Wednesday, August 31, 2005

Radiation/Day 13

Internet was down last night. Boy did I feel lost without it.

Found out today at work that someone in my department is moving to another department. His name is Matt and for all those busy days at work, he was the other person usually answering the calls with me. I will truly miss him as he is one of the "good guys." I'm happy for him, sad for me. And I realize that management probably doesn't even realize that this is a loss to the department. Oh well. He's going to be working with a friend of mine called Leya (she left our dept. end of last year). Funny how things work out.

When I got home from picking Tim up from soccer, I found an aloe plant on my doorstep. There was no note. I was so pleased to get such a thoughtful gift. I could not figure out who left it there. A short while ago, my neighbor Eleanor B. called to tell me that she had left the plant for me. Just another angel in my life! I had spoken to her over the weekend and told her that Aileen had given me some aloe pieces and that I was using them. Just another kind gesture. Thanks.


Barry goes for his 6th chemo treatment tomorrow. I won't be going with him, but plan to visit with him after my 3 p.m. radiation treatment. Isn't that nice: one in chemo/the other in radiation. Who could have predicted such an event? He wanted to go solo and hope to sleep some while there. I'm going to bring him a special dessert when I see him.

Monday, August 29, 2005

Radiation/Day 11

When you put system down and a Monday together: you get a bad day on the job. No need to say anything else.

Went for my 11th treatment today. Got to meet with my doctor for the weekly checkup. All is going well. Next week, after my 15th treatment, I will have blood work to check to see if everything is actually AOK.

Tim goes back to school tomorrow. And I hope for a better day at work.

Sunday, August 28, 2005

Tim and I slept in camper last night for something different. Eileen, you said the rain was soothing as you slept in camper in April: last night it kept me awake! It would come down heavy at different times during the night. I think I'll be napping this afternoon...

Off to church. Checking out a new one to see if they play more upbeat music.

Church results: shorter mass and music a bit better. But not like the church we went to on Long Island. I never realized how modern that church was until we left and came here.

Before Barry went to work we made a trip to Dutch Isle for some ice cream. In front of the restaurant the town has one of those signs that displays the speed you are traveling. While we were sitting there a buggy flew by so fast. And we thought of TimBa. If only he was with us to videotape that, plus we wondered if the buggy's speed showed on the display! He certainly was going more than 35 mph. Where were you when we needed you?

I took a nice afternoon nap (continue not to have sweats). Tim rode his bike for about 3 miles.

After dinner, Tim and I did short walk.

All in all, a pretty nice weekend. But then, it was a pretty nice week!

I want to thank everyone for all the wonderful meals that were delivered to us. And to Michelle S. who co-ordinated the schedule. They were truly a blessing. I've called her and for now the angels can have a break. But she has told me that I can start it up at any moment. And I also want to thank everyone who has taken Tim to and from an event. I know this will continue but I am truly appreciative. I've learned to accept help along the way.

Here's to a new week. Tim is now a freshman, new classes, and new activities. He will be playing in the band at our first football game this Friday. Even though I'm not much of a school football fan I think I will enjoy just seeing him play each game.

Saturday, August 27, 2005

I've had my third night of sleep without experiencing any night sweats! My first night was when Tim had arrived. Perhaps he brought me good luck, or perhaps the medication is working. Either way I hope it continues. Sure does make my life easier.

Haven't done much today. After a busy work week I do enjoy my weekend. A time to relax from work and radiation. So far radiation is a piece of cake compared to chemo. Hope it continues to be that way for the remaining 5 weeks.

Tim had soccer practice again today. This past month has been a busy summer month for him. Started with band camp and practice, and then soccer camp. I think he's going to have a busy school year. He doesn't even have a study hall this year. Jammed pack with classes. But that's a good thing. I am confident he can continue to do well in school along with enjoying the sport of soccer.

PS. Hoppe: I did take a nice nap today!

After dinner we went for ice cream at Dairy Queen. Dutch Isle was closed at 6:30 p.m.. Hard to believe that. And we had our hearts set on that place. Soon it will be closed for the season.

Friday, August 26, 2005

A great week

It's Friday and as I look back at this week I say: what a great week! It's been a long 5 months but this week was one of the good weeks. We got to see Vinny and Darlene from LI and of course cousin Tim. Lots of good memories to keep close to our hearts. Have a safe trip home, Tim and as you may have said in the past "slice of heaven." (memory a bit gone, or similar words!). And as everyone knows, we always have room at the inn. And when you return, we'll even have more Amish for you to see. By the way, I think we satisfied your requirements: Beef Jerkey, Vodka, and Pizza.

Off to work but it's already a good day. I get to wear jeans today. That's a plus in itself.

And when I come home tonight, I will have 2 weeks of radiation done. It is going very fast in my opinion.

The house was too quiet when I came home from work today. No men in the house. Barry working, cousin Tim gone and Tim at soccer. Eventually Tim came home and we went out to McDonald's for quick bite. And then to Staples for some school supplies. School starts next Tuesday for Timster.

I cut the lawn while Tim washed my truck. Thought that was a good deal. And now Tim has a friend sleeping over.

Thursday, August 25, 2005

Enjoying Tim's company

Barry was able to show his cousin more of our country today. Tim pokes fun at our country living here, but deep down inside I think he wants to be Amish. But I don't think Amish live near the ocean, and that's a requirement for him.

I had my 9th radiation treatment.

The 2 Tims did some target practice out back with our Tim this afternoon. They seem to enjoy that.

We went to a Mexican restaurant for dinner which was about 10 miles away. To cousin Tim it felt like it was an hour away. But for us, it was just a short ride. And if I may say so, they had good sangria. This is a must for a Mexican restaurant.

And as I sit here typing my thoughts for the day, I realize that cousin Tim will be leaving tomorrow. And I realize that I don't have any pics of him and myself. That's what happens when you take the pictures. The time sure did go too quickly but am so thankful that he took the time to come visit us. It certainly did brighten Barry's spirits. Thank you.

The 2 Tims got a chance to play with the pellet gun. Posted by Picasa

Barry and Tim. Home on the range. Posted by Picasa

Tim relaxing after a day with the Amish. Posted by Picasa

Wednesday, August 24, 2005

Cuzzin Tim arrives today

Barry will be going to pick up Cuzzin Tim at airport this a.m.

Radiation/Day 8.

Barry picked up Tim at the airport. Actually the plane was a bit early. Before Barry had even left for the airport, he bought some beef jerky for him. One of his requests for the visit. They arrived at the house shortly after noon. It was so great to see Tim. It's been too long in between visits. And I've said this before when my family was here in April: Family IS the best medicine. Not only do I feel it, I know that Barry is truly enjoying his cousin's visit.

We went out to lunch at Rachel's and then I took off for my daily radiation treatment. It was actually nice not having to run back to work after the appointment.

Barry went to work for a couple of hours. This allowed me the time to give Tim a tour of the Amish countryside. He kept saying to me "show me some Amish". He was able to get good footage of some local Amish (OK to photograph if not asked to pose) as I made a purchase of fresh tomatoes. Eileen, you would have loved to see the young 'uns. So cute.

While Tim was at band practice, the three of us went out to dinner. He compared the area we live in to being like Alaska frontier! I think Tim is in culture shock being in this area. While sitting outside this afternoon with him, he was amazed that he only saw 2 kids riding bikes and perhaps a total of 5 vehicles on our road. And mom, he also likes the sound of clip/clop of the horses. He needs to be close to the ocean like my father. But for now in my life, the silence of this area is so soothing to my soul.

Well, it's a little before 11 p.m. and the big boys are in bed already. A busy but enjoyable day. Unfortunately I have to work tomorrow, but this will give Barry and his cousin time to be together.

Tuesday, August 23, 2005

Radiation/Day 7

Actually the # of days is going pretty fast. The woman I met last week named Sue finished her treatment today. Gave her a hug for good luck.

I got a special delivery at the bank today from a special lady, Aileen. It was delivered to a woman I know at the bank, Sue M. It was a piece of aloe from her plant to be used on my radiated area. Aileen, if you are reading this I want you to know that Sue M. thought you were one special lady. She really enjoyed talking to you. She's seen you somewhere else. I agreed with her.

All set for Tim#1 tomorrow. Or as someone might think, George Clooney. Can't wait to see him. He's always been very special to us/me. We've been married 25 years so I've known him for a little more than that. After all, look who our son Tim was named after.. One of the good guys.

Monday, August 22, 2005

Radiation/Day 6

1/6th of my way done with treatment. Really is going fast in my opinion. Met with my dr. today. Once a week that happens.

Barry's boss from LI, Vinnie and his wife Darlene stopped by and took us out to dinner. It was great seeing them. They had been to a wedding in Pennsylvania and always do take the time to visit us. They're on their way back home now. Glad it's them driving all the way and not me. I hate that ride on Rt. 80.

Nothing else to report. It's already a good week and it's going to get even better. Can't wait for Wednesday to come.

Sunday, August 21, 2005


One week done with radiation. Can you see me glowing? I light up my back yard. Posted by Picasa

I'm having a "hair-a-bration"! Nice and soft. I love it. I love just touching it. Barry calls it "chicken feathers." Posted by Picasa

A resting day

Tim slept over at Ben's house after being treated like a King at the Indians game. He kept talking about how nice the accomodations were, and that the Indians even won the game. It's nice to see how the other half lives. He will remember that treat for a long time.

Barry and I both got up late again this morning. And I don't have any guilt about it. Just seemed to be tired a lot. Can't wait for a good nights sleep. Even took an afternoon nap (Tim did also on the couch).

In the morning we all did yard work. Barry and Tim did weed wacking and I did more lawn mowing. We all worked up a good sweat.

My truck didn't even leave the yard today. I did only to take a walk with Tim this evening. Yes, I walked. He made me do it!

Other than that, it was a nice quiet day. No complaints. Tomorrow I meet with my radiologist oncologist to review my first week of radation. I meet every Monday with him. Has to make sure that they are lining up the points of radiation correctly.

One more thing: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!!

Saturday, August 20, 2005

Special treats

I got a package today from probably my longest known girl friends today, Mary Lou. When we visited her on Nantucket we went to see her sister Patty. In Patty's home there was a beautiful picture of house. It had the appearance that you were actually there and looking at it. Hard to describe/fence and all. Really touched me. And the gift was that same picture. Brought good tears to my eyes as I opened and read the note: You said you liked it, I hope you do. Because you're stuck with it! Something like that. Thank you Mary Lou.

Tim also got a nice treat today. Got invited to see Cleveland Indians play this evening with his friend Ben and family. He was excited to be invited, but guess what? Not just ordinary seats, they will be sitting in a suite! Can't beat that.
So today is a pretty good day for our family. Nice friends.

So, when he leaves for the game shortly, I think that will be my time to hit the bed.
Thunder and rain around. Perfect opportunity to take a nap. I still don't sleep well at night, but I think the pill I take in the evening for night sweats is helping. Not getting up as often. Someone at my job found one of those hand held fans, like you see at a Chinese restaurant. So at night I can fan myself when needed. Made of nice fabric. She said she found it at a flea market for a buck. Good buy.

Friday, August 19, 2005

When do 5 days equal 1 week?

Answer:

When you are having radiation treatment! I now have 1 week completed out of 7 weeks of radiation. Yeah, yeah. And I'm not even glowing in the dark...

TGIF. A much calmer day at work today. Thank goodness.

Thursday, August 18, 2005

Radiation/Day 4

My how time flies when you're having fun. One week almost done with. Yeah.

As for a small world, it continues. I work with someone who also knows Sue who is ending her radiation treatment at the Center. And now Aileen knows her. And yes, she rides her bike all the time. Another nice person.

Another friend of mine is using aloe plant for her radiation treatment. Aileen, perhaps I could try that route. I could stop by the store during my lunch to get it.
Just post what's convenient for you. That would be great.

The girl who had jury duty at my job returns to work tomorrow. Another YEAH in capital letters. I was smart today. I actually took my whole lunch hour.

Just think, next week we get to enjoy TimBa. A triple YEAH.

Wednesday, August 17, 2005

Radiation/Day 3

Maureen suggested I have an advent calendar where I can open up the dates as I go through my radiation countdown.

Ditto for the job today....But one thing, I actually got an email from my supervisor saying thanks for the hard work these past days. That was nice. She and I have been the sole workers.

While waiting for my appt. I got to talking with the woman who goes before me. She actually lives in same town, one street away. Small world isn't it. Very nice woman, her name is Kathleen. Another woman there actually comes from a pool every day, now that's the life I want to have! Says her suit is sometimes still wet.

Tim played at the local county fair in the band this evening. Pretty active fair for such a country area. Lots of people there. I got stood up though. My son is growing up too fast. Decided he would rather hang out with the girls rather than me. How cruel is that!!? So I gave him the money and he was on his way to a fun evening. Me, I settled for some french fries by myself. Not what I had planned to do but at least he's happy.

Now I'm home. Tim's got a ride home with his friends. We're so lucky to have such good friends to take Tim places. Truly blessed.

One more thing. Opened up my mail to find that I got summoned for Jury Duty! But alas, I can't serve since I will still be going through radiation. Shucks. Would have been so much better than working. Just have to get doctor's note showing my medical condition. I can not miss any radiation.

Tuesday, August 16, 2005

Radiation/Day 2

It was day 2 for another hell of a day at my job, and day 2 for my radiation. Once again, only 2 of us working a Help Line. And it could be that way for the rest of the week. I'm not sure how much longer I can work under such conditions. I've been going in a bit early just to compensate for the time away for my radiation appt. in the afternoon. And not even taking a whole lunch. And to think this is the time I need to rest and get strong for these 7 weeks of radiation. Something's wrong with this picture. In my opinion, considering how hard I have worked these past couple of days, you would think a boss could say two small words to me: thank you. But I guess that is for dreamers. Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad if I was able to get a good night's sleep.

I leave work at 2:30 p.m. and go directly to my appointment, and back to work by a little past 3 p.m. While there, I talk to others and they can't believe that I'm running for radiation while working full time. You get to meet and talk with same people each day due to everyone being on a schedule. Nice people.

Well, enough of me bitchin' in plain English. Can't call it PMS!

Oh yes, as for people suggesting nice sounds to sleep by: I wish I could but I'm the type person who needs quiet while sleeping. Perhaps I've got to change my ways in my young life...

Monday, August 15, 2005

My first radiation appt. today

I was unable to sleep from 2-5 a.m. this morning. Literally just layed in bed, tossed and turned. Seems to be the norm lately. Off to work.

Well, one radition down/34 more to go! The treatment is only minutes, it takes me longer to get dressed/undressed. Don't feel a thing, just hear the sound of the machine. Afterwards, I have to put aloe vera gel on the area several times a day to prevent burning/peeling.

Very busy day at work today but I managed. Only me and one other girl. Did take 1/2 hr. lunch to relax.

That's it for now. A mentally tiring day.

Sunday, August 14, 2005

A day to rest

Stayed up until midnight last night watching Cleveland Browns game. It was good to see Mel Jr. playing center. The broadcasters had a couple nice comments on his playing ability which was nice. It was another late morning in getting out of bed. Lately since I'm not sleeping through the night, I have so little energy during the day.

Michelle R and her son David stopped by to say goodbye. They will be moving to Shenandoah Valley. It was nice seeing them one last time. I wish them well in their new journeys.

Tim and I went shopping for some sneakers and couple items for school. His soccer camp starts tomorrow for a 2 week period. He'll be going for about 6 hrs. total time M-F. He will certainly get lots of practice time in.

And yes, I took a nice 2 hr. nap after shopping. For once it was such a good nap. Hated to get up. Had to drag myself out of bed.

Tomorrow at 3 p.m. is my first radiation appointment.

Saturday, August 13, 2005

Another hot day!

We rolled out of bed at about 11:30 a.m. I take whatever rest time I can get these days, and it felt good.

Went over to Ohio to get filters for hot tub (company's coming you know!) and then a quick trip to Sam's Club.

Been up long enough that I deserve a nap! Temps continue to be in high 80s with no rain for such a long time.

Friday, August 12, 2005

X-Rays in prep for radiation

I went for X-Rays this morning. Pretty cool machine that did them. I lay down on the mold that was specially molded to my head/shoulder area and the machine went back and forth over me in an oval motion. Meanwhile technicians are making sure that my body remains in the exact position it should be. Each week I will have this done to make sure of accuracy. I've been told that next Monday will be my first radiation treatment. Every weekday at 3 p.m. I am scheduled for treatment. No ifs, ands or buts.

Actually I'm sort of looking forward to Monday because the sooner I get started, the sooner the seven weeks will be done with.

Thursday, August 11, 2005

Barry's chemo day

Barry had a 9:20 a.m. appt. with Dr. Garrow in preparation for his 5th round of chemo. Today was actually the shortest time at the center for him. 6 1/2 hrs. total time. He is such a strong person. Immediately after he gets unhooked from his IV he goes to work. I can speak for someone who has been there, and I did not do as he does. He's one of a kind in my eyes. Talk about a good work ethic!

At this time I would like to thank our angels this week: Mary B and Kelly H. I've said this before and I will say it again, without these angels I do believe that both of us would not have stayed as healthy as we did. We truly have appreciated your acts of kindness. It will not be forgotten.

I got a call this afternoon from Cancer Center about myself. I've been scheduled for X-Rays in final preparation for my radiation treatment. The appointment is tomorrow morning. I've heard that X-Rays are taken to determine the depth that they can radiate without touching my lungs. So I may start treatment next week.

Wednesday, August 10, 2005

My goal for the day

Is to be in my bed at 5:30 p.m.! today for a little rest before going to a soccer meeting at 7 p.m. I need sleep.

And I achieved my goal, if only for 45 minutes. I'll take any minute I can get.

Barry goes for his 5th chemo treatment tomorrow. I am taking the day off to spend time with him. It will probably be Panera for lunch. He enjoys that.

Just found out that next week at work it could possibly be just me and another girl to work a help line. And I'm probably going to start radiation then. If I'm pooped now, what will next week bring me? One thing I am certain about, I am taking a lunch break. Today I even rested on the couch at work during my lunch. And if I have any effect from radiation, I will not work. My health is #1.

Tuesday, August 09, 2005

Getting ready for radiation

I had an 8 a.m. appt. at the Cancer Center today in preparation for radiation. At this time the doctor literally mapped out my breast to where the radiation will be going to. Drew a lot of dots and lines on it and then the technician put some kind of CT scan tapes with mini wires attached to it on the drawings. I then was put through the CT scan machine for about 10 minutes of scanning. Before all this, I lay down on a type of pillow, rested my hands over my head and then a machine sucked the air out of the pillow and made a hard mold of my upper body/head. This will be used each time as I get radiation to make sure that I am in same position each treatment. Within a week I will be going back for X Rays and then treatment will begin. Right now someone is sitting down and preparing how and where the radiation will be administered.

These past couple of days I'm feeling the lack of sleep catch up on me. I yawn on the way to and from work. Today at work the afternoon dragged so for me. I wanted just to lay down and sleep. Upon getting into the house I told Barry and Tim I was heading to bed. I couldn't wait just to get under the covers. I rested for about 2 hrs. and then got up. Still tired but at least I dozed a bit. I'm going to try to get to bed earlier than usual. I've heard that radiation's effect can be fatigue and I don't need that on top of already being tired.

Monday, August 08, 2005

NEGATIVE biopsy results!!

I heard from the doctor and the biopsy results are NEGATIVE! Just cysts. I'm so relieved.

Hearing the above results made me beyond happy. It was a long weekend just thinking and pondering of what they could be. But that's in the past.

There is no need to even write anything else besides the above good news. That truly says it all for me today.

Sunday, August 07, 2005

A day to rest up

Last night was the least slept night I've had recently. Am thinking it could have been due to a spicy chicken dip I had at party last night. It wasn't too spicy but now I remember that you should avoid spicy food when going through night sweats. It sure was good though. Usually I can fall back to sleep after waking up with the sweats, but not last night. I would just lay there for an hour or so. Think I got up about every hour.

The devil did tempt me not to go to church this morning but my heart won out. I did hop right back into bed as I was changing my clothes and slept for about 90 minutes.
I can feel the lack of a good night's sleep catching up on me. I have started on the medication that the doctor gave me. It's been only 3 nights so it's too soon to see any results. I've been told that it works for about 70% of women going through it. I hope I'm one of those. I need some relief if I'll be starting radiation on August 15th. I'll be going Monday through Fridays for seven weeks.

So, considering it's Sunday I think it's time for a nap.

Saturday, August 06, 2005

Street Fair

Our town is having a little street fair this weekend. So that's where we'll be heading at lunch time. A chance to check out some good food.

Later this evening we've been invited to a get together at our friends' home. That should be nice.

Barry, Tim and I went to the fair at noontime. There didn't seem to be as many food vendors this year. We had a little something to eat. Barry enjoyed a fresh Amish donut and both he and Tim had fresh Amish ice-cream. While there a woman came towards me with a beautiful hat on as if she knew me. Very classy looking. And of course she did. The problem was that she didn't seem familiar to me. She re-introduced herself to me as Aileen M. whom I had met a few weeks ago, another breast cancer survivor. The other time I had seen her she had a cap on with fake hair. She owns a local grocery store and I was shopping in it that day. She was at the fair today enjoying the singing talent of her daughter. It was so nice of her to once again come up to me. And even more nice of her to take the time to post a comment on my blog about our meeting. Thanks Aileen! You're another special angel in my life.

In the evening we went to our friends home for a get together. It was a chance to talk and socialize with friends. And the kids were able to be kids in the yard. Once it got dark, we had a fire and were able to cook samoas. A small gathering but when you are able to talk to everyone which made it even more nicer. We are so blessed to have such good friends.

Friday, August 05, 2005

Mammogram/sonogram/biopsy

I had 3 mammogram pictures done, followed by another 3 mammogram pictures of the left breast this morning. I then had a sonogram done. The right breast is the one that had cancer. The radiologist (I believe the same radiologist I had from last year who said I had enlarged gland which turned out to be cancer) told me that the 2 cysts that are showing up today have always been there from the May 2004 reports. Both cysts are smaller in size. He told me that if they were cancer they would be larger or the same size. My reply to him was that I just came through 12 weeks of chemo and that could have caused shrinkage. He said that if I was concerned about them that he could write in his report and say that they could be aspirated/biopsied. I told him I was concerned after all I had been through. I asked him if he could do the additional procedure now. Even though he was to only have worked 1/2 day, he said he could. I was grateful. He then aspirated the areas and sent the samples to be checked out. I'm not sure when the results will be back.
Perhaps in the past I would have accepted his answer as just that. But this is my body and I had to be demanding. And for the first time I got to see the pictures of the growth which turned out to be cancerous. I wanted this radioligist to see what they wrote in their report and to know that it turned out to be cancer.

I was there for over 2 1/2 hrs. By the time I left there I knew that I could not go back to work. When they aspirate the areas, this is done with long needle. And the needle does not always just pop the area. It was a bit painful. Along with that, it was very emotional. I couldn't wait to get home. I called my job and said that I was going home.

I was able to nap for about 2 hrs. on and off.

I'm hearing the band from the house now. The band returned from band camp and they are getting ready the show at 7 p.m. They've worked hard all week.

That's it for now. A long day.

Tim's band performance was very good. It proved how hard they worked for the week. He made many new friends (and it seems most are girls!). His new name is Hot Lips, given to him by his senior buddy. As we were leaving a few girls were calling him by that new name. His voice has gotten so deep these past days. My son is growing up so fast. It's good to have him home. And he was glad to walk into an air conditioned home.

Thursday, August 04, 2005

1st Meeting with Radiation Oncologist

The appt. is at 8 a.m. Will post more about it tonight.

It's been 3 weeks since my last chemo so therefore this would have been a chemo day. How strange.

I met with the dr. In his examination he noticed something in the other breast. I have to go have a mammogram tomorrow morning. Not what I had expected to hear today. Am a bit down right now, but praying that it's just cysts like I was subject to. But I had an examination from the other dr. when I first began chemo and it wasn't there. Can only think that with all this chemo drugs it can't be anything bad. Will keep you posted. My blood counts came out good today. No need for Procrit which by the way costs $1500.00. I saw that on my insurance statement.

My next appt. to get prepped for radiation is next Tuesday.

My mind hasn't stopped thinking of tomorrow's mammogram. But am hearing from a lot of people that once you have cancer, every little thing has to be checked and rechecked. I am glad that the appt. is in the morning. I have to stay focused and positive and know that the waiting is the worst thing.

Wednesday, August 03, 2005

Hair does grow back

All quiet on the home front. Nothing new to report. Off to work.

Tomorrow morning I meet with radiologist oncologist to see how many treatments of radiation I will be going through.

It was on May 25, 2005 (about 10 weeks ago) that my hair was falling out. I took control that day and had it shaved off. And here I am today to report that my head has noticeable hair growing on it. People at my job come up and mention that fact to me. And I've had a few people ask to touch my knew born hair (for some reason mostly men)! Of course I tell them it's OK. It's hard to believe it's coming back. I have to stop and look at myself in the mirror just to see it. But you know, for these 10 weeks I've held my head up high and walked around with strength I never knew I had. I wore a wig for about 4 hrs. and other than that I just wore a couple of hats and many bandanas. For the most part I wore nothing but my smile. That was how I was most comfortable. I know there are many people going through chemo but I have never seen another female walking around bald. I was hoping to make a fashion statement and start a trend. Time will tell.

This evening the kids at band camp put on a show. I did not go to it. The camp is about 2 hrs. from here and I think the show was going to be very brief. My friend BJ went to it. She just called me to tell me that she saw Tim and gave him a hug for me. The day before Tim left for camp he had a bad headache and his vision was off a bit. So I asked BJ to ask Tim how he was feeling. He said great. The kids were so energized. She told me that each freshman had a senior buddy. And Tim's buddy gave him pink furry handcuffs! So that got a lot of laughs at camp. I'm so glad that BJ took the time to call me, even though she still has a long drive home.
Thank you.

Tuesday, August 02, 2005

Good news! Tim's coming to see us...

Off to work soon. Am taking a nice lunch to work, compliments of an angel last night. Will consider it Tim's portion. Just hope today is a better/calmer day at work. Time will tell.

Was up most of the night with sweats. Did eventually just leave my small hand held fan on beside my bed aimed at me. That seemed to work the best, up until the battery ran out. Considering the battery has been in there for many years it did OK.
New battery time tonight.

Just got official notice that Barry's cousin is coming to visit end of this month. He's one of my favorite bloggers and who my son Tim is named after. So for a couple of days, we'll have two Tims in the house. What a treat! We are really looking forward to this visit. He's been very supportive to us especially the past couple of months.

And yes, cousin Tim is hot stud muffin grandfather that plays in a blues band, rides a motorcycle, has a vintage motoryacht and looks like George Clooney on a bad day. And I have pictures to prove these facts. And don't forget the gorgeous wife and two great kids.

And it was a better day at work today. Thank goodness...

Monday, August 01, 2005

Another cool 59 degree morning but will surely heat up. Last night I pulled out the small hand held fan that has water misting ability. Used that a couple of times when the night sweats came. Worked pretty good. At least it is being used beside Disney!

Tim's first day at camp. Now it's Barry's turn to miss his buddy.

Work was extremely busy. Had someone go home sick within an hour of starting, therefore leaving only two of us to handle a helpline. Now that was fun. But we did take a lunch. I was not going to work without a much needed break.
Am hoping tomorrow is a better day.

Work on our driveway continued today after a weeklong break. Should be done with it in one more evening. Needed to make it wider to handle the trailer when backing it in along with upgrading the culvert. Will definitely look better once complete.