busy day today, till about 3:15 when DD2 and I got home. the only thing of note -- i went to the optician to order another pair of glasses, as I have lost mine and I need glasses for when my eyes are dry -- the optician lady said the frames i picked out were "1/2 millimeter away from being perfect". i'm not exactly sure what that means -- but hey! compliment! i'll take it! she also said i did such a good job picking out frames, i should work there....
oh, funny thing i forgot to mention from last week.
i'm at the eye dr, and the little gal is going over the form i filled out where u have to check off whether u or a family member has had this disease or that. keep in mind, i am not wearing a wig. i am wearing a hat, and you can tell there's no hair under the hat.
little gal: (looking down at form) So, someone in your family has had cancer?
me: yes.
LG: who is it?
me: uh, me.
Monday, April 30, 2007
TMI
If you don't want to read graphic details of my chemo SEs found below, may I suggest the very fine political commentary of my friend Mr. Lightbulb. http://thelightbulbblog.blogspot.com/
You have been warned.
Can I just tell you the diarrhea has stopped, which, Praise GOD, but everything else has stopped, too? for like, 3 or 4 days now? And I didn't even take an Immodium or anything.
So, on the one hand, it's nice not to have the big D anymore, but on the other hand, i'm still eating on a regular basis....so.....i'm kind of wondering when things are going to start moving....'cause that traffic jam can't last forever.....
You have been warned.
Can I just tell you the diarrhea has stopped, which, Praise GOD, but everything else has stopped, too? for like, 3 or 4 days now? And I didn't even take an Immodium or anything.
So, on the one hand, it's nice not to have the big D anymore, but on the other hand, i'm still eating on a regular basis....so.....i'm kind of wondering when things are going to start moving....'cause that traffic jam can't last forever.....
OK, OK
I am informed that "Seventh Generation" comes from an Indian saying that we should remember that what we do affects the next seven generations.
Fine.
It's still a funny name for toilet paper.
Fine.
It's still a funny name for toilet paper.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
At Whole Foods
Friday night, I went to a book signing inside the Loop, and then went to Whole Foods, which is a grocery store that offers organic food. I wanted to get some brownie mixes that didn't feature partially hydrogenated stuff, and ketchup made without high fructose corn syrup.
I love going there. It's so different from shopping in the suburbs. I am clearly the only republican in the whole store.
Anyway, while I'm browsing, I see some toilet paper for sale. And we need toilet paper, as I made the mistake of asking DH to buy toilet paper last time, and he came home with some single-ply sandpaper substitute. And since I am the one who goes to the bathroom the most in our family, I get to pick.
The name of the toilet paper offered at Whole Foods?
Seventh Generation Toilet Paper.
Uh. I think there's such a thing as carrying recycling too far.....
I love going there. It's so different from shopping in the suburbs. I am clearly the only republican in the whole store.
Anyway, while I'm browsing, I see some toilet paper for sale. And we need toilet paper, as I made the mistake of asking DH to buy toilet paper last time, and he came home with some single-ply sandpaper substitute. And since I am the one who goes to the bathroom the most in our family, I get to pick.
The name of the toilet paper offered at Whole Foods?
Seventh Generation Toilet Paper.
Uh. I think there's such a thing as carrying recycling too far.....
Saturday, April 28, 2007
We Have A Location
The DDs and I went to our neighborhood's Pool Opening Party today. It was fun. There was free food, games, prizes....I basically lay on a chaise lounge the whole time and read my new book, "Grave Surprise" by Charlaine Harris.
I ate 2 hotdogs, some chips, a dr. pepper, and 1/2 a brownie. My mouth isn't metallic right now, so everything tasted really good.
I didn't go in the water, as it was FREEZING. Well, i did jump off the diving board two times to cool off, but i sure didn't stay in the pool. the DDs were in there almost the whole time.
but! the cool thing! they had a bunch of door prizes: gift cards to here and there, beach bags, blablabla. i went over and scoped out the prizes, and saw that there was one for a free pool party.
hmmm....
all along, i'd been assuming the BuhBye Chemo Party that i'm going to throw this summer would be here at our house. But a pool party...hmmm......the kids would have somewhere to play other than our miniscule back yard, and, the biggest plus -- i wouldn't have to clean the house twice.
so, while i was scoping out the prizes, i mentioned to the lady standing there that the pool party was the prize i was hoping to get.
they had a drawing for a few of the prizes, including the pool party, and announced the winning numbers. apparently the people who had the number they drew for the pool party had already left, because a little while later, i noticed the lady i'd spoken to earlier walking toward me.
"The committe voted," she said, "and we're giving the pool party to you."
I could have hugged her.
so, yay! stay tuned for details of the upcoming Chemo Independence Pool Party!
I ate 2 hotdogs, some chips, a dr. pepper, and 1/2 a brownie. My mouth isn't metallic right now, so everything tasted really good.
I didn't go in the water, as it was FREEZING. Well, i did jump off the diving board two times to cool off, but i sure didn't stay in the pool. the DDs were in there almost the whole time.
but! the cool thing! they had a bunch of door prizes: gift cards to here and there, beach bags, blablabla. i went over and scoped out the prizes, and saw that there was one for a free pool party.
hmmm....
all along, i'd been assuming the BuhBye Chemo Party that i'm going to throw this summer would be here at our house. But a pool party...hmmm......the kids would have somewhere to play other than our miniscule back yard, and, the biggest plus -- i wouldn't have to clean the house twice.
so, while i was scoping out the prizes, i mentioned to the lady standing there that the pool party was the prize i was hoping to get.
they had a drawing for a few of the prizes, including the pool party, and announced the winning numbers. apparently the people who had the number they drew for the pool party had already left, because a little while later, i noticed the lady i'd spoken to earlier walking toward me.
"The committe voted," she said, "and we're giving the pool party to you."
I could have hugged her.
so, yay! stay tuned for details of the upcoming Chemo Independence Pool Party!
The First Official Chemo Moment
I was fixing to take a shower, and the cats were complaining that they were thirsty, so i plugged the sink, and let the water run, AND THEN TURNED AND WENT IN THE SHOWER STALL TO TAKE MY SHOWER. yes, completely forgot to turn the water in the sink off.
Luckily, a) i take really short showers these days, as i don't need to shave, shampoo, or condition anything.
and b) we have tile in the bathroom now, so no wet carpet to deal with.
sigh. can't blame in on being a blonde. gotta blame it on the chemo.
Luckily, a) i take really short showers these days, as i don't need to shave, shampoo, or condition anything.
and b) we have tile in the bathroom now, so no wet carpet to deal with.
sigh. can't blame in on being a blonde. gotta blame it on the chemo.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Wiped Out
Went to a meeting at church today, which was fun. We're planning the next 224 -- a quarterly marriage event at our church, where we have music, food, games, prizes, a short talk by a speaker....
then, i had been informed by dd1 that i was expected at her school for a volunteer luncheon, so i went to that
then, it was Mess Day at dd2's school, where the kids wore old clothes and got to spray paint, and paint with toilet brushes and plungers outside....parents were invited, so i went to that.
then, dd2 desperately needed a hair cut, so we got her hair cut...
then off to buy stamps and mail invites to DD2's bday party in a couple of weeks.
then home to collapse.
my friend Susan came by with chicken spaghetti for us tonight. this was a Bonus Meal, as normally we get meals on mondays from church folk, and meals on wednesdays from neighbor folk. susan used to be a neighbor, but moved to Cole's Crossing, Land of the Large Back Yards, a few years ago. she heard about me, and basically called up and said, "i'm cooking for ya on Thursday." so, woohoo! bonus!
which is a good thing, because the food that Dragana cooked for us yesterday was so good, it's about all gone. we kept going back for seconds and thirds. even the DDs, who took one look at the mashed potatoes (which were slightly orange because Dragana had added sweet potato) and declared they were Not Eating That, once they TRIED said spuds, were going back for more.
then, i had been informed by dd1 that i was expected at her school for a volunteer luncheon, so i went to that
then, it was Mess Day at dd2's school, where the kids wore old clothes and got to spray paint, and paint with toilet brushes and plungers outside....parents were invited, so i went to that.
then, dd2 desperately needed a hair cut, so we got her hair cut...
then off to buy stamps and mail invites to DD2's bday party in a couple of weeks.
then home to collapse.
my friend Susan came by with chicken spaghetti for us tonight. this was a Bonus Meal, as normally we get meals on mondays from church folk, and meals on wednesdays from neighbor folk. susan used to be a neighbor, but moved to Cole's Crossing, Land of the Large Back Yards, a few years ago. she heard about me, and basically called up and said, "i'm cooking for ya on Thursday." so, woohoo! bonus!
which is a good thing, because the food that Dragana cooked for us yesterday was so good, it's about all gone. we kept going back for seconds and thirds. even the DDs, who took one look at the mashed potatoes (which were slightly orange because Dragana had added sweet potato) and declared they were Not Eating That, once they TRIED said spuds, were going back for more.
Today
I have a meeting at church. I am taking the chair closest to the bathroom. Hope nobody gets offended if i run out of the room while they're talking!
Wednesday
Felt better, actually ran 4 errands. Of course, that wiped me out. Debbie came over in the evening and helped out, and Linda dropped by with books, as i am fresh out of new fiction. So, we 3 chatted till about 8:30. it was nice. of course, they were seated, and i was lying down...
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Feeling Better Tonight
Actually ate a plate of spaghetti. Stomach doesn't hurt as much. Yay! Go, God!
My friend Lori came over this morning and spoiled me -- heated up some soup, cleaned the bathroom, helped clean out the fridge....
then Julie the Wonder went and got me a chocolate shake -- the only thing that sounded good.
I am blessed to be surrounded by God's presence, and by such wonderful people.
My friend Lori came over this morning and spoiled me -- heated up some soup, cleaned the bathroom, helped clean out the fridge....
then Julie the Wonder went and got me a chocolate shake -- the only thing that sounded good.
I am blessed to be surrounded by God's presence, and by such wonderful people.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Briefly, 'Cause I Have to Go Lie Down Again
I should have weighed myself early Saturday night, 'cause I weighed a whole lot less by Sunday night.
Buy stock in Cotonelle toilet paper -- cuase usage is going up around here!
Sorry this post isn't longer -- I'm not feeling very good. Going to go lie down and try and feel better. love and blessings to you.
Buy stock in Cotonelle toilet paper -- cuase usage is going up around here!
Sorry this post isn't longer -- I'm not feeling very good. Going to go lie down and try and feel better. love and blessings to you.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Today
got up, did a load of laundry, tidied the kitchen a bit. rested.
went to a mother-daughter luncheon with DD1. we left early, but we made it about an hour, which is pretty good.
came home and lay down, which i've been doing pretty much the rest of the day.
felt like broccoli with oyster sauce for supper:
me: i'd like beef with broccoli, no, i mean, broccoli with oyster sauce
order guy on phone: beef with lobster sauce?
me: no, broc-co-li-with-oy-s-ter-sauce.
OGOP: broccoli with lobster sauce?
me: no, V-4, broccoli with oyster sauce.
OGOP: B-4?
Me: no, Veeee 4, like Valentine.
OGOP: oh, ok.
It will not surprise you to learn that DH got his moo goo gai pan ok, and the girls got their sweet and sour chicken just fine, but i, who was the impetus for us eating Chinese food in the first place, got BEEEE-4, Beef with Snow Peas. Chemo Girl, however, didn't WANT Beef with Snow Peas. Chemo Girl just wanted broccoli. With oyster sauce. So, tho DH urged me to just eat some of his, I called them back, and after much Asian berating in the background, they finally figured out what I wanted, and the poor delivery guy had to come all the way out to our house again with the correct food.
Of course, either due to my metallic-tasting mouth, or the haste in which it had been prepared, it just didn't taste right.
I still ate about 7 pieces of it, tho.
went to a mother-daughter luncheon with DD1. we left early, but we made it about an hour, which is pretty good.
came home and lay down, which i've been doing pretty much the rest of the day.
felt like broccoli with oyster sauce for supper:
me: i'd like beef with broccoli, no, i mean, broccoli with oyster sauce
order guy on phone: beef with lobster sauce?
me: no, broc-co-li-with-oy-s-ter-sauce.
OGOP: broccoli with lobster sauce?
me: no, V-4, broccoli with oyster sauce.
OGOP: B-4?
Me: no, Veeee 4, like Valentine.
OGOP: oh, ok.
It will not surprise you to learn that DH got his moo goo gai pan ok, and the girls got their sweet and sour chicken just fine, but i, who was the impetus for us eating Chinese food in the first place, got BEEEE-4, Beef with Snow Peas. Chemo Girl, however, didn't WANT Beef with Snow Peas. Chemo Girl just wanted broccoli. With oyster sauce. So, tho DH urged me to just eat some of his, I called them back, and after much Asian berating in the background, they finally figured out what I wanted, and the poor delivery guy had to come all the way out to our house again with the correct food.
Of course, either due to my metallic-tasting mouth, or the haste in which it had been prepared, it just didn't taste right.
I still ate about 7 pieces of it, tho.
A Bit Better
Yesterday, I put stuff back in my closet, since Steve TTG was done in there.
That's about all I accomplished.
I did move DH's stuf from his closet off the bed so I could lie down.
Other than that, just rested.
My next door neighbor came over last night and prayed with me. That was really cool.
I have a bit more energy today, tho things needs to start moving downstairs, if u know what I mean...
I've cleaned off the kitchen table and done a load of laundry. That may be all I get done today, but it's something....
That's about all I accomplished.
I did move DH's stuf from his closet off the bed so I could lie down.
Other than that, just rested.
My next door neighbor came over last night and prayed with me. That was really cool.
I have a bit more energy today, tho things needs to start moving downstairs, if u know what I mean...
I've cleaned off the kitchen table and done a load of laundry. That may be all I get done today, but it's something....
Friday, April 20, 2007
True Love
DH is off today as he is not feeling well, and DD1 missed the bus. So, we had to drive her to school. "Wait," he says, "let me get my wallet, and we can go grab some breakfast."
Keep in mind, I am dressed in the clothes I slept in, no contacts, no makeup, and the yellow, green and blue sock hat my friend Jim kniited me.
This is not a good look. If the house were on fire, and I was dressed like this, I might just take the time to change.
Anyway, I told him I REALLY appreciated it, but if he could just go in and get the food and leave me in the car, that would be best.
I ended up just drinking some hot chocolate, anyway. He bought some streusel cake that didn't taste good to my little metallic mouth.
Keep in mind, I am dressed in the clothes I slept in, no contacts, no makeup, and the yellow, green and blue sock hat my friend Jim kniited me.
This is not a good look. If the house were on fire, and I was dressed like this, I might just take the time to change.
Anyway, I told him I REALLY appreciated it, but if he could just go in and get the food and leave me in the car, that would be best.
I ended up just drinking some hot chocolate, anyway. He bought some streusel cake that didn't taste good to my little metallic mouth.
Thursday
Had it been a "Normal day", here's what i was scheduled for:
meeting at the Y with my trainer
read story to DD2's class
watch DD2's class in their trikeathon
help out at DD1's field trip
I didn't do any of that. Didn't feel up to it.
I went to a seminar at MD Anderson. My friend Audrey drove. Good thing, because MDA is big ole honkin place, inside and out. I got tuckered out the first few minutes of being there.
After the seminar, where I got a free wig that makes me feel like Jennifer Garner in "Alias", we headed back home.
Then I found out that I had accidentally asked two separate people to pick DD2 up at school. Whoops! chemo brain has started already! So, had to get that straightened out.
Then rested the rest of the day.
Food Consumption for Today:
1/2 a hot chocolate from a local coffee shop
1/2 a smoothie from Smoothie King
a croissant
3/4 of a turkey and cheese sandwich
meeting at the Y with my trainer
read story to DD2's class
watch DD2's class in their trikeathon
help out at DD1's field trip
I didn't do any of that. Didn't feel up to it.
I went to a seminar at MD Anderson. My friend Audrey drove. Good thing, because MDA is big ole honkin place, inside and out. I got tuckered out the first few minutes of being there.
After the seminar, where I got a free wig that makes me feel like Jennifer Garner in "Alias", we headed back home.
Then I found out that I had accidentally asked two separate people to pick DD2 up at school. Whoops! chemo brain has started already! So, had to get that straightened out.
Then rested the rest of the day.
Food Consumption for Today:
1/2 a hot chocolate from a local coffee shop
1/2 a smoothie from Smoothie King
a croissant
3/4 of a turkey and cheese sandwich
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Update
So, my friend Marlisa emails me yesterday -- she is one of those cheerful people you love to have around -- and asks me what i'm craving as she is to cook for me Monday.
and the answer?
Nothing.
Nothing tastes good. Nothing sounds good.
Here's what I had to eat yesterday:
1/2 a breakfast taco and some oj
a hard boiled egg
3 pierogies
a little bit of tuna casserole that Linda brought by
that's it.
i would think, "well, maybe i could have such and so." and then i would look at it, and think, "nope, doesn't sound good."
DH went back to work today, so I'm alone today.
and the answer?
Nothing.
Nothing tastes good. Nothing sounds good.
Here's what I had to eat yesterday:
1/2 a breakfast taco and some oj
a hard boiled egg
3 pierogies
a little bit of tuna casserole that Linda brought by
that's it.
i would think, "well, maybe i could have such and so." and then i would look at it, and think, "nope, doesn't sound good."
DH went back to work today, so I'm alone today.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Tiling and Timing
So, I told you that Steve the Tile Guy had started tiling the master bath Thursday, as the carpet in there was ten years old and disgusting.
And can I just say I had no idea how much time and energy it took to tile a bathroom? Ours is pretty good-sized, but I figured it'd take 2-3 days.
I was wrong. Beause there's a whole lot more that goes into tiling a floor than I ever realized.
He worked Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. He took today off to give me a break, nice guy that he is.
I'm just glad I don't have diarrhea this time (so far) because our toilet is in the bathtub, and we have to use the girls' toilet. If I'd been SMART, I would have arranged for him to come a couple of weeks ago...
And can I just say I had no idea how much time and energy it took to tile a bathroom? Ours is pretty good-sized, but I figured it'd take 2-3 days.
I was wrong. Beause there's a whole lot more that goes into tiling a floor than I ever realized.
He worked Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. He took today off to give me a break, nice guy that he is.
I'm just glad I don't have diarrhea this time (so far) because our toilet is in the bathtub, and we have to use the girls' toilet. If I'd been SMART, I would have arranged for him to come a couple of weeks ago...
The DDs
The girls kind of like The First Week of Chemo, because they get farmed out to friends.
DD1 went to the Rosskey boys' house Monday, and got to eat PIZZA and watch NICKELODEON, but no one got slimed on the show, Mommy. Today, she went to Trevor's house, and got to help tie yellow ribbons on trees for a returning veteran who lives in the neighborhood. Tomorrow, is Savannah, and thursday is Zachary.
DD2 got to spend time with Megan yesterday, and Edie today, Caleb tomorrow, and Gracie Thursday.
So, they get to have fun with their friends, do different stuff than just watch TV and watch Mommy sleep.
Thanks to all the great moms out there for helping out!
DD1 went to the Rosskey boys' house Monday, and got to eat PIZZA and watch NICKELODEON, but no one got slimed on the show, Mommy. Today, she went to Trevor's house, and got to help tie yellow ribbons on trees for a returning veteran who lives in the neighborhood. Tomorrow, is Savannah, and thursday is Zachary.
DD2 got to spend time with Megan yesterday, and Edie today, Caleb tomorrow, and Gracie Thursday.
So, they get to have fun with their friends, do different stuff than just watch TV and watch Mommy sleep.
Thanks to all the great moms out there for helping out!
Tuesday, Day 1 After chemo #2
Today was ok. Felt pretty good. My friend Renee Abalos came by and drove me to some errands.
We mailed some girl scout cookies out of state, as DH has started grumbling about how long all the cookies have sat there.
We went to lunch. I had some french onion soup at La Madelaine -only thing that sounded good.
We got some stuff at Bath and Body Works. Did I remember my gift card? No.
Went to the onc for the Neulasta shot.
I did ok till I got the Neulasta shot (the one that makes your bone marrow produce white blood cells). Then i started feeling tired and achey again.
Then went to the grocery store for a few things, including Fruit Loops, as DD1 has informed me she would eat breakfast if only I purchased Fruit Loops.
Went home and rested. DH made me some mac and cheese a little bit later, and then some chicken noodle soup for supper.
Watched tv for a while, took a bath, read to the girls, tucked them in, and rested some more.
We mailed some girl scout cookies out of state, as DH has started grumbling about how long all the cookies have sat there.
We went to lunch. I had some french onion soup at La Madelaine -only thing that sounded good.
We got some stuff at Bath and Body Works. Did I remember my gift card? No.
Went to the onc for the Neulasta shot.
I did ok till I got the Neulasta shot (the one that makes your bone marrow produce white blood cells). Then i started feeling tired and achey again.
Then went to the grocery store for a few things, including Fruit Loops, as DD1 has informed me she would eat breakfast if only I purchased Fruit Loops.
Went home and rested. DH made me some mac and cheese a little bit later, and then some chicken noodle soup for supper.
Watched tv for a while, took a bath, read to the girls, tucked them in, and rested some more.
A Post For Ladies Only
If u are reading this and u are a guy, do so at your own risk.
u have been warned.
OK, ladies, can i just say that i was kind of hoping that one of the SEs of chemo would be a stoppage of all the period nonsense? i mean, really. that's the least my body could do.
Alas, no such luck. and, of course, i didn't find this out till i was on the retreat friday night with no supplies. luckily, a couple of the ladies lent me some pads until I could go to the little mercantile down the street Saturday morning. And all they had was regular sized tampons. which apparently absorb like 1/8 of a teaspoon, because i went thru HALF THE BOX over the weekend.
it's a little bit better today, but really. chemo and periods? please.
also, can i just tell you that it's not just the hair on your head that falls out? let's just say i won't need to pay for any Brazilian waxes any time soon.....
unfortunately, the hairs on my chin don't seem to have gotten the memo......
u have been warned.
OK, ladies, can i just say that i was kind of hoping that one of the SEs of chemo would be a stoppage of all the period nonsense? i mean, really. that's the least my body could do.
Alas, no such luck. and, of course, i didn't find this out till i was on the retreat friday night with no supplies. luckily, a couple of the ladies lent me some pads until I could go to the little mercantile down the street Saturday morning. And all they had was regular sized tampons. which apparently absorb like 1/8 of a teaspoon, because i went thru HALF THE BOX over the weekend.
it's a little bit better today, but really. chemo and periods? please.
also, can i just tell you that it's not just the hair on your head that falls out? let's just say i won't need to pay for any Brazilian waxes any time soon.....
unfortunately, the hairs on my chin don't seem to have gotten the memo......
Monday, April 16, 2007
Chemo #2
Had chemo #2 today. Grumpy Nurse wasn't there, praise God, just Funny Nurse and Friendly Nurse. My friend Dragana drove me. She arrived a load of fresh-baked banana bread from her sis, Vesna. Woohoo!
We stopped for smoothies, and then showed up. waited for half an hour, and then were ushered into our room. Took four hours, cuz i asked them to slow the Cytoxan down so i wouldn't get a headache. I'm drinking my smoothie, drinking my 3 liters of water, eating my fruit juice popcicles, and going potty. Going potty, like every ten-fifteen minutes. The rest of the time, I just dozed and listened to Harry Potter on tape.
Dragana left for a while to get her bike worked on for the MS150 this w/e. She came back with a piece of baklava (the world's most perfect dessert)! woohoo!
right now, i feel really sleepy and i have a bit of a headache.
We stopped for smoothies, and then showed up. waited for half an hour, and then were ushered into our room. Took four hours, cuz i asked them to slow the Cytoxan down so i wouldn't get a headache. I'm drinking my smoothie, drinking my 3 liters of water, eating my fruit juice popcicles, and going potty. Going potty, like every ten-fifteen minutes. The rest of the time, I just dozed and listened to Harry Potter on tape.
Dragana left for a while to get her bike worked on for the MS150 this w/e. She came back with a piece of baklava (the world's most perfect dessert)! woohoo!
right now, i feel really sleepy and i have a bit of a headache.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Sunday
Ate breakfast and scrapbooked.
Ate lunch, packed up and left.
Came home, was home about an hour, and then the DDs and i went to Disney Princesses on Ice. i took $80 out of the bank before we left, and honey, it's all gone.
My current cancer-related conundrum is, last chemo, I took Decadron, a steroid, before the chemo and a few days afterward. I went to CVS today to refill it, and there were no refills. I called the onc's answering service, and the onc never called me back. So now I don't know what to do....
Ate lunch, packed up and left.
Came home, was home about an hour, and then the DDs and i went to Disney Princesses on Ice. i took $80 out of the bank before we left, and honey, it's all gone.
My current cancer-related conundrum is, last chemo, I took Decadron, a steroid, before the chemo and a few days afterward. I went to CVS today to refill it, and there were no refills. I called the onc's answering service, and the onc never called me back. So now I don't know what to do....
Saturday
Was FREEZING. I'd packed a pair of jeans, so I wore those, but only short-sleeved shirts.
Ate breakfast and scrapbooked.
Ate lunch and scrapbooked. Rested for 20 minutes around 4, then Deanna, Kathy and I went to the Walmart in Brenham. Deanna for some photos, Kathy and I for a long-sleeved anything.
Went back to the B&B, ate supper and scrapbooked.
Ate breakfast and scrapbooked.
Ate lunch and scrapbooked. Rested for 20 minutes around 4, then Deanna, Kathy and I went to the Walmart in Brenham. Deanna for some photos, Kathy and I for a long-sleeved anything.
Went back to the B&B, ate supper and scrapbooked.
Friday
Friday, I tidied the house all day, then packed my suitcase and my scrapbooking stuff to go on my scrapbooking retreat. Went and got my blood tested, as I'm supposed to before chemo #2 on Monday.
Left around 5 with my friend Deanna to go to a B&B in Round Top, Texas, about an hour from here. We chatted, swung my Jack-in-the Box at Brenham for a snack (a sampler of fried things and a couple of sodas), and got there around 6:30.
Ate supper, during which I called my friend Emily in Dallas -- where they were having teacup-sized hail -- she was huddled under a stair with all the sentient beings in her household, but fine. And then we all trooped back to the main building where all our scrapbooking stuff was set up. And we scrapped away. All was fine until about 10:30 when the power went out. And stayed out.
By God's grace, there was a flashligh in the room, so we were able to traipse across the lane to the building where we were sleeping, brush our teeth by flashlight, and go to bed. I figured it was God's way of telling us to go to bed.
Lights came on in the middle of the night.
Left around 5 with my friend Deanna to go to a B&B in Round Top, Texas, about an hour from here. We chatted, swung my Jack-in-the Box at Brenham for a snack (a sampler of fried things and a couple of sodas), and got there around 6:30.
Ate supper, during which I called my friend Emily in Dallas -- where they were having teacup-sized hail -- she was huddled under a stair with all the sentient beings in her household, but fine. And then we all trooped back to the main building where all our scrapbooking stuff was set up. And we scrapped away. All was fine until about 10:30 when the power went out. And stayed out.
By God's grace, there was a flashligh in the room, so we were able to traipse across the lane to the building where we were sleeping, brush our teeth by flashlight, and go to bed. I figured it was God's way of telling us to go to bed.
Lights came on in the middle of the night.
Thursday
I don't remember Thursday, except sitting on the floor at gymnastics, sorting through a pile of clutter, looking for the necessary forms so we can file our taxes.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Today
this morning, i had a quiet time, ate b'fast (veggie omelet, fruit, croissants, bacon. asked the guy for some milk and he brought it in a cream pitcher. so i drank it from the cream pitcher), worked out in the exercise room at the hotel, sat in the whirlpool, and swam in the "heated" pool. had a kobe beef burger for lunch. mike's meeting was done by then, and i drove him back to work. then, picked up DD2 from school, dropped her off at Occupational Therapy, went home and met with Steve The Tile Guy who will be laying tile in our master bath, registered DD2 for k'garten at the public school just in case we can't afford the private school, picked up DD2, and came home to meet Steve TTG who came back with the tile and the grout and began to tear up the carpet. Which was a good thing, because in my absence, the cat had pooped in there SIX TIMES. sigh. so, i am a bit tired. we are feasting on Boston Market tonight, which Emily brought by. and i will be accumulating the necessary papers to file our taxes....
Tuesday
Dropped DD2 off at school, and then went to tour a Christian school that we're considering for DD2 next year. Nice school, nice people, however, my friend Deanna helped me realize (since I am math challenged) that since the school is 17.2 miles away from my house, i would be making 2 round trips there 5 times a week. Which is 68.8 miles a day, and 344 miles a week, and 1376 a month, if there are 4 weeks in that month. I get about 20 miles to the gallon, so that would be about 68 gallons of gas burned a month, and would add, if we factor in gas at $2.69/gallon, about $185 to the cost of tuition. Plus, as my dad would say, wear and tear on the car. So, unless we move closer or the cost of gas plummets, I don't think we're going to keep that school on the list of finalists.
Then I went to the Y to meet with a personal trainer (see previous post about healthy eating and exercise being my only options to keep a recurrence at bay). cute little 24-year-old guy. apparently the new thinking in training is that it has to be posture-based before u move on to resistance training. so you have to do these stretches and exercises to stretch out the muscles that get all knotted from doing the stuff you do all day. anyway, he said i had the best posture of anyone he'd tested so far. :D
then went to Sweet Tomatoes for lunch, checking for moving objects on the plate as a matter of course, and then went wig shopping again. which was a bootless inquisition (see previous post about my Big Ole Head). 1st place didn't have anything cute in my size, 2nd place was closed, and then i ran out of time and had to go pick up DD2.
DD2 and I came home, I checked email, and then packed her suitcase, DD1's suitcase, and my suitcase, fed the cats and fish, turned on some lights, and then packed up the car and dropped off DD2 at the Fabulous Jennifer's house. This girl barely knows me, but ever since I got diagnosed, she has been ever ready to help out. Her daughter -- truly a beautiful child inside and out -- is in DD2's class, and they live just down the street. Then dropped off DD1's suitcase at my friend Deanna's house. Deanna picked up her daughters and DD1 at school.
All of this because! DH and I got to spend the night last night at a hotel!
he had a meeting there at SIX THIRTY THIS MORNING, so he decided that it would be funner to spend the night there with me, rather than getting up at 5 and driving from home. it was fabulous. we rested for a while in the room and chatted, then went downstairs and ate. we shared a mediterranean appetizer, and he had some soup, and i had a lobster cake. then, the plan was, we would order room service dessert. but we went back, watched the last part of "House" and fell asleep during Fox News at 9. Like, the first part. 9:10, tops. woke up at three to turn off the lights and take off the contacts and go back to sleep.
Then I went to the Y to meet with a personal trainer (see previous post about healthy eating and exercise being my only options to keep a recurrence at bay). cute little 24-year-old guy. apparently the new thinking in training is that it has to be posture-based before u move on to resistance training. so you have to do these stretches and exercises to stretch out the muscles that get all knotted from doing the stuff you do all day. anyway, he said i had the best posture of anyone he'd tested so far. :D
then went to Sweet Tomatoes for lunch, checking for moving objects on the plate as a matter of course, and then went wig shopping again. which was a bootless inquisition (see previous post about my Big Ole Head). 1st place didn't have anything cute in my size, 2nd place was closed, and then i ran out of time and had to go pick up DD2.
DD2 and I came home, I checked email, and then packed her suitcase, DD1's suitcase, and my suitcase, fed the cats and fish, turned on some lights, and then packed up the car and dropped off DD2 at the Fabulous Jennifer's house. This girl barely knows me, but ever since I got diagnosed, she has been ever ready to help out. Her daughter -- truly a beautiful child inside and out -- is in DD2's class, and they live just down the street. Then dropped off DD1's suitcase at my friend Deanna's house. Deanna picked up her daughters and DD1 at school.
All of this because! DH and I got to spend the night last night at a hotel!
he had a meeting there at SIX THIRTY THIS MORNING, so he decided that it would be funner to spend the night there with me, rather than getting up at 5 and driving from home. it was fabulous. we rested for a while in the room and chatted, then went downstairs and ate. we shared a mediterranean appetizer, and he had some soup, and i had a lobster cake. then, the plan was, we would order room service dessert. but we went back, watched the last part of "House" and fell asleep during Fox News at 9. Like, the first part. 9:10, tops. woke up at three to turn off the lights and take off the contacts and go back to sleep.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Busy, Busy Day
Wake up at 8:15, yikes! Get both girls dressed, I throw on some clothes and a hat and we head out the door. Take DD1 to school, as she missed the bus, take DD2 to school. Go back to DD1's school for a Meet The New Principal hoohah. Leave there, go home, pack a lunch for DD2 and grab some makeup, as I look too, too pathetic if I'm bald and don't have any makeup on. Swing by DD2's school and drop off the lunch.
Get on the highway to go to the Red Oak location of the onc's ofc, for a nutrition appt. While i'm on the road, check my v/m, and there's a msg from the onc's ofc saying they need to push the appt back to 11:30. Fine, so I go by a restaurant by my old workplace. It's in northeast houston, haven't been there since 1998.
I get a salad - it's a salad bar restaurant -- take a few bites, look down at my plate, and THERE IS SOMETHING MOVING ON MY PLATE!!! A little green maggot-type thing just kind of waving its head around like, "Dude, what's goin' on?"
Gulp.
So I take my plate over to the checkout lady, and tell her the problem. She looks at me and says, "Sorry about that. Do you want another salad?"
No, I think I've had enough protein for today. (Here's your sign.) Just my money back, please.
Then, I go to my appt. And wait for AN HOUR and FIFTEEN minutes. And this appt, which should have lasted 30 min, lasted an hour.
So, when I leave the onc's ofc at 1:45, I realize:
a) today is the day I'm supposed to take DD2 to her Occupational Therapy appt at 2, and I am 30 minutes away from being able to pick her up from school
b) the girls have eye doctor appts today at 3 and 3:30, and I didn't put a note in DD1's backpack.
So, I call the OT and reschedule, and call the school and tell them I'm acomin'
Pick up both girls, go to eye dr, go get a burger (cuz I finally recovered my appetite, but I am eating something cooked, I can tell u that much) and come home at 5.
Whew!
Get on the highway to go to the Red Oak location of the onc's ofc, for a nutrition appt. While i'm on the road, check my v/m, and there's a msg from the onc's ofc saying they need to push the appt back to 11:30. Fine, so I go by a restaurant by my old workplace. It's in northeast houston, haven't been there since 1998.
I get a salad - it's a salad bar restaurant -- take a few bites, look down at my plate, and THERE IS SOMETHING MOVING ON MY PLATE!!! A little green maggot-type thing just kind of waving its head around like, "Dude, what's goin' on?"
Gulp.
So I take my plate over to the checkout lady, and tell her the problem. She looks at me and says, "Sorry about that. Do you want another salad?"
No, I think I've had enough protein for today. (Here's your sign.) Just my money back, please.
Then, I go to my appt. And wait for AN HOUR and FIFTEEN minutes. And this appt, which should have lasted 30 min, lasted an hour.
So, when I leave the onc's ofc at 1:45, I realize:
a) today is the day I'm supposed to take DD2 to her Occupational Therapy appt at 2, and I am 30 minutes away from being able to pick her up from school
b) the girls have eye doctor appts today at 3 and 3:30, and I didn't put a note in DD1's backpack.
So, I call the OT and reschedule, and call the school and tell them I'm acomin'
Pick up both girls, go to eye dr, go get a burger (cuz I finally recovered my appetite, but I am eating something cooked, I can tell u that much) and come home at 5.
Whew!
Happy Resurrection Day!
Went to church this morning. Music was awesome. All the lyrics meant so much to me. We started off with "Christ the Lord Is Risen Today" and it has lyrics like, "where o death is now thy sting?" and I just started crying.
Not that I'm dying, prognosis is good, blablabla, but any time you have cancer, you face the fact of your own mortality. And I am so grateful that I know where I'm going if I do die -- straight in the arms of Jesus.
I'm too lazy to get up and get the camera and download the pics of me and DDs before church, but I will -- y'all can see my $30 hair.....
My oldest friend Michelle -- we've know each other since we were in 7th grade -- a LONG time ao -- sent me some hats in the mail, so of course I had to wear one to church! I wore long sleeves, since our little cold spell continues. The DDS insisted on wearing summer dresses, so I made them wear sweaters over them, and coats over that.
After church, we went to a friend's house, who opened her house up to hordes of people. Brave woman. We had Easter dinner, and then the kids had an egg hunt in the back yard, complete with Prize Eggs. It was awesome.
Then we came home, and I basically rested for the rest of the day. Fell asleep about nine, and DD1 just woke me up because DD2 was crying because one of her prizes from the egg hunt had fallen between the bed and the wall....
Not that I'm dying, prognosis is good, blablabla, but any time you have cancer, you face the fact of your own mortality. And I am so grateful that I know where I'm going if I do die -- straight in the arms of Jesus.
I'm too lazy to get up and get the camera and download the pics of me and DDs before church, but I will -- y'all can see my $30 hair.....
My oldest friend Michelle -- we've know each other since we were in 7th grade -- a LONG time ao -- sent me some hats in the mail, so of course I had to wear one to church! I wore long sleeves, since our little cold spell continues. The DDS insisted on wearing summer dresses, so I made them wear sweaters over them, and coats over that.
After church, we went to a friend's house, who opened her house up to hordes of people. Brave woman. We had Easter dinner, and then the kids had an egg hunt in the back yard, complete with Prize Eggs. It was awesome.
Then we came home, and I basically rested for the rest of the day. Fell asleep about nine, and DD1 just woke me up because DD2 was crying because one of her prizes from the egg hunt had fallen between the bed and the wall....
Saturday, April 7, 2007
The Hair, She Is Gone. Mostly.
Today was the Day of Shaving. Hair was coming out right and left (yuk), so I met Wendy the Hairdresser around 12:30 to shave my head. She got it as close as she could with the electric razor -- we didn't want to use a regular razor because of the risk of infection if I got cut. So here it is:
from short to shorter....
So, expect me wear a lot of makeup for the next few months.
Today was COLD in the Houston area. Like, dig out your winter coat and long-sleeved clothes cold. So, I wore a do-rag and baseball cap to the Easter Egg Hunt this morning, and once we got home, I wore this Lycra cap my mom made me. Being bald is cold!
Friday, April 6, 2007
Today
Went to take pics among the bluebonnets today at the Antique Rose Emporium. We ate hot dogs there, and took many pics, and then went to the Blue Bell factory to eat ice cream at $1 a scoop. 
It was fun, but I slept all the way home (~40 minute drive). Sure glad I wasn't driving!
It was fun, but I slept all the way home (~40 minute drive). Sure glad I wasn't driving!Didn't get my head shaved today, as I was too tired. It's on the schedule for tomorrow...
Came home, and messed around on the computer, and then watched The Blue Collar Comedy Tour.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Busy, Busy Angel
DH and I went wig shopping today. He found a trash can half full of my hair this morning, 'cause I keep pulling it out, so he decided to take a vacation day and go wig shopping with me.
First shop I went to, lady was a talker. We were there for an hour, and I only tried on 4 wigs.
As you may have suspected, I have a Big Head. This apparently drastically lowers the number of wigs available to me. To like, three. None of which I liked. One of them made me look like Louise Mandrell. The others, like Sandy Duncan or Reba. Bleuagh. Now, I can apparently have an average size wig made into a large wig for $100 extra. Plus it takes 8-9 weeks. So, no thanks.
Bought a cheapie one at the second wig place we visited to wear to church on Sunday. Third place had 1 I kind of liked, but it was$129, and I didn't want to spend that much on something I just kind of liked.
I hope to go on Monday with my friend Mindy to the other 4 shops I didn't get to today.
The hair continues to fall out, so when DD1 came home, I put a chair out in the front lawn, handed her a pair of scissors, and told her to go to town. So she cut my hair while DD2 took pictures. DD2 got to cut a little bit, too, but then she wanted to go back inside and watch TV.
I'll go get it shaved tomorrow...
First shop I went to, lady was a talker. We were there for an hour, and I only tried on 4 wigs.
As you may have suspected, I have a Big Head. This apparently drastically lowers the number of wigs available to me. To like, three. None of which I liked. One of them made me look like Louise Mandrell. The others, like Sandy Duncan or Reba. Bleuagh. Now, I can apparently have an average size wig made into a large wig for $100 extra. Plus it takes 8-9 weeks. So, no thanks.
Bought a cheapie one at the second wig place we visited to wear to church on Sunday. Third place had 1 I kind of liked, but it was$129, and I didn't want to spend that much on something I just kind of liked.
I hope to go on Monday with my friend Mindy to the other 4 shops I didn't get to today.
The hair continues to fall out, so when DD1 came home, I put a chair out in the front lawn, handed her a pair of scissors, and told her to go to town. So she cut my hair while DD2 took pictures. DD2 got to cut a little bit, too, but then she wanted to go back inside and watch TV.
I'll go get it shaved tomorrow...
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Busy Angel
There's a verse in the Bible that says we are so precious to God, that even the very hairs on our head are all numbered. Well, the angel in charge of keeping track of my hair count is probably pretty busy, as the number keeps going down....
I woke up this morning, and tugged on my hair, and half of it came out....of course, my hair is so thick, you can't even tell, but still, the hair, she is not long for this world....
I woke up this morning, and tugged on my hair, and half of it came out....of course, my hair is so thick, you can't even tell, but still, the hair, she is not long for this world....
Scrapbooking!
I just heard from the onc's office this afternoon, and I'll be able to push back my next tx to Monday the 16th! This will enable me to go on the scrapbooking retreat that
A) I'd been looking forward to for months
B) I'd already paid for back in January, before all this hoohah started
The retreat is hosted by Debbie, one of my best friends in Houston, and I'll be roomies with Deanna, another one of my best friends in Houston. We'll be staying at a B&B in Brenham, about 40 miles from Houston.
The only drawback is that I'll have to go back to the Red Oak office :( for the tx, but maybe Grumpy Nurse won't be quite so grumpy this time.
Also, DH will not be able to go with me, so I'll need someone to drive me.
A) I'd been looking forward to for months
B) I'd already paid for back in January, before all this hoohah started
The retreat is hosted by Debbie, one of my best friends in Houston, and I'll be roomies with Deanna, another one of my best friends in Houston. We'll be staying at a B&B in Brenham, about 40 miles from Houston.
The only drawback is that I'll have to go back to the Red Oak office :( for the tx, but maybe Grumpy Nurse won't be quite so grumpy this time.
Also, DH will not be able to go with me, so I'll need someone to drive me.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Kind of a Boring Day, Really
Didn't do too much. Packed lunches and got the girls off to school. Came back home and read the paper and ate breakfast. Read my bible and prayed. Talked to DH, who stayed home sick. Checked email. Ate lunch. Picked up the pics of my and the DDs. Picked up DD2 from school and went to buy some crocs.
Other than that, just rested.
Oh, the cards the Brownies made me? All of them very supportive except for DD1's, which said "Try not to make a mess when you throw up, Mommy."
Other than that, just rested.
Oh, the cards the Brownies made me? All of them very supportive except for DD1's, which said "Try not to make a mess when you throw up, Mommy."
Monday, April 2, 2007
SE of the Week
This is like being an old person, when someone asks you how you are, and you just give them the list of what's wrong with you....
Anyway, my scalp has started tingling, hurting, and itching. It's only a matter of time now....
Inside of my nose and mouth is sore.
Woohoo! The fun continues!
Anyway, my scalp has started tingling, hurting, and itching. It's only a matter of time now....
Inside of my nose and mouth is sore.
Woohoo! The fun continues!
The Awesomeness Continues...
So i go tonight to pick up DD1 from Brownies, and lo and behold, I was their Project. They were earning some sort of service badge, and so each of the girls made me a card, and they made spaghetti for us to eat tomorrow night!
One of my MILs sent us a box with 2 Godiva Easter bunnies, and a box of Godiva chocolate biscuits. They were, however, not labeled as to what went to whom. I sure hope the girls like those biscuits, 'cause DH and I are eating those bunnies....
One of my MILs sent us a box with 2 Godiva Easter bunnies, and a box of Godiva chocolate biscuits. They were, however, not labeled as to what went to whom. I sure hope the girls like those biscuits, 'cause DH and I are eating those bunnies....
I Did Too Much
I am just mind blowingly tired today. I had planned on finishing a play for the 10x10 Playwriting Competition (deadline is tonight), but just didn't have it in me. Was planning on going to Kohl's to return some dresses that I have been informed are Too Itchy, but nope, not up to it.
There are some amazing women out there, y'all. We have been the recipient of some amazing meals, with things like homemade jam and fresh picked strawberries....
Today's meal came complete with 2 balloons for the girls, some gerbera daisies, and some bunny-shaped brownies....
Then another friend called and basically insisted I tell her what we needed from the grocery store.
I am so blessed. Everything has two sides to it. Chemo is yucky, but the good side of it is showing itself to me every day, in the care and concern manifested by those around me. And this care and concern is not just from my nearest friends. It's being manifested by those who don't know me that well. Y'all are awesome.
There are some amazing women out there, y'all. We have been the recipient of some amazing meals, with things like homemade jam and fresh picked strawberries....
Today's meal came complete with 2 balloons for the girls, some gerbera daisies, and some bunny-shaped brownies....
Then another friend called and basically insisted I tell her what we needed from the grocery store.
I am so blessed. Everything has two sides to it. Chemo is yucky, but the good side of it is showing itself to me every day, in the care and concern manifested by those around me. And this care and concern is not just from my nearest friends. It's being manifested by those who don't know me that well. Y'all are awesome.
Sunday, April 1, 2007
The Joys of a Normal Day
Today wasn't quite a normal Sunday. DH didn't want me exposed to the germs at church, and his stomach was upset, so no one went to church today.
I took a nap mid-morning, but after that, I really felt pretty good. The girls rode their bikes around the retention pond, while I walked. (!) First physical exercise post-tx.
Then DD1 had a bday party at Chuck E Cheese, so I took the girls there, and gave DD2 some tokens of her own so she could play, too. I sat and read and ate 2 platefuls of salad while they played. I basically have eaten nothing but simple carbs for a week, as that was all that sounded good, so my body was like, "Yo, get me some veggies, man."
Then, after Chuck E Cheese (AKA Chaos On Earth), we went to Penney's as they were having a sale and got the girls some summer clothes. I looked at dresses for me, found 2 I liked, but one showed the scar where my port is, and the other had elastic under the bodice. That is the kind of dress that will make well-meaning people far and wide say, "When is your baby due?" Sigh.
So I hope this week will be a pretty normal week for me, and I can get some stuff done, like put away the fall/winter clothes, and wash all the spring/summer ones.
It feels good to feel good again.
I took a nap mid-morning, but after that, I really felt pretty good. The girls rode their bikes around the retention pond, while I walked. (!) First physical exercise post-tx.
Then DD1 had a bday party at Chuck E Cheese, so I took the girls there, and gave DD2 some tokens of her own so she could play, too. I sat and read and ate 2 platefuls of salad while they played. I basically have eaten nothing but simple carbs for a week, as that was all that sounded good, so my body was like, "Yo, get me some veggies, man."
Then, after Chuck E Cheese (AKA Chaos On Earth), we went to Penney's as they were having a sale and got the girls some summer clothes. I looked at dresses for me, found 2 I liked, but one showed the scar where my port is, and the other had elastic under the bodice. That is the kind of dress that will make well-meaning people far and wide say, "When is your baby due?" Sigh.
So I hope this week will be a pretty normal week for me, and I can get some stuff done, like put away the fall/winter clothes, and wash all the spring/summer ones.
It feels good to feel good again.
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