It's Cancer - Go Texans

It's Mr. B's turn to have a cold and sleep most of the day, so the rest of us had to have our private, indoor tailgate party without him. We had all the fixin's before the Texans started playing, but our bellies ran out of room after the queso and chips, pimento cheese, plus pigs in a blanket.

I guess we're already stocked for the next playoff game. Still available for consumption are two thin crust frozen pizzas, more queso fixin's, brownies, and chili. Well, maybe the chili and brownies will get consumed tomorrow while watching the Golden Globe awards. Watching ladies in beautiful gowns is my favorite sporting events.

Today I'm celebrating the Texans. Great game and win.

It's Cancer - Cold and reflective day

I recently blogged, with excitement, about attending an upcoming annual reunion in New Braunfels with high school girlfriends. Unfortunately, due to health issues of two organizers, the 2017 event has been canceled. Then we found out that another woman, who had hip surgery in December 2016, isn't recovering well. I wish the best to Candy, Karen and Katie as they seek treatment(s). The annual event is already on my calendar for 2018.

Thinking about Candy (who is dealing with knee and hip issues) and Karen (who has heart issues) takes me back to my cancer diagnosis and the wonderful support I have received from friends and family. I sent them the best advice I've received so far: (1) stay positive; (2) accept help from friends and family; (3) ask questions and get the answers you need; and (4) good books and music help to pass the time. I hope these tips help Candy and Karen and Katie as much as they have helped me.

Today I'm celebrating the return of Dr. Mc, Big Daddy Nick, and TLP. They have been gone from the house for a week and it's good to have these chickies home.

It's Cancer - Some different side effects

The Paclitaxel (or Taxol) drug I'm receiving now is presenting some different side effects from the other medicine I received during Phase 1 of chemo. I've noticed tingling in my hands, joint and muscle aches, and some pain in my chest around my injection and tumor sites. These are all listed as possible side effects that usually occur on days1-2 after chemo and then go away. For the most part, these are just irritating and not a concern unless I get a fever of 101 degrees or higher. Also, last night I didn't sleep a wink, which fits with insomnia that is listed as a possible side effect.

My red blood cell count continues to be low (causing me to tire easily and become short of breath). Although they haven't occurred so far, the mouth sores and red rash I had during Phase 1 may return. And my nails may become darker and develop white streaks and ridges. I'm happy to report that my white blood cell count is good, as is my liver function and platelet count. I haven't had much nausea. All in all, I'm doing OK. For sure chemo is taking its toll on my body, but it could be much worse. I'm not in bed in the fetal position with severe nausea and stomach cramping as I was for days after chemo during Phase 1.

Today I'm celebrating cold weather. I don't think it's supposed to get above 60 degrees today, and it will be even colder through Sunday or Monday. I love being able to layer up and forego a bra.

It's Cancer - Chemo Part 2, Number 3 of 12

Weekly chemo started this morning at 11:15 a.m. with blood work. The technician was so fast that I barely had my sleeve up before she was done. Great job! Next was port access where I had to wait an hour. Bad job! And then to chemo. I'm home now and feeling fine. This round of chemo is much easier on my body than the first six treatments I had.

Sweetness was my chemo buddy today. She has gone with me when I only had doctor visits and when my chemo was cancelled because I had a bad cold, but this was her first time to sit through chemo. I sleep on and off during chemo, which makes it easy for me. I feel sorry for the person who just sits in the chair and watches me or television. It must be extremely boring.

Today I'm celebrating Diane. I can't say enough good things about this wonderful neighbor who is always leaving goodie packages and notes on my front porch. This morning she left a jar of peppermint bark and a gift box of lip balm. She is such a sweetheart!

It's Cancer - And it's Kendall's birthday

Tomorrow is my first chemo treatment of the new year. That means that I wash the bedsheets and quilts today. I like coming home from chemo and crawling in bed with soft, clean sheets.

I've had the most incredible craving for sweets lately. Last night I was going through every cabinet in the kitchen looking for something sweet. I finally found two small pieces of chocolate in a gift basket.

Today I'm celebrating Dr. Kendall Elyse McCarley. I'm so proud that my oldest is a caring person who has accomplished so much in her life. Keep up the good work, Dr. Mc.

It's Cancer - Beautiful day after heavy rains

If I didn't have a bald head you'd never know I have cancer. I have energy. An appetite. And not an ache anywhere. Oh happy day! It's a good health day.

I have such an appetite that I'm eating mixed leftovers. I have two crab cakes left from Friday night (they should still be OK to eat, right?). Plus, I have two quesadillas from last night. Now, just thinking and writing about this food combination has made me sick to my stomach. Maybe the second crab cake isn't such a good idea.

Today I'm celebrating a quiet day at home. I didn't realize that Mr. B had the day off and the kiddos are still out of town.

It's Cancer - Happy New Year

I'm pretty sure I was having a good year until September 2016. My family was close and doing well. I had taken several wonderful trips. I was learning to enjoy retirement. And I was having a good time creating. Then there was the diagnosis of stage 2 breast cancer.

My New Year's resolution is that I will remain positive and move forward with the strong belief that I will beat breast cancer. I don't know if I will finish my journey in 2017, but I'm positive that I will be cancer free in the future.

Today I'm celebrating all my friends and family who have supported me and given me encouragement since my diagnosis. I'm sure this won't be the last time I write and/or say that I couldn't do it without all of you.