"Post Operative Orders"

Following a procedure, isn't it nice when we receive very detailed printed instructions upon discharge.  When that happens, I am always IMPRESSED!  Following a visit to the hospital with family this week: 


Discharge orders:
Pre-operative blood tests were performed which showed normal liver & kidney function. 
Post-operatively, these results have remained within normal limits. 
During procedure, heart rate and breathing was continuously monitored and there were no problems.
A small incision was made in the abdominal area. 
Surgical glue was used to close the incision. 
There may be some discomfort once the sedation begins to wear off. 
Pain medication has been given to the caregiver with instructions. 
Plenty of rest & quiet is needed. 
Activity should be restricted for 3 days.

Make sure plenty of liquids are ingested.  

Do not be alarmed if there is little or no appetite, this will return. 
Keep the cone around the head to prevent excessive licking of incision. 


Please call our office should the incision open, you notice fever, chills,  see signs of bleeding, swelling or foul odor. 


Thank you for choosing our hospital and allowing our physician & staff to SPAY your pet today! 
  
I would title this the "POOCH" page:   "Post Operative Orders Canine Hospital" 


We could all learn from our Veterinarians, couldn't we?  Remember that printed instructions assist in reducing phone calls to YOUR practice, unnecessary calls to the physician and or trips to the ER.  Plus, it gives the patient "Bragging Rights" when they proudly read all about it to their family and  friends!  


PS ~ "Skittles" my "grand-dog" is doing very well post-operatively, thank you!  And my grandkids are calling the "cone" on her head her "satelite dish" ~ they say she's picking up some great shows! 


Enjoy your weekend!  
I'm "Gladys Friday" aren't you? 


Alaska was WONDERFUL!  What a terrific conference it was, some of the nicest people I have ever met.  It was such an honor to be a part of the AKMGMA Conference.    Make sure to add Alaska to your bucket list.  On the Alaska Railway, we saw beluga whale, sheep, moose, bald eagle, beaver dams, dale sheep, glaciers, Mt. McKinley ~ the highest peak in North America all while riding along side the ocean.  ~ ~  "And I said to myself....what a wonderful world" ~ ~    


denisepricethomas@gmail.com
704-747-8699

"Ready To Check Out?"

True Story:

Denise's sister has a broken wrist which post surgery is referred to as the "Wonder Woman Wrist"(steel plate and screws). Recently, she ventured out to shop alone, planning her trip to the drug store to pick up a few necessities. Checking her list, marking off the items gathered with the "good arm" ~ along with her wallet and car keys, she began making her way toward the front of the store feeling a bit overwhelmed. She began to wonder ~ ~ "WHY did I even TRY to do this alone!" She was on the verge of tears when she heard the lady from behind the counter say, "MAM, are you about ready to check out?" Sister said......"Well, I was really hoping to have a few more years left!"

Funny how things sound on "The Other Side of Healthcare" Hope you have a great weekend!

Denise & "Gladys" ~ heading to Alaska......see ya soon!

Denise Price Thomas

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

www.denisepricethomas.com

704-747-8699

NPO with a twist ~ of lemon!

Another personal & true story as experienced by Denise & brought to you by "Gladys Friday":

NPO takes on a different meaning when......

You arrive for a procedure without YOUR morning coffee and the first person to "get you registered" is drinking the finest cup of coffee your nose has ever experienced.

You determine very quickly during registration that she really NEEDS the caffeine, she has had a bad night / bad day / bad year(s).....as it is showing on her face and through her actions.

You are privileged to her taking the time to answer a personal phone call while she is trying to get her printer to work by hitting it multiple times. The registrar tells her friend on the other line, "I wish I COULD go on break now, but I still have a PATIENT!" (Surprise! That patient has EARS!)

Denise is aware that we can always find something good in someone if we search for it so "Gladys" will report to you that the registrar was a multi-tasker; answering the phone while drinking her coffee & hitting (I mean repairing) her printer.....all while.....ummm assisting a patient??? Yeah, that too.

You are excited when the printing is finally completed and she calls for transport for you to be taken to your room.

You have finally escaped the aroma of that gourmet coffee and then you hear the following employee conversation in the hallway:

"What's the lunch special?"

"I think it's dumplings"

"Oh great! I missed dumplings last week, I'll pick up the order if ya'll will call it in."

Do you realize what thoughts pop into a person's mind when they have had no coffee? But ahhh ~ that IV was soooo yummy! Denise now wants to design "scratch & sniff" hospital gowns with a smell of gourmet coffee!

Innocent conversations ~ innocent words ~ yet sometimes creating SOUR impressions thus ~ "NPO with a twist of LEMON" May we be reminded to tune in to those around us ~ putting the patient & their needs first and foremost each & every time.....filling THEIR cup ~

Have a terrific weekend my friends ~

Recent words of thanks:

Dermatology Group of the Carolinas is now an even better place because of “Denise”. She was so enthusiastic with her presentation. Also, she was able to engage with each and every one of our staff members. The fashion show was also very beneficial to let each of us know how our individual personalities can and do effect the workplace. Situations were also shared with our staff members to make them think about how they are interacting and are providing customer service to patients, staff members, and our providers. Dermatology Group of the Carolinas looks forward to working with Denise on future presentations and how to improve our practice.

Amy Walters

Operations Manager

Dermatology Group of the Carolinas

I just wanted to say "Thank you" for such an enjoyable time. It was truly delightful but it was also very meaningful. Thank you for sharing with us those important pieces of your life and for helping us see how important what we do can be for others so that we can strive to improve ourselves and the services we provide. May God Bless you and your family always and may you continue to lift people's hearts and lives with your wonderful humor. I am certain that your dad is extremely proud of you and continues to watch over you from his new address. My dad has been living there for some time now, and I am sure he was glad to welcome a neighbor such as your dad. Best wishes, Maria Gabriela Solorzano Pediatric Dental Clinic at Summit

Keep in touch ~

Denise Price Thomas

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

704-747-8699

2011 Clients:

Allergy Partners of the Piedmont "Motivational Makeover for the Medical Practice"

Dermatology Group of The Carolinas

Gaston Family Health Services

Community Health Foundation

Baptist Hospital Leadership Conference, Pensacola Florida

Novant Healthcare Managers ~ "The Way We Were" (Going through the CHANGE in healthcare)

NC Association for Healthcare Quality

SC Oncology Management Society

Georgia Society of Ambulatory Surgery Center & SC Ambulatory Surgery Center (GSASC & SCASCA)

Gaston Memorial Hospital

Gaston Memorial Hospital Nurses Conference

Alaska Medical Group Managers Association Conference (AKMGMA)

NC Healthcare Financial Management Association (NC HFMA)

Oncology Nursing Conference, Little Switzerland

"Undercover Patient Assessments" (shhh, that's a secret)

Relay for Life, Belmont

Gaston County Senior Games

American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM)

Lincoln County Association of Educational Office Professionals (LCAEOP)

Greater Clover Females In Business

Bethel Presbyterian Women's Conference

Bowling Green Presbyterian Church Women's Conference

Tarheel Thunderbird Club

Lions Club

Gaston County Association of Educational Office Professionals (GCAEOP)

First Freewill Young at Heart

First Freewill Women's Retreat

First Presbyterian Women's Conference, Stanley

Firestone Wesleyan Women's Event

Kings Mountain Women's Event

Truth & Tea Women's Conference, Pleasant Ridge

Covenant Baptist Church

Park Street United Methodist Church

First United Methodist Church Women's Conference

Women's Expo

First United Methodist Church Friendship Club

Cramerton Seniors

Terrace Ridge Assisted Living

Courtland Terrace

and more ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"The Ailing Nurse"

A friend of mine was recently scheduled for surgery. Arriving in the pre-op area on the morning of his surgery, the nurse began to ask him the routine questions:

Nurse: "Have you ever had problems with high blood pressure?"

Patient: "No mam, no problem at all, I've been very fortunate."

Nurse: "Well yes, you are so lucky, I have had problems with mine! In fact, I'm on blood pressure medication now and it has terrible side affects, dry mouth, I can't sleep, just be glad you don't have any of those problems. OK, have you had any prior surgeries?"

Patient: "No mam, I've been pretty healthy."

Nurse: "Wow, you sure have been. I've had a hysterectomy myself, had my gallbladder removed and then had to go back with appendicitis a couple years later! I've had lots of minor surgeries too, like this mole right here, I've had those removed but fortunately, they were all benign."

(thank GOODNESS, he thought!)

Nurse: "Let's see here, now let's go on to review your FAMILY history"

Patient: "Excuse me mam, my surgery is in one hour and if YOUR family has medical problems like you, I'll miss MY SURGERY!"

He thought seriously about getting off of the stretcher & perhaps exchanging places with the nurse! It was obvious that he felt much better than she did!

There's a BIG DIFFERENCE in being personable vs. getting personal ~ agree?

Denise is looking forward to speaking for the Caromont Nursing Conference this week along with being the Keynote Speaker for The Georgia Society of Ambulatory Surgery Centers & South Carolina Ambulatory Surgery Center Association.

On Friday she received a standing ovation from Gaston Family Health Services as she addressed customer service issues ~ what a terrific group it was & a great time they had. Thank you all!

"Caught with her top down!"

What a beautiful morning it was. Over the hills, by the lake, enjoying the world with my top down. Things seem a lot different that way, you should try it. Very laid back and relaxed. The sunshine feels so warm on your skin, people smile at you so much more and they blow the horn A LOT! It's always a friendly horn though, not the mad one....you know the difference. People even let you enter into oncoming traffic, you NEVER have to wait! They are so gracious. It's amazing how different the world responds to you with your top down.

They even smile at you when you are CAUGHT IN THE RAIN with your top down! The rain ALSO feels great on your skin ~ no matter how old that skin may be. It will slow you down and make you smile. I was actually "singing in the rain"

~ ~ ~ "And I say to myself ~ what a wonderful world" ~ ~ ~

So, I decided I will take my Baby Bird out of her nest as often as I can. Her name is "Sunny Bird" and she's the same age as ME! She's a 1955 Thunderbird ~ Canary Yellow. Our birthday is Sunday ~ we will be out and about with our top down! Holden Beach ~ here we come!

"Gladys" entertained the Tarheel Thunderbird Club last Sunday ~ what a TREAT it was! She was so honored to be surrounded by a nest of beautiful BIRDS! Of course, hers was the prissiest!

Have you seen "Ms. Ida Marder?

Hey Friday Friends ~

I'm still alive! Many of you have checked in on "Ms Gladys" ~ she has been missing in ACTION but all is well ~ thanks for checking in.

Which reminds me.....we ALL KNOW "Ms Ida Marder" (as in martyr) We have each worked with her. She's the one that says, "Nothing around here ever gets done unless I do it MYSELF" and "I'm the ONLY one that will answer the phone, the first one here in the morning, the last one to leave, I work through my lunch, no one else does ANYTHING!" and "I SHOULD be the only one that gets paid around here, no one else does anything!" and then of course, "I even do the managers work!"

OK, we get it! "Ida" finally resigned from her position and low and behold, the lights came on the next day! The phones were answered, the doors were locked at the end of the day and in fact, the staff was much happier! Isn't it amazing that "Ms Ida Marder" is sometimes the "ONLY ONE that makes everyone ELSE miserable?" Oh and by the way ~ the manager carried on ~ didn't miss one beat!

It is my belief that we CAN BE happy while working ~ if "Ms Ida Marder" isn't HAPPY at her work, allow her to find happiness elsewhere. As for me ~ I want to be around "Joy Hunter" ~ she's a dear friend of mine. I'm "Gladys Friday" aren't you?

Denise (and "Gladys") are still writing their "Book of Characters" In the meantime, the Fashion Show is gaining popularity.

Enjoy your weekend ~ and again, thanks for missing me!

Denise & "Gladys" have been on the road again ~

Training wheels in heels ~ Comments from the audience are:

"Very informative, educational and heart warming. I have laughed and cried all in one session. Your mission was successful"

"You are a bright and shiney star! You make me smile! Your words of wisdom are heartwarming!"

"Great presentation!"

"You make me feel & think about a lot of things in my life, you are wonderful!"

"Very Motivating!"

"Loved it! Very original - Keep up the good work!"

"Love this lady ~ she ROCKS!"

"You are so much fun & make me want to be a better person both personally & professionally"

Denise has just completed a "Facility Face Lift" for Crossway Pediatric Therapy where she custom designed & added a schoolhouse, a school bus & a train that the children have fallen in love with. Pictures available upon request. More fun on the horizon ~

2011 Clients:

Allergy Partners of the Piedmont "Motivational Makeover for the Medical Practice"

Dermatology Group of The Carolinas

Community Health Foundation

Baptist Hospital Leadership Conference, Pensacola Florida

Novant Healthcare Managers ~ "The Way We Were" (Going through the CHANGE in healthcare)

NC Association for Healthcare Quality

SC Oncology Management Society

Georgia Society of Ambulatory Surgery Center & SC Ambulatory Surgery Center (GSASC & SCASCA)

Gaston Memorial Hospital

Gaston Memorial Hospital Nurses Conference

Alaska Medical Group Managers Association Conference (AKMGMA)

NC Healthcare Financial Management Association (NC HFMA)

Oncology Nursing Conference, Little Switzerland

"Undercover Patient Assessments" (shhh, that's a secret)

Relay for Life, Belmont

Gaston County Senior Games

American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM)

Lincoln County Association of Educational Office Professionals (LCAEOP)

Greater Clover Females In Business

Bethel Presbyterian Women's Conference

Bowling Green Presbyterian Church Women's Conference

Tarheel Thunderbird Club

Lions Club

Gaston County Association of Educational Office Professionals (GCAEOP)

First Freewill Young at Heart

First Presbyterian Women's Conference, Stanley

Firestone Wesleyan Women's Event

Kings Mountain Women's Event

Truth & Tea Women's Conference, Pleasant Ridge

Covenant Baptist Church

Park Street United Methodist Church

First United Methodist Church Women's Conference

Women's Expo

First United Methodist Church Friendship Club

Cramerton Seniors

Terrace Ridge Assisted Living

Courtland Terrace

and more ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"Don't anybody SNEEZE!"

Good morning ~ little "Gladys Friday" today?

I've noticed when I'm out of town, I return to a house full of relatives! This happens every time. I walk through the house and can immediately tell there has been a family reunion here. EVERY ONE of my cremated relatives are gathered around the dining room table, the tv and have even settled down in the bedroom. They will just take over the place before you know it. Some friends came over and I asked them to be very careful...."Don't anybody sneeze" I said, we wouldn't wanna disturb the relatives. Perhaps we should call "Dust Busters!"

Have a wonderful weekend ~ my friends. "Training Wheels in Heels" are on the way to Allergy Partners of the Piedmont today ~ "Motivational Makeover for the Medical Practice" ~ Fashion Show of Characters are on the way!

"Training Wheels in Heels" ~ On-site training delivered to your door. Customer Serve US vs Customer Service ~ Making THE Difference ~ Professional Polish ~ Winning Team ~ Communication ~ and more.

2011 Clients:

Allergy Partners of the Piedmont "Motivational Makeover for the Medical Practice"

Baptist Hospital Leadership Conference, Pensacola Florida

Novant Healthcare Managers

NC Association for Healthcare Quality

SC Oncology Management Society

Georgia Society of Ambulatory Surgery Center & SC Ambulatory Surgery Center (GSASC & SCASCA)

Gaston Memorial Hospital

Alaska Medical Group Managers Association Conference (AKMGMA)

NC Healthcare Financial Management Association (NC HFMA)

Oncology Nursing Conference, Little Switzerland

"Undercover Patient Assessments" (shhh, that's a secret)

Relay for Life, Belmont

Gaston County Senior Games

American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM)

Lincoln County Association of Educational Office Professionals (LCAEOP)

Greater Clover Females In Business

Bethel Presbyterian Women's Conference

Bowling Green Presbyterian Church Women's Conference

Tarheel Thunderbird Club

Lions Club

Gaston County Association of Educational Office Professionals (GCAEOP)

First Freewill Young at Heart

First Presbyterian Women's Conference, Stanley

Firestone Wesleyan Women's Event

Kings Mountain Women's Event

Truth & Tea Women's Conference, Pleasant Ridge

Covenant Baptist Church

Park Street United Methodist Church

First United Methodist Church Women's Conference

Women's Expo

First United Methodist Church Friendship Club

Cramerton Seniors

Terrace Ridge Assisted Living

Courtland Terrace

and more ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"One Happy Meal ~ Two Ringy Dingy ~ Three Strikes You're OUT!"

You all know Denise.....well, SHE is my boss, I guess that's the best way to explain her. She reminded me recently about the time she was interviewing applicants for a position that she had posted for the surgical practice where she was the administrator.

The first young lady appeared, shook her hand and had a seat in the chair across from her desk. Before any words were spoken, the lady said, "Do you mind if I eat my Happy Meal while we talk, I'm on my lunch break" ~ Denise responded, "Certainly, help yourself, by all means enjoy your Happy Meal." "Gladys" wished she had been hired because she always wanted a sandwich shop in the lobby!

The second applicant came in and during the interview....her phone rang and she asked Denise, "Do you mind if I answer this? I am expecting a call" DURING THE INTERVIEW! Of course Denise didn't mind at all. "Gladys" thought she would have made a wonderful person at the switchboard because she actually answered that call on the second ring ~ with a smile!

The third applicant came in with a long list of problems about the practice where she was still employed. She spent the first 15 minutes wanting to criticize everyone there, explaining that she was the only one that deserved a paycheck ~ "I do it all by myself, no one will help me, they won't hire any more help either!" So "Gladys" decided since she did it all by herself, she could probably find her way back to the door all by herself.

Funny how different things seem on "The Other Side Of The Desk" (Book in progress)

Last week ~ "Undercover Patient" (Denise) had a very pleasant experience by someone in a clinical setting. Compassion was all around. She made immediate eye contact, she listened, she wasn't rushed, she comforted the "very nervous patient" (aka me). It's so nice to find these treasures in healthcare.

This week ~ "Fashionable Characters" were on stage and Denise was the emcee for the show. The fashion show revealed personalities that we work with....from whiners to shiners. After all....it's what's on the inside that counts.

Next week ~ Denise & "Gladys" are excited to be going to Allergy Partners of the Piedmont. Invited for the third year in a row ~ Denise will lead in a "Motivational Makeover for the Medical Practice" for their staff appreciation day and training. What a terrific group they are. Can't wait to see you all! Of course they've requested "Gladys" to provide the humor again to bring up the rear! "Healthcare ~ The Funny Side Up!"

As always, thank you for your continued encouragement. It's nice to know that so many of you look forward to The Friday Funny ~

Denise Price Thomas

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

704-747-8699

"Alma Victim" & Friends ~ Living "Down" To Standards?

Last week "Gladys" ran into "Alma Victim" and was quickly reminded that some people prefer to be a victim. They CHOOSE to carry baggage around with them for years, sometimes for a lifetime. They are never responsible for their own actions ~ there's always someone else to blame.

Speaking of accepting responsibility...."LOW & BEHOLD" (no pun intended) here comes yet another politician in the news whom I'll refer to as "Oscar" ~ "Oh I wish I were an Oscar Meyer ~~~" comes to mind but I bet this one WILL NOT WIN AN OSCAR! Perhaps we need to assign "Accountability 101" classes vs "Accounting 101" for everyone!

Thinking of both these "characters" (and many more) ~ I remember when we purchase a house....someone comes out to detect the septic system and they mark it. They find exactly where the entire septic tank and lines are and just how FULL IT IS ~ BEFORE you purchase the house. Nice! Wouldn't it be GREAT if we had a pole (that's what they use) so that BEFORE we HIRE someone, before we VOTE for someone, before we DATE or MARRY someone.....the ENTIRE SEPTIC SYSTEM was detected?!?!?! And LOW & BEHOLD ~ MARK IT!

As for me....I have made my choice ~ I am not at all like "Alma Victim" ~ I am "Gladys Friday" and I shall not WHINE!

In Joy ~

"Ms Gladys"

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

704-747-8699

PS ~ Thank you for the kind words last week regarding my friend. She will certainly be missed.

"The Ballgame"

I'd love to share a story about my dear friend, Bonnie. We have been friends (more like sisters) for 25+ years, she has a wonderful daughter and a terrific son. Her son is Forrest. One day, Bonnie was in the stands during his baseball game when he slammed that ball. She jumped up from the stands and yelled, "RUN FORREST, RUN!" and the lady behind her scolded her severely by saying "That is SO MEAN! THAT is SOMEONE'S CHILD OUT THERE!" Bonnie turned to her and said....."he's MY SON and his NAME IS FORREST!"

Today, I am unable to find "Ms Gladys" because my dear friend Bonnie experienced a cerebral aneurysm this week and her address has been changed to Heaven. Bonnie was the most wonderful and caring RN, RVT that I have ever known. I would consult with her about a patient that needed to be seen and I have seen her put her purse back down, keys on her desk and take care of that patient before leaving on a Friday afternoon at 5:00 for her upcoming week of vacation. AND, she did it with a SMILE! THAT, my friends, is a special person filled with compassion for others.

I will use this time to reflect on how I may be a better person, making a difference in the lives of others just as Bonnie has always made in mine. Bonnie loved "Ms Gladys" ~ she loved humor and found it also to be healing. She loved kayaking, in fact, her kayak is on my pier ready for her next trip. She loved her "pink scooter" that she purchased when gas was so high 2 years ago.....and then she RAN OUT OF GAS WHILE DRIVING IT! She loved snow skiing, she loved LIFE and LIVING IT! She had her faith, her family, her friends and her fun! That girl loved to have fun. She said to me, "I want to live it up 'til the lights go out"

"Bonnie, this one's for you! Your bucket was filled and YOUR LIGHT IS ON" Always ~

Denise Price Thomas

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

704-747-8699

"Senior Prom"

"Bernice Beauchamp" (aka me) is "Gladys Friday's" (aka me) older sister. She was invited to be an "Undercover Patient" this week for a nursing home. She arrived via wheelchair and while patiently awaiting her admission forms she was approached by a gentleman / resident and was invited to go on a DATE! The conversation went like this:

"Would you like to go with me to the prom tonight?" (Mr. Resident)

"Sure, that would be nice, I didn't get to go to my high school prom" (Bernice)

"I'll pick you up at 7" (Mr. Resident)

At 7 pm on the dot, sure enough ~ there he was...in his wheelchair...at the door of my new room. He was wearing a nice shirt ~ even sporting a tie and had a GIANT SMILE on his face...and I do mean a GIANT SMILE! Rolling in our wheelchairs side by side down the hallway, we entered the room filled with music, a disco ball and lots of curious eyes. Glenn Miller's song began to play, "In The Mood" when he leaned over his wheelchair and asked me for a kiss. I leaned over and whispered to him, "Only if you'll go back to your room and get your TEETH!"

While he was wheeling very quickly down the hallway to his room....."Bernice" put the pedal to the metal and OUT THE DOOR she went!!! Leaving AMA!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Will I EVER get to go to a PROM? ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I'm not giving up!

Following the "Undercover Patient" Assessment ~ Denise (aka me) returned to report her findings and hold a professional in-service education session for the staff. Comments following Denise's class:

"Thank you for making me laugh & cry. You have an amazing gift."

"You were awesome! Thank you for making me look inside myself."

"Awesomely talented and full of heart"

"One in a million!"

"What a joy you are! Thanks for being "real" and sharing your Dad's story. We can book you a revival ~ LOL"

"You performed fantastically! You are such a unique & wonderful woman!"

"I loved you Denise! This was great and I can't wait to see you again!"

"This was the best way to teach! THANK YOU for sharing your heart!"

"You helped me see how I CAN make a difference"

"Thank you for reminding me of my choices"

"Gladys" also entertained this week for The Cramerton Seniors & had a great time! Comments that followed were:

"Gladys, what a wonderful "thing" you do! I loved it! It was fabulous!"

"I admire you very much for using your gifts and talents in such a wonderful way"

"It couldn't have been better"

"This was just what I needed!"

"You are therapy!!"

Thank you again for your comments:

Denise Price Thomas

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

704-747-8699

"Give Me Just A Little More Time"

You know, my manager "Denise" makes up names to get her point across....well, today I have one for HER!

"THEY SAY" that the world will end tomorrow....well, I never was that good at math but.....The Book that I read from tells me that no one knows when that day will be.

So....."Justin Case" ~ I am gonna go ahead and take my arthritis medicine and "Justin Case" I will be taking my fiber as well and "Justin Case" I will have that drink of wine to help me with my memory (if I can remember to drink it) ~ "Justin Case!"

Now, you MEN out there....the most requested prescription by YOU (yeah, you know the one, it's your favorite).....well, go ahead and take it if you want.....but "Justin Case" that "4 hour rule" comes into play.....I'm not sure who will be here for you to call......I'm just sayin' You may wanna think that one through...."Justin Case"

As for tonight......I, along with "Justin Case" will be LIVE ~ singing in the crowd with CHAIRMEN OF THE BOARD ~ to the tune of "GIVE ME JUST A LITTLE MORE TIME" Now, how appropriate is THEIR TIMING! Seriously, we will all be there....tonight!

See ya there ~ FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE in Downtown BELMONT, NC (also home to yours truly ~ "Gladys Friday" & Denise) ~ The kick off of many great Fridays to come! Summertime's on it's way!

Oh...and.....I do hope you'll remember me with a smile "JUSTIN CASE" ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Learning to "Rest A Spell" for our HEALTH

Remember my "attempt" to learn Tai Chi? Well, I'm determined to learn (to relax). So, during the class, our instructor said to pretend that we are protecting "sparrow eggs" in our hands. I looked down at my poor clinched fists (looking as if I were about to punch someone out) and was a bit embarrassed that I was CRUSHING the make believe eggs. With the peaceful surrounding of the quiet nature and learning more relaxation techniques, again she reminded us of those make believe "sparrow eggs" that were now under our arms. WELL, I could almost FEEL THE YOKE running down my arms. It's safe to say that bird eggs are NOT safe around me....not yet anyway. Learning to relax is a challenge....but I promise to keep trying. FYI: I must be held accountable to this promise.

So, I decided to schedule a day at the spa ~ "The Sanctuary". The call went like this: I'd like to schedule for The Sanctuary next week please. Do you already KNOW which date you would be needing it? Yes mam, I would like to arrive on Tuesday if that's available. OH...OK, what did you have in mind? Well, I'd like a nice quiet room, something with an outdoor surrounding, lots of light and very quiet music. UH...OK, do you know how many people will be attending? Oh no, it's just for me, I'll be coming alone. I want the room all by myself and I'd like to be there a couple days before having to return to my busy life. There was a long silence......and then the lady said, "Are you sure you have called the right number? This is The Sanctuary Funeral Home

You see why "RELAXING" is so much trouble for me? I'm telling ya, humor just follows me everywhere. Just ask the attendees at the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM) Conference in Asheville. Denise was the Keynote Speaker and then "Gladys" entertained them....and WHAT AN EVENING IT WAS! It was President John Cook's birthday....so "Gladys" sang "Happy Birthday Mr. President" to him personally (in front of everyone else) Terrific network of leaders! (Happy Birthday song by Gladys Friday on youtube - feel FREE to forward to your friends for their birthday ~ with some funny love from "Gladys")

Thanks so much for sending those emails to me. It's GREAT to have your positive feedback. Keep 'em coming....they help me relax!

"Gladys" is on her way to entertain for SURVIVORS @ Relay for Life ~ Stowe Park ~ Belmont, NC. See ya there.

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

704-747-8699

"I Fall To Pieces" ~ Colonoscopy Blues by Gladys Friday

"Gladys Friday" GRINS & BARES IT ~ Her colonoscopy was performed by her boss. Hope you enjoy "The Morning After" song ~

What a great week it was speaking for the:

Women's Conference for First Presbyterian Church, Stanley, NC ~ terrific group of ladies of all ages! (from 5 to 95)

Kings Mountain Women's Conference @ Kings Mtn. Baptist. Wonderful women ~ friends & fans!

Next week speaking for:

American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM) in Asheville, NC

Relay for Life ~ Belmont, NC


Have a wonderful weekend!

"Little Light Of Mine"

"Hoppy Easter"

The Easter Bunny reminds me of years ago when my little girls were growing up. I started my own business to help buy their little Easter dresses (along with putting food on our table). I WAS the Easter Bunny ~ I would deliver baskets to children of all ages and hide eggs for Easter Egg Hunts. One very WARM (melting hot) day, all of the little ones wanted to play "pin the tail on the bunny" ~ we had fun....except when one of the parents asked "The Bunny" if she was feeling alright......referring to the back side of her VERY WHITE FURRY-FLUFFY bunny suit that had tiny fingerprints all over the tail and around the tail from all the melted CHOCOLATE. I looked like one sick bunny!!!

This year....at "Gladys" age.....I think she can just hide her eggs from herself....she seems to be forgetting everything else, I'm sure she will forget where she's hidden them! And she thinks she will just use her hair dye to dye the eggs....they'll be "blue" to match her hair.

As for Easter ~ I will always remember the "REAL" meaning of Easter and the miracles that happen every day because of The Third Day.

Enjoy your miracles with a smile ~

Something New, Something Borrowed & Something Blue

Well, "they" told me that my metabolism would slow down at my age, I just didn't expect it to STOP! After noticing some unwanted changes, I signed up for "SOMETHING NEW" ~ a Tai Chi class. The "SOMETHING BORROWED" was exercise clothing from a friend. I arrived early to class hoping to "warm up" before anyone else arrived. After bending, stretching, pulling, tugging and jumping jumping jumping....I FINALLY got into those leotards! At that point, I was just too exhausted to try any of the exercises.....perhaps it will get easier. Oh and the "SOMETHING BLUE".....well, you should SEE my LEGS & ARMS from all of the tugging on those leotards!

As CWJC Board Members & Friends ~ "Gladys Friday and The Peeps" ~ (friends Jody, Wavey & Mona) ~ will be performing karaoke tomorrow morning: "Stand By Me" to raise money for Christian Women's Job Corps during The Community Foundation Event ~ Wish us luck!

Speaking engagements coming right up for Denise & "Gladys":

NC Association for Healthcare Quality (NCAHQ) Conference in Chapel Hill, NC

The Kings Mountain Women's Conference

Mother-Daughter Event for First Presbyterian Church, Stanley, NC

American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM) Carolina Chapter

Relay for Life ~ Belmont, NC

MD Solutions, Inc ~ Southeast User Group Spring Conference, GE Centricity Group Management, Panama City Beach, Florida

Cramerton Seniors

Georgia Society of Ambulatory Surgery Centers Conference (GSASC)

Alaska Medical Group Management Association Conference (AK/MGMA)

and more ~ ~

Thanks for your feedback ~ "we" love hearing from our friends & fans!!

denisepricethomas@gmail.com

"Putting 2 & 2 Together"

I saw an ad in the newspaper recently that read: "Wedding ring and wedding dress for sale, slightly used."

The ad just below that one read: "Well seasoned golf clubs and fishing poles for sale, cheap!"

The following ad read: "Need to purchase cemetery lot asap!"

....and my imagination immediately started ~ ~ ~ I bet there was someone that was just "dying" to get in it....and I bet he won't be needing his golf clubs & fishing poles anymore.

Sometimes you can put two and two together to make a great story ~ enjoy your weekend!

What a great week ~ in spite of losing power for several days due to a storm. We certainly APPRECIATE all of the Duke Energy employees and everyone that worked around the clock to make repairs. THANK YOU!

Denise was the invited guest speaker for two terrific events this week:

First United Methodist Women ~

Title: "Bloom & Grow In Joy & ENJOY"

Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce ~ First Meeting of Females In Business ("FIB") Luncheon ~ Sponsored by Creative Solutions

Title: "Contagious Characters in Customer Service" ~ FASHION SHOW (what's on the inside)

"Gladys" is warming up for karaoke ~ "Run For The Money"

Next out of town engagement: NC Association for Healthcare Quality Conference

Fan Mail:

"Thank you, "Gladys" & Denise for a job well done" Mr. Bill Remmes, SC Oncology Management Association, President

"Everybody is still talking about the women's event. Thank you both (Denise & "Gladys") for making the day so special. Many thanks for sharing your talents with us!"

Betty Love, Bowling Green Presbyterian Church

Everyone in attendance thoroughly enjoyed meeting “Gladys Friday” and I can honestly say that your performance left many of us in “stitches” because we laughed so hard. I heard a lot of great compliments about our choice in inviting you to participate in our “Family Night,” and many of my fellow Lions said that you were the best entertainer that we have had at a convention; and I must agree. Your delivery was so engaging, witty and informative. Using her sense of humor, Gladys Friday made hearing about health care so much more personable and pleasurable.

Michael H. Schwartz

Vice District Governor, District 31-E

International Association of Lions Clubs

Thank you all for sharing your kind words!

"PINK SUNDAY" THIS WEEK ~ REMEMBER TO "THINK PINK & WEAR PINK" TO CHURCH & WEAR IT ALL DAY LONG ~ FOR BREAST HEALTH AWARENESS