I must be feeling better.   I actually cleaned my pantry today.   Got rid of icky stuff and have organized so that I know what I have in there.    I tell you, I won't go hungry.

Did some sewing today too.

Now if my creative muse comes back, I will feel whole again.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Went to Mass and Bible Study this morning.    We were discussing John's story of the Good Shepherd.    Jesus says that the sheep know the shepherd.     It reminded me of a friend telling us that this is indeed true.   Peggy Feider's children raised sheep, lambs, for 4H  at some time.   She said that when they judge the sheep they put them all in the same enclosure but sure enough when the kids call, their sheep come to them.    They know their voices.    What a beautiful analogy.

After Bible Study, I did my grocery shopping.   I had a big winner in the Powerball,   $8.00 so I didn't have to take any money out of my wallet for this week:)

Did some sewing today.   And I enjoyed it.    I have a little mending job to do that I think I will finish tonight.    It is good to be caring about some things anyway.    I even cleaned a shelf in the pantry.

Am home all day tomorrow.   It is supposed to be pleasant. Today was chilly but sunny and not too windy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Today was my cleaning lady day so I had Kerry here and my home is sparkling again.    Nicky still barks at her.   I don't think he can figure out her function.

Guess what.   Our Adria, my great granddaughter, is the valedictorian of her class this year.    Isn't that wonderful.   She works so hard and it shows.

My niece, Erin and her Jon, had their baby,. They named her, Mary Rosalie.    So happy for them.   Nice to be a great aunt of a newborn    We haven't had a baby around for a while.

I went to Writer's Club tonight.  Haven't been in over 7 months.   Maybe this will inspire me to get off my you know what and actually write something again.   I feel so dry these past months.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I hope you missed me the last couple of days.    I was in Texas.   Went down for my annual Trip to the Dallas Irish Fest with my sister Nora and he husband Leif,  my brother George and his wife Betsy and my nephew Stenn and his wife Bing.

This was our third year of gathering for the Fest so we now have a tradition going.    We all George and Betsy and I arrived on Friday afternoon and we all went out for dinner.   Then the next  day we took the train to the Irish Fest.   Lots of music, vendors and food.   Then back to Nora and Leif's home for A sumptuous meal of Stenn's Shepherd's pie, Bing's  Chinese dumplings, and smoked salmon.   We also had our very first whisky tasting.    George won.

This morning I hopped in the car abut 11AM Ned made it home by about 2PM.  Tired but happy.and A nick quiet week ahead.

Dia Dhuit

Mary  

I took a ride with Bart to Norman to have his shoulder checked.      The examener says that he is doing better than normal and did give him a shot in the shoulder to help the discomfort a bit.   So all is well.    Warmer weather will help if it ever comes.

Went to the Sacrament of Penance tonight at Holy Family.  

Now it is bed time.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Rain this morning, but it had pretty much stopped by the time I headed off to Holy Family for 9AM Mass.   I like going to that Mass before Bible Study and spending a bit of time in the Chapel when they put the monstrance out for Perpetual Adoration for the day. 

Bible Study was very lively.   We are studying the Gospel of John.    He, the beloved apostle, is an interesting read and he makes Jesus very easy to understand.  This week we discussed Jesus healing a man who had been paralized for 38 years.   However, he did it on the Sabbath , so the Jews got all upset about that.    People haven't changed much have they?

Tomorrow I will go to OKCity with Bart for his appointment about his shoulder. 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Started off pretty cold, in the 30s, this morning but the temps got up to the mid 60's by the time I had to go out at 2PM this afternoon.

I had my check up with Dr. Aye, my chemo oncologist today.   All is well.   I will see her again in May and will have a PTscan 6 months after my treatments ended.   So for now I will just enjoy being cancer free and healing and feeling better every week.  By the way, I weighed 110 pounds today,   I have gained some of the weight I lost back.    If I get to 115 I will be happy.

No doctor appointments until mid April when I see my family doctor, Dr. Aiku.   I don't expect any changes or problems that I am not aware of there.   (Not with all the testing that has been done on me since I saw her last:)

Guess that was my day.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Went to the 8:30AM Mass this morning.   The weather has cleared and though it was rather chilly, it was fine as the sun was shining.

It got up to 62 degrees today.   Nicky and I went for a nice walk.    He is going to think that he needs to walk to poop if we get back into the groove.   But that is OK, except for rainy and sleety days.    As we all know,  Good doggies poop when they are on walks with their owners who pick it up and throw it in the thrash:)   And Nicky IS a good dog.

A busy week and next weekend, I will be going to Dallas for the Dallas Irish Fest.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Went to see Dr. Smith, my radiation oncologist, this afternoon.   She says I am doing well.   I will see her again in May after I have a scan.   I probably won't need a full petscan this time.   That is encouraging.   A lesser scan will show what we need and if there are signs, they can do a petscan at that time.    Anyway, one oncologist down.   I see Dr. Aye on Monday to find out if there are any other preventative therapies to ward off the return of the cancer   I will also get labs and my port flushed.

It rained most of the day today.   At least it has to have really helped the drought situation we have been in.

I did a bit of sewing this morning.   I am working on two projects that are difficult so it is a challenge.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I did not leave the house at all today.   It was sleeting almost all day.   The yard is covered in an ice shell.   So are the roads.   Glad I am able to stay home safe and sound in my little warm house.

Hope everybody else is safe and warm also.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A Cold front came through this morning and the temperature dropped 30 degrees, from 62 to 33, in less than two hours.    The rain turned to freezing and we are supposed to continue with freezing rain through tomorrow.

Judy cancelled bible study just in case as the worst is supposed to be just around our study times.  A bunch of older ladies don't need to be out on the streets.

I did my grocery shopping today and a couple of other errands so I can stay home.   I am retired, I could stay home anyway:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well.   The immunotherapy is off.   The insurance company will not cover it.  I am waiting for another appointment with Dr. Aye to find out what her next suggestion for followup will be.    In the meantime, the good news to remember is that I AM CANCER FREE right now.   We just want to keep it from coming back.

A quiet day.   We did have a bit of welcome rain overnight.   Today it is sunny and in the 60s.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

The weather report said that it was over 80 in Lawton today.   My thermometer showed 75 which was warm enough.    Quite lovely in fact, with the sun shining and all.   I am starting to take Nicky for short walks when I go to pick up the mail.    He really likes that and, as he can do his business then, thinks I have come to my senses.     He doesn't think that good doggies poop in their yards, you know.   Condo dogs have that mentality.

This afternoon the Lawton Celtic Club met at the Shamrock at 2PM.    There were 8 of us there again, so we are doing well.    One of the ladies is going to join CWI.    I am excited.   This meeting, we talked about exciting facts about Scotland.    Next month, we will discuss St. Patrick, of course.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Not too warm, not too cold today.   Tomorrow it is supposed to get up in to the 70s.    I am trying to get motivation to walk with Nicky.     After all.   That is what I got him for.   To walk me.    These monhts of cancer sure took the wind out of our sails.   Oh well.   Spring and summer are coming and we will get back to our walks.

The mailman told me he missed me these past months.   He wondered if I was sick.   How special is that.:)

Did my grocery shopping today.   Figured that I don't know what the immunotherapy will do and want to be prepared here at home.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a cool but sunny day in southern Oklahoma.    No real wind so it was pleasant out there.

I was home all day but tonight went to the Quilt Guild meeting.  It was fun to get out on an evening with dynamic people.    Good meeting but we did not have a program, the presenter ended up sick in the hospital.   Danger of flu season.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a great day.    Started off really cold, but it is 42 degrees and sunny and calm now, so I am not going to complain.    Talked to Jeff and he had to get out and clear his driveway.    No white stuff here.

Went to the 8:30AM mass and then to coffee after Mass.   They served King Cake, a traditional pastry served just before lent.   I don't know if they had the Jesus statuette baked in the cake or not.   But I was able to visit with Robbi and Pam, two church friends.

Had a nice long talk with Kathy and Jeff Deeley this evening.   I had been checking my Ancestry and Genealogy information for details on our cousin Clarence (Bun) Deeley who Jeff and I both remember from our childhood.    He was the son of one of our Grandpa Michael J. Deeley's younger brothers.   John also came to Sheboygan Falls and settled and married here.   Bun was their youngest son.   He never married.   He was a hunting companion of our Dad.    I remember stopping there for Church stuff when I was a kid as they would use us kids for delivery persons.   Bun was always nice but didn't quit know what to do with us so he would turn us over to his sister, Katherine, who lived with him.    A lovely memory.   She always gave us cookies and something to drink.  A special memory for a young child who was one of 9 children.   To be special was unique.  Though we were always pampered at home.

I missed rabbit hunting in Wisconsin AGAIN!.    People still miss me and that makes me feel good.   It was always fun to go to the sausage tasting at that local bar also.    Good days.   Maybe I'll go back for that one year. 

So a good Sunday.  I start my immunotherapy on Thursday.   Will keep you informed.    I have a class on Wednesday.   Ash Wednesday but the schedule is working out.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I went to Mass this morning and then followed that up with the Bible Study.     I did not realize how much I missed that weekly event.    A dynamic group of women and a bible study.    What more could I ask.

The rest of the day was uneventful, except,   I almost forgot to get my lottery ticket:)    Remembered just in time.   I do that in Dick's memory and would hate to miss a week especially with the "lucky numbers:: that Dick picked for us.

Tomorrow I get to stay home all day.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Yea.   The pet scan was clear.    That means that they got all the cancer.    BUT I still have a big chance, as I have Stage III cancer that it will come back.    We are not going to dwell on that now and I am looking ways to avoid that, like Chemoradiotherapy which can reduce the recurrence by a LOT.    I will opt for that as I have not completed my bucket list yet and want to have time to do that.

Tell everybody that the cancer is gone for now and that is what we want to celebrate.    Tomorrow will come coon enough.   Right now I am CANCER FREE and grateful.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A busy but still laid back day.

I saw Dr. Toy, my chiropractor, this morning and he put me "in my place again".    I only see him once a month now.

Then I did a few errands, including renewing my auto license.   The rest of the day was very quiet.   Bart stopped by this afternoon to check out the cats and for a visit.   I got a couple of phone calls so felt very loved today.

Tomorrow will find out about the petscan.    PLease pray that all is well:)


Dia Dhuit

Mary

Boy,   I go on vacation and completely get out of the habit of blogging.   Sorry.    Not that much happens around here.   

Last night, I went out for dinner to the Outback with Bart and Barb and one of my great granddaughters, Abby.    It was fun.    I always like it when I can eat a meal with somebody especially family and/or friends.   I am a pretty good cook, I think, but eating alone is no fun.    Meals should be nourishment for the soul as well as the body.

Anyway, it was fun. 

Today I made a batch of Chili Mac, so guess what I'll be eating for a while.   I will freeze some of it.   I was hungry for it.    This is a good sign as my appetite has been really bad since the surgery.  

Can hardly wait til Tuesday to find out the results of the Petscan.   I might hear on Monday but as I have the appointment with Doctor Aye on Tuesday, I expect that this is when I will get my results.  I want the results as well as the implications anyway.

Another week coming,  going to be a bit chilly.   Nothing like my northern friends I know but chilly none the less.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am home as of Tuesday night.    Just been too tired to post.

What a trip.    A LOOOOOONG drive but well worth it.  The Arizona Oasis, where Bret has his mobile home, is really  lovely place.    On the River, near off roading.    I even got to do a bit of hill climbing with Bret at the Sand Hole.     What a blast and it brought back lots of memories.

Being with my boys together was such a joy.   AND my niece, Vikki and nephew, Todd were also there and Todd brought his girlfriend, Samantha and his daughter Skyiler too.    A regular Johnston reunion.    We hope to do this more often now.    It was too many years in between gatherings.

Spending time with Janet, Bret's girl, was also super.   She is such a lovely person and they really love each other.    And boy can that woman cook.

I have to figure out how to do pictures again and then will send some pictures on this site.   YOu saw us on Facebook anyway.    Dear Janet sent some.

Dia Dhiut

Mary

Another lovely Oklahoma day with sunshine and little wind.

I spent the day getting ready for the trip.    You won't be hearing from me until next Tuesday or Wednesday unless I get a chance to get on the computer for email or something.

Have a good week.   I intend to.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a day.   Except for the wind.    But the temperatures were in the 50's.    It is pretty hard to get upset about wind effect as to 50 degrees after single digit temps for so long.

The day after tomorrow, Bart and I leave for Arizona for a Johnston family reunion.   So looking forward to time with my oldest son.     And to spend time with Vikki and Todd is really special.

Bret booked a special place for us on the River with a super river view.   Expect to spend hours looking over that river and catching up with each other's lives.    I am so blessed to have so many nieces and nephews that love me and actually want to spend time with me!!!!!!!


Dia Dhuit

Mary.


 .

Went to the 8:30AM mass this morning.    The KC's had a pancake breakfast after Mass so I went to that and visited with my friends Mark and Pam.    It is nice to say that I have friends.   Not as many as in Wisconsin, but it is building.

After that I came home and just kind of did Sunday things.   Spent a nice time on the phone yesterday with my friend Peg.    Good to catch up.    We have known each other since the Wells Fargo days and I retired 18 years ago now and Peg retired even sooner.    How wonderful to have such long standing friends.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Very busy day.

First-   Rode to OKCity with Bart for his appointment with the doctor about his shoulder.   He IS doing well according to the Nurse Practitioner who saw him and she renewed his therapy order.

This afternoon was the meeting of the Lawton Celtic Club.    We met again at the Shamrock over on Cache at 2PM.    Bart joined me as I had been promising him a meal there since they opened.    We both had Rueben's and they were very good.

Had a nice meeting,  First we ate and visited, then I told the group about Bridget, the saint and the goddess.    It is always fun to share information.    There were 7 of us there today.    Next month we are all going to try to find something special about Scotland and/or the Scottish people.    Fun.


Dia Dhuit

Mary

Cold, cold, Cold.   Single digits this morning.  Got over above freezing this afternoon.    By the weekend it is supposed to be in the 50s.    YEA.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another cold and windy day on Oklahoma.

I had to go to the grocery store but aside from that was able to stay in my warm little home all day.

Quiet tomorrow, then Bible Study resumes on Wednesday.    I haven't been in months and really missed it.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well,  It has been very quiet and very cold around here the past couple of days.

Today it got up in to the 50s in the afternoon and the sun has been shining so it is making everything much more tolerable.   I pulled out a couple of projects trying to get myself interested in DOING something.   I am sick and tired of feeling sick and tired.  

Bart and I are leaving on the 24th to spend a week with Bret and his cousins Vikki and Todd.    I think that may put some life back in this old body.   Just a reunion has me pretty excited.

Yesterday morning, I was part of a telephone conference for the Celtic Women International.   Telephone conferences are kind of goofy but I got to hear and talk to lots of my Celtic Friends while it was going on.    Not too personally , of course, but at least a bit of a catch up.

Next Thursday is the Lawton Celtic Club meeting.   Sure glad we have our "pub", the Shamrock, now and can meet there.   Bart is coming with me.   I want him to try the food.


I am practicing.   Here is a picture of my Christmas Cactus which I have had for years and it finally bloomed.

Let me know if the arrow is in it and if it is how to get it out.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another beautiful day in Oklahoma.    I just looked at the temp and it is 59 degrees.     It was actually a bit warmer earlier in the afternoon and a cold front is coming through tonight so I had better enjoy this.

Spent the day sorting my trip stuff.   Hope I make wise choices.   The one for the Wild Game Dinner, I should have extended one more day.    But I was thinking that I am returning for the Celtic Women conference in less than two weeks and have a day or so extra on that.     Then In June, I will come again for the big wedding.    Yes, Jessie, if you read this, It is a BIG wedding, at least in your old Aunt Mary's eyes and I am so glad that I am able to come.

I've been snacking on fresh raspberries this afternoon.    I sometimes forget how much I love them but they were on sale on Monday - Nice red plump sweet ones!!!!!


Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, I made several reservations for the trips to Wisconsin that I will be making as this year rolls around.

The first is the Wild Game Dinner.   I am only staying for three days on that one, as I am coming back to Wisconsin the 20th for the Celtic Women Conference and am coming a day early and staying three days afterwards.

So hard to decide these things,  but one must.   Especially if you want decent air fares.    I am renting a car for both of the events.

Will Let all affected know the dates and plans in the next week or so.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Kerry has her grandchildren tomorrow so she came to clean this morning.

Then I went grocery shopping and spend a fortune on Nicky's flea and heartworm medicine.   This is when Dick and I would look at the critters and ask them if they were really worth that much.    Of course, they always are:)

Tonight was the Quilt Guild Meeting.  I had not attended for months.   We had a very interesting stimulating educational meeting.      It is a really good guild.

So.   Tomorrow should be quiet.   I am very tired right now.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was an eventful day, as it turned out.

I went to the 8:30AM mass.    We had a special blessing of water to take home with us to use to Bless our homes along with special prayers and chalk to mark our front door as the door of a home that is dedicated to Christ.   We wrote 20C+M+B+18.  CMB  stands for Christ bless this house and 2018 for the year.   The plus signs are Crosses.

Tonight Marlies and I were invited to Bart and Barb's home for dinner   We had scallops and shrimp with side dishes and berry cobbler for dessert.    All was excellent.  And the company was fun also.  

Now I am ready for bed.   Just got to get Nicky out to do his business.  

Marlies gave me a bag of fresh pecans in the shell.    Guess what I'll be doing in the next week or so?

Dia Dhuit

Mary

We started out cold this morning, but by the time I had to leave the house, it was all the way up into the 50s.     Yee Haaw.    I feel better today too.    The cold really bothers my chest area.

I was busy today with bookwork stuff.   Am starting to gather for tax returns.    I shredded the 2012 documents as I don't need them anymore.   I am trying to get stuff OUT OF THIS HOUSE>    Since I have been sick I have been just piling things up.   As I stow what little I put our for Christmas, I will get rid is things and reorganize in the garage.  

This afternoon, I went to the funeral of my neighbor and friend, Luther (Lee) Smith.   I went with Mr.  Wilson (Ron) who lives accross the street.    The three of us had just gone to lunch last Thursday so this was a shock to Ron and me.

Lee was a dear.   He even came to visit me in the hospital when I had the surgery and I barely knew him then.    I found out from his tributes, that this was very HIM.    He had a kind and gentle soul and helped anyone or everyone that he felt needed help.     I will miss him.     He used to call me every Tuesday even if we had talked during the week.    He laughed about.   I will be a bit more lonely on Tuesdays now:(

We are to have warm weather for the next few days.    Will be very good for my body.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was bitter cold this morning, but seems to be warming up a bit.    We are supposed to be in the 50s by Friday.

Had my scope today.   He found a couple of polyps, a couple of other small things, but nothing that is serious.   He took some biopsies to be sure but feels that I just need to be healing from the surgery and radiation.   I am not the most patient person in this world.   Don't know if you all noticed that:)

So it is just an aggravated nervous stomach and I will continue treating it as such.

Got to stay home the rest of the day.    Actually, had to.    Can't drive until tomorrow late morning.   Restricted everything for 24 hours after the scope.   It was one of those magic treatments.    You go to sleep in one room and wake up in another remembering nothing.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is Cold still.     BUT we are supposed to be getting into the upper 40s and low 50s by the weekend.    I am sure looking forward to that.     We were at 11 degrees this morning an now all the way up to 23.    Whoop!

I know, I know.    It is colder in Wisconsin, but if it is below freezing, It is COLD and I moved south to be warmer - poor me.

Except for going to the grocery store this morning, I have been able to stay home in my nice warm house for the past two days.    Thank the Lord.    And Nicky is not thrilled about walks which is a good thing because I am not taking him on any,   So there.

Tomorrow I go to the Clinic to have my endoscopy (I think that is what it is called).    I hope they find something that can be fixed and/or healed.   I had a miserable night and morning because of my stomach today.   I have to be there at 6:45AM to check in.    Wow.   Am showering tonight and laying everything out, so I just have to get dressed and take care of Nicky.   Bart is taking me.   I could drive myself, BUT one cannot drive oneself home from this procedure.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from Bart and Barb's where I had dinner with them, Marlies and Bart's school friend, Scott, who came to visit for the holiday.      Scott is such a joy to be around.   He and Bart have been friends for 40 years or so and still see each other whenever and always keep in touch.   These are the BEST  friends.

I want to wish all of you the happiest New Year.    I am going to try to stay awake or arrange to wake up to see the new year in but don't have much hope.    

Anyway.    A happy and Blessed New Year to each and every one of you.    May 2018 be full of joy and prosperity and health.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

We had snow - again.   Actually twice today.   I woke up this morning to a lovely snowfall.   It even covered the grass a bit but was gone by noon.    Then we got a bit more this afternoon - late, but it did not stay on the ground.

I was home all day and did some sewing.  I am feeling like doing creative things again.   Am glad of that.   For months I have felt rather empty.

I called Suzi tonight and we had a really nice long talk.

Tomorrow I will go to see Dr.Toy, my chiropractor.   I am a bit sore in the neck and have a sore hip.   Perhaps he can help.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was COLD today.   In the low 30s to upper 20s.   I know, I know, you friends and family in Wisconsin consider that spring, but I am COLD.

Went to lunch today with two of my neighbors at the Cracker Barrel.   We realized we are all widowed and it is nice to have a meal and visit with others sometime.    We all enjoyed it and decided we would do it again when it is a bit warmer.

Aside from that, it was a totally quiet day.   The kind that Nicky likes a lot.   He really prefers if I don't leave the house at all.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from a lovely Christmas Eve Secret Santa Exchange at the Adam and Alexia Benoit's home.    We had a super spread of good food (I brought candy).

It was fun and nice to have children around opening presents and playing.   Not an unhappy one in the group.

I got a Pioneer Woman tea kettle, lazy Susan and measuring spoons.   Really pretty.   I am going to relegate the old black tea kettle to the cupboard and have a pretty one instead.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

The smattering of snow was all gone by 2PM this afternoon.    The ground is still too warm to keep it.   I can't say I am unhappy about that.    Took Nicky for a walk about 3PM and it was really quite pleasant as the sun was out and the wind was down.

It was a quiet day.    Sometimes I get sick of quiet days.   I will gradually as I get stronger DO things.   Dick used to laugh because I wanted to be "doing things".    He was perfectly content just being.   (As long as I was there:)

He loved family and close friends around but really loved when it was just him and me.   What a compliment to ME>

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is early morning on December 23.     WE HAVE SNOW ON THE GROUND. 

Nicky was not thrilled.

Dia Dhuit

Merry Christmas

Mary

Two quiet days.    I did some baking both of them.    I decided that if "Why do we have Christmas without Buckeyes" then why would we have Christmas without Lizzies, my Mother's fruitcake cookie.   Nobody else, except Deeley's make them so I made a batch today.   Maybe I will share, maybe I will not:)   Ask if you want them.

I just have to make a coconut cream pie on Sunday and then I am done.

Nothing else exciting.   Packages are arriving and I am trying to keep up with Christmas cards.

Tomorrow and Saturday, I won't be going anywhere

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from a spectacular Christmas event, featuring my great granddaughter, Abby Benoit in a featured, speaking role,    as Kid 1.    Barbara, Marlies and myself drove to Geronimo to the school to see the program with the rest of the family.   

I loved it.   

Children's singing, is mostly yelling, but their enthusiasm is contagious and their director picked wonderful music for them.

Anyway.   Time for bed now.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A nice quiet day.    I spent most of it at home, BUT was invited for a taco casserole dinner at Bart and Barb's.     Always good to eat a meal with someone.

Bobbie and Bill's packages arrived today.   I am set on soap AND her special candies.   Yum Yum.

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is chilly today.   I asked my friend and neighbor, Jarrod, to help me replace the lights on the garage that have been out for a while.   I felt well enough and am confessing that I did try myself, but I forgot how.

It is Sunday and I am being VERY lazy mostly.    I went to the 8:30 Mass and then to a pancake breakfast that the KC's were having in the gym.    God knew that I have been hungry for pancakes.   They even had blueberry pancakes and I ate two - plus bacon and eggs.

I am all caught up on Christmas cards.

The coming week is very quiet.   I have only one doctor appointment and no other scheduled events.  Now, as I am feeling better, I need to start DOING things again.    I am sick of feeling like a sludge and want to be useful.   Can't believe that Christmas is one week away.   Can't believe even more that it has been 5 years since my sweetheart went to heaven.    I miss him more every year.    I imagine that this is how Mom felt.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another day of moderate dry temperatures.  There is a fire on the base, but they have that under control and actually do occasional burns to keep their skills up and to control the dry conditions.

I had an appointment with Dr. Aiku, my GP today.    She is as pleased as she CAN be with the way I have responded to treatment and will not need to see me until April after my PtSCan.  

I also got a haircut today.   Not as short as I used to but as Kandi says, Blow and Go Cut.   I also don't have the hair blocking my vision.   A bit of a bang and I feel a hundred pounds lighter in my head:)

I filled my gas tank and got a couple of groceries, so I should be able to stay home all weekend, except for church.   Ran in to Debbie from Bible Study at the store.    I will be able to go back to bible study when we resume on January 17th.    I have really missed that group and the people in it.   They are one of my strongest prayer groups.   I know those prayer groups are what have helped me survive and heal.

I am truly blessed.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

The temps were in the 50s today and if the wind hadn't been blowing, it would have been quite comfortable.

Bart went tot he post office with me today to mail all the candy and presents out.   I got some Christmas stamps too as I will have to get to the Christmas cards next.

This afternoon the Lawton Celtic group met at the Shamrock.   I was able to EAT.   I ordered a corned beef sandwich on a pretzel bun and was able to eat quite a bit.    I was proud of me anyway and didn't gag even once.   I even ate some French fries.   Yea for me.   We always have such a good time and the Donaghe's brought a guest Pastor James Mc Dowell who hails from Belfast.   I had baked a loaf of Barm Brack for the celebration and was assured by Pastor James that it was like the Barm Brack his mom made for him when he was little.    I am sharing the recipe by request with the Lawton club.

So lots of excitement and things to do today.    Tomorrow, I see my general practitioner at 9:30AM and am getting a haircut at 11:30AM.    Boy will I be happy to get this hair out of my face.

Then except for mass on Sunday,, I will be home and able to regroup.   I feel that the house and Christmas have gotten away from me.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I'm keeping myself busy these days and still have very little Christmas around the house.   Today, I put up the little Christmas tree that I have been using since Dick had so much trouble getting around the house in his wheelchair.    I put the local presents on the floor under it and have half of the packages that need to be mailed finished and ready to go.    Will do the last three tomorrow and Bart said he would go to the post office with me on Thursday to mail them.    Then it is downhill all the way to Christmas.

Nora called today.   We had a great visit.  

I am getting a haircut on Friday after my appointment with Dr. Aiku.   I look like the Shaggy Dog these days and want the hair out of my face.  Guess I must be feeling better.   Up til this week, I dreaded driving to get the cut.

Tomorrow is my final, I think, visit with Dr. Smith, my radiation oncologist.   I have a few questions.   Hope I have written them all down.

Guess that catches up.   

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I mixed and rolled buckeyes today.   Tomorrow I will dip them and then will be able to get my boxes ready to send.

I was able to be home much of the day.   It started out cold but the wind was down and temps were in the 50s which is quite comfortable for this time of year.

My Easter/Thanksgiving/Christmas cactus is blooming.    For the FIRST time in my life.    I guess the sunroom is a comfortable place for it.   When I get more blooming, I will try to send a picture.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I wrapped presents today.    The ornaments.     This weekend, I will make the Buckeyes, then I can spend the week getting packages ready to mail.    I want to get them out by the 15th or the 18th at the VERY latest.    That way I can send them just plain express mail.

Anyway, it was VERY cold, 19 degrees when I woke up.   I was glad that I did not have to go anywhere today.    Bart stopped by at lunch time so I got to eat with somebody.   I had my soup and he had picked up a burger.    Just SO good to have company at a meal.  

I fixed a pork chop for supper and ate half of it.   The first cutting meat that I have had in quite a while.   It tasted good too.

Dia DHuit

Mary

It is a red letter day.

I had my blood test then saw Dr. Aye, the chemo oncologist.    She said that my white blood cell count is up.    She also said that I do NOT have to do the 6th chemo treatment which was supposed to be next Tuesday.   Yeaaaaaa!    That means that I should be pretty much over the chemical and radiation induced ickyness by Christmas.    Yeaaaa!

I will see Dr. Aye in early February AND have the Petscan to be sure that the cancer is all gone.

I am sure that it will be.   After all, 2018 is going to be a great year.    Has to make up for 2017:)

Tomorrow I will go with Bart to the Center for a CT Scan for him.

Glad my day went so well.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well,  it has been two weeks since my last radiation treatment and almost two weeks since my last chemo.    I still feel like I have been run through a wringer but am sure that as time passes, my body will start healing itself.

Tomorrow I see Dr. Aye and hopefully will hear that I don't need any more chemo.    Please pray that this is so.  I have lost the weight I regained and would like to get an appetite back again, so I can get some strength and start feeling better.

Nice warm day today.   Temps will drop 30 degrees tomorrow.   Talk about a roller coaster of a weather ride.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Felt a bit better overall today.     It has been almost two weeks since my last treatments and Dr. Smith said it would take that long    By the time I see her in two more weeks, I intend to feel close to normal.   Got to be good for Christmas.

I made the fudge today.   That was all I did today.    Tomorrow I will make the 7 layer cookies.   Then I will spend the week making those blasted Peanut Butter Buckeyes:)   Want to get my packages off by Dec 15th if I can. 

My decorations are going to be a bit sparse this year.   I am not entertaining big anyway.  I did put the Advent Calendar wall hanging up and have the candy canes hung on it.   That is at least festive and makes me feel proud.

A lovely day in the low 70's again.   With little wind it was so pleasant.   I have been taking Nicky for a short walk when I get the mail.   Good for him.    Good for me.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Still sore, but did feel better in the early part of the day.

Totally uneventful except that Suzi called and we had a nice visit and Bart stopped by for a bit in the late afternoon.

Tomorrow will be better, I know:)

Dia Dhuit

Mry

A day spent totally at home.   Didn't even see anybody except a few kids coming home from school who oohed and aahed over Nicky.    He loves young people so that was good.

I did have a break in the quiet when Eileen called and we had a good phone visit.   We never run out of conversation.   Go figure.

I do feel a bit better today.   Was able to eat a bit.   My chest is really sore this evening.    Each day should bring a bit of improvement now that I am a week beyond the chemo AND radiation.   At least this is a quiet week and I don't have any obligations or appointments.

Starting to think about Christmas.   I can't believe that Sunday is the first Sunday in Advent.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I now know why I am so exhausted.    It seems my blood count is low so I am on antibiotics for a week.  That would explain a lot.   I also have a new medicine that may help my stomach pain.     Keep your fingers crossed.

I hate to be such a complainer.   I am not used to being sick and if God is trying to teach me patience, it isn't working:)

It was a lovely day in Oklahoma.   Up in the 70's.    I took Nicky out when I got the mail and got to visit with my neighbors Jarrod and Bill for a bit.      I have the best neighbors.    I would not hesitate to ask any of them for help.   A new neighbor will be moving in next to Jarrod on the weekend.   The house has been vacant for some time.

So    North Korea at it again!!!

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well.   I am alone again.    Leslie and Bill left this morning for home and called when they got there so I know they are safe and sound.

I have not been feeling very well.    So will go to bed early tonight and hope that tomorrow will be better.    I know that it will just take time and healing.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Nora and Paul left at seven this morning.   It was so good to be able to spend some time with Nora.    It was over 5 years since we saw each other last.

The day was great.    Bill, Leslie and I just hung out and visited.    Bill did go to "his" coin shop and he brought me a present, an American Eagle coin.    I love it.

So a quiet day.  I LOVE having people to talk to.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This will be short because, I am very tired.

Sorry I haven't posted for a couple of days, but on Wednesday, I was cooking all day.    On Thanksgiving, I baked and welcomed my houseguests.

I did tell you that Leslie and Bill and my granddaughter, Nora and her boyfriend, Paul are here for the holiday.    Paul and Nora have to leave tomorrow.    We have had a wonderful visit and catch up time.

All of us went to Adam and Alexia's home for Thanksgiving dinner yesterday.   A feast fit for kings with lots of love and lots of happy thankful people.    Lexie always has everybody say what they are thankful for before we eat on Thanksgiving.  Such a beautiful tradition.

Today, we spent with the "Kunert" family.   Bill and Leslie can stay until Monday.   Yea.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Only one more Chemo.   That will be in three weeks.    Dr. Aye said that there is some chance that I won't need it, but I don't know what that means.   I will see her next week when I have my next blood test.   It is a four hour commitment and the procedure left me so tired today.   At least I didn't have radiation too.

So the rest of the day was very quiet.   I rested the best I could.   

A couple of really special phone calls.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This is a red letter day.     I got to ring the bell at the Cancer Center because I have completed all my radiation treatments.     Boy am I glad.   Now my body can start healing the burned parts and in three to four weeks, I will probably be able to eat without it hurting when I swallow.   

Had my consultation with the nurse with instructions for the next four weeks.   I will see Dr. Smith in four weeks.   Hopefully for a clean bill of health.  Don't need to do anything else or have any tests in between but need to call if something odd happens.

Tomorrow I see Dr. Aye and have my fifth Chemo.   Then there should be one more of them in three weeks.   I will find out tomorrow more details on that.

I had to take Nicky to the vet today.   He has developed a rash in his groin area again.   I took him on my way to radiation and they called me to pick him up (after shots, bath and etc) at one o Clock.   I am not sure if he has forgiven me yet.    He sure smells good and had medication for his allergies. 

Talked to Eileen today.   She is doing Thanksgiving.  She said she always does and likes it.   Probably like Mom did for many years.

It was a chilly day but the wind has died down a lot so with the sunshine, it was not unpleasant.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I got to stay home all day today.    Boy, was that a relief, even if it does get a bit long sometimes.   As I say, Nicky is a good companion, but a poor conversationalist:)

I made the cranberry relish today.    You have to make it ahead and it lasts forever.    It also freezes well, if that becomes necessary.   I believe I will test it tomorrow when it has matured.   I do love that relish.

Yesterday, I felt squishy all day.   Today I felt pretty good.     The break in treatments really helps and I only have two next week, Monday and Tuesday.   Then that welcome three week break.  I figure my appetite will come back in a week or so and I can gain some of that weight back.

Did a bit of sewing today too.    Tomorrow, I intend to go to Mass, then do some more sewing.    At least I WANT to do things.  A good sign.

So until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A busy day.

Radiation this morning.   Only 2 more to go.    YEA!!!!!!!!!  The last will be on Monday.   Then Tuesday I will have my 5th Chemo.    BUT when that is done, I should have three weeks without anything but blood tests each week.   That will give me a chance to heal.

The last Chemo is December 12, well before Christmas.   YEA!!!!!!!!again.

This afternoon, the Lawton Celtic club met.   There were 9 of us there this time.   We are slowly growing.   This time we discussed our DNA and Ancestors.    We are now meeting at the new Shamrock Pub in Lawton.   They are glad to have us.     Good food.    I had Shepherd's Pie.   I can't eat much but it was super excellent.    I will nosh on it for the next day or two.   Next month we are going to discuss Celtic Christmas traditions and I am bringing a Barm Brack to share.   Barm Brack is an Irish fruitbread that is wonderful for the holidays.


Tomorrow will be quieter.   I am glad.   Just radiation and shopping.   I am sore and ready to be home.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Had another lab test and another radiation treatment this morning.   Only four more radiation, the last on Monday.    Yea.    I am so tired.

Today was a very special day.   Jim and Michelle came down from OK City for a visit.   Hadn't seen them since Christmas so it was great to all catch up.    Bart came over.   Unfortunately, Barbara had to work.    They looked well but are facing some health problems, much like the rest of us.   We all vowed not to let this much time pass without seeing each other.   We live much too close to let that happen.

And we had such a good time.

We are planning on spending Christmas together again.    Family time.  Can everyone else come too:)

I also voted.  There was only one issue and I almost passed but the voting place is close and I had not to use my right to vote so I went on over at about 5PM.    Don't think the turnout was too big.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What  a day.   Had a blood test and radiation this morning (only 5 more radiation to go) and a CT SCan this afternoon.    Tomorrow, hopefully, they can tell me why my tummy is hurting so much.

Tomorrow morning I am still scheduled for a lab test, but believe they will cancel that.   I have radiation at 9:30AM and hope they are on time as Jim and Michelle are coming late morning and Kerry is coming to clean at 10:30AM.

It was a nice day today.   No sunshine but after the morning chill the temperature was quite pleasant.   Nicky and I took a nice gentle walk.

Until tomorrow.

Dia DHuit

Mary

Well, tomorrow I will get  my CTScan FINALLY.     I have started taking my anti iodine pills already as prescribed.

I have lab tests in the morning and possibly a radiation treatment.    Who knows at this point.

Have had stomach pains most of the day but forced myself to eat.   Not much but at least I ate.

Hope I have more exciting news tomorrow.

I was at Bart and Barb's for supper tonight.   The Missionaries came to give Bart a blessing, so I asked for one too.   One can't get enough blessings in my book.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Was supposed to have my CTScan today, but they seemed to have missed the fact that I have an allergy to iodine and need to prepare for that, so after waiting an hour, I was sent home with a prescription and a new date of Monday at 3PM.     I have learned a valuable lesson.   Don't assume that your doctors know everything.   I will do my own followup from now on.

Ate a little better today.

Dia   dhuit

Mary

What a day.     My stomach hurt most of the day.   The doctors are scheduling a CTSCAN but need an "OK" from the insurance company.     So in the meantime,   I just hurt.    It is really hard to eat and I am supposed to be gaining weight.


Anyway, I found out I only have six more radiation treatments and they have put them off until Monday because my blood readings are  bit low.    So I have to EAT.

Well, I have four days to try to noodle myself.    Nicky is very clingy today.

My friend, Judy, brought me a prayer blanket.   I am so grateful.   It is a Packer Green and Gold.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Back on radiation again.  I am checking them off as I get them.   Only 11 more to go.    Tomorrow I will see Dr. Aye and have the final Chemo scheduled.  I think it will be on Dec. 12.   I will be done before Christmas.   Yea.    Then I can heal and get this metallic taste out of my mouth. 

Ick.

It is so annoying and I am supposed to EAT:)

I am still not quite adjusted to daylight savings time.   Nicky sure is not.   He is trying to tell me it is time to eat at 3PM.     Logic does not work, but he still has to wait.

Bart came by to visit this afternoon.  I am sure glad.   sometimes the days get mighty long.    We had a good visit.   

If I feel OK, I will go to the Writer's Club tomorrow evening.    Sure hope I do.   Worked on the wall hanging and finished my Christmas card.    So I AM doing something.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Felt awful most of the day.   Guess is is the leftovers from the Chemo that I had on Tuesday.   The effects do seem to hit a few days after the infusion.    Sure glad that I didn't have to go anywhere today.    I mainly slept but did some sewing and baking too.   I won't let the "bastard" get ME down.

Tomorrow is another quiet day.   I will go to mass in the morning and then see how things go.

I have changed my clocks.    Sure glad that some do themselves.    I am trying to stay up a bit later, but am SO tired.    I wake up after a couple of hours and have trouble getting back to sleep.   Trying to stay up that extra hour will be a challenge.  Nicky is not the most stimulating conversationalist.

Dia Dhuit

Mary


 

I am so glad that the weekend is upon us.   I am so SICK of going to the Cancer Center every day for the radiation treatment.     It leaves me exhausted and squishy feeling.

Two days to feel semi human again.   Only 12 more treatments.   Two weeks and two days.   The last day I will have another double up with chemo again.     Shuckens.   But this too is getting to an end.

I worked on a quilting project today.   Almost have the picture complete, then just need to get to a shop to get sizing and backing, if I don't have any in my stash.   I know I need sizing.

It was a lovely though cool day today.   Nicky and I are taking short walks now, if the weather is good.    Still not going around the block.   I think I would get too tired, but we go up a block and then back when we get the mail.     Good thing.  After all, I did get him to "walk me":)

Supposed to be up in the 80's for both tomorrow and Sunday.    Boy are we on a weather roller coaster.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Back to simple radiation only today.   I am still exhausted from the double chemo/rad  and should not have to do that ever again.   Should be done with all treatments, as I say, by mid December and be declared cancer free early in 2018.   Yea.    

Aside from the Rad treatment, it was a very quiet day.   Good thing as I took a two hour nap this afternoon.   I did switch out my Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations.   So something got done.

Tomorrow.  Same old, same old.   Radiation and whatever.

til then

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Halloween!!.

I survived my radiation/chemo double up OK.   It took five hours.    I got there on time at 9:30AM.  They were running behind so it was 10AM before they took my blood for Labs.   Then I was late,  10:30 when they got me back to the Chemo place.    BUT they don't have enough people in the lab and it was 12:30 or later when they finally started the infusions.     I wasn't home until 2:30PM.   They tell me to EAT then keep me prisoner over lunch hour.   Go figure.

So the whole day is shot as I have little or no strength for anything.   6PM to 8PM I have to be ON for the trick or treat kids.   So far I have had three sets.  It is 6:30PM already but I imagine the last hour will be the busiest. 

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a cool but lovely day here in Lawton OK>

I went to the 8:30AM mass and joined friends for coffee and donuts in the hall afterwards.    Saw my friend Pam for the first time in weeks.  Seems she was not feeling well about the time I started back to church.    Go figure.

Gave Nicky a bath today.    He was getting a bit doggy smelly.    He doesn't seem to mind baths.   I remember  that Zero used to just hate them and would cower in terror at the word.

Aside from that, just rested.   I am feeling  somewhat tired and "frayed".

Well I am almost half way through all of the chemo AND radiation.   Should be done before Christmas.  Yeaaaaa.


Dia Dhuit

Mary

Had to go to a funeral this morning.   Very sad.   A man I met through the Quilt Guild was killed in an electrical accident, helping a friend.    Much to young, and much to soon.  

The rest of the day I just did some sewing, napping and general puttering around.   There is so much to be done after my months of inertia.   I have to remember that it doesn't all have to be done at once:)

Four of my Celtic Friends called me on their way back from IBAM.   What a joy to talk to them.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A day of accomplishment.

I now have 13 of the 30 radiation treatments under my belt.   On Halloween I will be half way through.   I am feeling kind of sore in my trachea and tummy but will get through this.  

I took my car in for service today.   My van is 5 years old and only has 26000 miles on it.   I like it.  

Worked on a quilting project today.   I am getting a bit of motivation back these days.

Talked to Dolores today.    I am so blessed to have so many people who care about me.   

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Too much to do today, but it worked since I was able to take a nap this afternoon.

Just got back from Holy Family's bible study dinner.   That was fun.   I need to get out or the house in social settings when I can.   Good to visit and share a meal with good people.

I am exhausted, however, so will be going right to bed.   Nicky is trying to tell me that it is time:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Very busy day

Lab and radiation.

Then Nora and Leif came and we went out for lunch and then stopped by to see Bart.  It is always so fun spending time with them.   We never run out of conversatin.

Finally, Writers Club this evening.  Hadn't been since July so was really glad to get back.   There were four of us.    We should figure out how to stimulate more interest.   I would personally like a poet or two.

Tomorrow will be just as busy.

Dia dhuit

Ready for bed

Mary

Man cutting slate at the slate mine exhibit in Caearmartin Wales.    One of those almost lost arts.




Well, back to radiation today.     I told them about my stomach pain and have a new medication that I have started taking.   Sounds like it is to neutralize everything.    I just hope it works.

Stopped to see Bart on my way home.   He is really experiencing a lot of pain in that shoulder but seemed a bit better today than yesterday.   Healing hurts sometimes.   But hopefully the repairs are true and the pain will be gone!!!

Tomorrow will be having lunch with Nora and Leif.    I am so looking forward to that.

Radiation and lab test in the morning.   But will be home WELL before noon.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Suzi, Me and Helen in our matching sweatshirts.   Aren't we the cutest girls you ever did see?

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got back from Abby's birthday party at the Hong Kong Buffet.   That was fun.    Timothy and Amber were here with Augie,  so all three of Bart and Barb's grandchildren, my great grandchildren were there.  

Am very tired.    Was pretty busy today around the house.   I am trying to eat more but it is not easy.  I seem to be doing OK again.   It is hard to eat when one is not hungry and one's stomach hurts.  I am sure the latter is the radiation.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, I got a couple of pictured posted.   Now I need to work on getting groupings.   And it is still such a chore.   I MISS PICASA.  

Radiation this morning.  Now I get two days off.   Stopped to see Bart on my way home.  He looks really good for all the work they did on him.  Now he needs to heal.

The rest of the day was reasonably quiet.   Next week is very busy, as is the weekend.  Tomorrow is my Great Grandaughter, Abby's birthday.   Will be going to her party.   She is quite a girl.    Tim and his family will be here also so I will see all of my grand and great grandchildren from Barbara this weekend.   Yea.

Have a great weekend.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Suzi and Me at the Roman Baths with Cesar himself!!!!

The Roman Baths in Bath England

The surgery took longer than expected, BUT was a success.   They put in two screws and did the necessary repairs.

Bart and Barb are on their way home.

Thanks for the prayers and keep good thoughts as they wend their way home.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Two very busy days.  

Yesterday, I had my radiation followed by a consultation with Dr. Smith, my radiation doctor.   I was able to clarify some questions that I have had about the treatments and the effects.   Apparently, the fact that my tummy is sore often is a result of these treatments.   All I can do is treat the effects with Tums and Pepcid.

I did join my Bible study group for the first time in three months.  Sure glad to be back with that group of people.    They are part of the prayers that have been keeping me afloat.


Bart and Barb went to the city yesterday for his preop.  He went into surgery shortly after lunch today.   Haven't heard what happened as of yet.   They were hoping to be able to scope the repairs which would make it much less invasive.

Nicky and I spent last night at their house so the critters would not be alone.    I went over again about 10:30AM to let them out again.   If I don't hear before my garage door repairman (who is supposed to be here between 4PM and 5PM and it is that now) is done, I will go and let them out again.

Today, I had radiation this morning, took care of critters, then at 2PM went to the new Irish Pub called Shamrocks for the Irish club meeting.    We had a great group of 9 including two new people.   Wow.   We discussed Halloween.   I brought my usual carved rutabaga Jack O Lantern.   

The weeks are getting so busy.   Tomorrow I just have the radiation treatment so intend to start sending pictures of Wales and England.   I have instructions from Leslie and she will be available for help if I get stuck.

Glad to be home!

Dia Dhuit

Mary

water wheel

Water Wheel test
This is the water wheel (A device that keeps water out of mines) in Caernarfon Wales at the slate mine.    This is no longer a working mine, but is open as a tourist attraction.    We saw demonstrations of the slate cutting.   WOW.

This is a very large wheel.   I have also seen the Laxey Wheel on the Isle of Mann.,   The Laxey Wheel also known as Lady Isabella is the largest working wheel in the world.

Too much today.

Had radiation at 9:30AM.    Easy enough.   Came home to meet Kerry to let her in to clean the house.

Then at about noon, I went for lab tests at the Cancer Center and a consultation with Dr. Aye.  She answered several questions that I had and gave me a couple of prescriptions.     I took them to Walgreens and they said they would be ready by 3PM.

So I drove to Bart and Barb's to let the dogs out as the kids were in OK City to consult about Bart's shoulder.    (All went well there.   He will probably have the surgery within the week.   He sounds very optimistic.)      

Then things went wrong.   When I got to Walgreens, I found that one of the prescriptions had been issued in someone else's name!!!!   So I had to take it back to the Center and get a corrected one.   By the time I got through with all this mess, it was almost 5PM.    Poor little old me did not even get a nap today.   

I saw the Goodyear Blimp in the sky today.   Tomorrow I am going for a close up look with my neighbor, Lee.   How nice of him to ask me.     The Blimp is visiting the Goodyear Plant here in Lawton.

My creative juices are starting to move.  I have been doing a bit of sewing on a wall hanging and decorated for Halloween.

Have a great evening

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a good day.

I went to Mass this morning for the first time in over a month.   I can't tell you how much I missed it.  

The Knights of Columbus were having a pancake breakfast.   Guess who went and saw a lot of friends and got caught up.    Now I will be able to go every week.

The rest of the day was quiet.  I got calls from friends and was feeling a bit creative, so things are improving.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A quiet day at home.    I had purchased a pie pumpkin, so today I cooked it and now have the  pumpkin needed for a batch of pumpkin Decadent cupcakes and a pumpkin pie.   I also toasted the seeds.

Felt pretty good today.  Guess the Chemo effects are pretty much gone.

It was a beautiful day in Oklahoma, up into the 80's.   We are cooling down for the next few days and may even get some rain tonight.

I am planning on going to church tomorrow.  I really miss being there but just have not been able to face those hard pews.   But I am bringing a pillow tomrrow:)

Dia dHuit

Mary

Well, here we are, the end of a week.   Friday the 13th.  

I am trying to get pictures in but keep getting an error.   Any suggestions? 

Today I had my third radiation treatment.   They are just uncomfortable because one has to hold still with one's arms over your head.   I felt a bit goofy from Tuesday's Chemo.   I am still not throwing up or losing hair so I am just trying to rest myself through the tired and icky feelings.  And am grateful for that.


 I will keep trying to copy and paste pictures which is all I know.   I miss Picasa.   I could do anything with that.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Today was the first of 30 radiation treatments.   The first one takes a bit longer but the rest should go quickly.   It was painless.   The hardest part is holding still while they do the zapping.  The big thing will be going every week day. 

I felt pretty good most of the day, as has been common the day after Chemo.  But this afternoon, I can feel myself fading fast,    Just want to get through to bedtime and hopefully will sleep tonight.    With this combination of chemo drag AND jet lag, I am exhausted.  Why can't I sleep?

Got all my mail delivered from the stop mail.   Got bills to pay tomorrow.   Had a LOT of junk mail to throw away also.

Glad the next 5 days are fairly quiet as I need to recover from Chemo.    I was told there would be three chemo treatments but another one showed up in three weeks on my schedule.   Will check on that with Dr. Aye on Tuesday when i have my lab tests.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A medical day.  I had to be at the Cancer Center for my third Chemo this morning at 9:45AM.   

It was endless.   They were short people in the lab, so the start of the actual chemo after the bloodtest was TWO hours rather than about 45 minutes.  Then they added on an infusion to bring my calcium level down which meant that I was not done until close to two PM.    I was exhausted.

Then I called my GP about a miner problem which I was concerned about.  She had me come in this afternoon and was able to tell me that is IS miner.    Thank God.  I don't need any other health problems and will not go into it.

Tomorrow I start my 30 days of radiation therapy.   I am picking Bart up at 8AM and we are going to breakfast.   It has been determined that his shoulder injury is a severe break and he will have to have surgery to correct it.    Why the initial XRay did not show this, I am not sure.   But he should not drive any more than necessary.  But if I feel tired or weak, he can take over.    Two halves make a Whole, RIGHT?

Guess That is all.   Enouth, Right!

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hi Again!!! I am back from my trip to England/Wales intact.   It was wonderful.  There were 25 people n the tour.  We had a wonderful tour director in Amanda who is a resident of Wales and our driver, Charlie, who reminded me every time I started to leave the bus without my cane.    I am not used to it but am better now.

FYI:   I don't need it around the house or for short "jaunts" but I found it invaluable for the longer walk abouts and it is not a bad idea to just have it there to lean on if I get tired.    It is a breathing thing.  Getting better but I need to keep building lung capacity

On Tuesday I have my last scheduled Chemo for this session and on Wednesday I start radiation.   I am supposed to be retired, I feel like I have a job now as I will be going for chemo every weekday.  (Not on weekends however.)

Nicky was sure glad to have me back.   I am so blessed to have a creature that loves me as much as he does.    I won't be leaving him again until April when I will go to the Wild Game Dinner AND the Celtic Women Conference.

The trip was so informative and fun.   We wandered around Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, The Roman Baths, and took a river cruise in London.   One of our fellow travelers wants my poetry books and paid me to send them.   I am so delighted.  She said she is going to order my cookbook on Amazon.   Any of you that don't have it look up my name or Schlitzhagen and Green Meatballs and you can order it.

My drive from Plano Texas to home was uneventful and easy.  I know that I am still viable.  Thank you Nora and Leif for putting me up and transporting me to the airport .   I don't know if you know it but time spent with you and Bing and Stenn was a BIG part of my vacation.

I WILL figure out how to send pictures.  Stenn discovered that my phone pictures actually tell me the location of the picture.   Things were blurring and now my phone is helping me:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Yesterday I got lab tests and saw Dr. Aye, my oncologist.   That is the doctor you met, Bill S.    She was surprised that I was alone but Bart's shoulder was really hurting and I figured I could handle it.   The tests are fine.   I will miss one week of labs as I will be in Great Britain (YEA) but Dr. Aye said that was OK.   I will also have my third Chemo right after I get back.

I am feeling pretty good, considering.   I am tired but the pains of healing in my chest are a bit less.   Even the rainy weather we are experiencing is not aggravating the pain.

Today I did most of my packing.   I will be leaving for Plano tomorrow at about 10AM and was trying to not really alert Nicky of my intentions:)    He knows something is up and has spent quite a bit of the day snubbing me.    He will be able to be with Bart and Barb this time and he does love that so I really don't feel sorry for him.   

Bart and Barb had me over for supper tonight.   Barb make soup and a delicious brownie dessert.   She is such a good cook.   Marlies was there too.    So we had a nice family evening to see me off.    Marlies will be going to Germany shortly after I get back.   We are a couple of traveling people.

Well,  You probably won't hear from me.   If I DO get into a position where I can post, I will but don't plan on it.   Suzi and I will be enjoying all we can of the trip and I will update when I get back.   I promise to figure out how to post some pictures too.

Take care of you while I am gone.  I love you all.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Nicky had his followup on his allergy problem.   He is doing very well.   He still has some pills to finish and will need a little bit of ointment in his ears.  Dr Firorllo said that he has been having more allergy patients in the past weeks.   Must be something out there.

I am pretty much ready for the trip.  Trying to rest as much as possible and still get myself ready for being "out in the world."

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Yesterday was rather busy..   Bart took me shopping so I could have most everything I need for the Wales tour on Thursday and that wore me out.

Aside from that, I am feeling pretty good.   My mornings are a bit shaky but I still have not vomited and my body seems to be almost settled down after the second chemo.

Today I stayed home all day.  Would have liked to go to church, but those pews last week left me in so much pain that I had to really struggle to make it through communion.   Judy brought me the sacrament on Friday.   I am so blessed.

I am sorting clothes, and meds and STUFF on the spare bed for packing on Wednesday.   The trouble is always to realize that one does not need as much as you think you might.

Warm again today and we are supposed to get rain.   Just hope it is not raining still on Thursday when I drive to Plano.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Bret actually made it to his River home last night at about 8PM.   He said it was just clear sailing and conditions were perfect.   So glad he was here.   I miss him but we will not let so much time pass again before seeing each other one way or another.

Richard and Brenda called last night.   So good to talk to them, they always cheer me up.

Had a rather rough morning.  Still not throwing up but I don't feel well in the mornings.   I took the nausea pills and just rested.   Things were much better by afternoon again.    We'll see how tomorrow goes.   Sure glad that I don't have any responsibilities but me and Nicky.

We are still warm but it is supposed to cool down next week.   Of course, then I will be on my way to Wales.   Yea.   Please cross your fingers that I keep doing well.   At this point, I feel confident that though I will have to not be my usual do EVERYTHING NOW self, I will be able to really enjoy the trip.    Perhaps I will even see more than I usually do:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Bret left in the wee hours of the morning today.   I will miss him.  So blessed to have my him here and have him be able to spend time with his brother - the three of us together.

I can't begin to tell you how proud I am of my boys.

Hopefully the next time Bret comes we can "vacation" and see some of the wonderful things Oklahoma has to offer.  I hope he can bring his Janet.

I have come through the second Chemo pretty well.  Felt kind of goofy this morning but took the nausea pills and slept most of the morning.   I am hanging in there.   I have a whole week to get my strength back before the Wales tour.   I will be just fine.   I don't have to take care of anybody but me and Nicky.  That is manageable.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Sorry I haven't posted, but my Bret has been here since Saturday and I have been just enjoying being with him amid the big C stuff.

He was here with me for my second Chemo yesterday.   People are right.  It  is stronger.   I have not been REALLY nauseated but don't feel great either.   The morning was rather rough.  They say the second day is worse.   I hope they are wrong.   But at any rate, I am OK.   And only one more (scheduled Chemo) anyway.   The radiation will start right after the last chemo in early October.   I will have 30   (ICH) 30 radiation treatments - every day except weekends in a row.  Then they will reevaluate.  

Oh well.   I'll just have to beat this thing and I will have my England/Wales trip to muse on during those 30 days.

Thank you all for the good vibes.  I promise to be better about posting but having Bret here and seeing my boys together has been a real joy for me.   I feel truly blessed.    And having all of you in back of me is priceless.

Love you

Dia Dhuit

Mary