Jan 2008--Ain't it Great?

Anonymous

Yep, survived Hanna here too. Just a long day of rain, and near the end it got a bit blowy. Neighbor's shutter blew off, my compost bin lid blew off, all were retrieved in short order.

Anyone watch the Stand Up to Cancer show Friday night? Pretty good show. Some difficult moments to watch.

I'm debating doing the local Komen walk this year. I can't imagine getting up to get registered at 6 am. I know that's when it starts, but I don't know how long the desk is open. We might have a group from work to do it. I personally interact with 4 other BC gals at work regularly, and I'm sure there are more I don't know.

JulieK_11_30_07

Hi Jewels - quick post for me, again, unfortunately! It's been a busy weekend and I still have grading to do tonight while I try to finish up the laundry. Uuuugh!

Kimberly - LOL on your word jumble! I can relate to that one as a computer teacher! When students used to have data disks, I once told the class to "pass their dicks down" instead of the disks. My fellow teachers and I still laugh about that one. Hope your class numbers get worked out - that can be so frustrating! Mine, luckily, seem to be set for now. Hope you had a nice time at your son's for the bbq!

D1 - sure hope your daughter's college app process goes well. That sounds like an awful lot of stress and worry for the parents! Glad your power came back on and you didn't have too much damage.

Carol - that's so exciting that your 3-day is coming up!! I'll be thinking of you. I can't wait to see pictures of your event. I'm sorry to hear that Steph is having a hard time - tell him I'll be saying extra prayers for him.

Kathy - Big bummer that you have to have your nipples redone. That's good, though, that you didn't have any pain with it the first time. I see my ps on the 15^th and we'll be scheduling my surgery for that also. I'm thinking it will be right around Christmas. You mentioned that you had a mammogram - not on your implant breast, though, right? I had bilateral mast and all of my docs say I will not have mammograms at all now.

Kris - you crack me up on the hair comments. I'm right there with ya, sister!

LJ - glad you, too, survived the storms!! Hope you don't have too many limbs, etc. to pick up.

Wendy - so glad you checked in!! You're one of our missing Jewels I've been wondering about. Glad to hear you're doing well.

Paula - hope your swelling is improving! My doc said to take Ibuprofen and use heat for mine - they've felt better the last couple days. I've done much less this weekend, so I'm hoping it was just aching muscles I haven't used for a while. Hope the college visit goes well!! So far, I can only get my dr to do blood tests - no mri, scan, etc... what prompted the decision by yours to get the tests done?

Ds had another football game yesterday and won 28-8! He played really well - except when they put him on defense and he tripped over a fellow player from his own team, but we're trying to forget that play.

Well, this is longer than I intended! Better go fold some laundry. Take care, Jewels!

Julie

golfer779

Sitting here this eve watching the Hawks game that we recorded.  So far its not looking too good.  Boy gotta love being able to whip through the commercials and huddles.

D1, happy to report that no stitches popped today.  I actually played pretty good, won a whopping 4 bucks from the boss man!

Wow, I had no idea that such a large portion of the east coast was getting crappy weather.  So do you easterners have generators for power outages?  

And yes, it certainly is a "treat" to not have to contend with Auntie Flo!!!  I have replaced tampons with a fan when I packed!!!

Kathy, I'm still waiting for my ds to want to practice his reading!

Kris, I'll be sure to report back on the facial hair thing. 

LJ, yep, the dh and I watched the Stand Up To Cancer program.  Boy there we're certainly some staggering statistics. 

Julie, lol on the "dicks" comment, here I thought that it would be hard to top Kimberly's slip up!

I was glad to read that your foob's we're feeling better.  Sounds like laying a bit low this weekend was a good move. 

Okay, the Seahawks look cruddy so far ... don't even think I'll finish watching with the dh, the bed is calling my name.

Carol

KathyL

LJ:  Glad to hear you are OK after Hanna.  I also watched the Stand Up To Cancer program.  Thought it was pretty good.

Julie:  LOL on your word gaffe!  Hey, I did that stuff before BC... .   To clarify about my boobs/ mammo.  I had the mastectomy on the left, so no mammo there.  My right was OK, but the ps gave me an implant to match the left side (made both a B/C cup, where before I was barely an A).  So, since the right is normal tissue (albeit "bigger" now), I have to get a mammo annually on that side--- lots o' fun with an implant.

Carol: We don't have a generator at our house.  We just haven't had enough power outages to make it worth while yet.  Our power lines are mostly underground in our neighborhood, and cable/phone/internet are too with a fiber optic system from Verizon (FiOS for those that know what that is).  The few outages we've had though, it takes hours to be fixed, so it makes me weigh the pros and cons a lot.

Got the appointment today for Nip Surgery #2--- October 1.  Hope this time works.

Gonna go chillax before my long day tomorrow. 

SISKimberly

Hey lady Jewels,

The BBQ was nice. Jon cooked everything. He's still learning, but I so appreciated his efforts.

Classes still aren't settled. Seems it could be a few more days or even until the end of the week to get all the numbers evened out. Our Dean isn't doing it this in a logical manner and our scheduler is frustrated as she sees how it could be more easily done. Unfortunately, she's the new kid on the block, so she doesn't want to ruffle feathers. Totally understand. So, I gained 2 really low kids in 1st period even though I lost 5, so I'm really only down 3. WTF!!!!!   I haven't lost any in 5th or 6th yet, but gained another really low kid in 6th.  Maybe things will shift tomorrow.  FLEXIBLE...deep breaths...and reminding myself that I can only do what I can do.

All our hurricane maidens, D1, Kathy, and LJ13, I'm so glad to hear you're all OK and no damage was done.

Carol - The Forbidden Gate is just resting now for the next 6 to 12 months before bottling. The Zin should be ready soon to pick. The heat has been crazy, so Greg needs a few cool days in a row to get a better sugar reading. This week should see a cooling trend.

I'm sorry to hear about Steph. Give him our best wishes and hugs.  I can't even imagine how hard that must be to watch him just getting more frail. ((((HUGS)))) for you both. 

D1- I worked out today. Went to yoga but the teacher didn't show, so I went back to school and did 30 minutes on the eliptical and then did some weights...not heavy or a ton of reps yet, but I did it!!!

Kathy - Hoping #2 does the trick for your tats and nips. My ps asked if I wanted to do that and I said nope. I'm good since they'd only be visually effective and not reactionary like my old nips were.  Having a real breast and a reconstucted breast, however, is a different story. 

Jules- I've got papers staring at me, too, but I'm too tired, so I'm going to save them and try to get a few done each morning. Tuesdays and Thursdays will be my day to stay late and grade, and then go work out.

LOL...on the floor!!!!  Pass your dicks in is a much funnier faux pa (or however you spell that). 

OK, I'm bushed. GTG.

Kimberly 

Determined1

WTF, you guys, I had to chase our thread down on page 2!!!!!  (Maybe that's a good thing...)

So I met with my onc yesty.  It was pretty uneventful (except that I was there for more than 3 hours!).  Seems all the studies I'd signed up to do for Georgetown didn't make my blood draw orders and there was no way I was going to have more than one draw.  So we had to track down everyone and have the stuff added.  I hope they got what they needed.  One of the tubes I did was for BRCA testing, so we'll see...

My onc was in to making me comfortable this time.  I told him I was hesitant to go with more rx, so he agreed to try some natural remedies first.  So I toddled off to the vitamin store today to buy some vit e and oil of primrose.  I take these 2x a day to combat the hot flashes.  You'll recall I was trying the black cohosh, but it didn't cut the mustard, so onward and upward.  I'm not wild about taking all of these supplements, but I really don't want to try the rx stuff.  He was also concerned that I don't sleep (hell, I haven't slept in 17 years-since dd was born.  That's the reason we only have 2 kids!).  Anyway, I'm supposed to try taking a Tylenol PM every night for a week and then see what happens.  If that doesn't get me at least 6 hours a night, then I have an rx for Ambien.  I hate this.  I probably won't take it, but we'll see.  I've gotten used to 3 hours then tossing and turning and then one more hour before I get up.  Maybe I'll be a better person if I sleep...

So, what's up?

KathyL-okay, so WTH on the nipple.  I like your attitude.  (Particularly since I know you're my needle phobic sister.)

Oh, speaking of needles-big girl panties, Carol.  Are you reading this???

LJ-Lost the compost bin top?  Not bad.  Our electricity was cut off by someone's huge old maple falling up the street.  It was a shame to see the old tree go, but I was distressed by no electricity!  We didn't watch the Cancer show here.  It came on and I expressed some interest, but everyone said the only reason I wanted to watch it was because I'd had cancer (duh) and that if I hadn't, I wouldn't want to watch it.  Since they hadn't had cancer, we watched some other drivel.  I'm sorry I missed it.  Oh, and WTH, do the Komen.  It's one day out of your life and it's kinda reaffirming to realize that you are a survivor.  I sometimes lose sight of that in my little world.  You went through a lot, LJ, go out and celebrate the fact that you did it.  Take dp, too, she a survivor as well.

Glad to see your post, Julie, how are your girls?  Last I heard, you over did.  Is everything okay?  I wish someone would pass a dick down to me...

OMG, I almost spewed martini at the computer when I read that Carol replaced her tampons with a fan!!!  And the Hawks and Vikes suck, so we can commiserate through yet another sport season.

Okay, then you want your ds to practice reading-are you trying to ruin my computer????  I think some vodka came out of my nose on that one.

Oh, Kathy makes me want to weigh in on the generator.  Our power goes out a lot because our lines are above ground in a mature neighborhood (read that to say lots of old trees in a dense area).  We don't have a generator, but many of our neighbors do.  It's weird when the power goes out to hear the hum of all those generators.  I doubt we'll get one, too cheap.

SIS Kimberly-I wish I had an interest in making wine.  I think I mentioned that we tried beer and it was good, but something that fell away when we had kids.  I really enjoy reading about your wine, so please keep us updated.  I really hope your classes work out.  I was talking to my sister last night (I'll share that next).  She's an elementary school librarian and is having all kinds of difficulty with her principal.  She's a librarian that doesn't want to just check out books.  She wants to do distance learning with out islands in the Bahamas (that's what I'm going to tell you about in a minute) and also with South Africa.  She's really amazing, and I don't just say that because she's my sister.  But her principal is a butt.  So I totally feel for you trying to get things sorted out.  Good teachers should be treated better.

So, my sister.  Three years ago I went to one of the Bahamian out islands with her to work under her direction to set up some literacy centers.  She's incredible.  We did some library stuff, but she also did some modeling for the island teachers.  I helped some of the kids with internet research for the first time (thank goodness I'd done all that volunteering in the computer lab when my kids were in elementary school) and then we put together some presentations to share via internet with her school in Wisconsin.  Then, because I use PCs (she's a MAC girl), I was asked to set up the internet center in one of the towns with donated PCs.  It was hard, because when I fired up the computers, they all had passwords.  So I spent hours trying to crack those passwords.  Out of 5 machines, I got 3 opened up and loaded all kinds of software.  It was such a good feeling.  (Although there was a sand flea nest under the table they set up for the computers, so my legs swelled up from all the bites and I was a mess.)

Anyway, long story short.  For Christmas last year I asked dh for a ticket to the Bahamas to help my sister again this year.  It looks like we'll be going the last week of October.  I wouldn't normally miss the end of an election cycle (I love politics, but I refrain here, not sure you'd all still like me), but this is totally worth it.  I hate the fucking bugs and sweaty, sandy conditions (I'm really a princess), but I feel really good about it.  And my hair is good for a trip to the Bahamas.  So there.

Okay, complain time.  Why is my middle rounding?  I've always been thin and I work out a lot, but I see some roundness in photos.  What's up with that?????

That's me and the dh on vacation.  We're on the Bosphorus.  I know, now you really feel sorry for my roundness...

D1

golfer779

Okay, since I think that D1 screwed up the page layout, I'll jump on the band wagon, hoping that the following pic turns out

golfer779

Shoot, trying to post a pic big enough to see a bit of detail ... figure D1 already screwed up the layout so I'm trying to jump on the band wagon !!!

 

 Hoping this turned out this time ... I'm planning on displaying the pictures from my 3 Day tent.  It will be accompanied by a pair of "blow up ta-ta's!!!  I tried to include everybody I could from the pics that have been posted ... I know I missed quite a few of them, but when I do the collage, I'll make sure I include most every one.  

 Note :   I love LJ's hand shot !!!

Gotta run, have company coming for dinner tonight, getting off work early tomorrow, and taking all of Thursday off of work.  I'll save my shout outs til then !!!

golfer779

Darn it ... it still didn't post in "full size" ... I'll be taking more from the "camp site" !!!

Determined1

Okay, maybe I screwed up the layout, but my fav is still SIS Kimberly flying away with her super cape!  (That one needs to be bigger than the frisbee, imo)

D1

Determined1

Oh, and I just saw LJ's hand again....

Determined1

Total vapors.

RN2teach

Had my first follow-up with the oncologist today. Very thorough check-up. It went well. No more swelling in the boob... must've been all the heavy lifting last week? As for my follow-up scans, those are being ordered by my surgeon NOT my onco. The onc is a firm believer in the blood tests and I got orders today for all of the tumor markers. I'll go get those drawn sometime this week--dh and I both saw the onco and our appts were so late that the lab was closed today.

I'll be having the port taken out soon. Had major issues getting the danged thing flushed today. Onc says it is time for it to go bye-bye. I'll be calling my surgeon tomorrow to see when I can get that scheduled. 

Still have the mammo to schedule for the rad onc and I have my scans on the 24th for the surgeon. Dh has his brain MRI on the same day and then I'll see the surgeon on the 30th and leave right after to take dh to NC to see his neurooncologist at Duke on Oct. 1.

Dh's check-up went well also. He's much more alert and "frisky" IFYKWIM since changing the trial meds to evenings. Unfortunately, I'm seeing some cognitive changes lately... med related, I hope... He forgot how to use our washer and I had to walk him through it. I almost cried... silly, I know...

Double UGH on all the papers to be graded, my teacher Jewels! I did make a nice dent in the grading today as I waited to see the onc. They're so understaffed (short two oncologists) that we always have to wait, so I took my papers. Made the wait seem shorter, I think.

Well, Julie and Kimberly, I'm feeling much better about my speech impediment now. Thanks for the belly laughs.

Julie- I think we'd all be better off if all the teenaged boys did pass their dicks down... dunno who'd want to collect them, tho!!

Kimberly- what a drag that your classes aren't settled yet. Hope the situation gets fixed soon. I've had a few kids drop my class when they learn it isn't all play, but otherwise no changes. Still trying to get a nurse for the other class, but we've got the curriculum covered until then.

You asked why I'm having a brain MRI and PET Scans... my surgeon is a young surgical oncologist and tends to be more aggressive with the scans, I think. I'm going with it as long as my insurance doesn't balk. Can't hurt, I guess?!

I SO need to drop 15 lb. myself. I weighed in at 140 today. I'm only 5'5". My diet is okay, but I'm not exercising like I should... I walk, but it is so haphazard... I'll do good for 3-4 days and then skip 3-4... gotta do better.

D1- you're looking GOOD sister--give yourself a break! With that said, I DO hear what you're saying. Everytime I look at a picture of myself, I'm startled at the changes in my body... ain't likin' that one little bit! But you are beautiful--you know that, right?!

I'm looking at the conference agenda for Washington... there's something going on all the time, but it looks like I can sneak out around 3:30pm on Sunday (9/21) or 8:30pm on Monday (9/22). I'll have about an hour and a half each time. Let me know what you think. I hope one of those times will work for you!

KathyL- I bow to your courage, girl--what a great attitude!! Let's hope the 2nd nip surgery is a keeper!

You gave me another moment of nostalgia with the dd practicing her reading... So sweet....

Kris- my facial fuzzies were buzzed off with the clippers when I had my ears and neckline trimmed last week. I'll keep you posted on the aftermath!

Carol- your weekend is here already?! I'm sending good vibes and all the positive energy I can muster your way for a wonderful weekend. I almost peed myself reading about your visit to the Lover store for boob decorations. What a trip!!! And how like your wonderful self to bring the Jewels along on your voyage--the collage is awesome! Can we have a copy?!

Oh darn! I'm bummed to hear that Steph is having a rough time. I'll remember him in my prayers.

The college visit last Saturday was nice. The school has a beautiful campus, smaller size (under 10,000), and all the right programs. It might be a good fit for ds. I have former students in the nursing program there and they met us after the tour--gave us some inside "scoop" on the college. That was a nice perk for me!

Well, didn't mean write a book... It's getting late--better hit the hay...

Paula

KathyL

Good Morning Jewels!  Aaaahhh, a day off!  But you know me, it's filled with all kinds of things to do.  Got an appointment with my therapist.  Haven't seen her in a while and just thought it may be good to do a "mental tune up".  Cleaning girls are coming in the afternoon, so the house will be looking fresh.  And, gonna make my homemade mac-n-cheese for the kids for dinner with some ham steaks (ds love the ham, dd loves the mac n cheese).  Working on some new things for the "old job"... improving my scheduled hours and adding some more time here and there.  It's been nice to have some extra income to help with the bills and I really love seeing my patients again.  So what's new with all of you?

Kimberly:  I hope things improve with your classes.  I can only imagine the stress it is causing you.  Being type A, I DO understand how the constant changes are a PITA.

D1:  Hoping you get good news about your BRCA status.  Mine took about 3 weeks for the results to come back.  Also hoping the herbals will get you some more sleep.  I didn't realize how little you slept... I'd be a total bee-otch on that amount!  I could easily do 9 hours a night if I could sleep in all the time.

BTW, you look awesome in the pic.  Did not notice any "roundness", but I know how you feel.  I still have 5 lbs. I'd love to lose, and really wish I could get rid of 10  (((sigh))).  I am soooo jealous of your blonde hair.  I really miss mine.  I'll have to get around to posting my latest ‘do.  Will be changing it up in October and hopefully going back to blonde.

Carol:  Loved the collage.  I am amazed at your talent and thoughtfulness.  You honestly are such a damn good person, girl!  I'll be thinking of you lots this weekend.  And so sorry to hear that Steph is not doing well.  I'm sure it must be very difficult to watch him getting frail.

Paula:  OK, you need a personal secretary!  I don't know how you do it all. Best of luck to you and dh in all that you have ahead these next few weeks.

Tell me more about the tumor markers you are having drawn.  I am also ER-/PR- and I did not think we could have blood tests done for that.  So now I'm curious.  I see my onc in 2 weeks again and can add that to the list of questions I have for him this go-around.

Hope all the other Jewels are doing well.  Has anyone heard from Dana?

SISKimberly

Just a quick check in.  Classes are still not settled.  I may still lose some kids 5th and 6th, or not.So we just keep on trucking....

Speaking of trucking...Carol, I love the collage. I agree with Kathy...you truly are such a good hearted person. I will sooo be thinking of you this weekend as I grade essays and you walk your 20 miles a day...I'm thinking we're going to battle it out for who will be the worse for wear. Hahaha

D1- Boy I hear ya on the 'roundness' just appearing out of nowhere. OK, so mine appeared after chemo was almost done.  I hoped it would go away, but NO...it's quite happy sitting right around my middle.  Personally, I think you look great. We often see ourselves very differently than others see us, but I know what you mean about looking at pics and thinking, when did that happen?

I went to yoga today. I took my pedometer to school, and it looks like I walk on an average day just at school over 4,000 steps. They aren't aerobic steps like when I go for a walk, but I take enough steps to cover 1.64 miles. Not bad.

And what is with not sleeping?  Dr. Oz says that getting enough sleep is vital for good health.  I hope your vitamins and your Tylenol PM help you get at least 6 hours. I'd be worthless without at least 6 hours.  I need more like 7 or 8. 

Paula - You so need a personal secretary to help you keep up with everything you do. Man, you are one busy gal.  I guess getting the blood work and the scans is covering all the bases, so why not. Like you said, if insurance wants to cover it, then why not?  I hope you're doing something nice for yourself each day to nurture yourself. 

I haven't heard from Dana....or others for that matter.  Hope everyone is doing OK.

GTG. I'm hungry and need to make myself some chow.

SIS 

golfer779

Hey Ladies, I figure by now, most will be happy to hear that I'll finally be walking "the walk", so you all won't have to hear about it from me much longer. Well, atleast for the next 3 days, I know I'll be bubbling over with "something" come Sunday night. Then it will be on to encourage Cathy for the San Diego adventure.

After dinner last night I received a nice surprise from my dh. Hmmmm, a jewelry box ... so far its looking good ... he gave me a beautiful necklace with a diamond pendant. He said there is a story behind the circle of diamonds. They start out very small at one end and get bigger as they go around the ring. He said it is like a goal, starting out small and with each accomplishment they get bigger. As I will be taking off my wedding ring for the weekend (my hands get too puffy), I will be happy to wear such a thoughtful gift. Here I figured that the dh wasn't really "into" this whole commitment I had made, just goes to show how wrong I was, he just had not reaffirmed it with words on a regular basis like I might have thought he would.

The dh left this morning on a business trip, and won't be returning until Friday night. We will be 22 miles into our adventure by then. He is planning on coming over to the cheering stations on Saturday, as well as on Sunday for the closing ceremonies with my ds. I've got my Kleenex packed !!!

Kathy, so you aren't having to wait too long for nip surgery #2. Hoping that you get the results you expect this time around.

A mental tune up huh? If it we're not for the Jewels to yak with, along with some really good friends, I know that I would have been in for the ol' tune up myself. I've personally had some pretty good communication with a mental health counselor over the years to get me over a few humps and bumps in the road. Good for you to use the resources we have available to us.

Oh Wow, the ds just got home from skate practice, seemed a little late ... came upstairs to say goodnight and he gave me the most touching card and bath oil. The little guy does have a heart ... and yep he got my tear ducts flowin'. Glad I didn't nag him about being late.

D1, so as you know you crack me up on nearly a daily basis reading your post. And could we all look so good? Hey from a short hair gal myself (by choice), I think the short do's look great.

So is hurricane season over by the end of Oct? Sounds like a great adventure with your sis thats been pretty meaningful to you as well.

Yes, I will be sporting my "big girl panties" soon, the port is going to be history. Reading Paula's post and the problems with the flushing, I don't want to go there. Hey I got my stiches out today, and faired pretty darn good.

Kimberly, sounds like you'll be gearing up for the Zin harvest soon. I'm assuming your Pinot tasting was fun.

Boy you can just feel the frustration in your words with your class fiascos. I believe you hit it on the head with your own thought of "deep breathes".

I'll be jumping on your exercise band wagon here soon. Hopefully together we can keep each other motivated when we need a little encouragement. (speaking for myself). I definitely need to start doing something for some upper body strength.

Paula, my goodness gal, between yourself, the dh, and kids (both your own and students) you have a full meal deal going on. I sure hope that you and D1 get the chance to meet in person at the end of the month.

Regarding the JJ's pics, I will be working on getting pics together over the next month. I want to have it copied onto a one sheet print. I think I have almost all of the pictures in a file from the start so hopefully it won't be too hard to come up with something soon.

Yep the outing to the Lover's store was a doozy. My tent mate at the 3 Day is a school teacher. I told her about my venture, she said there is no way she'd be caught going in a store like that. She said with her luck she's run into "Johnny's" mom!!

I gave Steph an extra big hug today, told him it was from the gals on-line ... he was doing pretty good today. In fact he made it through a 8 hour day at work.

Okay, thats it for me tonight, I'm taking tomorrow off from work, will try to figure out what I can live without over the weekend to get my bag down to the 35lb maximum. Seems as if I'm about 5 lbs over and no there is not half rack of beer packed !!!

Pleasant dreams for those who are actually sleeping ... D1, your probably tossing and turning about now ... hope that Tylenol PM is working!

Carol

Determined1

Hey Gang.  Thanks for the kind words about my middle.  The best thing about you guys is that you're complimentary, but you totally understand what I'm talking about.  Yeah, SIS Kimberly, I think my roundness is a "since chemo" condition, too.  Any idea why we're seeing this?  It makes me look older than I want to look, that's for sure.

Paula, glad to hear your dh is frisky.  I actually went out and bought some of that warming KY jelly today.  I was lurking around on the "mojo" thread and several women there swear by it.  It's been a while since I've put that body part to use and I don't want excess chafing to hinder things, iykwim.  I'm hoping that the KY doesn't reach its expiration date before I use it.  That would be a real slap in the face.

Thanks for the times you can play.  I'm going to shoot for the Sunday time, since 8:30pm is getting close to my bedtime...  I think I'll try to remember to pm you my phone numbers (home and cell) and if you'd do the same, we can nail things down as we get closer.  So when do you arrive in the area?  On Saturday?  I'm really excited to meet you!

Wow, your ds is looking at much larger schools than my two.  College girl's school is about 2,400 and it appears dd is headed in the same direction.  The nice thing about the larger school is that they can offer so much more to their students.  All of these smaller schools keep talking about the consortiums they've formed with other small schools, but what kid actually goes off campus to take a class at another college?  I never woulda done that.

Sounds like you filled your dance card on your day off, KathyL.  I'm not too worried about the BRCA thing, to be honest.  It is what it is.  I'm not even sure it will help me much as I fully expect to get the best screening possible as a bc survivor, anyway.  But we'll see.  I think it will affect my sisters (and of course, my daughters) more than me.

Okay you guys.  Dd raked me over the coals this morning when I mentioned that I didn't sleep AGAIN last night.  She told me to stop being a baby and try the Tylenol PM for the 5 nights the onc recommended.  So tonight, if I remember (I conveniently forget it), I will take the Tylenol and see if it helps.  I think I'm afraid it won't and then I have to use Ambien, which sounds scary to me (I'm not a very good druggie-except in college, but that was different).  Can I say I still hate this?

So 4,000 steps in a day, Kimberly?  That sounds like a lot.  I wonder how many Carol will put on her soles this weekend?????

Speaking of Carol, YOU GOT DIAMONDS????!!!!  Way to go, girl!!!  Sounds like dh and ds both know how to bring out the sap in you.  Gotta love that.  (Oh, and I love the dh's story behind the rocks.)  Like everyone here, I'll say you are one of the kindest people I've had the pleasure to know, so it makes me happy for you to be the one getting the treats for a change. 

You will have the best thoughts of the Jewels walking with you on your 3day.  Hang in there.  (Oh, and take the beer out of your pack-maybe they'll carry it for you on the sweep bus.)  Be safe and pay attention to your body.  Most of all, have fun.  You kicked cancer's ass and now you get to celebrate!!!!

Ima go take my shower finally.  Although I don't know why-I've been to the gym and then ran all my errands on the way home in my sweaty state, so the world has seen me in my filthiness today.  Dh is on a biz trip (he flew on 9/11 and took off right before 9am-too freaky for me), so it's just me and dd today.  I think I'll make her favorite enchiladas for dinner.

Later.

D1

KathyL

Hi ladies.  It looks quiet on here today.  Carol, if I don't get back on here until later this weekend... go get 'em, Jewel!  Love the necklace that dh got you, too.... he's a keeper for sure with a gift like that.  You may have to give him some YKW once you're rested after the walk BTW!

Kimberly:  Almost the end of another week for you.  Maybe next week will be better.  Kudos for finding the positive by focusing on the walking steps instead.  You always are Miss Patty Positive and I love ya for it!

D1:  Your comments on the KY expiring reminded me that after dh got his vasectomy, he threw out a ton of old condoms that had expired... how sad (but funny) is that?!  So, don't let that "joy gel" dry up .

Have a good weekend, Jewels!

RN2teach

Boy, am I ready for it to be Friday already! We had a little excitement here yesterday when dh had a hum-dinger of a seizure. Lasted 1.5 hours... gave him two doses of the emergency med. before it subsided. The kids were here when it started. Dh was outside and they had to call the neighbors to help get him inside. They were a bit freaked out by it--lasting so long and all. So, dh's frisky, feel-good days are a thing of the past for a while. It's always somethin'....

Got your pm, D1. I'll send you my phone #s when I finish this post. I'm excited about meeting you. The two times I gave you are the best for me, but if neither of those times works for you, we'll work something else out. We are driving in on Saturday the 20th. The conference starts at 3pm Saturday and ends at 3pm on Tuesday.

KathyL- WTG taking care of yourself with the tune-up! Think I could use a few sessions myself. My stress ball is looking a little stressed out from the work-outs I'm giving it!

Carol- I got a little teary reading about your dh's gift and message. Lovely! And then you capped it with ds' gift. Your boys done good, girl!  I second D1's observation--you deserve a little bling and all the love that your men have showered on you!

Kimberly- I feel your pain with the class chaos. Hope things fall into place for you soon!

Got a sweet postcard from my new SP. Thanks for thinking of me!

Better hop off of here and get back to the laundry...

Take care all, Paula

texrn

Hey everyone,

Just a quick check-in. Been real busy getting the kids back-to-school & all that goes along w that, plus I've been working extra (during the week) at the hospital. Had my NIP surgery a few weeks back on Aug. 27th...so far so good. I only did it b/c I'm an 'all or nothing' type of a person, but when I did the unveiling....Wow! what a difference! I've always been happy w/ my implants, but having the nips visually adds a realistic look to them that I didn't expect. Even though my mastectomy scars are still visible, they practically disappear now that there is something in the middle of each breast. I go some time in Nov. for the tats. Had my first haircut & color a couple of weeks ago, as well - even had some highlights done! Before, when I used to look in the mirror, my hair (or lack thereof) & my foobs were just a reminder of what I tried all day long to forget. Now when I look in the mirror I feel like I'm really & truly back-on-track. As superficial as it might sound, I actually feel "whole" again.

Since there is no way I can catch up on the posts, I've only read the last couple of pages -

Paula - I'm hoping & praying for more  'feel good days' ahead for your dh...& for you (you sure have a lot on your plate!)

Carol - Good luck & Godspeed! on your upcoming 3day race!

D1 - Have tried the warming KY before & let me tell you....quite entertaining. Like Kathy says - hope your mojo comes back before the "joy gel"(LOL!) dries up!

Kimberly - don't know how you teachers do it! I hope the chaos doesn't last too much longer - hang in there! Thanks for keeping up w/ the SP project...don't know when you find the time.

I may not post as often as I'd like, but you all are never far from my thoughts.

Take care,

Therese

  

JulieK_11_30_07

Hi girls -- don't have much time tonight - hopefully this weekend I will. Just wanted to jump on and tell Carol I'll be thinking about you this weekend as you embark on your 3-day journey!!!! Go get 'em, gal!! We're all there with you in spirit. Can't wait to hear all about it and see your pics. And, WOW, did dh and ds come through for you!!! What wonderful men you have in your life!

Paula - I sure hope dh is doing okay after his recent seizure. You're all in my thoughts and prayers.

I'll be back as soon as I can!!

Jules

Determined1

Boy does cancer suck.  My younger sister (who had Hodgkin's Lymphoma 3 years ago) called to tell me that she's discovered a new lump.  It's in the same location of the cancerous lump from 3 years ago, but on the other side of her neck.  She's really upset (no shit).  She's scheduled for all the usual tests and scans on the 23^rd.  I told her this is the hardest part of the journey-the waiting for the results/dx.  She agreed, saying it's really hard for her to get out of her own head.  I think we all know exactly how she feels.  If you guys could help me with some positive vibes, I'd be most appreciative

Whew!  I need to move on to more positive things.

KathyL, I love that-"Miss Patty Positive!"  I'll try to be a MPP and make an effort to try that KY soon!  (Um, I'm a little intimidated by Therese's comment that the warming stuff is "entertaining...")

Speaking of Therese, it was so nice to hear you all excited about your hair and foobs.  Before bc, I didn't realize what girl I am and I'm hearing all kinds of "girl-a-tude" in your post.  Enjoy yourself!

Hey Julie, good to see you!  Stop by when you can catch us up on your life.

Thinking of Carol, marching along with her 3 cases of beer stuffed in to her pack...

D1

KathyL

Paula: An hour and a half seizure sounds horrible.  The weekend had better be kind to you and dh.  I'm amazed you haven't thrown that stress ball out the window by now for its ineptitude (is that a word?).

Therese: Glad to hear you sounding so good.  It's nice to be busy doing "normal things", huh?  Congrats on the new nippies!  Makes the girls look so much different...

Julie: Don't know how any of the teachers here have time to even read the posts, let alone comment.  Good to see you.

D1:  Cancer does suck!  Sorry to hear about your sister.  I think finding another lump is everyone's worst nightmare, and I can imagine the sick feeling in her stomach right now as she starts the waiting game we all know too well.  I'm sending my vibes to you and her, for sure!

GTG, I'm at work.

texrn

D1- positive vibes are going out to your sister from way out here in soon-to-be-soaked Texas!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Therese

kris60

Ya Gang!

Went and had my new eyebrows waxed...yayyyyy.  While I was there I asked my hairdresser the facial hair question.  The consensus is facial hair comes back the same exact way it left if that's what you choose.  So peach fuzz will stay peach fuzz when it returns. 

With that said, they said there's a little facial hair straight razor thingy (<- technical term there) to 'shace off the fuzziness.  I went for that route instead of waxing, it's a cute little thing with a guard on it and you do it to dry skin.  I bought it at a Sally Beauty Co. store, they're disposible and cost about $4.50 for 3 in a pack.  I have a whole new respect for guys that shave.... it's a bitch..lol.  I thought legs were a pain.  heehee  actually it wasn't bad, no razor burn or anything.  YAY I feel better already.  Next stop, checking into a Foob......

sheshe48

Hi Jewels,

Sorry I have been MIA, I was hurting so bad in my back from working. I'm finally getting broken in now. For the past few days I have been working on my web site, I'm going to walk in the 5 K. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Oct 18th. I pasted my web site, I figure if I meet my goal I will up it. I'm off the next 4 days so by tomorrow I will be on yakky and getting caught up on the post. I have missed you guys.

Sherry

sheshe48

<div>Making Strides Against Breast Cancer - 2008-2009</div><div><a href="https://secure3.convio.net/tacs/site/Donation2?df_id=1004978&FR_ID=11661&PROXY_ID=8018074&PROXY_TYPE=20&outreachid=8GoXmZI5FUlm0ZyoNWdcakMKwY3ek2wG"><img border="0" alt="2008 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer -  Ann Arbor, MI" title="2008 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer -  Ann Arbor, MI" src="http://main.acsevents.org/site/DynImg/mZyVlaZvAhQmZEoG-4xgBcPMrVB2gHsh.jpg"/></a></div&gt; 

Ok Jewels, I think I got my snippet right this time, this should take you to my web page.

Sherry

KathyL

Therese:  Saw the paper today briefly.  I hope you haven't washed away.  Where are you in relation to Houston?  It looks like they got hit hard.  I saw pics of the JPMorganChase building in downtown Houston.  My dh's new boss is located there and it looks like the building was bombed.  What a mess.  Hurricanes suck!

Kris:  I'm sure your tips and the gadget you mentioned will be sooo helpful here.  Whoda thought we'd have to worry about this stuff???  Bet the brows look good, too.

Sherry:  Good luck with your walk next month! 

Special thanks to my new SP.  I got a great Italian food magazine subscription (yum!  the first one looks great) and 3 Jewels CDs of music in the mail today.  I've been wanting to hear the music that everyone's been chatting about here... and now I can.  Thanks SP!  Reminds me I am lame and have to get on the ball for my SP.  I'm gonna keep this short.  Dh is in PA at my dad's house fixing their computer.  I'm home with the kids.  GTG get them into bed.

PAlady

Hi Ladies!

I can't believe how the time has flown. I haven't been on here since July 31^st and I have missed you guys! I will have to go back to page 115 to try and catch up. It doesn't seem too bad that I "only" have 5 pages to get through.

I have had a busy 6 weeks. I think I had mentioned earlier that I was involved with a young survivor group and we were doing a calendar. We ended up having a softball tournament to try and raise money for to pay for the calendars and that more or less took over my life for the last month plus. We had the tournament and the calendar sale kickoff last weekend. Even thought it rained on Saturday, we still had a good turn out. We had a great chinese auction  and sold tshirts and had a concession. I think we ended up making close to $10,000 !  We now have the calendars for sale at the cancer center and small retail shops in the area. It seems to be doing well so far. Tomorrow our group is going to be on the cover of a magazine insert in our paper! We are hoping that will help spread the word and fuel more sales, too! We have been asked to attend a few October events having to do with breast cancer, too.

Besides that, dh and I went on a trip to Asheville, and Matthews, North Carolina.  The kids have started back to school and we are back to games and practices all the time, too. We have done a few college trips, too.

I am going to try and insert a picture from a recent high school football game. It was called the Courage Bowl and was a game between two of the cities biggest rivals. $1 from every ticket sale went to the ACS. I am on the far right and the other ladies are from my survivor group.  My hair has gotten SO curly. I have always had poker straight hair. People get a kick out of it and think it is a perm! It is even a bit more curly now. I think the longer it gets, the tighter the curl gets.

I'm sorry it came out so big. I have tried resizing both in photobucket and the posting area????

 I hope you all are well, and I can't wait to catch up with everyone.

Hope you all have a great rest of the weekend!

Anonymous

Norma, mine is getting crazy wavy too. It's pissing me off   

Your photo is really tiny in photobucket, that's why it's fuzzy looking here. 

Hope Carol is holding up during her long long walk. Let's send happy feet vibes to her everyone.