Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

JulieK_11_30_07

Hi Jewels --- well, the foobies are a little less painful after a couple days. It's still tough to get comfortable when I'm sleeping - have to prop up and readjust several times a night. We went boating yesterday for Father's Day - that's what the dh wanted to do, so we packed up and headed to the lake for the day. It was wonderful! The weather was perfect --- sunny and upper 80's and the water was actually refreshing. Ds had a blast on the tube for a long time - he just loves when the dh tries to "throw" him off - I'm a nervous wreck, of course!

I'll let the girls in my book club know that we have several honorary members - our next one is August 19 and I still need to get the new book. I'm a rather slow reader (actually just don't usually have time!) so I need to get started soon. I've been reading every night lately, though, to help me fall asleep.

Tina - hope the cleaning went well. You gotta love the ds's food requests!!! Sounds like you've got everything covered!

LJ - glad you got the drain out and you're doing well! I can't wait till my hair is long enough that I can go topless! I'm definitely noticing it filling in more. Sounds like you're totally prepared for your rads!!

D1 - that was so sweet of your dd's to make dinner and a shirt for Father's Day. Sounds like you've done a great job raising them.

Carol - Ginny's house and yard sound beautiful!!! Glad you had such a great time! CONGRATS on being done with your pills!!!!! YAY on getting to throw the bottle away! That had to be such a wonderful feeling! Glad you had such a nice day yesterday!

Kathy - sounds like you had a busy day yesterday too!! Glad things went so well. Never heard of "Rita's" we have "Tropical Snow" which is an Italian ice place, but nothing special really.

Therese - So good to hear from you - I've been wondering how you were doing. Sorry to hear about your co-workers being dx with bc. Glad you've been keeping busy with "normalcy" around your house - it's a good feeling to start doing some of the normal, every day stuff, isn't it??

Kimberly - your trip sounds wonderful - I bet that concert was awesome! I can completely relate with the male PMS - my dh goes through it periodically also! He's been wonderful through this whole "journey" but definitely has his moments of feeling unloved - I'm sure the zero sex doesn't help in my case!! (sorry, girls, if TMI!) Happy anniversary!! Hope you find something to make for dinner.

Joan - congrats on your last week of rads - yipppeeee!!!!!

Paula - that's insane that the photographer has a minimum order required!! Especially that high!! I'd definitely question that or try a different photographer if you can. Glad your dh is doing well with his new meds. I hope your Dallas trip goes well --- that's great the whole fam can go with you!

Dana - so good to hear from you - sounds like you're doing well! I'm envious that you're planning a cruise! I've always wanted to go on one, but just haven't done it.

Norma - sounds like you had a busy weekend too. I've looked at Golden Doodles before - they're so adorable!!! We're actually starting to look for a puppy for ds - he has it narrowed down to a black lab or a Rottweiler - dh and I had a Rott right after we got married and had her until ds was about two. She was a wonderful dog and it was so hard when we had to put her down. We have an 8-yr old lab/chow mix right now, but he's getting pretty old.

Well, girls - I better get moving. Need to take ds to Tae Kwon Do tonight --- my dh left this morning for Springfield for a 4-day conference so it's just me and ds hanging out this week. He's got something each night, Mon - Wed, then on Thursday is the Survivor Dinner at my school's Relay event, Friday night I'll do the Survivor Lap, then I'm doing the St. Louis Relay on Saturday with my team! It's going to be a BUSY week!!

Hope everyone has a good Monday!!

Julie

P.S. I must be totally clueless, but what song are you all talking about with "she's got electric boobs"???

Anonymous

B-b-b-b-b-bennie and the jets ....

Have fun with more misheard lyrics: http://www.kissthisguy.com/funny.php 

Determined1

Whew!!  We had one heck of a storm pass through here today.  Power was on and off all afternoon and my poor dog is a shaking mess!  Cooler temps should follow, so I'm all in!

Yes, my friend, Carol, life is good!!!!  Congrats to you.  (Oh, college girl just brought me a beer, so I tilt my bottle in your honor.)

"She has electric boobs, her ma has too?"  We never interpreted that second line quite like that.  Somehow the mohair suit made into our consciousness way back when!  (Although we didn't know what a mohair suit was either, Paula.)  And your bff had a Mustang Cobra?  Mine drove a Corvair.  And I drove a '65 Ford Fairlane.  Cost me $200, which was a pretty penny when you're earning 50 cents an hour babysitting!  Thank God I got the job at the donut shop-I was loaded after that! 

I hope your trip to Dallas goes well.  It sounds like you've got it all organized.  And the break from rads will give your field a chance to heal up some.

Holy moly-those senior pic prices are steep!  My dd has her sitting tomorrow and the cheapest one is 6 poses for $25.  I'm going to spring for the next level-10-12 poses-for $40 because we learned with college girl that 6 poses is not enough.  I don't remember what the packages cost us, but we don't have an obligation to buy anything, so if they're awful, we'll start over.  A company called LifeTouch Prestige Portraits does our school and they come right to the school to take the pictures.  Guess I gotta get all the checks written and stuff filled out for that...

And yeah, I think my hormones are outta whack.  I'm not sure what to do about it, but I will bring it up at my gyn exam next week.

PALady-sounds like your weekend was all about soccer and fishing!  Total dad stuff, huh?  Congrats to your kids on their success on the soccer field.  Must've been a good experience for them.  Golden Doodles, they're the standard poodle/golden retriever mix, aren't they?  Quite a bit bigger than my 15 lb. baby.

There's a tamoxifen metabolism test out there (I Googled it).  I printed out the info on it and took it in to discuss with my onc, but he doesn't put much stock in it.  He seems to think that Tamoxifen, which has been around for some 40 years, has a great track record and strongly recommended it to me.  I may switch to another drug in a couple of years, but he wants me to start here.  He told me I could do anything in moderation (I asked about drinking)-of course, I'm not sure whose definition of moderation we're using here...  He did not say anything about aspirin and I did not ask, since I don't take them.  My multiple vitamins are fine.  I am going to run all of this by my gyn when I see him, just because I want to have some confirmation.

Oh no, LJ!  My heart just sank.  My cording was/is under my arm and restricts my range of motion.  My legu had/has me simulate the action of carrying a waiter's tray at shoulder level and rotate it back and forth, keeping my hand bent back at the wrist and flat, just like I'm carrying a tray on it.  Once I was able to do that easily, she had me raise my "tray" higher and higher and continue to swing it back and forth from my shoulder, keeping it flat so I don't dump anything off the "tray."  Is this making sense to you?  Do it gradually, you don't want to exacerbate anything.  LE massage is pretty specialized and you'll want to be taught how to do it correctly in person.  I will say, any light rubbing you need to do to make the cording more comfortable should be done from the elbow toward the shoulder-not the other direction.  If you have lymph issues, you don't want to encourage anything to go down your arm.  And get thyself a script for a consultation with a lymphedema specialist pronto!  You want to make sure you don't have anything long term wrong going on there.  Please keep me posted.

SIS Kimberly-Well, there's a sex drought at my house, too, but I won't go into the details here.  Just seems that if you REALLY want to, you don't NEED your arms.......  Hope that anniversary evening goes well!

And same advice to you-get a referral to a lymphedema therapist and have your arm checked out.  All you guys have to do is ask for it-if one doc won't give it, go to the next one.  Pretend you're teenagers and want to use the car-you keep asking a parent till one gives you what you want.  I'm not kidding. 

Okay, off to see what's up for dinner.  I volunteered to cook tonight since dh is having his procedure done tomorrow (he's having something done to minimize his acne scars, which have bothered him his whole life.  I'm kinda sad to see them go as I think they give his face a wonderful character, but I'm not going to tell him that.  I'll just be supportive and know that if I want to get my boobs fixed up after all this turmoil that he'll have to let me!).  Anyway, I'm trying some new recipes.  First is Vietnamese beef sandwiches for which I've been marinating the flank steak.  Then I'll grill it and slice it up to be served in a baguette with shredded carrot, cilantro, scallions and a rice vinegar/ginger dressing.  Then I'm making roasted sweet potatoes and pears (sounded interesting).  My poor family.  Since I discovered cooking a couple of years ago I subject them to all kinds of new stuff.  I leave the fancy cooking to dh, as he's really an excellent cook, but I'm good with the grill!

Toodles.

D1

KathyL

Therese:  Good to read your posts.  Sounds like you've been busy.  Sorry to hear about your 2 fellow nurses.  Just isn't fair, is it?  But good to know that you cared for 3 who are mighty survivors!  Let's focus on that...

Kimberly:  Sounds like one packed weekend.  Love reading about your escapades.  Yes, the kids made dh some stuff at preschool.  dd made him a fish card with some red, gummy fish attached in a decorated baggie (he actually loves that candy, so he was thrilled).  ds made a CD case that has his artwork and picture on it.  They loved giving him the stuff and could barely contain themselves until Sunday morning.

D1:  How nice of your girls to treat dear dad to some cooking.  Always a way to make him happy.  The shirt is a cool idea, too.

I've thought about the tats redo by a "pro".  Will have to see what my ps says/does at the next visit when I may be able to get he to do some touching-up.  Could always get the nip done with something more exciting by a tat artist!

Joan:  My mom isn't done teaching until this week.  She started the last week of August I think.  By now she's probably counting the hours as she's retiring also!

Carol:  YEA!!!  Doing the happy dance for you now that your done with those last pills!

Paula:  Holy crap that's a lot of money for pictures!  I hope they give you a nice assortment-and they should be flawless/touched up for that price!

PALady:  Keep us posted on you bil.  I hope he responds well to his tx.

LJ:  Get thee to a physical therapist, woman!  Preferably one who specializes in BC therapy.  I found it to be extremely helpful for my post-surgery cording and went 2-3 times a week for about 8-10 weeks.  I have great ROM now and only occasionally need to stretch it out.

I used the wall walk exercise a lot (walk you fingers up the wall as far as you can each time until your arms is straightened).  Also did a lot of this one:  lay on the floor on your back, lift arms above you and over your head, try to touch/lower hands to the floor.  Or: lay on floor on your back, lift arms at 90 degree angle to floor/body, lower hands to forehead (gradually work your way to hands on your chest, pushing elbows downward towards the floor).

Kimberly:  hmmm... The "drought" must be extending all the way to the East coast as evidence by me and D1!  Maybe when you wake up in the middle of the night next time, you could give dh "a little"... would make him happy, and may help you fall asleep again!  (Just a thought-worked once for me; and I do stress the ONCE). 

‘Night Jewels!!

golfer779

Hi Ladies,

Probably shouldn't admit it but I had so much "fun" yesterday evening that there was no way my head was going to allow me to get up at 5:00 for work. Ended up going in at 9:00, feeling a bit better. I went for "quality" with my beverage choice, but unfortunately forgot about that "quantity" thing!

Julie, sure hope that you all avoided as many waves as possible while boating, I can't imagine that would feel too good on the Foobies.

D1, hey send one of those sandwiches my way, they sound great! Yesterday was about the first time I've spent any real time in the "galley" (as we like to call it), since October. Aaaah, that's where that quantity problem started yesterday afternoon.

LJ, I'll be checking out the website of lyrics, I could use a laugh this eve.

Kimberly, wow, not the news I would have expected from your home front. Hope that a little anniversary celebration snaps your dh out of his funk. Sorry I did have to lol at D1's comment about your arms!!! I think our dh's need a forum of their own to help themselves as they try to support us. My name can be added to the "drought" list as well. I'm talking my libido is totally non-existent and now I have to wonder when/will it come back.  It definitely got worse when the ol' chemopause happened come March.  Sometimes I wonder just how patient my dh can be??!! 

Norma, I havn't heard about the no alcohol bit while on Tamo. I don't think I want to ask that question of my onc, as I may not like what the answer is. Actually I would assume as D1's doc said, "moderation" is key. Guess I would have been over the top last night!

We've spent many a weekend at the soccer fields, last year was the first year with no kids playing. Sounds like both of your sons are on pretty good teams.

Paula, thanks for the call today, so did we buy that chair at Target??? I took note on the calcium ... I take one 500mg in the am and one in the pm.

Have a good time in Texas, and let those security dudes cruise the halls of the hotel, try to get some rest gal.

Therese, looks like your as busy as ever. I'm with you, its pretty cool to share more than what problem is rearing its ugly head and to see some of the "fun" stuff that's been going on. I'm sure you all will be happy to not have to hear about my "GI" distress anymore.

So sorry to hear of your co-workers diagnoses. So much for that 1 of 8 women will get bc. Sounds like the quota is definitely filled up. I sure hope that each case was caught soon, and I know you'll be a great inspiration for them both.

Kris, you go gal ... I'll have you in my thoughts tomorrow for another uneventful txt.

Kathy, I can just picture your kids being hyped to give their dad his gifts.  Those moments in time are precious.  My son has gone from those days to now having to be told to acknowledge his dad, I'm looking forward to the next phase of his life when its not totally about him. 

I'm totally wiped out this evening, will be hitting the hay really early and looking forward to a new day tomorrow.

Night all, Carol

wvgirl

Hello

Well my last treatment went well. I was not as sick as the last 2.

I was able to attend the Relay and I signed the Fight Back Bus!!!

This weekend is the Relay in my county.

I saw the surgeon yesterday. She is concerned with the new lump. She does not think it is a cyst. MRI is not until the 27. I now wonder if the A/C did ANYTHING !!!

I will see surgeon on July 1 and Onc July 2.

I hate this waiting game. FUBC!!!!

  I hope all is well....

I need to catch up with I am behind again!!

Carla

Anonymous

KathyL, there's a Lymphedema center at my hospital run by an MD with 2 certified lymphedema PTs. I told DP last night that I want to give this just a couple of days with self-treatment of the cording/stretching. If there is no (or insufficient) improvement, I'll go to a PT.

I have to have this arm up over my head comfortably by next Friday ... my Rad Sim, so I'm not going to waste time on something that might not be working.

D1 thanks for the exercise description. You described it perfectly. 

WVGirl, sure hope that lump turns out to be nothing serious. AC whomps those hormone-negative cancers, so try not to worry about it too much. I know, easier said than done. Hang tough ... whatever it is, you can fight it.  

SISKimberly

Good Morning Ladies,

Well, dinner was a huge success. I poached a Dover filet of sole in 2 cups water, ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup organic salt free butter, 1 cup chopped fresh basil from our garden, 4 sprigs of rosemary from our garden, sea salt and white pepper. I also made butternut squash with organic Dijon mustard and lemon sauce, broccolini, and a salad. We had organic strawberries and blueberries with organic plain yogurt sprinkled with nutmeg for dessert. And Carol, may I say that your pinot, which we finished last night, was outstanding with the flavors of the squash.

The dh admitted he was acting like a jerk the other day and cried when reading the sentiment I’d written in the card I gave him. He told me that he went onto a site for husbands with women dealing with cancer a while ago and the posts weren’t current and no one responded to the men who did post. He thinks maybe men just need to get it out and aren’t sure how to really support eachother. Dh told me he doesn’t need to talk to other guys who know what it’s like when I told him he could come here and post on the Friends and Family thread, but if that is true, then why did he seek out the site he visited?  I guess it’s hard for him to admit the extent of how difficult this has really been on him. His biggest fear now is, “Is this really over?”  I told him that thought is perfectly normal and that we survivors feel that, too, but that we can’t let that consume us…I am alive and healthy today and plan to be for a very long time.

Anyway, we ended the evening with a nice bath, a glass of wine, and candlelight. Note to self: bathtub looks bigger than it really is.

Thanks all for your support over the PMS issue and the drought.

I have my appt. with my primary doc today for my pap. I’m going to ask him if he’ll monitor my hormones for me and get me into physical therapy for the cording and swelling that is still under my arm.

Julie – What a wonderful day it sounds like you had on the boat for Father’s Day. And, I am glad to hear the foobies are less painful.

D1- Ohhhh, poor puppy!!!!  When we were kids we had a little beagle terrier named Queenie who would just cower next to the toilet bowl during a storm. It was so sad to see her so scared. 

Nice cars for young girls…I didn’t get my first car until after my son was born at aged 22, and it wasn’t much to look at. Guess I’m making up for it with my red convertible top ‘stang now.

YUMMY sounding sandwich. I’m glad I’m feeling up to cooking more. I really do enjoy it.

Kathy- I’ll bet the dh just loved his CD case and gummy fish card. I can just picture the kids anticipation of giving him the treasures they had made. “ Is it Father’s Day yet? Can we give him our presents, yet?”  Soooo cute.

I’ll have to consider that middle of the night sleeping aid next time I find myself wide awake at 1am.  I know my dh would love that.

Carol- Good for you celebrating on Father’s Day the men in your life and being done with chemo!!!!!  Getting to work by 9am isn’t so bad considering you could have just not gone at all.

Yeah, the comment about my arms was pretty funny especially when I pictured myself lying on my back like a turned over turtle unable to right myself. (ROM isn't great, can't support any weight on arms, no pressure on chest- gentle hugs-, and have a heck of a time rolling over to my sides) LOL

Hope you got some quality sleep last night.

Carla- So good to hear from you. WhooHoo on being done and not having as bad of reaction to the last one. # 4 and #5 were really hard for me, too, then #6 seemed to be so much better comparatively speaking.

I know the 27th seems like a long way off, but it’s just around the corner. Waiting and wondering SUCK for sure!!!!  I’ll keep my fingers and toes crossed that the lump is nothing.  Will you have your surgery once you find out what is going on?

LJ13 – I’m totally checking out the link you gave us for lyrics gone wrong.  Hope your cording issues resolve quickly, from what D1 says, the ole arm is going to be in an uncomfortable position, and if it isn’t working now, that position isn’t going to help. Good luck. Glad your hospital has a good lymphodema unit.

OK, I’m off to my doctor’s appt. The maids come today. It’s been confirmed. WhooHoo.  I’m also having lunch with the twinsis and my dad, who is coming up from San Francisco to do a photography job for my twinsis’ company.

Take care all,
SIS Kimberly

SISKimberly

Back from my day...and I waltzed into the docs office today only to have the receptionist say, "Um, Kimberly, your appointment is tomorrow."   Oh...oops.  So I went to Panera and got a breakfast sandwich and a decaf to go, came home to eat and watched The View, then met my twinsis and my dad for lunch...Thai.  Dad took pictures for my twinsis' company's new marketing campaign, and I went through a vertical file drawer and purged files into the shredding bin. It was bring your family to work day...or so her colleagues thought. HaHaHa

Doesn't look like things have been hoppin' this afternoon, which means we are all living our lives and checking in more likely in the morning before the day begins or after the day has winded down.  Life may be returning to a more normal swing, eh?

My house is so clean!!!!!  I so loved coming home to a clean house!!!!

I'll check in with you all in the morning before my real doc's appt.

SIS Kimberly 

Determined1

No greeting tonight, just my dismay that KathyL, our youngest Jewel, is experiencing the "drought."  Life is a bitch.

Carol, so glad to read you "slept in."  You are always on the go and sometimes we all need to do some resting for our mental health, if nothing else.  My galley time yielded some kickass sandwiches, if I may say so myself.  Dd even liked the roasted sweet potato/pear recipe.  Shall I admit that I got both out of a Martha Stewart cookbook???  I'm not a big MS fan, but dh got me her cookbook for Christmas (no one knew what to get a soon-to-be-chemo patient) as I've been expressing a new found interest in cooking over the past couple of years.  I've made a couple of things out of it and everything, to my surprise, has been good.  Maybe that time in the pokey did our Martha some good!

Oh man, and now our newlywed is in the dreaded "drought."  What is up in the universe?????

Hey Carla, keep positive about your cyst.  I had a couple of scares myself during chemo (even had to have another needle biopsy-I sat in the car and cried afterwards...yep, the non-crier...).  It was all okay for me.  So keep the faith.  And yep, waiting sucks the most.  FUBC, girlfriend.  Let us know how it goes.

LJ, Kathy's right, see a specialist.  You have no excuse now that you've come clean about the availability so close to you.   In fact, if you don't go, I may have to drive up to Ballmer and drag your almost-hairy head off to see a legu.  I'll repeat myself-I'm not kidding.

SIS Kimberly, I can't believe you cooked Dover sole for dinner last night.  I'm watching the Food Network (well, not really) while I type this and they're cooking Dover sole!!!  Coinky dinky!  Just disappointed that the poaching juice didn't include any white wine...

I really love the honesty dh showed you.  My dh still feels like it all has to be internalized and not shared.  Sometimes I'm not sure he realizes what our family has endured over the last year.  You and Greg are light years ahead and I applaud Greg's try to reach out to other caregivers.  Unfortunately, he did not find the January Jewel equivalent and is having to forge his own way.  Give him room (I know you will) and do your best to help him find his way.  (I really wish I were writing this to myself.)

Drought is ended????  (Perhaps the tub wasn't too small after all!)

Thank you for looking into seeing someone for the cording (LJ, are you still reading this??)

A TURTLE!!??  OMG.  I'm LOL!

Yay!!  A clean house!

So today my dh had a thermage treatment to his face/neck.  He had to pop a couple of Vicodin to manage the pain and has talked non-stop about how cute the nurse was ever since.  Even college girl is laughing about it.  He keeps mentioning how nice her blond hair was.  I'm trying not to take it personally.  He's in a drug stupor.  Asshole.

D1

wvgirl

Oh I treated myself to a massage today. I left early from work. It was SO NICE.

I have a bladder infection now. Called nurse they called me in cipro.

Kimberly  I will have surgery on July 10. I was advised by surgeon that a lump was all I would need. But after yesterdays visit it will now depend on MRI. As the song goes the waiting is the hardest part.

LJ , D1 and Kimberly thanks for the positive vibes.

Jenn51

Good Evening Jewels,

Miss a day, miss a lot! How did I get this far behind again. Let's see.....

I was at the hosp. Tues. & Thurs. nights, had a funeral calling for a co-workers dad & had the 3-yo dgs Fri. night. My #2ds came in from Milw. for F-Day's weekend & he & I took my mom out to lunch on Sat.  Sun. was over to ds#4's place for dinner prepared by him & his cousin. I left dh there & went back to the hospital & came back in time for dinner & a squirt gun fight with all of the boys, big & small.

I'm sorry to say there is no change in Tyler except they have had to sedate him more because of his breathing. He's fighting the respirator or something & Dr. said he could "blow a lung", whatever that means. Bff doesn't ask all of the questions I would, but I also know she is exhausted.

Rad #12 of 33 was today. I'm starting to ache deep in the tissue under my nipple and underarm. All normal they say. I'm noticing big hugs like those given by sons & nephews bring on tender moments too. Rad doc says my skin looks good & to keep up the green tea & cream.

I'm trying to go into work in the am, leave for rads at 10:00 & stop by home for skin tx when I'm done. Also maybe a short tip back in the recliner for a recharge & then back to work for the rest of the day. Makes for long days & I'm really tired at the end, but I figure I have to do this to regain my stamina. I'm really getting sick of this stuff. I want my job back, my normal duties, but dh says I shouldn't try until rads are over & "I'm myself again" I'm starting to hate that phrase. And truthfully I don't have time to do it now, I'm too busy fixing all of the screw ups that those other 2 bimbos are making. That is all I'm doing these days. I had a small melt down at work today I was just so tired of cleaning up after them. Enough of that, thank you for letting me vent.

I am going to have to get by with just a few shout outs to the most recent posts. I have to get off here & get a few things done. I've read it all & done silent prayers, whoohoos etc to each of you as I read you posts.

D1, Your meal sounds scrumptious! I'm still stuck in that middle that if I work 1/2 - 3/4 of a day I don't have the energy to get fancy in the kitchen. But I will. It's hard to get excited about food when I know I should be dieting.

Kimberly, Count me in the drought. I'm in the same no-libido boat as Carol. And being tired all of the time doesn't help.

Carla, Bummer on the bump. It really makes you wonder if we can develop another non-cyst (can't bear to say the "T" word right now) while we're on chemo what's next. You will be in my prayers that your surgeon's gut feeling is wrong. I know the 27^th is a ways off & if you're like me you're not very patient but try to find something to distract yourself.

Here's another resolution to stay caught up.

kris60

whoo hoo  I'm last  grrrrr  9 down, 3 to go....... my tongue is fried atm, lets just call them puffs.  guess i'm one of the few who get mouth sores from taxol.*sighs* it's great being unique   and some minor neuopathy in my little piggy toes, fingers are tender, but still have my dexterity.           found this earlier though, and it's about time

tootles

FDA cracks down on 'cancer cures'

http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/06/17/cancer.fraud.ap/index.html

golfer779

Good Evening All,

Thank god for new days, woke up this morning after about 10 hours of slightly interrupted sleep (first too hot, than too cold) to a much better morning. Been going til now, with work, then off to golf with a couple of gal friends. I've been kinda dogging the golfing in place of walking lately, tonight I got a little of both walking the course.

I just got home and went to the mailbox to pull out what is usually junk mail and bills and had a very happy surprise with a gift from my "PS" (I mean "SP" ... I won't give away who had the carryover chemo brain moment). All I will say is that it is from a great lady who has a lot of things on her plate and to take the time to mail out a very meaningful gift is appreciated. I received a very symbolic angel figurine appropriately named "COURAGE", it was created by an artist by the name of Susan Lordi, (which some of you may be familiar with). I went to her website with curiosity and its well worth checking out. So "SP" thank you so much, my angel of courage will be displayed in our home with the thought of all of my new found friends and all of the courage we have all shared with one another.

Will try to do a few quick shout out before my dh comes home. I probably at some point need to not bury my head in the "puter" when we should be sharing atleast a few moments together in the eves. Seems as of late (which would be the last 8 months) chatting about a cancer walk, the gals on-line, a doc appt ... yada, yada, is what I have bouncing around my pea brain, and he has had job interviews, a new job, kids and colleges, wanting to go golfing, etc. on his mind. He has been so supportive in my journey thus far, I'm hoping he can hang in there for atleast another couple months, atleast til I do the 3 Day in Sept. Its hard not being quite in sync with each other, yet for right now my brain still cannot quite turn off this whole ordeal.

Okay, now that I just took another 10 minutes to express the last I'll move on ...

Kris, hang in there gal ... your getting so close to that light at the end of the tunnel. Bummer on the mouth sores, I think we all heard of that possible se with not too many of us getting them. Sorry you have to be the poster child for that one. "Heck", I don't even think that D1 had mouth sores!!!

Jennifer, on a positive note, your more than 1/3 the way through your rads. Sounds like your dealing with so much right now, your body is probably going to need some little breaks both mentally and physically as well over the next few weeks. Your dh may have something with the "until your back to yourself again" bit. In the meantime try to take the best care of yourself as you can, remember just a little exercise can be good (a short walk, maybe a little stretching), and plenty of nutritional food. Sounds like you have the "lube the boob" part down. I'm no expert in the field of rads, but I've been reading intently from our fellow Jewels, and many have done pretty well with some of the above recommendations. We will all be back to our "old/young" selves in due time!

Carla, a massage ... you go girl!!! Sounds like the perfect thing to do for a little well deserved relaxation for the body, mind and spirit. Hey did somebody not tell your bladder we don't have time for this? Lets hope that your infec is short lived. I'll be sending continued positive thoughts for a lump. to nab what needs to be taken care of and get you on the road to recovery.

D1, nope would have never guessed you'd be cooking from a MS cookbook. Hey sounds like she's been a hit in your "galley".

Did get a kick out of the "newlywed" comment. When we married we called ourselves the "oldyweds". Although things have slowed down in that department over the past 10 years, a complete "drought" was not what either of us would have anticipated. YIKES!!!

Bear with the drug stuppored asshole!!!

Kimberly, sounds like things in your house got right back on track. I could only imagine with your gift of writing that you topped off your eve with a card for Greg. You have a very special knack for saying just the right things, atleast from what we read. I could only wish to have half the gift of gab of you to really express what I ‘m feeling.

Today was my cleaning ladies visit as well, must say it is a treat to come home knowing that the house had the once over.

Okay, had me cracking up too with the visual of the turtle. So turtles must like warm bath water????!!!!

Ooops on the wrong day for your dr appt, so are you planning on discussing ovary removal at all?

LJ, sounds like you got your "pep talk" about PT from D1. I would have to say I had very good luck with my PT, although I'd have to admit it would not hurt to be doing my stretches/exercises on a more regular basis. I definitely needed my arms to be able to go over my head in my sim. I didn't realize how tight the CT machine really is, in fact they set me all up, and it was too tight to fit through the machine so they had to readjust me with my arms a bit more upright than out to the sides to fit.

Okay so I ended up with more time to gab than I thought, the dh won't be home until I'm fast asleep tonight.

A very pleasant eve to all ...

Carol

JulieK_11_30_07

Hello Jewels --- I've had a crazy, busy day/night! My cleaning lady called last night and wanted to schedule for tomorrow instead of Thursday. Considering what a MESS my house was, ds and I spent the better part of today getting things picked up and ready to be cleaned. She then called later today and said we were back on for Thursday instead of Wednesday! Oh well - at least it's ready for her now! I even got crazy and actually cleaned out my CAR!!! Ds got a call from a friend and he wanted him to come over to spend the night tonight and the day with him tomorrow. We had plans to go to my niece's softball game tonight (about 45 minutes away), but he's been so good about helping out and not complaining lately, I let him go to his friend's. So, I went to my niece's game by myself - met the bil/sil/mil/fil all there! They were 5-6 year old girls playing - hilarious!!!! Didn't get home until after 9:00 tonight.

I still have several things to do before I hit the hay so I don't have much time for shout-outs tonight. One thing - glad to hear the "drought" isn't only in the Midwest!!

LJ - thanks for the lyrics link! I get it now!! Sure hope your cording gets better and the exercises help.

SISKimberly - you outdid yourself, girl!!! I wouldn't even know where to begin with a recipe like that!! BTW - I've seen you and I think Carol, mention Broccolini before --- what is that?? Never heard of it in these parts! Glad you got to spend the day with your twinsis and dad - hope it was a nice day.

WVGirl - hang in there - I know the waiting stinks. I'm sending lots of positive vibes your way! Sure hope the meds start working quickly on your bladder infection.

Jenn - glad to hear your friend's son is hanging in there. He and his family have been in my prayers. Hope you enjoyed your time with dgs!

Well, girls - I need to get some work done. Heading to school tomorrow for some curriculum development time. One of my teachers just had a baby girl and I'm also going to get to see her tomorrow too --- I'm so excited!!

Hope everyone has a great Wednesday - I'll try to check in tomorrow night!

Julie

KathyL

Busy day for me.  I have to leave in a few to get the kids.  Went to my mailbox earlier though and had a box of chocolates from my SP!  Love it!  And not just any chocolates mind you, but Godiva truffles.  Yummy!  I ate a PB one and am considering hoarding the rest away without telling anyone here about them.  Thank you SP!! (BTW, I must be stupid, b/c I can't figure out who you are at all).

Carol:  Party on, dude (ette)!  Sounds like you had fun the other eve.  So maybe a little, too much fun, eh?  We'll if BC didn't get us, I doubt some overindulgence here and there will do much worse.

Speaking of which, I may be the youngest Jewel, but you are the newly-est wedded (I'll just neglect to remember you've been together for 10 years, so I can pawn this off on you).  No "drought" for you!  You should be getting it on like the Energizer Bunny (especially with your energy level these days)!  Hee hee.

Carla:  Glad you can take part in the Relays.  They are such a cool, uplifting event.  Hoping the lump is benign.  I agree with LJ's sentiments that AC does do a number on your type of cancer, so try not to fret.  As my dear therapist always says" do not invite trouble", and focus on the positive so your body has no choice but to follow suit!

Hope the bladder infection is fixed by you abx.  Those are such a pain (literally).

Excuse my chemo-brain... but did I miss something?  Did you have chemo first, and then your having a lumpectomy in July?  I guess I'd thought you had surgery first...

Kimberly:  Reading your dinner posts sounds like a restaurant menu!  Yum yum!

Glad dh came around for you.  I think mine also has his moments where he wonders if this is really over.  Who wouldn't?... I know I still shove that thought to the back of my mind frequently some days.  But like you, I try to focus on the here and now, and that I'm cured.

Been thinking of you today as I interviewed my last maid service.  I've narrowed it down to 2 companies and will let them fight it out as to who can give me the better price.  I like them both.  Hope to have them start at the very beginning of July and do every other week.  Yippee!

D1:  hee hee.  Sorry to disappoint you on the "East Coast drought"... I'll have to tell dh that I need to step it up a little as I'm letting the group down (grin).  He'd be more than happy to keep the quota up for all the Jewels'dhs, I on the other hand am more excited about a good night's sleep these days (hahaha).

And damn those blonde nurses (I can say that since I am--- was?-one.  Who knows what the heck color hair I'll have in the next few weeks?)!  LOL on the last paragraph of your post!!

Jenn:  You sound like you've been busy.  It is SO hard to not push yourself too much, huh? 

I hope things improve for Tyler.  I can't imagine being conscious enough to feel/fight the vent.  The only time I was on one was with my mastectomy, and I don't remember a thing (thank God).

Kris:  Hang in there!  We're all pulling you through the next 3 weeks.

Determined1

You have me drooling over the massage, WVgirl!  I really hope you were able to chill out and just enjoy it.  (And now a bladder infection????)

I read about your weekend, Jenn, and I couldn't keep up.  My head was spinning!  I hope you were able to recharge in the recliner today.  Your schedule leaves little room for you.  Try to build some in wherever you can.

Three to go, Kris!!!  That's SO great!  Hang in there.  (I had awful mouthsores on Taxotere-Taxol's cousin drug.  Try rinsing with baking soda and water as many times a day as you can manage it.) 

I know how you feel about needing to find a balance in your life, Carol.  I sometimes find that I cross my dh by sitting at the computer, all engrossed in whatever's going on here that day, ignoring him and his needs.  I suspect my cancer card doesn't carry the same weight around the house anymore, which is probably a good thing.

(Yes, Carol, I had mouth sores...)

Yeah, my drugged asshole got up this morning and I told him how he waxed eloquently about his nurse.  I told him he even liked her hair.  He said, ick, her hair was not pretty at all (over-processed straw is closer to the truth).  I guess I still like him.

What a mom, Julie.  I would've done the same thing for my kids.  Way to go.

Okay, Kathy, who would give it to the energizer bunny?  Have you looked at that thing?  Naw, I predict a drought for that creature, too. J

My SP came through today, too.  A coffee mug that looks for all the world like the garden I wish I had and some lavender tea.  I may actually plant an herb in the mug and put it out where I'll see it every day.  It will make me smile.  Thanks SP!

Speaking of my garden, I came up with a great idea for college girl.  I told her I'd pay her to weed all of my beds (with a bonus to be given if it's all done before she starts her internship on Monday).  She was out there today, going at it.  And every once in a while I'd hear a squeal that would curl your hair (if I had enough to curl).  Turns out she's afraid of worms!!!!  I NEVER knew that!  In a very wicked mom way, I lol every time she cut one loose!  I can be so naughty!

It's 7p-I think I'll head to the fridge and pour me a glass of the wine I opened last night.

Congrats to Wendy, who finished up today!!!!  FUBC, ladies!

D1

wvgirl

I have heard that sometimes there are some that are on A/C first and there tumor did not respond to it. Has anyone heard of this ?

KathyL I did have chemo first surgery date is  going to be July 10.

I have been having a lot of gas . Silly me had thought is was because of the hemorrhoid surgery in Oct. But now I know it's the chemo...LOL

Jenn51

Hi JJ's,

I followed thru on my promise to stay caught up (at least for today).

D1, we must have been on the same wave length, actually you & my dh. Ds #4 came over today to weed my flower beds. I may get to plant something yet this year. He was working some money he owes us. I don't know how much dh promised to forgive, but it was worth it. They haven't looked so good since we moved into the house.

At the clinic there has been a huge basket on the receptionist counter, prize for a silent auction with the proceeds going to BC. It caught my eye & I've been watching the bids. Today was the last day & I won it. There's a big pink ribbon blanket, shampoo & conditioner, 2 books, an Avon gift pack, socks, scarves, lotion & more. Also a gift cert. for a massage. Now I don't have to turn green every time one of you guys talks about getting a massage. I can't wait to schedule it. That was spirit lifter!

I've spent some time tonight trying to find out where the moon will rise. It is supposed to appear to be exceptionally large. I guess I'm going to drive out to the corn fields to get a better view. This is something my Daddy & I would have done & I know he will be there with me tonight. Heaven knows dh won't, he's already asleep.

Kris, I had some mouth sores. Biotene mouthwash really helped me but I had to use it faithfully. It doesn't taste that good but it doesn't burn.

I'm anxious to check out the web site you mentioned.

Rad doc said everyday on the table is probably making my already painful back even worse. She gave me some muscle relaxers & said to take them regularly for a few days. I think I can already feel an improvement.

Tomorrow I go for a MUGA scan after rads so I will be on the go all day. With a little time to kill in the middle I may go to Joann's. I haven't roamed around there in so long. I need to get different flowers for the saddle on Daddy's headstone. I have always gone out there on Father's Day & cleaned his stone & changed the flowers. I didn't make it Sun. & it really made me feel bad but I think he would understand. I'll make it this weekend.

Julie, I can picture you scurrying around the house getting ready for the cleaning lady a day early. Been there, done that. Then all that work for nothing. Remember you have to leave a little dirt so you can tell she has cleaned. 

Carol, I know he may be right but I don't have to like it. I don't like thinking I'm not myself now. I know it inside but would like to hide that part from the rest of the world. But thanks, you always seem to know just what to say.

Better go. I'm thinking of each & every one of you & wishing for good nights sleep, happy days and high spirits.

golfer779

Whew ... got this idea to start at page 1 of this monster post and save into another folder all of the pictures.  Been sitting here for over 2 hours, yep my neck is killing me from poor posture.  There are approximately 75 pics throughout the post.  And yes, some of us definitely liked to share more than others!!! 

I'd like to somehow make a collage of the pics, and would really like to get one from every Jewel.  I'm planning on carrying a quickie version (something I can slap together in the next couple eves) to take with me this Sat while walking in the 5K Race for the Cure in Seattle.   Hopefully over the next few weeks, a few more faces will show up on the post and I can add them in and then I'll make copies and send it out.  Just what you all would like a collage of a bunch of "bald" women, and one with a pretty dorky looking "do"!!!

Looks like a pretty quiet day on the post, I'm hoping that its a good thing.  Just read D1's post and I think I'll join her for a nipper of wine myself!!!  I need something to loosen up this neck ache.

Later, Carol  

golfer779

Whew ... got this idea to start at page 1 of this monster post and save into another folder all of the pictures.  Been sitting here for over 2 hours, yep my neck is killing me from poor posture.  There are approximately 75 pics throughout the post.  And yes, some of us definitely liked to share more than others!!! 

I'd like to somehow make a collage of the pics, and would really like to get one from every Jewel.  I'm planning on carrying a quickie version (something I can slap together in the next couple eves) to take with me this Sat while walking in the 5K Race for the Cure in Seattle.   Hopefully over the next few weeks, a few more faces will show up on the post and I can add them in and then I'll make copies and send it out.  Just what you all would like a collage of a bunch of "bald" women, and one with a pretty dorky looking "do"!!!

Looks like a pretty quiet day on the post, I'm hoping that its a good thing.  Just read D1's post and I think I'll join her for a nipper of wine myself!!!  I need something to loosen up this neck ache.

Later, Carol  

SISKimberly

OK, so I really went to the doc today for my pap and to check in. I really like my doc. He asked if I was done with treatment, and I told him I was done, but that my onc wanted me to do rads and Tamox, which I declined to do. My doc said, it doesn’t matter what he wants, it is your body.
Oh Yeah!!!! 

So, got my pap, should have results next week. Also went in for a blood test of my FHS levels to see if I am in menopause. I’ve been spotting since my exam, but the doc said the exam made me bleed a little since they really get into the cervix to get cells. So, my fingers and toes are crossed that my numbers show I am in menopause, or at least heading in that direction.

Doc also asked me how I felt and was really surprised I wasn’t on any kind of medications at all. He told me I looked great and that my last labs were all normal, so he saw no reason that I wouldn’t live to be 100. I love that he’s my cheerleader!!!  Of course he wanted to know when I would have my next scan, and I told him that all my onc told me he’d do as far as monitoring me is blood tests.  He told me he could do blood work in his office and to ask my onc point blank when I would get another full body scan. I get the feeling he will order it for Dec. my year anniversary,if my onc doesn’t.

I also got a script to see a physical therapist about my cording and swelling. I have an appt. on Friday June 27th.

I tell ya, I got more done today than with my onc in the past 6 months as far as things I needed or wanted done.

Met my son for lunch then went in search of more modern desk choices at our new Scandinavian Furniture store. A few possibilities.  I love my roll top…used to be my grandfathers, but it is just so big.  We’ll see.

D1- Thanks for the support for my dh. Yeah, I’m pretty lucky that he’s willing to eventually let things bubble up and then share them with me.  No, the drought didn’t end. The bath relaxed us both so much we just crawled into bed and snuggled to sleep. 

So, how’s the dh doing with the Thermage? Has the pain lessened some?  Was the Vicodine giving him an uninhibited release to talk about the cute nurse or is he still talking about her?  My dh would so be doing the same thing if he had a cute nurse assisting him. NO, don’t take it personally. He’s with the woman he loves…that nurse is just window dressing for merchandise he can’t have…you know the feeling when you see something in a very expensive shop…you admire it, but do you really want it? Not really.

Carla- OK, so either way, surgery is still on the books, and I’m with D1, it’s probably nothing to worry about.
Keep us posted.

Good for you treating yourself to a massage!!!1

Jenn- WOW, no wonder you’re exhausted with everything you’ve been doing the past few days.  I’m sorry that your friend’s ds isn’t doing better and hope for her sake that this doesn’t drag out too long whichever way it goes.

As far as work, does the supervisor get that you’re fixing mess ups and nothing more? It seems these two gals need serious retraining or to be fired.

Hang in there,Jenn.  We’re here to listen no matter what the mood.

Kris – Only three more to go!!! You are so close. I too had mouth sores with Taxotere that lasted about a week. I feel for ya.

Carol – Bless our dh’s for being so understanding about our need to chat with the gals, do our walks etc…  And, I think you express yourself very well. I love that you personally have called several Jewels to provide your personal touch…me being one of them.

I didn’t discuss ovary removal with my doc yet as I want to see what my menopausal status is at present.  If the ovaries are shutting down, then there is no need to remove them in my opinion.

Julie- Hmmm, another cleaning service snafu amongst the Jewel crowd, eh? Like you said, though, at least the house is ready and you got your car cleaned out as well with the leftover motivation. Bravo. 

Broccolini is baby broccoli basically.

I’m headed to school tomorrow as well. The boss called and asked if I’d look at the three applications for the LA position we’re flying.  I told him I would, and he wants to talk schedule. I told him I’m happy with my schedule, so I’m not sure what he means. The new kid is going to do all 7th grade LA and one 8th , I believe, according to the schedule board at last look.  I know it’s a lot for a newbie to have two preps, but we all have two preps, so am curious what he has in mind.

Kathy- Whoohoo on having two services fighting for your business and starting in short order. I love not having to clean my house!!!!

Thanks for the dinner kudos.  I don’t cook like that all the time, but when I do cook, I try to do something fun. Tonight is leftovers for me.

LOL on the not letting the Jewels down in the nookie dept and your dh being more than willing to help out.

I’ll check in tomorrow. Hope everyone has a wonderful night’s sleep tonight and wakes to a fabulous sun=shiny day.

SIS Kimberly

Determined1

Hey Gang.  I logged on early this morning because I want to thank Carol for the Mariners.  Every day when I look at the baseball standings and think the Nationals suck, I look over to the AL and see the Mariners are even worse!!!  Another gift from our thoughtful Carol. 

Oh WVgirl, do I know about chemo gas!  It was like old people's gas because it was always noisy and could not be restrained.  My poor family.

Way to go on scoring the gift basket, Jenn!  It sounds like just what you need.  Enjoy your pampering when you get a chance to fit it in to that impossible schedule!  Oh, I totally feel your back pain.  I'm convinced that rads exacerbated my rotator cuff issue.  I'm excited to go to my le therapy today as the rotator specialist is going to drop in and show me some exercises I can do at home while I await my July 1 appointment with her.  I need to get this resolved.  Between the hot flashes and shoulder pain I'm not sleeping much at all.

A collage sounds like fun, Carol!  If you can do it electronically, I'd love a copy!

SIS Kimberly-I read your first paragraph and smiled.  Thank goodness for your gyn.  And WTG on getting the script for the arm.  I won't remember when you're going in (I can't even keep up with my schedule), but I want to hear what they have to say, so please give a full report.

Dh seems to be fully recovered from the thermage and the effects of the Vicodin (they also gave him some Ativan, so no wonder he was out of it).  He did mention the nurse again this morning, but told me he was most impressed with her tiny body, knowing that she was a 40-year-old mother of three.  I told him I didn't notice her body so much, but thought she had a smiling, kindly face that had had a lot of work done to it-didn't he see the wrinkles on her neck????  We laughed a little and I told him he didn't know how good he had it.  I may be 50 and have white/bald hair, but I'm holding up well, thank you, without any help from a plastic surgeon.  Hopefully, we won't be talking about her anymore.  Geesh.  As for the effects of the tx, he shouldn't expect to notice anything for 3-6 months.  Apparently, it takes that long for the collagen to wake up again.  By then, he'll have moved on to whatever procedures he's having done next (I think some retin-A and some kind of skin peel is in the cards-sounds awful to me).

Oh, and thanks for the wishes for a sunshiney day.  It's absolutely beautiful here this morning and I credit you completely!

Off to start my day.

D1

Cathy-CA

Once again I'm apologizing for being MIA.  The good news is youngest son's graduation was last night, so we've had grad activities this week.  Bad news is there have been major problems with my oldest, so I've been busy with that.  Throw in rads, Herceptin infusion, miscellaneous doc appts and tests and it just seems like by the time I do everything I have to do, I haven't had time to check in.  Has anyone else noticed that every doc appt seems to spawn tests?  I don't know whether it's an age thing or a cancer thing, but I'm getting tired of being poked, prodded, filmed and scanned.

I'll be done this time next week with the whole breast rads and moving onto the boosts.  Saw the doc yesterday and the comment was that I was doing surprisingly well for how far along I am.  I'm a little pink under the arm and the breast, but not too bad. 

I'll try to catch up with the posts, but it looks like activity is down.  Guess that's a good sign that we're all starting to move back to our normal lives and not having everything centered on our cancer treatment.

PAlady

Hello Jewels,

Julie -I think those miniature rottweilers are adorable. I am really not a big dog person. A lot of people are shocked that we have Colby as he is a big lanky thing, but he is adorable. Sounds like you have a busy next few days coming up with your walks etc.

WVgirl - Glad your last round went well. I think you need to think positive about the lump too. I keep you in thought/prayer. The waiting really sucks. Hope your bladder infection has cleared up.

Kimberly - Happy Anniversary to you. You are practically a newlywed, too! Glad you and dh were able to smooth things over. I think my dh must be in the minority as he is one to not think about the possibility of recurrence etc. I think part of it is because I was lucky enough to do so well with my treatments and side effects. I am glad your gyno is in tune with you. I have my first checkup on the 3^rd with mine. She is the same way for me.

D1 - Your comments on dh are very funny. I went to my regular bc support group last night and they had  a lymphadema  therapist speaking. She is the only one certified in our city. She said they don't think women who have had lymph nodes taken out should have massage done above the waist because of the chance of getting lymphadema. What are your legu's views on that?  Dh and I are going to Grove Park Inn in NC at the beginning of August and I plan on having some treatments.

Jenn - Your father's day squirt gun fight sounds fun! I went and played lazer tag with my boys once and it was a blast - gets the adrenalin going. Hang in there. You will be done with rads before you know it. I found that my days flew by doing them. Your skin will heal up pretty quickly, too. Congrats on the basket win!

Carol - I have been found on the computer a bit too much lately too. Between that, talking on the phone, and reading/researching it's amazing how much time I feel like I spend on this.  I'd love a copy of your collage, too!

Cathy - Sorry to hear about the troubles with your ds. Hopefully he can get passed that soon. Glad you are almost done with your rads and with few se's to boot.

I went to the onc yesterday and got my scrip for tamox. I will go fill it today but will probably start on Sunday or Monday. I don't have any hot flashes yet and have a few parties, etc. this weekend. Not sure how fast they will start, but don't want to be caught off guard by them either. After one month he wants me to start getting shots to have my ovaries shut down. Anyone else doing this? I asked him about having a baseline for my hormone levels and he's not doing that. I am going to have my gyno do that when I see her on the 3rd. He doesn't think insurance would pay to have an ooph since I was BRCA negative.

He has also sent me to have my hips and thighs x-rayed. As I thought he is still saying this not an se of the taxotere. Thinks it might be arthritis. Even if it is, I know it is from the taxotere. I was able to run before chemo and never had a problem. I took the past two weeks off from any exercise and the pain has felt better. Got on the tm on Monday morning and just walked for 30 minutes. My hip joints and thigh bones were sore till Wednesday morning.  So, another dr appointment for next week. Ugh.

Have a great day all!

SISKimberly

Good Morning Jewels,

Apparently, I missed some posts last night when I checked back in…oops…

D1- OMG, you crack me up.  Your telling of dh’s ick comment about the nurse he was drooling over while drugged was priceless.  See, told you he didn’t want what was in that window. I was also rolling on the floor with your description of dd screaming over worms and your evil delight in her squeals. LOL

Carla- Me too on the chemo gas except mine wasn’t loud and letting go whenever it felt the need…thankfully. I was able to keep it under control with GasX.  Glad that part of the journey is over for all of us…except Kris, who is soooo close to being done. 

We’re standing at the finish line waiting for you Kris and cheering you on,so no worries that you’ll be left behind.

Jenn- Wow, your flower beds were weeded, and you won the auction basket you’ve been eyeing, and there’s a massage gift certificate in the basket along with all kinds of others goodies…WhooHoo!!!!  Life is good, isn’t it?

Carol – Love the collage idea!!!!  See, you’re always thinking of ways to brighten a Jewels day.

OK, now I can move on to the posts after my last post. Silly me.

D1- I’m keep telling Carol what a giver she is…

Actually, my doc isn’t my gyn,but my primary care provider. He’s in his 60’s and took over his father’s practice when his father retired. The nurse at my rad consult was a patient of my doc’s father she said.  He’s a real small town doc who does stitches and injections…heard him ask his nurse to bring him several cc’s of Decadron yesty…yuck…I felt for the poor person getting that shot. Anyway, he’s a great doc.

Glad you and the dh could share a laugh about the nurse this morning. All the pics I’ve seen of you are GORGEOUS!!!! Heck, ya your man’s got it good.  So this Thermage just stimulates collagen which will fill in the scars, or plump them out? Oh, I had a friend who did a chemical peel. Ouch is right, but her skin definitely looked smoother and younger.

Hey, it’s sunshiney and beautiful here this morning, too. Man…who knew I had such power as to sway the sun god?

Cathy – Man, you have been a busy girl. Sorry to hear you’re older son is having issues. Hope those resolve soon.
Congrats on the younger son’s graduation. Isn’t it crazy to think he’s already old enough to be moving out into the world?

Way to go on your breast doing so well with rads. I’m thinking your salt water pool is doing the trick along with regular lubes.

What scans have you had since starting rads other than the ones they needed to make sure they had your positioning right?  My onc hasn’t and won’t be scheduling a scan anytime soon according to our last conversation.

Norma – I’m glad you’re asking your gyn to do the hormone check. Onc’s don’t seem to want to deal with anything that doesn’t directly effect their focus.

Your hip and leg pain is definitely from chemo. That’s a side effect. Chemo can also deplete bone mass. Tamox can cause muscle and joint pain as well, so be aware of that potential se.  I just read an article regarding the se’s of Tamox not being fully disclosed in the same way by all parties involved, so if you’ve not had a particular symptom prior to bc, and all of a sudden it shows up, I’m thinkin’ it’s related to Tamox. The fact that several gals here are taking it will give you all a way to keep track of se’s like we did with our chemo drugs.

Insurance will have no choice but to pay for an ooph if you develop ovarian cysts as many women seem to do on Tamox.
My girlfriend was only on it for two months and developed cysts. Her gyn told her they can remove her ovaries if they don’t resolve. She also developed a vertigo issue after taking Tamox. Her onc told her that neither the cysts nor the vertigo were Tamox related. Oh, Pleeezzzz.

So, I’m off to meet a gal for lunch and then off to school. When I get home, it’ll will be ironing and packing for Chicago.  OHHHHH, I just scored two tickets to Wicked!!!!

I'll be thinking of you, D1, in response to your dd's worm reaction when I hear the evil witch's laughter. hahaha
Man, we are going to be in entertainment heaven!!!!

TTFN,
SIS Kimberly

Cathy-CA

Kimberly -- first have a wonderful time in Chicago and seeing Wicked.  Maybe scans wasn't the right choice of words, but wasn't sure how else to categorize it.  When I saw the gyno two weeks ago, she wanted a pelvic ultrasound because she felt a fibroid.  So, had to have that done last week.  I need echocardiograms every three months because of the Herceptin so had another one of those recently.  Now, internist wants a bone scan since chemo can mess with your calcium absorption and bones.  It just seems like every time I start a countdown towards being done, a bunch more stuff pops up which keeps the calendar filled with doc appts. 

The surprise for the week (I did see the drought posts) was I had asked gyno for estrogen cream when I saw her.  She gave me a rx, but said not to fill it until I got the okay from onc.  When I saw onc this week, she called me into an exam room to have a discussion on whether or not it made sense to take Tamox!?!?  Apparently, when she carefully went back through the pathology to decide yeah or nay on the cream, she found that the original biopsy had a very slight progesteron positive.  She had the pathologist check the slides (she's very thorough) and confirmed yes, there were a few cells that were progesteron positive.  So, she felt it was worth at least offering me the option of taking Tamox.  After a quick discussion, I told her my feeling was we were chasing fractional percentages of improved outcome and it wasn't worth the risks of the possible side effects.  She concurred and then said I could get the rx filled.  I need to drop that off today, since hubby would appreciate ending the drought.

golfer779

Hi Ladies,

Took off work a touch early, off to buy a retirement gift for our dear friend whom has been a high school counselor for years.  Her last day of work is tomorrow.   We're meeting at 4:00 to go for a walk together, she offered to keep me company on some training walks.  Their home is waterfront, so our path will be beautiful today as the sun is shining.  And lucky us, her dh is cooking dinner for us.  My dh will meet us there after work.  Life is Good!!!

Okay, would really love to get a few more pictures posted if any of you gals would like to share.   Just off the top of my head, I don't believe I saw any pics of ... Therese, LJ, Joan, Shari, Dana, and I know I'm forgeting a few others.  It might be kinda cool to get some current ones with your new "dos".  I know that this will just be memory in the future, but it might still be kinda fun to have a "montage" of the clan to look back upon when we're old and maybe a few of us gray.

Norma, my PT (whom specializes in le), said that as long as they work the area probably its okay.  Meaning they need to start in the arm pit area to get things moving and they work from bad side to good side.  I guess I picture it as a dam in the arm pit area, it needs to be cleared away, then the massage from the hand towards the pit area moves the lymph fluid properly.   I don't think that made that much sense except to me ... I'd definitely be asking yourself what the recommendation is.  Your scaring me gal, first the no alcohol with Tamo question, and now this ... your not leaving much for fun!

Yikes, I'm running out of time here ...

Cathy, Never heard of estrogen cream, I take it if your estrogen positive this would be a "negative"?  

Got your PM, stay strong my friend! 

Gotta go ... thank god not literally for a change!!!!!!

Carol

Jenn51

Hello JJs,

It been another beautiful day in Indiana. I know the other shoe is going to drop anytime. This is the longest spell of nice weather we have had all year. It will probably wait for the weekend because I want to plant some flowers in my newly weeded flower gardens.

I ran in circles today. Rads in the AM at the north clinic & a MUGA in the PM at the east clinic. Not enough time to go back to work in the middle (wasn't that a shame) so I went to JoAnns to browse & the sweeper store for bags. Walked into the mall's food court for some Teriyaki chicken (yum) & then headed for the other clinic for the MUGA. I almost fell asleep on the table I was so pooped. And I'm the one who is afraid to sleep in public.

Carol, I think the idea of the collage is great. See if you can email the .jpg to me when you get it done. The vino does sound good, think I will pour myself a glass while I read & post.

Kimberly, sounds like you have a wonderful doc. I'm glad he is encouraging your medical decisions. Ya know, after your periods are gone for a while, you forget all about having them. But listening to you guys these past few months, I am really glad all of that was over before I declared war on bc.

My supervisor at work is my dh so yes he understands what is going on. It's just that the whole place is in turmoil because of the new software and the in-family fighting between the owner & 2 of his kids who want to take over the business. And they ‘retired' our shop foreman a year & a half ago & haven't been able to find anyone who can run the shop like he could. The son thought it was so easy he could do it himself. NOT! And one of the gals that needs to be fired is the daughter. It's a mess. I just have to hang in there until "I'm myself again" & get everything back in order. It's just that I'm ready to go back to work & yet I hate the shape of the office & the conditions in which I must work. Let's hope your boss is wanting to upset the schedule.

Have fun in Chicago and enjoy ‘Wicked'.

D1, my rad nurse told me that if you had had anything wrong with the arm on the same side as the bc, the rad would cause it to flare up again. I'd say your rotator cuff falls into that catagory.

You are too good, pointing out the nurse's flaws. I don't know if I could have been that quick witted.

Cathy, congrats on your son's graduation. Those are always hectic, yet fun times. I hope that the situation with your other son gets resolved in a positive way.

WhooHoo on being almost done with rads. My calendar date sure looks pretty far out there.

Please let me know if the estrogen cream helps. I miss my libido.

PALady, put my dh on the list with yours. He isn't able to talk about my bc, either the present or the future. When I was so terribly tired on chemo I think it kinda rolled off of me. And I was too tired to talk anyway. But now I'm feeling better & if I try to talk to him it like talking to a brick wall. Just no response at all. I know it is bothering him & if we could talk it out he might feel better. It's funny too because we used to be able to talk about anything & everything. Carry on real conversations with 2 people participating. It was changing b4 bc but has been worse since then.

We did have fun with the squirt guns. I wish I had been up & running around but got several good hits in from my deck chair.

I've never been a runner but do have oa in both knees & have had surgery on both. They have hurt much more than normal since the chemo. My last tx was May 1^st & I would think I would be seeing an improvement by now.

Well, dh is ready to grill some burgers & I need to do the condiments & strawberries. I told you gals you got me started on them.

KathyL

D1:  Great idea for college girl and getting your beds weeded.  That's why we had kids, right???  Hahaha!

WVGirl:  Will they be doing any kind of scans before your surgery to see if your lump is smaller?  I hope it goes well... we'll be waiting to hear as it gets closer to the surgery date. 

Jenn:  Congrats on your winnings!  What a nice basket full of stuff.

Kimberly:  Sounds like you have a great PCP there. I like his style and support of you.

Would love to see Wicked someday (on my to-do list for the future); have fun!

Carol:  Add me to you "list" of Jewels scamming your collage.  I'd love one, too.

Cathy-CA:  Interesting you got the OK to use estrogen cream.  My OB/GYN (and onc) both said no to me about ANY estrogens EVER, even though I am ER-/PR-.  NO BC pills (even the progesterone-only ones), no creams (I had to use them after both deliveries and asked about them for later on with menopause), no estrogen-containing anything.  They were pretty adamant about it.  Of course, I'm sure you'll ask me why... and can I remember their rationale now? No.  What did yours say about it being OK?  I'd love for my GYN to put me back on a BC pill to help with my whacko periods and ovarian cysts since I'm far from menopause.

GTG girls.  I'm pooped.  Plus want to tune into "So you think you can dance".