I went to a Cancer Conference last evening at North Memorial Hospital, and heard a great couple of speakers, the first was my oncologist, Dr. Londer. He spoke on the present and future of cancer treatments....it was very promising and hopeful. We've come farther in the last five years than in the previous 30. He talked about how treatments are becoming personalized, because each cancer is different....and each patient is individual, and responds differently to each treatment. He also talked about the need for spiritual health and emotional health, and how important they are to the whole process. I certainly can speak to that!! So that really reinforced my beliefs in the power of prayer and surrounding myself with loving family and friends.
The second speaker was Karen Kaiser Clark, a motivational speaker, who spoke on "Life is Change, Growth is Optional"....and has written a book by that same title. I have heard Karen before, and she is great. She had us all laughing, and talked about the importance of laughter in our healing, (thus the importance of surrounding yourself with people who make you laugh, like Janet) she also spoke about perceptions, and how we choose our perception. Lastly she talked about celebrating the gift of you....and ended with the statement "For the measure of how well we have lived is...how well we have loved." All in all it was another wonderful evening.
This morning is gray and damp, so intune with Karen Kaiser Clark and Dr. Londer, my perception of the day is my title for my blog....April showers bring May flowers....think of all the good that will come from this rain.
Today I am going to the retiree's luncheon at the college, and look forward to seeing a lot of old friends. Love and prayers, m
P.S. Jeanie, your comments always uplift me!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
You Make Me Happy When Days are Gray!
The weather man promised some sun today, but I haven't seen it yet, and then he predicted lots of rain and storms after dark this evening, but I think it's coming a lot quicker then predicted. I had a really productive day yesterday, ran some errands, did some shopping, went to a movie, and then ended the evening with the volunteer appreciation dinner at church. Was so nice to get to visit with people I haven't seen in a while, and to spread my good news to a lot of the Spot Removers on my list. So nice to tell them their spot was gone as they promised, when they adopted it in prayer. I enjoyed the evening completely.
I got on the scale again this morning, like every morning, and I managed to the whole week, not to drop below my goal weight or what I consider my normal weight. I guess I must be learning to handle the side effects of the chemo pretty well. I really have so few that I barely know I'm on chemo. Little reminders here and there are easily ignored. It seems the chemo makes me stronger each round rather than dragging me down. So I contribute that to you making me happy when skies are gray!! I am so blessed by all of you.
The challenge of figuring out how we can get this cabin addition done seems to be going well too! Now we just have to make it through the two planning board meetings and getting those permits. I sure hope we don't run into any problems there that would delay the start, but we'll see how that goes.....they tell me it's just routine! So keep your fingers crossed for that too!
Off to see the dentist to get my teeth cleaned, and then this evening I'm attending a Cancer conference at North Memorial. Love and prayers, m
I got on the scale again this morning, like every morning, and I managed to the whole week, not to drop below my goal weight or what I consider my normal weight. I guess I must be learning to handle the side effects of the chemo pretty well. I really have so few that I barely know I'm on chemo. Little reminders here and there are easily ignored. It seems the chemo makes me stronger each round rather than dragging me down. So I contribute that to you making me happy when skies are gray!! I am so blessed by all of you.
The challenge of figuring out how we can get this cabin addition done seems to be going well too! Now we just have to make it through the two planning board meetings and getting those permits. I sure hope we don't run into any problems there that would delay the start, but we'll see how that goes.....they tell me it's just routine! So keep your fingers crossed for that too!
Off to see the dentist to get my teeth cleaned, and then this evening I'm attending a Cancer conference at North Memorial. Love and prayers, m
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Early Start to a Sunny Day
Looks like another beautiful day. I have an early appointment this a.m. and a few errands to run, and then going to a movie this afternoon with my friend Bonnie, and this evening I get to go to the Volunteer appreciation at church......so a full day is planned, and I needed to get up early to get it all in. I slept well, and my weight hasn't dropped this round of chemo....and that beautiful sunshine, helps to make me feel strong enough to do all of the days events.
Yesterday day went well with the builder, still need to get permits and decide who's going to do what and at what price, but I am for sure going through with the plans and still hope to have it done by the end of June....all is on track for that. Can't do anything till we get the variance, so we have two board meetings to attend for that....the first next Thursday.
Frank was a little better yesterday, so keep those prayers coming! Love and prayers, m
P.S. Just got this note from my Aunt Florence and wanted you to see how well your prayers are working:
Yesterday day went well with the builder, still need to get permits and decide who's going to do what and at what price, but I am for sure going through with the plans and still hope to have it done by the end of June....all is on track for that. Can't do anything till we get the variance, so we have two board meetings to attend for that....the first next Thursday.
Frank was a little better yesterday, so keep those prayers coming! Love and prayers, m
P.S. Just got this note from my Aunt Florence and wanted you to see how well your prayers are working:
I don't know how your spots came out, but I had good news on my spot! When having a scan for a kidney stone, a scan was accidentally taken of my lungs and showed a spot - this was about 5 yr ago. They have been watching it and when I went this week for a scan it was gone. I could have been a CA spot but didn't grow so was unlikely but with my history, they were cautious. Or it could be a walled TB spot as I worked in a TB san and came from Montello where there was a lot of TB including my Grandfather. So this was good news for me. Hope your spots are as good news!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Spending my Childrens Inheritance!
I'm heading back to the cabin today to talk to the builder, and really getting excited about it....it's really going to happen.
Yesterday was also a good day for me....as I finished delivering Meals-on-Wheels, I drove by a church sign that read "The greatest deed is that which we do for others"....and I immediately thought "It was my pleasure"...it was such a beautiful day, the sun was shining, the flowers, trees and shrubs were all in full bloom and the air smelt so sweet....that along with the smiles on the faces of the recipients made the day!
Last night I went to dinner with a women friend, and to my surprise she treated me as my birthday is next week, what a nice surprise! Thanks, Val. Then I was feeling well enough that we went and played Bingo at the American Legion....a new adventure for me. Neither of us were very lucky, and by 8 p.m. I decided I better head home....as soon as I got in the car I started yawning and didn't stop till I cut the news short and crawled into bed....no problem falling asleep last nite.
So that was the only symptom of the chemo....and actually quite mild at that!!! I continue to feel strong and my weight is holding a lot better than other rounds. Obviously the the big dinner and dessert I had last nite helped. By the way CRU in Blaine is a superb place to eat. I highly recommend it.
Continue to pray for Frank, Judy and Louie. Love and prayers, m
Yesterday was also a good day for me....as I finished delivering Meals-on-Wheels, I drove by a church sign that read "The greatest deed is that which we do for others"....and I immediately thought "It was my pleasure"...it was such a beautiful day, the sun was shining, the flowers, trees and shrubs were all in full bloom and the air smelt so sweet....that along with the smiles on the faces of the recipients made the day!
Last night I went to dinner with a women friend, and to my surprise she treated me as my birthday is next week, what a nice surprise! Thanks, Val. Then I was feeling well enough that we went and played Bingo at the American Legion....a new adventure for me. Neither of us were very lucky, and by 8 p.m. I decided I better head home....as soon as I got in the car I started yawning and didn't stop till I cut the news short and crawled into bed....no problem falling asleep last nite.
So that was the only symptom of the chemo....and actually quite mild at that!!! I continue to feel strong and my weight is holding a lot better than other rounds. Obviously the the big dinner and dessert I had last nite helped. By the way CRU in Blaine is a superb place to eat. I highly recommend it.
Continue to pray for Frank, Judy and Louie. Love and prayers, m
Monday, April 26, 2010
Waiting for the Sun to Come Out...Promised by Noon
Have Meals on Wheels to deliver at lunch time, so I'm sure the sun will be shining then. It's always so nice to see the smile on the faces of those getting the meal, and they are always so grateful for receiving it. It always warms my heart.
I'm feeling well, and my weight has not dropped yet, even though I had a short spurt of diarrhea yesterday afternoon. I took some Imodium immediately and it went away. I have plans for dinner this evening, so wondering if the tiredness will hit me this evening or tomorrow evening. Having the Wednesday start to Chemo instead of Monday, throws off my sense of timing with that. But as I am feeling stronger each time, it has lessened as well.
I spent yesterday pretty much with my book, but did accomplish going through a box of pictures that I came upon, and hadn't seen in a long while. Found some great pictures of my grandpa's family and some of Grandma's as well. Then I came upon four or five of my Dad's sister and brother-in-law (Lonnie and Pat) that I really need to get to their son Louie, who is also in need of prayers, as he has many bazaar medical problems, and seems to be "Special" like me. Was so fun to find them. Also in need of your prayers is my cousin Judy's husband Frank. He seems to have one problem after another, and is having problems getting off a vent. He has had a lung transplant and a kidney transplant, and this winter fell and collapsed his good lung, and has continued to go up and down since then and has not yet been able to return home. Please keep both Louie and Frank and their families in your prayers. Love and prayers, m
I'm feeling well, and my weight has not dropped yet, even though I had a short spurt of diarrhea yesterday afternoon. I took some Imodium immediately and it went away. I have plans for dinner this evening, so wondering if the tiredness will hit me this evening or tomorrow evening. Having the Wednesday start to Chemo instead of Monday, throws off my sense of timing with that. But as I am feeling stronger each time, it has lessened as well.
I spent yesterday pretty much with my book, but did accomplish going through a box of pictures that I came upon, and hadn't seen in a long while. Found some great pictures of my grandpa's family and some of Grandma's as well. Then I came upon four or five of my Dad's sister and brother-in-law (Lonnie and Pat) that I really need to get to their son Louie, who is also in need of prayers, as he has many bazaar medical problems, and seems to be "Special" like me. Was so fun to find them. Also in need of your prayers is my cousin Judy's husband Frank. He seems to have one problem after another, and is having problems getting off a vent. He has had a lung transplant and a kidney transplant, and this winter fell and collapsed his good lung, and has continued to go up and down since then and has not yet been able to return home. Please keep both Louie and Frank and their families in your prayers. Love and prayers, m
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Quiet Damp Morning
All is well on the health front, had a great day yesterday at the World Thai Chi and Qigong Conference. Had some personal healing and also attended a guided meditation my Master Chunyi Lin....it was powerful. I also talked to and got a hug from Master Jim Nance who I have known for several years, and who teaches Qigong at Anoka Ramsey CC. In Master Lin's guided meditation yesterday he again referred to the blockages (my spots) as leaving as beautiful butterflies, and always has you see and feel the bright rays of the sun in your heart, (it's all based on your God, Love, Kindness and Forgiveness) so all is real relevant for me....especially this week, having gotten the good news about all the butterflies I've sent out into the world!! Solar power and the power of prayer....is the way to go!! Again I must thank you all for caring so much and sending such love in my direction in the form of thoughts and prayers, they certainly have been felt!
No big plans for the day, may have to curl up with a good book. Love and prayers, m
No big plans for the day, may have to curl up with a good book. Love and prayers, m
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Up early but not Bright
Can't complain about the rain, the yards and gardens can use it. I'm up early as I'm going to a Tai Chi and Qigong conference this morning at Normandale CC, and then I have to turn around and head back to Coon Rapids for a funeral at 12:30, but I'm feeling well, so I think it will be a good day.
The scale still looks good this a.m.....haven't dropped yet. No other side effects bothering me either. We'll see what the day brings....Surprise me God!
Love and Prayers, m
The scale still looks good this a.m.....haven't dropped yet. No other side effects bothering me either. We'll see what the day brings....Surprise me God!
Love and Prayers, m
Friday, April 23, 2010
5 Down and 3 to Go!
Today Janet will go with me to get unplugged! This round has gone quite well, did have a little tingling in the fingers when I was digging the cold load of laundry out of the washer yesterday, it was a large load and I rinse in cold water, so it was cold....but the first time I could have used those hot pink gloves!! It quickly goes away when I ran my hands under warm water. But other than that I would not know I'm being pumped full of drugs for 46 hours.....oh, I guess I must try to forget, as every once in a while I get up to do something and quickly get yanked back to reality and pick up the pump and sling it back over my shoulder. It won't let you walk away without it. But it allowed me to go to Walgreens, get gas, Bachmanns for a gift for the funeral of a friends' mom, the bank, and then Costco before coming back home to do that laundry.....and I did get the trash taken out and placed on the curb for pick-up this morning as well.
Made a big decision yesterday....going to cash in an annuity and go all the way with the cabin addition.....talked with most of the kids and Kathleen.....also had a conversation with Gene and Mom the night before...and all agree it's a great idea. That way I can spend my kids inheritance and enjoy it too! I think it is my way of celebrating the good news I got this week.
Nothing else to report! Life is Good! God is Good! and the sun is shining for the mean time, they are predicting rain for the nite and tomorrow, but the lawn and gardens will enjoy that too!
Love and prayers to all, m
Made a big decision yesterday....going to cash in an annuity and go all the way with the cabin addition.....talked with most of the kids and Kathleen.....also had a conversation with Gene and Mom the night before...and all agree it's a great idea. That way I can spend my kids inheritance and enjoy it too! I think it is my way of celebrating the good news I got this week.
Nothing else to report! Life is Good! God is Good! and the sun is shining for the mean time, they are predicting rain for the nite and tomorrow, but the lawn and gardens will enjoy that too!
Love and prayers to all, m
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Blue Sky Without a Cloud
Kinda like my life today!!! I breezed through the morning of chemo, my blood counts are up higher then they have been since I started chemo. I guess since I don't have any bleeding problems, my Hemoglobin is climbing back to normal with a 11.7 (12 is normal). The White and platletts aren't great, but still higher then they have been. Weight was back up above what I consider my goal weight, so I have a couple of extra pounds to start with.
I was alone for the first time....but took a good book with me and the computer, so I had plenty of company....and the time went by quickly. Janet will go along tomorrow when I get unplugged. The receptionist who scheduled the chemo appointment, asked where my sidekick was. I told her she'd be back. Janet and I had spent about 1/2 hour visiting with her the day before. (Tom, Darcy is taking good care of me).
Last night I spent driving Katie and Tommy back and forth from school track practice to home to church and back home again. I didn't bother going home while they were at church, I just parked and rolled down the window and read my book. It was a beautiful night. Bill and Kim went to the Twins game, so a great night for watching baseball too!
Today I have household chores to do....like laundry and taking out the trash. Thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers. Love, m
I was alone for the first time....but took a good book with me and the computer, so I had plenty of company....and the time went by quickly. Janet will go along tomorrow when I get unplugged. The receptionist who scheduled the chemo appointment, asked where my sidekick was. I told her she'd be back. Janet and I had spent about 1/2 hour visiting with her the day before. (Tom, Darcy is taking good care of me).
Last night I spent driving Katie and Tommy back and forth from school track practice to home to church and back home again. I didn't bother going home while they were at church, I just parked and rolled down the window and read my book. It was a beautiful night. Bill and Kim went to the Twins game, so a great night for watching baseball too!
Today I have household chores to do....like laundry and taking out the trash. Thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers. Love, m
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
73 down and 2 to Go!
Originally I was thinking I must have had 73 spots as that is the number of spot removers I had....but I know all of you did your job completely, vigorously and thoroughly...so I must have had 75 spots....as there are 2 left...they too are smaller than they were to begin with! So if all of you put your efforts towards these last 2 spots they should be gone by the time I get unplugged on Friday.
I'm up another pound this morning, so I'm starting this round of chemo so strong, along with the good news of yesterday.....I feel invinceable....this cancer will not get me! Thank you all for the emails and comments on facebook after hearing the good news. The doctor called me remarkable! I always new I was "special". But now I feel exceptionally "special" .....if there is such a thing!
I am off to get plugged into round 5!! Charge!!!! Those spots better run for the hills!
Love and prayers, m
I'm up another pound this morning, so I'm starting this round of chemo so strong, along with the good news of yesterday.....I feel invinceable....this cancer will not get me! Thank you all for the emails and comments on facebook after hearing the good news. The doctor called me remarkable! I always new I was "special". But now I feel exceptionally "special" .....if there is such a thing!
I am off to get plugged into round 5!! Charge!!!! Those spots better run for the hills!
Love and prayers, m
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Let us Rejoice and be Glad!
This is the day the Lord hast made....Let us rejoice and be glad. Great news....only two noticeable spots to be seen....Dr. Londer was ecstatic....and has scheduled 4 more rounds of chemo, then a PET scan and then probably back to Mayo for surgery to removed the area of the rectum that caused the problem in the first place and make sure it never happens again! Celebration at hand....thanks for all the support and love....can't tell you how much I appreciate it....so continue the spot removing prayers....I am so blessed to have such a great family and friends a one special cousin and a bee....Love and prayers, m
Today is the Day the Lord has Made!
The weather man just said that weather wise this was going to be the best day of the year! I'm hoping that that continues into the doctors office and my report this morning will also be the best I've heard all year! I got on the scale this morning, and my weight was back to within 1/2 lb of my goal. I'm feeling strong and don't have any aches or pains. I can't tell you how much better I feel today compared to four months ago. It's night and day!! So whatever the scan says....I know I'm going in the right direction.
I'll come back to the blog later today and give you all a report. Thank you for all the thoughts and prayers...I know they carried me through all of this, and I couldn't have done it without the blessings God has sent me through all of you. You are my Sunshine and you make the Sonshine. m
I'll come back to the blog later today and give you all a report. Thank you for all the thoughts and prayers...I know they carried me through all of this, and I couldn't have done it without the blessings God has sent me through all of you. You are my Sunshine and you make the Sonshine. m
Monday, April 19, 2010
Another Beautiful Day
I had planned on doing a lot more in the garden yesterday, but Annie called and said that Allie's hockey team was planning in the championship game of a weekend tournament in Blaine, so I put off going to the garden work and watched them play to a 0-0 tie even with a 5 minute overtime. So it was a fun way to spend a few hours, but after I did go to work in the front yard and did quite a bit of cleaning of the garden....however, there is a lot more to do....much less the back and sides gardens.
I stepped on the scale this a.m. and gained back another pound....so that is good! Have big plans for this morning....a funeral for a women that I have known almost since we moved to Coon Rapids, and her husband died around the same time that Gene died. Then I'm doing Meals on Wheels, and then I think I have to come home and go back to the yard work. Hope you have a wonderful day. Love and prayers, m
I stepped on the scale this a.m. and gained back another pound....so that is good! Have big plans for this morning....a funeral for a women that I have known almost since we moved to Coon Rapids, and her husband died around the same time that Gene died. Then I'm doing Meals on Wheels, and then I think I have to come home and go back to the yard work. Hope you have a wonderful day. Love and prayers, m
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Sunday Sonday!
I had a great day yesterday, I'm including a picture of the gang at the brunch....a combination of my family, Haugen family, Clothier family and Sedesky's. Janet was kind enough to take it for us, but is therefore not in the picture. They were all very lucky with a combination of door prizes and raffle prizes. Some won several....that's why they are all smiling. Wendy (Ann's sister) realized that this was her 17th year in-a-row of attending. It's become the big event of Spring.
As for my health, I'm holding my own on the scale and feeling strong and well. It's a beautiful day and I plan on working in the yard after church. It's been such a warm spring...and the rain we got this week has greened everything up....my bleeding heart has been blooming for a few days now.
I must get in the shower and get dressed. Hope your day is good too! Love and prayers, m
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Happy Day!
Good Morning, I'm feeling well, and not having any problems, so I know it's going to be a good day. Most of the women in the family will be joining me for the Women's Club Brunch, and I'm feeling lucky! So hopefully that means we'll win some prizes...even if we don't, just being with the family and friends is a upper for me. Thanks for the many blessings. m
Friday, April 16, 2010
This is the Day!
Off to get my "SPOTLESS" CT scan. I'm wearing my "spotless" T-shirt and feeling great! I got on the scale this morning and I am up 6 lbs from the low of this week. I'm sure it was just water loss. I felt strong and ambitious yesterday, did a lot of cleaning, laundry and organizing. I'm sure also a good sign of a spotless scan.
I need to do a little shopping after the scan today, and then this evening I'll be playing with Matthew and his trains, while his sisters both have hockey. Tomorrow is the Women's Club Brunch and Style Show, so all the women will be joining me for a fun morning, and hopefully come home with a few door prizes or raffle winner.
I want to thank everyone for all the prayers, thoughts, cards, gifts and love you have sent in my direction and for all the spot removers for doing such a good job. Love you all, m
I need to do a little shopping after the scan today, and then this evening I'll be playing with Matthew and his trains, while his sisters both have hockey. Tomorrow is the Women's Club Brunch and Style Show, so all the women will be joining me for a fun morning, and hopefully come home with a few door prizes or raffle winner.
I want to thank everyone for all the prayers, thoughts, cards, gifts and love you have sent in my direction and for all the spot removers for doing such a good job. Love you all, m
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Waiting for the Sun to Come Out!
Yesterday was as close to crashing as I came this round. I fell asleep during the Twins game....but woke up just in time for Cuddyer's home run. Unfortunately they didn't win, but what I saw was a good game. A little rain must fall....without a roof!....but they played through it....and no one seemed to care.
I continued to have problems with diarrhea all evening, even though I remembered my meds in the morning and even took an Imodium at dinner time. But luckily when I got on the scale this morning, I was up 2 lbs for the low of this round. Still about 8 lbs to regain, but I seem to be able to do that without too much problem.
Even though I had a nap during the game I went to bed right after the news. Diarrhea takes a lot out of me....as far as energy goes.
I had a wonderful morning at the college. So much fun to see all those I used to work with (my work family). I really miss that part my life....but I do love retirement too. I got to see the widow who 3 years ago, after Gene died told me her philosophy was "you can sit and feel sorry for yourself, or you can get up and do something about it" and I've lived by that ever since. I reminded her of that, and we had a great hug!
The funny part of the morning, was that 3 of us were wearing the same pair of shoes, and another said she had some....but wasn't wearing them today. So that shows you how much we were family....we all think a like. None of the four of us are even working in the same office anymore.....how strange is that.
They are warning everyone about the allergies this week....I really need to work in the yard, but with all my allergies, I don't know if I dare. I may have to use a mask. They even say we should change clothes and shower when you come in! I never thought about all that. No wonder I have so many problems!
Tomorrow is my CT scan....so I probably won't write till I get home or later in the morning. Love and prayers, m
I continued to have problems with diarrhea all evening, even though I remembered my meds in the morning and even took an Imodium at dinner time. But luckily when I got on the scale this morning, I was up 2 lbs for the low of this round. Still about 8 lbs to regain, but I seem to be able to do that without too much problem.
Even though I had a nap during the game I went to bed right after the news. Diarrhea takes a lot out of me....as far as energy goes.
I had a wonderful morning at the college. So much fun to see all those I used to work with (my work family). I really miss that part my life....but I do love retirement too. I got to see the widow who 3 years ago, after Gene died told me her philosophy was "you can sit and feel sorry for yourself, or you can get up and do something about it" and I've lived by that ever since. I reminded her of that, and we had a great hug!
The funny part of the morning, was that 3 of us were wearing the same pair of shoes, and another said she had some....but wasn't wearing them today. So that shows you how much we were family....we all think a like. None of the four of us are even working in the same office anymore.....how strange is that.
They are warning everyone about the allergies this week....I really need to work in the yard, but with all my allergies, I don't know if I dare. I may have to use a mask. They even say we should change clothes and shower when you come in! I never thought about all that. No wonder I have so many problems!
Tomorrow is my CT scan....so I probably won't write till I get home or later in the morning. Love and prayers, m
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The Sun is Back to Greet Me!
Was afraid I'd crash last nite....but did pretty well....except for problems with diarrhea....due to my own fault. I somehow in rushing out of the house for the early appointment at the cabin with the builder, I forgot to take my morning meds.....which includes an antidiarrheal. I have been taking one each morning to stay ahead of the chemo effects, but it wasn't till late in the afternoon when I changed my bag as scheduled.....that the fun began. First bag didn't hold an hour....but second time I did a better job, and it held, but the diarrhea then caused the problems....needless to say I took my meds as soon as I realized what I had done, and started eating fiber to bulk me up...So I'm not back to normal yet....but it's better.....well enough potty mouth talk!!!! Sorry about that....but I need to vent too! The Sun is back out this morning, and I'm sure today will be a great day. I get to go to the college and see old friends and say goodbye to my dear friend and Qigong master Sheila Judd, who is leaving to work more closely with Chunyi Lin, as is marketing director. She is perfect for the position, but I will miss being able to run up to the college to see her.
Ordered a Survey for the cabin property yesterday afternoon, so we are moving forward on the bidding process. I hope the bids come in at a point that we can work with them. I'm afraid we won't beable to afford my dream. But even if they can just frame it up and we work on it piece meal I think we will go ahead with it. It just may take a lot longer than we had hoped. Wish me luck. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, it's nights like the last one, that I know you are all out there praying and sending me God's blessings. Love and prayers, m
Ordered a Survey for the cabin property yesterday afternoon, so we are moving forward on the bidding process. I hope the bids come in at a point that we can work with them. I'm afraid we won't beable to afford my dream. But even if they can just frame it up and we work on it piece meal I think we will go ahead with it. It just may take a lot longer than we had hoped. Wish me luck. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, it's nights like the last one, that I know you are all out there praying and sending me God's blessings. Love and prayers, m
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Cold and Damp with a Promise of 70's!
Was a cool, windy morning at the cabin, but we did get to talk to another builder and he sounds promising as well. We also ordered a survey of the property and checked out when the Township and county boards met, to see if we can get this started this Spring, rather than waiting till Fall....so we'll see what happens when the numbers start coming in....that will tell the tale!
I got on the scale this a.m. and having dropped anymore weight, but didn't gain any either....so I guess that is good. I didn't crash last nite, so I'm wondering if I will get really tired this evening....but maybe since I am so much stronger that won't even happen.....we can only hope....I wouldn't want to fall asleep in the middle of Biggest Loser!
Nothing else to report....as is well on the home front! Love and prayers, m
I got on the scale this a.m. and having dropped anymore weight, but didn't gain any either....so I guess that is good. I didn't crash last nite, so I'm wondering if I will get really tired this evening....but maybe since I am so much stronger that won't even happen.....we can only hope....I wouldn't want to fall asleep in the middle of Biggest Loser!
Nothing else to report....as is well on the home front! Love and prayers, m
Monday, April 12, 2010
Hello Sunshine!
It turned out to be a great morning at the cabin, they had predicted rain, but not a drop....even had lots of sun on the deck. Met with two different builders....first one sounds promising, the second was really way above us and I'm pretty sure his bid will be double what the others are. I'm sure he does fantastic work, but is used to the million dollar builds on Lake Sylvia.....not our blue collar class. But it was nice talking to both of them.....we meet with the third tomorrow, and I think he will be sorta in the middle between the first two.
I had a wonderful afternoon and evening last nite with Rosie and friends....was a great evening of great friend, good conversation and fantastic food.....what's not to like? Thanks Rosie and Bruce for hosting and cooking.
I am still feeling great, no crash or even low points yet....maybe tonite if it is going to happen. I feel strong, althougth the scale was down another pound this morning, even though I ate like a piggy at Rosie's. Looking forward to having the scan on Friday and hearing only good news on Tuesday.
Also, thank you God for the sunshine and for not raining out the Twins home opener in their brand new outdoor stadium....I'm sure Ann and Wendy are pleased with that too! Love and prayers, m
I had a wonderful afternoon and evening last nite with Rosie and friends....was a great evening of great friend, good conversation and fantastic food.....what's not to like? Thanks Rosie and Bruce for hosting and cooking.
I am still feeling great, no crash or even low points yet....maybe tonite if it is going to happen. I feel strong, althougth the scale was down another pound this morning, even though I ate like a piggy at Rosie's. Looking forward to having the scan on Friday and hearing only good news on Tuesday.
Also, thank you God for the sunshine and for not raining out the Twins home opener in their brand new outdoor stadium....I'm sure Ann and Wendy are pleased with that too! Love and prayers, m
Sunday, April 11, 2010
It's Gonna be a Good day!
The sun is shining, and they are talking near 70 today and more to come all week. My bleeding hearts are almost a foot high and many other flowers across the back of the house are up. The grass is turning green, and I'm sure Spring has sprung!!
A slight low is I had to go out and buy a new scale yesterday, and I think I could have just gotten buy with a new battery for it.....however I don't know where to fine it in the scale....so I got a new one....as I haven't been able to check my weight for a couple of days. When I did get on the scale this morning, I am down 5 lbs. not too bad, that was my starting weight for round 3, so hopefully I will hold strong and gain back at least 3 or 4 of them....then I'd be at my normal weight.
I have to get in the shower and get ready for church, then this afternoon I have that dinner party at Rosie and Bruces home....so it will be a Good day! Love and Prayers, m
A slight low is I had to go out and buy a new scale yesterday, and I think I could have just gotten buy with a new battery for it.....however I don't know where to fine it in the scale....so I got a new one....as I haven't been able to check my weight for a couple of days. When I did get on the scale this morning, I am down 5 lbs. not too bad, that was my starting weight for round 3, so hopefully I will hold strong and gain back at least 3 or 4 of them....then I'd be at my normal weight.
I have to get in the shower and get ready for church, then this afternoon I have that dinner party at Rosie and Bruces home....so it will be a Good day! Love and Prayers, m
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Good Morning Sunshine!
I had Janet take my picture yesterday before I got unplugged, and some close ups of my beautiful "Solar Power" quilt from Rita. So I will be including them in this blog....however everytime I say at right, or above or below....they always turn up somewhere else....so I'll just say in this blog.
I had a great day yesterday, Janet and I ran some errands and had a great time together, as usual. I'm feeling pretty positive the spots are gone, and I am feeling strong. I can't tell you if I've lost weight today, as I can't get my scale to work....I'll have to get myself a new one this morning. I've been fighting with it all week to get it to turn on....maybe I just need a new battery or something. But I'm guessing I'm down a few pounds like usual, but I will gain it back next week.
I have a movie planned for this afternoon with friends Lois and Bonnie, and tomorrow dinner at my former boss's home with a group of all former bosses and a former student worker.....should be a fun afternoon. Monday I meet with 2 builders and Tuesday a 3rd to get bids on an addition to the cabin. So we'll see where that goes. Well guess I better get dressed and get moving. Love and prayers, m
Friday, April 9, 2010
Last Day of Round 4
Today I get unplugged and then next week I'll have the CT scan and they will find all the spots gone! Janet is going with me and I'm wearing my "Spotless Shirt" ....and I'll wear it again next week when I have the scan. Lucky charm I hope! But I know your prayers have been strong and often and I have felt the Lords blessing flowing through me. The sun has shone brightly on me for the last two months or more, and I'm sure the results will be good.
I continued to hold my weight yesterday....I don't remember how fast it fell last time, but it seems like a good thing. Constance has been behaving....I also am Leary of saying that....I'm afraid I will jinx myself. I'm sure your prayers have helped her too!
Janet and I may do some shopping this afternoon, I need a few groceries and I have to pick up my photos from the trip.....also drop off a present for my granddaughter who has been waiting for a month for it to arrive. Love that snail mail!!!
Not much else to report! I'm feeling well! Love and prayers to all of you. m
I continued to hold my weight yesterday....I don't remember how fast it fell last time, but it seems like a good thing. Constance has been behaving....I also am Leary of saying that....I'm afraid I will jinx myself. I'm sure your prayers have helped her too!
Janet and I may do some shopping this afternoon, I need a few groceries and I have to pick up my photos from the trip.....also drop off a present for my granddaughter who has been waiting for a month for it to arrive. Love that snail mail!!!
Not much else to report! I'm feeling well! Love and prayers to all of you. m
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Partly Sunny and Cold
I'm sure that the 37 degrees on the thermoeter will go up, but in Florida this morning it is 78. So Florida still wins in that department, but atleast the sun is shining in my living room.
I spent most of yesterday on Chemo, so this morning I spent on catching up on bill paying and dealing with the weeks worth of mail I received while I in Florida. But I think I'm caught up on the snail mail and email too!
So on to a summary of my vacation. We had glorious weather all week, I'm sure sent by all of you. We spent both Tuesdays traveling and the six days inbetween we divided between the theme parks and water parks....3 days at each. We would spend one day at a couple of theme parks, and the next relaxing at the water park. So I was able to stay strong and only rented a motorized cart the first day and found it more trouble than it was worth....only hit a few garbage cans and a few door jams...but I didn't run over one toe....so I was proud of that. The rest of the week I did not rent one and was able to keep up with everyone till around 8 p.m., cept for one night when I quite around 6 p.m. but that was the last day at theme parks on Easter Sunday, and I had gotten up at 6 a.m. for Easter Mass at 8 a.m., so I was tired a lot earlier. I also had a good book that I was reading, and enjoyed the alone time to read. Everyone got along so well all week, and Matthew was a real trooper and seeing the parks through his eyes was priceless. It was truely a Magical Kingdom for him. See pictures at right: Don't have one with everyone in it....but a few highlights of the week.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
I'm Back and so is the Sun!
The sun followed me to Florida last week and shined everyday brightly.....then I returned last evening to rain and this morning the sun is back shining bright again!!! I know it is because of all your prayers for me. Thank you so much!
This morning my good friend (I almost said old....but Rita is younger that me by a few months, so I couldn't say that) Rita Culshaw came and picked me up to take me to my 4th and last round of chemo. She came a few minutes early as she said she had a present for me.....and what a gift it was. She spent the winter in Florida in that cold rainy weather....so she made me this beautiful quilt.....she the pictures above:
On a label on the bottom it reads:
"Solar Power"
Made especially for
Mary Kiecker
by Rita Culshaw (owner of spot #36)
with prayers and positive thoughts. March, 2010
It is so beautiful, and I and Rita are sure that spot #36 and maybe a few of friends is for sure gone. I can't thank Rita enough for this thoughtful, beautiful, and creative gift.
Rita then spent the morning with me at the HHH Cancer Center, and we talked continuously all morning and after they hooked me up to the pump and sent me on my way about 1:15 p.m. we headed to Applebees and had lunch....then back to my house to show her the lap quilt that the grandkids made me for my 60th birthday a few years back. She was just as impressed with that quilt as I was with the one she made me. They both are lovely.
The doctor said this morning, that they would look at the CT scan I have next Friday the 16th and consult with me on the 20th where we go from here. If the cancer is completely gone they would maybe send me back to Mayo for the surgery they wanted me to have in the first place....and if not completely gone....but considerably, they will start me on another round of chemo. So I won't know till the 20th how well all those prayers have done on those spots....but I do plan on wearing my "Spotless" T-shirt on Friday when they on plug me, and again next week when I have the CT scan. Rita and I both told Dr. Londer we thought the spots were gone....or atleast #36 was gone for sure. I don't know if he believed us.....but we feel positive about that!
Sorry it's been so long since I blogged, but I did not have access to a computer atDisney ....and can't believe that they didn't even have a few computers for guest use in the lobby. They charged $10. per day for internet hook-up in your room, and then it wasn't even WI-FI....Jimbo had to plug in at the bed side table....not the desk across the room....real convienient.....I can't believe they don't have all the Disney grounds set up with WIFI.....especially in this day and age. I will add pictures from the trip in the days to come. I had a wonderful time....and loved seeing Disney through the eyes of my four-year-old grandson Matthew. Priceless. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow. Love, m
Made especially for
Mary Kiecker
by Rita Culshaw (owner of spot #36)
with prayers and positive thoughts. March, 2010
It is so beautiful, and I and Rita are sure that spot #36 and maybe a few of friends is for sure gone. I can't thank Rita enough for this thoughtful, beautiful, and creative gift.
Rita then spent the morning with me at the HHH Cancer Center, and we talked continuously all morning and after they hooked me up to the pump and sent me on my way about 1:15 p.m. we headed to Applebees and had lunch....then back to my house to show her the lap quilt that the grandkids made me for my 60th birthday a few years back. She was just as impressed with that quilt as I was with the one she made me. They both are lovely.
The doctor said this morning, that they would look at the CT scan I have next Friday the 16th and consult with me on the 20th where we go from here. If the cancer is completely gone they would maybe send me back to Mayo for the surgery they wanted me to have in the first place....and if not completely gone....but considerably, they will start me on another round of chemo. So I won't know till the 20th how well all those prayers have done on those spots....but I do plan on wearing my "Spotless" T-shirt on Friday when they on plug me, and again next week when I have the CT scan. Rita and I both told Dr. Londer we thought the spots were gone....or atleast #36 was gone for sure. I don't know if he believed us.....but we feel positive about that!
Sorry it's been so long since I blogged, but I did not have access to a computer at
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