TIME TO CIRCLE THE WAGONS GIRLS
Comments
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Hi all-
Just when I am thinking I am down and out for the count, a day like today makes me realize how lucky and blessed I am.
I'm home with the family I love. It frosted hard last night and the sun is so bright today it feels like we are closer to the sky up here in the north land. We are harvesting the last of my wonderful garden and just putzing around the house.
Then I got the following e-mail from a friend. I had written her an e-mail saying I had forgotten to do something and was missing my brain these days. I want to share it with you because it applies to all of us. Some days I see myself as sickly and flawed, but that is not always how others see us:
Deb - be much eaiser on yourself!
In the big picture - who cares if you forget something. You accomplish more and care for a family under odds that would fell most.
Your courage and humor under the most difficult of odds is a lesson in grace.
When i hear people complain how tough they have things because they can't have some little things they think is important at the moment, I makes me sad , they are unable to appreciated just being healthy and alive.
So be kinder to yourself, my friend. you live, parent,love, write, be a wife, daughter, sister, friend and are an insperation to others under conditions they give men purple hearts for.
Soldier on.
Nan
So my dear freinds, I am off to spend the rest of the day with my family. I hope you all have a great day and remember to be kind to yourself. Sometimes we need others to remind us to do that....
Hugs to all
Deb C.0 -
Is tonight the chocolate fountain party? Always early for a party LOL!
I've got graham crackers, marshmallows, strawberries, bananas, sponge cake and pineapple here.0 -
Hello all,
I have just finished reading some of this thread and this circle feels wonderful to me. I have been hanging around trying to decide where to go, where to post since I finished my treatments. This may be just the place.
I am still dealing with some issues like having to use O2 when I sleep or exercise and I have to have a shot of Lovenox everyday because I developed a clot this summer right after I started tamoxifen. I am still on the tamoxifen.
I am seeing a gyn/onc on October 25 to think about having my ovaries out. i certainly don't need them anymore. i just hate to think about surgery as I am just coming out of my whole bc year. I am also seeing a ps for a consult, doing blood tests and seeing my regular onc.
But right now I am feeling great, teaching full time and trying to keep the family going too.
Tomorrow will be a great family day. My hubby, 16 year old daughter and my self will go to visit my other daughter who is in college in Worcester, MA and then on the way home stop to see my son who graduated this May from UMASS at his apartment in Sunderland.
Well I have certainly gone on long enough. Thanks for listening
Kathy0 -
i have green seedless curried grapes to go in that fountain of chocolate........nobody go "eeeew" till you try one lol!
the combination is increbibly addictive!
can't stay up late girls......i've got a 5k "walk" in the morning.......life does go on!0 -
Had a good day. Ready to ride around the train and keep us all safe. Didn't bring any food but I did see NoSurrender and Chemosabi practicing for the chocolate fountain tomorrow.
Worried about Robin. I called again today and got the same message. Does anyone else have a phone number and want to try? (((Robin))) Miss you sweetie.
Good for you AlaskaDeb. I think you got the right idea.0 -
Just checking in to say a sleepy goodnight to all and send the best thoughts for debbyfive and robinTN. Don't know if it's allowed around the campfire, but offering a little Bailey's Irish Cream to those who indulge...just the thing to celebrate (?) my first tamoxifen today...sweet (chocolate fountain?) dreams, all. Leigh
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Hoping we hear from Robin and Debby5 soon---makes us all a little nervous when a sister goes silent. Has anyone been in touch with anyone from D5's family?
DebC---glad you are home and mellow with life. Keep trying to PM you but sometimes life just gets so hectic---ya know? How much longer do you have to go?
Peggy--has work calmed down?
Shel---hope your life is currently filled with only good men. Even if they are in the basement.
Nicki---get that resume ready! (nag, nag, nag.) But you would be so good at it. If you have seen the ad again you know it's the universe telling you to get your butt in gear.
Really tired tonite so I'm wandering off to my wagon again. Asked PA at the PS Thursday if I should be so tired from revisions---not a big deal surgery. She pointed out to me that 6 surgeries in 16 months (with general anesthesia)---the last 2 only 2 weeks apart---will knock the socks off of you. (Mercifully, she didn't add, "at your age"!) Has anyone else in the circle had trouble shaking off anesthesia? I feel like such a slug. Not a good thing with a whole houseful of houseguests coming for a week next Sunday----can't even get interested in cooking ahead and that is weird!!
Sleep tight all and hugs to everyone I forgot. Didn't take notes---that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Jeannie0 -
I hope everyone is feeling well tonight. I think I am pretty much back to normal now, still missing my dad but I am sure that feeling will never end. I just got home from a hectic evening shift at the hospital, long night! Hoping all our dear sisters especially Carrie and Debby5 and Robin check in soon.
Hoping for a good nights sleep and comfort for all sisters in need.
love to all, Tina0 -
Welcome Kathy glad you decided to join us.
I have to re-do my peak test I think I've been a little off on my Lovenox and it showed up. If I'm still low on the next test they'll increase the anount I have to take. Don't want that. Only a month and a half left on it I hope! You better get to practicing if you're going to go to that convention next month! I know it's hard to give yourself a shot but you can do it. If I can you can too.
Tina glad you're feeling better. Just remeber your Dad will always be with you.
Alaska Deb your friend is so right you have been through so much who cares if you forget something.
Nicki, stop playing in the fountain and get that resume done, nag nag nag0 -
yum - never tried them shel, sounds good.
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Good Morning! Mother Nature is trying to fool us here at the Chicago end of the circle. It's a cool morning, still dark, but there is a nice warm almost summer like breeze. Here by tomorrow it will be in the 80's again. Guess Im gonna have to get rid of my winter jammies and get the summer ones out again. The sky is beautiful with many stars to look at. I put a new log on the fire and coffee is on.
October 1st, already!! Time is just flying by. I brought a new wagon to the circle. Its right where new people come wandering in. It is illuminated in pink and says welcome. Had to do something pink to appreciate Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Want to make sure everyone knows they are welcome here in the circle.
Waking up in the morning (when ya dont have to go to work) is just wonderful. Can sit here and appreciate the sounds of the Forest. I hear some snoring in the background so I am sure some of you finially were able to get some sleep. The scent in the air is delightful. Would think its Spring instead of Fall.
Deb C.: It is so nice to hear you cheerful again and enjoying time with your family. Thanks for sharing your friends letter. It was really nice.
Vickie: Oh such yummy things for a chocolate fountain. Learned alot more about Trenton's mom last night. She really did have alot of psychological issues. Heard she was a "cutter" - inflicted injury to herself. My the story just gets sadder as each day goes on. What a shame.
KathyR: So glad you found the circle and glad that treatment is over. Sounds like you have your hands full. Next time you have a complication, make sure to come here. We will put you in the middle of the circle and make sure you are well taken care of. Getting a blood stinks! But Im glad your better. I had my ovaries removed. They put two one inch slits on each side. It was pretty easy compared to what we have been through. So good luck with that. What is your appointment with the PS for. Maybe we can help you gather all the questions you need. So pull up your wagon and rest awhile.
Susan: Oh what a great picture of the chocolate fountain. And geez, you have me pegged. Who needs fruit when you can scoop up handfuls of chocolate. I picture myself afterwards, just laying by the campfire, belly full, with chocolate all over my mouth. Even got some in the short bit of hair that I hair. Yes! Im satisfied!
jpsgirl: OMG! what a great idea. Baileys in the chocolate fountain. Im would be in heaven. Glad you got to sleep early, think I just heard you snoring a while ago.
Shel: Good luck at the 5K tomorrow. You have to come back and tell us all about it.
Jeannie: I had 3 surgeries in 6 weeks last summer. The anesthesia kicked my butt. Took about one month before it was out of my system. Just sleep and relax. You have lots of time before the party. Anyway you can get it catered? Oh and by the way, its not just the anesthesia, but also all the stress and fear that went along with the surguries. This past September hasnt been the easiest for you. Found out you can get a chocolate fountain for about $30 bucks. Now that would be a hit at your party without alot of preparation. Sleep well tonight.
Tina: Glad to see you back. It seems like things are pretty hectic out there in health care. Lots of sick people. Sorry again about the loss of your dad. At first your pretty much in shock, now reality starts to sink in. We are here for you - anytime, anywhere.
Cheryl: Nutty Nicki Nurse is standing with her hand on her hip, stomping her left foot and pointing her Italian finger at you. Of course your blood test is off if your not taking the Lovenox regular. Did you tell them you missed some doses? Hope the next blood test comes out good.
Peggy: Havent heard from you in a couple of days. Hope everything is going well. Stress we can always try to manage, but wondering how you are doing with the medication induced hot flashes? I remember you saying you were in a 5K today also for bc. So please let us know how you are and how the walk went.
Robin: Whereever you are dear, we are so worried about you. Please let someone know you are ok.
debbyfive: Hoping the surgery is over and that you are doing well.
Well, its Sunday, so I have a wonderful breakfast ready for us. Made frittatas again. Have plain, one with cheese, one with olives and onions, one with sausage. Oh and I found the greatest eggs at the store. They are organic! So our vegen sisters can enjoy a wonderful breakfast. And for those who are on low low fat? Have egg white omelets for ya. Hope the aroma of them cooking starts to drift through the wagon circle. Nice aroma to wake up to.
Well, time to walk the perimeter and see how everyone is. Ill be back later.
Oh and about the job! I just found out there is a class you can take to become a Certified Breast Cancer Specialist. Gonna check this out and try to get certified.
Nicki
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Sending warm hugs to Tina. I lost my grandmother, then my mother, my grandfather and then my father. Then along came BC...I have had my days where I have just sat on the floor and cried "I want my mom, my dad, my gram and especially my grandfather" and then picked myself up and went on. They are all with me in spirit and love me whether they are here to tell me so or not as is your dad. It does get easier but the missing him will always be there. I don't know if this is even making you feel better, just a note from a "sister" who understands.
Nicki...I can't help but feel grief about Lindy...Trenton's mom...who knows what went on in that head of hers and its so sad that no one seemed to really see her anguish and pain. I know that she did many things wrong (too many to count) but reading her journals and blogs are heartbreaking, her lonliness and need is so evident. I still believe that she gave him to someone somewhere, just wish we knew where he was and if he was safe.
KathyR...welcome, this is a wonderful sweet place to be.
Sending healing prayers to RobinTN and Debbyfive, hope we hear something soon.
Shel...men in the basement!?! A girl after my own heart! Good luck on your run and hugs to you.
Susan...great picture of the chocolate fountain practice...don't tell anyone but I'm sitting on the floor between them with my mouth open like a kid catching snowflakes on their tongue LOL!
Alaska Deb...what a sweet friend you have...and her words are true so take them to heart.
Off to the waterfall to shower and coming back to share breakfast.
Love
Vickie0 -
Just a chuckle for the morning.
The Lone Ranger and Tonto were camping in the desert. After they got their
tent all set up, both men fell soundly asleep. Some hours later, Tonto
wakes the Lone Ranger, and says, "Kemosabe, look towards sky. What you
see?"
The Lone Ranger replies, "I see millions of stars."
" What that tell you?" asks Tonto.
The Lone Ranger ponders for a minute, then says,
"Astronomically speaking, it tells me there are millions of galaxies and
potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, it tells me that Saturn is
in Leo. Time-wise, it appears to be approximately a quarter past three in
the morning. Theologically, the Lord is all-powerful and we are small and
insignificant. Meteorologically, it seems we will have a beautiful day
tomorrow.
What's it tell you, Tonto?"
Tonto replies, "You dumber than buffalo dung. Someone stole tent."
Good thing were sleeping in wagons!0 -
Loved the joke, Vickie, I think we don't always see the obvious.
I hope you all enjoyed the chocolate fountain. It looked good.
We have a gorgeous day here and am going to try to get outside for awhile. Stayed cooped up in the house all day yesterday and watched movies (just started the first season of ER, will keep me busy for awhile). Was kind of depressed yesterday, not sure why. Too many things piling up right now, I guess. No more theater right now to get my mind off things.
Can't wait to get my test results Thurs. Maybe that will make me feel better.
I hope everyone enjoys their day today.0 -
IF ONLY the fountain was that big!!!
That is how I imagined it WOULD be. I wanted something we could bathe in.. but alas it was smaller. I kept thinking- they are going to need to get another chocolate fountain! I have an entire wagon train behind me!
When everyone got up to enjoy it, I actually got annoyed! I wanted it all for myself and YOU girls. I didn't share with anyone that I brought my "unseen" friends with me but my sister did ask me why I was pissed there was a line!
When I got to it though I saluted each and every one of my Circle sisters, and wished for sweet news, easy tests, smooth tx's and happier times for all of us.
I wish all of you could have been with me. I really do.
love,g0 -
Hi
can i come to the middle of the circle iam not sure how much more i can take.On sat 20th of september was my 60th my
daughters 30th birthday it was also the day my dad died 24yrs ago which always makes it a sad day i work up that morning feeling very unwell i have the flu and shingels then
the next day my son tried to take his own life but thanks to
god he was found in time he cant come to terms that my cancer is terminal he is so sad i dont know what to do to help him i have hospice at home care he wont talk to them then to top it all i have new neighbors who was asked politly to park there cars on there own drive as i have hospice care =carers = district nurses 4 times a day a and he is blocking my drives he was told my time is runing out
and he?exact words were i couldnt care a -uck the worst part is his wife is a nurse so this is adding to my sons depressant at the moment all he is doing is crying he wont talk so i dont know how i can help him
sorry i had to get this off my chest
i feel so alone
pauline0 -
Pauline-
Big hugs to you dear. You have WAY too much on your plate. Come to the center of the circle and let us take care of you. Pick a big fluffy quilt, and sit a spell in the biggest recliner. Take some deep breaths and rest. Give your son a big hug from me. Some times when we can't speak, a hug says a lot. I wish there was more I could do or some magic words I could say that would ease your pain.
You are not alone. I will pray for peace for your whole family.
Deb C.0 -
Pauline...I am so sorry to hear of all your troubles. Sending you a warm hug and putting you in the center of our circle. There is love, peace, hope, fun and happiness here to spread around to all who are in need.
Wish I could do more...praying for you and your family through this difficult (to put it mildly) time.
Vickie0 -
Pauline, I'm so sorry that you have to deal with all the added stress. I wish there were more I could do for you but you are in the center of the circle with everyone around to keep you warm. I'll say extra prayers for you and your son.
Margaret0 -
Pauline,
I have put a couple of logs on the fire - and added some of that special stuff that makes the flames different colours - green and orange and red and purple. The chocolat fountain is gushing, in case you can take a dip. And we are all sending loving kindness your way.
I hope someone can call the police for you to have them tell your neighbour to get out of your way.
Meanwhile snuggle in. Any favorite music we can play - we have a few music buffs in the wagons.
Jeannette0 -
Just did a head count and got 106!!! I know...bored silly tonight...we have to have the biggest wagon train in history.
Night all and sweet dreams.
Hugs
Vickie0 -
Pauline, your neighbor sounds like a real piece of work. And I'm so sorry this is so hard for your son. He can come in the circle too. We will all be his aunties. Tell him we love him too. So rest easy tonight. We are all with you. OOOH and I just knit you this cowgirl sweater to keep you warm and cozy.
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Apparently I was caught snoring last night (LOL Nicki)...I'll try to keep it quiet(er) tonight. Actually, come to think of it, my mom was staying at my place last night and...maybe it was her! Sorry, mom...
Pauline - I am so sorry you even had to hear what your neighbor said, or deal with such things in any way. Wish I were there to run interference. Hope someone else in your surroundings can do it instead. Meanwhile, try to feel enclosed in what's good in the world by our little circle (not so little I guess - 106!!) and feel free to bring your dear son too.
Sheri - Sending good thoughts about those test results - waiting is the worst - hope you find a little distraction here.
Okay - I know it's only 930 - but tomorrow IS Monday - the Bailey's is back in the cabinet - back to milk and cookies??
Leigh0 -
Girls,
I have been quietly reading these last few days. Not much time to post. There is so much going on here - and I am thankfull for all of you who are watching out for the girls close to the fire.
Have been very busy riding the range. Had a photojournalist here for 3 days taping an interview with me about BC and the differences in U.S. and Canadian health care for women with BC. Then after he left I walked - like Shell - in the Walk For the Cure. In Canada 51 different communities had over 170,000 walkers and runners out there for BC. YOu can do 1K or 5K. We did the 5 - and I am proud of myself since today marks 2 months exactly since my last chemo. Yeah!
There were easily 15,000 here. Despite the rain we had fun - and vowed to do it again next year. It was quite an experience. Also amazing to consider we were united coast to coast in this.
THen I came home and slept - and will do more of that in just a little while. But before that I will send warm hugs and love to all of you.
Jeannette0 -
Just checking around the circle for those already in bed making sure everyone is tucked in warm and sound. It's quiet tonight so hope everyone sleeps well.
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Hello ladies...just here to say I'm moving to the outer circle now...making room for the others!
I feel better...onc put me on Effexor so we'll see how that works. It seems to be making things *slightly* better which is GOOD because it hasn't even been a week! Thanks to EVERYONE who was so kind (and NNN for worrying...you're so sweet!).
Did the CIBC Run for the Cure today, 5k, was a BLAST! Very powerful!
Thanks for all the kind thoughts...still waiting for the Chillow, I KNOW it will come in handy!
Hugs to you all
Special hugs to Pauline...hang in there sweetie and tell the neighbours to go pound sand.
Love
Peggy0 -
Good evening ladies.... I see no mention of dinner?? Can I interest anyone in some grilled shrimp?
Last night at the party I saw a lot of people I haven't seen in years... since before I had shhh- they still whisper it- cancer-
So many of them came up to me and said "You look- um- OK! I mean you look -er- goood?" What did they expect me to look like?? Should I have worn a hospital gown and carried around an IV pole???
I also got the "are you cured?" and the "is it gone?" questions too... how are we meant to answer that? "Excuse me, let me go get a PET and get back to you?"
I missed my sisters last night! I had no one to make snarky comments to!
Jeannette! Bless you for walking! And so close to the end of your treatment! I hope we can get a link to that TV interview.
Leigh???? 9:30 is too late for Bailey's? I missed that memo! LOL!
Susan I LOVE that sweater!! You did a great job knitting it... are those Mallowmar crumbs I see??
Hey Vickie! 106 Circle girls! that is fantastic! And almost twenty five THOUSAND hits! Not bad for a thread that only is allowed 4 stars eh???
Hi Kathy! I am so glad you joined us here! I am on blood thinners too since treatment. I had a blood clot in my retina. I love your state! It is known as "Heaven" to me... because it is Ben and Jerry's land!
Jeannie, I am one of those people who can't shake off anesthesia...my cat is too! I know how you feel!
Pauline, dear, I am so very sorry about all that you have been through and about your son and how cruel people can be. Please come sit close by the fire with us.
Sheri, we are all holding your hand while you wait for your test results and praying for good results.
Tina, I just want to give you a big hug and have you come sit by me. I know your dad now lives in your heart with you every day and I hope soon the pain you feel is eased and replaced by all the love and warm and happy memories you shared together.
Oh Nicki? DIDN'T YOU TAKE THAT CLASS??? Once every three weeks and then every day for eight weeks straight????? I think you passed!
Lini! Is tomorrow your exchange surgery??? GOOD LUCK!!!!! We are ALL coming!
Deb!!! You are at the halfway mark aren't you!!! I hope your arm is holding up!
Robin, hoping you are ok...PHONE HOME PLEASE~
Debby, Glad you are home
God, THANK YOU for bringing our Carrie back to us!!
Lisa? how are you??? Pennylane?? how are YOU???
So many girls need our love and care. Come sit by the fire. There is plenty of love for all.0 -
SO GLAD you are feeling better!
And congratulations on doing that walk today!!!
Love you girlfriend!
g0 -
Oh My! I have been a busy girl in the circle this morning. Had to take care of some business! Coffee is on and I hope you all enjoy. Got decaf for Lini and anyone else that needs it.
Susan: I love the sweater. Looks like you took a picture of distorted humor and put him there. I want one I want one. Please knit one for me too?
Jeanette: Oh how exciting to take part in the walk and interview.
Peggy: Whew! Glad your ok. You Canadian girls were busy yesterday. CIBC Run For A Cure. Sounds great. Glad the Effexor is working. I thought of you last night when I woke up and my hair was soaked as was my pillow and pajama's. By time I got out of bed to change into dry things, I had chills. Like I said, I am the original hot mama.
NS: you are so funny. I did indeed look at my resume and realize to get a high profile job like the breast cancer specialist, I need to do a few things. So here I go - gonna get onc certified and bc specialist certified. Figure it should be pretty easy, since I have been learning about this disease since my diagnosis.
Pauline: I am so glad you found the wagon circle. You have so much on your plate. Please do come to the center of the circle and bring your son. Just ignore the stupid neighbor. He sounds nasty! Ya know many of us have children who are having difficulty coping with our diagnosis. I think we need a special wagon for all the children!
Anyways, when you feel up to it, come to the campfire. Sit down a bit and just talk. We are here for you.
Vickie: OMG 106! Thats amazing. A strong wagon circle we are.
OK! My time is up. Gotta get ready for work. Hope everyone has a wonderful day.0 -
I love being a part of this circle--thanks! I really didn't think this PET would get to me, but it is.
So glad you are better, Peggy!
Pauline, what a tough time you are having. Hope you are feeling the warmth of the circle.
Is Debbie5 home yet?
Still no news of Robin?
Had a quick minute--had to make a study guide for my 5th grade history class, so decided to check in.
Have a great day!0
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