exerciser-Attractive-Silver/dp/B002VWK09Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1341472060&sr=1-1&keywords=under+desk+pedal

Or, at least it looks just like this. I've used it playing around and it worked fine! It has a knob to adjust the how hard it is to peddle.... this is where it isn't exactly a fine piece of machinery... it gets loose very easily. The nice thing is, it doesn't matter. If you have it set for no resistance at all, you're still moving your legs and keeping active.

They are easy to use while on the couch.

This bike pedal thingy is the main health related thing on my list (it's on my private list though). Your contest has certainly inspired me to look for more healthy things on amazon for inspiration though! Been working on getting into better shape for several months now and never hurts to keep doing a little more.

Hey I totally understand, I work at a bike shop without a shower and a few of us have had this issue. Unfortunately, I live too far away to bike into work, but a few of us use these, but I've also heard good things about these. Best of luck!

I happen to be a gym rat already so I work out most of the time before showering. But sometimes I get in slumps and don't work out at all. If you're really concerned about appearances, go in the middle of the night. Most Planet Fitness, Anytime Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness are open 24/7. So are many smaller gyms. They give you an access card and you can go when nobody else is there. Also just buy a gym bag with a team logo on it so you look like someone who works out. Don't carry your whole life in your shower bag; make it look like you're there solely to work out and/or shower. If you take a hiking backpack in the gym, people may notice! :)

I've noticed some 24 Hour Fitness in Colorado and San Diego have no shower curtains; LA Fitness has partly transparent ones. I avoid those specific locations. Not into voyeurism. But yeah I take my bottle of body wash and shampoo into the shower. I pay my due just like everyone else. Definitely bring all your own stuff and invest $10 in a pair of sandals/flip-flops to wear in the shower.

There are also full-body shower wipes when you simply do not feel like being around a bunch of old, naked dudes talking about sports and politics in the locker room.

http://www.amazon.com/Athletic-Body-Wipes-ShowerPill-10/dp/B0061QL8EE

P.S. I also have a Helio Camp Shower. It has a foot pump for pressures and one of those rinse things to wash with like most sinks have. Works awesome when you're off-grid or boondocking.

http://brianwilkins.org/?p=374

I use magnifying glasses and a hook with a ergonomic grip! The glasses make all the difference though this is the pair I use

Those eyes are really cool. I've got a bunch of mini's showing up soon from the Bones 3 kickstarter and will have to try that out on some of the bigger pieces before working it down to the smaller ones. Unfortunately most of the large models I have now are Big stompy robots (privateer press Cryx) and they don't really have eyes on them.

I have not tried a magnifier head set. I tried using the magnifier on a pair of helping hands but I had no sense depth perception so it didn't really work out for me. I've heard that the headsets work fairly well and you can maintain your sense of depth. Let's just say they're on the old wishlist so I can try them out.

You can get the OptiVisor brand with a set of lenses in various magnifications, and you can get optional clip-on lighting and those little swing-down clip-on monocle magnifiers to augment the ones that are mounted into the visor. The optional lens is basically the same kind that some jewelers wear clipped onto their eyeglasses for close work.

https://www.google.com/search?q=optivisor

http://www.amazon.com/Donegan-Optical-OptiVISOR-Headband-Magnifier/dp/B0068OSIIS

The OptiVisor brand has been around for many years and you can buy them secondhand for not too much. I inherited mine from my grandmother 40+ years ago. The lenses are held out away from your face a little by the visor part so you can use it while wearing eyeglasses.

Surgical quality ones would be a whole 'nother ballgame.

20x?!! Are you sure she's using a true 20x loupe? If you picked up a cheap loupe online, chances are, it's not a 20x. For instance: http://www.amazon.com/SE-Loupe-LED-Illuminated-21mm/dp/B0013E3DAG => advertised to be 20x, but turns out to be ~5.5x.

I would recommend first figuring out the minimum magnification power your wife needs to read small text. Reason: There is an inverse relationship between magnification power, and depth of field and field of view. Meaning, there is no 20x magnifier that can give you a huge field of view (I have a true 20x, and dear god, it is useless to me since it can only view about 1 character at a time).

Here's an example of the tradeoff: I own several Donegan OptiVISOR headband magnifiers. At first, I ordered their most powerful model, the 3.5x. The 3.5x has a focal length of 4", and a depth of field of about 1". This means, in order for me to have a clear image of what I'm observing, I need to make sure I maintain a 3" to 5" distance between the lens and the item under observation; it was just exhausting.

After trial and error, I ended up with the the 1.75x. It has a focal length of 14", and a depth of field of about 4". Which means, I can keep the item under observation at a distance of 10" - 18", which is much more forgiving.

In case you're interested in the headband magnifier: http://www.amazon.com/Donegan-OptiVisor-Headband-Magnifier-Magnification/dp/B0068OSIIS/

I purchased this Donegan OptiVisor Headband Magnifier -- You can get different magnification of lenses. I find it to be light weight and easy to pop up and you can use them with or without glasses without issue. Also, they are optically correct in that they show no distortion.

I think I got better focus through LiveView, zoomed, while also using an Optivisor. It sort of acts like a sunshade as well.


I tried zooming with BYE and adjusting the focus that way, but it was much harder to shade the laptop than the view screen on the camera.

Someone mentioned using a magnifying glass in conjunction with LiveView zoomed, and a large bill hat. I use the Optivisor for work, so it's second nature for me to look through one.

If you have Amazon Prime... ClinicalGuard® HCG Pregnancy Test Strips (Individually-Sealed, Pack of 50) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007VT3BUE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_dvMTAbY179XKK
They are the easiest and cheapest and have helped reassure me. But maybe waiting and just trying to keep your mind off of it is best.

A couple of things. First, amazon offers pregnancy test strips way cheaper than drug stores. If you're the type of person to test often i highly recommend.

Second - If you're super excited about getting pregnant then it might be a good idea to distract yourself to lessen the pressure. Maybe take up a new healthy hobby to help prepare your body for all the changes? Or work on wedding stuff to distract yourself, I'm sure there's plenty to do :-)

The generic tests found at drugstores and even dollar stores are just as accurate if you've missed your period, and sometimes even manufactured by the same companies as the regular tests. Also, you can get a pack of 50 test strips on Amazon for $10. You dip them in a cup of your pee rather than peeing on a stick, but they work just fine and are WAY cheaper! $10 for 50 strips and $4 for disposable cups, and you've got the same cost as ONE brand-name test from a store!

https://www.amazon.com/Rehband-7mm-Knee-Sleeve-Original/dp/B0088KPT64

this could be just general wear-and-tear on your knees from participating in sports, weight lifting, etc.

i used to play a lot of basketball (running on hardwood, of course) and would experience some random, acute pains and aches and creaks and pops when doing leg exercises. something that was supremely beneficial to me both instantaneously and even in the present day is investing in knee sleeves. specifically, i bought a pair of rehbands

other than that, it is explicitly against the rules to offer medical advice. but i hope you take my suggestions to mind. if all else fails, see a/your doctor.

General rule when shopping at Big 5:

Is it shoes? ----> Yes-----> Buy them if they are on sale

|

|

V

No -----> Don't buy it, it's shit.

These are supposed to be the standard

http://www.amazon.com/Rehband-7051-7mm-Knee-Sleeve/dp/B0088KPT64

I really only use them for heavy squats and cleans. They do provide a nice amount of support.

For other things I use http://store.hookgrip.com/shop/black-red-hookgrip-knee-sleeves/ just to keep the knees warm. They don't provide support but they are $14 for a pair vs $45 each for the Rehband sleeves.

A couple of people at my gym got knee sleeves to help with it. Specifically the Rehband brand ones. They said that it definitely helped to keep the knees warm and reduced the pain during lifts.

Keep in mind that they all also did rehad exercises that a PT at our gym had them do to help. Don't know the exact exercises they went through unfortunately.

I liked the clear blue digital advanced. You can get a 2 month pack for $40 on amazon , depending on how long your cycles are and how frequently you test (2x/day vs 1x/day).

I like them because they test for estrogen levels which increase before LH starts to surge. So your supposed to get some advanced warning of O.

I'm not 100% positive this is the one but I think it is: Clearblue Ovulation Test.

Warning: they are really f'ing expensive if you go a few months.

I use Clear Blue as well. These to be particular. http://www.amazon.com/Clearblue-Advanced-Digital-Ovulation-Count/dp/B00AOJ5R8W/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1418867664&sr=1-1&keywords=clearblue

This is my first go round at this though, so I am not sure if it works or not. Hopefully I will come back with good news. I did notice though that I went straight from an empty circle to a smiley face in one day. I read their site and sometimes women just go straight into peak without having a high fertility test reading. It isn't normal, but I was told to trust the test and that it was really sensitive.

Love the info! Thank you. Mainly I meant the product listing.. Haha! Is it this one or this one?

Thanks again for sharing the study!

Yes! I'm allergic to tape & bandaids. When I need something big covered up I use sports pre-wrap, like this: https://www.amazon.com/Mueller-Rainbow-Sports-Pre-Wrap-colors/dp/B00CA5IA4G

Weird but get some prewrap tape. It's cheap too. You can make a headband or wrap a few times for a hairband. It's crazy strong and the only thing that holds my daughters massive thick curly hair. It is also the only thing I have found that doesn't leave a big dent in either of our hair http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00CA5IA4G/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1464724983&sr=8-1&keywords=prewrap&pi=SX200_QL40

1. The Army sends your urine to a lab that uses the Olympus AU-800 Automated Chemistry Analyzer for analysis.
   
   
2. A few days before drill find a local commercial lab that uses that same instrument and pay to have your own urine tested confidentially. Generally, there are a lot of labs like that around.
   
   
3. If you don't pass your own private test don't go to drill. If you do pass, go to drill with knowledge that you are safe.
   
   
4. Conversly, I've heard the national guard uses 50 ng/ml sensitivity test strips to detect drugs in your urine. They do it right there on base, and only send in the samples that fail. If this is the cases, then you should buy your own kit (such as this) and test yourself before you decide whether you want to go to drill.

Don’t smoke, drink water throughout day over next few weeks. You should be fine in two weeks. I use these to test myself. I’m 5’9” 160 and smoke an ounce a month and I’m clean in 17-20 days normally.

10 Pack - Easy@Home Marijuana (THC) Single Panel Drug Tests Kit - Individually Wrapped Single Panel THC Screen Urine Drug Test Kit with 50 ng/ml Cutoff Level - EDTH-114 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E5O5EV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WLIqDbATVAWNB

I saw some at a few dollars stores. They actually work.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E5O5EV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_uwnNyb30Y3YZP

I say buy these now. Tey once a day. See how they react the closer to the date OP gets.

I would think you could get clean in 30 days, maybe in 3 weeks. Water will help flush your system, essentially by making you pee a lot. I bought this pack of strips,

Easy@Home Marijuana (thc) Single Panel Drug Tests Kit - Individually Wrapped Single Panel THC Screen Urine Drug Test Kit - 10 Tests https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E5O5EV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_siIZBbBBP45FS

I believe those are legit enough. Depending on the urinalysis they order, it could measure a lower threshold, but I doubt you would get anything other than the standard urinalysis, so those should be good enough to test.

I just got a new job offer that will likely require me to take a drug test, so I decided to quit smoking. I passed a home urine test after only 6 days, even though I am heavy user. I'm pretty thin (6'2", 165 lbs), but I dab multiple times a day every day and don't exercise at all, so I don't understand how this is possible. I've always heard it usually takes 21-30 days to clear for everyday smokers, so I'm happy, yet confused. I'm fairly certain the test works correctly since I failed the same test 2 days after quitting. Anyone have similar stories? I will re-test tomorrow, but wanted to see what y'all think of this.

Home Test Used:
https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Marijuana-Single-Panel-Tests/dp/B00E5O5EV2/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_sims?ie=UTF8

That 30 day thing doesn't apply to everyone. I can get it to clear my system in a week. I bought some home test kits to check. Lots of variables. Generally, if you want to flush your system, lots of exercise and water will clean it out pretty well. Usage also plays a role. If you are an every day user or all day every day thing and you are overweight, it can take awhile.

I got this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00E5O5EV2?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

Thats great! we are using some modified grabbers, here they are on amazon, A few have broken, but they are decent for the price ~$5/ea if you get them from Costco.

You could use a grabber for stuff that's light and isn't likely to break / hurt you if you drop it such as cereal boxes, or multipacks of crisps.

Definitely look into them! This is the one I got, but there are a lot of great options out there!

The fun (and awful) part of birth control is that it gives you symptoms that are near identical to that of ovulation or pregnancy, because that's how birth control works. It tricks your body into thinking it's already pregnant.

The mini-pill is the only pill that will allow you to ovulate while taking it. This happens when you miss a pill since the mini pill is basically the smallest possible dose of hormone to keep your ovaries in check. Miss it and it thinks it's party time. The combination pill is a much higher dose (generally) and will supress your ovulation even if you miss one pill, usually.

If you were on the mini pill, the information you got would be correct. But your body thinks its pregnant, and so it's not going to ovulate, because that's just a silly thing to do.

If you're worried, you can buy OPK's (Ovulation Prediction Kits) on Amazon (Bonus Amazon Smile link!) for about 20-ish bucks. If you take an OPK twice a day, every day, you'll see that you're not ovulating.

___
Usually

I love Wondfos. Bonus for this set because it come with HPTs! (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RY8UBNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_S4.OzbFPXQXV1)

These are the exact ones I ordered and they have been mostly fine. This past weekend I had one that was realllly slow to soak up and thus didn't have much color so I did a second one. The one after that had super faint lines, even the test line, so I did a second one then too.

I have this one, and I actually like it a lot.
¯\(ツ)/¯

1byone Bluetooth Body Fat Scale with IOS and Android App Smart Wireless Digital Bathroom Scale for Body weight, Body Fat, Water, Muscle Mass, BMI, BMR, Bone Mass and Visceral Fat, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FHELB56?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I bought mine on amazon. I’ll upload the page from amazon and you can see if you can get it in the UK. It’s nice because it’s Bluetooth and all the stats go right into the phone. I only paid around 25 dollars US too. Bluetooth scale

I have one of these: https://www.amazon.com/1byone-Bluetooth-Wireless-Bathroom-Visceral/dp/B01FHELB56

And it will tell you if you are gaining fat, muscle or retaining water, and allow you to track a graph over time. Very handy to see if you are gaining muscle, or just eating more because of increased appetite due to exercise.

Also, any kind of bent leg posture like African dance or Lindy Hop will shorten the hamstrings and cause lower back pain. It's just something you need to keep counteracting with stretching.

I have this one and I have been happy with it. It may not be as nice as you want, but it was a good starter scale at $30 for me. The app is old looking, but it keeps a history.

https://www.amazon.com/1byone-Bluetooth-Wireless-Bathroom-Visceral/dp/B01FHELB56/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1521068836&sr=8-3&keywords=1byone+scale

🎀spoil me, and I'll spoil you too!🎀

8 kik for later sessions in exchange for this scale

1 kik for later session includes 15 photos and 5 videos

Will accept amazon gc, or can purchase straight from my wish list

I recently got this one. It does the job and costs much less than the comparable ones I found at Target (even the one I bought a few years ago--fuck that thing).

You can get a food scale and a real scale online fairly cheap, so hopefully you won't have to save up too long! Amazon has them for as low as $8 with good reviews as well as actual scales for around $18. If you buy a 'slightly' more expensive scale, that would push the order to $25, which would qualify it for free shipping.

I hope this helps (and might help with saving)! A food scale is definitely the most important thing, but having an accurate scale can be really good for morale as well. I definitely think this journey would be much harder if I couldn't weigh myself at least once a week.

They sell those posture corrector braces that force you to maintain a correct posture. It’s annoying, but works as long as you consistently wear it.

Posture Brace

Posture Corrector For Men And Women - USA Designed Adjustable Upper Back Brace For Clavicle Support and Providing Pain Relief From Neck, Back and Shoulder (Universal) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DKHTKP3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ChQLDb4QWJ4MC

https://www.amazon.com/hz/reviews-render/mobile-media-feed/B07DKHTKP3/ref=cm_cr_dp_mb_crsl_img_3?ie=UTF8&physicalId=71P4igKLHoL&imageExtension=jpg&reviewId=R27N3UZDW7ACBG

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DKHTKP3/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_LONWCbZ8XME2X

This is the brace in question. It says it's unisex, but the way it adjusts makes it a lot harder for smaller women (it can't really get small enough for my wife, she's 5'5 and about 110). As far as how often, before I started IF and exercising, I wore it daily for about 6 hours over the course of 2 weeks, specifically when I was at work and sitting down, or when at home sitting down. My standing posture is pretty good naturally, but my sitting posture is really slumped, and this helped correct it.

​

After I started exercising daily (50 pushups in the morning, then 60 situps at night, 60 reps of freeweight bench or military presses, and every once in a while bicep curls or shoulder lifts), I found I didn't really need the brace anymore when sitting, I could just tell when I was slumping and corrected it. Still, I'm going to keep it around, its a really comfortable brace and it's easy to throw on and off at will.

https://www.amazon.com/Posture-Corrector-Men-Women-Truweo/dp/B07DKHTKP3/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3CX0ALXD41YR9&keywords=posture+corrector+for+women&qid=1565359156&s=gateway&sprefix=posture+%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-3

​

I found working out at all really helped. I also find myself hunching a bit when I am holding my baby and standing so I work on not doing that.

Been using this one for months and love it https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MFFBT8Y/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It saves your temps, is easy to use and is actually back lit which is a feature a ton are using.

Also LPT take your temp vaginally, it's just as accurate (actually more so since you can't accidentally mouth breath around it) and less of a pain in the ass then having to hold a thermometer in mouth

Thank you :)
My whole life my periods were usually regular but then i would have the odd one that seemed extremely late. It never really worried me though.
It feels like as soon as we really started trying my periods got weird and my cycles seemed dry. We decided to start temping in Feb as well because up until then we hadn't had any luck, which I know we haven't really being trying that long but still, it got me worried so I decided to start temping to get a better picture of what was going on with my body. For the longest time I felt like my temp's were just out of wack completely, only lately have they followed any sort of pattern. Maybe it was my body trying to ovulate then failing, and trying again and so on. I'm really not sure.
Are you temping the same time every day and is your thermometer a BBT? I use this one and I love it because it has an alarm so I check my temp at exactly the same time everyday. https://www.amazon.com/iSnow-Med-Thermometer-Temperature-Accuracy-Ovulation/dp/B01MFFBT8Y?th=1

Do you have any trouble sleeping? I'm a notorious bad sleeper, I have a lot of anxiety at bedtime for some reason. Since late March I have tried really hard not to worry at night and actually get a good nights rest, maybe that helped?

TTC can be really frustrating, my whole life I was expecting it to happen within the first few try's. Now I feel like every woman around me is on baby #1 or #2 :|

I wish you all the best too!

I had one that was giving me a different result every time I stepped on the scale. I bought this one on a whim after getting tired of reading contradicting Amazon reviews and it's surpassed my wildest expectations.

I had one of those. I used to average my various weights that it gave from stepping on and back off.


I highly recommend this scale from amazon. Only $16.80, and free one day shipping from prime. It is super precise (though I find it tells me I'm about 1.5lbs heavier than the doctor's scale, but consistently).

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HI1W1V4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Well, congrats on your first build, yes, it does get better with practice! As for your vision, you might try some wearable magnifiers, I've seen PBusardo using them, something like these, http://www.amazon.com/Donegan-Optical-OptiVISOR-Headband-Magnifier/dp/B0068OSIIS.

??

Pregnancy strips are $0.22 apiece retail at amazon. No insurance. Link.

https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Digital-Bathroom-Measure-Tempered/dp/B01HI1W1V4/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1536892527&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=scale&psc=1

It costs $18 (not shilling) to put this by your bed, and weight yourself when you wake up and go to bed.

Write the data in a book, input once a week. That's 20 seconds extra out of your day. That's over complicating it? That's nothing.

EDIT: I'm glad your method works for you. But having more incremental data is substantially more beneficial, and I strongly thing that saying im overcomplicating it is kinda crap. The reason for the extra data is because this subreddit is basically a place the [majority] of the userbase come s to complain about how much they eat and they don't gain weight.