Tim leaves for band camp

Tim has packed his bag and is ready for band camp. Have to get him to school at noon time for his week long trip.

Just had a nice phone call from Mel and Lucinda F. as they are headed to Cleveland for the Browns' training and to see Mel Jr. They will be there for a few weeks. Hard to believe that pre-season football is just a few weeks away. Maybe Tim and I will go see some of this activity.

Drove Tim to the school at 12:30 p.m. He didn't want me to stick around so I left. Must admit that I shed a couple of tears as I drove away. Just don't tell him. I went to WalMart for some things. Drove back up to the school and all the buses were still there at 1:30 p.m. (expected time to leave). I could see the pile of trash bags which held everyone's sleeping bags and pillows. There were a lot of cars. But since Tim did not want me to stay, I silently drove away. Once again, don't tell him. I only asked that he call me at least once while he's gone. He just laughed at that!

Angels continued last week to bring us delicious food. Thanks to Jen, Sally, Becky AKA June, Michelle and my boss Michelle. Words can not express the gratitude we have for this gesture of love.

Thought of another name for my new "hair". Chia hair, like the commercials at Christmas.

Tim had only 1 song left to memorize while away. Had it been me, I could never have memorized even one song.

Bird feathers for hair

My hair is beginning to grow. And as one person once told me, it starts off looking like a baby bird feathers. Very light colored/white. But it's hair and it will be colored as soon as it's long enough!

Ditto on last night's so called sleep effort. ...... Every hour at least I was up.
I'm a pretty easy going person but I do enjoy my sleep.

Drove my scooter to post office but on way home it was conking out on me when I came to a stop. So Barry worked on it most of the day. No solution yet. Was going to bring it to a Honda dealer but they are backed up for over a month. So Barry will continue to work on it, or perhaps bring to another dealer. Need to get it working for a possible visitor end of August!

I cut the lawn today and ended up washing/vacuuming my truck later in day.

Tim leaves in morning for band camp. I surely will miss him. He's a lot of company.
And when they return on Friday, the band gives the town a show which is called "Meet the Band Night." No, not meet the Forkers..

What's sleep?

I take back what I said last night about being able to sleep better. Last night proved that to be wrong. I think I was up every 30 mins/to an hr. with the night sweats. Perhaps the second pill is wiping out the good sleep effect that I had for a few days. Oh well... It makes for a long and tiring night, and now for a long and tiring day. And it's so strange how I wake up right before the sweats pour off of my bald head. The body works in mysterious ways.

Off to work soon. It's a good day since we're being allowed to wear jeans today. For some reason I work better in jeans. And since we never see any outside customers I've never understood the need to dress up.

In the morning I took one of the new sudafed pills. And within a couple of hours I could feel my head getting so light headed. Strong stuff. And when it came time to take the first pill I was given, I made a decision not to take it. Don't think I could have handled both of them even though I was told I could.

I came home from work and layed down for about 45 minutes. And then we had some hot dogs on the grill for a light dinner. A friend of ours, Michelle stopped by. She and her family will be moving out of state within a couple of weeks. She was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. So it was a chance to wish each other well.

Tim continues to practice his flute for next week's band camp. He only has one more song to master and then he would have memorized 12 songs. More than I could ever do.

A tiring week so I'm about to sign off.

Since my cough didn't seem to be getting any better, I saw the Nurse Practitioner in the morning. She also sent me for chest x-ray to be on the safe side. Lungs appeared to be OK. Gave me another prescription, this one with sudafed. So will see how that does. Very tiring when you cough so much. And you know me, once I get going I am easily choking. Unfortunately the local drug store didn't have this prescription so am heading back to town I work in. If only I had known..

Tim has a band practice tonight. He went to have his physical for soccer at the school. Was there for over two hours. Started later than it was supposed to.

And internet: Adelphia was here today. Did some things with line and it seems to be OK for now. We have a supervisor's name and number to call if it should go down.
Fingers are crossed.

11 p.m. and still online. But time for me to head to bed. Have taken the new med for cough and feel like I'm going to sleep good tonight. Quite relaxed with both meds. Cough does seem better. If anything, the night sweats are less with the codeine ( unsure of spelling) pill I was taking. At least I don't cough at night.

Night.

Internet continues to be down

Adelphia is so bad.

Am so disappointed since I haven't been able to post.

Last night Tim had band camp meeting. His teacher made comment to him: I didn't know your mother shaved her head. He replied: no she had cancer! He's a good kid.
Imagine if both Barry and I had gone to meeting. It was on our way home that Tim said this to me. He had thought of a funny reply to the teacher: you know mothers, they like to do strange things like shave their heads!

So next week Tim will be gone all week for Band camp. House will certainly be quiet.

I continue to have annoying cough since I saw the dr. last Friday. Still taking cough pills, hasn't been a week yet. And night sweats also continue. But I must say that I'm not waking up as often. Could be due to the narcotic cough pills. Who knows.

Internet's been down

Sorry I haven't blogged. But internet's been down.

Yesterday, church and rest were on my agenda. Nothing much happening. Tim did go to town pool for some afternoon fun.

Today is a hot one. But for most of the day I'm in air conditioning anyway. Tim's gone to another conditioning practice for school soccer. Nice hot one. Before you know it, school is back in session.

Nothing really exciting happening right now. (which is good) For this moment, internet is up and running.

A beautiful day

And for the first time since Mother's Day I rode my scooter. Got all fresh veggies from Amish buddies. Fresh corn which was so good. Doesn't even need butter or salt. Called extasy. Short blog for now. Have to enjoy the weather.

Yesterday I went to see Dr. Garrow as I started to have a cough. At times when I was at work yesterday, it would get so bad that I couldn't stop coughing. Had just started the day before. And I don't mess around with my health, especially since both of us are still under chemo drugs. They are so good at the Cancer Center, always fit you in. Dr. Garrow prescribed an antibiotic and a cough pill with some kind of narcotic in it. Have felt better today. We also discussed the night sweats. He said that if men went through menopause, the species would not exist anymore! He did prescribe an antidepressant for the night sweats which I will start after I get rid of the cough. The soy milk was not helping me at all. At first I thought negative about taking an antidepressant but after further thoughts have said why not. Menopause in itself can cause mood swings, and with everything going on in our lives perhaps it's worth trying.

Tim went for 2 hr. bike ride with his buddy Josh today. I'm so glad that he enjoys riding his bike and being outdoors. I had a slight headache and just rested while he was gone. Josh will be sleeping over tonight. He hasn't had a sleepover in quite awhile. Oh one more thing. I cooked a nice ratatouille (unsure of spelling) with sausage and all kinds of fresh vegetables that I bought today. Boy was that tasty.

We'll be going to church first thing in the a.m. I didn't go last week since I was not feeling well. Barry's just starting to feel the effects of his neulasta shot from yesterday. First thing that hurts is bottom of his feet. Has been relaxing and watching TV this p.m.

Night sweats suck

That's it. Night sweats suck. Actually here typing this blog and I'm soaked on my head. Not fun at all. Off to buy mini fan at Walmart for my bedside.

As for Barry, he didn't really sleep last night. Effects of chemo/steroids working once again. Long night for us.

Barry's test results

Barry was scheduled for chemo tomorrow. His usual treatment day of the week was Thursday. But with the scans done this week it was pushed back one day. Early this morning he got call from Cancer Center for him to go in today for chemo. The test results showed no change in size of the tumor. The doctor told him that this is OK, that there can be a delay in the tumor being reduced. And that since it is not any larger, that's good. He will be going for an additional 3 chemo cycles and then have the scans repeated. We had hoped for a reduction in the size but have to stay focused on the future and on the doctor's words.

He was at treatment all day as usual. Got home after 5 p.m. He's a tough guy to go through such a long treatment. And the weekend is no party either.

I brought him lunch and was able to eat with him. I had planned to go with him tomorrow but.... things changed.

This evening we did what we like to do a lot. Went to Dutch Isle for some ice cream. A nice treat after a tiring day. Tim had his first soccer conditioning meet this evening. Getting ready for the pros..

A calmer day

A calmer day at work today. Went in hour late since I woke up with headache. After buying more excedrin! And I actually took a lunch... Am no longer going to sacrifice lunch. I'm #1, not the company. Just will need to remind myself next time.. I was also treated to blueberry cheesecake by the dept. today since I had my last chemo. A nice touch.

Went out to dinner after work. That was nice. Barry had his scans today. Was home by the time I was leaving for work. Results will be known this Friday when he sees Dr. Garrow. I can't celebrate me not having chemo until he is better. I have heard good stories of tumors being reduced by chemo, so I keep those dear to my heart.

A day from you know what

Today was a day from you know what at work. I can not say a good word about the hours spent there. A computer virus hit many pc's at the bank, which created havoc. Not even given a lunch break, just food to eat at your desk. And then it was basically decided for dept. to stay after 5 p.m. I did not. I did take my lunch and sit in my bathroom lounge chair for a few moments. My brain was getting fried. And by 3:30 p.m. I had to take my pillow to lay down in that same lounge chair. Mentally fried. It hasn't even been a week since my last chemo, and this is not what the doctor prescribed. A headache that wouldn't go away, very much like a migraine. I had to call my friend in another dept. and she rounded up some excedrin for me. Thanks Chrys. And while I was resting, not one person even came looking for me. So, when 5 p.m. came around, I was in no shape to put in another second on this job. I was out of there. Came home and crashed.

At 9 p.m., I still have headache. Hopefully it will go away. Think it's stress related (no kidding) due to my neck also hurting.

No more blog tonight. Want to lie down again. Off at 9 p.m.

If tomorrow is like today, I will not make it a full day.

Barry and Tim return today

Am looking forward to seeing Barry and Tim this afternoon. Should be leaving by 7 a.m. for their trip home. Can't wait to see them. I'm all set for work, thinking of getting Dunkin Donut treat on way to work.
Barry and Tim arrived home at 8 p.m. after 12 hr. road trip. Am so glad they are safe and sound.

Sunday

Not much to report today, besides good ole internet being down most of the day. Very annoying.

Didn't do much today since my body and head ached most of the day. Just stayed in my "bat cave" as Barry would say. Went to Dutch Isle for a burger and fries, and Chinese buffet for dinner. Was very disappointed in the buffet. Had been looking forward to the butter shrimp, but they've changed the recipe. Not good in my opinion. After I left there, I felt that it was a waste of money. I did comment to the people there about it. Said they had new cook. Oh well... May not have been my day.

The boys return tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing them. It's been a long weekend for me.

Saturday. Another neulasta kind of day

Well, for now the internet is up. Was down a bit earlier. Not reliable at all. And this blog is so much of my life. Am lost without it.

Did drink some soy milk before bed, still up many times with night sweats. Am sure it will take more than one drink to get it working. Will keep trying. It doesn't taste bad which is good.

Not sure what is planned for today yet. Just taking it easy. Am feeling slight headache right now. But will continue to pamper it.

By noon I could feel the good old effects of neulasta starting to work. Yuck. But at least it's the last weekend for it. Had a little something to eat and got under the covers. Stayed in bed until about 5 p.m. Never did really sleep, just tossed and turned. Headache is back, body aches also. The skin is sore just to touch.

The only thing I did outside today was to go to Dutch Isle for an ice cream cone. Sure did miss my buddy Tim, as he usually goes with me. Just sat in their parking lot and enjoyed the cone. No other customers were there. Came home and had some easy mac, corn on the cob heated up and soy milk. What a dinner. Did taste good.
Took a bath also.

Have spoken to Barry and Tim a couple of times today. Tomorrow is their last day on the Cape. They rode their bikes on the canal again today. It was hot there but there was also a nice breeze from the canal. Just like my vacation, the time seemed to have gone so fast. At least they had good weather. They will be leaving very early Monday a.m. for their long trip back home. Am looking forward to seeing them. I must admit that I've missed them.

Tomorrow they will be going to church with the family and then out to breakfast. Am not sure what else they have planned yet.

Two of my angel nurses after chemo. A special breed of nurse. 

The final OFF button, chemo is complete! 

And of course, matching earrings. 

Good luck socks that Maureen lent me. 

Close my eyes and go somewhere else. 

This is adriamycin, a chemo drug, that has to be syringed very slowly into my IV. Koolaid looking. Makes me sick to look at it, have to go elsewhere in my thoughts.  

It took 5 attempts to get a correct working IV. Not a good day for me. You must have an IV that gives a blood return when dealing with the chemo drug adriamycin. You can't fool with the veins. Thank goodness it wasn't my first treatment. 

This HOPE charm was given to me by another breast cancer survivor. I took this to all my treatments and with me to Barry's treatments. Thank you Linda. 

Taking my anti nausea drug, kytrol. This is the med that causes me to have headaches. 

I'm all set for my last treatment. 

Dr. Garrow and me for my last chemo treatment, 7-14-05. 

The day after, a day to rest

My internet is DOWN completely. So thank goodness for a neighbor who has allowed me to use her PC. Would never want anyone to worry about me in not posting.

Wish I could report that I slept soundly but I can't. Night sweats continue to be bad. Every 1 1/2-2 hrs. I am awoken by them. Going to buy some soy mild today since Dr. Garrow recommended it at bedtime. Will try anything.

Slight headache as expected. Off to get neulasta shot and something to eat. And then I think my bed will be calling me.

Cable may take up to a week to get fixed so don't worry if I'm not online. I'm here in spirit.

Thanks Diane for use of your computer...

Am glad to report, that for this moment, my cable is up and running. A miracle. I won't hold my breath.

Today was busy day for me. I didn't work as is usual for the day after chemo. Slight headache, keeping it in control with excedrin. Don't want it to get out of control. I picked up some corn, peaches and tomatoes from road stand. I went to cancer center and got my procrit shot and neulasta shot. I then went to grocery store to pick up some fruit and some soy milk to take at bed time. I've said this before and I will now repeat myself. You meet the nicest people in grocery stores. While shopping, a woman came up to me and said some kind words. Not even sure what they were exactly, something about looking good. I thanked her and as I did, she lifted up her ball cap and revealed a wig covering a bald head. She introduced herself to me. The name clicked in my memory bank. Awhile ago, someone told me that the owner of this grocery store I was in was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. And this woman was her, Aileen. I gave her one of my hand made calling cards showing my blog address. And as you can see, not only is she an angel, she is an angel who reads and comments on blogs!! Again, any other time we would have never had a conversation. Bad things can become good things, friendship.
And I thank her for being there today when I needed a friend.

After shopping, I picked up a takeout order at restaurant which will be lunch/dinner. I had to go to hospital to pick up pre-meds for Barry's CT scans next week. This test is scheduled for next Wednesday. Please pray for smaller tumor or even no tumor. Only after he is better will I be totally better! Eventually did lie down for awhile. Never actually slept but had rest time anyway. Sort of nice being home by myself, not to answer to anyone. No trash compactor opening closing, no phones ringing. I have talked to Barry and Tim today. They bought bikes while on the Cape. Barry got a used one at bike shop and Tim got himself a new one. Tim really needed one. At times he rides about 10 miles around here by himself. You don't see many kids out there riding bikes, but he does.
And now I'm sure they will be enjoying the canal bike path this weekend with their bikes. With everything we've been through, any expense is worth it. No need to justify.

This weekend my aches will be returning, but this will be the last weekend for them. Hurrah.

I made it to the FINISH LINE!!!

Wow. Never thought I would say that. But the chemo is done for me.

My internet was down for past day or so, and I was lost without it. But now it's up and running (for how long is another question.)

I was sitting on front steps waiting for Jody to pick me up at 9:15 a.m. It was about 9 a.m. when I was going over my notebook that I take with me to the appointments. Came upon a page that made me panic. It was about the meds that I would be taking. And the word EMEND popped out in front of me. This is the drug I take the day of chemo, and the following 2 days. I had totally forgot to get that prescription filled! For once I was not thinking chemo. Talk about panic. I went into house and immediately called the drug store. Am thankful the pharmacist knows me (frequent shopper there). She said come right down for it. Hopped in car, got the pills and raced home. Ran in the house for something to take the pill with and Jody then arrived. I couldn't believe that I had forgotten the pills. Not a good way to start the day.

I met with Dr. Garrow to review all my test results (which were good). I asked him about the night sweats (I wake up every 90 mins-2 hrs. sweating on my head very bad). Menopausal symptoms, increased due to chemo. May subside after chemo is done. We will monitor that. Suggested soy milk at bed time to start with before any prescription for me. Next week I will start once again with procrit shots for awhile since chemo is back in my system. I found out from Dr. Garrow that the neulasta shot we get the day after chemo for white blood cells cost $5,000 per shot!!! Wow. Jody took lots of pictures of me during my day meeting with the doctor and receiving the drugs. It took FIVE tries to get my IV properly inserted into vein. This was extremely intense. They must get a return blood flow once IV is inserted before the adriamycin drug is administered. Otherwise, it can't be injected into the IV. Three different nurses all had difficulty today. More stress that I didn't need today. I am so glad and thankful that Jody was with me. A true friend. She went through this 5 1/2 years ago and knows what it is all about.

After the chemo (I think it was about 2 p.m.) Jody treated me to lunch at one of my favorites restaurant. On the way home, I just put the seat back and rested my eyes. She didn't expect any conversation from me, again she knew what I was going through. I had wanted to put my jammies on right away but the phone rang. It was Adelphia wanting to come to house to check cable earlier than the original 5-7 p.m. tonight slot. I said OK and they arrived at about 4 p.m. They got the cable up and running after doing some things to the pole outside.

Got my jammies on and hit the bed. Wasn't able to fall asleep since I (here I go giving all my personal information out) had stomach ache and eventual diarrhea. Just not my day.

Have heard from my sister recently. As she and Jody say, it's done and in my system. Something to cheer about. It's just a very emotional, exhausting time. So many emotions. Thank goodness I went to the Cape to get energized before today.

Probably won't post any more today. Even though I am drained, I needed to post my inner thoughts to you. Please, if you read my journal at all, PLEASE post a simple comment today to pick my spirits up high. It's very easy to do and will mean the world to me. Don't just be a voyeur.

Again, Thanks Jody and all my angels.

Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's off to work I go

Blood test today. Chemo tomorrow.

My internet connection's been down a lot. So you may not see another update today.

7/10/05. Tim may not catch any fish but he's having a good time trying. Right on the rocks of the Cape Cod Canal. 

7/10/05. The boys: Barry, his brother Matt and my brother Doug. Our camper is in the background. 

7/10/05. My niece Stephanie with her pooch Gypsy. 

7/10/05. Mom, Maureen, Me, Tim and Tommy are enjoying the scenic view of the Cape Cod Canal. A great place to bike or to fish from. 

7/9/05. My parents, along with Barry's family. Can you pick us out of this picture? 

7/9/05. Can you smell the ocean? You see, you can go back after all those years. 

7/9/05 Even after 40 years, Mary Lou and I continue to be best friends. She's been so supportive to me these past few months.  

7/9/05 My sister Maureen along with my mother as we are nearing Nantucket Island. What a good looking group of ladies! 

7/7/05. We went to see the Edwards Twins perform at the Sheraton. This is one of the twins, along with our great table guests. 

My mother is about to walk Bud, but I wanted a photo opportunity. 

What a great vacation!

I arrived home a little past noon. Everything went smoothly. As the title says, What a great vacation!

It's hard to remember what happened the past couple of days. One way of summing it up is what my sister said: Family is everything!

We went to Nantucket on 7/9/05 and Barry and Tim arrived on this day. My parents drove me out to Barry's folks house to see the Kaminskes all together. It was great seeing everyone. Even Barry's only brother Matt and his son Tommy were there for a few days. In fact, we ended up having Tommy spend couple of days with us at the campground. Good chance for the cousins to play together. After our visit, we had dinner at the Seafood Shanty overlooking the Cape Cod Canal (where we camped).

7/10/05 Maureen drove my parents over to the visit us at the campground. Got to see Doug and Stephanie, along with their pooch. Matt also joined us for the afternoon. I had reserved a campsite for them right beside us. Doug has a 38' motorhome. Gorgeous. Since Doug has his own restaurant and is a chef, he prepared us a gourmet dinner which included chicken, ribs and sirloin tips. Maureen provided a blueberry cobbler dessert. The campsite is a stone's throw from the beautiful Cape Cod Canal. After dinner, Doug prepared a couple of fishing poles for Tim and Tommy to use on the canal. They never did catch any fish!

7/11/05 Barry, Tim, Tommy and I went to visit my father. Tim and Tommy ended up going to the beach with Maureen and my mother. They didn't have bathing suits, just shorts. They had a blast. It was such a hot day. They said the ocean was "refreshing." While they were gone, Barry worked on my father's computer. At lunch we dined overlooking the harbor and the boats taking off for the islands. We then returned to the campground. Barry's family visited us for dinner. Matt had cooked ribs in slow cooker all day. I provided the famous Grandma's Pie Shop pie which was banana split cream pie. Mmmmmmm.

7/12/05 My father picked me up at 6:30 a.m. for Providence airport. I got there early but that was OK. Better to be early than late. The flight was very smooth.
Did shed a tear or two but quickly remembered all the laughs and good times I had just enjoyed. What a great vacation. A vacation that I greatly needed. Now it's Barry and Tim's turn to enjoy their vacation on Cape Cod. I have heard from them this afternoon. They were visiting the rest of the Kaminske family today. I had not been able to see Matt's wife Wendy and 3 of their children due to my flight.

I have attempted to remember everything. But you know how my mind is.....

Back to work tomorrow. And just in time for blood work for my LAST CHEMO on Thursday. Jody is taking me to my appt. and then treating me for lunch in celebration. She's also a survivor.

Again, FAMILY IS EVERYTHING.

7/6/05 My sister Eileen and my niece Tina, with her son Jamie. What a smile! 

Nantucket Island and Mary Lou

Maureen, Mom and I got the 6:30 a.m. high speed ferry to Nantucket Island. In one hour, we were on the island. Mary Lou, a girl friend of mine for over 40 years met us at the boat and took us for a tour of the WHOLE island. You couldn't have asked for a better tour guide. We saw every memory that we had, even took pictures of our old house that we sold in 1965 when my brother Doug was born. We talked to a man on the porch who said that his parents bought the house in 1965. Probably the people my parents sold house to.

So much to write about, more to follow.

Barry and Tim arrived on the Cape at about 9 a.m. 12 hr. ride for them.

The next couple of days I won't be posting. Will be spending time with the family and that's what I came to do. I only have Sunday and Monday left...

Great seeing everyone.

Friday on Cape Cod/See Doug and family today

I had so many dreams last night. So much "input" yesterday into my brain. It was such a great show last night that it was on my brain as I lay in bed.

Looking forward to seeing my brother and his family today.

Barry and Tim leave to come here sometime late this evening into the early morning of Saturday. Not sure yet. Am hoping they avoid any rain/bad weather from a storm in the area. They have a long trip ahead of them, not like the 1 hour or so plane ride I had.

Shortly after we returned from grocery shopping, Doug and his family arrived in their 38' motor home. They had been vacationing on the Cape this week. I had not seen my sister-in-law and niece for over a year. Last year I had seen Doug when I was on the Cape. Been too long. Doug, since he's a chef and owner of a restaurant, cooked us up a feast on Dad's new grill. Sirloin tips, burger, ribs and chicken. Even on his days offs he enjoys cooking. Have never had a bad meal.

And then Roger arrived later in the afternoon. He's my brother-in-law, married to Eileen. Never a dull moment with him in the house. A lot of fun to be with.

While everyone napped during the afternoon, Mom and I snuck off for some ice cream. I think I was only one who didn't nap today. Didn't want to waste any time sleeping.

The last of the family arrived a short while ago, Gene. He's married to my other sister Maureen. I can't even remember the last time I saw him. So right now we have a full house (almost). Barry and Tim will be leaving any moment from Pennsylvania to come here. About a 12 hr. trip for them. I will be relaxed once they are here. It's a long trip for one person to be driving the whole way.

Signing off for the day. Tomorrow a.m., bright and early, Maureen, mom and I are taking ferry to Nantucket to see Mary Lou. Won't be online much tomorrow. Too much excitement. And then we will be seeing Barry at the campground.

Fresh Cape Cod Air.....

Well, the different state did not cause the night sweats to disappear. Could only wish.

But here I am on Cape Cod. Ready to enjoy my first full day. My sister Maureen will be arriving by noon. Can't wait to see her. Have nothing planned to do (as far as I know). A cool overcast day with temps in 50s. Not going to get any better I guess.

Mom and I went to the Mall and I finally bought a pair of hoop earrings. We're such good shoppers, we got out of the mall within an hour. I also was ready for my next Cape Cod meal.

By the time we got home, Maureen had arrived. Went out to another seafood restaurant, Cook's, and once again had fried shrimp. I think I'm going to turn into a shrimp. Can't get this kind of food in Western Pennsylvania. Delicious. We took Mom to get a haircut and while Moe was inside with her, I noticed a nice looking man heading in there. I was outside waiting. I said to him "if you go in there, you'll come out looking like me." He didn't laugh like I expected, but looked serious. When he entered the store, he made comment to my family questioning if in fact the store had shaved my head. Mom said no, that I was going through chemo. Also, said that Barry was going through same treatment. He then turned and looked out the window at me and laughed. Boy, when Mom and Maureen came out we had such a belly laugh! Felt so good to laugh. I also had a woman from the store take our picture standing outside the sign saying ProCuts. You have to make the most out of life!
Would have made a good segment for Girls Behiving Badly or Candid Camera.

Mom, Maureen and I are heading to a show of some kind at the Sheraton Hotel tonight. It's male twins/ Edwards Twins/ who impersonate singers both male and female. Looking forward to that. By the way their website is www.theedwardstwins.com if you want to read about them. (I'm not getting paid to tell you this!)

At the show, two sisters (one from Florida and the other from Ct.) and their parents from Hyannis sat with us. You couldn't ask for better company. I think the sisters were in their 40s, so basically same age group as us. The show was wonderful. I can't even remember all the celebities we saw perform: Cher, Elton John, Sonny Bono, Neil Diamond, Bette Midler and Barbra Streisand. They performed every detail to the point while you were watching them perform, it was the actual singer, including Barbra's hand motions to her hair and Elton's facial expressions. For 90 minutes I was elsewhere and chemo free. It was a good group to sit with and be with, clapping and enjoying the show. They do not lip sync, they actually do the voice impersonations. Truly amazing. It was Maureen's idea to get out and I'm so glad she had this idea.

After the show, I took pictures of one of the twins along with our table of friends. (Pictures of my vacation will follow when I return home to download them).
I told this man my personal story and that I was truly touched by their performances. He in return gave me a special hug. I handed him and the people I sat with a small personalized card that I created showing my blog address. I love to share my/our story with others who touch my heart. It's truly amazing how people come into your life and make it that more memorable.

Tomorrow my brother Doug will be seeing us, along with his wife Brenda and daughter Stephanie. Looking forward to seeing them. It's been more than a year since I saw him. It's time....

Leaving on a jet plane

Just about to leave house. See you soon.

Very foggy trip to airport. Plane was on schedule. Everything worked out fine. I did wear the surgical mask on the plane. I figured that I now have something in common with Michael Jackson, we both wear masks in public! It was a small lear type jet, only 18 rows and I was seated in the 17th row by myself.

Eileen was at the gate to pick me up. What a treat to get a hug in person. Then we went to see my niece and her son at their new home. It had been awhile since I had seen them. It was great seeing them.

We then headed to the Cape. What a treat to go over the Bourne Bridge. Got to see the campground that we will be staying at beneath the bridge.

When we arrived at my parent's house, they were outside with camera waiting to take their first picture of me. Great moment to see and be with them. We then went out for SEAFOOD at my favorite restaurant Golden Boy. Had fried shrimp. What a treat. Life is good. Then Mom, Eileen and I went downtown to walk the main street area. Lots of tourists, but I didn't see any other females bald. I was a unique person there.

Have already done so much today in such a short time. Only thing I didn't do was take a nap. No time for that.

Dinner was at another favorite Bobby Byrne's. So much food that I had no room for Par tee Freeze icecream. That will have to wait until tomorrow.

As we were coming into the house the phone was ringing. Don and Bonnie from Phoenix (previously my parent's backdoor neighbors) called to say hi. That was another treat in a treat filled day. I think I made Bonnie jealous or at least made her think of Old Cape Cod.

Am wondering if different environment will change the way I sleep. Usually I have night sweats (Barry also) and wake up with soaked head. Time will tell. A long but great day on the Cape.

It's almost time

All I have to say right now is "night sweats" are the pits. Thought it was my hormones, but Barry has same problem. Wake up with head and pillow wet. Maybe good ole' Cape Cod air will fix that problem!

Off to work my last 8 hrs. before my vacation. See you later.

Done. Ready for vacation. And I can truly say that I need this vacation!

Just a couple of last minute organizing to do and I'm all set. Have already printed boarding pass so that will save time at airport.

Won't be on my blog in a.m. as I'm heading out the door very early.

As my sister says, ADIOS AMICOS.

Happy 4th of July

Woke up again early this a.m. with a wicked headache. Took some excedrin and sudafed just to cover all bases. Within 45 minutes the headache was gone. Both of us keep having "night" sweats. Wake up with our heads all wet along with pillows. Looking forward to a good night's sleep without any wakeups.

Ben slept over last night. The kids had a great time at the fireworks. Then they came home and had their own celebration in back yard. More to come this evening.

I work tomorrow and then I'm off to Cape Cod on Wednesday. I will continue to blog and have access to my email. Usually I'll be at someone's house with a computer. May be a day or so I won't blog. But then I will catch everyone up on my activities.

Barry's aches are continuing longer than the past cycles. Spent some time in bed today. Had an afternoon treat of Dutch Isle. I cooked some chicken on the grill for dinner.

Our evening was very nice. The boys did a fireworks display again. Tim had faith that Barry would participate and it happened.

Sunday. A great week to follow

We went to church this a.m. and sat with Michele. It was perfect timing as we arrived the same time as her. It was nice sitting with her. She did recommend that I wear a surgical mask on the plane due to the usual germs associated with flying. I will check with the Cancer Center on Tuesday when I go for my procrit shot. Good idea. Had it not been for cancer, I would never have met her. She's quite a special lady. After church she took the time to show me how to put on a real scarf, rather than just my usual bandana. When I got home I tried it myself and it worked!

Made breakfast for Barry. And since it was another beautiful day outside, I layed down on lounge chair for awhile. Eventually we went over to Ohio for some shopping. Got Tim some new soccer cleats for school. And of course the best part was eating out at a restaurant. Barry was still achy but he's more of a trouper than I am, he pushed himself to get out and do something. I'm the hibernating type of person when I don't feel good. He didn't sleep well last night. Did rest some after we got back from shopping.

Tim got invited to go see local fireworks with Karyann. This worked out perfectly. I found out today that bugs like bald heads. Kept having them land on me while I was outside. And it looks like my pimples could be returning at the same time of my last cycle. But I have cream still to use.

I think you look awesome!

Woke up during the night with another bad headache. Took some excedrin and went back to bed. My arm was so sore yesterday, even with sling. The day before was easier because all I did was sit in chair with Barry. This weekend I'm really going to pamper it.

Barry did finally sleep last night. For about 6 hrs. And then just layed in bed.

Today it's such a beautiful day. Humidity is much lower along with temps. Have been loading a few things into trailer for next week's vacation. Next week we will all be on Cape Cod.

Tim finally went golfing for his first time today. He went with the Hoppes and had such a great time. Had been wanting to golf for quite awhile since taking lessons couple of years ago. Now he's hooked and hopefully this will turn into a more routine event. Came back with such a great smile on his face.

I also had a pretty good day. The best part of the day was while shopping at local grocery store. For some reason, that's where I seem to get the nicest comments. A woman perhaps in her 30s came up to me today and simply said "I think you look awesome!". I can't remember exactly what I said, something like it wasn't my chosing and that you have to be comfortable in your own skin. And there was an understanding without any more words. Heck, even when I had hair no one ever had said those words to me. What can I say, nice people out in this world when you need them.

I took a nap while Tim golfed since my arm has been quite sore. It did help some. Will take awhile for the discomfort to subside. And praying that I don't have same problem on the other arm.

Tim's outside lighting off some firecrackers now. We went out last night at about 11 p.m. to buy some for the 4th. Barry's been non stop most of the day. He doesn't give in the aches like I do. He's much stronger than I.

Looking forward to church tomorrow as I'm going to look for Michele who I spoke to last night. And maybe we'll sit with she and her family.

A Long Weekend and Finally a Holiday to Enjoy

Forgot to mention that Barry was able to sleep some yesterday. I'm his magic sleeping pill! Was glad to hear a few snores here and there. Went out at lunch and brought back panera for him.

It's Friday and it's been a long week. Am even taking a pillow to work to rest during lunch in a 2 seater chair that has been put in foyer leading to bathroom. You see, angels work silently at work too. Red, white and blue day at work so am going to wear my new Angels walk among us shirt from American Cancer Society.

Barry went to bed at about 4:30 a.m. only to just lay there. As I said, drugs.

I telephoned Michele R. during my lunch today. She got good news from her surgery on Tuesday. Clear margin on tumor that was removed and lymph nodes are negative! I gave her Dr. Garrow's phone number to conect with for oncologist. Again, good news for her.

During lunch I took my pillow and rested on my new chair. Felt so good and relaxin to do so. Even bought a new travel size pillow to keep in my desk for future use. Going to bring in some oil to fix the squeaking noise in door leading to room. That was a bit annoying. Wonder what people thought as they saw me resting. Probably wanting to nap with me!

This evening I finally connected with Michele W. from the next town. She goes to our church and I met her at a relay walk awhile ago. I talked with her as if I had known her for a long time. Very nice person to talk to. Only 33 years old and has just finished her 6 session of chemo. Radiation will follow. She's going to teach me how to do scarves after church this week. She always looks so nice. Another angel, what can I say.