Welcome to Anna’s Diary

I have had a rather busy day even though I have had a day off. It has been time for me to review my vaccines. Vaccines are very interesting and previously I have worked scientifically two years with immunology. A vaccine is a biological preparation that improves immunity to a particular disease. It contains an agent that resembles the particular disease-causing microorganism, and is often made from weakened or killed forms of the microbe. In brief, the microbe stimulates the body’s immune system and a memory is induced. Later, the immune system can more easily recognize and destroy any of these microorganisms that it may encounter in the body. Complex chemical cascades in the body are induced with eg various immunoglobines (antibodies).

After some time, often years, the immunological memory is decreased and a new dosage of the vaccine needs to be repeated. I had three different vaccines today, so called booster dosages. Hepatitis A, tetanus and also against cholera. Normally, you are fine after vaccination, but there might be a few side effects. However, I did my exercise this evening since I feel ok.

“Tjejmilen” is approaching and I will spend time on my vacation running. Last summer I ran 8 km every day. I know I should do more interval training, and I will do that when possible. Exercise is definitely good for the immune system. No doubt about it.

I have spent quite a lot of time cooking in life, and I find it a great hobby. I search for nice recipes and ingredients. The season influences, and it was a long time ago that I made a Paella so that was a nice memory to revive. The saffron is a wonderful spice. Now is also the time of the year to have fresh seafood. However, in Sweden it is said that seafood is best from September-April. The months containing an R. I don’t know if that is right.

What is your favorite spice? Mine are salt n’ pepper. I have been on spice tours a couple of times in tropical countries. That is really fascinating. I especially remember how cardamom grew on the ground. Cinnamon is also impressive, coming from the inner bark of trees. Like words are interesting, when you can derive where they come from, it is also exciting to learn where spices come from. Fresh herbs are delicious. To be reminded to the Mediterranean. Like fresh tomatoes from southern France. My life in a nutshell.

It would be interesting to measure my MAO levels. I would guess that I have low levels since I have always liked exploring new areas. I like to fly. Last time I traveled was to Dubai, and when I was in Abu Dhabi I saw Ferrari World. An exotic mix of religion and cars, and a contrast to what I am used to see. That journey gave me a lot of inspiration to write. After my mothers passing away I now need a new mind set. I need to do something different, and to find inspiration to write more about Greten and her growing up.