I think I have mentioned Priscilla before. She is the research nurse assigned to me. I call her before I take any medicines or if I am having anything unusual going on. And I have to report in daily when I am having GI issues (or any issues for that matter). That is part of the clinical trial. They keep very close tabs on me. Aside from it being her job to care for me, Priscilla is an angel and cares SO much....she is wonderful and a huge blessing to me. I am so lucky to have her.
Needless to say, I had lots to tell her this morning about my weekend and what was going on with me physically. She said not to take my chemo pills tonight and she would get back to me.
Priscilla just called. NO CHEMO TOMORROW! I could weep I am so thrilled! Dr. O feels like I have had enough......we have pushed my body to its limits. Oh, I am so happy to be done with this phase.
I went for my surgery pre-admissions appointment this morning. They got all my pre-tests done: blood work, EKG, blood pressure, etc. My blood pressure was too low so I will have to go back again this week to try again. I am sure it is just because I am so weak. But not for long...!!!!! YAHOOOOOO! I can get my legs under me and be ready for surgery. Oh, I am so happy!
xoxo to you all!!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
10, 9, 8....
I am really in the countdown now!! Praise God! I am finally letting myself anticipate, with joy, the end of this retched phase of treatment.
I have been blindsided this time around. With my FEC75 I knew I would feel terrible the first day and several days after. But then I slowly felt better each day. I was nauseous throughout but I could rally and get up and feel like a somewhat functioning human being, albeit one with a colossal "hangover"-type sick feeling. With this weekly treatment, or maybe the combo of this and my nightly pills, it has been a whole new dreadful ball of wax. I feel fine the day of chemo and the day after (because of the steroids, I think). But it is down hill the rest of the week. And each week it has gotten so much worse. It is indescribable....my skin feels like I have shingles (even the lightest, softest cotton hurts), deep bone & muscle pain, my gums are swollen and I swear my teeth feel loose (lol), nasty issues with my fingers & toe nails, and oh so much more that I just won't go in to.
This past week frightened me though. The worst day was Friday. It even hurt to moan. It scared Oscar, which made me want to jump up and tap dance just to stop his fear. But I physically could not. It was heart wrenching and, to date, it was the hardest part of this whole process. Not my pain but his worry. God blessed me with these beautiful children to love and protect. It is my job to insulate them and shelter them and make them feel safe in their world. And there was my precious, delicate boy asking me if I was dying. It is too much for a 6 year old. At 3 years old Angelica is less aware and easier distracted. I tell her mommy is okay and she is happy to run off and chase Oddie. Oscar wouldn't leave my side. He crawled in bed with me and would not leave.
Suffice to say, I made arrangements for help the later part of next week (when it is the worst). I made the arrangements while I still remembered how bad it was. I think once I start to feel better I tend to forget how terrible it is (was) and I think I can handle it. No, I can't. I cry uncle and will not be alone the later part of next week...for the sake of my children. By the way, I know that the "forgetting how bad it was" part is just another gift from God (right, otherwise every family would only have 1 child....lol...forgetting the pain of childbirth).
Okay, so I made it until my second-to-last treatment before I hit a wall, metaphorically speaking. There are some women, young woman even, who feel like this after 2 or 3 treatments. There are some woman who end up with walkers or wheelchairs by their 4th or 5th treatment. Once again, God has taken SUCH amazing care of me!! I praise Him daily for being faithful to His Word. He has it all under control and in His perfect plan we will survive. Oscar will come through this stronger and even more empathetic. I will be a better mom, person, friend and Christian. Angelica will be even more buoyant. Hell, maybe even Oddie will stop peeing on the carpet. Hallelujah!!!!!
Thank you all my faithful friends....thank you for checking in and for being with me on this journey. I could not do it without your love, your support, your healing thoughts and all your prayers.
xoxo
I have been blindsided this time around. With my FEC75 I knew I would feel terrible the first day and several days after. But then I slowly felt better each day. I was nauseous throughout but I could rally and get up and feel like a somewhat functioning human being, albeit one with a colossal "hangover"-type sick feeling. With this weekly treatment, or maybe the combo of this and my nightly pills, it has been a whole new dreadful ball of wax. I feel fine the day of chemo and the day after (because of the steroids, I think). But it is down hill the rest of the week. And each week it has gotten so much worse. It is indescribable....my skin feels like I have shingles (even the lightest, softest cotton hurts), deep bone & muscle pain, my gums are swollen and I swear my teeth feel loose (lol), nasty issues with my fingers & toe nails, and oh so much more that I just won't go in to.
This past week frightened me though. The worst day was Friday. It even hurt to moan. It scared Oscar, which made me want to jump up and tap dance just to stop his fear. But I physically could not. It was heart wrenching and, to date, it was the hardest part of this whole process. Not my pain but his worry. God blessed me with these beautiful children to love and protect. It is my job to insulate them and shelter them and make them feel safe in their world. And there was my precious, delicate boy asking me if I was dying. It is too much for a 6 year old. At 3 years old Angelica is less aware and easier distracted. I tell her mommy is okay and she is happy to run off and chase Oddie. Oscar wouldn't leave my side. He crawled in bed with me and would not leave.
Suffice to say, I made arrangements for help the later part of next week (when it is the worst). I made the arrangements while I still remembered how bad it was. I think once I start to feel better I tend to forget how terrible it is (was) and I think I can handle it. No, I can't. I cry uncle and will not be alone the later part of next week...for the sake of my children. By the way, I know that the "forgetting how bad it was" part is just another gift from God (right, otherwise every family would only have 1 child....lol...forgetting the pain of childbirth).
Okay, so I made it until my second-to-last treatment before I hit a wall, metaphorically speaking. There are some women, young woman even, who feel like this after 2 or 3 treatments. There are some woman who end up with walkers or wheelchairs by their 4th or 5th treatment. Once again, God has taken SUCH amazing care of me!! I praise Him daily for being faithful to His Word. He has it all under control and in His perfect plan we will survive. Oscar will come through this stronger and even more empathetic. I will be a better mom, person, friend and Christian. Angelica will be even more buoyant. Hell, maybe even Oddie will stop peeing on the carpet. Hallelujah!!!!!
Thank you all my faithful friends....thank you for checking in and for being with me on this journey. I could not do it without your love, your support, your healing thoughts and all your prayers.
xoxo
Friday, April 17, 2009
The latest
Things are falling off my radar and I am forgetting to post so let me try to catch y'all up.
Most important on my health news front is that my surgery has been moved up to May 5. I will be in the hospital for a short stay: 2 nights. Then home to recover. My sisters Megan and Suzanne will be here to help me. I take such comfort in knowing you will all be with me in spirit. Thank you!
I also want to make a request. I hope this doesn't sound presumptuous but, knowing you guys, there may be a temptation to send me flowers. Please don't. They are so expensive and so temporary. Please, if you are thinking about sending flowers, please take that money and give it to someone with a hardship...please give it to someone who has lost their job or is financially strapped. I feel your love and support and prayers. I am humbled and grateful and full to the brim. It is all I need. Thank you, dear friends.
It took me a little while to get my brain around how fast they want to operate but it is overall great news for one very important reason: I have to take my daily chemo pills up until the day before surgery. So only 17 more days of those pills. That in itself makes the accelerated "plan" wonderful in my book! :)
I have been struggling. There is no point droning over my litany of maladies...they are all short term and, honestly, I am too tired to talk (or write) about them all. It is just part of the deal. Chemo sucks and it is cumulative. So they are taking me to the edge of hell. And it is all for my long-term good health. I am blessed!
I rarely request prayers. You are all so generous that I don't need to. My sweet Oscar is having a hard time. The loss he has suffered in his short life would bring the strongest of grown men to their knees. He is more aware than Angelica. He is scared and it breaks my heart. Please pray for peace and comfort for him during the next couple months, especially during the time of my surgery. Thank you.
xoxo
Most important on my health news front is that my surgery has been moved up to May 5. I will be in the hospital for a short stay: 2 nights. Then home to recover. My sisters Megan and Suzanne will be here to help me. I take such comfort in knowing you will all be with me in spirit. Thank you!
I also want to make a request. I hope this doesn't sound presumptuous but, knowing you guys, there may be a temptation to send me flowers. Please don't. They are so expensive and so temporary. Please, if you are thinking about sending flowers, please take that money and give it to someone with a hardship...please give it to someone who has lost their job or is financially strapped. I feel your love and support and prayers. I am humbled and grateful and full to the brim. It is all I need. Thank you, dear friends.
It took me a little while to get my brain around how fast they want to operate but it is overall great news for one very important reason: I have to take my daily chemo pills up until the day before surgery. So only 17 more days of those pills. That in itself makes the accelerated "plan" wonderful in my book! :)
I have been struggling. There is no point droning over my litany of maladies...they are all short term and, honestly, I am too tired to talk (or write) about them all. It is just part of the deal. Chemo sucks and it is cumulative. So they are taking me to the edge of hell. And it is all for my long-term good health. I am blessed!
I rarely request prayers. You are all so generous that I don't need to. My sweet Oscar is having a hard time. The loss he has suffered in his short life would bring the strongest of grown men to their knees. He is more aware than Angelica. He is scared and it breaks my heart. Please pray for peace and comfort for him during the next couple months, especially during the time of my surgery. Thank you.
xoxo
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Wow...
I am sure you have seen this, but WOW!! I saw it on the news yesterday and just pulled it off You Tube (had to link it, no embed available). Click here: Susan Boyle
I am such a mush.....I completely lost it...boo hooing. LOVE THIS!! She has such chutzpah!!
xoxo
p.s. Mark, how did I do with the link opening in a new window? :)
p.s.s. Check out her eyebrows. Aren't they glorious? I am green with envy...seriously! lol
I am such a mush.....I completely lost it...boo hooing. LOVE THIS!! She has such chutzpah!!
xoxo
p.s. Mark, how did I do with the link opening in a new window? :)
p.s.s. Check out her eyebrows. Aren't they glorious? I am green with envy...seriously! lol
Big girl
I woke last night (this morning) around 3:30 a.m. to the sound of feet in the hallway. It was Angelica making her way to the potty. She did her business, toddled back to bed, and was instantly back asleep. SHE IS 3 YEARS OLD!! The most incredible thing is that she has been doing this for several months now. I am amazed daily by her!
Jane-O, recognize the glasses from our RV trip...? LOL!!!
I have so many things to post...updates from my oncologist appointment yesterday, medical news from the past week and, MOST important, Easter stories about sweet Oscar and Angelica. But I have not had the energy. Scary. How much energy does it take to sit down at the computer, you ask (or at least that's what I would be thinking)? And the truth is folding a load of clothes and putting them away in drawers requires a 2-hour nap these days. It's short term...and I am almost there.
I will post again very soon.
xoxo
Sunday, April 12, 2009
5 years ago today
I got an e-mail from our Guatemalan family, the Vela's, today reminding me that is was around 5 years ago that I flew into Guatemala City to meet Oscar for the first time. I can't remember exactly but it was very close to Semana Santa (Holy Week). For those of you not familiar with it, Antigua Guatemala hosts the most beautiful religious celebration in the Americas. It is very busy in Guatemala around Easter. And there I was...scared to death, by myself, flying to Central America with nearly no notice, arriving among mobs of people. But it was perfect because I was soon with the Vela's and OSCAR!!!
The Vela's were Oscar's foster family and they love Oscar & our family very much. And we love them back...very much!! We are so blessed to still have them in our lives. Before I started Angelica's adoption, Oscar & I used to travel to Guatemala to see them on his birthday each year. They have been to visit us each year. Then when I was in the process of bringing Angelica home we were fortunate to see them many times. Now it looks like they may come visit in November. Yipppeeeeeeeeee!!!
They are such a special family!!! They will always be a HUGE part of our lives!
Here are some pictures of my precious, delightful Oscar when I first met him.
Here is the Vela family (except Tata is missing). From left to right: gorgeous Abuela, beautiful, sweet, smart Liza, Oscar & I, and lovely, kind, awesome Jandy.
The Vela's were Oscar's foster family and they love Oscar & our family very much. And we love them back...very much!! We are so blessed to still have them in our lives. Before I started Angelica's adoption, Oscar & I used to travel to Guatemala to see them on his birthday each year. They have been to visit us each year. Then when I was in the process of bringing Angelica home we were fortunate to see them many times. Now it looks like they may come visit in November. Yipppeeeeeeeeee!!!
They are such a special family!!! They will always be a HUGE part of our lives!
Here are some pictures of my precious, delightful Oscar when I first met him.
Here is the Vela family (except Tata is missing). From left to right: gorgeous Abuela, beautiful, sweet, smart Liza, Oscar & I, and lovely, kind, awesome Jandy.
And here is my sweet Oscar this year. He is an absolute joy to me!
Jandy, recognize the shirt? :)
xoxo
xoxo
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Senior moment
Chemo went fine today and I was blessed with the wonderful company of Megan, Julie and Carrie. I am officially in the countdown. Three more weeks left of infusions and 4 weeks left of pills.
Something funny happened a little while back that I just have to share with you. Cracks me up to think about it. My very sweet, elderly neighbor guy came over to bring me dinner. Here is how the conversation went:
Nice elderly neighbor: Heard you were sick. The wife madejya supper.
Me: Thank you so much!
Nice elderly neighbor (as he watches Oscar play in the front yard): Yer boy is gettin' big.
Me: Yes, his is six.
Nice elderly neighbor: I know yer sick, thaswhy we brought you supper.
pause
Me (trying not to laugh): No, my son, he is getting to be a big boy. He is six.
* * * crickets chirping * * *
Nice elderly neighbor: Yeah, but you'll be well soon 'nough.
I lost the battle to not bust out laughing. He looked at me like I had 3 heads. I just imagine the conversation with his wife when he gets home. Something along the lines of how their odd neighbor is sick and keeps repeating herself and then cackling maniacally. Oh my....that hit my funny bone.
I am so lucky to have Megan here. I cannot describe how she lightens my load emotionally and physically. Between all of us....me, God, my sisters, my friends, all of you guys....we can finish this phase of the race with grace. Thank you for being with me, Megan and all of you, and for lifting me up.
My surgery is scheduled for May 27.
xoxo
Something funny happened a little while back that I just have to share with you. Cracks me up to think about it. My very sweet, elderly neighbor guy came over to bring me dinner. Here is how the conversation went:
Nice elderly neighbor: Heard you were sick. The wife madejya supper.
Me: Thank you so much!
Nice elderly neighbor (as he watches Oscar play in the front yard): Yer boy is gettin' big.
Me: Yes, his is six.
Nice elderly neighbor: I know yer sick, thaswhy we brought you supper.
pause
Me (trying not to laugh): No, my son, he is getting to be a big boy. He is six.
* * * crickets chirping * * *
Nice elderly neighbor: Yeah, but you'll be well soon 'nough.
I lost the battle to not bust out laughing. He looked at me like I had 3 heads. I just imagine the conversation with his wife when he gets home. Something along the lines of how their odd neighbor is sick and keeps repeating herself and then cackling maniacally. Oh my....that hit my funny bone.
I am so lucky to have Megan here. I cannot describe how she lightens my load emotionally and physically. Between all of us....me, God, my sisters, my friends, all of you guys....we can finish this phase of the race with grace. Thank you for being with me, Megan and all of you, and for lifting me up.
My surgery is scheduled for May 27.
xoxo
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Megan
The cavalry has arrived. My sister Megan came in on Friday and will be here until Wednesday. I am so glad on so many levels that she is here. She is such a great friend, sister and aunt. I thoroughly enjoy every second we spend together. As most of you know, she & I are twins except we were born 15 months apart.
I am so tired. I have been fatigued to the point of tunnel vision on a couple occassions. It is scary. I do not know what is going on with my body other than just the toxic affects of the chemos piling up. I will ask the doctors about it on Tuesday.
In the meantime, I am getting daily laughter medicine with Megan here. The best yet was laying on the couch watching her first attempt at Wii Fit hula hoops. I was laughing so hard...my whole body was in pain, unable to breath, tears pouring down my face....and just the thought that these days laughing could hurt so much made me laugh that much harder. I thought we were going to have to call 911.
xoxo
I am so tired. I have been fatigued to the point of tunnel vision on a couple occassions. It is scary. I do not know what is going on with my body other than just the toxic affects of the chemos piling up. I will ask the doctors about it on Tuesday.
In the meantime, I am getting daily laughter medicine with Megan here. The best yet was laying on the couch watching her first attempt at Wii Fit hula hoops. I was laughing so hard...my whole body was in pain, unable to breath, tears pouring down my face....and just the thought that these days laughing could hurt so much made me laugh that much harder. I thought we were going to have to call 911.
xoxo
Thursday, April 2, 2009
The picture of Spring...
My sweetest girl painted her face and neck with princess pink and purple play makeup. The photos don't justice to the color palette on her face. Priceless! I am certain she can do wonders for my face. I am about to go let her try.
xoxo
xoxo
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Urgent Update About Moons Family Blog
You will be redirected to urgent information about this blog in a few seconds...
;-)
;-)
Monday, March 30, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sharpie
My sister was having a bit of permanent marker issues this morning. It reminded me of this photo someone sent me a long time ago. Can you imagine!?!?!? Hopefully this marker was washable. LOL
Click on the photo to view it closer detail.
Anyway, I wanted to share an evil little laugh with you all this morning.
xoxo
Click on the photo to view it closer detail.
Anyway, I wanted to share an evil little laugh with you all this morning.
xoxo
Thursday, March 26, 2009
I laughed, I cried....
...but mostly I have been absolutely speechless for most of the afternoon (in itself such a rare thing). What has caused this emotion eruption of the very best kind, you ask. Well, it is a little something called a VOICE QUILT. And there is nothing little about it. It is one of the greatest, most wonderful packages I think I have ever received.
Susan, thank you for making this happen.
Oh, you guys....you have no idea how much this gift meant to me. I am simply blown away. I wish I could reach out and personally touch each of you the way you have touched me. Your kind words and songs and jokes and stories have fueled me like never before. Your timing is great as I have been struggling. I am just flabbergasted. It is so wonderful.
You, my dear friends and family, are the reason I can endure. You support me, you hold me up, you sustain me, you bolster me, you encourage me, and you love me. For this and for all you do, I am forever grateful!
xoxo
Susan, thank you for making this happen.
Oh, you guys....you have no idea how much this gift meant to me. I am simply blown away. I wish I could reach out and personally touch each of you the way you have touched me. Your kind words and songs and jokes and stories have fueled me like never before. Your timing is great as I have been struggling. I am just flabbergasted. It is so wonderful.
You, my dear friends and family, are the reason I can endure. You support me, you hold me up, you sustain me, you bolster me, you encourage me, and you love me. For this and for all you do, I am forever grateful!
xoxo
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
I am cancer-free. That is not a clinical or pathological finding but rather a Maureen know-it-in-my-heart-and-guts-and-bones diagnosis. But I have to have my surgery and complete my treatments that will go through December or January...then the doctors will confirm what I already know.
I know you all know how serious I am taking this clinical trial. It is such a source of pride for me. My success will really help this project, I am sure of it. And while the Tykerb is not a new drug, this protocol (neoadjunct) could save lives. I truly believe it. And in God's Plan, maybe this was my purpose. But I have hit a bit of a wall. I feel toxic....seriously noxious is just the best way to describe how I have felt the last several weeks. The diarrhea, the mouth sores, the bad taste in my mouth and horrid breath, the fatigue, the lack of taste, the bumps all over my face and body, and the coup de grâce for me was losing a toe nail. Gross. We all know our bodies and mine is screaming "enough!". I have had another break from the pills (4 days now) but I start up again tomorrow. I dread waking up to take them in the morning.
So I saw Dr. O’Shaughnessy yesterday and had my chemo. My blood work shows I am very anemic, hence my recent extreme fatigue. They also think I will have a 2 hour drip of magnesium in my port later this week or during my chemo next week to help with other deficiencies. So starting an Iron supplement and the magnesium drip will help. But I have done so well so far. Hell, I made it through not 1 but 2 bouts of flu with the kids and never got it. Seriously!!! That is amazing and I thank God for my wonderful body and for taking care of me through all this. And most importantly...I AM IN THE HOMESTRETCH. I have 5 months of these drugs under my belt and only 5 weeks left to go! yahoooooooo!!!
Thank you all for your loving support....I am so very grateful. You carry me. You are the reason for my success and that is the truth!
xoxo
I know you all know how serious I am taking this clinical trial. It is such a source of pride for me. My success will really help this project, I am sure of it. And while the Tykerb is not a new drug, this protocol (neoadjunct) could save lives. I truly believe it. And in God's Plan, maybe this was my purpose. But I have hit a bit of a wall. I feel toxic....seriously noxious is just the best way to describe how I have felt the last several weeks. The diarrhea, the mouth sores, the bad taste in my mouth and horrid breath, the fatigue, the lack of taste, the bumps all over my face and body, and the coup de grâce for me was losing a toe nail. Gross. We all know our bodies and mine is screaming "enough!". I have had another break from the pills (4 days now) but I start up again tomorrow. I dread waking up to take them in the morning.
So I saw Dr. O’Shaughnessy yesterday and had my chemo. My blood work shows I am very anemic, hence my recent extreme fatigue. They also think I will have a 2 hour drip of magnesium in my port later this week or during my chemo next week to help with other deficiencies. So starting an Iron supplement and the magnesium drip will help. But I have done so well so far. Hell, I made it through not 1 but 2 bouts of flu with the kids and never got it. Seriously!!! That is amazing and I thank God for my wonderful body and for taking care of me through all this. And most importantly...I AM IN THE HOMESTRETCH. I have 5 months of these drugs under my belt and only 5 weeks left to go! yahoooooooo!!!
Thank you all for your loving support....I am so very grateful. You carry me. You are the reason for my success and that is the truth!
xoxo
Monday, March 23, 2009
Long time, no talk...
It feels like a long time but I guess it was just a week. I missed everyone.
So, we are back from our adventure. Here's the scoop. Last year, a lifetime ago, I have booked a Springbreak trip for me and the kids to go to Atlantis. Oscar and I went when he was 3 years old and it was glorious. We had a great time. Oscar even snorkled like a CHAMP! Here he is, my brave little fish.
Anyway, the closer the trip got the more it seemed we would not be able to go. For starters, I thought I was getting money BACK on my taxes, but instead I owe. Aughhhh! Then my oncologist said that I cannot leave the country. So we switched to Destin, Florida to stay closer to home and to save money.
It was ambitious of me. Really. I guess I have such grandiose illusions that I can do anything. I am not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing. It just does not occur to me that traveling through airports and renting a car and lugging all our bags and 2 kids is something that will be hard. Forget the fact that I had chemo on Monday and left on Tuesday. It was very hard getting there and very, very hard getting home. But worth it! We spent several days on the beach, took a boat ride, saw dolphins swimming in the wild, made sandcastles, buried each other in the sand and just had a great time. I am most proud of myself for not freaking out about spending the money. Okay, well maybe a little bit...
Walking throught the airport Oscar's front tooth FINALLY fell out so that was fun too!
Another really neat thing that happened was we meet a nice couple on the beach. I had forgotten my camera (chemo brain). So this incredibly nice, sweet woman...a survivor sister...started taking pictures of us. She is going to share the photos with me so I will post them also. People are so kind!!! Here are some pictures to share from my fancy disposible camera in the meantime.
Love to you all!
xoxo
So, we are back from our adventure. Here's the scoop. Last year, a lifetime ago, I have booked a Springbreak trip for me and the kids to go to Atlantis. Oscar and I went when he was 3 years old and it was glorious. We had a great time. Oscar even snorkled like a CHAMP! Here he is, my brave little fish.
Anyway, the closer the trip got the more it seemed we would not be able to go. For starters, I thought I was getting money BACK on my taxes, but instead I owe. Aughhhh! Then my oncologist said that I cannot leave the country. So we switched to Destin, Florida to stay closer to home and to save money.
It was ambitious of me. Really. I guess I have such grandiose illusions that I can do anything. I am not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing. It just does not occur to me that traveling through airports and renting a car and lugging all our bags and 2 kids is something that will be hard. Forget the fact that I had chemo on Monday and left on Tuesday. It was very hard getting there and very, very hard getting home. But worth it! We spent several days on the beach, took a boat ride, saw dolphins swimming in the wild, made sandcastles, buried each other in the sand and just had a great time. I am most proud of myself for not freaking out about spending the money. Okay, well maybe a little bit...
Walking throught the airport Oscar's front tooth FINALLY fell out so that was fun too!
Another really neat thing that happened was we meet a nice couple on the beach. I had forgotten my camera (chemo brain). So this incredibly nice, sweet woman...a survivor sister...started taking pictures of us. She is going to share the photos with me so I will post them also. People are so kind!!! Here are some pictures to share from my fancy disposible camera in the meantime.
Love to you all!
xoxo
Notice the frighteningly tiny head in the sand...? That's me.
Those are DOLPHIN in the water!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Mommy sandwich
Sometime between 3:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. I became a mommy sandwich, with a little dumpling on each side of me. I loved it. I laid (or is it layed?) there for hours (literally) soaking up their sweetness, listening to them breath and praying. What a great way to spend time with God.
I am off to chemo this morning. I can't wait to show Priscilla my latest batch of acne, which the oncologists call a rash. Between you and me, it is just pimples (nice, huh?) that pop up (sorry, poor choice of words....lol) despite a great and diligent facial cleansing routine. I am wearing it with pride. Every one of my doctors has said the same thing about the "rash". It is a sign the medicine is working. And I get to re-live my teenage years.
xoxo
I am off to chemo this morning. I can't wait to show Priscilla my latest batch of acne, which the oncologists call a rash. Between you and me, it is just pimples (nice, huh?) that pop up (sorry, poor choice of words....lol) despite a great and diligent facial cleansing routine. I am wearing it with pride. Every one of my doctors has said the same thing about the "rash". It is a sign the medicine is working. And I get to re-live my teenage years.
xoxo
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Cold & rainy
Yesterday marks the start of my kid's Spring Break. I will have chemo on Monday instead of Tuesday. Then I am taking the kids on a little adventure next week. I hope I feel okay. My bones have started hurting. I take lots of hot baths. I can add ibuprofen when necessary...and I won't hesitate to if I get too achy.
Monday should be fun at chemo because Carrie, Julie and I are taking Angelica with us. She will be a delight to all those people waiting to get treatments. She will be even more amusing than the therapy dogs they bring in.
I hope everyone has a good weekend. It is cold here and has been raining all week. We need the rain.
Love to you all
xoxo
Monday should be fun at chemo because Carrie, Julie and I are taking Angelica with us. She will be a delight to all those people waiting to get treatments. She will be even more amusing than the therapy dogs they bring in.
I hope everyone has a good weekend. It is cold here and has been raining all week. We need the rain.
Love to you all
xoxo
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Where oh where...
...could my cell phone be...
In case you have texted me or called my cell, I did not get your messages. I will be without a cell phone for a while. I will let you know when I have a new one.
xoxo
UPDATE: I just talked to my friend and co-worker that handles all our telecom. I had insurance so a new phone will be here tomorrow. You rock, Kim! Thank you!!
In case you have texted me or called my cell, I did not get your messages. I will be without a cell phone for a while. I will let you know when I have a new one.
xoxo
UPDATE: I just talked to my friend and co-worker that handles all our telecom. I had insurance so a new phone will be here tomorrow. You rock, Kim! Thank you!!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Striking twice...and shout out for Lorrie!
I cannot even believe it. Oscar is sick again. He is really puny. Monday morning about 5:30 am he woke with a very high fever and croupy cough. All day yesterday and today he has been spiking the super high temps, like 105 again. He has been sleeping for almost 3 hours this afternoon. That is very unlike him...the energizer bunny.
I know there were some kids at school that were sick. I am keeping him home again tomorrow. I do not want to expose anyone to this....it is not fair.
This will be the true test of my white blood cell strength and immune system stamina. Lets see if I can avoid this for the second time. I accept the challenge. :-)
Chemo went good today. My dear friend Linda rearranged her whole day to be with me. I LOVE spending time with her so it was a great day! I actually got to go to chemo even though I had a sick, sick little boy at home. Ya know why...? Two words: LOR.RIE !!! (or Lorly as Angelica calls her). My dear, sweet, ever-faithful, unwaveringly supportive, sister-like friend Lorrie hopped into her car and came to the rescue early this morning. Not only did she give up her whole, precious day but I came home to an immaculate house. I did my best not to gush my thanks to Lorrie and/or Linda...instead I tried to bask in the love they poured over me today. You girls are so wonderful...thank you so much for lightening my load today!
xoxo
I know there were some kids at school that were sick. I am keeping him home again tomorrow. I do not want to expose anyone to this....it is not fair.
This will be the true test of my white blood cell strength and immune system stamina. Lets see if I can avoid this for the second time. I accept the challenge. :-)
Chemo went good today. My dear friend Linda rearranged her whole day to be with me. I LOVE spending time with her so it was a great day! I actually got to go to chemo even though I had a sick, sick little boy at home. Ya know why...? Two words: LOR.RIE !!! (or Lorly as Angelica calls her). My dear, sweet, ever-faithful, unwaveringly supportive, sister-like friend Lorrie hopped into her car and came to the rescue early this morning. Not only did she give up her whole, precious day but I came home to an immaculate house. I did my best not to gush my thanks to Lorrie and/or Linda...instead I tried to bask in the love they poured over me today. You girls are so wonderful...thank you so much for lightening my load today!
xoxo
Bring The Rain
"Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings your glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain"
Mercy Me, "Bring the Rain"
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings your glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain"
Mercy Me, "Bring the Rain"
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Great weekend
My dear, sweet friend Aimee came here from New York to spend the weekend with me. What makes her gesture to be with me so remarkable is that she has 4 beautiful babies and her terrific husband George...all at home this weekend without her.
Aimee was my first friend in Texas when I moved here. That was 18 years ago. Jeepers! Time flies. Meeting Aimee opened up a whole world of wonderfulness for me in Dallas. She is my social hub. I still reminisce with friends about how we met and 9 times outta 10 the answer is "through Aimee". Aimee and I met on a blind date. lol That sounds funny. She was on a blind date with a guy who was friends with the guy I was on a blind date with ... so it was a double blind date but the guys knew each other. Her guy was 7 feet tall. No...seriously...he was a little over 7 feet tall. He was that tall... and an overall huge guy. At some point during dinner Aimee asked him if he was anatomically correct. I cracked up and loved her instantly and we have been dear friends ever since. It is so awesome having her here. It is so easy and fun and relaxing and wonderful! She is great friend!!!
Oscar has been enjoying the Wii and is great at it. But what I love is that even when he is losing at Tankers he is laughing...! BTW, notice no more shag rug in the room. Oddie the Peeing Puppy wins. The rug losses and is in the garage until I can get it thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, deodorized, ionized, sterilized...and just unstinkified.
Aimee was my first friend in Texas when I moved here. That was 18 years ago. Jeepers! Time flies. Meeting Aimee opened up a whole world of wonderfulness for me in Dallas. She is my social hub. I still reminisce with friends about how we met and 9 times outta 10 the answer is "through Aimee". Aimee and I met on a blind date. lol That sounds funny. She was on a blind date with a guy who was friends with the guy I was on a blind date with ... so it was a double blind date but the guys knew each other. Her guy was 7 feet tall. No...seriously...he was a little over 7 feet tall. He was that tall... and an overall huge guy. At some point during dinner Aimee asked him if he was anatomically correct. I cracked up and loved her instantly and we have been dear friends ever since. It is so awesome having her here. It is so easy and fun and relaxing and wonderful! She is great friend!!!
Oscar has been enjoying the Wii and is great at it. But what I love is that even when he is losing at Tankers he is laughing...! BTW, notice no more shag rug in the room. Oddie the Peeing Puppy wins. The rug losses and is in the garage until I can get it thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, deodorized, ionized, sterilized...and just unstinkified.
Hope you had a great weekend.
xoxo
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Three amigas
Tuesdays chemo went well with the company of my sweet friends Janet and Johnna. They were with me for the whole day.....they got to meet Dr. O, we had a picnic on the floor of the lobby, they made instant friends with people in the infusion waiting area, and they even hung around once I zonked out from the pre-drugs! Of course, once I heard a camera click I had to convey my wish for the world from under the covers.
I was able to ask Dr. O a lot of questions this time. She was her typical kind but forthright self. My specific cancer diagnosis is (I will say "was", since I am so close to being past tense) Stage IIIc and HER2 +++. The triple positive was the worrisome part but it doesn't matter since I will soon be well.
The one burning question I had for her had to do with the risk of reoccurance and living with the fear. I loved her answer. Very Zen-like. She said the fear is a part of how your body deals with this. Don't repress or deny it...that is not realistic. Let it in but then let it go. And in time those thoughts will come less frequent. I will not let it rule me. And it helps that they will be scanning the be-jeebers outta me every 3 months. lol
My love to you all!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Nightly pills
I started back up on my nightly chemo pills last night. I am going to work out a strict probiotic schedule along with a very careful diet. I only have 2 more months on these pills. I can do this!!!!!!
On another topic... Anyone want a Corgi? He has many talents including climbing up on a 38" countertop. I guess I don't really mind him up there since at least I know he is not peeing on the carpet.
On another topic... Anyone want a Corgi? He has many talents including climbing up on a 38" countertop. I guess I don't really mind him up there since at least I know he is not peeing on the carpet.
xoxo
Thursday, February 26, 2009
He does
Here is a little song from Angelica. She is completely better now and not even stuffy anymore. Yahoo!
xoxo
xoxo
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