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 at Disney....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

This is the Day!

....the Lord Has Made. Wow what a beautiful day.....and now I have to leave and go to Florida! It better be as nice there. I looked at the 10 day forecast and it looks good there too! So I have high hopes of the Sun Shining on me everyday.
Yesterday I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the First Friday group of women I dine with monthly, were meeting at Good Earth near Rosedale. I had nothing keeping me from joining them and was so pleased as the last two months I was unable to join in the dining and conversation of a great group of women. I worked with all of them at St. Tim's years ago (a lot of years ago) and we started by having dinner on the First Friday of the month so we donned that name.....but as you note....yesterday was a Monday....we no longer meet on Friday much less the first one of each month.
I ran errands early in the day and then left home at 5 p.m. heading for Rosedale thinking I would be able to find Good Earth without a problem....WRONG. I drove all around Rosedale which is no easy task in itself. Then I parked and picked up my Blackberry and tried to find it online....but Google wasn't working....so I had to turn it off and reboot it. But then a young man pulled up and I opened the window and asked him if he knew where Good Earth was, but he didn't. He pulled out his Iphone, and finally found it, and showed me on a map that it was on Hwy 36 and it the quick glance looked like it was kiddy corner across from Rosedale....I'm thinking near Snelling and 36 area.....so I drive over there....and end up on 36 and Hamlin on the North side of the highway to no avail....so I find another place to park and pull out the Blackberry again, and this time I find Good Earth and I actually call them and ask them how to get there. The women told me to go back west on 36 to Fairview and then go to the Frontage Rd.....well from Hamlin and 36 you can't get back on 36 going west....so I went back to Cty Rd B2 and took that back across to Fairview and then headed to the Frontage Rd and took that all the way back to Snelling again to no avail. So I then finally decided that it must be on the other side of 36 and drove back to Fairview and headed to the other side of the highway and finally found them....it was no 5:55. The group had given up on me and finally ordered and got their food shortly after I arrived.....but I did have a great meal and great conversation as usual with that group. The hunt and frustration was well worth the end.
I returned home and finished readying myself for the trip....talking to Annie about the meeting spot and seating arrangements and luggage etc. They will take all the checked luggage and bring it directly to my room at Disney....how great is that. I won't have to lug it from baggage pickup to the shuttle bus and then up to my room.....how great it that?! To me that is priceless! Now if they would do that on the return it would be even better. But then this voice tells me "Don't push it pig!"
My health was great yesterday and I'm great again today, and I'm sure I will be great tomorrow. Thank you for all those prayers, and I'll try and update you during the next week on how great I am then too! Love and prayers, m

Oh What a Beautiful Morning

The sun is shining and they are predicting warm and sunny all week. I'm sure Florida will be just as nice. One more sleep!
Yesterday was a day of problems with Constance, and I can't really explain why, but I was just sitting watching TV and playing Spider on the computer and I just sprung a leak...then during the nite 4:30 a.m. I was laying on my back and my hand noticed a wet spot on my pj's and sure enough another leak in almost the same spot as yesterday afternoon. I have two different style bags, and I was wearing the one I thought was the best both times (changing my thoughts on that a little). I really can't figure out why. I may have rolled onto it while sleeping, but I don't think I did. It may be I didn't do a good job of putting it on in the first place. We'll see if this one stays 3 days like it is supposed to. We can only hope. I was looking forward to Constance behaving this week in Florida...I may have to change my statement of yesterday regarding suffering! Just kidding!!!
I will not be taking my computer to Florida with me, however, Jimbo and Doug will both have theirs, and I do have my Blackberry so I can read email and respond. I will try and keep you all updated as the week goes on, but don't promise a morning update....I may switch to evenings, and may not make it each evening. But I will do my best. Fair warning. Love and prayers, m

You Are My Sunshine!

Good Morning, I forgot to mention yesterday that it was my mom's birthday! and it was a Happy Day! I got on the scale this morning, and I am back to 140, the first time in over 2 1/2 months. Whoohoo!! I'm sure I will be in great shape for Florida. Only complaint is the partly cloudy 10 day forcast for Disney.....but it will be in the upper 70's and low 80's.....so I guess it will be more sun than clouds.
Last nite I went to a performance of "There Stands the Cross" at a local church, and was so impressed with the music and voices they have. Between that and the sermon this morning, of Jesus asking us to join in his suffering, made me ponder the last few months, and I guess in January I might have thought of this as suffering, but today, I look back and it's just kind of a bump in the road of life. The colostomy is an inconvenience but definitely not suffering...all your prayers have bestowed so many blessings on me I could hardly consider it suffering. So hopefully even though I don't now consider it as suffering, I am joining in it with Jesus, and walking in the journey of faith. Love and prayers, m

Three Days to Florida

I can't believe they are predicting 70s in MN as soon as I leave for 70s in Florida. What's up with that? I think God wants you to enjoy the Sunshine too! I wonder if all your prayers for sunshine for me, have led to the first ever March without a drop of snow....and one of the warmest March's in history? Thank you God for blessing me and all my spot removers.
I had an accident with Constance during the nite....some how I rolled onto my stomach and blew the seal on her. I was supposed to change it this morning anyway, so that wasn't so bad. But I will make another note to self: No sleeping on your stomach. I may not be fat, but 138 lbs of weight on a plastic bag will pop it. Kinda like sitting on a balloon. I'd win every time.
My sinus's still seam to be running, but my head dosn't hurt and my eyes are not watering, so I think the antibiotics are doing their job, and I've warded off the diarrhea most of the week. Didn't gain anything yesterday, but I did hold at 138.6. So I continue to eat and grow stronger each day. Love and blessings for all, m

Chilly Start to a Nice Day

I know you won't believe that I was up, showered and dressed by 8:30 this morning, and am just getting around to my blog at 11....but it's true. Jimbo came and we went over plans we each had drawn up for an addition to the cabin. Exciting to talk about...but will be even more exciting when it actually happens. Long way to go before that, but so fun to dream!
I am feeling so much better each day, and I'm gaining back my weight so am sure Florida will be a great get-a-way. My sinus's are still dripping, but that is improving too....I will be getting a mask to wear on the plane and in the airport. I may look silly, but in the long run I don't want to take any chances of getting sick again. I also got 50 spf lotion to wear, as one of the chemo drugs makes me sensitive to the sun....how ironic is that? The sun makes me feel so good.....I want to soak up as much as possible. So I'm almost all packed and I still have 4 days to wait. Do I sound excited? I am, 7 out of 11 grandkids will be with me at DisneyWorld....How Lucky am I? m

Oh What a Beautiful Morning

Seems I'm on the road to recovery, gained another couple of pounds and I am only down 1 pound from where I started on round 3 of the chemo. Eating non-stop will do that to you. My eyes are clearing back to whites instead of reds, and I feel pretty good. Have lots of energy, and am working on the packing thing and putting together my "Chances Are" donation to the annual North Suburban Women's Club Brunch (April 17). Need to do a little more shopping for that today, and then some groceries and I will have completed my "To Do" list for the day.
The sun is shining.....even though it's not that warm today, I don't mind the cold if the sun is shining. I can feel your prayers working! m

On the Mend!

One day of gigantic horse pills (see picture...that is an aspirin so you can see how big it is.) and I am feeling better....my eye is still pink, but not the watering red mess it was yesterday. It almost looks normal, my sinus ran all day yesterday, but seems like less pressure today....still running though. I did manage to gain about 3 pounds sitting on the couch and eating all day! So some good came of the day for sure!! The chicken and dumplings I made for dinner helped too!
The person I wanted kicked off Biggest Loser since day one finally got the boot, so Janet and I were both happy about that....adding to the good for the day.
Today I may venture out and do some shopping, and work on the packing again....yesterday, I added and subtracted several things, weeding out what I didn't think I'd need or actually wear, and checking the weather report for Orlando....looks like 70's for sure. I can't wait for that warm sun...heating my solar panels and removing all those spots. Love, m

Antibiotics to the Rescue!

As the day progressed, the sinus thing progressed, as well, so I waved the white flag and called the doctor for help!! It was almost 5 p.m. before they called back and told me they were going to give me a prescription for antibiotics....so too late to pick up till morning. By the time I went to bed last nite my eye had also become inflamed and watering, so I was glad I made the decision to call the doctor when I did. I went right away this morning and picked up the prescription along with some eye drops, so hopefully I'll now be on the mend....and will be well and strong for Florida...I leave in one week. Funny thing the pharmacist told me that the drug needed to be taken with food, and could cause diarrhea, I told him, that I was already dealing with that with my chemo, so I knew what to do. Like I needed anything else to cause diarrhea. I guess I'll just up the doses of the Imodium....so I'm not chasing it.
No big plans for the day....I guess I'll just take care of myself and eat as often as needed to put some pounds back on this body. I am up almost 2 pound from the low of this round of chemo, so it is going back up. Highlight of the day will be watching "The Biggest Loser" and calling Janet during commercials and discussing who we think is going to be kicked off this week. Strange to be watching the Biggest Loser and trying to gain weight at the same time.....I guess I can also find something to eat during the commercials! m

One Step Forward.....Two Back!

I guess I spoke too soon, when I said that Constance (my appendage hanging from my side) was becoming a friend.....wrong! I suppose it was the jelly beans I ate that caused the diarrhea and the excess gas....(sugar does that to me)...but I had problems emptying the pouch twice, and had to change clothes, then later in the afternoon, somehow blew the seal of it (too much gas)....and had to again change the pouch completely...so much for bragging about not doing that for two weeks.
As the day went on I began to feel the sinus thing coming on, and worked hard to combat that....Janet suggested honey and Cinnamon in hot water....so I drank a big cup of that, ate a few vitamin C hard candy as well as some Halls cough drops, and even took a few Eccanasia tablets before bed. But I do feel somewhat better this morning, and my Constance hung on all nite. I suppose that is what I get for bragging!!! I'll try to keep that in tow.
Today I have big plans....my hair needs cut and coloring before I go to Florida....so that is first on my list....then I have lunch and dinner plans with friends from the college....the retiree and wannabees group. The sun is shining so I'm hoping it will give me strength and it will be a Happy Day! m

Busy Sunday Morning

Sorry, I'm so late in updating today....busy...busy....day!! Started by picking up my friend Carol Kline for church.....I hadn't seen her since January, and was happy to have the company for Mass and breakfast after. Love having breakfast with the Buhrs as well, and had great conversation. Then I had my Lenten study group, and continued the great conversations with that group. I am so blessed to have such great friends who share my love for God and support me in my spot removal project.
I didn't even crash a little this time....I'd think it would have gotten worse each time as the chemo accummulated in my system, but not so....I seemed to handle it better each time....but maybe that is because of the gaining of weight and having more strength to fight it with.
I changed by pouch (Constance) this morning, and I am entirely healed round my stoma, so I shouldn't have any problems with it sealing, or not sealing....keeping the bag emptied is my only challenge now....not a problem usually, but when I tend to wait to long inbetween and gas builds up....that's when I have a big problem....just have to not wait quite so long.....lesson to myself!!! So all is well on the home front....my mind is starting to wander toward thoughts of sun and the sea of Florida. Started packing yesterday. Love and prayers, m

Welcome Back Sunshine

It may be freezing out, but we say goodbye to winter today, and the Sun is shinning....so all is good! I slept so good last night, and feeling strong this morning.
God to watch Matthew yesterday afternoon, but he was so tired from all week with Presley, that he slept the whole three hours he was here. He'll be back this afternoon and I'm sure we can play trains then.
Got a wonderful card full of Sunshine from the Hauge family...in the snail mail, and got a long email from Karen on the computer, along with a call from Loretta (mom) this week, so I know that is why my chemo went so well.....with family like this....how can I lose....Of course I have to fear the wrath of Loretta kicking my butt if I don't get well.
On to packing for Florida mood, and gaining back my weight once again....I think I got back 2 pounds last nite.....it seems that even with out diahrrea I seem to drop about 5 pounds during those few days of treatment, and then have to crawl back up, but each round I have crawled back and added a few. So hopefully I will be back to my original weight by the time I go to Florida. The bowl of jelly beans, along with some hearty food should help.
Love and prayers, m

Cloudy, Cloudy Day and Cold

Spring must have sprung back to winter this morning. BRRRRR!!! I didn't sleep well last nite, but I did plan the remodeling of the cabin, new roof line and entry way etc. Got lots done while lying there.
I'm not doing good in the weight department either....haven't had diarrhea all week, but still the weight falls during the chemo....hopefully I will jump back up next week, like I have the others.
Tom and Presley leave this morning, so that is sad....and I'm off to a funeral....even sadder. Not a good way to start my day. Hopefully I won't crash this evening....that would top it off.
I'll really miss my craft buddy. Had a lot of fun this week, between Presley and Matthew....also got a lot of stuff of the kids moved out of the house....I might be baseball card free, coin free, and stamp free. Can't believe it. Love and prayers, m

Pictures from the old Camp Snoopy

Good Morning Sunshine!

The sun is shining today and I'm feeling super!! I changed my pouch "Constance" this morning, she was true to form and kept spewing while trying to get the new bag on, but not a problem, I'm almost 100% healed around the stoma, and had no blood showing at all....so that is fantastic, I'm on my way!!! Me and Constance are becoming friends.
On my way to the MOA with son Tom and two grandkids, Matthew and Presley....should be a good time....Tom just returned from Nelson Park with them, and now we are off.
Hope to add some pictures later in the day! m

Day three, Round three....YIPPEE!!!!

I get unplugged at 11 a.m. this morning, and I am going through this round with almost no side effects (well I'm on enough anti-nausea pills, anti diarrhea pills and have plenty of sunshine to void off any bad effects) I am eating and drinking my 2 quarts of water, and I have had no blow-outs of my pouch (Constance) for almost 2 weeks now. The skin around it is almost all healed...maybe 90%. So I think I am definitely on a healing path. You all are doing a good job of getting me there.
Yesterday Presley and I did crafts all afternoon, making Easter cards, some of you may be lucky enough to get one....but I think we only have ten sort of usable ones. But we had fun anyway. Tom and I are still working on the coins and have started looking at the stamps. Didn't find a pot of gold, but we did find a handful of Irish coins and a couple Irish paper money....I'm sending that home with him to his Irish kids. Happy St. Patrick's Day to all those who have a little Irish in them....I only have grand kids with Irish....All German and Austrian/Hungarian in me.
Had a quiet evening, as Tom met a friend for dinner and Presley went to Matthews house to play. But I did get a call from Aunt Loretta, and she is again threatening to kick my butt! I told her she didn't have to cause I was doing really well.
Thank you all for those thoughts and prayers and all that sunshine directed at me.
Love and prayers, m
Pictures of me and Presley all dressed up for St. Patricks Day.

Day two, Round Three

After two beautiful days of sun....it seems to be drizzling this morning, but the weather man said the sun may be back after noon.....we can only hope! I know I'm greedy when it comes to sunny days.....but they make me feel so good. Of course Tom and Presley brought their Sunny faces on Sunday nite, and escorted me to chemo yesterday. Presley continues to entertain me, and make the time go by so much faster. Yesterday Tom and I dug out the coin collection that Gene bought from Grandpa, and we searched ebay to find out what kind of value we had on our hands, and by the time I went to bed last nite, Tom had the magnifying glass and a coffee can of wheat pennys and he was searching through to make sure grandpa and Gene didn't miss anything good....he reported he found a steel penny in the can, but nothing else of value other than being a wheat penny which I think are worth 2 cents. But all in all I think we do have some good stuff and plan on selling it for the cabin fund.
We were able to skype Chicago twice yesterday and Presley loved this....she told her brother, sister and mom how much she missed them, but she wasn't coming home for a bunch of days. I'm sure the feeling was mutual for them missing Presley and Tom as well.
Matthew spent the afternoon playing with Presley, and the new train tracks she and William gave to him. The whole living room was set up with tracks going everywhere. They had much fun playing together, and decided they were each others favorite cousin. I think Presley gets to play at Matthews this evening.
Annie spent the evening of her birthday with Tom and I, and had a fancy dinner for one at the drive threw at MacDonalds....yum.yum. Then she dragged Matthew home so she could see her husband and Nicole and Allie. Hope she had a happy day despite the restraints of work and family. I love her!!!
Well, I guess you want to know how I'm doing, and I am just fine....one comment on facebook was that I was one tough lady....I guess I am. Chemo doesn't get me down. Just rain! So keep those sunny prayers coming my way. Love and prayers, m

Round 3 day 1

Good Morning, well I guess it is afternoon, still at the HHH Cancer Center having the beginning of the chemo pumped in. I sent Tom and Presley for Subway for lunch, and they just returned. Should be here another hour and then I'll be home for the next 46 hours, after that,having it pumped into me. Everything is going well...feeling good and the sun is shinning. Love and prayers, m

The Sun and the Son are shinning!

I was sitting here after church, trying to decide what title to put on this posting, and the Sun started to shine.....I haven't seen it in days, but it gave me an immediate boost! I'm smiling!!! I didn't have to imagine it.
I'm feeling really good now, and am ready for an amazing day....first Lenten Study Group at 1 p.m......we have such an amazing group and this year the topic is prayer....right up my alley. Then at about 5 p.m. Tom and Presley (3 yr. old granddaughter) arrive from Chicago....I'm so excited....I get to play with Pres all week. Then we head to Katie's birthday party (14 yr. old granddaughter) her birthday was on the second, but they are celebrating with the family this afternoon. Then when we finish celebrating for Katie, Annie gets to celebrate too, as her birthday is tomorrow. We plan on skyping those Chicago family that didn't get to come up with Tom and Presley, so at least they can see the rest of us, and join in on singing Happy Birthday to Annie and Katie.
Tomorrow I start round 3 of Chemo, and then I don't have to do round 4 till I come back from Florida, so after Wednesday when they unplug me, I'll be in the packing and getting ready for Florida mode. I've done Easter in Boston with the family...in the first Catholic Church built there....I wonder what we will find in Florida.
Hope you all have a great day, Love and prayers, m

Renewing Friendships

Every evening I await the notice in my mailbox of caringbridge updates. I read two sites, one written by my cousin Judy on the long progress back to health of her husband Frank Vermuellen, which I know many of you also read. The other is that of my cousin on my dad's side of the family, Louie Grams. Louie is the son of my dad's sister Loni and her husband Pat Grams. As I was growing up, I had lots of contact with Louie (then Little Pat) all the way through high school....but then marriage and family dwindled it to Christmas letters and funerals...and he has also moved to Colorado Springs, Co. This year when I received their Christmas letter, it contained his email address and the link to his caringbridge site. I didn't start reading it immediately, but I did email him, and immediately got a response back...like within an hour. We continued to renew our friendship, and I at some point decided to check out his caringbridge site (louieg) and now look forward to reading it each evening. Yesterday, I decided to send Louie some pictures of his parents and grandparents, and one of my dad and his mom. Things I thought he might enjoy seeing, that had been stuck in an old photo album for no one to see and love. I also told Louie of my blog, and how we had so many things in common. Our "specialness", how we have experiences in medicine the opposite of most. That we were both considered miracles to our family and friends. I shared with him a little background in my health and my faith that God was with me, and I experienced it in the love and prayers of my family and friends. So last night in reading his diary, I found myself the topic of it, and he invited all his readers to join in the prayers for me, and ended his writing with the following paragraph:
"My cousin, Mary, and I were reflecting today on the fact that experiencing God's healing power even multiple times in our lives does not mean that we will not experience more sickness or pain, but it does give us confidence and faith in dealing with sickness and pain that could not come any other way. It is not so hard to go through hard things when you know the Lord is there and you experience his presence and care through so many good people."
So even though the clouds are still in the sky, the sun is shining on me.
Last night I helped celebrate Wendy Culley's 40th and I think I got a hug from everyone there that I knew....and that was a lot! Just another reinforcement of that sunshine. So all in all it was a great day! Love and prayers, m

The Son is Shining

First thing I did this morning was to get on the scale.....yippeeeee....I'm two pounds up from my round 2 start day. So slowly but surely I am getting back to my normal weight....only five pounds to go!!!
I have some shopping planned for the day....some photo scanning...some of my dads old photos...a shower...and a few other fun things. The Son is shining on me....even though it is still grey outside, your prayers continue to bless me. Love, m

Thunder and Pouring Rain

I think I must have SAD, it's grey and it actually thundered and poured rain this morning, I'm still in my pjs and doing nothing. I have to get dressed for a lunch date, thank goodness, or I'd be in my jamies all day. Some one suggested I sing, but the only song that came to mind was "Rain, Rain, go away, Come again another day".
Maybe getting out of the house will help....I know some great conversation and laughs will help. I strongly dislike rainy days!! (I'm getting in practice for next week when my son and granddaughter Presley will be with me for chemo round 3) Can't use the word "hate" in their house, but strongly dislike isn't enough....maybe very strongly dislike will work better. I know that just having them here, even if the sun isn't shining outside, will make it shine in my house!! Presley will keep me smiling all week. Sorry Tom, you will too!
So I'm off to get dressed and turn this day around. Love and prayers, m

Rain, rain go away!

Sorry I'm so slow in updating the blog today, I actually have been up and busy since 7 a.m. I had a great night sleep, probably due to the lack of the night before. I had a meeting with a financial advisor set up for 8:30 a.m., so I had to shower and dress almost immediately, then ate my oatmeal and drank some coffee.
Had a good meeting, and then went on to doing some computer projects and all of a sudden it was noon and time to eat and then I came back to the computer and it dawned on me that I hadn't updated my blog yet.
Yesterday I was contacted by a man working on his wife's genealogy, and has a connection to Martin Scheiber's son Frank. He forwarded a bunch of his information to me, along with questions and blanks that I might beable to fill in for him. So I am able to also fill in a lot of blanks about Martin's life before he married Theresia Heirt. So that is the project I will be working on this afternoon.
I'm up a pound again today, but haven't gained more than the 10 lbs I had before round 2 of the chemo....so I will also continue to stuff myself again today....wondering if I'll beable to reverse this process when and if I finally get back to my original weight. UGH!! But for now....the food is tasting good, and it is preasurable to eat!!!
That's the update for the day. Keep those thoughts and prayers coming, your love and friendship are the blessings that keep me going. Thank you God, love, m

Foggy, Foggy Day!

I'm sure there is sun somewhere, but it sure isn't here....fog today and rain for the next couple of days, but at least it is warm. On the personal note, my head might be foggy, but the sun is shining trying to burn through it.
I had a great day yesterday, visiting with former student worker Heather and her beautiful children (brilliant children I might add). Then I worked on scanning some more old negatives onto facebook....some turned out great, and others no matter how I tried adjusting them still left a lot to be desired. But was happy to get some pictures I never saw before. I think the negatives must have come from Doris and Ray's photo's, cause it seemed Steve....or Sue Marie was the subject of a lot of them.
As for my health....I had a few vague touches of the cold thing when I was digging in the freezer and I went to be right after the news cause I was yawning so much, but didn't sleep well. Was up at least four times and laid a wake for over an hour and then ended up getting up at 6:20 cause I just couldn't stand being in bed any longer. I didn't take the medicine that I have available which is an anti nausea, but makes you sleepy, so I may go back and take it again tonite! I also may have to take a nap later in the day. I have some shopping to do, and have a date with old friend Mary Brue for early dinner. So we'll see how the day goes!
Maybe I just need some sun!!! Love and prayers m

Spring Showers Bring the Flowers!

Supposed to rain on and off all week, but on the bright side, it will clean up all the dirt and melt all that snow, and soon, those flowers and green grass will be peaking through.
Today, I have company coming, number 4 on my spot remover list!!! Heather was a former student worker, who married, has two children, and managed to get a master's in psyc, and teaches full time at a online college. I'm always so proud when former student workers make it big!!! And I have several on my list that have. Kind of like being a proud mama!! I'm sure her parents had something to do with it, but I'd like to think working in our office with all the strong women had something to do with it.
I made it through the weekend without a crash, did nap yesterday after church, but managed the rest of the day without problem, and today seems like it will go good, as well. I am a few pounds down from last Monday when I started the chemo, but still 7 pounds above my all time low, so I will continue to eat and drink water to bring that weight back up. Have a happy day! Love and prayers, m

You Make Me Happy When Days are Gray!

Cloudy gray day outside, but I know your blessings are making me happy....I made it through the nite without any problems, like crashing or passing out....or my bag giving me problems. So all went well....I'm hoping that today without any steroid (I got 1/2 a pill yesterday) that I will continue to do well....and so far so good. I showered and went to church this morning, and seeing none of my breakfast buddies, I came home and fixed myself a Spanish omelet and am just waiting to go to the Lenten study group meeting at 1 p.m.
Maybe this afternoon, I'll have a chance to scan in some old photo's that cousin Chris (Tina) loaned to me yesterday. Some really cute ones....some good blackmail...some sentimental...most I had never seen before. So I'm excited to show you them. I think I'll post on Facebook. So it will be my Academy Award project.
Love and prayers to you all! m

Wow, the sun is still shining, even though they predict Rain!

It's not going to Rain on my parade....I'm doing well still this a.m., had a good nite sleep, only got up twice and went right back to sleep. I did have an hour of last nite where I couldn't keep my eyes open on the couch, but it didn't effect me as far as sleeping last nite, and I have been able to work on the diarrhea that seems to hit me each Friday of chemo week, with Imodium, worked most of the day yesterday, but needed to take more this morning. Also had a blow out with my bag again this morning....that is a work in progress....but slowly but surely I will master it.
Got a nice long email from a former co-worker and dear friend Mary #1. Yes Mary we need to get together soon....I'll email you.
No big plans for the day....sadly Janet is leaving to go back home, confident her job is done for the week, and I think I have some laundry to do....but need to find something fun, other than cleaning a closet or some dumb thing like that.
Love to hear from all of you, keep those comments coming, either email or facebook, or on my blog...you are my life line....you keep me happy when skys are gray....you are my sunshine. Love and prayers, m

The day got away from me.

I'm sorry, I didn't write this morning....I really thought I had....but no nothing....we started the day slowly...kind of a quiet morning, cleaning and laundry etc. then this afternoon, we went shopping and that was lots of fun. Then on the way home we even stopped and washed the car, but had to wait in line about 1/2 hour but it turned out so nice and shinny clean. So all was well.
Then when I got home I got this nice letter from Sandy (Joe's wife)Thanks Sandy for all the good memories, we did have a lot of fun with your family all through the years. It means a lot to me that you sat down and put that all in writing...Love you and Joe so much.
Then Aunt Loretta (mom) sent me this card saying she was going to kick my butt if I didn't get well....lol, brightened my day too!
This evening I kinda hit the wall again at 8 p.m., and kinda slept through that show, but then I kind of got a second wind, so I guess I'm not going to crash like last time. All is well! Love and prayers, m

Update on Bill and Ed

Ed reported that his surgery went well and he is home....and Carol just called a little while ago, and said they started late and it took longer than she thought....but the doc reports it went well and he is going to be hurting for a while....also Janet and I took Annie to the doctor this afternoon, and it's not gallbladder at all, she has kidney stones....one on each side. They sent her home with x-ray in hand and a prescription for Vicoden, and she see's a urologist in the morning....much relieved that she doesn't need surgery...and it's not anything worse! So it was a great day in Coon Rapids today!!! Love ya all, m

Oh Happy Day!

Got unplugged yesterday, beat Janet five times in Blokus, got sun flowers from Rosie and the sun is shining again today and it's going to be in the 40's in Minnesota! Priceless!! Needless to say, I'm doing so good! Thank you for your blessings.
Talked to John and Flo this morning, and they are doing great, traveling around the country enjoying life. They send their best to everyone, especially me and Bill.
My brother Bill is having his surgery at 11 a.m. this morning, and my daughter Annie seems to be having a gallbladder attack. She had an ultrsound yesterday, and is here with me and Janet this morning, and she is seeing the doctor again at 2 p.m. this afternoon. Janet and I are taking good care of her....since Janet doesn't have to take care of me, I had to give her some work to do....no rest for the wicked!! hehe!
Nothing else new, hope to get some shopping in today and take another walk around the block like yesterday, soaking up that wonderful solar-power! Love and prayers, m

Round Two Day Three

I get unplugged at 11 this morning. Then I'll be half way there....Whoooppee!! That sunshine seems to be doing it's job.....you guys do good work. I'm finally over that sinus thing as well....I barely coughed yesterday, and my sinus's don't feel so puffy.
I was full of energy all day yesterday, did a lot of work in the house....even gathered a whole tub of stamps that were spread out in several closets....my dad was a stamp collector and we bought that collection from him in the late 60's and then Tom and Bill had some interest in them when they were in scouts and got a badge. But they haven't been touched for years. Do I have any stamp collectors out there who might give us a clue as to what they are worth reading this? We need help! Gene was such a collector.
Today, Janet is coming to take me to the unplugging, then we are getting take out at Acapulco, and Rosie Mortenson is joining us at my house. So I'm sure I'll have a lot of laughs with them.
Cousin Ed Huber is supposed to be having surgery today, and tomorrow brother Bill should be having his surgery, so please keep them in your prayers!!! Thank you again for all the thoughts and prayers you are sending my way...everyday it's 40 and the sun is shining bright I'm reminded that you are with me removing those spots. Love ya, m
P.S. Am adding pictures for your amusement. One with my hot pink gloves that I didn't have to wear this time around, one of me this a.m. before the unplugging so you can see how well I look, and one with me and Rosie and the beautiful bouquet of Sunflowers....how appropriate. Enjoy!

Day two, Round two

Sorry I'm so slow in getting here today, but I've been busy cleaning bathrooms, doing laundry and that got side lined looking at some boxes on the basement shelf that Gene had placed there and I had no idea what was in them. I found a few keepsakes, and a lot of coin collecting books etc. that I have put in a box for my son Tom, next time he comes to town.
I'm doing well as you can tell from my energy level above. The new recipe of drugs seems to be a lot better than the first. Still have some vag response to cold, but nothing like it was last time.
Jimbo spent the day with me yesterday and left me on my own for the evening, but I talked to Annie twice and Jimbo as well, so they are all checking up on me, and I took my phone to bed with me just in case. Tomorrow morning, Janet will come and take me to get unplugged, then lunch planned with Rosie Mortenson, and then Janet will stay till Saturday morning, as last time it was the end of the week that I really needed help....not the beginning....but we've learned that I really needed that help on Friday nite last time. They will also be weaning me off the steroid. I take two a day T-Th, then 1 on Friday, and 1/2 of one on Saturday....so we'll see how that works. Tomorrow I will try and report before I get unplugged, as after that I will have company, and wouldn't get to it till late in the day. Talk to you then. Love and prayers, m
P.S. almost forgot, I got the most beautiful Angel in the mail from Bonnie Sass who had to go to Sedona alone this year....boohoo...but she is thinking of me, and went to that beautiful chapel in the Rocks and bought the angel there. See also lit a cvanfle for me by the altar and next to that big front window so I could see the red rocks! Love you so much Bonnie, sure wish I was there with you, but we'll be together next winter for sure!!! Hopefully we can do the Destin thing then.

Round Two

Good Morning, I am all hooked up and they are running the chemo in for the next 2 hours....will be done at 1 pm
They checked me over and drew blood etc. before I started this a.m., and all my blood levels were in the normal range except for HBL and Platelets, but they both were barely below normal and not low enough that they would not give me chemo. They also have adjusted the amount of one of the chemo drugs 20% less than last time, so I shouldn't have as much of a reaction to the cold (they didn't think I should have to wear gloves to use silverware). Also they are expanding the pills I took T-Th, and I will take one on Friday and only 1/2 of Saturday....so they are hoping that will prevent my crashing rather than quitting me cold turkey on Thursday. So we'll see.....hopefully this whole thing will be better this time around. I'm feeling so much stronger than I was two weeks ago to begin with....and going in three pounds heavier than two weeks ago as well. I was up to 135 this morning, which is 10 pounds up from my all time low.

I'm home, and also saw the ostomy nurse before coming home....have a new kind of bag that has a built in filter, which is supposed to help with the gas in the bag....they also sent me home with two more of the same kind. I told her about the magic button, and she gave me two of those to try too. So I will try and use them, after I use these new bags they gave me. I am healing the skin around the ostomy, and she said the stoma looks really healthy, so that is good too.

So far the cold reaction is 90% better than last time. So far only noticed it mildly in my right had when we walked out to the car, as I didn't have my glove on....but as soon as I put it on it went away. My throat did feel weird when drinking cool water, so I will continue to drink warm or hot beverages. I felt a slight tinge in my jaw when I ate a piece of banana bread....but the went away right away as well. So I have high hopes of it all being so much better this time.....we can only hope. Between that and the new bag, maybe I'm turning the corner with that too! Keep those thoughts and prayers coming my way! My prayers is:
"Dear God, bless all my friends and special family members in whatever it is that you know they may need this day. And may their lives be full of peace, prosperity and power on their journey through life and their efforts to have a closer relationship with you.” Love and prayers, m

If At First You Don't Succeed!

Try, try again!!! That's what I'm doing. The magic button didn't work and I blew the seal of the bag that I had installed the magic button in...so had to through that away and put on a new bag last night. I will be seeing the ostomy nurse again tomorrow. I set up an appointment last Monday when I was there, and it is a good thing I did. My nagging cough has been adding to the problem, but it seems to be better this morning....we can only hope.
Well, I need to jump in the shower, and be off to church. This afternoon I have the lenten study group, and for sure I'll be watching that Hockey game!!! Go USA!!! m

Good Morning, Good Day!

Up and at em early this morning, as I get to go see Colie, Allie and Katie play their last hockey games of the season. I've already had a visitor as well. Jan Ranum has a friend with an ostomy, and after reading about my blow-out the other day she found a neat little device that allows you to let air out of the pouch, without having to empty it. So I now have changed my pouch and have attached this new little button that I can open and release the gas. I'll still have to go to a private spot to do this, but it will help in the long run. Excited to test it out.
I'm still coughing....will it ever end? But I got on the scale this morning and I am up 8 pounds from my all time low last week, so I'm doing good in that area....I'll even start chemo on Monday ahead of what I was 2 weeks ago, so it should help in how I handle the chemo as well.
Didn't do a lot yesterday, but did run to MacDonalds for dinner....that fish and fry special they have going looked so good in the ads....I couldn't resist. Tasted good too!
Got a call from Carol (Bill's wife) yesterday afternoon, and he will be having surgery next Thursday on his neck. He has a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord a long with some other rough spots, that they will go in through the front and clean up. Then they will be putting in a plate and screws, and turning him over and doing the same thing from the back side. So another to add to our list of prayers. I'll try to keep you informed as to how he is doing along the way.
Thanks Jan, for bringing over the gas button this morning early. Love, thoughts and prayers, m

A New Day is Dawning!

And the sun is shining bright on me....so is the scale! I stepped onto the scale this morning, and I am back up to 132 lbs. and that is one pound above what I started chemo at....and seven pounds above the all time low on last Sunday, so I am feeling pretty happy about that. Maybe I can pack on a few more before I start chemo next Monday.
I continue to battle this pouch attached to my side. During the movie yesterday it filled with air/gas, and I didn't want to walk out of the movie and miss anything, so as soon as the movie ended I bolted to the bathroom, and started coughing (which is still hanging on) and blew an opening in the side seal. The air was out by the time I hit the bathroom, but so were some of the other contents of the bag. Luckily it was in the side, and I was able to make it home to change it. I thought I had learned my lesson last weekend with allowing it to get too full of air, and coughing, and having it blow the seal....so it was partly my own fault...partly the nagging cough, and the limits of having a pouch. Unfortunately I'm a slow learner. But it won't keep me down.
No big plans for today, I really did enjoy the lunch and movie yesterday inspite of my other problem....but don't have anything on my calendar for today....I guess I could go grocery shopping. I'm sure I'll figure out something to do.
I got a couple of cards in the mail yesterday, but one contained a note and a couple of photo's from Ann's dad and his wife Annette. They were at Gooseberry last weekend, and took a couple of pictures of Gene's bench for me. They mentioned how peaceful and calming it was. Thanks Buck and Annette, I know Gene is at peace like he always was when we camped on the North Shore.
The day before I got a package from my brother and sister-in-law. Carol had included a letter, that told me that it was my mom's daily misle and even though the cover is falling off, all the ribbon markers and prayer cards had been left in place where mom had them. One on Christmas Day...mom's favorite holiday, one on September 21, which happens to be Jimbo and Ann's anniversary (I'm sure a coincidence) but it is also the feast of St. Matthew, which is also a strange coincidence since Matthew is Annie's youngest and only boy. So needless to say I will cherish this and have shed several tears since receiving it. Thank you Carol.
I continue to be blessed by all of you....Love and prayers. m

Another Day Another Pound

Actually two more pounds! Hurrah! I've started back up the scale, and feel a lot better in the process. Had a good day yesterday, met with financial adviser went shopping and bought a new outfit for my trip to Florida the end of March, and then spent the evening watching the Olympics with my son Bill. I must say my kids, take great care of me....calls, visits, and food on a daily basis. Love them, and all the rest of you who contribute with gifts, calls, visits or just thoughts and prayers.
Knowing you are all rooting for me keeps me laughing and bolsters my positive attitude.
Today I get to enjoy lunch with my friend Lois Bjerke....then we're off to see "Valentines Day" at Showplace. I told her she could pick the restuarant and I would pick the movie, cause I wanted to see something light....I knew she'd prefer to see a few of the more serious movies out right now. She was happy to a bilge me.
So it's time to shower and get ready. Till tomorrow, love and prayers, m

This Little Piggy!

That's how I feel, I am eating continually. But it is making me stronger...I just hope I'll be able to turn it off when I get back to normal weight. Had a good friend stop by yesterday afternoon, and she brought some delicious raisen bread, that I've already eaten 6 slices off. I also went out for dinner again last night with another friend from the college, and enjoyed eating and visiting....so food is my life right now. No eating engagements today, but I'm sure the rest of the bread and left overs in the fridge will taste just fine.
The sun is shining this morning and a saw a little bird land on a branch outside my window, so I know mom is watching over me, making sure I eat...mom was all about food! Love and prayers, m

What a Difference a Day Makes!

I continually improved as the day went on yesterday, and woke up feeling so much better this morning. My new pouch that the ostomy nurse put on yesterday, seems to be holding tight, and I got on the scale and am up 3 pounds from my all time low! So things are definately looking up for me. Today, I am again having dinner out and getting caught up on thank you notes and stuff like that.
Had dinner with a great friend last nite, at a great place, but we were the only two in the place for the two hours we were there. I sure hope it makes it. CRU on Central in front of Kohls!!! Free advertising, they need it.
Talked to Aunt Loretta and cousin Karen last evening, and Loretta sounded really good, and is planning on going back to her own apartment today. Elaine will be going with her and staying with her for a while. Karen will be in town for a few more days, so Loretta is in her glory with so many of her family close at hand.
I hear good news on Frank as well, so your many prayers are really working. I even hear that Janet is going to live....she has disenfected her whole house in the process. Hopefully she will be healthy next week when we go through this chemo thing for the second time....hopefully I will be healthier too, to start as well.
Okay, enough of this rambling....thank you, thank you, each day is a gift we must not take for granted! Love and prayers, m

Good Morning

That is literally a good morning. Up early and feeling so much stronger than yesterday...kinda back to Thursday as far as strength goes. Not coughing as much, and think I'll get a shower and actually go out today. I have two dates, lunch with the ARCC retiree's and wanna bees, and dinner with Cherie Peck Rollings another former ARCC friend. May also see the ostomy nurse, if I can move up the appointment from tomorrow to today.
I haven't gotten on the scale yet this a.m., but yesterday I had finally gained back two pounds and I ate like a pig yesterday, so I hope it helped. Also decided I may need to use some of that imodium to get my self back to normal?? again. I think I will just take one this a.m. just because!! I maybe should have been doing that since Friday....probably would have helped. Hind site is always 20 20. But things to remember for the next round for sure.
Loretta is the proud owner of a new stent, and is back at Mike and Pandora's loving life. I believe eating Thanksgiving dinner of Turkey!!! Frank also seems to have turned the corner and they are moving him to a rehab hospital. Wonders never cease. I thank God for all the blessings he has given this family.
Also a big thank you to Annie for the tater tot hot dish and hot biscuits for dinner last nite and Jimbo and Ann for the Juicy Lucy they brought me for my pre dinner snack. Both tasted wonderful, and I hope added to my poundage! Love you guys so much. m

I see the Light!

I'm not exactly up and at em today, but I do feel like I'm getting better. Still woosey this morning, so didn't go to church, but have been eating and napping all morning, and think I am starting to turn the corner...having a sinus thing and cough going on all week, I'm sure didn't help matters either, but at least I came out in better shape than Janet.
Annie and the kids helped clean and do laundry for me yesterday, and great friend Jan Ranum brought food. Then Bill and Katie spend the evening watching the Olympics with me. Today, Annie is bringing dinner to eat later this evening, and I think Jimbo and Ann plan on checking in on me, so I have lots of help.
Glad to hear Frank is having some good days, and he will be out of ICU and into a place to recuperate and gain back some strength soon. Love and prayers to you all, Love,m

The Sun went down and so did I!

They had warned me that after the steroids they gave me earlier in the week that I would crash after they wore off, and it didn't happen Wed. or Thursday, so I didn't think it would....well last nite, and I crashed and burned....I could not peel myself off the couch, was so weak I could barely get to the bedroom and bed and still feel weak this a.m....although am a little better, I'm not falling asleep!!! and I am sitting upright! Have had some breakfast and looking for more food, as I am down again another couple of pounds.....how thin can I get??? I've never had to worry about this in my life....getting fat was always the problem!! Getting myself to gain weight is a completely foreign idea!!! I've always dreamed of being thin....but I guess not this way! Be careful what you wish for huh? Love and prayers, m

Sun Continues to Shine on Me

All your warm thoughts and prayers, are brought to light each day the sun shines!!! Sorry I'm late updating this a.m.....have been busy, organizing some tax stuff....showering....and cleaning....so I still have plenty of energy.
I still am worried about the weight thing, down a few more pounds....and I can't figure out why as I am continually eating.
Not much planned for the weekend, just hanging, might venture out to shop, back some muffins, and eat. Sunday I get to go to the Lenten Study group meeting at Pat and Dennis Tkach's home. Looking forward to that.
Haven't heard anything in the last 24 hours about Loretta, but do know they were thinking of doing a angiogram and maybe put in a stent. Keep her in your prayers please.
Frank seems to be holding his own....hurray!! Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, Judy and I both know how much they mean to us! m

That Sunshine is back Again Today!!

Bracing myself to go see the surgeon in a few minutes to have the bridges he inserted in my stoma removed. I am taking a pain pill and having Janet drive me....but then Janet will be on her way back home to recooperate for all the nursing, cleaning, and loving care she has given me....all the time she was suffering herself from a sinus thing. I think I felt better than she did last nite. She was taking better care of me than of herself. Love you Janet!!! Thanks so much. I'll report later how I did in the comment section of this blog! Love and prayers, m

The Sun is Back Again today!

Today I get unplugged, and I will be done with round one, and only have 3 more to go....these will happen in 2 week increments, except for the last one, as I will be enjoying Florida for a week, and so my last session won't be till I return in April. The cold sensibility seems to already be lessening this morning. I plan on doing a shower this a.m., by hanging my pump on a hanger on the other side of the shower curtain. A good trick if I can manage it. While I'm at the HHH Cancer Center getting unplugged, I get to drop in on Imelda Neis, (her husband Joe worked with Dad and Gene at Midwest and the Star) who is going thru chemo for breast cancer. So that's my day...I'll be watching more Olympics....and maybe get some ashes this evening. Fat Tuesday didn't seem to add any weight to my body....it must be just a name. But I continue to stuff myself in hopes of gaining a pound or two. Love, thoughts and prayers, m
P.S. Loretta is back in the hospital...so again keep her in your thoughts, and Frank is still struggling to recover in ICU....has a trache and a feeding tube now....but seems to be holding his own.

The Sun is Shining on Me Today

The sun burned through yesterday, and it's shining again this morning. You guys are really saying those prayers for me. All the comments on Facebook, all the emails, all the surprise cards and gifts....I truly am blessed by all who read this.
Chemo is going well....the only side affect that is really noticeable is the sensitivity to cold. I can't touch anything metal with out getting this instant cold feeling in my fingers, so I have taken to wearing gloves when eating (cold silverware) and opening doors (cold knobs). I have to drink warm water or it's cold going down my throat....so it's all hot food and hot beverages for me....it's supposed to go away tomorrow when they unhook me.....we can only hope!! But at least I can live with it....wearing my hot pink gloves. Today I'm challenging Janet to Blokus, watching Jenny Potter (wife of the Coon Rapids High School girls Hockey coach) win another Hockey game this afternoon. I am feeling so strong!!! On Facebook, I commented last nite that I am Strong....I am Invincible...I am Woman!!! Thanks again for your support. I love you all. m

Don't see the sun yet, but I'm ready

I am packing my computer and will post to this blog, later this morning, from the Humphrey Cancer Center this afternoon.
Okay, hear I am....already an hour or so into it. I have a warm blanket over me, and that is making me warm like the sun is shining on me....so I'm soaking that into my solar panels....also having this warm computer on my laps helps too! Annie has left to get me some lunch (Subway) so that fact that I'm hungary is good.
Janet is at my house cleaning and getting ready for my arrival back home. I'll go home with a fanny pack and pump of chemo drugs pumping in for another 46 hours, and then I will return here on Wednesday at noon to get unhooked. So far so good.

The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow!

Yes, the sun is shining today as well, but tomorrow I start my chemo, and I need that solar power, so I pleading for the sun to come back tomorrow too!
I went to church this morning, and I am dressed in real dress clothes, and I don't think you can tell I have a colostomy either. I was really worried about this, and it doesn't seem to be a big problem, so another hurdle crossed.
This afternoon, off to my Lenten Study Group meeting, the first of this Lent, and I am looking forward to seeing all my friends. Gene and I joined this group about eight years ago or so....and I truly feel like they are family.
My sympathy goes out to Tom Weimer (husband of Aunt Loretta's granddaughter Kim) and his family on the loss of his father last night.
Love and prayers, and Happy Valentine's Day to you all! m

Hoar Frost Beauty

It is so gorgeous outside, but I really prefer that sunshine. Yesterday, I actually left the house and drove my car for the first time in 2 weeks, and it felt so good. I also enjoyed my qigong (healing meditation) at the college. This has given me new strength....and I plan on attacking those spots with highly charged solar panels in my lungs come Monday's chemo.
I was pleased to step on the scale this a.m. and I am finally on the way back up, gaining two pounds. I have a long way to go, but atleast it is going in the right direction. Baked myself more cookies yesterday, so I'll keep fueling my body. Doing a good job of eating myself out of house and home.
Today I will hibernate, and watch the Olympics, probably will overload on them for the next two weeks. Got some more laundry to do, as I only made one trip to the basement yesterday, I have to retrieve some dry clothes and add another load to the dryer. Maybe I can do two trips and have it completed.
I will be going to church in the a.m., and then my Lenten Study group resumes at the Buhr's home. I am really looking forward to this as they have been a great support in my prayers life as well as my actual life in the past years. Great friends,I enjoy being and growing with.
Talked to Aunt Loretta last nite, and she sounded really good. I warned her to keep herself at the top of the list when she is doing all that praying for all of us.
Nothing else new to report. Love and prayers to all who want or need. m

Baby steps!

Good Morning, I have officially made it through my first day and nite by myself with no complications. I showered and changed that appendage attached to my belly, went to the basement and folded a load of towels Janet has put in before she left, and I even started another load of clothes, that I need to work on today. Today, I will leave the house on my own for the first time in almost 2 weeks. Sounds silly, but these are giant leaps for me. Being able to live independently is something I used to take for granted. I continue to stuff myself with as many calories as I can, but haven't seemed to gain a pound. But that is my goal for the week.
Going to have a qigong session this afternoon, thanks to Sheila Judd from the college. So my hope is that this will progress the healing from the surgery and clear some of that anesthesia out of my system, so that I will be able to accept the chemo's work and get rid of this cancer. Keep those prayers coming, love m

Sunny, Sunny Day!

Having the sunshine, always makes me happy. I truly am solar powered! Janet left this a.m. after trying to meet my every need for three days straight. She anticipated when my water glass needed filling, when I needed a snack, and actually felt sorry for me and let me beat her at Blockus....a family loved game. My sister Kathleen, insisted on beating me every time we played cribbage, so it was a great feeling to be a winner for a change.
I haven't heard any update on mom! Hope she is doing well. I think Elaine has flown in to help her again. Nice to know she will be in good hands. I'm sure Mike, Pandora and Richard can always use the help. My prayers are with them all.
Not any big plans for today, finished making valentines and baking yesterday, a combined effort of Janet and myself. So today I plan on getting in the shower again, and then changing my bag for the first time at home. Don't think it will be a problem, just hope it seals as well as the one the ostomy nurse did on Monday. Wish me luck. Love, thoughts and prayers, m

Just wanted you to see my new t-shirts!

I will be proudly be wearing my solor powered t-shirt on Monday when I start chemo. Thanks Karen and Reudi

The Sun is Shining Today

Literally!!! I'm feeling so much stronger as each day passes...I guess that is why they wanted me to wait to start chemo....it's amazing how much better I feel each day. Janet and I spent the day yesterday making valentines and I also got to work on the many thank you's. Got word late yesterday afternoon, that mom (Aunt Loretta) is in the hospital with chest pains and trouble breathing....so hope you all will keep her in your prayers. Also, cousin Frank is doing so much better....your prayers are being felt all around.
In my haste to add some pounds I ate some candy last nite....and also drank several glasses of peach ice tea (so much better than plain water in my mind)....but forgot what a sugar and caffeine high would do to me when I went to bed....wide awake till after 2 a.m.....I will be much smarter in what I eat before bedtime this evening. Keep those prayers coming, m

Hot Showers and Snow Showers

The snow continues to fall, but I could care less....not going out in it! But the Hot Shower, that was heavenly....I haven't had one in over a week, and it was like a full body massage. Then I put on brand new PJ's thanks to Ranum's....and I feel like a new woman. I unforetuneately got on the scale this a.m. to my horror, I'm twelve pounds down from my normal weight! So Janet is working on feeding me, and forcing me to drink water. We've going to bake muffins and cookies today, and then make valentines, and start on my thank you's...the first of which goes to the neighbor who has blown out my driveway everytime it snows, and redoing daily. Sending him cookies and muffins too! I continue to mend, and gain some strength, so your prayers are working. Love, m

Home Again, Home Again Jiggety Jig!

Well, I wasn't exactly doing the jig....but I would have loved too. I am home and Janet is here taking good care of me.....she even made homemade chicken noodle soup for me for lunch. Thank you to all the the have sent cards...and expecially a big thank you to #1 Cousins Karen....who sent me 2 T-shirts and this note: Dear Mary I know that you have probably started your first chemo session (No I won't start that till next Monday) I'm sure you're not having a good time....so, to make things more colorful, as well as fashionable, I'm sending you two samples of the very latest in chemo wear. For those days when you are feeling gray and totally lacking in energy, just put on the yellow Solar Powered t-shirt. With the over whelming succes of the adopt-a-spot campaign, you now have over 60 rays of sun filled with prayers and good wishes heading your way. I always picture your lungs as these rays and converting them into healing energy...The spotless t-shirt is to keep you focused on your goal...(Perhaps you can also share it with Kathleen as she cleans your house...) We send you lots of love from Switzerland....Your #1 cousin, Karen Unfortuneately Kathleen already went home...but Janet will try and take good care of me. Karen, I love the t-shirts, can't wait to wear them both. Love, m

Real Food

This morning, the doctor took me off the IV and said I could go home tomorrow. I need to see the ostomy nurse before I go home. My breakfast tray came and I even got to eat cream of wheat cereal...and some orange juice. Hopefully lunch will be even better.
Kathleen my sunshine all week, has left.....sad.....and I already miss her. Tomorrow when I go home, Janet will take over caring for me....for a couple of days. Wish Kathleen, Janet and I could have had the chemo party we had planned.....but I guess I'll have to plan something else to do when I get the chemo next week.
Going to watch the football game from my hospital bed....by myself....would rather be at Jimbo's. Love you all, m

Liquids are on their way....Yippee

Good morning, all three doctors have been in to see me, and they all reported that I was doing well....I get to eat today, and they are removing the morphine pump....so I can take meds by mouth as I need them. The plan now is to send me home tomorrow or Monday, and then to wait and start chemo the following Monday. That way my body will have a chance to heal some before they start the chemo. So things are looking up.
Dazy is all upset....she wanted spot number 69, and it's now taken....oh well, She will survive. Love you all, m

The Snow is coming down but I'm UP!

My lucky day, they pulled out the catheter and my nasal tube, so I'm only attached to one line right now....and that is Fluids. Kathleen and my son Tom are here visitng....what could be better. Still can't eat today, but they will start me on liquids tomorrow....with the possibility of starting Chemo on Sunday at the earliest. Keep chasing those spots away....I love you all!!! m
P.S. I even beat Jimbo at cribbage last nite.....or he felt sorry for me and let me win.....unlike Kathleen. m
Sorry, I missed a bunch of spot takers, Bill, Kim, Katie, Tommy and Carrie and Jason....so they will get 64-69. I will get you all added to the list.
Also, I'd love say a few thanks for the beautiful flowers I've recieved. Brad, Lynn, Karen and Ellie Woodward. Elaine, Jeff and Aunt Loretta sent beautiful orchids, and Bonnie and Bob Lammers sent a very cute smilly face mug filled with yellow roses. Jan and Lloyd Ranum sent a beautiful pair of PJs and some cozy socks....And a special thank you to Presley for the beautiful card she made me. Love you all, m

Plumging 101

Things seem to working well today.....I got a gold star this morning for generous amounts of fluids in both my bags....bowel sounds are good, my blood pressure has dropped immensely....somewhere around the 130 over 70....I sat up for over an hour and played cribbage with Kathleen....of course she beat me again!!!! You'd think she'd let a sick person win!! I have not used much pain meds either. So I think all is going well. I have had some problems with allergies today....they left 3 connectors for heart monitor on me after surgery, and before lunch I was already iutching, so they had to give me benedryl. My breathing into the spirometor is going good....I've hit 2000 a couple of times. I'm sure the thoughts and prayers are all working well. Love you, m

Wednesday evening update

This is Kathleen updating today's events for Mary. She had surgery tonight at about 6 p.m. to put a temporary ostomy in her colon to relieve her blockage. This ostomy was done by a very small incision to allow Mary to heal quickly so that she can move forward in healing and then possibly starting chemo next week. She managed the surgery well and we all talked to her later tonight after she returned to her room. She will likely stay in the hospital over the weekend and the doctor wants her to be eating food this weekend and making sure that she can tolerate it before sending her home. Hopefully she will begin chemo shortly after returning home. Then, at a later date.......probably after her chemo, Mary will have another surgery to affix a permanent ostomy.
We're all thankful that she can move forward now and receive chemo in the near future.
Love and thanks to you all for your prayers and support of Mary.
K

It's Complicated!

Well this morning started out normal, they sent me down for my daily xray and Kathleen arrived as I was getting ready to clean up....as soon as I went into the bathroom, the doctor arrived and had news....they had discussed me yet again at the tumor conference this a.m., and ruled out putting in a stent to relieve the blockage, as the placement of it would not be possible in my case. It would end up being too irritating to the anus. So the only other option is an ostomy, and they will do it this afternoon. It is his hope....that they can do it minimally invasive, and that they will start chemo as soon as I can start eating again...not waiting the normal six weeks to heal before starting. But I guess that will be up to Dr. Londer the oncologist. Dr. Schlaefer thinks they can. Please continue the prayers, and as for now I'll be in 421 W at North Memorial. Love ya, m

Twanky Intestines

Hi it's really me today, Kathleen brought my computer up to the hospital and I was able to get into their wifi after a couple of password changes.
The surgeon Dr. Schlaefer was in to see me this a.m. and he ordered a CTscan which I have already had. He had seen the xray I had yesterday, but he said it was hard to determine the cause with an xray, but that the CTscan would be much better. So we'll see what that brings, he thinks that if it is scar tissue, it could be taken care of by the method they are using right now....resting the intestines....which means nothing by mouth for a few days. They have me attached to an IV pole, for fluids, and they have given me antinausea meds and something to settle my stomach. So for right now it's just a rest and wait treatment. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, I don't know what I'd do without all of you. Love, m

No Chemo Today

This is Kathleen, subbing for Mary, writing to report on today's planned trip to the cancer treatment center for Mary's first chemo round. We arrived early as Mary has had a very uncomfortable two days of intestinal distention and vomiting. The doctor saw Mary and ordered an xray of her intestinal area and found that she has some partial blockages there. Consequently, he cancelled today's chemo (as chemo could potentially cause more intestinal distress) and put her in the hospital for a few days to rehydrate her and give her intestines some time to calm down, and she will not have any food or water by mouth until it is resolved. She is doing much better tonight as she has had some IV fluids today and some anti-nausea medication this evening. The partial blockage(s) are not likely cancer, but rather probably due to a flare-up Mary experienced from meds she had a couple of weeks ago at Mayo to prep her for a colonoscopy..... these meds gave Mary a bad reaction of constant vomiting, and may have left her intestines inflammed. It is also possible that the cause of the partial blockage is due to scar tissue............tomorrow Mary will meet with her doctors and maybe we'll have more news to report as to what is actually going on...........in any case, she's much better tonight and she will be waiting a few more days, or possibly a week, before they begin her first chemo round.
Keep those prayers coming..............they are much appreciated.
Kathleen

Sun is Shining and Warming Up

I'm sure the warmup has something to do with Kathleen arriving today. I'm so excited. I'm feeling great! Got a lovely card yesterday from Elaine (along with about 3 emails we exchanged) But I loved what the front said, so I wanted to share it with you. "May your day be brightened by the loving thoughts this brings. And may the angels brush away your cares with gentle wings." My day was brightened.
Did anyone see the full moon last nite? It was so gorgeous, just hope it doesn't bring strange things with it. I wonder what trouble Kathleen and I can get into? Hope you all have a good day, glad to hear Frank is holding his own. Love, m

Franks new CaringBridge website

Dear Mary,

A new journal entry for Frank Vermeulen's CaringBridge website was posted at 9:02:00 PM on Jan 29, 2010.

Read the latest update and show your support at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/frankv

Cold but Sunny

Good Morning, not a lot to report, but I did hear from Judy late last night, and she too wants to thank all of you for the prayers, as Frank seems to be getting better. I also got some wonderful phone calls yesterday, from some who don't have email, and just checking up on me, and some who do, and just wanted to visit. It was my son Bill's birthday yesterday, and I had a nice long talk with him, and then my neice Jessie called as her husband Paulo has the same birthday. I also got several old fashion greating cards, sent by snail mail, and lovely notes from my neice Blair and Mary Lou Mathoweitz. I also got an email from Imelda Neis, one of the printers wives and great friend who is also undergoing chemo at this time at the same clinic I am, however her treatments are on Thursdays and mine on Mondays, but we hope to bump into each other there some time in the near future. I also have her on my prayer list.
Late yesterday afternoon, I went to the movie "It's Complicated" with my friends Bonnie Sass and Lois Bjerke, and laughed our butts off. Great medicine. However, I had to say goodbye to Bonnie for the next two months as she left this morning for Sedona (the luck). She will be soaking up all the sun and sending it in my direction. Maybe, I'll get to spend a week with her. But for sure I am going to Florida the end of March, I sent in my payment yesterday. Not only will I have sunshine there, but lots of family and friends. I can't wait.
Today, I need to go shopping for Bill's birthday present and some food to make him, and the rest of the family, dinner on Sunday. So that said, I better get dressed and get going. Love and prayers, m

The Sun is Shining Today

The sun really is shining today. I'm feeling great too! It's amazing how much better I feel when the sun is shining. Let's hope the sun is shining on Frank. The report this morning, is they have him kind of in an induced coma, or totally out, and will remain that way for a couple of days....so at least he isn't in pain. They were unable to get a central line in last nite, so they will consider a port today. He is on a vent, his lung hasn't inflated yet, and he does have a fractured rib and a new fracture of a vertebrae in his lower back. So it's real serious, and we need to say some serious prayers for him and his family. (For those of you who don't know Frank....he is the husband of my cousin Judy, and he was battling lung problems back when I had my big cancer scare in 1996...they eventually did a lung transplant on one lung, and then a few years ago, they also did a kidney transplant from his daughter Cathy. He is continually on anti rejection medications and has of late had to be on oxygen continually....yet he still keeps fighting back....they had planned on spending the winter in California with their daughter and family till this happened, and Cathy jumped in the car and helped drive them back home in that horrid weather last weekend, and then turned around and flew home to her 3 kids.) Love, thoughts and prayers, m

Came through with Flying Colors

I'm home and feeling good. Everything went well, I don't even remember anything including leaving the prep room and entering the operating room, I was so out. Came home ate some toast and took a nap. Have talked to Annie, Kathleen, Tom, Karen and Janet, and figured I better update this blog so you all know how well I am.....on the other hand cousin Frank has been moved to ICU and is on a ventilator. Tomorrow they will go in and try to get the lung to inflat and remove any fluids in his lungs. He's the one who needs the prayers today. Janet had planed on spending the evening and nite with me....but she now is sick....and if better tomorrow she will be spending the day with Judy at the hospital. So.....don't worry about me tonite, just say a prayer for Frank and Judy. Love, m

P.S. Wyn (another former student worker) stopped in and visited with me before my surgery today...funny how all of a sudden so many of my former studentworkers have come back into my life.

Today's the Day!

Getting ready to go to the hospital to get my port inserted, so I'll be ready for chemo to start next Monday. My friend Bonnie Sass is going to spend the day with me at the hospital, and then our favorite cousin Janet is coming to spend the evening with me....as they don't want me to be alone for 12 hours.....I'll try and update you later this afternoon and let you know how I'm doing. m

Look for the Silver Lining and the Sun will Shine Through

Getting ready for the port to be inserted tomorrow....Bonnie Sass has agreed to take me and sit there till I'm done....I hope she has a good book...for Bonnie that shouldn't be a problem. The sun is now shining here in Coon Rapids. I think that is a good sign. I guess the power of all your prayers must be working.
Kathleen suggested that while she is here next week, she and Janet could clean my house and make it SPOTless....but I told her that would be a reach. Not that I think they couldn't do a great job....but it would take more than one cleaning.
I so enjoy reading your responses to my blog, and emails etc. Keep up the good work, Love ya, m

Finally Got the Show on the Road!

Jimbo came with me this a.m. to see Dr. Londer, and we now have officially got an appointment to start chemo next Monday morning at 9:00 a.m. I then came home and talked to Dr. Schlaefer (who Londer talked to while I was at his office) and he is now in the process of setting up a time to have my port inserted. He hopes to do it tomorrow or Wednesday, so I'll be all set for next Monday. (That now is set for Wednesday at 1:15 p.m. at North Memorial....may need someone to drive me to that.) The surgery will be done as an outpatient.....they make me drowsy but not really out. The port is totally under the skin unlike the catheter that I had problems with 14 years ago, so I think that will work much better, and they told me it has a lot less chance of infection. So that relieved my concerns about that....I also mentioned to both doctors the concern over the adhesive tapes etc. and Dr. Schlaefer promised not to put steri strips on the incision. I also mentioned to Londer about all my intestinal problems I've had since that "moviprep" episode, and he felt my tummy, and said he didn't feel any problems, so it's just still sore from all the vomiting and cramping I had. Also....my blood pressure was a little high (140/80) but nothing like it was last week at Mayo. So here we go!!!
This morning Joe and Sandi requested a spot, and they now officially have #54, and I just got a call that Frank and Judy are back home, evidently Frank tripped over his oxygen cord and fell into a kitchen Island and has 3 compress fractures in his vertabrae....I'm sure Judy will update us all on that soon. m

Good Sunday Morning!

COCK A DOODLE DOO!
I am a Jew
Jesus is my name
And I am known for my fame
Healer of the sick, the lame and the blind
I will make the cancer go and your lungs will be just fine.
Still looking for the sun, but found this in my morning email from Janet:

COCK A DOODLE DOO!
Make that spot be a Jew
Let it think it has strength like me
For I am the King of Kings
All who believe in me will be set free

That spot has no power
That spot has no fame
I condemn that spot to 12 Hail Mary’s
And to never return again

Cock A Doodle Doo
I sing this song for you

So who need sunshine when I have all of you sending great poems, prayers and love.

Today I'm going to church, then out for breakfast with friends, then possibly a hockey game of granddaughter Allies, then off to Jimbo and Ann's to watch the Vikings beat the Saints. Also continue to celebrate Nicks birthday, Today is the real birthday, even thou he has been celebrating all weekend.
Tomorrow is the day I see Dr. Londer and get this show on the road. Love you all, m

You Make Me Happy When Days are Gray!

The following poem was sent by Janet....she's crowing hard to get rid of her spot.

COCK A DOODLE DOOOOO!!!!
This poem is for you
Stomp out my spot and make it go away
For today is a great day
No spot of mine will stay!

COCK A DOODLE DOOOOO!!!!
This is my crow
I send my spot with a hearty throw
Go SPOT Go, See SPOT Fly
Now out of here and don’t return
Don’t even try!

Then I got this email from Denise Groll:
Hi Mary: I have tried to post a comment on your blog and haven't been successful, so I'll send the request in this email and cc my family, so we're all in it together.

On behalf of the Ed Schieber kids and significant others, I'm requesting 6 spots that we can adopt and our efforts will be to "shout them out"! Something like, "get out of there you stupid spot"! You have been such an inspiration and I appreciate your sharing of your thoughts/experiences as you graciously fight the battle.

Sending love and a big hug. Denise

Thank you so much, I am assuming Diane, Deb, Dar, Denise, Ed and Kelly right? I have had so much fun adopting out these spots, I guess you guys get #'s 45-50 wow! I don't know if my lungs have 50, but who's counting. They'll all be gone in a flash!! Love you all, m


I had a wonderful time yesterday with qigong, lunch and birthday party. Being around so many loving, caring family and friends really energizes me. But the rain and gloom outside makes me sing: Rain, Rain go away, come again another day!...and I continue to need your sunshine on days like today!!! m

P.S. found this in yesterdays comments:Hi Mary, Pandora and I would like to know if you have any spots left. If you do we would like two, We would not want the one to be lonely. By the way I here spots make good fish bait. I am taking the boat out so I will drop them to the bottom of the ocean. I will let you know what happened. Love Mike and Pandora So I'm giving them 51 and 52. Thanks again, Love m

Extravagant Grace Extravagent Love

Good Morning, I spent last evening at church for a Chocolate Retreat for Women. The evening was filled with dinner, chocolate in many forms, journaling, reflection, song and prayer. We ended with the song, Extravagant Grace, and the words "Taste and see that the Lord is good. He is gracious and compassionate. Slow to anger and rich in love. Extravagant grace flows down, Extravagant love all around. I can taste it. I can touch it. Its' like chocolate to my soul". We talked about turning our problems over to God and trusting he would take care of them.....You all know I did that in early December, and I have been lavished with love and support by my family and friends. I have an army of you praying for my spots. (by the way Jackie Patton took #43 this morning) I am at peace and know that God will carry me through this next period of my life. So it was so appropriate to celebrate God's grace last night with a group of women (some of whom are proud spot adopters). The last reflection question was "How can we reflect the grace God has lavished upon us so others see it when they look at us?".....I hope my smile, my laughter, and my love for all of you will continue to do this.
Today, I am going to have a Qigong session (energy healing) and then lunch with my former boss and great friend Rosie, along with a former boss of sorts and dear friend Brenda Dickenson. They both were with me through my first bouts of cancer....and I am so happy to have them with me now. Love, Thoughts and Prayers, m

Finally saw the Wizard! and he's mixing a Brew for me.

Well, I'm back home and have a much better picture of what is going to happen now. This doctor was very good at explaining the plan etc. They will use FOLFOX which is short for the group of drugs they will be using. He said it would be administered with a port and a pump for 48 hours once every 2 weeks for 4 sessions, and then they would have me come back to Mayo for a scan to see how it is responding to it. If spots are gone, they could stop till they start growing again, or if not, they would go with another 4 sessions administered the same as the first. He said this drug regimen does not make you lose your hair, but some people will have some thinning of hair. (Who knows in my care I never do anything normal) He did say that the most common side effect is Diarrhea (which would be nothing new for me) and controlled with Imodium (also not new to me) He said they have had a lot of success with this recipe, and felt that I was starting out strong and that was in my favor. He reiterated that it will not be cured even if the spots disappear, (they would just be dormant) but that it was very treatable. He took Dr. Londers name and fax number and said he would contact him before the week was up, as I told him that I had an appointment with Londer on Monday. So I am assuming things will start pretty quickly on Monday, and should be finished with the first 4 sessions by April. He also said these things could all be worked around vacations etc. So exact dates don't exist. But I plan on making the trip to Disney with the gang on Easter break for District 11 the end of March. So for now, we'll see what Monday brings.....keep those prayers going on those spots....with the army of spot adopters, I should have this made in the shade!!

Didn't see the Wizard....just a Surgeon!

We didn't really learn anything new today, kinda anticlimactic! We thought Dr. Nelson was going to give me the plan on what they were going to do with me, and she only agreed with all the doctors I've seen in the last week, that she would not do surgery, as long as it is now in my lung as well. So now when I drive down in the morning, I will see the chemo doctor, and supposedly that doctor will give me the recipe of what chemo to use, but then I have to go back to the Humphrey Cancer Center at North Memorial, and see my doctor there....I've already made an appointment for next Monday....and then hopefully soon they will start treating the cancer. We (my kids) and I are kind of thinking it was all a waste of time and money. When we could have started chemo a month ago.
I did adopt out another spot today, Rita Culshaw has taken number 36. Poor Janet has to come over and get me tomorrow morning at 5:30 so we can be at Mayo by 8 for the appointment with the chemo doctor. Hopefully the last trip to Rochester in a while. I'm not disappointed about that!

Off to See the Wizard!

Today is the big day! I get to see the Surgeon, Dr. Heidi Nelson, and get a summary of all the tests and doctors I've seen. I am waiting for Annie and Jimbo to come and pick me up for the trip to Rochester. Have a 10 a.m. appointment to see a Radiologist at and then wait around till 2:30 when we have the big meeting to hear the plan for my future. I have no doubt that all of you will do your part and taking care of those adopted spots, so now we'll see what the doctors will do. I will update later this evening. It's a foggy morning, kinda appropriate. Till then, hope for Sunshine! Love, m

Response for spots it overwhelming!

I missed Karen's comment about wanting a spot....so she get's #31. You all have been so wonderful...jumping at the chance to help me....I can feel the love and energy entering my lungs and turning those spots into beautiful butterflies and flying away into the sunset! That's my visualization during my meditation prayers....I know it is working! Thank you all, and anyone who didn't get a spot....I still have plenty numbers to give away! Love, m
P.S. Thanks cousin Karen for thinking this amazing idea. m