My Husband, My Life, My Love, My Family, My Cancer

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  • mara51506
    mara51506 Posts: 7,370

    @irishlove Lentils are easy, they don't require crisping and can be put in any dish to be honest. I like them because they are small from the get go and absorb whatever tastes they are heated in. In an air fryer, I do 205 C, 392 F, that is max temp of my air fryer. 15 mins with stirs every 3 to 4 mins. My goal is not to make them totally crunchy as that can lead to burning but the outside to be crunchy. Anything can be put into an instant fryer to be honest as well. I have done rice, chopped beans and queso. I don't love eggs unless making a hard boiled egg. Put whole egg in on 140C and how soft

    I have been known to put lentils in a yogurt as well. Put those lentils and yogurt into my magic bullet with some mio flavouring. Fruit punch is my favourite. You cannot detect them at all. Save my chopped black beans to act as fake meat and they go well with rice. Hot dogs or chicken dogs are good as well when torn up into pieces and done in the air fryer, I like to go 10 mins at least on the highest temperature. Better than boiling in my mind.

    @cookie54 That is kind of you to say. I don't have a camera to use but in case anyone wants me to post how I make stuff, I will keep saying clearly how to make stuff. I am not a chef by any means, I just like to imagine inexpensive stuff going together.

    This morning, need to microwave up a big box of beef and macaroni. Once cool will put in the fridge, it has been on my mind to heat up as I do with beans and rice, unsure yet but need to heat up anyway. Also need to find another protein to use up as well beyond the meat pies. I am debating another Walmart shop this week or beginning of the next week. Need more yogurt, bananas and other stuff, also need to check on shredded cheese as well. I will see.

    On hold with cancer clinic, I have two appointments that are around 5 hours apart, want to see if I can get them closer together, even if just put appointment for Herceptin couple of hours closer. If not and the weather is good will go out for a meal, in hospital or nearby Mc Donalds. If not able to, can walk around the hospital. Figure it is worth it to try.

    EDIT Appointments that were 5 hours apart have been adjusted to be about 2 hours apart. Will get bloodwork earlier and then see my MO around 2pm, check in with chemo area and let them know I am at hospital in case MO appointments runs long. Also have RO appt to go ver MRI results.

    With regard to brain necrosis, I have an MRI next week, scan as usual as we do need to see if anymore rotten stuff shows up. Week after next I have a regular ct scan. I do not feel any scanxiety at this point, my mind is no longer riveted as it was when I got the necrosis news. I have sort of become, OK, that could be an issue, nothing and no symptoms means it is fine for today. I do not even have plans. There are certain things that could impact what I wish to do about recurrence. Not making definitive plans and no longer telling myself how tired I am but not making any decisions when I am depressed. Just keep eating good food.

    Anyway, enough yapping from me, hope all have a good day and in everyone's pocket. Need to make up a meal for myself will post if it seems good. In my own pocket to do my taxes, I am on disability so my return is pretty simple and not something that offers a lot of money. Do it online and it uploads all my tax info and receipts. Also need to update my renters insurance. Once those are done, can sit back and relax.

  • mara51506
    mara51506 Posts: 7,370
    edited March 11

    Have not eaten yet, heated up the 1 lb pasta which I thought was beef and tomato but was a lasagna. It is the great value so not expensive. Letting it cool, planning on putting into a container in the fridge. My thought was just taking 1/2 cup measures of it and found riced veggies in bottom of fridge so add that and some beans that I chop up, toss in the air fryer with some garlic spread, milder flavour as well, probably add some burger sauce, maybe 1/2 tsp or 1 tsp, some sour cream and onion seasoning, queso and a bit of ranch, getting good at not covering stuff in binders and such. I like all the flavours but need to keep track of amounts. Not looking for big crunch, just a faster heat up of my meal.

    I also want to add been making calls to DB and SIL every couple weeks and todays call gave me a new saying to tell myself if thinking I am too tired. SIL without too many details is on meds being titrated up, kind of like chemo we go through where we feel better until next appointment. The saying is what would Kelly do, she continues her day through all the nonsense and if she can do it, I can too. I told her that today when I called her. I just updated on my more realistic approach to my situation. WWKD, she would go day by day until she could not. Not telling her that saying everyday and not yet going tell her she is an inspiration with all she does because she is not mushy. She is more straight forward. Also not mentioning the thought all the time, I told her today. Need to keep different things in mind to keep my own mind sitting easier when stuff comes, this new one is good for if I do not feel like doing stuff or wimping out even if I could do something for 5 mins. I am also going to start making a schedule on doing stuff as my day can get wasted watching stuff on streaming, being on the computer. Oh well, lunchtime.

    Lunch is some of the riced veggies, 2 vegan meatballs that have been in the freezer a long time, some of the lasagna heated up and black beans. Just occurred to me I could use my masher to shrink down the beans instead of always chopping. Used 1/2 cup of the lasagna, 1/2 cup riced veggies and 1/2 cup of black beans. Added garlic spread and sour cream before filling everything up, am doing for 15 mins and see how it looks from there.

    EDIT The riced veggies, 2 vegan meat balls, lasagna and riced veggies was super good. All incredients were 1/2 cup of each. The garlic spread was good. Did stir everything and once the meatballs heated through I did mash those and the beans along the way. I ran the air fryer for the 15 mins with interruptions for mashing the meat balls and every 3 to 4 mins of removing tray and stirring. I did add white cheddar dry seasoning and sour cream and onion as well. So very good, the fiber is good as well.

    Well, pulled a WWKD and took out 3 rather large garbage bags. Did use a cane and tossed the bags down the stairs. Had to put them out one at a time, no help from anyone nor do they owe me help. Got the minimal out and may take some more after supper, I will see about my energy level, I can take out a blue bag of containers, litter and a laundry container and perhaps one more black bag but light. Still have to check my set up out back and see about giving more space to myself out back, SIL added some stuff out there and it is sitting on top of my personal garbage container. Still keeping it all looking neat so no complaint from property manager.My stuff also does not impede or take up space that neighbours may need either, no tripping hazard either. I did attempt to check on my own garbage can at back of driveway but no way to open the latch that I could find.

    Supper meal locked in. Use a big bowl, spraying it with cooking spray, add 1/3 cup of black beans, mash them up with the meat masher, add some more garlic and butter then the egg, possibly 2 eggs, mix those first then put a mini beef pot pie, with the beans and the eggs, don't want leftovers. Microwave longer since microwave is not super powerful, probably 6 or 7 mins on high. I will see what condiments are needed but I believe will be good. I will post good or bad.

    Meal 2 with the beans, mashed up and garlic with butter pats as well as spray, used two eggs with the beans whipped up the egg then just plunked a mini pot pie in the middle. Covered with a lid and heated up for 7 mins, since my microwave is 700 watts I tend to add 2 mins or so to cooking times as most instructions give 1000 to 1200 W. I will say this meal was super good as well, liking to be able to mash the beans vs the chopper. Although my choppers work, less work to mash up beans and less dishes. I will continue making meals this way.

  • cookie54
    cookie54 Posts: 1,318

    @irishlove Great news on the eye exam , one less issue is always a win! Plus a bonus of spending quality girl time with DD is priceless. Sounds like a win win on the birdbath , it's the simple things in life that make us happy. Thanks for the compliment on the flower cart, it was fun!

    @mara51506 Well if you had a video while making your meals it would be a success. I love your new saying for sil, that is very sweet of you! Even though she is not a gushy person I'm sure that warmed her heart.

    One more day here of the early Spring weather which I'll take. DH and I spent most of the day outside cleaning up garden beds and we grilled some burgers for dinner last night. It is a nice preview of the nice weather that's on the way next month. MO on Thursday for my monthly appt other than that I plan to spend the day outside again today.

    Hi to all here , sending strength and sunshine your way today!🌺

  • mara51506
    mara51506 Posts: 7,370
    edited March 11

    Yeah, I mentioned that WWKD saying to her and DB. I empathize with feeling drowsy on certain drugs but to have to get titrated up every couple of weeks to a high level is something else entirely. I called them and plan to every couple of weeks or so.

    Today is Herceptin day, went from sunny yesterday to heavy rain today but as luck would have it, no need to wait outside, my phone tells me when ride is expected and arrives.

    Simple meal before I go. I have a container of lasagna left over, got beans as well, thinking have some mashed up beans, they come out close to ground beef. May put some rice in the mix as well. Got laundry on to start with. May also try the yogurt, sour cream and water. Not time for food yet but could prepare stuff earlier, laundry on the go. Doing a disinfect cycle first with lysol laundry disinfectant then doing regular cycles. Had some really super dirty window wipe up among other things. Since have 3 cycles going on, going to take them all down to 10. I use vinegar to keep stuff from staying heavily soapy feeling even though I barely use a couple of drops and a spray if need stain treatment. I did buy some bounce dryer sheets helping to lower the static cling feeling. Since my dryer is small, I will cut the dryer sheets in half at least and smaller if only couple of things than use the used one as a cloth to clean window sills and as a general duster.

    I am thinking of beans mashed, 1/2 cup of lasagna and some garlic bread. Does not take long to heat up, got plenty of english muffins. Decided to scrap the rice as there is already pasta to have and want at least half an english muffin with garlic spread. Will post if I have good meals.

    EDIT first meal will be a couple of bean and beef burritos, I want simple. After I get home, meal above may enter the fray. Right now would appreciate a simpler meal.

    Putting a wig and make up usually do not take that long to do. I do not do my eyes, just a contour underneath on cheeks and side of nose, then take a bit of bb cream and moisturizer, put on my face, add concealer under eyes, powder and blush and a hint of colour on my lips, freshly brushed wig and Bob's your uncle.

    I do hope all have a good day, in pockets for everyone as well. We are getting some heavy rain that is for sure.

  • cookie54
    cookie54 Posts: 1,318

    @keywestfan Hey there it's nice to meet you! Well 92 is amazing in itself, glad you're strong enough to handle treatment . Sounds like you have great determination and having a plan to make graduation is the best motivation you can have! As for me when I was first diagnosed Stage IV it took me a year to accept and to try to get in the right headspace for my next battle. Trust me I do think about my demise and will I be here to see grandkids or my youngest (26) get married. I have strong faith and decided I can't carry this load alone and it doesn't matter because it's not my plan anyway.I try my best to live in the present so I can enjoy the time I will be here whatever that might be. So yes, keep living in the lull as you are because you're doing everything you possibly can on your end!

    @intolight Hope your lungs sound clear and you start feeling better soon. Even if you have to be off treatment before Monday that won't make a difference in your PET results on Monday. We're all in your pocket for good results. Hugs

    @threetree How 's Xeloda going?

    I've been dealing with seasonal allergies starting too. I swear they have gotten worse as I aged or after Keytruda. Anyhow I started using Flonase nasal spray( as needed) and it definitely relieves my nasal irritation along with daily Claritan. It's ok I'm willing to pay the price for Spring weather and beautiful flowers!

    Off to monthly MO appt and maybe a little shopping on my way home. Wishing all here a good day🌞

  • intolight
    intolight Posts: 2,986

    Perhaps I need to try Claritin. I seem to be better this morning with only a minor cough. Thank you for all your prayers.

  • mara51506
    mara51506 Posts: 7,370
    edited March 12

    @mkestrel I am so sorry about the progression and treatment change coming. I am in your pocket for few SE as you adjust to new meds. Cancer really is a big freaking jerk. I do like the picture and glad you got out with your brother.

  • keywestfan
    keywestfan Posts: 375

    Thank you all for the welcome and the friendship. Bone Mets in July were a surprise since it had been 6 years from IDC stage 1, grade 2 dx in 2019and I was just beginning to see my wonderful onc only once a year. Now it’s once a month. First line of letrozole failed, am now on Ibrance and Faslodex. They do make me tired and hard to walk my 10k steps a day. Down to 7k. And onc at only 67 is retiring. But says he has set me up with a Star for continuation of care. Her name is Mia Levy.I googled and she does seem starlike, but losing him feels like another of the losses that age brings.

  • irishlove
    irishlove Posts: 758
    edited March 14

    @goldensrbest and others that will be affected by weather sat. march 14 thru tues. March 17. Oh my word, March is going out like a lion. Our area looks like conditions are ripe for tornadoes and lots of rain/stormy weather. Then after the front passes, back down to 30's and 40's. I saw snow is forecasted for Upper Peninsula Michigan, etc., in the 30 to 40 inch range. What surprised me was the weather for the east coast with that area being in severe storms and possible tornadoes. This is a crazy winter. Someone said the only bright spot is it might delay the formation of hurricane season, that starts June 1. I doubt it.

    @mkestrel I forgot to mention how cool those teeth are. What a great find. My best find was an arrowhead that was large and in excellent shape. Sis found a huge antler down our driveway in Boone. We also enjoyed luna moths and I can't recall the name of the other large moth that visited, but DGD still talks about it. I do hope you are feeling better.

    @mara51506 You know Mara I keep thinking you could put together a small booklet of receipes and perhaps title it "Nutritional Meals For Fixed Budgets" or "Cooking with Seasonings". I bet you would do well with this. Perhaps a You tube video and see if there are any "bites" for more. Pun intended. I think you are quite talented!

    Wanna bet I stay in bed tomorrow? I felt good today so of course I over did it. Got the dirt laying on the bottom of the pool swept to the drain and cleaned sides of tiles. Did weed-whacking with this cool new device DH bought on line. It's light weight, small, push like a mower, has a plastic cutter instead of a line and battery operated. We did the whole front yard as our lawn has turned to clover and wild flowers. Minor grass. lol

    In pockets for all my sweet friends here on the porch.

    Laurel

  • mara51506
    mara51506 Posts: 7,370
    edited March 14

    @irishlove Nothing wrong with a restful day following a productive day. Sounds like you got quite a bit done too. Hats off to you. Thank you for your suggestions, too shy to be on camera, sharing here is great though. Yes, I can give some good budget saving meals and do comment, usually on facebook on what people can make. I saw someone who says they live alone and that they are spending 200 per week shopping. Lots of fresh veggies, good cuts of meat, dessert and junk food listed. No real checking of prices seen in the videos and no store brands. Lots of commenters made suggestions about looking for sales, find clearance items in the meat section and freezing when get home, frozen veggies are less expensive and just as nutritous. Oh well. Most weeks I stay within 40 bucks not including cost for getting stuff in 2 hours. Oh well, lots of resources both on youtube and facebook groups with good ideas for good food on a budget.

  • mara51506
    mara51506 Posts: 7,370
    edited March 14

    Was dealing with insomnia, last time I remember looking at the clock was around 4 am, then fell asleep on the couch and by gosh it was 1012am. I slept right though clips about movies. That is OK. Doug out some sock mops, plannig to do some mopping, a good sweep as well to improve my floor condition. It only takes about 2 seconds for cats to jump out of the litter box and trail litter even with a litter mat, its fine. When I take the time to do it, takes about 2 mins to clean up a room. The microfibre mop is the only part I am lazy about. I did locate my sock mops, only one pair and did a quick once over, in washer now. Will set up microfibre mop later.

    I am planning to work on using up my hot dogs but need to take them out of packaging and separate them by 4 or so at a time, this is requiring me to get freezer bags, put four in at a time and pull out as required from freezer. I will keep a few in fridge but not 24. I do have beef I want to brown as well. My air fryer can do it from frozen, just have to keep an eye on it and use a masher as it heats through and if grease released, I have paper towels to mop out any grease that shows up. I would take beef put in a container when cool and possibly boost with hot dog and lentils, add rice to meals or ramen. Very healthy meals would be possible. Will post what I come up with. Egg smoothies, lentils, rice or ramen along with my beef or hotdog are also possible, whip ingredients up in the magic bullet and I would do in the air fryer again. Preheating the fryer, already add a cooking spray and butter at bottom, heat on high and then pour the egg in, stir as usual. Option two for the egg is add some corn bread mix to make egg muffins in the oven, bake for 15 mins at 375 possibly. The cornbread mix should add some body to eggs, make them more like a quiche bite. Again will post later.

    I hope all have a really good day and in pockets for everyone.

  • mara51506
    mara51506 Posts: 7,370
    edited March 15

    Update, learned some new stuff today. Paper towel is not enough to absorb grease. Even on low, lots of smoke no range hood here and window in kitchen is locked down and no ability to lock. Realize that easiest way to heat up a burger without smoke is air fryer, I did heat with baking soda to absorb grease, then rinse out in the strainer. I had to deal with the grease AND my fire alarm going off even with. I pulled out my step ladder and push the button.

    I do not mind using the baking soda and rinsing out because it takes care of everything including grease. I use hot water to rinse and let it strain. I will be using the beef in different meals so seasoning is up to me. Great lessons for me. Air fryer is enclosed so smoke alarm should be a problem going forward. I did not make anything with the beef, just have it refrigerated. Will have it done up with cheese, queso, taco seasoning and whatever else I want to have. Lentils will be included. I fell asleep today twice but I do not mind and just wound up snacking on stuff.