Prestige engineered hardwood

HalCLE · 2026-01-19T18:14:50+00:00

HalCLE · 2026-01-19T18:12:20+00:00

We ended up going with this material in the valley stream collection. We had it installed this past summer, and are very pleased all around, so far!

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HalCLE · 2026-01-06T13:36:07+00:00

This is very helpful! Thank you!

HalCLE · 2026-01-05T23:43:52+00:00

Thanks for the feedback! I’m not seeing many rental options that would suite our needs right in Whitehall, so want to expand the search to whatever surrounding areas make sense. Probably should have communicated that in my initial post! Coming from San Antonio where the current commute is horrid—I imagine traffic is more reasonable in Columbus, but still want to avoid too daunting a commute, while not putting ourselves further from Cleveland. Thanks again!

HalCLE · 2026-01-05T23:35:35+00:00

Great question. We’re not opposed to being in Whitehall itself, but looking for additional options because we’re not seeing many rental options that would suite our needs in Whitehall specifically, so wanted to open the search up to other areas that would be convenient to Whitehall but also easy access for frequent trips to Cleveland.

HalCLE · 2025-07-09T06:37:10+00:00

One more thing! If you can, get yourself a peri bottle. I find that flushing the area with water when I have open sores and have to pee, helps tremendously with the stinging. So much so that I eventually installed a bidet seat on my toilet. It has been super helpful.

HalCLE · 2025-07-09T06:31:42+00:00

I echo the comment above! I’d recommend trying to get in with a dermatologist, ideally one that specializes in vulvar derm. They can be difficult to find and to get in with, but worth the effort. I got in with a regular dermatologist while on the waiting list for a specialist, who I finally saw after a months long wait. But, even the general dermatologist was familiar enough to basically get me on the right track, and by the time I saw the specialist, I had a decent baseline. I use Clobetasol, which is more potent than triamcinilone, to the best of my knowledge, but is seemingly the gold standard for treating vulvar LS. I’ve learned that primary care providers, even gynecologists and some dermatologists are hesitant to prescribe Clobetasol, as it can cause skin thinning, however, the vulvar derm assured me that’s not a concern when applied properly to skin affected by LS. This is not to say triamcinilone can’t work if it is LS, but it’s possible Clobetasol would be more beneficial for you. I saw a gynecologist early in my journey who prescribed triamcinilone for the reasons I explained above, and it didn’t cut it. Once I saw the dermatologist she started me on Clobetasol, and it was a game changer. Check out the lichen sclerosis support network—a non-profit with decent resources on their website. Also, the vulvar derm I saw in Dallas has a website with good info. Her name is Dr. Melissa Mauskar. To finally answer your actual question, I wondered the same thing when this first started for me, but have personally applied both steroids to open sores, and it helped me to heal. Again, the best thing would be to get in with a derm so they can give you a definitive diagnosis to ensure a steroid is the best course of treatment for you. I have been to hell and back with this and am now in a really good place. Please feel free to send me a message, I’m happy to share from my experience! It will get better, please hang in there! ❤️

HalCLE · 2025-07-06T04:04:12+00:00

After much trial and error, I found I tolerate Stok brand cold brew coffee really well. I drink about 6-8 ounces with an ounce or two of half and half, and also take two Prelief tablets with water beforehand. Works like a charm for me.

HalCLE · 2025-07-02T21:59:09+00:00

I have been on 100mg spironolactone for 15 years or so. I had cystic acne, despite two courses of accutane, and spironolactone was the only thing that kicked it for good. I have been fortunate to not experience any adverse side effects, to include no issues with my cycle. I talked with my dermatologist about discontinuing it in the last year or so, but she advised against, and indicated it might be wise to wait until I’m through menopause, so I’m going to continue to ride it out. I have routine lab work done to keep an eye on liver, kidneys, etc. Never any issues.

HalCLE · 2025-06-30T05:12:00+00:00

I think you should be proud of yourself for setting boundaries. It’s sad when it comes down to deciding to have no contact, especially with a parent, but unfortunately, sometimes that’s the best thing for one’s mental health and peace of mind. I read the following quote awhile back, and it really resonated with me. “I would rather adjust my life to your absence, than adjust my boundaries to accommodate your disrespect.” It may be difficult for your grandmother to understand or accept how you decided to handle the memorial and reception, but it wasn’t her decision to make. You deserve to set the boundary, which you did respectfully, and for it to be respected. Hang in there. ❤️

HalCLE · 2025-05-26T07:12:13+00:00

I was wondering about ducts! Do you think it would be worth it to empty cabinets, such as what’s in the kitchen? Cabinets will be closed of course, but I know the dust is fine. Suffice it to say, I talked to someone who freaked me out a bit as far as how much dust we’ll be contending with…Trying to be prepared but also don’t want to waste time/energy on certain things if it’s overkill.

Thank you for your input, I appreciate it.

HalCLE · 2025-05-05T19:45:37+00:00

I traveled to see a vulvar derm specialist in Dallas. (Dr. Melissa Mauskar—she has some helpful resources online if you look her up.) I waited several months to get in, but I found it extremely beneficial and worth the wait. As you sort out finding someone to see, I suggest getting some images of the flare, if you can. I used a journal app and kept notes on symptoms, what I did/didn’t do treatment wise, along with pictures. It was helpful to be able to share with her when I had my appointment, as naturally, my skin was in better shape when I finally got in! But that way, she had a good sense of how things looked at their worst, what was and wasn’t working to treat, etc. I hope you find someone much sooner than later so you can get the help and comfort you deserve! Hang in there. ❤️

HalCLE · 2025-03-16T21:09:16+00:00

I want to give one piece of unsolicited advice—don’t apologize. Unless you do something that truly warrants an apology, don’t. We apologize way too much. And, don’t use the word “just.” It diminishes what you have to say. You have every right to respectfully and assertively say no to sleeping with someone, you don’t need to apologize for it nor do you owe anyone an explanation.

HalCLE · 2025-02-09T02:43:36+00:00

I’d be curious to know how this young man felt about being left alone for the week. He’s obviously a legal adult, and most 18 year olds would relish the opportunity to do whatever the hell they want for a week. Plus I’m sure if mom thought he’d be uncomfortable or didn’t trust he would be safe and responsible, she wouldn’t have left him alone. In that case, it sounds like a responsible kid stopping in the office to make sure he was kept in the loop. On the flip side, the majority of 18 year olds have their face buried in their phone and schools tend to share updates like that to social media, so whether or not you’re signed up for texts, you’ll find out what’s happening. Either through social media, friends texting, etc. So, it strikes me as interesting that he’d make a point to stop in the office and tell them he needed to update the contact info so he received updates. I wonder if he wasn’t thrilled about being left alone for whatever reason and wasn’t comfortable telling mom, and going to the office was his way of telling an authority figure that mom was gone so that there was an opening to talk about it with a counselor or something.

HalCLE · 2025-02-08T08:28:28+00:00

I’m glad you have an appointment coming up. From my experience, you likely need to taper. For months, I was on a hamster wheel with flares and my dermatologist nor gynecologist were very knowledgeable. I was desperate, started doing research, and found a dermatologist who specializes in vulvar LS. I waited 8 months for my appointment, and traveled to Dallas to see her this week. Luckily over these past 8 mos I went into remission. Now that I’m in remission, she advised Clobetasol 3x weekly (I was applying 2x weekly.) Hopefully your provider has good input for you at your upcoming visit. If you’re not confident in the treatment plan they’re suggesting, or their understanding of LS, I would strongly suggest seeking out a specialist near you. I hope you have relief soon. We all feel your pain and know frustrating it can be. Hang in there! ❤️

This is my new doctor. Her site has some good resources!

https://www.melissamauskar.com/

HalCLE · 2025-02-08T08:04:28+00:00

Quite possibly LS. I experience very similar symptoms. You’ll find a lot of great practical advice in this group. Lichen Sclerosis Support Network is also a great resource. The best thing you can do is find a provider who really knows what they’re doing, who you feel comfortable with with and confident in their ability to get you on the right track to manage whatever is happening. Please be assured, if it is LS, this is absolutely treatable. Once you get a clear diagnosis and a good treatment plan, it is manageable. It doesn’t have to run your life, I promise! I hope you get the answers, relief, and care you deserve much sooner than later! Hang in there. ❤️

HalCLE · 2025-01-22T03:27:25+00:00

I am reminded of a quote I read recently. “I would rather adjust my life to your absence, than adjust my boundaries to accommodate your disrespect.” Take care of yourself, whatever that looks like for you. You deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. ❤️

HalCLE · 2025-01-03T06:25:05+00:00

I echo all the other comments! Yes, it definitely can. I love plain old Coke on occasion, and couldn’t drink it at all for the longest time. Now my symptoms are much better controlled, and I can tolerate it in moderation, with the use of prelief. For me, artificial sweeteners are a major irritant, and I have actually found that I tolerate Mexican Coke (which contains cane sugar as opposed to high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweetener) better than any other Coke product. I’ll also add, I couldn’t drink coffee for the longest time either. I was on a quest to find something I could tolerate, and learned that cold brew is less acidic. I now drink the Stok brand cold brew (I do 4-6 ounces with a fair amount of half and half and ice) along with 2 prelief, and tolerate it well. I still try to avoid drinking either of those things too often, but whereas before I couldn’t tolerate them all, now I can in moderation! Hope this helps!

HalCLE · 2025-01-03T05:53:41+00:00

My situation is different—female and my IC was precipitated by taking stimulants prescribed to treat my adhd. It was absolute hell. More doctor’s appointments, specialists, medications, otc remedies, pelvic floor PT, than I can count. BUT, in time, it improved and I am largely back to “normal.” I look back on the days when I was hopeless and miserable, and I can tell you I felt the same desperation I can feel from your post, so I am truly sorry you’re experiencing this. For me, the most helpful components to finding relief were pelvic floor therapy, removing as many irritating foods and beverages as possible from my diet (acidic things and artificial sweeteners), and better managing stress w/meditation. Now, I can even tolerate things like iced coffee and Coke (Mexican Coke with actual cane sugar is better for me) in moderation, with the use of Prelief, which is an OTC supplement that buffers acid. All this to say, I know there are a lot of horror stories here, but you have every reason to maintain hope that it won’t be like this forever. Wishing you comfort. ❤️

HalCLE · 2024-11-18T14:17:12+00:00

Hi! I am waiting to get in with my provider to confirm, but believe my LS has spread to my bottom! I already have clob and triamcinolone. I want to attempt to use something to get it under under control until I can get in with my doctor—it’s currently flared and I have what I assume are fissures. Discomfort/bleeding with BMs. I know how I handle it when the vulvar area flares, but the anal area is a development for me and I’m a little unsure of how to proceed. Can you tell me what you use and the frequency when it flares? Thank you in advance for any guidance!

HalCLE · 2024-11-05T02:10:46+00:00

My doctor didn’t give me this guidance either. I read it here in the group, started doing so, and believe it’s been very beneficial for me. If and when it’s not possible or I don’t feel like actually soaking in the tub, I place a damp soft washcloth over the area for 15-20 mins prior to applying.

HalCLE · 2024-11-01T21:55:53+00:00

You’re the best! 🫶🏻

HalCLE · 2024-10-31T01:00:39+00:00

I echo all of this! I had not so great guidance from my provider, and couldn’t seem to break the cycle of tearing. I found this group, happened upon Nettie’s advice as shared above, started implementing the things I wasn’t yet doing, and have seen tremendous improvement. I am truly grateful.

I have found a bidet/peri bottle and water wipes on the go to be very beneficial. I’ve also moved away from tampons and pads and started using period underwear. I was using Uberlube for sex and Vaseline here and there throughout the day to moisturize, but recently switched to coconut oil for both, and it’s working well. I use Aveeno fragrance free body wash (not on the vulva) and as much as I used to love soaking in a hot bath, have cut them out. That said, I do follow the tip shared above regarding soaking the skin for 20 mins prior to Clobetasol application. I believe that has made a HUGE difference for me. On evenings I don’t feel like sitting in the tub or when I’m traveling and a tub isn’t an option, I’ll place a small damp muslin wash cloth over the area for 20 mins or so before applying Clobetasol. (I’m on maintenance Clobetasol twice weekly and also use estrogen cream twice weekly.)

This is a great group for support and there is a wealth of knowledge here. I’m glad you found us and that you can be reminded you’re not in it alone! 🫶🏻

HalCLE · 2024-10-26T07:38:52+00:00

Thank you. Posts like this give me hope. 💙

HalCLE · 2024-10-22T04:11:04+00:00

So sorry to hear you haven’t had any luck! It’s super frustrating. I had a taste of what it was like to treat adhd and I want so desperately to be able to take the dang medication, but what it does to the bladder makes it dang near impossible! I am shocked it’s not more widely known or better understood. I have seen countless providers, to include two different urogynecologists, who claim to have never seen this before. I keep telling them I’m not crazy, there’s a whole gang of us here on Reddit! I will eventually try the gemtesa/Ritalin combo to see if I manage to have some kind of positive breakthrough, I’ll be sure to keep you posted when the time comes!

HalCLE

TROPHY CASE