DiaWHATtes?

So most of you already know that I have Type 1 Diabetes. I've had it for 13 and a half years (since I was 6 years old) and I've been an insulin pump user for 2 and a half years and my pumps name is Patrick Jr. (my first pump died after a year of having it and his name was Patrick). Anyway, the reason I bring all this up is because a recent news story caught my interest. It was about a model who wore her insulin pump on stage. And this made me happy. And because of that fact, I want to write about it.

The story is about 20 year old Idaho Beauty Queen, Sierra Sandison. She attracted even more attention because she chose to wear her insulin pump whilst modelling in her bikini on stage. Now, this has made me sooo happy, you don't even understand.

First of all, I've never been embarrassed of my pump. It took me 8 miserable years of injecting 4-8 times a day to finally get mine, so I'm proud to wear it. It's sort of a reminder to me of my long fought battle that I won in the end. But I do understand why some people don't want it on show. Some look at it as a constant reminder of their condition and some just don't want people to know about their diabetes. Which is fine. I've just never had that problem. But then again, I'm a person who's life is pretty much an open book and I understand not everyone is like that.

Anyway, Sierra was diagnosed when she was 18, so she's a diabetes newbie, if you like. But she decided that she would wear her pump. Because, why hide it? If you want to read the story, it can be found here. << See? I made it easy for you ;)

To be honest though, my take on the whole situation is this: what is the point in hiding the pump? You'll end up stressing yourself out by trying to hide it all the time. Beach trips will be a nightmare and you're essentially being ashamed of something that you've no reason to be ashamed of.

I understand how difficult life with Type 1 Diabetes can be though. I've had a lot of stick in the past because people think they know all about it. I used to be in hospital a lot before I got my insulin pump because I kept getting ketones and going into DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) which is basically the #1 killer in Type 1 Diabetics. Ketones is basically acid in your blood that starts to eat away at your body fat. Or something like that. But I had people making the old snide comments like:

"Oooh well she does eat a lot of sweet stuff"

"Oh well she's never refused a biscuit when I've offered one to her"

"Ohhh well if she watched what she ate, maybe she wouldn't be in hospital so much"

"Oh well obviously it's because she eats absolute rubbish. I mean I saw her scoff a KFC the other day and that's why she keeps ending up in hospital"

Yeah, trust me, I've had it all. I've also had the common "helpful/curious suggestions/questions":

"Ooooh should you be eating that?"

"Well I don't have anything sugar free, will you be ok with this? It's got lots of sugar in it"

"Right, well, I would give you the box of chocolates but on second thought, I don't want you binging and ending up in hospital so here, have this small pack instead"

See? All this has got one thing in common. They all say "oh" a lot. Hehe just kidding. No but seriously, it's obvious: they're all diet related. See, because type 2 diabetes is so prevalent nowadays, people think that that's it. Type 1 and Type 2 are the same. But they're not. In fact, the only thing they have in common is that they're to do with insulin production. In fact they're so different that I strongly think that Type 1 Diabetes should be called something else and therefore putting a stop to stereotypes. 

I didn't get Type 1 Diabetes because I ate too many sweets, contrary to popular belief. I got it because my pancreas stopped producing insulin. The route cause of this is unknown but it could be down to genetics or a virus that I had when I was younger that messed my body up internally. I'll never be sure. But the fact of the matter remains; Type 1 Diabetes is nothing nothing nothing to do with diet.

The thing with type 2 is you have to watch what you eat. With type 1 you learn to count your carbs. This is so that you can count the carbohydrates that you eat and therefore give yourself enough insulin to break it down properly. This then maintains your blood sugar levels, provided you get your carb-to-insulin ratios right. This means that I can have a whole tub of ice cream if I wanted; provided I give myself enough insulin, my blood sugars will stay stable. (I've tried this and it worked). But obviously, just like a person without diabetes, you wouldn't do this all the time because it's unhealthy for anyone.

So to all you people who offer "friendly advice" such as questioning a Type 1 Diabetics choice of food, think first. Because there is honestly nothing more annoying. And it makes us want to punch you in the face whilst scoffing a bucket of KFC and washing it down with a McFlurry after (Ooooh KFC AND Maccy Dees in one sentence! How controversial!). Literally, nothing provokes me more.

This chica is nearly 48, diabetic and mum of 2!

Also, one last thing. Sierra Sandison should be an inspiration to all Type 1 Diabetics out there, because she definitely is to me. Don't use Type 1 Diabetes as an excuse for not being able to lose weight because it genuinely isn't a valid one. This disease shouldn't stop you from doing anything, because it's not like Type 2 Diabetes. You can have that killer body that you want because it won't stop you from achieving it. Only you can stop that. Through a steady healthy eating regime and light exercise, I've found myself having to shrink my jeans in the dryer just so that they fit! (That skint life tho... xD). 

And just ponder this fact for a second: The gorgeous being that is Halle Berry, is also Type 1 Diabetic. And she has a body that literally makes you die a little inside. So you cannot tell me that it's impossible to lose weight with Type 1 Diabetes. If you're on insulin, you can go on a low carb diet! I have and it's been amazing! Obviously, your body is your sculpture and your diabetes is your art to get right. So what works for me won't necessarily work for you. Consult your doc before making big changes. But don't ever use Type 1 Diabetes as an excuse.

So, be free and do what you want. Type 1 Diabetes is not a something to tie you down. It's just something we've been pinned with until they find a cure. Eat that ice cream, give your insulin and Z Snap anyone that asks you if you should be eating that.

The Music Corner

So seeing as I always seem to mention music in my posts, I've decided to do "The Music Corner". This new addition is going to be where I feature my favourite songs at the moment and skip to the good bit (Oh HELLO Rizzle Kicks reference!).

So today I'm gonna be talking about George Ezra. Look at his little face! This guy is honestly so amazing. I love his voice so much. It's so deep and powerful without going all "soul ballad-y". My favorite song by him is Blame It On Me. It's so beautiful and earthy. But obviously, he came to my attention for his song called Budapest.

I have one issue though Georgey.

It's just these lyrics:

My friends and family
They don't understand
They fear they'd lose so much
If you take my hand
But for you

I'd lose it all
 

Well George maybe that's the problem. Your family probably don't know this girl. And they know that if you went with her BAM! You'd leave them. That's what they don't understand. How could you leave them for some chick? Tell us that George. 

But other than that, it's a fab song. So check it out. I'd also recommend checking out his performance at Glastonbury because it was goosebumpily glorious (ooooh alliteration! How exciting!).

So anyway, that's all I have to say now! Hope you're enjoying the sun  as much as I am!

Keep smiling, folks!

Ditzy xXx

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Ben Howard, Sam Fender, Theo Speaks, Shaun T, Alan Sugar, Jon Richardson. . . A Seriously Mish Mash Collaboration

Hello there you amazing readers!

Right, the last few blogs I've written have been all started with an apology for not writing a post in ages followed by a promise to write more regularly. So I thought, why break the trend?

So, dear readers I am soooooo sorry for not writing a single post recently! I have honestly been soooo busy with coursework, work, and other issues. But, alas, I am back and I'm back with a vengeance! I am determined, DETERMINED, to write at least one blog post a week. I have vowed to myself that I will. So I will. There. Done.

Ok, so granted, the title to this post is a little weird. You may have heard of some of these people. You may not. But anyway, these are the people I shall mention in the blog.

So let's start with Ben Howard! I went to see Ben Howard last night and it was breath taking. I am not even kidding. I will even go so far as to admit that I, Ditzy Polka Dot, was rendered speechless.

I really like Ben's music and so I was looking forward to the gig. I had high expectations too. I had read online that he wasn't great at interacting with the crowd but that didn't phase me too much. I was going for the music. Let me tell you now, those expectations were exceeded mahoosively!


His smile!!

The atmosphere was great and Ben interacted with us perfectly. He was funny, so humble, and just brilliant. We managed to get quite near the front which was brilliant. But his voice!


Ben Howard's voice has the ability to send shivers down your spine and make you feel like you're flying all at once. It's honestly euphoric. It was also pretty emotional. I saw a few people shed a tear or two with some of his songs. But then he he'd lift you up with a different one. He played a few of his new songs, which are amazing! I think I like them even better than his old stuff. The crowd was great too. Very upbeat, but not annoying.

The set was absolutely gorgeous! The lighting, the background, the smoke. Everything was so perfect. Ben's band were great too, but I can't remember their names! Sorry! He used at least 3 different guitars too but I'm sure there were loads more. I'm just not very observant when it comes to things like that. But he kept switching to different ones between songs.

Sam Fender was the supporting act for Ben Howard. Let me tell you, this man is amazing!!!! From the information I managed to glean, Sam is from Shields (?) he plays the guitar, and he has an amazing voice. That is all I could find. Literally. But all that matters is he honestly has a voice that makes you melt. Excuse the ridiculous cliché but there honestly is no other way to put it. His voice is beautiful, really husky, and just. . . awesome! It gave me goose bumps. And shivers. And I'm pretty sure it gave someone heart palpitations but I'm not sure. But anyway, he's brilliant. Definitely someone I want to see before he gets an even bigger following. So yeah people, look out for SAM FENDER!

I have uploaded a few videos of both Ben Howard and Sam Fender on YouTube. The link is at the bottom of this post. Let me know what you think!

So the next person I am going to mention is my mate Théo Speaks =) To be honest, I'm going to let the video below do the talking, because it is seriously impressive. Théo has been freestyling for a while but has just started to get back into it. I also happen to know that he's been on telly doing it which is rather exciting! Check it out people, it's unreal. Even if you're not into football/sport/exercise, this is seriously inspirational. And coming from me, that should mean even more! He'll be uploading videos once a week so subscribe! And if you're around Manchester/Liverpool, look out for him!

Right, The Apprentice is back on! Yayyyyyy!!!!!! Have you guys been enjoying it? I have! Though, is it just me or are the girls really bitchy this year? Like REALLY horrible. They actually terrify me. Wouldn't like to come across them in a dark ally. But anyway, I have three faves; Jason Leech, Myles Mordaunt, and Neil Clough.

Jason! He is brilliant! I love how scattered and 'in his own world' he is! Yeah, so, like everyone else, I was wondering what such a person was doing on such a sophisticated, intimidating show. But there must be something! He's a historian, for goodness sake! So I reckon he might surprise us all! I just LOVE this quote made by the Jasonator. . .

“Some people might come to this process with a game plan. I just feel my effortless superiority will take me all the way.”

Go on Jase! Show them all how it's done!

So, Myles Mordaunt is another fave. Because he's beautiful. He's also 39. So it makes me feel a bit weird thinking he's beautiful. But hey, if it's on the screen I might as well appreciate the view! He's actually pretty good and very logical. I think he could go pretty far on the show.

Just to quote the man himself. . .

He says: “I’m business perfection personified.”

I think you're a lot of things perfection personified Myles ;) But that's just my humble opinion =P

Last but not least, Neil Clough! I've got to admit, I didn't really rate Neil at the beginning of the process, especially when he was PM. I thought he was a little too 'I know how to do this and I don't need anyone else's views, opinions, or anything on the matter'. And that attitude lost him the task. BUT on last weeks task ('the away day') where he gave his motivational speech, he really won me over. It was really sad about his dad passing away, but it was evident that he wasn't using this as a guilt trip or for a sympathy vote. He focused on how it made him determined to succeed. He also said that you need to have one drive in life. One focus. And that, ladies and gentlemen, really motivated me. So he's earned a newfound respect from me and various others who I've talked to on the matter.

According to his profile Neil is "a Manchester United supporter". Well, nobody's perfect! =P

So anyway, it's nice to see Lord Sugarlump back on our screens isn't it? Cocky and blunt as ever, and I love it! Can't wait for tonight's episode!!

Shaun T, if you don't know him, is a guy that has put together Insanity Workouts. He is famous for lots of things, but I know him through Insanity. People, I'd like you to put down whatever you're eating, make sure you're seated and ensure your breathing is steady. Because what I'm about to tell you will shock you to the core.

I have decided to start exercising.

Not just any exercise either. I've decided to start Insanity. These are highly intense workouts that you have to do for 40 minutes every day for 60 days. And when I say highly intense, I mean every word. The dude suggests you wear a HEART MONITOR! Yeah, I don't do things by halves =P

So the first day I did it was on Saturday, followed by a completely inspirationally (is that even a word?) healthy KFC Variety Meal. Ugh! WHEN will I say no to the stuff! But I am determined to lose weight, get fit, and just be healthy. So this is what I am endeavouring to do. Help! I will let you know of my progress. But if I don't write a blog post next week, it might be because I'm sat in a corner of my room, rocking back and forth, hugging myself, trying to find my happy place. Just a warning.

Ok last but not least. . . JON RICHARSON!!! Whoooooooop!!!!! Heard of him? I hope you have! Jon Richardson is one of my fave comedians EVER!!!! He's so awkward, such a loner, has such a cute smile and makes me laugh so much that I LOVE him!!!  He also wears cardigans! *cough* chunky knit conundrum *cough* ;) If that's not a sign people, I don't know what is!

SO, I know this post has been pretty random and scattered (not unlike Jason Leech) but I hope you have enjoyed your read! I shall start writing shorter blogs a lot more regularly so please keep coming back! I really appreciate your views and feedback!

Keep Smeating Folks! (Remember, just smile and eat peeps, just smile and eat)

Ditzy xXx


Oooh YouTube vids!

Sam Fender:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SsU_cEchbI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bnqaps0Ip7o

For more Sam Fender and Ben Howard vids, just check out my page on YouTube, because they're being uploaded as I type! Enjoy my little cupcakes! xXx

Forbidden Words at the Gym...=S

For those that know me, it will be a tremendous shock to you that I, Ditzy Polka Dot, who loves food more than people, have joined a Gym. Yes, the place with scary machines that put a fear and nervousness in you that you didn't realize you would EVER experience. The place in which people go to lose weight and tone up, even though the only ones I have seen so far are so toned and slim, you wonder why they are even there! Yes, ok, so they want to stay the wonderful shape they are, but it is kind of.....soul destroying, to put it lightly. But hey, I take consolation in the fact that they may have been slightly on the larger side before they got where they are today...perhaps....maybe....hopefully =S.

So anyway, the first time I went was as a free guest with a friend, to try out the facilities. That was interesting. It was like the blind leading the blind. But we had a great time, even if we did make certain people feel slightly nauseous with our poor attempt at stretching. So I had finished all my water 10 minutes into our "exercising" that I had to refill my bottle. I then get this unexplainable craving for KFC. So i announce to my friend, rather loudly, that I "fancy a KFC". Well, let me tell you, THAT was a mistake of gargantuan proportions! A girl passing me (the size of a twig, might I add) gave me the dirtiest look I have ever seen! I then realize where I am and regret my choice of timing and food choice. I also realize that the mention of any takeaway foods is simply forbidden in the gym... be it KFC, Burger King, McDonalds, or Pizza Hut.

So after a tough workout at the gym, I announce rather loudly that I fancy a poached egg with spinach, wild rocket, avocado, watercress, and other leafy green rabbit food for dinner when I get home. I also look out for the girl that passed me to give her a smug look implying " I may be slightly large, but I can also eat like a rabbit, just like you love". But I can't see her, much to my dismay. So with that, I leave the gym with my head held high, and my stomach sucked in and have my dinner...


It isn't quite the salad....its a 3 piece variety meal from KFC.....but don't worry, I had coleslaw!

Ditzy Polka Dot xXx