The End Of 2010

This is the last day of 2010. This is our last night in Arizona. We will get up and head for home. There is snow going north. We are listening to see if I-40 is open. Ken and I have had to go home driving the southern route in March when it snowed one year. It would be faster to go home driving on I-40, but we will see.
We had a good day. We went to another quilt store. I found some things that I got and my sister got a project for me as well. I worked on organizing Mom's computer today. I spent way to much time trying to get Blackberry apps to download all without luck. Hopefully, when I get home I'll have better luck. Janet and I decided it was Mom's network. We will see. This to shall pass!
I have a few pictures I hope to download with this post. Some of Mom and Bob and our fondue dinner, which was very delicious and leisurely and one of all the plants covered up. The weather has been all the news here. Yesterday there was a snow flurry!
I start radiation at 3:45 on Monday. The sooner I get started the sooner it will be over. Monday is a professional day and Tuesday I will get back with the kids. I can't wait!

Mom won a dinner for 12 at the Madison. The Madison is an assisted living center in Sun City West and where my mom would like to live eventually. So that is where we ate last night. The chef baked a cake for my sister's 50th birthday. We had a good dinner and no dishes!
When we got home we puzzled until we got the frog puzzle that Haley sent to Mom completed.
We went to a couple of quilt stores and I contributed to Arizona's economy. A friend of my mom's had a 2 year old Bernina sewing machine that she wanted to know if I would like to have it. Wow! I was surprised! Ken will be happy to hear that I'm sure.
We are about to go eat at a Fondue type place. Sounds interesting. Then Janet will get to open presents. More later.

Waking Up In Arizona

I am at my mom's in Arizona. I got up early yesterday, Ken took me to the airport, and after 2 uneventful flights I finally arrived at 1:15. I was hungry. Not even a snack is offered unless you want to buy it and I didn't. As I got down to baggage claim I saw my sister. We spotted my beautiful new purple bag easily (thank you Kayla & Steve I Love it) and went out to Mom and the car. The first thing we did was stop and eat. We went right by an In and Out, Steve, and didn't stop. We ate and then went on to Mom's. She had a puzzle going that came from Haley. It immediately grabbed us and forced us to puzzle long enough that I was stiff. Mom fixed one of my favorites for dinner spaghetti and then we opened gifts. Fun things and some yummy things were opened.
I am not sure what is scheduled for today, but one thing you can count on is it won't be dull around here! Janet is in the shower and I will hop in next so I will be ready for what comes next!

The Day After Christmas

Ken and I got up and went to church, then we came home and started un-Christmasfying the house. Trina, Derrick, and their kids came over and helped and we got it done quickly. I was afraid if I left it while I was gone that Ken wouldn't have time to take it down. I didn't want to deal with it and starting back to school. My hip is really objecting, but yeah it is done!
I have started packing. I am still waiting on laundry. I got the coolest purple bag from Kayla, Steve, and the kids, I think it is going to be perfect. Right now, I am hoping my pillow will fit. I am excited about going to Arizona.
Today my dad would of been 80 years old. I sure do miss him. He was such a guiding force in my life. I am so happy he got to see me graduate from college. I wish he'd been able to see me get my masters degree. He loved knowledge. The kids and I had a discussion about him when we celebrated Christmas together. Each child, my sister, and I all had very vivid memories of discussions where Dad was giving/sharing information. We all love and miss him a lot!

It Is Over

Everything has been unwrapped and the oohing and ahhing is all but over. We had a wonderful Christmas Eve with the family. We ate a big dinner and then opened the gifts. I was very thrilled with everything I got. Several things I got were purple. Yeah! Ken and I got up and Santa had left more wonderful things for us. I got everything I asked for and a whole lot more! We spent a leisurely day watching tv, reading, napping, and the ever popular at our house letting the big red dog in and out. We actually just got back from having dinner with Ken's sister, his dad, nieces, nephews, and our great niece. It was a great meal and the company was even better.
I did get the tables put up and the tablecloths in the wash. I would really like to get the house un- Christmasfied tomorrow. I am going to Mom's on Monday and I don't want to come back home to all the decorations and go back to school without it put up.
I will start radiation on January 3rd, which isn't to soon for me. The sooner I start the sooner it is over. I will miss a herceptin treatment while I am at Mom's. So my 3 week schedule will be changed when I get back. I will have the next hercetin treatment on the 7th of January.

Thursday All Day

I am having trouble keeping the days straight. I have already been up and about today. Patsy is coming a day earlier than usual to clean. So I have to get things cleaned up so she can clean. I finished the wrapping, did the dishes, moved the table and chairs around, did some laundry, cleaned up Rusty's toys, and a few other things and I am worn out. I tire so easily.
My sister is on her way to Mom's. She is driving and it is boring. So, I plan to talk to her every couple of hours. Actually, I am calling on the even hours, got some of the kids in on it to call on the odd hours, and I just spoke to Mom and told her to call on the half hours. My sister will think she is one popular girl today, and she is! I wonder how long it will take her to figure it out? Hmm?
I will go out in a bit to get stamps. Then I think since the wrapping is done, the trees are lit, I'll put some Christmas music on, get a throw (it is cool in here), get a cup of hot chocolate, get my book, fire in the fireplace, and enjoy! Then Rusty will need to go out or come in just as I get all settled.
I am anxiously awaiting for the swelling to go down in my right breast. I don't know if he took out enough to make it closer to the size of the left breast! This could even me up. Maybe there was a reason for this little scare after all. A blessing in disguise!
I am tired and have a headache so I think I will rest until Patsy gets done. I hope you are enjoying the day.

A Lot To Do

Do you ever feel like there is so much to do, but you don't quite know how to tackle everything? That is the way I am feeling trying to wrap, buy, cook, send out cards, and get my class ready for next year. Since I am going to visit my mom I have to do something this week. So I think I will go today and let go of that weight. I love the 3rd nine weeks! I am down to a couple of gifts left to figure out and then wrap. Most of the cards have been sent out, just a few more to go. Cooking, hmm, I wonder why that is bothering me, Ken usually takes care of that. He has requested a pumpkin pie, so I will make it Friday morning. I do usually take care of the tables, so I will check out the tablecloths and such. Breathe.
I took the bandage off this morning. The tape was bothering me. The scar is not very large. It is sore, but not to painful. I am resuming my normal activities. I really am thrilled about my surgery results and I want to thank everyone for the prayers. Ann I got your e-mails, thank you. You always lift my spirits. Thank you for the calls Jane and Diana, sorry I didn't get to talk.

Surgery Is Over!

We went at 10:45 to the outpatient surgery department. I got out of my clothes and into a designer gown, one with the opening in the back and snaps at the shoulders. They accessed my port, I talked to the anesthesiologist, and I talked to the doctor. I was scheduled for 11:30 surgery, but it was almost 1:00 before I actually went in. I was awake before I left surgery and when I got back to my cubicle they had a diet coke waiting for me. The lump was a cyst and I finally had a diet coke - life is great! I am relieved! Thank you for all the prayers, they mean so much. I plan to rest today and then back to planning for Friday. Love to all. Remember our Lord and talk to him each day.

Lab Report

I got a call from the surgeon. He said that the lab report did not show anything. He also said that he will go ahead with the surgery and do the biopsy. We will know more tomorrow when he gets out the lump and it can be tested. Things are looking up.
I also have some pictures from the painting excursion! On the back row is my sister, Janet, me, my daughter, Kayla, in front are my daughter, Haley, and Austin's girlfriend, Holly. We all had a fun painting experience!

Surgery Tuesday

We had a wonderful day yesterday! Ken and I drove down to Kayla and Steve's house in McKinney, TX. We had lunch with Kayla, Steve, Haley, Duane, Austin, Holly, Janet, and three of our grandchildren. It was delicious! I think the casserole Kayla served should be repeated again! I had so much fun with Madison and Macie Jane. They let me chalk on the sidewalk, play Boggle , and play Wii with them! It was so nice to be around my sister, the kids, and grandkids. I was feeling the love. We opened presents, which was so much fun. Lots of goodies! I have to admit my favorite was watching Macie Jane when she found out the big present was for her and it was a wardrobe for her American Girl Doll clothes that Papa made her. She is one happy girl arranging the clothes on hanger, shelves, and in the drawers! But we couldn't play long, because we had a surprise celebration to attend. Haley and Kayla set up a painting party to surprise Aunt Janet for her 50th birthday. The girls all painted and the boys encouraged us. We all painted the same thing and they all looked unique! It was so much fun!
Today Ken and I went to a funeral of a sweet lady who had been fighting cancer. Unfortunately, it won. Patty was so loving and full of cheer. We will miss her a lot.
I had the NVG test this morning. This is the test where I get the injection and wait 20 minutes. Then she injects me with the radioactive stuff and takes pictures of my heart. No designer gowns involved in this procedure. I go tomorrow for surgery at 11:30. I told Ken when I get out I am going to be hungry! I still have no lab results. I would like to know something. This is one of those times where I am being given the opportunity to be patient. (Except I am not.)

Saturday is Party Day

Ken and I got up this morning and did a little grocery shopping. Ken had invited all the managerial staff from the mall over for dinner. I worked on getting presents wrapped and he cooked today. Thankfully we didn't have to clean because Patsy did that on Friday. I am so glad she comes each week. Ken made a wonderful dinner and we enjoyed the company. After dinner we played dirty Santa with ornaments.
My hair has been growing back and has been kind of just fuzzy. It is starting to get more like hair. It is funny it is longer in the places older men end up with hair. You know where I mean over the ears and around low in the back. It seems thicker in those places.
We will see some of the kids and grandkids tomorrow, open presents, eat together, and celebrate my sister's birthday. She will hit the fun 50 on the 29th!

Surgeon Visit

Today Ken and I went to the surgeon. I had to get undressed from the waist up and got another designer gown that opened in the front this time! He examined me and agreed it was hard like the cancer mass I found in May. He decided to get some tissue to be tested. So right there with a quick shot to numb the skin he cut me and stuck in a large long needle and started probing. He pulled it out and didn't have much if any tissue, so after two more very painful stabs and probing he was happy with the amount of tissue. I got a really big band aid to cover the site, (which is 3 o'clock on the right breast to be exact). He is hoping to have results on Monday. The mass will need to come out no matter the results of the tissue sample. I will have surgery on Tuesday. I will get more info on Monday for the exact time. If the results of the tissue shows cancer, he will remove the mass and take out sentinel nodes. If we have no results the mass will be tested while I am open, so he can get good margins, but I will have to have another surgery to take out the lymph nodes. I suppose there is potential of a mastectomy. My first thought is darn I just bought two new bras without under wires for my flight out to see my mom. I could end up needing a different size! Oh well, I just won't take the tags off yet.
The lord has been with me and guided my care so I have faith he will continue to guide my caregivers and I will get through this before long. I do appreciate all the prayers, so please keep me and my family in your prayers.
Today was the last day of school in 2010. It was party day. It was a fun busy day! I hope all my students have a safe fun Christmas.

Good News/Bad News

I wore a sweatshirt today and I got hot. The next few days are suppose to be colder. At night my head gets so cold and then I do too. So, now I am wearing either a hat that Kayla crocheted or a bandanna to bed. I am surprised at how much warmer it keeps me.
Today was my oncologist visit. She caught up with the radiation schedule, had no problem with me changing my next herceptin visit a week later, and double checked my scheduled NVG test. Good news, I don't see her for 9 weeks. Then we will talk about and start the 5 year pill. Then it was time for the exam and Bad News, she found a 2 cm mass in my right breast. I am going to my surgeon on his first available, which is Friday. Deja vu?? After we left her office, Ken just held me and told me we would get through this together! We hope to know more on Friday. It is what it is!

Sunday Morning

On Friday, I went to the cancer center to get herceptin. While I was there I traded hair. This one is dark but very short. While Ken and I were out and about on Saturday the wind was very strong. I was walking and it almost felt like the wind was getting under the wig and it would blow off. Momentarily, PANIC!
We slept late, had a leisurely breakfast, and went to church. The hand bells were played today and the music was beautiful. I really enjoyed the music it was very festive and comforting at the same time. We are now home with a fire in the fireplace. Nicole was over a few minutes ago to take our picture for the Christmas cards. So, now we have a movie, fire, and a puzzle. Life is grand!
The orthopedic doctor recommended an orthopedic doctor in OKC. I got a call on the answering machine Friday. I have to wait until January. It may be hard to wait until school is out to have my hip replaced. The pain meds I got have helped a little.
I am expecting next week to be rather hectic. The kids are very excited and it has been difficult keeping them focused. I think it will escalate this week. We are having some special days to make it more interesting for them. Tomorrow, it is wear antlers day. That shouldn't be to distracting!
I got some wrapping done yesterday. I am still finishing up a few projects. I always seem to have so many great ideas that shouldn't take up to much time. Always too many ideas and not enough time!

Injection #2 Isn't Happening

My orthopedic doctor that did my hip replacement in 2008 has left Shawnee. So I made an appointment with another orthopedic doctor and found out that I will have to go to OKC for a doctor to replace my hip. He also will not recommend an injection in the hip because of the risk of infection. Apparently if you get an infection in the hip you can't get a hip replacement. Hmm! All this is news to me. So, his nurse is going to find out if the doctor he is recommending accepts our insurance. But, I did get a prescription for a pain pill. May be this will help. He also reviewed my x-ray from 8-31-10 and said he would recommend a full hip replacement and wanted to know why I would put it off 6 months. I explained about school. As he examined me he said that my right leg is about 1/2 inch shorter than the left. I knew it!
Ken and I went to Hobby Lobby in the city after my appointment. We picked up a few things. One was an ornament for a ornament exchange on Saturday. I am glad to have that ready to go. Rusty, the big red dog, is fascinated by all the sacks and things we brought in.
The kids are really getting excited about Christmas! The behavior all over school is getting wilder by the day. Hopefully we will keep our sanity until the 17th!

Orthopedic Apointment

I am in the 3rd week since chemo, so I called the orthopedic doctor to get an appointment. The oncologist said I had to wait 3 weeks, so by the time I get an injection it will probably be 3 weeks. Last time I had to get labs run to make sure my counts were okay and get the injection scheduled at the hospital. I hope I don't have to fool with the labs this time.
I am working on the Christmas letter. I would like to get it out this week. I went and picked up some stamps today so I would have them when I needed them.
Ken's dad came over for dinner tonight. Ken was called to his sister's about her thermostat, so we ate without him.
I am still so tired in the evenings. I have pretty good energy while I am at school, but if I don't get my errands done right after school I don't have the energy to do much. I worked at school until 4 and I only felt like doing one errand. So I will try to leave earlier tomorrow because I need to drive to Hobby Lobby after school. I should of gone last Saturday, but I didn't. I feel like a slug most of the time!

Chocolate

Good news! I ate chocolate on Sunday afternoon and I didn't get sick! It didn't taste good yet, but I didn't get sick. Ya Hoo! It sure gives me hope that someday things will taste normal again.
We have begun the countdown - 9 days left until Christmas break. The kids are really getting excited. It is a challenge to keep them focused. We have a lot of exciting things going on next week, so I think we better enjoy this week.
I tried unsuccessfully to get an appointment with an orthopedic doctor. I need to get another injection. I am really having a hard time getting around.

Tattoos

Ken was not a big fan of tattoos. So when Kevin got a tattoo I decided not to mention it. He told Kevin that he would take a belt sander it. Of course, he didn't. So as we were getting ready for work I asked him if he would take a belt sander to me. He said, "No, of course not."
I left school early on Friday. Thank you, Amy, fr doing my bus duty and Charme' for dismissing my kids. My friends really step up and help me out. I got signed in and waited for them to call me back. I signed some paperwork and got to put on a designer gown that opens in the back. I got to lay down on my back and put my arms over my head. Then they took air out of the form and it molded around my arms. They attached a couple of wires to my incision sites. Then I got another designer gown, open in the front this time, and we walked through a maze of halls and doors to the CT scanning room. I was a bit worried that we didn't leave a trail of crumbs (because I am severely direction challenged), but I trusted they wouldn't leave me to fend for myself in the designer gowns I was collecting. They brought the custom over the head where your arms go and I took off designer gown number 2 and laid down and put my arms back in it. Now it gets fun. They took my arms out of designer gown number 1 and got out a marker and started marking me on each side and in front. Then when they determined the marks and the laser lights where matched up they taped bb's to the marks. They left the room and the machine moved me through a tube and did its job. Then they came back in and they got out the ink and the needle. That is how and when I became a tattooed women! Then with help I got up, tied up designer gown 1, put on designer gown 2, and walked back to where we started. Then I got dressed and left. This took about an hour. I will start radiation on January 3rd. A lot of people will be helping me out during this time. I am so fortunate to work with such a loving group. This will all be down hill compared to where I've been!
Ken and I went out last night to see Burlesque. We really enjoyed it! Loved the music and dancing. Tonight we are going to Shawnee Little Theatre's production of Little Women. We are looking forward to another enjoyable evening.

Today We Met The Radiation Doctor

Ken and I went to my appointment with the radiation doctor. Once again I had to go to registration and check in. Of course, I had to wait. Then I went to the Cancer Center and even though I have been going there regularly since June I had to answer 5 pages of questions! Then I got to wait and by now it is past my appointment time. Anyway, pink skin and tiredness are possibilities from the radiation. I will have 33 M-F, daily visits. I will see the radiation doctor each Monday. It will take about 15 minutes each day. Before radiation starts I have to get 3 tattoos. I don;t get to pick anything exotic. They will all be very small blue dots. Kind of boring. If I could at least pick the color that would be cool. They will be used to line up the 3 laser lights in the room with my body. I will have my arms over my head and I will get to lay there and relax while I am given the radiation. On Friday, I will go in for a CT Scan and by looking at this they will know where I will need the radiation. Plus they will mold the thingy for my arms to lay in during the radiation. I will start radiation on Monday, January 3rd.
One of my girls in my class came to me and said, "I know how to spell best friend" I jumped on that and asked "How?" She promptly said, "BFF" I was caught by surprise and all I could say was "Okay!"
Hair update or should I say lack of hair update. I have very few eyelashes under my eyes. It looks weird. On the top eyelid I still have some eyelashes. About half my eyebrows are gone. Now the hair on my head is getting visible. It is about a half an inch long. It is getting kind of thick. It is very gray!

Back Up

So sorry! I have been without internet for some reason unknown to me. I made time this evening to be tied up with AT&T to figure out my lack of internet problem. I was assuming it to be a router problem, because we seem to go through them on a fairly regular basis. Much to my surprise and glee I am off the phone with AT&T in less than 30 minutes! Joy! I find it to be extremely painful to tie up my time and attention with the service providers. This was not bad. I am back in business!
Yesterday was my first 24 hour period without being sick. So, today I have felt better. Each day is getting better. Nothing taste normal, but things are starting to have some taste.
Tomorrow is the appointment with the radiation doctor. I am guessing we will discuss how the radiation takes place, what will happen, side effects I can expect, and when I will start. I will be gone the week after Christmas, so I am concerned that will present an issue. My sister doesn't think it will so that concern has been lessened.
It was awfully windy today when we went out for lunch and this new wig is looser feeling and I was worried the wind would take it away. Luckily, it did not become a reality. Yesterday, I worked hard and got the top of my desk visible, maybe since school started in August. Today, I worked hard and got the top of the table I work at visible. It feels good! Two down with other things to catch up on, but I will continue to get things organized.

Turkey Day Is History

We had 80+ at the Abel Family Reunion. It was wonderful to visit with everyone. The food was plentiful. If you didn't leave miserable it was your own fault. It is always a pot luck dinner; and we never lack for anything. We took a lot of pictures. We have so many young children it is just a joy to see them interacting with each other. I hope as I go through the pictures I can put the right name to the faces. If not I'll be sending pictures with a plea for help to the cousins.
I was really tired by the time we left and stomach cramps were back. I am battling them this evening too. I will take some of the percoset before I go to bed and hope to sleep comfortably. I am still trying to decide if I am going shopping in the morning. Ken has to be at work at 6, so I won't have a problem getting up. I guess I'll see how I feel in the morning. I want a few things, just how badly I'm not sure.

Chemo is OVER

My sister left Sunday, Mom and Bob left Monday, Vicki and Bryn left Monday, and Ken went back to work. I would have loved to go back to work, but instead I am at home trying to take care of myself. I am not enjoying the time off. But, this to shall pass!
I am trying to take my meds sooner than later so the stomach cramps aren't as bad. They started getting bad Sunday. I have been trying to stay horizontal as much as possible. I tried to sleep as much as possible on Monday, but I wasn't real sleepy. I took the stronger pain meds before I went to bed last night and we opened the door and I slept better than I have in a while. I have slept off and on between dog in and dog out today. I am cold and then I am hot.
I am revising my idea about when I won't have to wear a wig. I was thinking I could stop wearing it after Christmas, but I think it will be Valentine's Day. My hair is very gray! When you have colored your hair as many years as I have it is and it isn't a surprise to have so much gray. My sister has gone gray and I think she thinks I should too. We will see. Ken is ready to have me color it. It is what it is.
Chemo is over and I am so thankful! It has been a hard journey, but I am so fortunate to have all the support of my family and friends. Thank you for your love, confidence, and kindness. I hope not to miss many more days of school. I still have the herceptin injections every three weeks and seven weeks of radiation to go through, but I am sure the worst is over and things will get easier!

Birthday Party

I had treatment yesterday. I got a headache while I was getting my drugs. My drug nurse gave me some tylenol. Then a half hour later or so my neck and cheeks turned bright red. My drug nurse gave me benydryl. She was glad when I was done with my treatment so she didn't have to administer more drugs. I have stayed on top of my meds today and just have a headache at this time.
My sister was at the cancer center when I arrived. She talked me into a new hairdo, so I traded in last week's do for this one. Mom and Bob are here and so are Bryn and Vicki. Other people will start arriving shortly. Ken, my mom, sister, and Vicki have put together a wonderful turkey lunch for Austin's birthday. We aren't really sure how many will be here, the count is in the 20's I think.
Janet brought her standard poodle and Rusty loves him. They are fun to watch and beautiful to watch running. The house is full and it will be my favorite day! Life is great!

Oncology Visit

I just got back from the oncologist. It was good - which translates to uneventful. I have my meds all lined out for the treatment on Friday. Then I will see her again on Dec. 15th. Then every 9 weeks after that. I have an appt Dec. 1st with the radiation dr. I am anxious to find out the radiation schedule. Patience. Then I have another NVG test around the middle of December and then again every 3 months. One thing I learned is that I don't finish the year of herceptin before I start taking the pill for 5 years. So that will put this behind me about 6 months sooner than I thought. Woo hoo!
Good news! The refrigerator (bought in August) is now in the kitchen! Yippee! The dining room is so much bigger! The kitchen seems smaller. We almost have the kitchen back in order.
Well, when I went to get treatment last Friday, I left with a new wig. This one is a short style that has bangs and is a little longer and darker than the other wig. The kids noticed my new hair right away. They all seemed to have an opinion about my wigs. We finally ended with a vote and my kids voted for the new wig. So my public has voted!
Ann at school, has arraigned to have a soup-er luncheon tomorrow to celebrate my last chemo treatment Friday. Everyone has been so supportive! I work with people that are like family. Thank you.
My sister will be here for my treatment on Friday, Mom and Bob will be back on Friday, and we will have Austin's birthday party on Saturday. I am excited to see everyone. Bryn and Vicki have been here since Saturday. I am enjoying having them here! He has to report back Nov. 30th to duty in Georgia. It could be awhile before I see them. At least he is in our country now. My blessings are endless!

Morning Quiet Is Priceless!

I got up this morning and I was the only one awake. It was quiet and also my favorite time of the day. It is the time of day when there are so many possibilities. The number of hours in the day seem to be longer than the number of things I want to get done. Everything and anything seem possible.
We have been fortunate the last couple of days. My mom and Bob flew in Thursday afternoon and we picked them up at the airport and then when to a great dinner at Cheddar's. Ken had to go to work when we got back to town, so we went home and caught up with each other. They left Friday for a week in Branson. Later Friday night Bryn and Vicki came in from Georgia. He got back from Iraq and is on leave. Yesterday Bryn and Ken did the movie thing and Vicki and I did the Hobby Lobby thing. A good time was had by all!
I am feeling good. I am looking forward to and dreading the last round of chemo on Friday. I, of course, want to end this part of the journey, but the discomfort that I will be in is what I dread. I am having a bit of trouble with my hip and I think I need to get a new injection.

I Forgot

I am feeling better each day. I am still having issues with sugar. I am getting better about staying away from it. I haven't had any issues today or yesterday. I will give it another day or two and then I hope to try sugar again and have no problems. Monday night was bunco night and Betty had a wonderful spread for us, but I refrained from trying the sweets. It was hard!
I came home today and Ken was grouting the new floor in the kitchen. Now, the sealant needs to be put on the floor and then the refrigerator (which we bought in August) can be put in the kitchen. I am excited about getting things back together.
I just realized I forgot to get labs done Monday. Oopsie! I will try and remember to call tomorrow and see if I still need to do it. I just hate it when I do stuff like that.

Ken and I had a busy day. We went to church, got groceries, piddled around the house, Ken cooked, and then we both went to work. I only went for a couple of hours, while Ken will work until 2 am. I am glad I got a little bit organized for tomorrow. I am tired tonight. I am watching what I eat and working at keeping my stomach from having issues.
I spoke to my mom today and she is flying in on Thursday. I am excited about seeing her and Bob. They will spend the night and leave Friday morning to go to Branson. They will hurry to the airport in Missouri to pick up my sister for the weekend. Then they will be back in a week. I am so thankful for my family. Mom sends me cards and calls. She lives far away, but she has been so supportive. My sister has been so caring. She has been here for treatments and calls to check on me so often. My kids have been so sweet and loving. Ken has been with me each step, listens to my fears, takes care of everything, and loves me. I am so blessed by my family!

Going Uphill

It is early Saturday morning and Rusty and I have gone downstairs to start the day. He has been out and I have a fire started in the fireplace and he is now standing in front of it warming himself.
I had the x-rays taken on Wednesday and they showed no blockage so I was given a stronger pain pill. Which, by the way, did get rid of the stomach cramps! I also realized that it made me a bit woozie. So I won't be able to take it and teach. and take it.
I taught on Thursday and it was very exhausting. No school Friday and then 3 days of subs and they lost their manners. So I had to deal with discipline issues that we had been past. Plus, bonus I got a new boy in my class! That added to the joy of the day. I left as early as possible and went home and took a nap. Thursday was the night of sorority's biggest fund raiser of the year, our auction. I was determined to go. I believe it was a great success! I ended up leaving before it was over, because I was a bit tired. I enjoyed it and all the girls did a spectacular job! I even got some pictures this year, which is better than last year when I didn't get any. Thanks to Judy I did get the cream puffs that Ken really wanted. My stomach was doing okay all morning and at lunch I tried a peanut butter sandwich and it felt like stomach cramps were on the way back, so I threw away half the sandwich and quite eating. At the auction I noticed I was okay when I ate protein so I ate a couple of chicken wings, sausage ball, and a part of a chicken salad croissant. My stomach was feeling okay. Then some chocolate nut candy called my name and I realized chocolate doesn't taste so good and my stomach started rolling.
Friday was a new day and I felt better. I got to school feeling like I could handle the day. We got a lot done and everything went pretty smoothly. But, I had to leave to go get herceptin. I thought I was on a 3 week schedule for that, but I am still on a weekly schedule. It went okay and I went home. Ken was laying another section of slate in the kitchen. When he got to a stopping point we went to dinner at Santa Fe. I had a good steak and baked potato. I felt good after I ate it, no stomach problems. Yeah! We came home started a fire and enjoyed each other and a night of television. He has worked nights all week, so we haven't had much time to be together. We still enjoy just being together! After a bit I couldn't help myself and I got one of the best cream puffs ever and ate it. It was good, but it sure did make me sick. I think I am getting the picture - no sweets! Surely this to shall pass!
I am hopeful that the new refrigerator (bought in August) will get installed in the kitchen, we will get all the dust from this job dusted, and Ken will rest some before he goes back to work Sunday night. I have some sewing I plan to work on, but mainly I will try to keep my stomach on an even keel and rest. I am looking forward to a whole week at school and enjoying my kids. We have a lot of fun things to do.

Voting Day

Today was a long day. I thought I would be okay once I got to school. I got through the calendar and the morning message okay, but I went downhill very fast. I felt weak and pitiful. I sent a note to the office and people were ready to help me. I work with wonderful people. Brady was ready to sit in when she saw me, Nurse Susan came down and offered to drive me home, and Charme', who took my kids and got them organized for the rest of the day. Thank you so much! It means so much to me knowing the care and support you give to me. I got home and I was cold. I had on a pants & jacket outfit on and I covered up with 2 blankets and slept. My stomach is hurting, I have a mild headache, and my joints are hurting me. Waa waa! Sorry to be such a whiner. I know this shall pass, but not fast enough!
This is the third round of the taxotere and herceptin. It seems harder than the last two were. Thankfully, there is only one more round of these drugs.
I am glad that I chose to vote before school, because I might not have been able to do it later. I am glad we have the privilege to vote and have our voice count. I hope everyone exercised their right to vote.

It was time for parent teacher conferences on Tuesday and Thursday so I went at my regular time 7 when it was dark and left after conferences a bit past 7and it was dark. I don't like going and leaving work when it is dark. I worked late on Wednesday to make getting ready for Rebecca easier on Friday. It ended up being a very long 4 day week. Oh, and to top it off, on Wednesday one of my girls came to me and asked if she could go to the restroom and I said yes. She went in and came out and over to me and said "the toilet is all blogged up". What good news! Thankfully I was in my best week to handle everything. A side effect of this chemo is joint pain, which has caught up to me this week. I have taken a pain pill each day when I couldn't stand it any longer. I am not sure how effective they were. My sister and Charme' would say to take them earlier, but I hate taking all this medicine.
This week was I was feeling the love. It is so nice to be remembered. I got a prayer shawl in the mail from Carol, I love it. Can you guess the color - yes purple and white! A card came from a couple in Janet's sunday school class, wow my sister is really loved and by association I am too! My sister also sent the most sinful Moose Munch, however I wish you hadn't been on call and could of been here with us. A card also came from Sally, a friend, ,and sorority sister. During conferences several of my parents asked how I was feeling. Ann thank you for the note of encouragement, I saw it Friday morning before chemo. Jane called to check on me. Cleo, Jane, Diana, Jeannie, and I met for dinner and a Movie on Thursday and we laughed. It kind of feels like the last enjoyable time for about a week. All of the above is the most comforting, encouraging medicine for me. I am so blessed. This is all helpful and not hurtful. (Kindergarten hat!)
The 7th round is history. School was out yesterday and I had high hopes of getting a lot done. It didn't happen. I did labs about 8. Met Melissa for breakfast, which I enjoyed, went to school and got my room ready for Monday, which I wish I wasn't going to be off, but I know the kids love Rebecca and she does a great job, picked up meds to take before chemo at wally world, stopped by the vet, and by that time it was chemo time. (Nothing like howdy dowdy time). This is a long day there from 1:00-4:00. I spoke on the phone, read, and when I couldn't keep my eyes open I dozed. Then I came home read and dozed the day away. Ken is continuing to lay the new floor in the kitchen. My job is to haul myself up and go in and tell him how much I like it. It is a lot easier than being the gopher, but not as much fun!

Busy Week

This will be a busy week. This week is parent teacher conferences on Tuesday and Thursday nights. I had one grandparent conference today. One down and 19 to go. I did have 21, but one of my boys moved to Oregon. It is sad that the parents didn't have enough advance notice to let me give them his memory book and all his things from the classroom. He didn't even get to return his library book.
I have a doctor appointment on Wednesday, because I get a treatment this Friday. This will be the 7th of 8 treatments! Yahoo! I am on the downhill slide, it feels great! This to shall pass. I am feeling pretty good except for the joint pain that has started in the last couple of days. My plan is to work in my classroom Friday getting ready for Rebecca on Monday. We are out of school Friday.

Pink Out Walk

Today is the Pink Out walk/run in Pink, OK. It was not looking good when we left for Pink. Some drizzle and lightening. It was pouring on the way there. Well, thankfully the rain eased up. It was a little bit late, but we were able to walk. Our group of girls walked the 5K, while I only walked a mile. I feel good! Pink does a great job with the walk, an auction, and lots of food. It was fun and wet! We are back home and I couldn't wait to get an update with pictures on the blog. Thanks to my daughter and mom I had a new hat and "cancer sucks" socks to wear for the walk.
Now it is time to get on with other projects. Ken has two he is working on. The tile floor and he has an idea for my classroom door. We are having a door decorating contest. I on the other hand have some sewing I ant to do. I hope you have a blessed day and enjoy your loved ones.

Friday

Thursday morning Ken and I started taking up the tile in the kitchen. He bought some power tool that you can put a chisel bit into. So he chiseled and I picked up the tile pieces and swept as we went. The tile is very heavy so the container couldn't get to full. Ken would carry it out and we would start all over again. Then we drove out to the mall and unloaded the tile. So now the tile in the kitchen is no longer. Ken is getting the sub floor ready now. There is dust everywhere. I am not letting that bother me to much. I went to sorority last night and didn't think about it at all!
Today we made a quick trip to OKC. We went by Michael's, Hobby Lobby, The Quilt Store, and Home Depot to get more flooring. We hurried home so I could get to the cancer center by 2:00. I had a herceptin treatment today. I am home now and very tired. I think I will rest a bit. Then who knows what! I still have some sewing to do.
Have a great weekend, I will!

My Week Is Over

I know it is just Wednesday, but my week is over! It is fall break. We usually are heading to War Eagle, but the two did not coincide this year. So now we will be home for fall break. But... we have projects to do. We have been working toward replacing the floor in the kitchen since last July when we bought the new refrigerator. It has actually been sitting in the middle of the dining room because Ken thought we would just wait until we changed out the tile before we slide it in. Let's see it is October. Not to bad. See a good example of patience.
I am feeling tired. It has been a week and a half since I had the taxotere why am I so tired? See a bad example of patience. My voice is almost 100%. My stomach is giving me some issues and I am having a few more headaches than usual, but I am doing okay. I will have herceptin on Friday. I did labs on Monday. I didn't get a call so I guess they were okay.
Ken and I went to see the new movie Red. We both enjoyed it. It was fun.
Thank you for the cards Sally and Mom. Jane and Mary Ann thank you for the calls. I sure appreciate all the support. I am looking forward to walking at the Pink Out in Pink, OK on Saturday. I got some really good news yesterday when my youngest son, Bryn, called from Georgia. I was so glad to hear his voice and know he is stateside instead of in Iraq. Big Yahoo! He sounded so good! Ken and I felt so relieved! We are blessed.

The Deals!

It is still early Mr. Sunshine is not up. (No, that is not a reference to Ken.) We took off yesterday and we got to the first craft show as it was opening. That is such a great feeling to know you haven't wasted anytime! We spent 2 1/2 hours at it. My sister was on a hunt for some pink ribbon hangy down (breast cancer awareness) earrings. It is always good to have a quest! So every jewelry booth we came across we checked it out. I am not certain but most of the booths she stopped at were glad she stopped. We found some cute ideas. I will have to get right on those when we get home. I picked up a few jewelry pieces here and there. Throw in a couple of Christmas presents, the have to get Kettle Corn (fresh and still hot in our bag yummy), and the roasted nuts and we had a full day. The next show was also outside and it was beginning to get warm when we finished up the corn dog and Indian Tacos for lunch. I was very happy that the next two shows were inside. I am not sure what it is, but I am feeling tired and worn out. Surely it isn't my age...the side effect of having chemo, that is what I am telling myself.
At school, I've been talking about the four seasons and how they need to watch the trees to see the leaves turn colors. Well, in Arkansas, the trees are gorgeous usually. We are a week earlier than usual for some reason so the trees aren't as colorful. But I have my camera out and if I see one I am trying to get it. I have the window down my head out the window trying to get a good shot and my sister yells from the backseat "Don't let your hair blow off!" Well, that stopped me and all of us had a good laugh. I never even thought about that possibility. Good to have my sister around to help me with those kinds of possibilities.
We finished the fourth craft show and I was feeling a bit worn out so we headed back to eat dinner. We have eaten at the same place since we started coming on this trip. First we enjoyed the spinach dip, then Janet and I had the best sweet potato fries with the best honey, butter, cinnamony dip to go with them, and chicken fingers to round it out. Oh it was so good!
Then we hit one last craft show, which is the one in our hotel. Eureka! We found the earrings! Janet can wear them each Tuesday at her hospital when they wear pink for breast cancer awareness. I found a purple jacket, but my size was popular.
I think it will be time to get going soon. We will drive to War Eagle and do the two big shows there and when we get done it will be time to drive to Tulsa to put my sister on her plane to TX. Then we will head for home. The yearly craft trip will be history.

Catch Up Time

Each day this week got a little easier. I told Laura on Thursday it has to do with being able to "poop". There is a reason you have to be able to do that before you leave the hospital. When you do that I guess your system is back in balance. I am not a poop everyday kind of girl (I know TMI), so it takes me a few more days to get the stomach cramps to settle down, but they are gone now. So now you know I have pooped since last Friday. (I know again with the TMI) Just as that issue got taken care of I started losing my voice. So I ended up teaching Friday with barely a whisper. I called my regular dr. and she called in a z pack in yesterday around lunch time. My wonderful husband, Ken, was off yesterday so that became one of the many errands he did yesterday as he got ready for our weekend away.
I went at 2:00 to take my herceptin. I will start taking it every three weeks instead of every week in three weeks. Anyway I was concerned that if I started 3 ties as much it would be different as in harder. My drug nurse assured me I wouldn't notice it that nobody did. That has me pumped! Two more rounds of the taxotere! I just have to figure out how to poop sooner!
We picked my sister up in Tulsa and drove to AR last night. We arrived ate dinner and caught 22 minutes of the craft show IN OUR HOTEL! How cool is that? The light from the computer and all the clicking must be waking my other roomies up, so I will close. There are craft shows calling our names. My sister and I are out to get good deals and Ken is coming along to drive. My sister says Hi to all! I just hope everyone will have as an exciting weekend as the three of us will have. I am so blessed to have a sister that I enjoy being around. And I am doubly blessed to have Ken for a husband, because he really knows how to take care of me! Got to go shower! It is time to shop!! YaaHoo

Monday

I went to work. I was there all day long. It was a very long day. Thank you Amy for taking my bus duty. I am tired. I was glad to see all my friend's smiles and get the good wishes from all at school. Again the stomach cramps are getting to me. My back is hurting as well and it is very hard to get comfortable. Sounds like a lot of whining, where is the cheese to go with it? This to shall pass! Tomorrow will be better.
Ken cooked a chicken and pasta meal. I am a sucker for pasta, so I ate. I am sure I will have more strength tomorrow. I just keep thinking if I sleep it will go away and get better faster. So let's get on with getting better!

This Round

Well, I feel like a slug. I am not doing much of anything. I am trying to keep ahead of the headaches and stomach cramping with the meds. I am resting. Ken is gone working on the remodel job with the hopes of finishing today. So the house is quiet. Just took another round of meds so I thought while I was awake I would try to be productive.
One of my neighbors has a little boy that is very fair skinned and has the cutest smile you've ever seen. If I didn't know Snow White was made so many years ago I would swear he was the model for one of the dwarfs. He doesn't talk much, but is usually seen flailing on the floor with unflattering noises emitting from his mouth. Well, he stopped at my door a little confused popped his head in and asked me "Where are my people?" It was all I could do not to laugh, but I didn't I just told him with a big smile "Dear I think your people are on the playground." I chuckle each time I think of that. He will grow up a lot this year.
I will stay home tomorrow to make sure I have all under control. Two more rounds of chemo. The end is in sight. I will survive and come out stronger, because this has not killed me. I am looking forward to Oct. 23rd. That is the date of the Pink Out in Pink, OK. I asked some family members to walk with me, but they had other plans so I will be walking with the girls from school. My mom and Haley, who was out for a visit to Mom's sent me a pink hat and cancer sucks socks to wear in the walk. I bought the Team Jo Anne shirt, so I will be stylin'. I just hope I can make a mile easily. I will be praying for strength and courage that I don't have problems.
My hair is growing in slowly. It looks like gray to me with some dark here and there. Ken ever the diplomat says it looks blondish. One of the many reasons I love him so. He says it is covering up the brain tumor scar. All I know is that my hair is tender and easy to wash and dry. Bonus!
Have a great week!

Saturday Morning

Yesterday was chemo day. I left school about 12:30. Rebecca came and took over my class my Friday and will be there on Monday. I am so happy she is there. My kids love her too. Bonus! It eases my mind knowing she is in charge.
The chemo went as well as could be expected. I came home and relaxed. Ken came home and went to the remodel job and I went to sleep. We had a little excitement then. The sorority girls were leaving for a weekend trip to Dallas, of course I couldn't go. I was sad. Cleo, my sister-in-law was planning to go. So she was packing and doing all that stuff. While shaving her legs she nicked one of those blood vessel that is visible on her shin and she bleed like a stuffed pig. Sorry Cleo, but it was everywhere. Anyway, she got to a phone and called Jane. They were meeting at her house. Jane was afraid to call me because she knew I might be sleeping (and I was), so she called Kevin, Our son, who has done some work foe Jane. So Kevin called his dad who called me. So he picked me up on the way to Cleo's. By the time we got there she had the bleeding stopped. Ken cleaned up the bathroom and I got the rug and lid cover soaking in water. She had done this before and was very cool and knew what to do. We decided it looked like a little boy with a bad aim having fun in her bathroom. Lots of blood was everywhere.
I woke up around 4ish with stomach cramps and a headache. I tried to stay in bed so I didn't bother Ken or Rusty. I turned on the light made a couple of lists, wrote a note to my aunt, and read til daylight. Then Rusty and I came downstairs in search of pills. I can feel the diarrhea coming on. This might not be my favorite day of the week. I think I might doze off for a while. First I want to thank Ann for the encouraging note. She is on top of things always. My neighbors a school are so supportive, I appreciate them so much. I am so lucky too have the support and prayers! I feel blessed - oops gotta go the stomach is moving!

Wednesday's Oncology Visit

Today I went to the oncologist. Thanks to my neighbors Charme' and Amy for helping out with my class and duties at the end of the day. Ken met me there. My labs from this morning were good. We discussed the side effects from the last chemo and the meds and changes to make in my meds. It was a good appointment.
My sister called and she has other obligations this weekend, so I will be on my own again. Ken is MOD Saturday, which is fine since I will most likely be asleep the best part of the day. We are hoping I won't have stomach cramps. If I do I am armed with meds for it! This to shall pass.
I have a little boy that my heart is going out to in my class. He has missed more days than he has been present. He can't recognize his name. My kids trace their name once and write their name twice each day. Yesterday he made little circles for each letter. He was so proud of himself that he wrote his name. All I could do is tell him what good circles he drew. Today we wrote his name one letter at a time and he is starting to pick it up. Later this afternoon he wrote a c and something that I saw an h in it! Those are actually 2 letters in his name. Woo Hoo! I am living my dream!

Sunday Night

I had the herceptin on Friday. I was tired, but no other side effects. On Saturday my sinuses were acting up. My nose was running, eyes watery, and sneezing. I have rubbed my eye so much it feels bruised.
We had a good day today. We went to church. My sinuses are not bothering me so much. Then this afternoon we went to a baby shower for one of Ken's cousins son. Jesse and his wife Katie are expecting twins. They are very excited. It was fun to see so much family. I did some sewing to finish up a custom quilt and matching pillow.
The weekend came and went and I didn't go in to school. That doesn't happen often! I did lots of planning this summer so I could be better prepared.
I love the cooler weather. I guess I will have to bring in the plants. We will need to fill the wood box. I just know it is almost time for a fire in the fireplace. Yeah!
I am looking forward to a good productive week. I hope you have one too.

Thursday

The fall weather is just beginning and it is so so nice. The cooler weather makes it so much easier to wear the hair. Speaking of hair I got an eyebrow kit for my birthday and it is kind of fun drawing on eyebrows.
I was happy I was able to be at school this week. I gave a prize to each child who could learn all the uppercase and lowercase letters by today. I told them this at the beginning of September. Seven of my kids earned a prize and five more were very close. It was an exciting day! One of my little boys was convinced he was close and he asked me how close he was and I tried to say in the nicest way he only needed to learn 20 uppercase and 25 lowercase! I think he was proud of himself. I call them my shining stars because they are so smart.
Tomorrow I will leave school early to go to the cancer center to have herceptin. It only takes about 30-45 minutes. I got a little tired, but other than that it went smooth last week, so I am expecting the same this week.

Tuesday Night

Okay, I know it has been a week. Sorry, but I have been busy. I got the meds for my stomach cramps and they have helped. I actually stopped taking them on Sunday evening. I feel good and don't have side effects from the chemo right now.
On Friday I did labs and took a round of herceptin. It took about 30 minutes. No side effects from it and the virus I got the week before is gone now.
My sister called and wanted to come up Saturday ad take me to diner for my birthday. Cool! I thought because I really enjoy her. We had a fun delicious dinner at Red Lobster. We got up and went to church. Much to my surprise 6 out of our 8 children and their families surprised us at church. We filled up a few pews with our crowd! I really was surprised to see them at our church. It felt so wonderful to have them around. Ken had lunch planned for all of us at a room in the Holiday Inn. Ken had some help with cakes, thanks Nicole, help with set up, thanks Cleo, Janet, Kevin, Nicole, and Jane. It was nice and relaxed and the grandchildren got to play together. We took some pictures and I opened a few presents. It was very nice. Ken asked all the kids to write a note to me. Most of them did and it was wonderful to read what they had to say. I do love all my children. All eight of them are so wonderful. I am very blessed by them. Then the kids left and girls from school and sorority came by and we laughed a lot.
I am having a great week at school. We are very busy and I think I have a great group. Each day is so much fun.
I have figured out how to get a book to my Sony Reader finally. So I will have a book to read while I do my next round on Friday. This will make the situation better. It is what it is!

Wednesday

I got on yesterday to write an update and there was technical difficulties, so I gave up. I went to school, but the stomach cramps were so bad and the sewer smell was so bad that I came home before 8:30. I went to bed and got up at 4:00. I then went back to bed at 9:00.
I am persistent. I went to school this morning. Ken strongly urged me to call the doctor. I called about 8:20 and again at 9:30. About 11:20 the doctor's office called with two prescriptions. Ken went to get them and I took the one for stomach cramps. Forty-five minutes later I started feeling some relief. Finally the first time since Friday I haven't had stomach cramps. The doctor thinks I may have a virus that is going around. I have to be able to eat and regain my strength so I will be able to do labs and get my treatment on Friday.
I am anxious to get back to school tomorrow. I miss my kids. We were only in school for half a day today. This morning we had a fun day so I wasn't with my kids and this afternoon we had a really productive meeting. I am ready to get back to the business in the classroom.
I got a nice card today in the mail. I also want to thank everyone at school for being so kind and caring. I work with the best staff, everyone tries to make things easier for me. I will admit I don't always help them, but I do appreciate everyone so much!

Tired

Today has been pretty quiet. Janet had to go home yesterday and Ken went to work on the remodel job so I am home with the hound. He is very good company. I am sleeping off and on. My side effects are better on this chemo drug than the other. I have a headache off and on and I am taking meds for that, I have diarrhea so I try not to eat much, and overall I feel a little groggy. I am hot and cold.
I would really like to get up and feel productive, but it isn't happening. I find that one of the hardest things to deal with. I am praying for patience. I guess I am just not patient enough to get it!
I wish everyone a great week.

Well, basically I am a pretty boring person and didn't have much to report! I had a very productive day at the central office with a protocol meeting on mapping on Monday. On Tuesday afternoon I had another productive meeting about the science task force. Both meetings are foundation work for curriculum mapping. I spent good days with my class on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday is another story.
I checked in to registration, went and did labs, then went to the NVG test. That is the test for my heart that I did in June, which I will get to do every three months!! Just about the time that was over my sister, Janet arrived. We went out to lunch after the dogs, Rusty our Irish Setter, and Zeke, her Standard Poodle, did all the sniffs, you know the meet and greet dogs like to do! Then it was time for chemo, so off to the cancer center we went. She had a book and after I tried to read, thanks for the book series Melissa, I dozed. Three hours later we went by Walgreen's and then home. I was dozy feeling, a little nauseated, but overall okay. Ken got home from the remodel job and we ate pizza and Janet made a delicious blueberry desert.
I ended up with a headache before I went to bed. I slept solid for about 5 hours. Woke up with a headache so I took another headache pill and tried to get back to sleep. Finally about 6:30 my stomach was cramping so I got up. Let the dogs out and my sister got up. Unfortunately, she had to get back by 1 so I alerted Ken that I was cooking breakfast and we were leaving about 7:30 if he wanted to eat with us. While I was dressing, the fun began - diarrhea hit. We all went to iHop. Ken left for work, he is MOD at the mall today. Janet and I came home and loaded up and I am trying to rest between bouts of diarrhea and dozing.
It was great to see my sister. I had some cards this week from Margie, and three different sorority chapters in the OKC area. It is so thoughtful and it lifts my spirits to know people are thinking about me. On Thursday, I had one of the most touching surprises at the end of the school day. Last year a few of our teachers went to walk in a 5K cancer walk in Pink, OK. This year the sign up has about 4 times as many teachers going. Misty put together a cute shirt for all the people going. I happened to see it and across the back it has Team Jo Anne! I couldn't believe it, I was so surprised, it made me cry. Once again I am so thrilled to be apart of such a loving, caring, and thoughtful group of teachers and staff! The blessings are all around us. The cancer, the treatments, and the minor inconveniences shall all pass, but I will still work with the best people, have the best family, and friends. And it is what it is!

It's Like Insrance

Ken and I finished out the week with only one mishap with the dog. On Thursday he got hold of the baked chicken carcass after dinner. The chase was on! There was still some meat on it, which he wolfed down in just seconds and he then dismantled the bones into many pieces faster than you can blink. It was surprising how possessive he was of the carcass and he didn't even own it long! We watched him but he seemed okay (not a bit contrite for his actions). Well, on Friday he paid for it. He was as sick as a dog. We are all fortunate that Ken got home first and handled it. His crate was a mess.
Ken was at work yesterday so I did a little of this and that, which is my favorite way to spend the day. I worked a little at school getting ready for a sub (I will be at a meeting all day Monday) and I enjoyed myself in the sewing room.
I have had a couple of days to get my head around all the information from the oncologist. I have decided all of these treatments are like buying insurance. I will have a lot of insurance against the cancer returning.
Yesterday was my mom's birthday, we spoke and I wished her happy birthday. She had a good day planned. I spoke to my Haley, who had been riding her bike - 23 mph at one point. Kevin stopped in to see how I was doing. I texted with Kayla. My sister called to say she would be here Friday, the 17th, for my treatment. I got a cute card from Margie a friend who works in administration out at the hospital and I stop in occasionally and say hi. My friend, Jane called to check on me. A lot of the people at school find their way to me during the week just to check on me. I am truly blessed by family and friends. Thank you for thinking about me and praying for me. Keep it up I need it!

Ocology Visit

This morning I realized that about half my eyebrows are gone. They look the same except they are real thin. I haven't noticed the hair on my arms or legs going away at all. Funny the way this works!
I got a clearer picture of the immediate and long term future that we are facing. I have to have the NVG test run again to check for damage to my heart. On September 17th I will start 4 rounds of Taxatere (sp). The side effects of Taxatere are swelling, rashes, mouth sores, aching joints, and hair loss. At the same time the Taxatere starts I will also get Herceptin each week for 6 weeks. Then I will get it every 3 weeks for a year. I will have the NVG test to check my heart every 3 months. The side effect of Herceptin is diarrhea and heart damage. 3 weeks after the Taxatere is complete I will get to begin radiation! When I am done with the Herceptin I will have a pill for 5 years. Wow! Talk about committment! I never realized this would be such an involved process. Over 6 years. That just blows my mind.
I am so lucky to have the medical care, the caring family, and the wonderful friends that give me love and support. I want everyone to know how thankful I am for all the cards, calls, prayers, food, and good wishes. Have a great evening!

Tuesday

Today was great. I enjoyed seeing my students, 3 days was a long time. We quickly fell into the routine of school. We tried a couple of new things in the classroom and some of them worked and one didn't. I do so love my job.
I feel good. I will do labs in the morning and go to the oncologist at 4:00. The oncologist will be gone next week when I would usually go for my appointment, so it is a week early this round.
I usually don't wear my wig at home because it is cooler and comfortable. We have the ceiling fans going and sometimes you can stand where you feel more of the air moving than other places. I can stand in one of those places and I can feel my hair move. It feels really weird!

Labor Day

My time off is about over. I have been fairly productive. On Saturday I was able to finish up a quilt for Virginia, deliver an order of burpees, and start another project only to realize I didn't have any stabilizer. Which meant my 3rd trip to wallyworld was about to happen. On my first trip I bought some tumblers that were 2 for a $1.00. One of the places that sorority helps out needed tumblers. I got 10 to donate. Now later in the day on my third trip to wallyworld the tumblers are now 2 for $.50. Lucky for me the tumblers are still in the car waiting to be delivered. I returned those 10 (not without waiting in line) and bought 20 for the same price I originally paid and now I have doubled my donation. Yahoo! Ken thought I was crazy. "Just buy more if you want to give more," he said. No that is not the issue and that is why I handle the money I guess! We went to Cleo's to celebrate with family my father-in-law's birthday. What a spread! Thanks Cleo.
On Sunday Ken was up at the crack of dawn mowing the grass. I bet the neighbors loved the noise. It was so cool, I know it was easier for Ken. Then we went to church and enjoyed an especially good sermon on prayer. We went to wallyworld (again) for fruit. I am trying to eat healthier. Your good influence Janet. I worked on my school website most of the afternoon while Ken painted on the south side of the house. Then we met Austin and Holly for dinner. Italian=yummy! We had a wonderful visit with them and enjoyed the relaxed conversation.
We got up fairly early again today, which suits me. I don't like to burn daylight and waste the day sleeping. Ken went off to the remodel job and I took my fruit plate and juice out on the patio to eat. It was quite relaxing. Then I decided to tackle a job I've been putting off for quite sometime. Scanning some old family photos into the computer. I have been reading up on how to do this and how to make cataogs in Photoshop. Today I decided was a good day without distractions, so it was time. I had some issues getting the scanner recognized and how to divide them up when you scan 3 at a time, but I am successful! Yahoo! Ken came home for lunch and was surprised by all my efforts. Then I got a few pages done on the scrapbook for sorority. Cassie, Phillip, and Peyton came by on their way out of town. Thanks for the purple hat and the drink, Cassie and Phillip are always thinking of me. We had a quick visit and they got on the road so Peyton could sleep during the drive. Ken went back to work for a little bit and should be home soon. We are going to drive to OKC to pick out slate. Hmm! I think I better check their hours before we go in case they close early today.
I feel like I accomplished some things I wanted to get done, I talked to my sister and mom, went to dinner with Austin and Holly, and spent time with kids, grandkids, sister-in-law and my father-in-law at his birthday celebration. We have truly been blessed this weekend with family and fun!

It Is Friday With 3 Days Off!

It is Friday night and it has been a long week. I am feeling better. I am not as tired as I was earlier in the week and I am not as nauseated as I was. We were very productive at school. We got everything done and adjustments are being made for next week.
I got a big surprise today at school when my son, Austin, and his girlfriend, Holly showed up. Austin and Holly got to meet my kids and got to see them work a little and play a little. I really enjoyed showing off my kids - all of them!
I am looking forward to a quiet weekend and hope to get some things done around the house with a fair amount of resting involved.

Injection

Sunday was a hard day. The patch was wearing off and the nausea started coming back. I am not sure the second patch has helped. I went to school Monday and I was miserable. I was very tired and so very nauseated.
I originally thought I would be having my right hip replaced this summer, but God had another challenge for me. So, while I was in with the oncologist she said that my risk of infection would be low this week if I needed an injection it would be good to get it this week. So I was very fortunate to get an 8:30 appointment today. Anyway that is what I thought when I got the appointment.
When I got to my appointment they told me I needed x-rays, so I went to x-ray and waited my turn. Then back over to orthopedics to wait. By the time I get called it is after 9:00 because Ellen is on. Then I get to wait in the room. I am seeing the PA so I am sad I don't get to see the dr. Oh, but to my surprise she has followed all my surgery and pops into see me. It was good to see her. It seems with the blood thinner for the port that I am taking it causes a risk of bleeding. The dr calls the surgeon who put me on the blood thinner and determines a blood test to see how I am clotting can solve the dilemma and quick as a wink I am off to the lab. I went to lab and you guessed it waited my turn, then back to orthopedics. It is after 10 because the View is on. I am now waiting my turn and waiting on the lab results. Finally the View is going off and I go back to find out if I can get the injection. I can. Yeah, but not til 12. So I head for home and 30 minutes horizontal time.
Now I am back at registration, where there is no air I am so sorry for the people in there, and I go to the x-ray area at the hospital to all together now - wait my turn. Finally I get the injection and head for home. I get settled and the dog wants out!
Ken told me he thinks my hair is growing back. I try looking in the sink mirror, but can't really tell so I sit at my makeup table and the mirror on the wall is also to far away. I pick up a hand mirror and I am looking and I am getting quite impressed my hair must be at least an inch long. Then Ken reminds me that the mirror I am holding is 10x magnification! Gotta love the man that keeps me grounded!
I am truly blessed. I got a precious letter from my granddaughter. Thank you all for the cards, calls, and the dinner Debbie and Nick. I have faith that this week will get easier with each day. September will be a cooler month and the new chemo will be easier on my body. I am thankful each day - some more than others!

Catch Up

Wednesday started early. I went to give blood, then I went on to school just in time for duty, the kids and I had a good day, and I left early all I missed was bus loading, but I got that handled. Thanks to Betty, Ann, and Neta. Ken and I met with the oncologist. My labs were ok, my glucose spiked and my potassium was low. Now I get to drink oj each day and eat a banana each day to help the lack of potassium. I got two patches for nausea. This will be the last of this chemo medicine. The next four rounds will be a chemo medicine that can affect the joints.

Thursday was another busy day. I arrived at school about 7 got things ready since I left early did duty at 7:45. We had a busy day. I stayed at school getting ready for the ABC's of S.E.C.C. Thank you Debbie and Charme'. We make a good team! We had a wonderful turnout. Then I went to sorority. It was beginning day and it was so wonderful to catch up and see my sisters.and of course eat. Cleo was a great hostess and we welcomed her into the grandmother club!

Friday was a busy day trying to finish up all our activities for the week. I left at noon so I could go take my chemo. Rebecca came in to sub. I fell blessed to have such an experienced teacher filling in. Thank you. Chemo at 1:00 then I went home and went upstairs to bed. Ken brought up a wonderful dinner of potato soup, crackers, and cherries. It was delicious, sadly I couldn't eat it all.

I slept pretty good. We got up about 7:30 and came downstairs. Ken fixed me ham and cheese omelet, sliced bananas, strawberries, cherries, and o.j. It was delicious, but again I couldn't eat it all. Ken went off to the remodel job and I headed upstairs to sleep with the trusty canine companion, Rusty. I woke up and ken got home in time to feed me again! He brought me a plate of cheese, sliced pork chop, crackers, cherries, and a fruit smoothie. I think I am about ready for a nap.

Upside

This morning it was raining. Not just raining but torrential rain, which turned out to be 4 1/2 inches. I am at school debating how long I should wait or should I just make a run for it. Now this is where the patience thing doesn't work for me, so I decide to make a run for it. Now, here is the upside. I simply took off my hair and put it under my shirt. I get in the door and I am sopping wet, but my hair looks great! What a blessing.

I had two students absent today. Our day was smooth, we got everything done that I wanted to do. At the end of the day I got the activities out for tomorrow, wrote the morning message, and I was ready to go. It was so nice to have everything so organized! My work this summer is paying off.
Ken went to work on the remodel job and I went into the sewing room. I completed several projects this weekend so I was able to do some embroidery. I am really feeling good, so good I even made dinner. Ken was pleasantly surprised that he didn't have to cook tonight. I know that I am spoiled, but I do try to spoil Ken too! It is what it is!
I talked to Madison, my 7year old granddaughter, about her first day of second grade. She wanted to know if I had my wig on and if I told my class I wear a wig?
Thanks for the card Mary Ann and the call Cleo. I am looking forward to a great week leading up to another round of chemo on Friday. I will take off on Friday and hope to go back on Monday. My sister, Janet, can't come for this round, she will be watching the US Open. Ken and I will miss her, but we are glad she will be having fun with her tennis gals.

Saturday

Friday was also a good day. We got up and we walked out the door and before we kissed good-bye, it hit me and I said "Oh shot!".Ken thought something was wrong and was all concerned and said, "What?" My answer, "I forgot my hair!" Ken thought this was very funny. He got a good laugh. As I retold this to Mary at school she said, "He doesn't see your hair just you. He really is a special man." I totally agree! I am very blessed.
Ken and I went out to Red Lobster for dinner and then to see Nanny McPhee. Dinner was very good and so was the movie. I enjoyed both.
Today Ken worked at the mall until 4 and then over to the remodel he is doing. So I went to school, came home and sewed a bit, went to see my new niece, went to Hancock's, and came home. I did cook pizza for dinner. I am really hot and I am trying to cool off. This too shall pass. I can handle this.
I got another cute card from Mary Ann and several calls. Thank you all for caring.

First Day of School

I was excited and ready to go early this morning. So off I went to school with my lunch all packed and all excited and a little bit wary of the unknown. I figure today was very important because it will determine how the year goes. I started the day with 20 and had 22 by lunchtime. Two people were absent today. We had a very busy morning. I got transportation bracelets on everyone while we figured out what their favorite color and food is. We spent time on a morning message and the calendar. We toured the school, sang some songs, went to the cafeteria for rules, read some books, explained stations, colored, cut, and glued Chester from The Kissing Hand, and played. That was just before lunch! Things went pretty smooth, I am pleased. They fell apart a bit after lunch. I think it was a long day for them. We rested, went back to stations, colored a Good First Day certificate, went to recess, went to music, and then went home. I know I am tired! It was a good day.

Getting Ready

Orientation from 8-12 today. I got to school about 7 determined to get a few things done before parents came in. In all I met 14 parents &/or students. We were free to go at noon, but I wasn't ready for tomorrow. So Charme' and I went out to eat and discussed our game plan for the day. I worked in my room until 6. I would still be working except Laura took over and helped me out. Thanks.
I have received some cards. Thank you Kathy, Sally, and Virginia. They mean a lot to me.
Tomorrow we start a new year. I am looking forward to this year and I am very thankful that I am. I am really blessed by the people I work with!

Getting Ready For School

Monday was a long day. Before school I went to the lab to get my lab work done, they were fine. It was another inservice day. Lots of information in one day. I was worn out and didn't spend time in my room. I hoped I would be able to do more today when I would be fresh.
I worked first getting handouts ready for my parents, then getting my students names up in the room, then organizing the school supplies, and then getting my room cleaned. I am so thankful to Dana, Beverly, and Rosa. Dana realized how tired I was and wouldn't take no for an answer. She went and got reinforcements and my room was done in ten minutes or less! They allowed me to be able to go home and get horizontal for an hour and change clothes before orientation began. Wow!
Twelve out of twenty of my students showed up. I am hoping the other eight will show up in the morning. I will work in my room while I wait for my students to come in tomorrow. We will work out our duty days and duties tomorrow. I have a lot of problem with the heat and I think I have a trade worked out to do a morning duty instead of a recess. Laura and the girls in my neighborhood are offering to take my duties, which I appreciate, but if I can do them I would like to. I work with the most caring people. I am so excited about school starting on Thursday!

Sunday

We are back from Texas. A busy trip! I went to about 5-6 Targets and 2 Mardels looking for just the items I needed for my classroom. I found some of them, but not the most important one. We also had to get a replacement birthday gift since we left the birthday gift at home. It was a pool party with a clever sandcastle cake.
We spent some quality shopping with my sister, the boys, Rusty and Zeke, enjoyed playing with each other, and we had fun getting our mom's birthday presents bought.
I was able to spend a couple of hours at school, come home and rest a bit, and go to church where the service was all about teachers and students and their abilities for the coming school year. I feel very positive about our school year and know God will hear our prayers.
Tomorrow will be busy. I need to get blood drawn 1st thing in the morning. We have another day of meetings tomorrow. It is so good to see all my friends again. So it is off to bed I go so I will be fresh tomorrow.

Contract Year Starts Today!!!

Yeah! Today is our 1st contract day. I am so excited!! I love a new school year. I spent yesterday at school with my granddaughter, Katelynn. She was a big help. She got a lot of things ready for me. I worked on trying to get my room unpacked. I am started, but didn't make much of a dent. I have 19 students and I did work up the transportation list, so I will have that ready.
I went to play bunco with the Bunco Babes group that I sometimes sub for. It was a fun evening and I enjoyed seeing all of the lovely gals in that group.
Today is inservice day, but I am even excited about what I'll be able to learn. This year will be a challenge because I won't have the energy I usually have. I know I will feel great for two out of every three weeks, so that is great. Oh, I want to share this. My daughter, Haley, is a CPA as you may know, but she is giving me such a different kind of encouragement. She told me that now I am 37 1/2 % through with the chemo! It's all about the numbers. Woo hoo!
I am so glad I am through the 1st week and have 2 weeks of feeling great coming my way. Bring it on because I am ready.
I am going to my granddaughter's 5th birthday party on Saturday. I will enjoy her excitement and hope she is never touched by what I am going through. That is my birthday wish for you Macie Jane. I love you. Have a great weekend, I know I will because I will be surrounded by my family.

Getting Better

Ken brought home Sea Bands yesterday. Margie recommended these. At this point I am willing to try almost anything to get rid of the nausea. I put them on and wore them since Monday night and all day yesterday. I think they helped but it was hard to tell because this is about when the nausea starts to come and go without any rhyme or reason.
I did get a couple of things done at school yesterday. Kena offered to get anything I needed outside of my room if I would just call. I didn't need anything, but Kena's offer was so kind. I work with the best friends. I got tired very fast, so I ended up coming home before I made as much headway as I had hoped. These days are tough. I know I need to rest, but I feel like that is all I do. I really feel like a slug. I am not practicing the patience thing very well. I do not enjoy resting and relaxing is really overrated! This is so hard.
Debbie and Nick provided dinner for us last night. After such a frustrating day it was nice to scoop out the roast and veggies without having to wait (No patience needed YEAH!).
Today I got up with Ken, showered, dressed, and sent him off to work. Then I sat down and before I knew it it was 2 hours later. Hmm! Not sure what happened. Now I don't have time to make anything for the Back To School Luncheon. I have considered my options and I am afraid I will have to go with the always popular orange puffed curly-ques. (Yes, Cheetos.) I have some really nice bakeware that my mom and Bob gave us for our anniversary that I can put it in.

Looking Ahead

Sunday was another good day! We had a leisurely morning which included omelets and fruit for breakfast. Thank you Janet. What a treat for Ken. Mostly he does the cooking and doesn't get waited on so Janet is doubly appreciated! Rusty and Zeke are having fun and we are having fun watching the two big dogs acting like big dogs. We all enjoyed the sermon at church. Then we went out to eat. This was kind of sad, because that meant it was closing in on the time for my sister to leave.
The patch must of run it's course. The nausea started coming Sunday evening. Monday I tried to rest. I don't like to rest. I tried doing a few things but the nausea kept bothering me.
I briefly went to a meeting at Jane's house. She had a delicious Mexican casserole and brownies for us. You do not leave Jane's house hungry. Anyway, I had to leave early because it was bunco night. Melissa came and picked me up so I wouldn't have to drive, thank you. I was tired from all that resting today I guess. It was a lovely evening at Kena's. She is a wonderful hostess and really was rolling the twos! We had a fun time. I was ready to get home and horizontal.
Today I am moving slowly. The nausea is there, but I have to be productive so I am off to school. I need to get my room ready. This means unpacking everything that I packed up last May. I am looking forward to Thursday when my granddaughter will come help me for the day. She has helped me before and she is a good worker. Another blessing in my life.
So for now I am off to school.

Chemo 3rd Time Around

I went to the cancer center armed with the 3 day pill and the patch I put on yesterday. I read a little, dozed a little, blackberry messengered my family, and talked to a woman who is battling breast cancer for the third time. I am feeling blessed and counting my many blessings, The time went fast and I came home and laid down. Janet and Zeke, her standard poodle arrived. Rusty and I were very happy! I was feeling fine with the exception of a headache so I took a headache pill. About 4 I was getting hungry and Ken brought me a chocolate milk shake. Then around 6:30 Janet had dinner catered from dominoes. Ken came in a bit later from the remodel job he is working on and ate. Overall today is going well. I have dozed but not really slept.
I did sleep good last night. Janet had a great fresh fruit breakfast. Just like on a cruise. Wonderful choices. Today I feel pretty good just a little tired. All is well with my world!
I hope to touch bases with Bryn in Irag and see and talk to him.
Have a good weekend enjoy your family and do something nice for yourself.