Okay, it has been a bad week for appointments for me. While we were on vacation I called and got an eye dr. appointment. So, after my workout on Tuesday I went to the eye dr. As it turned out I was a month early and an hour late. July 26th at 8:00 is the real time. Boy was my face red. I felt on the not so smart side. When we got home from vacation we had a weeks worth of mail. I went through it. One item in the mail was my 3 month calendar from the cancer center. I looked at it and saw that my treatment was on Thursday the 30th. I didn't think to much about it, just guessed they would be closed on Friday for the 4th. Then looked at the other months and went on. The day I Iooked at this was Sunday, I talked to several people and planed my week around getting treatment on Thursday. On Wednesday after I got home from working on my room I listened to a message from the cancer center where they wondered where I was. My NVG, heart test, was scheduled that morning with treatment after it. Messed up two appointments this week. So now it is scheduled for Tuesday at 10:00.
I stayed home today. I have so many projects in the works that I decided to work on some of them. I kind of feel guilty when I just sew. So I came up with a very nice compromise. I sewed for an hour (set a timer and everything) then I cleaned for 15 minutes. Then I repeated it. You can get a lot done in that time! So I finished a t-shirt quilt top and I started getting another quilt top ready for quilting. (This one is for Virginia. I know she is talking bad about me because I have had it for over a year!)
It was old man night and Ken's dad came over to eat with us. I put together a quick dinner. Bonus! Ken ate with us. He has a remodel job he has been working on, but he was on the roof most of the day working on air conditioners today and the heat zapped him.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Big Red Dog
First workout in over a week! It was pretty good. I rode the bike longer than the usual 30 minutes, but just because I wanted to finish the show I was watching! So I rode about 8-10 minutes longer.
I worked at school today. I pulled out the stuff in the bottom cabinets. I found some stuff to get rid of and I put a lot up in the bottom cabinets. I am slowly and surely getting my cabinets organized. It feels so good!
I came home about 4:00. I got ice tea started, put the ribs on to par boil, loaded the dishwasher, put together a broccoli casserole, made a smoothie, and went to sit down. Unfortunately, I wasn't paying attention to the big red dog. I got up at 5:00 to put the broccoli casserole in and found that he took the foil off the casserole dish without tearing it at all and ate 3/4 of it! That is one of the many reasons I often refer to him as the damn big red dog! Of course, things like this seem to always happen on old man night. AGH! So now I will scramble to put together something else.
I worked at school today. I pulled out the stuff in the bottom cabinets. I found some stuff to get rid of and I put a lot up in the bottom cabinets. I am slowly and surely getting my cabinets organized. It feels so good!
I came home about 4:00. I got ice tea started, put the ribs on to par boil, loaded the dishwasher, put together a broccoli casserole, made a smoothie, and went to sit down. Unfortunately, I wasn't paying attention to the big red dog. I got up at 5:00 to put the broccoli casserole in and found that he took the foil off the casserole dish without tearing it at all and ate 3/4 of it! That is one of the many reasons I often refer to him as the damn big red dog! Of course, things like this seem to always happen on old man night. AGH! So now I will scramble to put together something else.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Tires!
We stayed up until 2 am with the kids. I couldn't believe it was so late. Saturday we got on the road at 9:00. The speed limit was 55 again. We drove across Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and back into Tennessee and just into Arkansas. We finally stopped got a room, picked up Taco Bell, ate, and lights out. TIRED!
Sunday found us on the road again. We got to Alma and stopped for brunch with Cassie, Phillip, Peyton, and Phillips mom Jama Kay. It was a nice stop and we enjoyed seeing the kids. Then we were driving again! We were glad to get home. We went by and got Rusty, the big red dog, from Kevin and Nicole's house. Ken was happy to see him and he was happy to see Ken. We unloaded and chilled out.
Ken and I got up fairly early and loaded up the cans we have been saving for the past year or so. We had nine kitchen garbage bags. We got there and there were four vehicles ahead of us, so we got to wait. We had 40 pounds of cans. We netted $22.00. Nice! Then I went to get the front end aligned and balanced because we noticed it shaking a bit on our trip. I went to a local place and he said it would be 45 minutes. Not bad, so I decided to wait. Big mistake! Two hours later it was determined it was loose tie rods. Not so nice. Almost $250.00 and three hours later I have the van back. I think the oil change will wait until next payday. I went out to Walmart to pick up some groceries. As a friend would say it was just "Dammit Hot" today. I made some homemade ice cream and it was ready just as Ken and I finished the pork chops Ken grilled.
Ken goes back to work tomorrow. I will go back to working out tomorrow. I haven't worked out for so long. I am dreading going, but I know I have to. I am very glad to be home. No matter where you go east or west home is best! (Not original, but I don't know where I heard it.) My leg has really hurt today, I hope it goes away over night.
Sunday found us on the road again. We got to Alma and stopped for brunch with Cassie, Phillip, Peyton, and Phillips mom Jama Kay. It was a nice stop and we enjoyed seeing the kids. Then we were driving again! We were glad to get home. We went by and got Rusty, the big red dog, from Kevin and Nicole's house. Ken was happy to see him and he was happy to see Ken. We unloaded and chilled out.
Ken and I got up fairly early and loaded up the cans we have been saving for the past year or so. We had nine kitchen garbage bags. We got there and there were four vehicles ahead of us, so we got to wait. We had 40 pounds of cans. We netted $22.00. Nice! Then I went to get the front end aligned and balanced because we noticed it shaking a bit on our trip. I went to a local place and he said it would be 45 minutes. Not bad, so I decided to wait. Big mistake! Two hours later it was determined it was loose tie rods. Not so nice. Almost $250.00 and three hours later I have the van back. I think the oil change will wait until next payday. I went out to Walmart to pick up some groceries. As a friend would say it was just "Dammit Hot" today. I made some homemade ice cream and it was ready just as Ken and I finished the pork chops Ken grilled.
Ken goes back to work tomorrow. I will go back to working out tomorrow. I haven't worked out for so long. I am dreading going, but I know I have to. I am very glad to be home. No matter where you go east or west home is best! (Not original, but I don't know where I heard it.) My leg has really hurt today, I hope it goes away over night.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Dinner
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| The hot tub my favorite place to watch fireflies! |
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| Our Love Nest in the Smokies! |
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| We went to eat at Paula Dean's. |
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| Vicki and Bryn went to see Paula too! |
We spent a wonderful day with Bryn and Vicki. Bryn worked, but got off early, Yeah! We went down to the river area in Savannah and walked into several shops, watched some of the street shows, listened to some of the music, and maneuvered the parking situation. Vicki was able to get us reservations at Paula Dean's so that is where we ate a delicious meal. It was a bit pricey, but it was good! Now we are all digesting and watching a movie. Vicki is making me a list of things she wants, recipes, Shawnee Mill brownie mix, and something else, but I don't remember and that is why she is making me a list. I hope she e-mails it to me so I will see it after we get home! Pitiful! We haven't been able to stay with the kids long, but it has been fun. We will get on the road again tomorrow! I will be glad to be home.
Driving
Our last day at the cabin. We got a late start on the day, but made it to one of the many Flapjack houses to try their pancakes. Ken has talked about going since we arrived. This was Ken's idea. Did he eat pancakes, NO. But I did. Hmm! It just occurred to me he doesn't even really like pancakes, but he knows that I do. So just another way he was putting me first. That just beats all! He is such a kind person.
We did a little shopping and went back to the cabin. He watched some movies and I did stuff on the computer. (New patterns so I was hunting just the right material and prioritizing the projects that I have started, waiting at home, and the new ones I just bought.) So, when he was hungry I heard from him about dinner. We went out to Olive Garden. My dinner was so delicious. I tried something new and it was a wonderful choice. Ken got the same thing he gets every time we go and he was very happy and full! We got back to the cabin and watched some movies, did some laundry, and snuggled.
We got up Thursday, finished laundry, packed, gathered trash, and loaded up. Then we hit the road for Bryn and Vicki's house at Ft. Stewart, GA. It looked to be about an 8 hour drive. Unfortunately the route we went there was never a speed over 55. We drove most of it at 55, but there was a lot at 35 and 45.AGH! It sure seemed slow. We drove through North Carolina but a lot was in South Carolina. I (notice I not We) saw some of the USA I had never been in before. Thank you Ken for driving the last hour or two. I appreciated it when you took over. I was tired of driving slow 2 lane roads in the rain. We called the kids and they gave us better directions, well directions because we didn't have any.
Yeah! We arrived. The last time we were here was in February, when Bryn was home on R&R from Iraq. Since then they (actually she) moved from that house to the one they are in now. It is bigger and nicer. I can understand why she wanted to move and did it by herself while he was still in Iraq.
Bryn left early for work. Ken and Vicki are asleep and I am enjoying the quiet. I don't know what the plans are. I can only hope there is a fabric shop involved!
We did a little shopping and went back to the cabin. He watched some movies and I did stuff on the computer. (New patterns so I was hunting just the right material and prioritizing the projects that I have started, waiting at home, and the new ones I just bought.) So, when he was hungry I heard from him about dinner. We went out to Olive Garden. My dinner was so delicious. I tried something new and it was a wonderful choice. Ken got the same thing he gets every time we go and he was very happy and full! We got back to the cabin and watched some movies, did some laundry, and snuggled.
We got up Thursday, finished laundry, packed, gathered trash, and loaded up. Then we hit the road for Bryn and Vicki's house at Ft. Stewart, GA. It looked to be about an 8 hour drive. Unfortunately the route we went there was never a speed over 55. We drove most of it at 55, but there was a lot at 35 and 45.AGH! It sure seemed slow. We drove through North Carolina but a lot was in South Carolina. I (notice I not We) saw some of the USA I had never been in before. Thank you Ken for driving the last hour or two. I appreciated it when you took over. I was tired of driving slow 2 lane roads in the rain. We called the kids and they gave us better directions, well directions because we didn't have any.
Yeah! We arrived. The last time we were here was in February, when Bryn was home on R&R from Iraq. Since then they (actually she) moved from that house to the one they are in now. It is bigger and nicer. I can understand why she wanted to move and did it by herself while he was still in Iraq.
Bryn left early for work. Ken and Vicki are asleep and I am enjoying the quiet. I don't know what the plans are. I can only hope there is a fabric shop involved!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Patterns
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| The sign on our cabin. |
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| Downtown Gatlinburg. |
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| Scenery from our drive today. |
Today we were busy. We slept late. Then we drove to Sevierville to check out some quilt shops. The first one was eh! The second one we hit the jackpot! So many cool patterns. Lots of beautiful fabrics. I walked out with four patterns. Oh so cute patterns! A few are destined to become presents.
The mountain drive we took was awesome! The brook that ran by our drive was so beautiful. The Magnolias are growing wild in the forest. They seem so out of place. We saw beautiful waterfalls. The road was good but very windy. We started to walk to one of the waterfalls and the heat got to me and we turned around. The walk was very steep. I got in some exercise, so even though I didn't make it I did get some exercise!
Gatlinburg is very busy, but oh so pretty. The streets are lined with flower baskets on the lightposts, flower boxes on the rails, and flower planters along the street. Flowers are everywhere, I love it!
Ken and I went out for steak dinner. We had good service and the food was very good. It is so nice when everything comes together. Then we took some pictures of some of the wedding chapels we have seen around town. Then one of my favorite parts of the day, hot tub time watching fireflys. Tomorrow will be our last day here. I am about ready to be home, so that is okay with me.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Shops and More Shops
Sunday morning we got up rested and ready to go. We only had about a five hour drive ahead of us. No problems. However, the five our turned into a bit longer because you only go 35-45 miles per hour for the last 25 miles or so. I was tired, traffic was heavy, and there was so much to see! We exited I-40 and drove through Sieverville, Pigeon Forge and then into Gatlinburg. All at very reduced speeds, windy roads, and heavy traffic. Then we turned off the main road in Gatlinburg and went up into the hills on narrow windy roads! We were so glad to finally reach our cabin called "A Love Nest In The Mountains". It is a three story cabin. Cute and cozy. The hot tub has been enjoyed.
Today we went and explored the eight mile loop of crafters. You drive until a shop or group of shops catches your eye and then you stop and go in. Ken about went into cardiac arrest when he realized we were buying Christmas presents in June. That took most of the morning. Then we went downtown to the "Village" area. More cute shops. Here though it is very congested. Parking is off the main road and then you walk a block or more (about three in our case). We walked down one side going in and out many shops then we crossed the street and did the same on the other side. It is people to people out on the sidewalks but better in the shops. There are crosswalks painted at regular intervals (not just at lights) and pedestrians just stand ready to cross and traffic stops for you. Very friendly and courteous! I was very impressed. After another three hours I was becoming very hot. So we gave it up and went back to the car. We picked up just a few things, but we enjoyed the time together. I felt like I got my walking in. We drove to Pigeon Forge and ate at one of Ken's favorite places Fudruckers. I had a wonderful burger with caramelized onions on it. Then we went to Walmart to pick p a few necessities.
I talked to Kevin tonight and he hasn't killed Rusty and the home front was okay when he went by. So that is good.
Tomorrow the plan now is to go drive the route called Cade's Cove. It will take us up into the Smokies, we will see some wildlife (maybe) and some beautiful scenery, plus the North Carolina state line. Hmm! Will it be a dotted line or solid?
Today we went and explored the eight mile loop of crafters. You drive until a shop or group of shops catches your eye and then you stop and go in. Ken about went into cardiac arrest when he realized we were buying Christmas presents in June. That took most of the morning. Then we went downtown to the "Village" area. More cute shops. Here though it is very congested. Parking is off the main road and then you walk a block or more (about three in our case). We walked down one side going in and out many shops then we crossed the street and did the same on the other side. It is people to people out on the sidewalks but better in the shops. There are crosswalks painted at regular intervals (not just at lights) and pedestrians just stand ready to cross and traffic stops for you. Very friendly and courteous! I was very impressed. After another three hours I was becoming very hot. So we gave it up and went back to the car. We picked up just a few things, but we enjoyed the time together. I felt like I got my walking in. We drove to Pigeon Forge and ate at one of Ken's favorite places Fudruckers. I had a wonderful burger with caramelized onions on it. Then we went to Walmart to pick p a few necessities.
I talked to Kevin tonight and he hasn't killed Rusty and the home front was okay when he went by. So that is good.
Tomorrow the plan now is to go drive the route called Cade's Cove. It will take us up into the Smokies, we will see some wildlife (maybe) and some beautiful scenery, plus the North Carolina state line. Hmm! Will it be a dotted line or solid?
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Togetherness
Friday, we left Shawnee early to get to my orthopedic doctor's office for an 8:30 appointment. I am so glad Ken goes with me, because I am not sure I would be able to make it. I didn't get to see the actual doctor just the pa. I did get a good report from the x-rays and he was very happy with my progress. About then, I am thinking Yeah! no more coming back here. But, that is not so. He wants me to come back in December. They will count that as my year follow up and then I think (hope) I will be done.
Ken and I then went to the sewing shop where I got my new machine updated and found out why the needle was doing funky things. I also looked and got brochures on a couple of sewing machines. Not that I am planning on buying this week. (We are on vacation!) Then we went to the shoe store where you walk over the mat and the computer tells where your weight is distributed on your feet, if you roll your feet in or out, and about your arch. Then based on that they recommend certain brands of shoes. I got a pair of Brooks, they are green. I really wanted the other pair that were purple. I think the green ones felt just a bit better. RATS!
We planned to leave while the chickens were still asleep until Ken went out to mow. When he was looking about he noticed that someone had robbed us! This is the second time in a couple of weeks. The first time it was tools out of his truck, but he didn't know when or where. This time it was out of the shed. Right out of our back yard. So he called the police after much urging. There wasn't anything they could do, but they need to know it is going on. He locked everything up tight, but couldn't get a couple of things in the shed. We will see if they are there when we return.
In March, a vacation sounds wonderful. We narrowed it down to Gatlinburg, TN, New Orleans, LA, and a cruise. My good friend, Ann suggested cruise. We didn't listen and went with Gatlinburg. We are currently in Jackson, TN about 5 hours away. All I can say is thank you honey for driving 2 hours, I couldn't of done it without your help! We left home about 9:30 after checking the pawn shops. (No luck) We finished driving around 7:00. We tried to stop and see Cassie and her family, but they were tied up when we went through near her, but we did stop in Little Rock and eat with Carol and Jim. It was great to see them. I can't remember for sure how long it had been, but when we sat down it felt like it was just yesterday since we had talked. I hope the drive is uneventful tomorrow. I am looking forward to getting to our cabin and relaxing. About now, I am wishing I had listened to you, Ann! I am sure (I hope) tomorrow will be wonderful. But, it really doesn't matter because I am with Ken!
Ken and I then went to the sewing shop where I got my new machine updated and found out why the needle was doing funky things. I also looked and got brochures on a couple of sewing machines. Not that I am planning on buying this week. (We are on vacation!) Then we went to the shoe store where you walk over the mat and the computer tells where your weight is distributed on your feet, if you roll your feet in or out, and about your arch. Then based on that they recommend certain brands of shoes. I got a pair of Brooks, they are green. I really wanted the other pair that were purple. I think the green ones felt just a bit better. RATS!
We planned to leave while the chickens were still asleep until Ken went out to mow. When he was looking about he noticed that someone had robbed us! This is the second time in a couple of weeks. The first time it was tools out of his truck, but he didn't know when or where. This time it was out of the shed. Right out of our back yard. So he called the police after much urging. There wasn't anything they could do, but they need to know it is going on. He locked everything up tight, but couldn't get a couple of things in the shed. We will see if they are there when we return.
In March, a vacation sounds wonderful. We narrowed it down to Gatlinburg, TN, New Orleans, LA, and a cruise. My good friend, Ann suggested cruise. We didn't listen and went with Gatlinburg. We are currently in Jackson, TN about 5 hours away. All I can say is thank you honey for driving 2 hours, I couldn't of done it without your help! We left home about 9:30 after checking the pawn shops. (No luck) We finished driving around 7:00. We tried to stop and see Cassie and her family, but they were tied up when we went through near her, but we did stop in Little Rock and eat with Carol and Jim. It was great to see them. I can't remember for sure how long it had been, but when we sat down it felt like it was just yesterday since we had talked. I hope the drive is uneventful tomorrow. I am looking forward to getting to our cabin and relaxing. About now, I am wishing I had listened to you, Ann! I am sure (I hope) tomorrow will be wonderful. But, it really doesn't matter because I am with Ken!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Brillo Pads
Today was a little easier to get up and go. I think it is because I have a Dr.'s appointment at 8:30 in OKC. I know if I don't workout first thing it won't get done, so I figured today was my Friday! Tomorrow I will get new shoes! I can't wait. I hope they will help my feet not hurt so much.
I am so thankful to have the hair I have. I have curls in the back and straight in the front and sides. It is getting long (all of an inch to inch and a half), but it won't do anything. It doesn't part it just stands up and looks like an sos brillo pad! I know everyone says product, but I am not a product kind of girl. That is just too girly!
I got some errands done and had a pedicure today. I need to start cooking dinner for old man night. I am going to try a tenderloin. Hmm! We will see how it tastes.
I am so thankful to have the hair I have. I have curls in the back and straight in the front and sides. It is getting long (all of an inch to inch and a half), but it won't do anything. It doesn't part it just stands up and looks like an sos brillo pad! I know everyone says product, but I am not a product kind of girl. That is just too girly!
I got some errands done and had a pedicure today. I need to start cooking dinner for old man night. I am going to try a tenderloin. Hmm! We will see how it tastes.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Planning
I worked Monday in my classroom organizing the cabinets. I filled almost all the cabinets. The only problem is there is a LOT of stuff that didn't go back in that I need to make decisions about. Not to worry (yet) I have more cabinets to go through. I feel pretty good about the organization thus far. Monday night was our monthly bunco night. Lots of fun and laughs. Pam hosted us. She had great snacks and she has a lovely home. I was not a big winner, but I got to participate in a bunc off! Yeah! I love bunc offs!
Tuesday was a stay at home day. It was a very enjoyable day sewing. I started out working on a t-shirt quilt, but ended up completing a burpee order. Then, it was old man night so I cooked dinner complete with homemade s'mores ice cream. (In the new ice cream maker, one of our goodies from Sur la Table.) I loved the hamburger pie, but didn't care for the ice cream.
I am trying to take over the cooking so Ken doesn't have to since he is working another job. I don't really enjoy the planning, shopping, cooking, or cleaning. I usually like the eating! Hmm! Maybe that is why I am so fluffy. I wasn't very motivated to go workout this morning (or any other day this week). I tried a different elliptical today. It was very hard! It is ridiculous, but there are about six different elliptical machines. I have tried three. I stayed on it for ten extremely long minutes. I did some sit-ups and then I rode the bike for thirty minutes. I am so very glad when it is over.
Today I worked with Charme' planning for next year. We are having so much fun leisurely planning fun and exciting ways to get the children learning. We are exploring new ideas and trying to remember just how much repetition it takes to get a good foundation for future learning.
I found a wonderful sounding pizza in the freezer, so I fixed it for dinner. It smelled good, but I was not impressed. Ken didn't really like it either. Bummer! I need to come up with something better tomorrow night. It is old man night again, so ... I may sew again tomorrow. Friday Ken is going with me to the orthopedic Dr. appointment. Then we are going to buy new tennis shoes and going to the store where I bought my sewing machine to get an upgrade put on it. I haven't bought tennis shoes since my first hip surgery three years ago. (I know, I know, but please don't tell my mom or daughters.) My feet are really bothering me, so I hope new shoes help. I am going where you walk across a mat and they see how your weight is distributed and they have you try on shoes designed for your feet. I liked it last time, (3 years ago).
Tuesday was a stay at home day. It was a very enjoyable day sewing. I started out working on a t-shirt quilt, but ended up completing a burpee order. Then, it was old man night so I cooked dinner complete with homemade s'mores ice cream. (In the new ice cream maker, one of our goodies from Sur la Table.) I loved the hamburger pie, but didn't care for the ice cream.
I am trying to take over the cooking so Ken doesn't have to since he is working another job. I don't really enjoy the planning, shopping, cooking, or cleaning. I usually like the eating! Hmm! Maybe that is why I am so fluffy. I wasn't very motivated to go workout this morning (or any other day this week). I tried a different elliptical today. It was very hard! It is ridiculous, but there are about six different elliptical machines. I have tried three. I stayed on it for ten extremely long minutes. I did some sit-ups and then I rode the bike for thirty minutes. I am so very glad when it is over.
Today I worked with Charme' planning for next year. We are having so much fun leisurely planning fun and exciting ways to get the children learning. We are exploring new ideas and trying to remember just how much repetition it takes to get a good foundation for future learning.
I found a wonderful sounding pizza in the freezer, so I fixed it for dinner. It smelled good, but I was not impressed. Ken didn't really like it either. Bummer! I need to come up with something better tomorrow night. It is old man night again, so ... I may sew again tomorrow. Friday Ken is going with me to the orthopedic Dr. appointment. Then we are going to buy new tennis shoes and going to the store where I bought my sewing machine to get an upgrade put on it. I haven't bought tennis shoes since my first hip surgery three years ago. (I know, I know, but please don't tell my mom or daughters.) My feet are really bothering me, so I hope new shoes help. I am going where you walk across a mat and they see how your weight is distributed and they have you try on shoes designed for your feet. I liked it last time, (3 years ago).
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Domestic Bliss!
I did a lite workout on Friday morning. I worked at school. One thing I have needed to do since we moved in over a weekend three years ago, is to organize my cabinets. I started pulling out things on one end of the cabinets and then I started putting things back in and I am getting rid of a few things. Maybe the get rid of pile will enlarge as I continue, which is on the agenda for this week. There are eight doors and I am on the fourth door of the large cabinets.
I went to the cancer center and got herceptin Friday afternoon. Then I went home and crashed!
We got up Saturday morning and drove to Texas. My sister had a delicious lunch waiting for us. Rusty played with his cousin Zeke (who is a standard poodle). Rusty tore up most of Zeke's toys. Thankfully Zeke didn't care. We went to Sur La Tab and Ken got some goodies. We then went to the performance center to watch Macie Jane dance. She was so good. She knew her dance better than the other girls. (That is the truth, not just her proud grandma.) We went out to eat to BJ's. Oh the pizza was fantastic! Thank you for suggesting it Janet, Kayla, and Steve! Yummy!
Ken and I got home and I had a burst of domestic bliss. I mixed up some chicken and soups, put them in some pie dough, used one of the new kitchen toys to crimp them, and had them ready for the oven when Ken got home. Wow! I should be good for quite some time.
I went to the cancer center and got herceptin Friday afternoon. Then I went home and crashed!
We got up Saturday morning and drove to Texas. My sister had a delicious lunch waiting for us. Rusty played with his cousin Zeke (who is a standard poodle). Rusty tore up most of Zeke's toys. Thankfully Zeke didn't care. We went to Sur La Tab and Ken got some goodies. We then went to the performance center to watch Macie Jane dance. She was so good. She knew her dance better than the other girls. (That is the truth, not just her proud grandma.) We went out to eat to BJ's. Oh the pizza was fantastic! Thank you for suggesting it Janet, Kayla, and Steve! Yummy!
Ken and I got home and I had a burst of domestic bliss. I mixed up some chicken and soups, put them in some pie dough, used one of the new kitchen toys to crimp them, and had them ready for the oven when Ken got home. Wow! I should be good for quite some time.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Row Row Your Boat
I have had some very productive days. Tuesday Charme' and I got together and started planning for next year. Sounds early, but it sure makes next year feel more put together and a bit less "I've got so much to do". We tried it last summer for this last year and it was nice having almost the first half of the year planned. Yesterday was productive in a different way. I met with the math mapping team for our school and we wound up the mapping for the year. I input the second 9 weeks, while Tami, Melisa, Connie, and Angie got the 3rd and 4th nine weeks lined out and ready to input. I will get that input soon. We got hung up with linear measurement, but we finally came to a consensus after phone calls, computer consulting, pepole consulting, and discussing every aspect you could possible imagine to include apples! Thanks Tami for keeping us on track. Thanks for giving up your morning girls. I enjoyed lunch with you. Just remember you can't go wrong with chicken, bacon, and avocado.
Then Ken and I spent part of the afternoon with the oncologist. I did my lab work right after lunch. (I almost forgot.) It was a pretty good appointment. She confirmed I will continue taking herceptin through September, I need another NVG test this month (that is the heart test), it takes a year for your body to recover from the effects of chemo for 85% of people who have had chemo and up to 2 years for others, and I have lymphodema. (I am ordering lots of patience! Help!) They will make an appointment for me to go to Mercy to the lymphoma clinic. So, I am going to explore another little side road on my journey to recovery. Other than those little details, she was very pleased at how well I am doing and that I am exercising.
Well, I have a little comparison for you. At some point I will probably need to wear the undergarment (from hell) that I met last month getting "hot" for the wedding. You might be familiar with the spanks episode. Since I will only wear it for very very special dress up occasions, and those don't come along very often, it is kind of like childbirth, you forget how horrible the experience was! And you do it again! Since I am trying to work out everyday I am not getting a chance to forget between struggles with the sports bra. The getting on is okay. The getting off is still another story. Maybe as I get streamlined it will become easier. That is me trying to be positive! I think I need to get new work out shoes. My feet hurt. My shoes are about three years old. I went to a store in OKC where you walk on a mat and they sell you shoes that are designed for your foot type. They sold me! I have enjoyed these shoes, but they are three years old. (Please don't tell my mom or my daughters. I can just imagine!) The shoes are a bit pricier than I would normally spend, but they feel good. So, that needs to go on the to do list.
Oh, I almost forgot the highlight of my workout on Tuesday. My workout buddy, Laura almost had to help me out. I am trying to branch out and try some new things so my workout is as effective as possible and as least mind numbing as possible. I think today is the day to try the rowing machine. I have been eyeing it for a couple of weeks. I might as well have someone there who gets me when I make a fool of myself, since I don't know what I am doing. But I have been watching people use this machine for some time now. Anyway, Laura is off working on upper body strength and I decide to do some rowing. I get down on it, almost to the ground. I get my feet positioned it it, there is a strap that you can undo to make it easier, but in my wisdom I think I'll just slip my big feet in. Uhuh that happened in 5-10 minutes! Hmm should of used the strap. Finally I am ready to start rowing, but the oars are attached to the bar infront of my feet and my knees are under my chin and I discovered my arms are to short for my body!! Who knew? I've never felt like my arm growth was stunted. Okay, my options are to call for Laura to hand me my oars or to push off with my feet and hope when I bend I have enough momentum going that I can grab the oars! If you know me you can already guess how this is going to go. Yes, I push off! I don't think many people (since there weren't many, at this hour, which makes the gym on the quiet side) noticed the odd sounds each time I attempted to push off, rebound, and strain to reach farther. I did prevail! I was worn out before I started rowing, but I did try something new! Oh wait it isn't over. I get done and I have to rehook the oar. Ha Ha! I'll be cool and hold it until I get my feet out. Oops! It is just as hard if not harder to get the shoes out of the foot places. Do I use the strap? Well no I am holding the oar, I just struggle. I get my feet out, the oar re-attached, and it is time to get up. Hmm! I am really down low, there is nothing for leverage to help me get up, and the seat keeps moving when I try to stand. I did finally make it up (without help). I was complaining to Laura about my stomach ( I couldn't let her know how defective my arms are). I told her I knew I was repositioning, knew my body was changing, but I thought my stomach was getting bigger. Laura didn't miss a beat, she said that it wasn't getting bigger my body was getting smaller! Ahh! That made me feel better, kind of. She is a good friend!
It is herceptin time again on Friday. I have been so tired lately, I almost can't imagine how much more it will zap me. It will and I WILL get through it. It is so hot outside and walking from a parking lot into a building wears me out. I know it isn't the walking, but it is the heat.
Congratulations Charme'! She called yesterday with the news that her 10th grandbaby was born. Her daughter and granddaughter are both healthy and doing fine. I am so happy for you. Miracles do happen! God bless you and yours.
Then Ken and I spent part of the afternoon with the oncologist. I did my lab work right after lunch. (I almost forgot.) It was a pretty good appointment. She confirmed I will continue taking herceptin through September, I need another NVG test this month (that is the heart test), it takes a year for your body to recover from the effects of chemo for 85% of people who have had chemo and up to 2 years for others, and I have lymphodema. (I am ordering lots of patience! Help!) They will make an appointment for me to go to Mercy to the lymphoma clinic. So, I am going to explore another little side road on my journey to recovery. Other than those little details, she was very pleased at how well I am doing and that I am exercising.
Well, I have a little comparison for you. At some point I will probably need to wear the undergarment (from hell) that I met last month getting "hot" for the wedding. You might be familiar with the spanks episode. Since I will only wear it for very very special dress up occasions, and those don't come along very often, it is kind of like childbirth, you forget how horrible the experience was! And you do it again! Since I am trying to work out everyday I am not getting a chance to forget between struggles with the sports bra. The getting on is okay. The getting off is still another story. Maybe as I get streamlined it will become easier. That is me trying to be positive! I think I need to get new work out shoes. My feet hurt. My shoes are about three years old. I went to a store in OKC where you walk on a mat and they sell you shoes that are designed for your foot type. They sold me! I have enjoyed these shoes, but they are three years old. (Please don't tell my mom or my daughters. I can just imagine!) The shoes are a bit pricier than I would normally spend, but they feel good. So, that needs to go on the to do list.
Oh, I almost forgot the highlight of my workout on Tuesday. My workout buddy, Laura almost had to help me out. I am trying to branch out and try some new things so my workout is as effective as possible and as least mind numbing as possible. I think today is the day to try the rowing machine. I have been eyeing it for a couple of weeks. I might as well have someone there who gets me when I make a fool of myself, since I don't know what I am doing. But I have been watching people use this machine for some time now. Anyway, Laura is off working on upper body strength and I decide to do some rowing. I get down on it, almost to the ground. I get my feet positioned it it, there is a strap that you can undo to make it easier, but in my wisdom I think I'll just slip my big feet in. Uhuh that happened in 5-10 minutes! Hmm should of used the strap. Finally I am ready to start rowing, but the oars are attached to the bar infront of my feet and my knees are under my chin and I discovered my arms are to short for my body!! Who knew? I've never felt like my arm growth was stunted. Okay, my options are to call for Laura to hand me my oars or to push off with my feet and hope when I bend I have enough momentum going that I can grab the oars! If you know me you can already guess how this is going to go. Yes, I push off! I don't think many people (since there weren't many, at this hour, which makes the gym on the quiet side) noticed the odd sounds each time I attempted to push off, rebound, and strain to reach farther. I did prevail! I was worn out before I started rowing, but I did try something new! Oh wait it isn't over. I get done and I have to rehook the oar. Ha Ha! I'll be cool and hold it until I get my feet out. Oops! It is just as hard if not harder to get the shoes out of the foot places. Do I use the strap? Well no I am holding the oar, I just struggle. I get my feet out, the oar re-attached, and it is time to get up. Hmm! I am really down low, there is nothing for leverage to help me get up, and the seat keeps moving when I try to stand. I did finally make it up (without help). I was complaining to Laura about my stomach ( I couldn't let her know how defective my arms are). I told her I knew I was repositioning, knew my body was changing, but I thought my stomach was getting bigger. Laura didn't miss a beat, she said that it wasn't getting bigger my body was getting smaller! Ahh! That made me feel better, kind of. She is a good friend!
It is herceptin time again on Friday. I have been so tired lately, I almost can't imagine how much more it will zap me. It will and I WILL get through it. It is so hot outside and walking from a parking lot into a building wears me out. I know it isn't the walking, but it is the heat.
Congratulations Charme'! She called yesterday with the news that her 10th grandbaby was born. Her daughter and granddaughter are both healthy and doing fine. I am so happy for you. Miracles do happen! God bless you and yours.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Extra Workout
I got up and first on my list today was workout. I am so glad I can do it first thing in the mornings. Several years ago one of my daughters was encouraging me in my workouts and bought me a sports bra. She asked me recently if I'd ever worn it. I fessed up and told her no I hadn't. That was hard to do. Well, today was the day new workout clothes and the sports bra. The question was how do you get the dang thing on. Over the head and then try to get into the rest or all in at once. I decided to go head first then pull, tug, and yank it down in place. Wow who invented these! The new pants fit, but the tank was skin tight and a no go. I had a great workout 10 minutes on the machine from hell, 10 minutes on the arm bicycle, 30 minutes walking, and 25 sit ups. The workout didn't quit there because I discovered that getting out of the sports bra was another workout in itself. Trying to pull that off over my head when I was hot, sweaty, and tired was a new experience. Yikes!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Sad Day
Tomorrow I am going to wear my new workout clothes. I just know my workout will be so much better since I will be dressed appropriately. Gag Gag! My daughters will be happy!
I finished the cutest pink windmill quilt for the store. I have also been working on some burp rags for Trina and Burpees for Janet. I also got started on another t-shirt quilt for Jane. I actually have quite a few more sewing projects in the works. I also finished up a box to hold shot glasses for Kevin and Nicole. Lots of projects to do and finish! Oh how I love summer when I have so much time to not finish anything! Agh! I would like to do some organizing in my sewing room. It is so full of projects! I might need to let go of some stuff in the sewing room during the organization process. That is something hard to do.
Church was sad today. Our preacher read his resignation letter. He and his wife are moving to Florida in July. We will miss them. I am sure they are going where they are needed, for that I am thrilled for them. We wish them well! We went to a church dinner and met new people and got to reconnect with others. Good food, friendship, and fun.
I finished the cutest pink windmill quilt for the store. I have also been working on some burp rags for Trina and Burpees for Janet. I also got started on another t-shirt quilt for Jane. I actually have quite a few more sewing projects in the works. I also finished up a box to hold shot glasses for Kevin and Nicole. Lots of projects to do and finish! Oh how I love summer when I have so much time to not finish anything! Agh! I would like to do some organizing in my sewing room. It is so full of projects! I might need to let go of some stuff in the sewing room during the organization process. That is something hard to do.
Church was sad today. Our preacher read his resignation letter. He and his wife are moving to Florida in July. We will miss them. I am sure they are going where they are needed, for that I am thrilled for them. We wish them well! We went to a church dinner and met new people and got to reconnect with others. Good food, friendship, and fun.
Friday, June 3, 2011
New Clothes
We had our 17th wedding anniversary earlier on the first of June. By far the most enjoyable years of my life. He is my rock, he makes all things possible, and everything is better with him. He makes me a better me.
The first time in a week I went and worked out today. I got on the machine from hell for a whole ten minutes! It is NOT going to beat me. I slowed down some so I didn't feel like my heart would jump out of my body. I also did the bicycle for your arms machine and put it on the strength setting. It was hard to do and I wanted to quit, but I stayed on it for ten minutes! Then I went to the bicycle and went for 35 minutes. Then I called it a day. I am still working out in my street clothes (please don't tell my daughters). Since, I have been consistent and this is going to be a regular part of my life (maybe not my favorite part, but a necessary part) I decided to spring for a workout outfit. Shock. Do I go to an athletic store, of course not (I am not getting that carried away)I go to wallyworld. 3 choices. #1 is short shorts, #2 is spandex longer shorts, and #3 is lightweight sweat short Capri pants. I couldn't decide the lesser evil between #'s 1& 2, so I went with #3. then I got a tank top to go with it. The pants are black and the shirt is purple.
More good news! Ken got the brake line fixed on the van last night. I can come and go. Yeah! I am glad we weren't out on the road and had car trouble. All things happen for a reason.
Last night Ken got stung by something and today I got stung by a red wasp. I took some Benedryl right away. My shoulder got red and hot and there was a little swelling. Like Ken's mine seems to be okay now.
I got eight things checked off my list yesterday. The two remaining items are on today's list of ten! Hope to do as well or better than I did yesterday. Time will tell!
The first time in a week I went and worked out today. I got on the machine from hell for a whole ten minutes! It is NOT going to beat me. I slowed down some so I didn't feel like my heart would jump out of my body. I also did the bicycle for your arms machine and put it on the strength setting. It was hard to do and I wanted to quit, but I stayed on it for ten minutes! Then I went to the bicycle and went for 35 minutes. Then I called it a day. I am still working out in my street clothes (please don't tell my daughters). Since, I have been consistent and this is going to be a regular part of my life (maybe not my favorite part, but a necessary part) I decided to spring for a workout outfit. Shock. Do I go to an athletic store, of course not (I am not getting that carried away)I go to wallyworld. 3 choices. #1 is short shorts, #2 is spandex longer shorts, and #3 is lightweight sweat short Capri pants. I couldn't decide the lesser evil between #'s 1& 2, so I went with #3. then I got a tank top to go with it. The pants are black and the shirt is purple.
More good news! Ken got the brake line fixed on the van last night. I can come and go. Yeah! I am glad we weren't out on the road and had car trouble. All things happen for a reason.
Last night Ken got stung by something and today I got stung by a red wasp. I took some Benedryl right away. My shoulder got red and hot and there was a little swelling. Like Ken's mine seems to be okay now.
I got eight things checked off my list yesterday. The two remaining items are on today's list of ten! Hope to do as well or better than I did yesterday. Time will tell!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Ken and I have spent some nice days together. We wanted to go away, but brake line problems prevented us from getting away. We spent time playing around doing ordinary things, but we did the mundane together, which made them more fun. We have been to the movies several times, done errands, stayed up late, and been carefree. Ken had to go back to work today and I have to get my time under control so I don't waste the summer away. So, I made a list of ten things I thought I could accomplish. So far, I have 3 checked off my list and a couple of others partially done. I do a little on one task and so easily get side tracked to another and it goes on and on.
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| See how curly it is! |
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| Lots of gray! |
This is a new color for me. I think I will let it grow all summer and then decide what I will do about the style and color. Of course, I am assuming it will be long enough to style. The thought of using a product on my hair just scares the peewaddlen out of me!
I was working on a quilt top when I sliced my finger on my rotary cutter. Then, of course, I bled on one of the quilt squares. Rats! I went and cleaned it and I think I got the blood out. So now I am waiting for it to dry. Finishing the quilt top is one of my ten things on the list. I am spending a lot of time with dog out and dog in also. Things are waiting on my list.
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