Val's Journal

2010-10-03T20:50:00.002-04:00

Well I guess it's about time for an update. Things have been a little crazy and hectic. Ok, so on 9/19 my brother and I drove to Gainesville to stay the night so I could get up bright and early to go to the hospital at 6a.m. I had a date with the plastic surgeon to get some new boobies. Things went according to plan and the were on time with just about everything they said. The doctor came in and marked up my skin with what his plan was. Oh, and by the way, he is a big time Gator fan. I really didn't hold that against him as I have heard alot about his success and credentials as a surgeon. And he is a very nice guy. I did tell him before taking me back that I did not want to wake up with any Gator attributes. He said he could make my boobs into Gator heads that would chomp now and then. It was actually quite funny. Ok, so surgery was to start at 8a and last till it was done. All I remember is being wheeled down the hall. He finished at 6:15 p. Yes, 10 hours. But he said everything went great and he was able to do what he expected. Then in recovery for a couple of hours. I don't think I got out of there until close to 10p and up to PCU, Progressive care unit. Similar to ICU but not as serious. I think it was about 11:30 by the time I was finally settled. The first 24 hours the nurse has to come in and use a doppler to listen to each boob to hear the blood vessels working. It sounds almost like a baby's hearbeat when you're pregnant. Not a whole lot of sleep. They also have to check your vitals, tempature, etc. Well the first 24 hours I did get a fever that eventually got up to 102 which is not uncommon. I had gotten one after my mastectomy surgery as well. So the next day, Tues, I have to get out of bed and sit in a chair 3 times. OMG - really? The bed converts to a chair so it does make it a bit easier to get up but that first time was horrible. By the third time it was a little better. And that night they came in every 2 hours so I got a little more sleep. Can't sleep very well on your back not being able to move. Day 3, had to be able to walk a little in the hall and to the bathroom. I could only walk out the door and 1/2 what they wanted me to. By the 3rd time though I was able to go the distance. And one of the nurses washed my hair with this cool shower cap thing. It goes in the microwave to warm up and it is soapless but cleans your hair and smells good. That was a nice change. Thursday, day 4, up again and walking and sitting. Getting a little better but still very hard to do. Nurses only bothered me about every 4 hours this time. I had to take a shower this day which was nice. The nurse on duty said it gets a little kinky because she has to help me. No problem with me as I can move. Things went well and I felt great afterwards. Food was not too bad but not feeling like eating very much. Still getting poked and picked with shots and blood drawn. I am so over this by now. Good night sleep and plans to go home Friday. Doctor checked on me each morning and said everything looked great. I had this stomach pain pump thing that automatically released meds in my belly (which is where they took the stuffing for my boobies and some skin). As the nurse removed it is, since it was close to my pelvic area, I could feel her pulling some hair. Ok, wasn't expecting that. My brother thought it was cool that I could get a brazillian, tummy tuck and a boob job all in the same surgery. Yeah - funny. Ok, so Friday I am off and running, ready to go home. 2 hour ride but felt ok. Most of the week was uneventful. Can't really sleep and get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. Take naps. Stopped taking pain meds Sunday night. I'm a little sore but not really in pain. Went back to doctor on Wednesday and he was excited to see his "masterpiece" as he put it. Said thinks looked great. He took out 3 of the 4 tubes and said to come back this Thursday to get the stitches out of my stomach. Are you freaking kidding me? They are from hip to hip. He said it was one long stitch. I asked if he cuts one end and pulls - he said no, they will cut it in a few spots. I really hate getting stitches out. I plan to attempt to go to work tomorrow to see how I do. I won't push it but I might try to put in a few hours. All in all, so far I am doing well. My sister-in-law is back on drain nazi duty and doing a great job. The fluid hasn't stopped enough yet to take out the last tube, but I hope if nothing else it will come out on Thursday at my appt.
Thanks for the continued prayers and support as I continue my road to recovery.

2010-07-24T23:20:00.002-04:00

Wow - has it really been 3 months since I have blogged. I actually thought it has been longer. At lot has happened. I had my follow up with my doctor and my glucose numbers are good. I don't always check my daily numbers like I should. I really need to start doing that. I had an appointment with my oncologist and she said everything is good. She did have some bad news for me though. She has resigned at the office she is at and will be leaving in December. She is not quite sure where she is going yet, but said for me to definately look her up. I will see her again in November so I hope to know then what she will be doing. I decided to call a plastic surgeon in Gainesville I had heard about, mainly to find out what time frame I was looking at for appointments and surgery. Knowing my appointment with the radiologist was in November and I would probably have to wait until then to do anything. Well, to my surprise, the girl told me it was better to plan early rather than later. I was able to get an appt for an evaluation and consultation this past Tuesday. So I go to see him, super nice guy and great office people. He said I was healed well enough to move forward as long as I had a letter from my oncologist. Good thing my appt was with her the day after. So they had a few openings for surgery over the next couple of months. I ended up scheduling my reconstruction surgery for 9/20 in Gainesville. I will end up being there Mon-Fri. It is a very long surgery (mostly all day), so I am quite nervous but excited at the same time. So I have 2 months to prepare and look forward to a new me.
Ok, well my son has turned 16 and passed his drivers test. He was really nervous, but he did great. He has not taken the car on his own yet - he is not quite comfortable. That is fine with me. And I celebrated my birthday yesterday.
Hopefully I will be back into the swing of blogging and keep you updated on the happenings.

2010-04-07T20:16:00.002-04:00

Dear Blog,
I am so sorry I have neglected you lately. Seems like other things are taking my time.
Today is milestone, so to speak. One year ago today I called my surgeon to find out the results of my 2nd biopsy and heard the words I never wanted to hear. It was a very emotional day, one that I had to come home and let sink in until I went to her office the next day to find out my fate. I can't believe it has been a year. Looking back at that day, I wondered how I would ever get thru all that was ahead of me. I am so fortunate to have great family, friends, work support, church support and others that have prayed for me along the way, prepared meals for my family, sent cards or well wishes and just offered support in every way. As my brother responded to me today in an email - to think this time next year, I should be done with reconstruction and the last of the healing. It seems like so far away but I know it will be here before I know it and I will be writing a similar message.
Ok - so to update from where I left off, I went to my 6 week follow up with my primary doctor and she was happy with my glucose numbers and I had lost 7 pounds in those 6 weeks. She said I could go from testing 4 times a day to only 2 times. Yay. I never thought I would think pricking my fingers 2 times a day would be a good thing but it sure beats 4. I will follow up with her in May. On a side note, my prayers are with my friend Debra who had a lumpectomy last week, and no positive lymph nodes. I hope I don't stay away as long this time. Until then - Enjoy each sunrise.

2010-03-18T21:17:00.002-04:00

So what's new? Well, the blood testing is going ok so far. A bit of a hassle but I'm trying to keep up with things. I've been to 2 classes so far. The first one on what diabetes is and what it can do to your body if you don't stay on top of it. The second was on nutrition. What to look for on lables, what I should and shouldn't eat. It was actually quite informative. One more to go. Ok, so I went to the orthopedic doc yesterdy for a check up on my shoulder. Had an x-ray and the doc was pleased with how things have healed. The fracture seems to be healed for the most part, and he said there was a crack across the bone that is healing well. I told him I didn't know there was a crack. He said he didn't notice it last time but could see the new bone growing. OK. News to me. Any way he said to still take it easy with the arm and I will probably still feel some soreness for awhile. Next I go to my oncologist today for my 2 month follow up. My son had made brownies for me to take to her office. She was very appreciative for the goodies. She was happy with the healing as well. A lot better from last time. Still has a little more to go but the swelling is much better. I told her about the diabetes and she was not surprised due to the chemo. She was surprised I was put on medication already and said to make sure I have my blood checked frequently. If I could get back to my pre-chemo weight and work on exercise I could probably drop my sugar level back to what it was. She gave me the indication that it most likely is not a permanent situation. Gave me a bit of hope. Don't have to go back for 4 months.

2010-03-09T22:30:00.003-05:00

I am such a slacker. Ok so here's the latest. I finally got my tester last Tuesday and started testing my blood sugar on Wednesday. It took a few days to get used to but I have managed to keep up with it so far. The morning fasting levels seem a bit high but the rest of the day seems to be ok. I have done pretty good with food choices so far (at least I think I have). I went to a class tonight that that was 3 hours long. I have to take 3 classes to learn about the disease, nutrition and how to keep my blood sugar in check to prevent future problems that can be caused by diabeties. It was long but quite informative tonight. Actually it was quite scary. To hear what can happen if you don't keep your sugar level in check. I guess I will be doing as much as I can to control it. I came home and my son had done the dishes and even made dinner. What a great kid. Then we took a long walk with the dogs. The biggest things that will help is exercise so I should try to walk some everyday. Ok, so while we were walking tonight something pretty funny came up. I am not a runner but sometimes I jog just a little with the dog. Well Suger and I were trying to keep up with Nick and Harley and I realized (for the first time since surgery) that my boobs didn't hurt when I ran. I would usually have to hold them to stop from bouncing so much. Well, not outside where people can see. It was quite a funny thought. Humor goes a long way and sometimes you just have to see the funny in things. Thanks to the church ladies for bringing me food this evening. They heard of my shoulder issue and thought it would help for me to have food. How very thoughtful. You should always take the opportunity to pay it forward. One thing I haven't mentioned is: a girl I work with was diagnosed with breast cancer a few weeks ago (maybe 2 months ago). She had never had a mammogram and finally went. They found a small spot that needed to be biopsied. Come to find out, it was bigger than they thought. I had referred her to my surgeon and come to find out she needed to have a mastectomy. However, it was caught early enough and it was a type that did not require further treatment. She was able to have immediate reconstruction. So many people were very generous with me by bringing me and Nick food that I felt I needed to do the same for her. I coordinated meals from those at work to keep her and her family supplied with dinner the last 9 days. I know it seems like a simple gesture but it makes the world of difference on the receiving end. I'll keep you posted on my food and testing progress.

2010-02-27T21:30:00.002-05:00

I guess I am overdue for an update. Lots going on and have not been insistant on updating. So, let's see, I went to the doctor 2 weeks ago and reported that I am not classified as a diabetic. Yay me. As of today I am still waiting on my testing supplies to show up. They are ordered thru a medical supply company and gets shipped. The good thing is my insurance covers it so I won't have to pay for strips or lancets, which I understand can be quite expensive. So last Monday I go to the diabetic center my doctor sent me to for one-on-one appointment on what I need to be doing, how to use the blood glucose meter and sign up for a class. So we talked about what I should be eating and how to keep my sugar in check. It's not really as bad as I thought, I just have to be selective. I can have bread if I want but I am limited on the grams of carbs I can have at each meal and snack. So, if I eat the bread, I can't have other starch. I should have some carbs at each meal. Even though I don't have my meter yet, I have tried to start eating the way I should and starting to walk some so I can make the transition. So I have 3 classes I have to go to that are 3 hours long. For real?? They do serve dinner so at least I'll get a free meal. Ok, so one thing that I haven't had checked yet - my eyes. Something some people might not know is I do use eye drops for a type of glaucoma known as pigmentary glaucoma. I don't have any effects from it yet so right now I am just doing preventative treatment. So my eyes are normally checked every 6 months. Since all this started last March I have not had my eyes checked. I thought the chemo and meds my have had an effect on my eyes (as it had everything else) and I also was not using my drops for awhile just out of inconvenience. I had a check up on Friday and things look great and my eye pressure was down 4 point from the last time. Pretty good I would say. And on top of that, my prescription had not changed. Yay, something that improved. I imagine I will get my meter on Monday, hopefully, not that I am anxious to prick myself 4 times a day, I just want to get this started. Oh yeah, I also went to my hairdresser for the first time since she shaved my head in May. Believe it or not my hair has grown in very even and has gotten a bit long. She trimmed the top and back to match the length of the front and then cut some on the side and gave me a few whisps by my ears. It now has some kind of style to it. Well, that's the update for now. I'll post more once I get going on my blood testing.

2010-02-16T22:30:00.002-05:00

Just when does it stop?? You would think that all i had to deal with last year was enough for anyone to deal with for awhile. Then I have to deal with a fractured shoulder. Which is slowly getting better. It is hard to sleep at night but I am able to manage during the day. Well, then this past weekend my son was having groin pains. So yesterday I take him to the doctor. It is a guy thing that just happens sometimes, however they take it serious and want to make sure there is no other problem. So off to get an ultra sound. And to top it off, he had 2 ladies in there due to one in training. Of course, they didn't tell me that. Thirty minutes later they were finally finished. Good thing is - he is normal and things are find but he is on an antibiotic. Ok, so today I go to my doctor to follow up on blood work I did last week. Well, she doesn't like my sugar numbers. I have been put in the diabetic column. After much conversation, come to find out, the steroid I was given during my chemo can increase the sugar levels. So now I am on medication for diabeties and have to start taking my blood sugar levels 4 times a day. And see my doc and do blood work every 3 months. What joy. Back on a special diet, exercise and hope that I can get my sugar levels on track and not have other problems. Ok, so the chemo kills the cancer, but can elevate your sugar and make you gain weight. The Tamoxifin will help prevent cancer from returning, but promotes osteoperosis and slows your metabolism, which makes you gain weight. A little good with the bad - kind of like 2 steps forward and 4 steps back. I don't remember signing up for this journey and I think I would like a refund since I am not satisfied with the events. I need continued prayers to deal with all of this and also to get thru whatever challenges may be ahead. I need strength to get thru the day to day choices. I hope I can get thru this.

2010-02-07T22:26:00.002-05:00

Has it really been that long since I have blogged? Well, I went to the ortho last Monday. Good news - if you want to call it that. It is only a small fracture that does not require surgery. It will heal on its own but will take awhile. He gave me an immobilization brace and a sling and also some exercises I need to do. Told me to come back in 6 weeks to re-check it. The brace he gave me is a piece of crap and doesn't really work. It has been challenging at work to say the least. I often rotate wearing the brace in the morning for a couple of hours, then my sling, then nothing. At night it is hard to sleep and be comfortable. I try to keep my arm stationary and in the morning it is quite sore and stiff. I have also worn my lymphedema sleeve a few times and it is tight on my arm so it keeps things somewhat stable. My son has been a great help. He does the dishes, helps me cook and he even scrubbed the kitchen floor. I am very proud of the young man he is becoming. I have to pat myself on the back for doing a great job raising him. (if I do say so myself). Well, on to another week of healing. Check back for the latest news.

2010-01-29T22:36:00.002-05:00

Sometimes life just sucks. I went to the doctor today to see what damage I may have done to my arm. It would have been nice to have been told I just jammed it and it will be back to normal in the next couple weeks. Noooo, I find out I have a small fracture in the humorus in the upper shoulder. What the hell????? It wasn't very humorus. I have to go to the orthopedic doctor on Monday to see what I am in store for. I am hoping it is not surgery. I would much rather have to wear a sling type brace for a few weeks and let it heal on its own. Like I don't have enough on my plate or I didn't go thru enough the past 10 months. I feel bad for my son, having to continue to take care of mom. He is definately getting some of life's challenging lessons. But he is great. I could not ask for a better son. And he continues to find the humor in things and laughs at me rather than take things too seriously. Until Monday - stay tuned for the next chapter in a day in the life of Val. Pray, pray, pray that I can be healed easily.

2010-01-24T23:06:00.002-05:00

Well, if this wasn't an interesting weekend. First to go back to the work week. I had my followup appointment with the oncologist. I was really nervous about this appt as I was to get the results of my scans from the week before. I'm not really sure what I was afraid of, I guess I just wanted to hear that all the crap I went thru the 6 months prior did what it was supposed to. My brother went with me. My blood work looked good. The report showed some soft tissue that they weren't sure what it was. Turns out it is the upper chest area, indicates still swollen from surgery, chemo and radiation. Not anything of a concern but still healing. Doctor wants to keep on eye on it to make sure it heals. She said it was not uncommon and that things looked the way there were supposed to. She also told me I had gallstones so if I started having pain to let her know and I'd probably have to have it taken care of. So I need to see her again in 2 months to check the healing and then every 3 months thereafter. So on to the weekend. There is a few big things in my house I wanted to get rid of (wall unit, table, etc) so I started to empty them this week and had planned to take them to Goodwill. A friend at work was having a garage sale on Sat, so she offered for me to bring my stuff over and try to sell them first. So, I started looking thru the house and garage and found some things to try to sell. Well, it ended up being colder than anticipated so we did not have much activity. We plan to try again next weekend. Well, later in the evening I went into the laundry room to get something out of the dryer. We have a baby gate blocking part of the room to keep the dog out of the cats food and litter box. I most often just step over it. Well, on my way back out of the room, my back foot got stuck on the gate and I couldn't get my foot free. I fell into the door in front of me and my right arm is what caught me first, then my face hit the door, then I fell to the floor. OMG. I had a small cut on my forehead from my glasses, which also got bent. I think my arm took the weight of my fall. I layed on the floor and could not move my arm. The upper portion (bicep) is very sore. I think I pulled muscle or ligaments or something. My son helped me up and I couldn't move my arm. We called my brother who come over to check it out. I didn't believe anthing was broken but there was concern since it was the right side. Same side as radiation and lymph nodes removed. I put ice on it, took ibuprofin and tried to take it easy. Everytime I moved, my arm hurt. Had a hard time sleeping. It felt a little better this morning but I still could not do too much with it. I can't use it for anything that requires strength. Thank goodness I have such a great son who is very willing to step up and help me out. Basically sat on the couch all day with ice off and on. Not sure if I will be able to work tomorrow. I will see how it is tomorow and determine if I should call the doctor. I think it was just a sprain or pull and it will just take time to heal. Never a dull moment around here.

2010-01-17T20:38:00.002-05:00

Happy Sunday. It's been a decent week at work. We have had fun with the dogs. Took them to see my friend today. They were running around the backyard. Well she has a pool and Harley has not been around a pool before so he thought he could run across it to catch up with Sugar. Splash - he went right in. 50 degree water too. He started swimming right away to the side so I had to grab him out of the water. Good thing I didn't have to jump in. After a little while, Harley and Sugar kept trying to drink the water from the pool. Well, down at the deep end, Harley bent over to drink water and straight down into the pool he went. OMG - I wasn's sure if he was coming back up. Nick was there this time and had to grab him out of the water. It was quite funny. He did end up getting a bath when we got home and Sugar did too. I think I had my first real hot flash last night. I was actually sweating and was very warm. I meet with the oncologist this week and don't expect anything unusual. At that point, I believe I am done until May. On to another week.

2010-01-13T22:10:00.002-05:00

I am so glad to know that people are still reading my blog. I know, I haven't written in the last 10 days, and some of you have noticed. I just didn't think people wanted to hear about my daily work adventures. So since I last wrote we have adopted a new puppy from the shelter. It's a boxer mix and he looks just like our other dog we got from the shelter 3 years ago. We've named him Harley and he is a cutie. He is getting along very well with our dog, Sugar and is very smart. We have been having a lot of fun with him. Took him to the vet yesterday and he is in very good health. It is getting us out walking as we try to take a walk daily when I get home from work.
Ok, so on to me. I have been doing well and healing fine. I had my first follow up scans today. I had a chest x-ray and CT chest scan. I have a follow up appointment with the oncologist next Thursday so I will most likely find out the results at that time. I am a little nervous since it is the first check up since my treatments. I'm sure things will be fine but one can't help but be nervous. I seem to be doing well with the tamoxofin medication I am on. I get a little warm now and then but I am tolerating it just fine.
Had my annual review at work and things went fine. I still have a job, which I am very blessed to have and also got a raise in pay, which is always good.
Well, that's the update for now. Stay tuned for more news coming soon.

2010-01-04T21:17:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, Sunday, I picked up Nick at his friend's house and we went to a move. Saw the Chipmonks - very cute. Did a little shopping then Nick made dinner on the grill. Nice to be taken care of by my son.
Today - back to work for the beginning of the year. Not a bad start. Went to the radiologist today for my follow up. Hard to believe that it has been 60 days since my last radiation treatment. I brought my camera so I could get a picture with the doctor. I told him I was going to write a book one day and wanted to be able to put pictures of my doctors in there. Of course when he came in I had already put my lovely gown on. I told him I couldn't do a picture with no top on, so he gave me a big hug to cover me and we got a great picture. He said it needed to be the cover picture of my book. Everything went fine and he said he would see me in 4 months. Unfortunately that means my reconstruction has to wait till after then. I told him my story of the over 50 discount at Beall's and he said he was glad to know they offer a discount. Although he will only be 45 - this Friday, which also happens to be my dad's birthday. He would be 80 if he was still with us. Guess I'm good for another week or two when I have my chest x-ray and follow up with the oncologist. Then I'm done for 4 months. Is it possible that before I know it, it will be Christmas again???

2010-01-02T22:59:00.003-05:00

A chilly start to a Saturday. And it is supposed to get down to about 19 tonight. Burr. I thought we left the cold last week. I got to sleep in which was nice. Nick wanted his friend, Kevin, to come over and play the new Wii, but first we went to the game store. He had credit from turning in some PS2 games. He found another Wii game, then we went to pick up Kevin. The two of them played a bit and Kevin's mom, Gail, came over and she and I went to a movie (New Moon). It was okay, but the book is better. It's a little slow in some parts but a good chick flick with my friend. When we got back, Nick went home with them for the night. Not much on tv tonight so it's quite boring. Made some salad for dinner. My chest is almost healed and I go to the radiologist on Monday for a follow up. I can't believe it has been almost 60 days since my last treatment. Time really does fly by, even though it doesn't seem so at the time. I can only hope and pray that this is all behind me for years and years to come. One more day of rest and then the normal routine sets in.

2010-01-01T21:46:00.002-05:00

Great day for football. Slept in, made breakfast then got ready for the FSU game. Great game. FSU won and it was the last game for Bobby Bowden and Mickey Andrews. Went to grocery store and Nick made dinner. Now watching the Gator game. Not sure I will be able to stay awake for the whole thing as I am falling asleep as it is. Not sure what tomorrow will bring but today has been a good start to the new year.

2010-01-01T13:16:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year. I hope it brings good things to us all. Thursday at work was very quiet. There was only about 10 of us there and not much going on. My boss was awesome and let us leave at 3. Nick and I went shopping, then had to make some stuff for my friend's party we were invited to. I don't usually go anywhere for new year's but we had a good time. Lot's of good food and friends to share with. I had a shot of some kind of peppermint schnapps, which was good, then had some shot of something from Peru - it was yuck. Then we had some champagne and set off fireworks. Crazy stuff. Thanks Ann. Today it is raining. Important bowl games to watch. Seminoles in the Gator Bowl as Coach Bowden coaches his last game. So sad. Then I'll have to watch the Gators in the Sugar Bowl so I can give my Gator friends some grief. Anyway - happy new year. Hope 2010 brings good things and leaves the hardship of 09 behind.

2009-12-30T21:52:00.002-05:00

Let's see if I can remember the last 3 days. Monday we woke up to homemade coffee cake, eggs and bacon for my niece's birthday. The kids then took off to go sledding and my brother and I went shopping. Later in the afternoon the kids went to a movie (Sherlock Holmes) and my brother, sister in law and I hung out at home getting dinner ready for the birthday girl. She turned 18. Another night of food and desserts. We had flank steak, asparagus, salad, shrimp, potstickers and nochi for dinner. Plain cheesecake with strawberry sauce, chocolate pound cake with chocolate icing, pecan pie, pecan tart and espresso cheesecake for dessert. I really don't need to eat for a week. Off to pack. How will I ever get everything back home. I was up till 12a trying to get things together.
Tuesday - up at 6:30, off to grab a bagel before heading to the airport. It was lightly snowing as we got to our gate to wait to board. The more we waited the harder it was snowing. So we boarded and were ready to leave on time - but wait, now we have to de-ice and we have 2 planes ahead of us. So sit and wait. We ended up leaving 50 min late. And of course they did not make up time in the air. Instead of arriving at 4:20 we didn't get in until 5:00. Had to wait a bit to get our bags and finally made it out of the airport parking lot at 6:00, just so we can drive 4 hours home. Made it home at 11p. Unpacked some stuff so I can be ready for work. Nick had to set up his Wii instead of waiting until today. He was up quite late and my head finally hit the pillow around 12:30.
Wednesday - had to get up at 6:30 again. Headed off to work and it was a long day. Not used to having to sit and work for 8 hours after having a nice vacation. But tomorrow is like a Friday as it is the last day of the week. Hopefully we will be able to leave early. Left work to go pick up my baby girl, Sugar. That's the dog. She was excited to see me and ready to head out the door for home. She ran around the yard a little bit, but then has been laying around sleeping since. I don't think she had much peace and quiet with 2 other dogs around. She finally ate some of her food and has been laying on the couch with one of the cats. Nick and I had to run out to get a few things and would you believe that a lady at the store asked me if I qualified for the OVER 50 discount??? Are you serious???? Ok, since my hair started growing back it is a little more on the salt side than the pepper side, but 50? I guess it could be worse - she could have asked if I qualify for the senior citizen discount. OMG. Pa-lease. So, getting ready for bed as I have to get up early again tomorrow. New Year's Eve. Happy New Year to my family and friends. May you have a safe evening and a great New Year.

2009-12-27T23:58:00.002-05:00

I can't believe the week has come to an end already. We got up and had eggs benedict for breakfast. Then we had to pack and clean up 3 houses, take down Christmas decorations, and get ready for the drive back to SLC. It didn't seem as cold today. Got back home and had to go to the grocery store for stuff for my niece's birthday tomorrow. Tonight we celebrated another cousin's birthday. Had morocan chicken pie, chicpea salad, cesear salad and spinach pie. Then key lime pie for dessert. It has really been fun sharing family time. I am ready for a good night sleep and hopefully sleep in a bit. I am feeling a bit better today, not as much coughing and not as stuffy. My arm is doing well but it feels a little tight. I keep rubbing it to make sure the fluid flows the right way and prevent swelling. Lots of fun planned for tomorrow before we have to pack and head home. I really miss our animals. Hope all is well on the home front.

2009-12-26T23:23:00.002-05:00

The day after Christmas and still having a blast. We mostly hung out chatting, some were reading, eating leftovers and telling stories. It was a little warmer today, like 18, but the sun was out and it was not windy so it did not seem as cold. Took a short walk - which can take your breath away in cold weather and high altitude. Of course we ate more leftovers for dinner. Most of the kids are now in the hot tub, which is outside on the deck. Not sure I understand that one. Oh, we wnded up staying today and will leave early tomorrow, after breakfast, which I heard was going to be eggs benedict. Can't say you don't eat good around here. I am trying not to count the days I have left, am trying to enjoy what is going on at the moment. It will be soon enough that I will be back home and back to the usual things going on. But for now - it's fun in the cold and snow and sharing special times with family.

2009-12-26T13:10:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas. Hard to blog when you don't have a computer with you and so much going on. The kids couldn't wait too long Christmas morning. We were up and getting ready about 6a. Had to wait for everyone to be here. It was a lot of fun. My son got me a bird feeder, perfume, fuzzy socks and a book. He got a Wii from my brother's family. I think he was excited. Now we have to figure out how to get them home. It also snowed which was a special treat on Christmas. Then we had blueberry french toast for breakfast. For dinner we had standing rib roast (prime rib). It was awesome. Can't say I have had this much good food at one time. We watched movies, read books, talked and some played poker. My arm seems to be handling the cold well. I wore my sleeve on the airplane but have not worn it since. I hope it doesn't all of a sudden start to swell. I still have a little bit of a cold I can't seem to shake. Other than that it has been a great visit. We are headed back to SLC today. I am really glad we got to share this special time with family.

2009-12-24T22:31:00.002-05:00

Let's see, where do I begin. Woke up Tuesday morning and took Nick to school. Came back home and tried to get a little rest before a long drive and it seemed that is when people wanted to text or call me. Finally got up and finished packing. Ran to the bank, then picked up Nick from school. Headed to Tampa to catch a flight. It wasn't a bad trip, only 4 hours. Found the airport ok and got a place to park. Tampa airport is a mess. We took a shuttle to terminal and decided to check our bags curb side. However, the cost was more than what they said it would be. But it is a good thing we did it outside because when we walked inside the line was ridiculous. We would still be standing there. So then we take a shuttle to the gates and getting off you walk right into a line for security that is not organized at all and a complete mess. We finally made it thru and had time to catch the plane (which happened to be delayed about 10 min). The flight was ok other than the 2 kids in front of us that were loud and annoying. We finally made it to Utah with snow on the ground and about 24 degrees.
Day 2 - We got up, Nick went shopping with his uncle and I went shopping with my sister in law. And it was snowing - just a mist snow though. But for someone who lives in Florida it was cool Then we had to finish wrapping presents and get the car packed to drive to Wyoming. I didn't get to see much when we got there as it had already gotten dark. My sister in law's sister has a ranch that is quite awesome. They have cows, horses and several houses with a lake in between. Dinner that night was beef ribs, scalloped potatoes and then plenty of desserts. A few of the kids have birthdays this week so they get to pick their meal. I understand we will be eating good the whole time we are here. Oh, did I say if is freezing outside. Low 20s or below. And I am in one of the houses past the lake so I have to walk in the snow, around cows to get to my house. So far we have had a lot of fun,
Day 3 - got up to scrambled eggs, bacon and homemade biscuits. And I had to walk from my house to the main house, past the cows, thru the snow in the cold. Just hung around chatting for a bit, then took a trip to the one main grocery store in town that is also a hardware store, paint store, hunting store, fishing store and just about anything else you would possibly need. So back at the house I tried to take a nap. However, the cows that hang out by my house decided to try to eat part of it. Seems they were right by my room munching on the wall, the deck and anything else near by. Too hard to sleep. Tonight we had Chili with rice. Then one of the kids made bananas foster. Yum. The kids had tried to make a small skate ring on the lake. My son was actually helping shovel snow. While I was napping, I heard they tried to sled and a few of the kids, mine included, ended up in part of the lake. Mostly feet, but they got wet and it was quite cold. At least he'll have a story to tell. Done updating for now.
Merry Christmas Eve and Merry Christmas tomorrow. May you be blessed.

2009-12-21T22:59:00.002-05:00

I woke up this morning and realized I did not do my blog last night. I didn't really have anything to say anyway. Went to work and got done what I could. Came home and had a quick dinner. My friend, Gail, came over to get a key and see what to do to take care of the cats. Then we had to take Sugar to my friend, Debra's house. Sugar will be fine once she settles down and the dogs get used to each other. Then back home to pack. As of now, I am just waiting for a couple things in the dryer and then I am done. I have been coughing quite a bit today and I hope it doesn't turn into more than just a bit of a cold. I don't want to get sick while I am on vacation. We leave tomorrow and we are both so excited. I saw the weather today and it said low of 22 high of 25. I would say it is quite cold in Utah. For those that keep up with my blog I will try to update as often as I can. We will be going to Wyoming for Christmas and I don't know what kind of internet access they have. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas with family and friends.

2009-12-19T22:39:00.002-05:00

Lots to do today. Started some wash to get clothes ready to pack. Started looking a gifts I have to bring with me and how I was going to pack them or bring them on the plane with me. Nick is basically packed and I haven't even started with my clothes yet. I think we got the gift stuff down. I think I will get most of it together tomorrow since I don't have anything else to do. It takes a lot of figuring out for me when it comes to packing. I guess I just need to bring what I have to have and leave it at that. Thing is, I don't really know what I have to have and I don't really have winter clothes. I hope my stuffy nose goes away in the next 2 days. I really don't want to fly with a stuffed up head. I am definately looking forward to getting away. I can't believe it is 3 days away. It seemed like so long ago I started planning and thought it would never get here. I hope all my family and friends have a great Christmas. I will try to keep up with my blog as I can but I don't know what kiind of computer access I'll have for some of the time. Anyway - off to bed to get a good night sleep.

2009-12-18T23:15:00.002-05:00

Yay, Friday. It was a pretty good day. Boss brought us breakfast - always a good start. I was anxious to get it over with though. I need to start working on packing. I was feeling good today. Still a little icky stuff in my nose but doing better. My port site doesn't hurt unless it gets touched or my shirt rubs on it. I wasn't even very tired today. We went to Olive Garden for dinner as I had a gift card from a friend. Then bargain shopped. Ready to call it a night and head to bed. Sleeping in tomorrow.

2009-12-17T22:53:00.002-05:00

Wow, tomorrow is Friday. I had a good Thursday. Worked hard today and have most things in order for next week. Made supper when I got home and started falling asleep watching tv. Managed to stay awake and now I'm ready for bed. Port area is still a little tender and I have to be careful on how I use my right arm. I can't reach over to my other arm near the shoulder area but that will pass. Not near as sore as my chest has been. Speaking of, my chest is clearing up. Still a small area of redness with goo but other than that it's doing good. My nose is just a tad stuffy but clearing up. I am certain that by Monday or Tuesday I will be in good shape for my trip. Nick packed his suitcase last night. I think he is ready to go. He has most everything ready, since it's not that cold here he can pack his warm stuff. I guess I have to get started on mine. I'll be doing that this weekend.

2009-12-16T22:51:00.002-05:00

Middle of the week. I slept ok last night, better than I thought. My port site didn't hurt as much as I thought it would. It was a cool morning to get things started. I was able to get quite a bit done today which makes me feel better about taking time off. My port site was a little sore but not so much that it bothered me too much. We had birthday celebrations today and Cathi made quite a spread of desserts. Just what we needed after our breakfast 2 days ago. We had about 5 things to choose from, pound cake, peanut butter brownies, ice cream sandwiches, chips, spinach/artichoke dip.......I could probably not eat for another 3 days and not notice. My cold seems to be better. I did not wake up congested this morning. I was clear most of the day, only getting a bit stuffy a few times. Had some soup when I got home. All in all it was a good day. I am glad only 2 days left in the week. Next week is Utah.

2009-12-15T22:34:00.002-05:00

My day started by seeing a beautiful, big rainbow as I dropped off Nick at school. It was a slow morning full of anxiety, in anticipation of my doctor appointment today. Ok, so my appt was at 11:30, so I get there at 11:20. My sister-in-law met me there. We had a nice hour long visit in the waiting room. So I finally go back to the room around 12:30. Wondering how the surgeon was going to remove my port in the office, when I had to have surgery to have it put in. So she gives me a shot of local anesthetic, which starts to hurt after a few seconds. She had to stop a minute then shoot me with more. It was not very comfortable as she was pushing on my chest, moving things around. I don't know if she was trying to move the medicine around or loosen up the port. So, on to cutting and then snippng stitches. Ouch. I could feel some of that. She had to give me an extra boost of meds. Took a little bit to get the stitches out, then she had to pull out the port. I could feel my chest being pulled and tugged. Ok, so now to stitch me up. I think there was about 6 stitches. And I could feel each time she stuck me and started a stitch. So another shot of meds. By the 4th one or so, I could still feel it, one more shot of meds. Finally done with that - and a couple steri strips and I'm done. And I don't have to go back to see here for 6 months. Back at work and feeling okay. A little sore but okay. My cold seemed a bit better today, not as congested. I am hoping to be on the mend soon. I definately deserve a vacation. 6 days to Utah.

2009-12-14T20:45:00.002-05:00

I am blogging early tonight since I am not feeling well and ready for bed. I am a bit congested. The throat isn't as sore but my head is full. We had a great breakfast at work this morning. It was a lot of fun eating great food and sharing gifts. It was hard to make it thru the day as I really needed some rest. Funny how I can go thru months of treatment with no immune system and not get sick but now I catch a cold with no problem. I guess it is really a good thing because I would not want to be sick during treatment. I guess things have a way of going the way they should. I just hope it is gone before I leave for Utah. 8 days. I go to the doctor tomorrow to have my port removed. Can't wait to get it out, but not excited about it being done in the office. I hope all will go well. I am ready for bed and hope to get rid of this cold.

2009-12-13T22:22:00.002-05:00

Sunday is over. I guess I slept ok last night. I took some meds and it took me a little bit to fall asleep. Then I had some very strange dreams. Can't even explain them. I did sleep in till about 11, with the exception of getting up to let the dog out. Ran a couple errands then hung out on the couch. And my son - the best kid in the world - made me some homemade chicken soup. My throat was still a bit sore this morning. It is getting better but I had some soup and sore throat drops. I didn't take a nap, which I should have. Did 4 loads of laundry and then made a bundt cake for work tomorrow. We are having a breakfast and I borrowed my sister-in-law's Christmas tree bundt pan. Other than my sore throat and feeling a little under the weather, I am doing good. My chest is continuing to heal. I see the surgeon on Tues so I'll see what she thinks. Starting to get things together for our trip. Only 9 more days. This will be a busy week as we have things to do and things to get ready. The weekend will be here before we know it.

2009-12-12T23:15:00.002-05:00

A rainy Saturday. I got to sleep in a little bit. We went to church to make some crafts. They turned out pretty cool. Then a few quick errands and back home. I had to take a nap before my party. I started watching the Army/Navy game and fell asleep on the couch while my son cleaned out the pantry. OMG - it looks awesome. He threw out all the old, out dated stuff and then organized everything in there. Have I said lately what a great kid I have. Went to my work Christmas Party and had a good time. Good food, good friends and a fun time out. I did have a bit of a sore throat today and a couple of people said I felt a little warm but I didn't seem to have a fever. I will still take some medicine before going to bed and hope I can stop whatever may be starting. At least I have one more day of rest to try to get rid of it. Love to all and enjoy the rest of the weekend.

2009-12-11T22:15:00.002-05:00

It has been a long Friday. Work seemed to take forever to end. It was a quiet day as several people were out. It was quite chilly today and some people needed the heat on at work. I ended up having to turn the air on as they had the heat up to 74. I have to say, I am able to tolerate this medicine ok and I haven't broken out in sweats but I definately can feel the heat or get warm. Even walking in a store I have to take my jacket off. Other than that I don't really notice any other effects. I get to sleep in a little bit tomorrow. Have to wrap a few gifts and try to box them up to send to Utah. 11 days left - can't wait. My son counted his pennies in his big Mountain Dew bottle and ended up with $30. We took them up to the coin counter so he can get some cash. See, pennies do pay off. Oh well, done for the night. Have a good evening.

2009-12-10T22:58:00.001-05:00

The week is almost over. Today was ok, nothing special. Got a lot done at work and I'm pretty well caught up. It was a bit cold outside today but I was definately getting warn inside. It's bad when you have to turn your desk fan on when it's 50 degrees outside. Starting Saturday it will be a busy few days, which is good because it will make the time go faster and closer to vacation. Only 12 more days. I wish I was a little more healed but you never know what 12 days can do. I am slowly feeling better and know it's just a matter of time before I am back to normal. And by that time I'll be ready to start looking into reconstruction. Still trying to get into the Christmas spirit. I'm sure when I am in Utah, in the cold, with snow and family things will all fall into place. Well, off to bed and hoping for sweet dreams.

2009-12-09T23:01:00.002-05:00

Middle of the week blues. Looking forward to the weekend. Tired today and needed a nap when I got home - but had to cut my son's hair and ran a few errands. My chest is a little sore today, almost feels a little swollen but doesn't look bad. I'll have to keep an eye on it to make sure it continues to heal and does not get irritated. I meet with my surgeon in a few days so if it needs checking, she can do it. Only 13 days left for vacation. My niece told me it was 5 degrees this morning and has not gotten above 25 all week. Ok - that is cold. Not sure I have enough warm clothes for that kind of weather. Although, I have been feeling quite warm on occasion due to my meds. Not sweating warm yet, but I do get a little uncomfortable. And as I watch the news it is indicating it is 70 degress outside right now. Wow. Time for bed - enjoy the rest of your week.

2009-12-08T22:56:00.002-05:00

An ugly start to a Tuesday. My son wouldn't get up so it got ugly for first thing in the morning. Had a pretty good day at work, but by 3:00 I was ready to call it a day. Any way - left at 5 and came home for a short nap. Had to take the dog to my friend's house for them to meet and to meet my friend's dogs. She is going to watch my dog for moe while we are in Utah. What a great friend. It is such a big help as it will save me some money and she is thrilled to help me out. The dogs played a little bit - got along fine and it doesn't seem like there will be any problems. I have great friends. I appreciate everything they do to help me out. I hope I can get a good night sleep and my son will get up tomorrow. Otherwise I may bring up a glass of water to throw in his face - that should wake him up.

2009-12-07T22:26:00.002-05:00

The start of another week. Pretty good day. I did get a little tired. I think I am anxious for vacation to get here. Only 15 more days. Got somewhat caught up today, which is good. I don't want to have too much haning out there when I take off. I could have taken a nap when I got home but Nick and I ran a couple quick errands, which weren't productive. He's not feeling well and I am just kind of blah. Trying to get in the Christmas spirit and enjoy the celebration. My port site has been itchy the last day or so and since the swelling has gone down, the port is right at the surface so it's a little irritating. I have to wait until next Tues to get it out. Oh, I have been forgetting to mention that my hair is growing back quickly, however I have noticed lately that my eyebrows and eye lashes seem to have thinned out again. Kind of weird. I can see small hair growing in my eyebrows, but only a few long hair. Didn't think I would still be losing hair. Oh well, I guess it could be worse, I could still be bald, although that really wasn't such a bad thing. This too shall pass. Just want to say I have great friends that come thru for me and I am very thankful for their help, support and willingness to make things a little easier.

2009-12-06T21:39:00.003-05:00

Happy Sunday. Another day to sleep in and relax. Didn't get up until around 11. I really need to stop sleeping in so late. Went for a bagel with my son, shopped at TJ Maxx, then to Beall's and last stop, PetSmart. My son was looking for a gift for his cousin, which he found and it was under $5.00. Hope to make some chicken salad sandwiches for an afternoon tea I was going to with some girlfriends. Went to Denise's house and met up with the girls for tea, shortbread cookies, scones and gift exchange. It was a lot of fun and great to share a few hours with the girls just chatting. I have such great friends. Debra offered to watch our dog while we are in Utah, which is great because it will save me some money and Sugar will have fun playing with other dogs instead of being in the kennel. Not as tired this evening (maybe because I slept in late this morning). Had a good day and feel great. And 16 more days till our trip.

2009-12-05T23:03:00.003-05:00

What a Saturday. Woke up at 7 and took the dog out, went back to bed, woke up around 9 and thought of getting out of bed but decided to go back to sleep. Woke up at 11:30. Then just watched a little tv with my son and about 1 went back to bed until 3:45, just in time to get ready for the SEC game - UF v. Alabama. What a good game. I was cheering on Bama of course. As a Seminole fan, it was great to see the Gators finally lose, especially a championship game. And I can't believe Tebow was crying. Anyway, as I hung out on the couch, I decided not to put any covering on my chest (in the way of gauze) so that air could get to it. Seemed to work out pretty good. There is just a little bit of goo just in the center crease where my incision is. I have 2 weeks till vacation so I am hoping it will clear up. A very lazy day today and a great day of football. I really hope Bama can make it all the way and win the National Championship. I hope I don't sleep my Sunday away.

2009-12-04T22:42:00.002-05:00

Yay Friday. Cold and rainy. Good day, was happy when the work day ended. Took a nap on the couch when I got home. Nick and I did a little shopping then just hung out. Not sure what we'll do tomorrow but it is supposed to be cold and wet. Doing pretty good and arm does not seem to be bothering much today. Just taking each day - one at a time. Enjoy the weekend.

2009-12-03T23:08:00.003-05:00

A disappointing day. Started out good. I met with one of Nick's teachers. Had a good meeting and get him signed up for driver's ed next semister. Work was find this morning until I got a call from my surgeon's office. They had to change my appt from next Fri to the following Tues. Now I have to wait longer to have my port taken out. And she is leaving the office to open her own practice. I guess it just gives me more time to heal, but I hate to have to wait longer. I made an appt with my hair dresser for next Wed. If we don't cut it some, we'll play with it to see how I can style it for now. My arm was about the same today. I did not wear my sleeve but I had brought it with me. I ended up falling asleep on the couch when I got home for about an hour. So glad tomorrow is Friday and the weekend is around the corner. More time to rest and 2 more weeks till vacation.

2009-12-02T22:19:00.002-05:00

It was a nasty day today. Lots of rain, thunderstorms and tornado warnings. I wish people knew how to drive in the rain. A few raindrops and people get stupid. Anyway, work went okay. I noticed that my upper arm looked a little swollen and felt a little thicker than usual. It didn't feel heavy as it has in the past or as the therapist indicated it would. When I got home I put my sleeve on (it puts pressure on your arm to keep the fluid down). I wonder if getting back to normal at work has had an effect on it. I don't feel like I do anything different, however I have been carrying more files that usual lately. Maybe I should stop doing that and see if that makes a difference. I sure don't want to start having a problem with my arm and don't want it to start getting swollen. If it doesn't get better I will have to stop by and see Marilyn (therapist) and have her look at it. I will need to wear my sleeve and wrist gauntlet when I fly to Utah and most of the time I am there due to the change in altitude. Any, a little tired tonight and was falling asleep on the couch so I guess it's time for bed. Hope the rain is finished.

2009-12-01T23:23:00.002-05:00

Good day. We are getting lots of rain. Yard was cut today so the rain will do it some good. I was feeling a bit warm today. Not necessarily hot flashes but I was warm. Had to keep my fan on most of the day. Trying to get things in order at work for my vacation. I don't want to leave too much for others to have to do for me. I feel like there is alot to get in order before I go, both at work and home. I am feeling pretty good and haven't taken any naps the last 2 days. I really need to get to bed earlier though so I don't run myself down by the end of the week. Just taking each day, one at a time and taking care of what ever comes up. Not much more you can do.

2009-11-30T22:46:00.002-05:00

Pretty good day for Monday, expecially after a 4 day weekend. I was a bit tired today but got thru the day and didn't even take a nap when I got home. We watched a movie and then ate dinner. Just hung out. Two days into the new medicine and feeling ok so far. Still healiing and hoping it will clear up soon. Counting down the days to our vacation. Looking forward to it. Right now feeling pretty good and getting some strength back. Need to start walking again. Just hoping to get thru the week. December here we come.

2009-11-29T22:14:00.002-05:00

Another great day. Sorry that the time off has to come to an end. We slept in, then we went to St. Francis Wildlife, which is a non-profit agency to help injured wildlife. My son is considering doing something for them as his Eagle project. We had to negate the animal shelter idea as it was getting too involved and complicated. It looks like he may be making some cages for some of the animals. Then I dropped him off at the park to help some of the scouts with orienteering. I took a nap in between watching the Dolphin game. Both my teams lost this weekend. When my son came home, he started dinner. What a great kid. He cooked a couple mini hamburgers and a few small steaks we had. I made some asparagus (for me). We watched some football and a movie on tv. I started my new medication today and so far, no problems. I know it is only the first day. I was telling Nick that there may be times I get hot flashes and mood swings, which I explained what those were - he thought that was cool. I told him one minute I could be cold, then next sweating. And one minute I could be laughing, the next crying. I told him when that happens, he better say - mom I am going to my room. I hope I don't have to deal with too much. But - it is what it is and I guess I will just have to deal with whatever. The area of healing on my chest has really gone down quite a bit. Glad to see it is healing, I just wish it was quicker. I guess when I look back at it I will say, gee that wasn't very long. Ha. Anyway, the work week starts tomorrow. Only 23 more days till we leave for Utah so I hope the next 3 weeks come and go quickly. I am so thankful for my son and am very proud on how he has matured. I'll take credit for that.

2009-11-28T22:39:00.002-05:00

Great day, with one major exception. The Gators beat the Noles. I knew it would be tough but I thought it would at least be a fight. Not even close. Other than that, we slept in, got up around 11 or so. My son made me breakfast, scrambled eggs. Hung out watching tv until close to game time, then went to my brother's. Came home and my son helped make dinner. He made the chicken and I made the rice. He is turning into quite the cook and a big helper. And I didn't even have to ask. We watched G.I. Joe tonight. Had a good evening. My chest is getting quite a bit better. It is really just the very center area where my incision is. I am really hoping it clears up completely in the next few weeks. Only 3 weeks left of work, then vacation.

2009-11-27T22:12:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday. It was nice having the day off. My black friday started at 9:00am. Well I was awake at 2 and then 6 when my son woke up and I let the dog out. He wanted to go shopping but we both fell back asleep. Didn't get up and going until 9. We went to the shoe store where he found a pair of shoes the other day, then stopped and had a bagel for breakfast. Off to one of the malls to return a pair of shoes I got the other day and to look for another pair. Got things accomplished with little aggrivation however some people are just rude. They walk in front of you with saying excuse me, they are just rude. No manners. We made tacos and cookies and watched Transformers. Had a good day and evening. I did take a little nap today which was nice. It was a really nice day spent with my son.

2009-11-26T22:39:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving. I have a lot to be thankful for. My son, family, friends, health, employment, our service men and women; I could go on but I think it would take up most of my blog. It was a great day. Got up to make sure my son was up and ready to go run this morning. Went back to bed until 11. Started on the stuffing. My son came home and made brownies. We went to my sister-in-law's family for lunch. Had a great meal and shared time with family. I really needed a nap but when we got home we watched tv and just relaxed. We snacked a little for dinner. I was feeling pretty good and not really hurting. Things are still healing. I am hoping it will be much better over the next 3 weeks when we leave for Utah. My son wants to go out shopping early tomorrow morning, but I am not sure I am up to the crowds and people fighting over things. I guess we'll see if I can make it up in the morning. I am usually up with the dog anyway. I hope everyone had a nice thanksgiving with family and friends. There is a lot to be thankful for.

2009-11-25T22:05:00.003-05:00

Wow. This is my 200th post. I can't believe it. I am amazed that I have had that much to talk about. (no comments from my brothers.) Today was a long day at work. Most of us thought we would get off early - will that didn't happen. I was tired most of the day and have been ready to go to bed for the past hour. Problem is, I was talking with a friend of mine and next think you know it's almost 11. Time for bed. We went to the shoe store shortly after I got home then got some pizza. Nick went to bed shortly after we got home. He has to be up early tomorrow to do the Turkey Trot. It is a 1 mile walk, 5k, 10k or 15k run to benefit local charities. My brother and most of my sister in law's family is going. I don't think I am ready to take that on yet. Maybe next year. Anyway, I get to sleep in and then I will need to make some stuffing for Turkey dinner tomorrow. I hope everyone has a great turkey day and makes new memories with family and friends. I am very thankful for my family and friends. I am thankful for my job, my doctors and having the strength to share the holiday spirit. On a side note, my thoughts go to my mom today. Today, 11/25, Wed before thanksgiving, 17 years ago, we had to say good-bye to our mom. I really miss her. I know she watches over us and I feel at times that I have turned into mom, but for the most part, that is not such a bad thing. Love you mom.

2009-11-24T22:48:00.002-05:00

A Tuesday that feels like a Thursday. Two reasons. 1) Tomorrow is like a Friday at work since I am off Thursday and Friday. 2) I have been really tired today since driving to work to the time I got home. Thursday is typically the day I start to get tired. I had to take a short rest before going to a meeting tonight. The meeting lasted way to long. If I had not already said I was going I would have stayed home and slept. I had some business to tend to when I got home (after 9:00), which is why I am still up now. With any luck we may be able to go home early tomorrow. My chest was hurting a little bit today. Although I think it is getting better. I guess I can sleep in a little bit tomorrow since I don't have to get Nick to school. It's way past bedtime so off I go.

2009-11-23T22:21:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday. Not too bad of a day for Monday. Not a bad day at work. Other than our system was down this afternoon, so we had to find something else to do this afternoon. I didn't seem to be as tired today, no nap when I got home. Seem to be doing ok right now and chest is feeling good. Glad only 2 days left in the work week. It's been a relatively quite evening.

2009-11-22T22:10:00.002-05:00

No surprise for a Sunday. Slept in. Went and got a bagel, dropped Nick off to help a fellow scout with an Eagle project, back home and tried to keep busy so I wouldn't go to sleep. That lasted until about 2:00. Football was boring so of course I fell asleep. Only for about an hour though. Nick came home around 3 or so. Went to a friend's house to drop off some scout popcorn and visited a bit. Been watching the AMA's. Great entertainment. But I really hate when big stars lip sing at award shows. Come on people - show that you can really sing. Felt pretty good today. Not too tired and chest is looking better. It doesn't hurt as much and not as much moisture. I'm looking forward to a 3 day work week. Counting down the days to vacation. It's almost time for a haircut, well actually a shaping. Trying to let it go as long as I can before I leave.

2009-11-21T21:59:00.003-05:00

What a wasted day. I had to get up early to get Nick to school to work the FSU game. Came home and tried to stay up. After about 30 minutes I decided I needed to just go back to bed. So at 9:30 I went back to bed - did not get up until 1:30. Yes, 1:30. I didn't think the FSU game was on but when I got up, I found it. So I at least got to watch the last 1/2 of the game. Good game it was. Noles won in the last few minutes of the game. That makes us Bowl eligible for the 36th consecutive year. Go Noles. So I picked up Nick, we went to eat, went shopping a little then back home. I felt pretty good most of the day. I guess you can't feel bad when you have slept most of the day. My chest looks a little better today. Each day it should get better and better. The swelling has gone down a lot and the redness area is minimal. Still have to wear gauze but not as much. There is hope that by the end of the month the soreness and red areas will be almost gone. I hope tomorrow I can be a little more productive than today.

2009-11-20T22:49:00.002-05:00

Yay, it's Friday. 2 days of nothing but rest. Today was ok. Didn't get much sleep so I was a little tired this morning. Long day at work, but not too bad. Had lunch with my friend from work, then we had November birthday celebration. After work, fell asleep on the couch, AGAIN. My body still gets tired and needs it's rest. I can see a little change in my chest, that the sore area is shrinking a little. I guess it is slowly healing and possibly by next week it will be soooo much better. I am sure eventually it will get back to normal. Well, post surgery normal. Anyway, hoping to have a restful weekend.

2009-11-19T22:41:00.002-05:00

It was a very long day. I got up okay but by 10:00 I was ready to fall asleep at my desk. I had to snap myself out of it a few times. I felt okay other than that. I had lunch today with 2 of my girlfriends. It was nice to visit but it was too short. Was a slow afternoon as I was still trying to fight the zzzzz's. Finally left at 5 and tried not to take a nap when I got home. I relaxed a little but I was trying to fight the desire to close my eyes so I wouldn't be up late tonight or at least when I finally went to bed I would be tired and could fall asleep easily. I hope I am not coming down with a cold or something as I am feeling a little something coming on. Sneezing, not quite a sore throat but an odd feeling. Hoping I can just talk myself out of it because I really don't want to have to deal with that. Anyway, chest did okay today. It is still a little uncomfortable but not anything like my underarm was. I'm just taking it day by day. Glad tomorrow is Friday and hope I can make it thru the day.

2009-11-18T22:22:00.003-05:00

So the experiment last night at bedtime - don't laugh as it was suggested by my radiologist. I put medicine on my chest, then my gauze dressing, and then - saran wrap. Yep, I thought it was weird too. The doctor suggested it weeks ago and I thought he was crazy. So as I thought about it last night, as I had thought mini pads would work, why not try it. The plastic would keep the wetness away from my clothes. So when I woke up this morning, my shirt was soaking wet. Saran wrap - not a good solution. I really have to find something large enough to cover the whole area and be able to tape it to other areas. The tape is starting to irritate my skin even though it is skin sensitive paper tape. I wish it would just heal already so I don't have to come up with creative ways to cover my sore spots. Aside from all that, I was feeling pretty good today. I did take a nap when I got home today. I don't think it was my intention. I layed on the couch and fell asleep for about an hour. Glad there is only 2 more days in the work week.

2009-11-17T22:39:00.002-05:00

I will have to say that my bright idea of using mini pads as gauze dressing - not such a bright idea. It seemed like the perfect solution but it didn't work quite as well as I thought it would. Back to the usual stuff. I wish it would just heal already. Been feeling ok and not quite as tired. We'll see how things go on Friday - since that is my usual exhaustion day. Since there is no treatments this week I wonder if I will be tired by the end of the week. I got my appointment for my port removal - December 11th. Wish I didn't have to wait so long but surgeon only does them on Friday. She is off this week, next week is Thanksgiving and she is in surgery the following Friday so I have to wait 3 weeks. At least it will be done before I go on vacation. So now I have to figure out how to recover my finances from all the medical bills. From surgeries, to medication, to chemo treatments. I've had some help but you just can't cover everything. I think our trip to Utah is our Christmas this year. Which is fine with me. I certainly don't need anything. Besides, my brother told me I wasn't allowed to buy anything else for the house unless I get rid of a lot more stuff. It's the simple pleasures in life that are important and the memories you make that are special. Each day becomes an opportunity for a new memory. Take advantage of each opportunity.

2009-11-16T22:05:00.002-05:00

Different for a Monday - I seemed to have felt fine today. I had to get up early so I could make some Monkey Bread for a breakfast we were having at work today. One of the girls got married a couple of weeks ago so we had a breakfast shower for her. I didn't seem to have any trouble today, other than I was getting a little bored and wanted something else to do. I was actually able to take a full our lunch in the lunch room and read some of my book. It was different for a Monday not to leave at 1:00 for the day. I called the surgeon's office today to schedule a time to get my port out. Surgeon is out this week and with next week being Thanksgiving, looks like I'll have to wait 2 weeks. By the time I got home I was a little tired so I took a rest, never really falling asleep, just rested. I wish my chest would heal so I can stop having to wear gauze pads. Hey, I just had an idea - I wonder if a mini pad would work. Shouldn't stick to the wound and shouldn't leak. LOL. It would save me money from buying gauze. Since my chemo, one of the side effects (I consider a perk) is it could effect my monthly cycle so I haven't had to worry about it for quite a while. (ok, for some that might be TMI) but I have a bunch of them so why not try it. I guess I couldn't really put the stickie part on the top, it would stick to my clothes. Duh. Ok, well I will update you on that matter. Hoping to get a good night sleep and feel good in the morning.

2009-11-15T22:11:00.002-05:00

I think I figured it out. Why I haven't been feeling well. It all makes sense. I go thru 6 months of chemo, surgery and radiation and feel great, most of the time. I have no problems for the most part with the majority of my treatment and surgery. And then I finish. That's when I start to feel like crap. Still not feeling up to par again today. Hung out once again on the couch, waiting to hear from Nick that he is home from camping. Had just a little bit to eat today. When I picked Nick up we went to get some dinner. I didn't eat very much and didn't feel very good. All I had was soup and salad but couldn't eat much salad. I am hoping it is just an adjustment to all the chemicals I have had going thru my body and all the radiation buring my insides. Maybe I am going thru some kind of withdrawal or something. My chest is slowly healing but it is healing. I hope the next week or so I will be energized and ready for December. It's time for me to get back on my diet - or healthy eating, so I can lose some of the weight I have gained. The doctor told me I had to feed my body and with the steroids I was taking it was contributing to my eating. I am hoping I can easily get back to where I was before all this started. I guess the stress had something to do with it too. I certainly don't want to wait for my reconstruction surgery to have to get help losing the fat, although the more fat, I guess the bigger boobs I can get. LOL. Just kidding. Well, hoping to get a good night sleep and feel better tomorrow. I'd hate to start calling in sick now, when I have made it thru all this just fine.

2009-11-14T21:54:00.002-05:00

Unusual day today. I wasn't feeling very well and have been tired all day. I saw a little bit of football (Noles won), but have been sleeping a good part of the day. Managed to go to the store and get me some shrimp and fruit. Felt a little dizzy at the store. Came home and had some orange juice and some water. Shrimp turned out good. Had some cherries and made some mini chocolate chip cookies. Feel like a headache coming on so i'm headed to bed. Not sure what it is, just feel a little weird today.

2009-11-13T21:52:00.002-05:00

What a long day. A usual Friday. Tired by 10, ready to take a nap by noon and hard to stay awake much past 2. Finally made it to 5 and it was a good thing I had dinner plans otherwise I would have come home and fallen asleep for a couple hours. I met my friend Rebecca at Carrabba's for dinner. It was nice to get out for grown up time. I even treated myself to a Margarita. Rebecca brought me a cute blue tall vase that said "Life is good" on it. Very cute - Thanks Rebecca. Nick is camping in Georgia in the cold as I get a weekend to myself to take care of me. My skin is doing ok - not healing quick enough for me. It makes a mess of my clothes. I think I have been thru a case of gauze and paper tape by now. Football and naps this weekend. Doesn't get much better than that.

2009-11-12T22:12:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it. Today was a first. I knew it would eventually happen I just didn't think it would happen this soon. BAD HAIR DAY!!! UGH. I can't do a thing with it. It is definately growing quick and curly. Still not long enough to style so to speak. Not quite sure what to do with it. Got up this morning feeling good and ready to start the day. Decent day at work with minimal issues. A little tired near the end of the day but managed to get over it. Ran errands with my son when I got home and then we watched a couple of our shows. He had to finish packing his stuff for camping this weekend - headed to Georgia. A little sore from the radiation. It is starting to look a little like my underarm did but not near the pain. It sure doesn't look very good but I am sure in a short time it will be back to the way it was. Other than that I seem to be doing well. It was nice having a day off during the week. Friday is here tomorrow and ready for the weekend.

2009-11-11T23:50:00.002-05:00

The day after. Up late again. I woke up this morning a few times - can't seem to sleep in fully without being woken up a few times. Of course there is the dog, and forgotten alarms. Can't I just get a full 8 hours with no interuptions. I don't think that day will ever come and I can't say I can remember when I last had a full 8 hours. Usually 6-7 is enough for me. Then again there are naps, which is good. Ok, so I woke up this morning, for the last time, and felt like I was missing something. No, not the obvious. I did not have anymore bands on my wrists. It was a pleasant change. As I was in the shower I was thinking I had to opportunity to wear a bracelet today. Then I thought, nope, it is the first day without anything on my wrists, I want to enjoy each minute of it for awhile. Plenty of time for bracelets. Nick and I actually hung around at home most of the morning. He was supposed to march in the Veteran's Day parade with ROTC but due to weather it got cancelled. Turned out that it could have gone on anyway. Sad to say we did not get to honor the Vets with the annual parade. However, I would like to say thank you to all the service men and women who have served and who currently serve our country. So, my son has been begging me for the past 2 weeks to take him to the Japanese restaurant but I have told him no, mostly due to cost and there was no special occasion to go. So this afternoon we were out and about doing a few errands and he gave me the option of 4 places to go eat. They were all in different parts of town. The closest was my usual favorite (Sonny's). One of them was the Japanese place. Funny how he gave me the choices but he ended up making the decision much to my instance of a No. Problem was, he was driving and I ended up giving in since it was kind of a celebration. So we went to the Japanese place and actually had a fun time. In my indirect kind of way - I let him feel like he gets his way. I feel great today and only have good things to look forward to. I am truely blessed with all the prayers, love and support thru all of this. Thank you so much for everyone who has in someway been a part of it all.

2009-11-10T23:31:00.003-05:00

CELEBRATION!!!! Post 185 - and LAST CHEMO TODAY. Wow, it is finally here. Hard to believe that 6 months has gone by. Six months ago - almost to the day I found out I had breast cancer. What a blow. What do I do now. Doctor appointment after doctor appointment, trying to understand all that was going on and all that was ahead of me - how confusing and decision after decision. It was all so overwhelming. Looking at 6 months of crap ahead of me. Too much to think about and how will I ever make it thru. People advised me to just take one thing at a time and not to look at the whole picture. I think that is probably the best advise I took. Tackle first things first. The rest will come when it's time. Looking back, it is hard to believe all that I have gone thru and all that I have conquered. The day went pretty well, other than slow this morning as I waited with anticipation of going to my treatment. I was delivered another beautiful vase of flowers from my friend Gail, her husband and son, Kevin. How thoughtful. I left at 1:00 so I could stop by the radiologist. I really like him. Very nice, funny guy. He said things are healing and look fine. He asked me about the antibiotic, which I finished this morning. He said since the chemo slows healing, it will take another week or two for things to really start getting better. He also said that it was a good choice for me to do them both together rather than waiting to do radiation last. I said to him - so I could have avoided all this buring if I had waited to do it after chemo? He smiled and said possibly, but I get a better reaction doing it this way which really lowers my risk of re-occurance, to what studies show, less than 10%. He also made a side comment, not sure how to take it, and said he would like to open a Valerie Gould cancer center. When I asked him why he just kind of blew it off. I'll take it as a positive comment. He asked if I had an appt already set up and I told him the end of December. He said he was thinking of taking the last week off, as well as the week before (my appt is the day after we get home from Utah) and he said, let's just make it the next week. Which works out good for me because I have to pick up the dog the day after we get home anyway. However, if anything comes up before then I just need to call him. So it must be good enough news that he can push me to Jan to see me again. Ok, so off to chemo. And I had to wait a bit for the doctor, but it was all good as it was going to be the last time for a while. Doctor came in and she checked things out. Things look good but heart rate was up a little (they had said that at the other doctor earlier too). She said it just be from the steroids, as they really aren't good for you. She had lowered them earlier on when I did not have any reaction to the drugs. Hopefully the heart rate will go down now that I am done. She looked at me and said she had good feelings about me. I told her thanks and started to tear up. She gave me a big hug and she said that I had really done very well. A lot of people are winers, some just have a hard time, but I came in and was positive about things and just took on what needed to be done. I told her I really didn't have much choice. She said true, but the way I have handled things has made a big difference. She gave me my prescription for Tamoxifin, which is the drug I have to take daily for the next 5 years minimum, possibly 7 to prevent possibly future growth of cancer cells. Downside - it will possibly give me hot flashes. No way to really prevent it. I am to start after Thanksgiving. So on to the chemo room. Wouldn't you know it, after just a few short minutes and moving around - my port worked. And it didn't hurt much at all when I got stuck. Soo off we go for the start of the last treatment. My sister-in-law came to share in the final hoo-rah. There was a black gentleman, probably not quite middle age, maybe my age or even a little younger who was having a bit of a time with his treatment. I felt really bad for him. I one point he got up to use the restroom, walking quite weak, and you could hear him in the bathroom getting sick - several times. All I could think of was how blessed I was to have endured what I have without having to deal with that. When he came back in you could see what a hard time he was having even just getting back to his chair. Poor thing. I finished my treatment, got a cute certificate indicating I was a star and headed home. It was a bit after 5. My son started taking of my bands one by one. A total of 19. Wow. Then we started to try to see how we could put them together and lay them out to make a ribbon. We'll work on it. My eyes were getting heavy so he watched tv while I layed on the couch. I did not wake up until 7:30. Whew, the day must have taken a lot out of me. We watched tv and somewhere around 9 realized we were hungry. Off to the store and got some chicken. What a big celebration for my last day. That's why I am posting so late. Oh, I forgot to mention - my office manager got me a gift - it was a plaque that said Miracles can happen to those who believe in them, along with a congratulations card. I have had so much love and support thru all of this which gives me the strength and courage to get past this. I got the ok from the oncologist to schedule an appt with the surgeon to remove my port. I don't have to see the oncologist again until 1/21 (after the chest x-ray/ct scan), I don't have to see the radiologist until 1/4, and I am scheduled to see the surgeon for my 3 month follow-up 12/15. So, I am on my way to healing and can just go about my daily business for a while. It has been a journey to say the least and a definate life changing event. I will still blog as I go thru the healing and keep everyone updated on my progress. I thank God for my many blessings, family and friends included. I love you guys.

2009-11-09T22:29:00.002-05:00

Wow, less than 24 hours to go. Today started off pretty rough. My son wouldn't get up for school and by the time I yelled at him long enough to get up, we had about 10 minutes to get him there without being late. I got to work with 2 minutes to spare. Tomorrow he'll get water in the face or I'll pull him off the bed by his legs. We also had upgrades to the computers this past weekend so of course there were glitches in the system this morning. Took a little while to get us up and running. By then it was time for lunch. Afternoon went by slow and wind and rain started a little by the time 5:00 came. A hurricane is brewing in the gulf and we are expected to get quite a bit of rain tonight thru possibly Wednesday. As long as my treatment tomorrow does not get cancelled. It has been a long time coming and I would drive thru a hurricane to make sure I got it done. Kind of like a postal worker, neither wind or snow or rain can keep them away. LOL. I guess that's an old line because they use pretty much any excuse these days to get out of delivering mail. Anyway, I seem to be healing ok. Hope the doc thinks so tomorrow. I'm ready to for bed early tonight. I will most likely be exhausted tomorrow, but ready to celebrate. Hope everyone makes it thru the rain with little disturbance. Hey, isn't rain considered a disturbance?? haha

2009-11-08T21:16:00.002-05:00

As you can see I am blogging early tonight. I am a bit tired and ready for bed, even though I have been resting most of the day. It doesn't take much for my eyes to close and me to dose off. My skin is starting to look better, except for the very center, which is were they were doing the last bit of radiation. I am sure that will start to heal in the next week or so. But the best news is that in less than 48 hours I will have completed my last chemo treatment. I can't wait. I know I have said that many times but it is quite exciting to be so close to the final treatment. Six months have come and gone (as will the next 6 I'm sure). I have my sights set on Thanksgiving and then Christmas vacation. I hope the next two days don't go by slow. I am sure with the anticipation of Tuesday, tomorrow will seem to take forever. Till then - have a good night.

2009-11-07T22:59:00.003-05:00

Lazy Saturday. Slept in a little bit but had to take the dog to the vet. She is not very fond of going. Funny how she only goes there once a year but as soon as we get in the parking lot she starts shaking. She has put on a little bit of weight but she is not over weight. My son just needs to stop giving her so many extra treats. Came home and watched the usual football and dosed on the couch. Had to pick up Nick from school from the Jacksonville trip. We stopped and had lunch. Ended up going to my brother's to hang out and watch the FSU game. I've been a little tired and can fall asleep if I laay on the couch. My eyes just seem to close. I'm still keeping an eye on my chest for swelling. Just when you think it's healing I'm not so sure. Doc will check it Tues and let me know. I just wish it would dry up more. Not to be gross, but it gets gooey and mosit so I have to keep it covered with gauze. Otherwise my shirts get wet and it sticks to me. I am sure eventually it will get better but the in-between stages suck. At least it doesn't hurt as bad as it did before. Oh well, one more day of rest, which I plan to do and enjoy.

2009-11-06T22:16:00.002-05:00

Another end to another week. Had a pretty good day but I was tired. Day started off with the boss bringing breakfast. The morning went by slow. I was ready for a nap by 10 or so (as usual lately). Made it to lunch, then the afternoon took forever. By 2 I was ready to fall asleep at my desk. The other attorney got us cookies treats this afternoon. 5:00 finally got here and I came home. I fell asleep on the couch for about an hour. Watched some tv and have been ready to go to bed for the past hour. My son is in Jacksonville watching the Blue Angels show so I have had a quiet night. My arm seems to be doing ok. I'm not sure if the swelling has gone down much but at least the underarm area is starting to heal and has stopped hurting so much. It's more pink than red. I'll stop by the doctor on Tuesday for him to check things and see how it's healing. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

2009-11-05T21:55:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to my brother. He is a young 50 year old today. Now I have 2 brothers that are 1/2 100 in age. And I am not too far behind. It was a good day today. A little longer than usual since I didn't have a radiation appt to go to. I went to lunch with some friends for a change. This morning I got a nice surprise at work I had flowers delivered to me from the shareholders congratulating me on the completion of my treatment. They were very pretty and I was very surprised. Made it thru the day - a little tired getting close to the end of the day. Went to share a birthday dinner with my brother. My son made him brownies, which were de-lish. I am looking forward to Friday and the weekend. As I sit here typing, I find it hard to believe that I am really done with all but one treatment. On Tuesday I think a big weight will be lifted off my shoulders and I will just colapse on the couch from exhaustion and emotion. Anyway, happy birthday bro - and thanks for being there for me and giving me the strength and support I've needed to tackle this. Love you.

2009-11-04T22:31:00.002-05:00

Wow. Post number 179 and my last radiation treatment today. I never thought it would get here. I am so glad that is over with. Now it is on to healing. I felt a little better today and I am hoping that another day of antibiotics kicking in will help me feel a bit better. It will be really weird tomorrow at 1:00 not having to leave work to go to an appointment. Gosh, what will I do with a full lunch hour. Maybe read a book or make up time at work. I got a certificate today that is a Certificate of Completion of Radiation Treatment. What an accomplishment. And I am down to just one band on my right arm, 18 on the left. It is really amazing to see how far I have come. It doesn't seem so at the time, you never think you will get to the end and you think it will take forever. Things just become so routine with your schedule that you don't think about it until you are done. What a great day. Maybe I can get a good night sleep tonight knowing I don't have anymore daily treatments. Bring on the weekend.

2009-11-03T22:19:00.002-05:00

What a day. Morning went fine. I had training this morning on MS Word, as we are going to be going to using Word instead of Word Perfect. I hate Word, but after training this morning, it at least makes a little more sense. Got back in time to head to treatment. There was no one there but I sure had to wait awhile. Had my second to last treatment then met with the doctor. He said I was healing however I was a little more red then last time and I am a bit swollen, which I knew. H thinks it may be the start of an infection but didn't think it got to that yet. He put me on an antibiotic for 7 days just in case. He wants me to stop by next week for him to take a look to see how it's doing. My regular follow up will be the end of Dec, but I will be going to see him weekly for a few weeks just to keep on top of things. I would hate to think that after all this time and no side effects for all I have been thru, that I would have a problem now. Back at work for a regular day. Had a scout meeting tonight that ran a little long. Other than that -doing ok. I am really hoping that in the next day or so I will be feeling much better and I will be able to notice some healing and changes from the effects of radiation. I really hope this is the worst of things.

2009-11-02T22:07:00.002-05:00

Well, let's see. Today we were both running late. First I couldn't get Nick to wake up, and then I had to quickly get a shower and ready for work. He was about 15 minutes late for school and me 10 minutes late for work. Great start for a Monday. I didn't sleep great. Hard time getting comfortable. Tried to catch up on as much work as I could. Left for treatment (thank goodness they didn't call to cancel). Told the tech I expected to finish on Wednesday since it was my last 2 to do. I got in and got out. It was a bit hard today trying to put my arm over my head because the skin has started to get a little tight and it hurt a bit. I got thru it. My arm had not been hurting as much today and I was able to deal with it most of the day. Parts of the entire area itches so it gets a little annoying. My neck is clearing up and starting to fade a bit. Ok, so off to chemo. The waiting room was busy but it was empty in the treatment room. Must have been a day for doctor visits. Well, it really hurt today getting the needle in my port. I think from the effects of radiation, even with the numbing cream I put on. And on top of that - of course we couldn't get the port to work after 15 minutes, so back to the arm. At least there is only left. The rest of things went fine and I was in and out without a problem. Came home and was not as tired as usual but I did just chill and not do too much. And as I get ready for bed, my dog and one of the cats are curled up together in my legs on the couch. They are such great leg warmers. Let's hope for a good night sleep and a quick Tuesday.

2009-11-01T21:14:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that it is the 1st of November. I feel like I am still back in April at the start of all this. I never thought I would get this far, this quick. Well, I should say what seems like quick. Although to be honest, it didn't feel quick at each phase. To think that after tomorrow I will only have one more chemo treatment and 2 more radiation treatments. If they call to cancel another radiation treatment I will have to protest. I don't want to delay it any more. Get them done and let me move on. Wonder if they'll listen. I got to believe that I had an extra hour of sleep this morning, however dogs don't know anything about what time is on the clock. They just know they have to go out. So once I'm up it's hard to go back to bed and get comfortable - so off to the couch. Had to pick up my son then came home. Tried to take a nap but we had a party to go to. My sister-in-law's mom turns 70 tomorrow so they had quite a big party. Got tired and sore after awhile so had to come home. Other than that, it was a great celebration for a wonderful lady. Happy Birthday Sharon. I hope that next weekend will be a bit more enjoyable and I can find comfort this week with healing. I hope that in 9 days the bands will be gone and I won't have to deal with them again.

2009-10-31T21:29:00.002-04:00

Happy Halloween. Yay Noles - we won. Had to get up early to take my son to school. He had to work the FSU game today for ROTC. Came home and watched pre-football shows. I was doing ok but I was still a bit sore. My neck looked a lot better and seems to be healing. The skin is starting to grow in and close up. However that makes it hurt a little when I have to turn my head. The skin stretches some just like any kind of sore that heals. The middle chest area seems to be trying to heal as it has skin scabbing and flaking off. It is not quite the raw skin underneath as my underarm. I watched the FSU game and about 1/2 time I had to take the bandages off under my arm. Ok, that was painful. Even though I had ointment on, the bandages were sticking a little and it hurt like a bitch. Of course, it also make little spots that were bleeding. As I sat on the couch to let it dry out a bit - I ended up in tears again. I could feel the heat from my arm and as the air was hitting it, it was stinging and hurting. I had to put something back on it. So more ointment and I found some non-stick bandages that I cut the sticky part off of to see if maybe that would help. If it works, I'll have to pick up more of those. Some areas under my arm look like either new skin is coming in or that it is drying around the edges. That's a good sign, I just hope I can handle it until the rest heals a bit more. It was good that I had a bit of a rest for 3 days from treatment. But that means I have 3 more next week. Needless to say I have not been in much of a Halloween mood today and getting up and down can sometimes be a bit of a challenge - so I did not do anything for halloween. My son is off at his friend's and I feel bad that I have sat in the dark watching tv not answering the door for trick-r-treaters. I just don't feel like it. Sorry little kiddies. Next time. Well, I'll be off to bed soon. I even get an extra hour to sleep in in the morning. Don't forget to change the clocks back.

2009-10-30T22:55:00.002-04:00

Today started out a little better. I got up and got ready for work. Managed to do okay the early part of the day. They called me again today and cancelled my appt due to the machine still being down. It gives my skin a break but it also delays my treatment. I still have 3 left, which means I won't finish until next Wednesday. I was able to go to lunch with the girls today, which was a nice change. By about 3:00 it was time for me to co home and rest my arm It was getting a bit irritated and difficult to continue to work. Came home and took nap. Took the dressing off my arm and it was really sore. It is doing a little better this evening. I am just ready for this part to be over. Till tomorrow - hope it's a little better.

2009-10-29T22:51:00.002-04:00

First let me say thanks for the encouraging comments. Today was not a whole lot better. I realized when I woke up this morning that going to work was not really going to be an option. I called in sick (something I have not done in a long time) and went back to bed. I just couldn't see trying to wear clothes, work and not be in some kind of discomfort. I didn't have anything that was urgent that had to be done, so I took the day for me. I still had to go to treatment today and had to wait. The machine was still down so they were behind. My appt time is usually 1:20 and I didn't even get called back until 1:50. Came home and fell asleep. My son and I went to pick up his new glasses, got something to eat and came home and watched tv. I started to feel a little bit better. I didn't seem to be hurting quite as much (but I also took some pain meds). I should be okay to go to work tomorrow even if it is only 1/2 day. About 10 treatments ago, I thought I was doing so well and that I would be okay. Well, I am ok, I mean the skin reaction. Things can change basically overnight. At least the weekend is upon me and I will have two days repreive. I can only hope that the healing comes quickly and without too much pain and discomfort. Thanks for the prayers and support.

2009-10-28T21:38:00.002-04:00

Today was not a very good day. It started out with my son's glasses having broken. Fortunately he had a spare pair. Took him to school and got to work. My underarm was really sore and uncomfortable today. I put neosporin and gauze on it. It was still quite sore all day. I got a little bit of good news when radiology called and had to cancel my appointment today. The machine was broken and insted of putting me on the other machine they decided to give me a break for today. Which on the other hand means that I still have to make it up and finish on Tuesday next week instead of Monday. As the day went on, I felt like I was getting more sore. My son had a dentist appt at 3:00 so I left work, went to the dentist, then the eye glass place to see about his glasses. Of course they couldn't be fixed so I had to spend the money to buy him a new pair. Then off to the bank, something to eat and then TCBY for a treat. They were doing a share night for scouts so a donation of sales are going to be donated to Nick's scout troop. Then home to nurse my sores. It was pretty bad when I took the gauze off. There were tiny spots of bleeding. I have been sitting on the couch trying to let the air get to it a little bit. I even took one of the pain pills the doctor gave me. And not too long ago I finally broke down in tears. I've got a sore on my neck that hurts, my underarm is painful and I just can't move easily without something hurting. I know I only have 4 more to go and they are not zapping the spots that are hurting, but what has been zapped is really starting to take it's toll. I did not think it would get this bad. All this time I have been so very fortunate not to have many side effects or issues and now, at the end I am in pain. Wish I knew how long it will take for this to clear up. I remember feeling this way back when I had the drain tubes and wondering when I would be able to get them out because they were so bothersome. I guess this is kind of the same thing. I just hope it doesn't take 2 weeks to clear up. I don't know that I can take it that long. I guess having one breakdown in all this time isn't that bad.

2009-10-27T23:00:00.002-04:00

Tuesday, Tuesday. Wrong day or wrong song. Not a bad day. A bit tired all day but managed to make it. Met with the radiologist today. He could see my discomfort with my arm. We talked about different things I could do to try to make it feel better. I also have skin peeling from a few other areas that are making small sores. Bottom line is I can use neosprin, since it does not sting on open wounds like the creams I have do, with some gauze to cover it. Some areas are itchy still and I can see the skin starting to dry and get ready to peel. Once again, I'd have to say the radiation is the worst of things. Good news is I only have 4 left. He also said that this is what we want the skin to day. Research shows that the more reaction the less likey to have a re-occurance in that area. He could give me a dose that would not cause much reaction but that is not what we want. Yay me. So I guess a bit of good news in that regard. I can't help but think that I am doing the right things all the way around to beat this the best way possible. That, along with the trust in my doctors, prayers and support from my friends, and the belief that this will soon be a thing in the past and I can move on with my life. Attitude is 1/2 the battle.

2009-10-26T21:44:00.002-04:00

You never know what Monday will bring. Even thought I had something covering my underarm, it is still quite icky and moist. Didn't sleep very well, tossed and turned. Got up on time and had a hard time getting Nick up. I finally had to drop water on his face and he wasn't happy. Got some work done but I have full day ahead of me tomorrow. Had my radiation treatment, which went quick. Then off to chemo. I was there a little early and of course it was end of lunch time so I had to wait. Doctor wasn't there but they took me back to get me going with the normal visit stuff. We went ahead and started blood work, and wouldn't you know, the port was not working today. Figures. So they ended up taking it from the arm. Went back to the room to wait on the doctor. She was amazed at how great my blood work looked. She said it looked like someone not on chemo. I hope that is a good thing. She was excited that I only had 2 more treatments after today and said she would miss me, but that I should come visit - and bring cookies. Off to Chemo and finished with no problems. Moved my band and went home. Slept on the couch for about 2 hoursl I was supposed to go to Nick's school for some Freshmen chat - but missed it. Wasn't too worried about it. Ready for bed a little early tonight - so till tomorrow. Good night, sleep tight - sweet dreams.

2009-10-25T22:23:00.002-04:00

Good day. Got to sleep in again. Chilled out and started some laundry. Went shopping a little and had lunch. Watched football - no good games on. Did some more laundry. Made some Stuffed Cabbage Soup. My arm was basically itchy most of the day. Didn't get much of a nap today. Did some more laundry - ok, well only 5 loads today. My arm is still itchy underneath. I really hope that means it's healing. The start of my last 6 treatments tomorrow and the last of 3 chemos. It will soon be ready to party. Let's bring on the week.

2009-10-24T22:07:00.002-04:00

Pretty good day. I got to sleep in. Watched a little football before having to pick up my son and his friend. Went to lunch, dropped my son at his friend's for the night, then went shopping. Played with the dog a little while, watched Miami lose (yay) and currently watching the Gators trying to hold on. Arm is a little sore and so is my neck. Parts are starting to get a little dry but not healting just yet. Some areas are a little swollen. It has been nice just relaxing tonight and not having to worry about anyone but me. Once again I get to sleep in tomorrow. The weekends are great for doing nothing. Although I have about 10 loads of laundry to catch up on. Ok, not really = closer to 5. There is always tomorrow to work on it.

2009-10-23T23:12:00.002-04:00

Wow, what a Friday. I was tired as usual, but made it thru the day. I was able to move another band today for radiation. I am down to the last 6. The tech told me today - I have 6 minutes left (each zap is basically less than 1 minute). I was ready for a nap most of the day. There was no school today so Nick got to sleep in. My underarm is still sore. I have been using the foam thing they gave me which prevents my clothes sticking to me. It helps a little bit. I have a few spots that itch so I have to be careful not to scratch myself. I am looking forward to next week coming and going. I was able to go back in time tonight. We ended up going to the high school football game. We played our rival team and we won 42-9. It was very interesting being on the adult side of a high school game and thinking back to when I went to games as a student. It was a lot of fun. Crazy parents though. Sorry for my friends Darren and Rebecca who were cheering on the other team. Anyway - it is quite late and I need to go to bed. I get to sleep in so it's not all bad.

2009-10-22T22:57:00.002-04:00

Not a bad day for Thursday. However, as usual, I was tired this morning. By Thursday, the week gets to me. I went back to bed after dropping Nick off at the bus stop. I ended up going into work an hour late. Made it thru the morning. Had my treatment and the afternoon went by a little slow. I met my brother and sister-in-law at a local pizza place for dinner as they were doing a special share night. The pizza place was donating 10% of check to the cancer society. Food was good, company was better. Came home to watch the FSU game. Game is mot over but we are losing by 1 point. Nick ended up on the computer for awhile, which is why I am late with the blog. I have been ready for bed for about an hour. I guess my blog could have waited or I could have kicked Nick offf the computer. Instead I fell asleep. My arm did okay today. I used the foam bandage thiing which worked for the most part. I did feel a little pulling at times which hurt some. I also took a pain pill to see if that would make a difference tonight. Might be why I fell asleep. I am glad Friday is here. I get to move another band tomorrow. Looking at all the bands on one hand is quite cool. To realize how much I have done and how little I have left to go. Till tomorrow. Hope the Noles win.

2009-10-21T22:25:00.002-04:00

Hump day has come to an end so it's almost like it's Thursday already. Ok, so most of the skin has peeled from under my arm. Today was kind of yucky. My shirt kept sticking under my arm. It was a bit annoying and uncomfortable. On the positive side of things, I was only zapped in one spot today and it took all of about 10 minutes for me to be in and out. Different from the 20 or so it took before. And I am down to only 8 left. I am so close to the last week - I can almost taste it. Ok, well not really taste it, but that's the saying. I was not that tired today but I did take a nap when I got home. I am meeting with my hairdresser tomorrow to see what I can do with my hair as it continues to grow. Can't really style it quite yet but getting close. Hope the weekend shows up quickly.

2009-10-20T22:13:00.002-04:00

Today was a much better day. I actually slept good last night, not great but better than the night before. A so-so morning at work. Went to radiation and got the last dose under the arm. Doctor saw the arm and said had it not been my last one he would take a break on the arm doses. He also gave me a prescription for dealing with the pain from the sores. He drew the new marking for the last 9 treatments which is just one spot and should take less than 1 minute. Ended my day at work fine. I was not tired today and did not need a nap when I got home. Dropped my son off at a scout meeting and went to the store. I seem to be doing pretty good today. And now I am ready for bed. I had some sad news from 3 people today. My thoughts and prayers go out to Crystal, Cindy and the Reeses. I had heard about 2 deaths and a break-in. My heart goes out to them.

2009-10-19T22:25:00.002-04:00

What a shitty day for a Monday. It started out with not much sleep last night. I had a hard time getting comfortable and falling asleep. When I did fall asleep, I woke up a couple hours later having to try to get comfortable again. Mostly due to the sore under my arm. This morning my son and I both got up later than we should have. I noticed that I now have a 2nd sore under my arm. This skin is slowly peeling. Got Nick to school at the sound of the bell and to work about 5 minutes late. Then after about an hour of work - the computer went down. I can't do my work without the computer. Then the news came that it wom't be up until later in the day. Great. And I leave at 1 for the day. Well I found something to keep me busy until I had to leave. Had my radiation. Was told somewhat good news. Tomorrow will be the last day I get radiation on the underarm. Hopefully that will allow the sores to heal, however with the chemo, things don't heal as quickly. So off to chemo. The port worked great - on first try. I was quite tired so I was dosing in and out. Got done at 4 (quicker than usual). Came home and took a nap - until about 7. I was really tired. I meet with the doctor tomorrow to find out what is in store for the last 9 radiation treatments. I hope it's a better day than today. If nothing else, it's one day closer to Friday.

2009-10-18T22:21:00.002-04:00

What a beautiful Sunday. Clear sky, cool weather. That was the exception. My arm is still quite sore and I find it hard to be comfortable. It's almost like when I had my second surgery, finding it hard to put my arm down by my side. And laying down is s bit of a challenge. I was able to sleep in and rest. My son made it home from camping around 11:30. I did not have breakfast yet so we went for a bagel. It was nice walking from the car, putting my arm around my son and him saying he missed me and kissed my cheek. Doesn't get any better than that. We shopped around a little then came home a chilled out watching football. Just kind of relaxed for the day. I am hoping my arm does not get worse this week and can only set my sights on Friday, to know another week is done and only one to go. I have double treatment tomorrow so I can move a chemo band and have 3 left. The doctor has already scheduled my chest x-ray and CT scan for Jan 13th, 2010. We won't think about that until Jan comes around. Let's bring on the week.

2009-10-17T23:12:00.002-04:00

I haven't mentioned my bands lately. It is a sight to be able to look at my left arm and see 13 bands and my right arm and only see 6. 8 of the bands on the left are from my chemo treatments and 5 are from the 5 weeks of radiation I have had. With only 4 chemo treatments left and 2 weeks of radiation, it is hard to believe how much I have actually been thru. I am starting to show some signs of the wear and tear. The wear is mostly being tired and the tear is the skin under my arm (mostly armpit). Not only do I have an open sore at the scar under my arm, but this skin in the armpit is really soft and peeling. Not like a sunburn peel, but like a blister skin peel. The rest of my skin is getting burned but not to the point of peeling. And it doesn't hurt as much as the armpit. I'm thinking if I can make it thru the 2 weeks of the 2nd surgery and the drain tube, I can make it thru the next 2 weeks of radiation. It is a bit chilly this evening and as I sit on the couch I have one cat curled up in my legs and the dog curled up beside him. No need for a blanket as they are both keeping me warm. How sweet it is to have the love of pets.

2009-10-17T10:48:00.002-04:00

I can't believe I went to bed last night and didn't do my blog. I was on the computer, finished what I was doing, was ready for bed and shut off the computer. Once I did that I realized I didn't blog. Too tired to turn it back on. So here is yesterday's update. Started out normal and by 10:00 I was ready for a nap. I think as time goes on, by the time Thursday and Friday gets here I am tired. Once I get past the 10:00 hour, I seem to be okay. It was bosses day and wouldn't you know, our boss brought us breakfast. Gotta love him. Got a lot of work done. Had my 23nd treatment then stopped and got 2 of the bosses a cupcake from the Cake Shop. I was able to make it until 5:00 and then came home and slept until 7:30. I tried to keep my right arm lifted up behind my head to let some air get to the sore I have. That is really about the only thing that bothers me right now. After the next 2 treatments, they will be backing off of the radiation but I am still not sure what they will be doing. I am counting down the next few weeks until I am done. I know the completion is near.

2009-10-15T22:36:00.002-04:00

What a day. Had a hard time getting up this morning. I ended up going back to sleep for another hour. Seems like I had to do that last week too. I guess things start to get to me by the end of the week. I'll need to make up work again this weekend. My underarm (mainly the arm pit) hurts. It's really hard to see but it looks like some of the skin is peeling, possibly like a blister. The cream helps some but it is still uncomfortable. Glad I only have 12 more visits to go. My son is camping this weekend so I will have peace and quiet with no obligations. Maybe I can stay awake long enough to have a little bit of fun.

2009-10-14T23:00:00.002-04:00

Happy hump day. Two days left in the work week. It's nice knowing the weekend is in sight. 13 treatments left and I can't wait for it to be over. Even though it doesn't seem like much I'm sure the effects will be. It's like getting sun burn on top of sun burn on top of sun burn. It doesn't really hurt except under the arm. The rest is just getting quite red. The mental aspect of the bands I wear is working but I can't wait to get those off either. They are getting to be a hastle but I do like the visual of seeing how far I have come and how little I have left. I came home tonight and took a nap. I think if it wasn't for my son waking me up, I would still be asleep. We actually took a walk around the block tonight, twice. Well, time for bed. If I keep taking naps, I end up staying up later, then I am tired in the morning and need a nap when I get home. Funny how that works.

2009-10-13T23:16:00.002-04:00

Let me start by saying - I don't get how some people just don't have basic common sense. Nothing specific to mention, it's just it seems that I come across people daily that are lacking. So the day started as normal, up as usual, work was work and treatment was treatment. I met with the doctor today and he concurred with my doctor yesterday that I have something that is like an infection and the cream will help. He also said I could take my ibuprofin, which would help and also gave me a dressing to use under the arm to help with the rubbing against my side or getting irritated by my clothes. Some type of weird silicone sticky tape thing. I only have 14 treatments left but I understand it can get worse in those 14 days. I am hoping it won't be that bad and that I will be able to deal with it. After work, went to teen court with the scouts and it was very interesting. I hope the boys were listening to the advise from the Judge and what was going on. It is a much later night than I was expecting so I need to get to bed. One thing I forgot to mention yesterday - it was quite a different chemo treatment yesterday in that with the exception of the first 15 minutes, I ended up being the only one in the room for most of my treatment and actually took a nap. It was a nice change.

2009-10-12T23:07:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I guess nothing is predictable these days. Up early and kind of tired (nothing new there). Got to work and took care of the things that had to be handled since I was leaving at 1:00. My underarm was sore all day. Right by the crease of your underarm. Almost feels like a blister but it is just very red. So I brought one of my heart pillows that I used after surgery to put under my arm to avoid any rubbing against my side. So I go to radiation and nothing new there. I always talk football with one of the techs. In and out fairly quickly. I told him about my underarm and he said that seems to be the place most people notice it. Ok, so I have time to get get some lunch before chemo treatment. I get to treatment a little early. On to the doctor office irritations. Once again, why is it that older people (not old, just older than me) with cell phone don't use office courtesy when others are around. This lady must have been playing some kind of game on her cell phone, so every 2 seconds you hear.....ding......ding....ding. This goes on for at least 10 min. She is across the room from me but I look at her a few times and she doesn't even notice. Prior to that she reads a text to the person with her, word for word, in broken sentences as she is reading it. So annoying. I guess I don't have much tolerance lately.
So I finally get called in for a room and have to wait about 15 min. No big deal as I am in no hurry. The doctor looks at me and I told her about the soreness under my arm. She thinks it may be the start of an infection. Great. She said she would call me in a special cream that has an antibiotic type effect to ease some of the swelling and discomfort. So I will use that at night and the cream the radiation nurse gave me in the morning. I see the radiologist doctor tomorrow so we will see what he says. I did ask her what we do after I am done with treatment. I start the tamoxofin 1 week after radiation (daily for unknown amount of time) and we'll do a CT scan beginning of Jan. She wants the swelling to go done because the scan will show all of that and not give a good reading. I will worry about it then, but I hope and pray that it shows good results from all this. In doing my chemo, the port worked relatively quickly. It took a few minutes but it worked. I moved a band so now I have 4 chemos left and 15 radiation treatments left. Counting them down and looking forward to November. My hair looked good today. It actually has a bit of style going on. Very curly. I may need to go see my hairdresser soon to see what I need to do with it to keep it manicured nicely. Well, off to bed. The Dolphins are in the lead and I can only hope that at least one of my teams wins for a change. Otherwise I will start to cheer for Alabama and Indy Colts.

2009-10-11T22:40:00.003-04:00

Well I didn't get to bed last night until 2:30a. I was up around 7 to let the dog out, then back to bed until about 10:30. A relaxing day for the most part. We went to get a bagel and had to pick up some meds from Walgreens. Hung out and watched football most of the day. I also did some work I had brought home. We made some corn and sausage chowder and some steak. I didn't even get a nap today, but my son did. My underarm is quite a bit uncomfortable and red. I put some lotion on it but it is still a little irritated. Mostly where my shirt rubs underneath. I have some red splotches on my upper chest and up toward my neck on the right side. I have 3 more weeks of radiation so I hope it doesn't get too unbearable. The radiologist told me by the 5th week I will not like him very much. I would say I have this week to go easy on him then the last 2 weeks I won't be very happy. Tomorrow is number 8 chemo so I will only have 4 more left. That's exciting. I still get a bit hot and can't stand the heat outside for very long. Other than that - not much to report.

2009-10-10T22:24:00.002-04:00

It is a long day. At least I got to sleep in and then of course, dosed on and off while on the couch. Didn't do much but watch football most of the day. I did make some chocolate chip muffins for breakfast. Had to take my son to school to go to the FSU game for ROTC. Ok, so the only thing worse than a 78 minute weather delay due to lightening, with it being an 8:00 game, is I have to stay up to pick my son up when they get back from the game. So I was originally planning midnight to 1:00. So if they stay the whole game as normal will it be more like 2:00??? I guess I will be sleeping in until noon tomorrow. It is actually a good game so I need to stay up and watch it. The Gators on the other hand, have been holding a 7 point lead for 2 quarters with no score change. It would be so sweet if they lost just one game. Anyway - not even 1/2 time yet so maybe I will take a 15 min nap so I can be up till the wee hours.

2009-10-09T23:04:00.002-04:00

It's finally Friday and I get to sleep in tomorrow. I was up early again to get Nick to the bus stop. When I got back home I was still tired so I went back to bed for another hour or so and end up going into work a little late. It was actually helpful as I was not as tired by the end of the day as usual. I brought some work home though to make up time from the week. Treatment went ok today and I moved another weekly band. 3 weeks left of radiation. My son mentioned tonight how fast things seemed to have gone. I told him when you look at all you have to do it seems like forever. But looking at one thing at a time it is more manageable. He said, that's right - one day at a time. I would have never been able to tell you 6 months ago that it would be over before I knew it. At the time it is a lot to take in and too much to even think about. I have no idea what lies ahead. Right now I am focused on getting thru treatment and then see what comes next. My hair is coming in quite nicely. Thick and curly. I put some curl gel in it today to see if it would style some. I actually had a few comments on it. Pretty soon I'll have to see my hairdresser to get some kind of style going. Off to bed. Blessings to all.

2009-10-08T22:05:00.002-04:00

Another day closer to Friday. My underarm is a bit sore tonight. The tech told me today that my skin looks really good. I asked him by what comparison because to me it was quite red. He said from what they see, I was looking great. And only 17 more scaldings to go. I didn't get my nap in when I got home, but I sure was tired. Things to do. I am headed to be so hopefully I will get a good night sleep. I am glad tomorrow is Friday and I will be able to rest this weekend. I have heard from a few people that they have passed on my blog site to others that have recently been diagnosed or effected by breast cancer. My prayers go out to you. If you are just at the beginning stages, just take one day at a time. Handle only what you have to at the time. The last 5 months have gone faster than I ever thought they would. You don't really think it will when you first start out, but I am amazed at how far I have come in just a short time. As my mom used to say, this too shall pass, and I believe that it will.

2009-10-07T22:54:00.002-04:00

Happy hump day. Good day, although got up a little late this morning. I have been a bit tired. I got a lot done at work and was ready to go at 5. My under arm was a little sore this afternoon after treatment. There is definately skin changes under the arm. I just hope it doesn't get too bad over the next 3 weeks. Tomorrow is the 1/2 way mark. I came home from work and took a nap for almost 2 hours. Not much else this evening. I'll be glad when the week is over.

2009-10-06T23:10:00.003-04:00

Amazingly enough today is my 150th post. Hard for me to believe. It started out like any other day, as I expected it to. Made it to 1:00 to head to my radiation appt. Got in and out fairly quickly, but also needed to see the Doc. Didn't take him long. He said everything looked as it should and felt my skin was reacting well and didn't think I would burn too bad. Today was #15 and I have 19 more to go. Almost 1/2 way done. On top of that, I am on the down hill with chemo. So, on my way back to work I got a call from my sister in law who usually picks up Nick from school on Tues. He stays late for ROTC. He had called her and said his knee was bothering him and it dislocated earlier. So I called him to see what was up. He said it probably needed to be looked at. Called the doctor and was able to get him in within 40 min. So a u-turn to pick him up and get him to doctor. Basically it did not dislocate. I think he has knees problems like I did. His knee cap moves off to the side when he straightens his leg and as a teenager he will start to have soreness in the knees anyway. So, nothing major to do other than exercises that will help stregthen it and possible knee brace. Back to work with the both of us and stayed about an hour later. Then home only long enough to change and go to scouts. I wasn't planning on staying. I wanted to come home and nap. I stayed long enough to be needed and ended up not getting home until after 9. Watched a couple shows and now ready to hit the hay. It's always something. Never a dull moment and just when you think you have it planned, you can't plan on it. Let's see what tomorrow will bring.

2009-10-05T21:26:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday. I was a little late getting up today. I was a bit tired. Went to work then had radiation at 1:00. After that was chemo at 2. It took the port a few minutes to start working but it finally worked. Got done early today (about 4) and headed home.. Fell asleep for about an hour, went to Verizon one more time (got son a new phone), came home and had some pasta and ready for bed. Everything seemed to go fine today other than being tired. I have 5 more chemo treatments and 20 more radiation treatments. Things are moving along but I am ready for it to be over. I've had enough and I'm over it. Anyway I know I will soon be reporting that I am finally finished but until then I get to moan and groan over it and speak my dislike. Glad Monday has come to an end. Until tomorrow - night night.

2009-10-04T22:36:00.002-04:00

Another Sunday comes to an end. That means another week of treatment to face. Slept in and hung out until dropping my son off to sell popcorn for scouts. Came home and watched football and of course, fell asleep. Seems to be the thing I do. Picked up my son, came home and watched more football and of course fell asleep. Glad there is at least 2 days on the weekend for me to do nothing but sleep. Physically I feel fine. I seem to be eating more than I need to, which my doctor said is normal. Gotta feed me body since chemo is killing it. Mentally I am doing well. I try to stay positive and put myself in situations where I am around positive vibes. I take one day at a time and check it of the calendar and know I am one day closer to being done with treatment. I am ready to take on the week and what ever it may bring. And I am ready for bed.

2009-10-04T00:13:00.002-04:00

Well, it is officially Sunday, however this is my Saturday post. It is way past my bedtime but I was at a Breast Cancer event tonight and just got home. Today was great. I slept in a little bit, watched some tv, got my son up and we went to breakfast and ran some errands. I felt good most of the day. Of course I started to get tired around 2 or so. Took a quick nap and had to get up in time to watch the Noles. I should have stayed asleep as bad as the game was. We did tie it up but couldn't hold on. Anyway, I went to an event called Cards for the Cure. It was to benefit the cancer center at our hospital. They had silent auction, live auction, poker, open bar, a band, it was nice. It was like a cocktail party. Lots of interesting dresses and attire. I asked my sister in law to go with me. I bid on two items and ended up buying them. One is a painted sign that says "celebrate" and the other was a pink basket with pink ribbon items (visor, socks, umbrella, scarf, bracelet and a vera bradley mini purse). One of the local high schools was challenged by their principal for one week to try to raise $10,000. Rather than going into the long story - they ended up raising $26,000. in one week. One more day of rest and the week starts all over again. Enjoy your Sunday.