Susan is in the middle of treatment for breast cancer and having some bummer medical stuff going on. She's been pretty frustrated lately, but is a freaking amazing person. She's on my Twitter and is still such a bright spirit.
Just a quick assignment: Please go over and say hi and give S some encouraging words. I remember how much your comments meant to me when I was stressed or sad. (heck, your comments still mean so much to me and make me smile!)
Also, my sweet buddy Jeanne had one of her dogs die from pneumonia after eating a ROCK of all things. We met her when we were in Seattle and she had 2 gorgeous dogs. It just made me and Zoe so so sad when we heard the news. I don't care who you are, but losing a pet is just the same as losing a member of your family. Especially when you've had that pet for so long.
So, please also go give Jeanne some internets love. She's the coolest!
Feeling better today after some serious sleep.
Love you internets! And hello to any of my Twitter friends that stop by.
* you know you're tired when you question yourself ... is funnier a word? And you go over it again and again in your head. More fun. Fun. Funnier. Funniest. Oh yeah, America's Funniest Home Videos. Funnier. F-U-N-N-I-E-R. Yes, that's it. Then you look it up for good measure because for some reason you are too tired to trust spellcheck.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KE2orthS3TQ made me wonder if this is your style. It came across on a VSL (Very Small List) email today touting her as an Amy Winehouse without the issues... lol.
Totally in love with Amanda's niece Ruby Elizabeth. Isn't this just the most precious picture of all time?? Sweetness personified. How could you not have baby fever looking at this photo? If only I were 20 years younger and much much healthier, I'd birth my own baseball team.
What a gorgeous song. CS is now on my must see concert list.
Must see (or see again) before I croak.
Never seen before
Lenny Kravitz (never seen, but he's my all time fav)
Jack Johnson
Sufjan Stevens
Allison Sattinger
Allison Krauss - hopefully with Robert Plant
Willie Nelson - sadly have never ever seen him and he's just awesome
Wilco
Collective Soul
Elvis Costello
Elton John
Raul Malo (great singer - incredible voice)
U2
Aqualung
Beck
Ben Harper
Aretha Franklin
Busta Rhymes
Sade
Rufus Wainwright
Sting
Moby
Peter Gabriel
Have already seen
Tina Turner (saw her years ago at Sea World in San Antonio. It was Africa hot and she was amazing. We were like f*ck Shamu, let's go in the restaurant while we wait for her to start)
Lyle Lovett (saw him a few times in Austin - he just jams out with his Large Band)
Jimmie Vaughn - used to see him a lot in Austin
Rolling Stones (if they are still alive)
Neville Brothers
Paul McCartney
Bo Deans
Jimmie Dale Gilmore
Jesse Dayton
Santana (my ex-husband knows the guy who used to be the lead singer - we got great tickets to this)
ok. I'm sure there are tons more.
I can do this. But I'm sleepy.
Your assignment for today is to tell me who is on your must see list.
Sir Elton! Totally! I'm trying to get my husband to take me to Vegas to see him for my birthday! Although, perhaps, Vegas in July is more than enough reason to say that I'm insane at the ripe old age of 43 eh?
Happy Mother's Day to all my mom friends and to the dad's that act as moms.
Zoe's present to me. Hope you can read phonics too.
1. Why did God make mothers?
"So they can have ther babbys"
2. How did God make mothers?
"He made mothers so they can care for they babbies"
3. What ingredients are mothers made of?
"They are made of Gods and Jesus life."
4. Why did God give you YOUR mother and not some other mom?
"To love us. To care about us more than any other mom."
5. What kind of little girl was your mom?
"She was a brave littel girl."
6. Who's the boss at your house?
"My Grandma is the boss at my hous and my Mom."
7. What's the difference between moms and dads? (AND OMG I CAN'T BELIEVE SHE WROTE THIS!!!)
"Moms don't have wenner and Dad work"
For those of you who don't get it - she said WEINER. OMG!! And golly. I worked for over 20 years.
8. What does your mom do in her spare time? (love this)
"She writes on the cuputer all day log and get Starbucks and gets Ice veteta lata (iced venti latte)
Notice how she spelled Starbucks exactly correct! That's my kid for shizzle.
9. What would it take to make your mom perfect?
"She would have more munay to buy thighs (things) for me and grou hirer (grow hair)"
10. If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
"I would cages (change) not for her to go to the docter and the hostpel (hospital)"
Ok. Off to shop for stuff for grilled chicken bowtie salad stuff. Love to you internets and thanks debu_sweetie for the sweetest email of all time this morning!!
Love it!!! Now I have to blog Ty's "My Mom Is Special" page!!
Posted by shayna at May 11, 2008 04:42 PM
Happy Mother's Day!
Posted by sis #2 at May 11, 2008 07:53 PM
Priceless--and I am glad she told us all the difference between Mom's and Dad's.
Did the Ken doll ever get a wiener?
Posted by claire at May 11, 2008 08:07 PM
Kids are too funny, especially when they aren't necessarily trying to be. Happy Mother's Day, Deb, you deserve one heckuva good one!
Posted by Bren/Cody'sMom at May 11, 2008 11:01 PM
A local boutique displays similar Q&A's from a local elementary in its windows on Mother's Day. One boy said he wanted to give his mom a "dimond hous." Now THAT's a good son to have LOL! Hope your day was full of health and joy!
I knew this in my heart, but I'm glad the docs confirmed what I told you last night. You HAD to be a-okay...there was NOTHING gonna keep you from coming up here this summer!
I'm so relieved not only that everything checks out okay but that you are home safe after your lovely drive. Thank goodness for the Sonic Drive-In at Sealy having happy hour on cranberry slushies to get you through the drive, huh?
Get your hip healed up (and that mouth thing, fer cryin' out loud) so we can enjoy plenty of coffee and chuckles this summer, k?
Love you!
Tim
Posted by The debu_sweetie at May 9, 2008 08:57 PM
I've been reading your blog forever, but rarely comment because I am sometimes clueless as to what to say (I have Aspergers), but I want to knw how happy I am for you! My family prays for you constantly.
WOOT WOOT!! YAY Deb- I am so happy for you, for two reasons.
One- the awesome biopsy results...and-
Two- the Debu_Sweetie!!
You deserve all of the good things that are happening to you right now!
Deb
Posted by Illinois Deb at May 10, 2008 05:23 PM
Great news! I am glad to hear it. Now you will have a wonderful mother's day too.
Posted by Carol at May 10, 2008 08:59 PM
Happy Mother's Day!
Posted by claire at May 11, 2008 10:51 AM
Sweeeet.
Posted by Patrick at May 12, 2008 08:20 AM
Woo Hoo!!!!
This is so great. Summer in Seattle ... and my Corvair is coming back home today (well, I have to go and pick it up). It's yours whenever you want to go cruising with your sweetie.
Put this on your list for summer--we can go to the drive in movies in the Corvair!
The biopsy was as good as a biopsy can be. My technician, Terry, is awesome. She's the best and my favorite because she's hella cool too.
But it still hurts. Like a mofo. And I have a hideous bruise on my inner arm from the tape where they took a blood sample. I so look like a crack ho junkie now. (but that's usual, no?)
Dr. Q says I don't have GVH of the mouth. Then what the hell is it? He has no idea. Great. Tapering steroids starting tomorrow.
Labs look good. I got the all clear to go to Seattle for the summer. But of course.
I can do this. I'm very glad this day is over.
Good vibes for the biopsy results. I hate waiting, but still.
So far, so good--yay! I'm sorry you're still hurting. And now comes the hardest part--the waiting. Tom Petty knew what he was talking about. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way!
I know you will soon be posting you are still
in remissions.
Boo-that they don't know what the mouth problem
may be---
hugs for your and Happy Mom's Day (early)
Posted by claire at May 8, 2008 08:16 AM
Clearly I should not be posting this early!
pardon all the typos in my post :(
Posted by claire at May 8, 2008 08:18 AM
Sending good vibes for the biopsy report. I'm glad you get to go to Seattle for the summer; your pictures were beautiful! Happy early Mother's Day!
Cami
Posted by cami at May 8, 2008 11:00 AM
I send continuing prayers that your biopsy is cool, which it WILL BE, and that you get some comfort from the pain.
Dude, you are a rock. I would be swearing, muling and puking and beating peoples about the ears.
Ow.
I'm reposting this (original from Feb 2006) as I get another bone marrow biopsy tomorrow at MD Anderson in Houston. I hate them. It makes me so nauseated just thinking about it. The last one I had done was a mess ah... ROOKIE TECH!!! I was sore for months (usually only sore for a week). I'm dreading dreading dreading this one. I don't know if I could even handle a result that tells me I've relapsed. I am not even going to mention pain. This is the most painful test they give us.
My lovely longtime reader Pam C just passed away. As did a very brave Alabama boy named Zach. I lost track but I think that makes 30. Please pray/send good vibes to both their families. Pam was a sweetheart and used to send Zoe letters and drawings and stuff. She had 4 cats and a spirit that just was so sweet. I am just a little numb over this.
Ok. Must force myself to pack. I always hate this drive!! Love you!
Not only did they do the bone marrow aspiration, they did a bone marrow biopsy as well. I haven't had one of those since late October when I was diagnosed. I forgot how much they hurt. I am glad I didn't know ahead of time that I was getting that done too. I think I would have flipped out a bit more. Last time I was sedated. I barely remember it.
This:
There will be a sharp stinging from the anesthetic injection. As the aspirate is withdrawn, there may be a brief, sharp pain. The biopsy needle may also produce a brief pain, usually more dull. Since the interior of the bone cannot be anesthetized, this test may cause some discomfort. Not all patients experience these symptoms, however
is a complete fabrication.
There is nothing brief, nor dull about that pain. Some discomfort? I don't know one leukemia patient that doesn't experience major pain with this procedure. It's like having someone drill a corkscrew through your ass cheek into your hip bone. That's exactly what it's like.
I was cursing up a storm. In Spanish even. I don't even hablo Espanol.
I cried though. It was like spontaneous and I couldn't stop it from happening. It was so weird. Afterwards my blood pressure went way high. Like 188 over 135. They had taken it earlier and it was 122 over 72. I never have high blood pressure. Never. This test, she so not normal.
I took a Darvon beforehand, but I might as well have swallowed some M&Ms. And since they had me do it early in the morning, I ended up limping around to my other appointments. Chest X-ray, labs, leukemia doc, pharmacy, (got a yum lunch in here), then my endocrin doc, back to pharmacy.
The tech numbed me up so much, I was numbed all the way down to my right toes hours later. I came home and passed out while watching Footloose. I think that's what you are supposed to do when you watch that movie.
I'm still having problems walking, but I hate to take anything for it. Makes you too groggy. Thanks to my 'Bubellah' Monkey Boy for sending me funny text messages all day. Because there was nothing funny about today.
Tomorrow I only have a few appointments, but my schedule is now three pages long. All kinds of tests. I'm glad they are starting to do this, but gosh, it's exhausing. I want me one of those little scooter things. But I know this walking is good for me.
I can do this. I am doing this. With a sore ass, but still.
Today your assignment is to give someone a massage. The world would be a better place if people gave more massages. And if you don't have anyone to give a massage, go get one. You've earned it.
Aw crap! I hope you get a hella-good tech this time and you get a whole new 'other end of the spectrum' experience with few, if any, memorable qualities! Especially that 'R' word. Be GONE, bastard little beast! I say, "BE GONE!"
And Aw crap for PamC, too. I knew about Zach, too. And two young kids, Samuel and Elijah, are both fighting against all odds too. And like far too many that have gone before, the world is still losing heros and warriors and beloved ones that should never have had to face this blight...
I'll send you super strength and incredible calm vibes today for your trip along with my demand to the heavens for your easy bma and good results!
Posted by Bren/Cody'sMom at May 6, 2008 10:45 AM
Deb,
Hoping this one is not a pain-literally. I know it will be good news.
So very sad about your friends passing. Hopefully
we shall see in our lifetime the end of all this
cancer crapola.
big hugs to you
Posted by claire at May 7, 2008 07:00 AM
Just checking in. You're in my heart and in my prayers today. Hope all is well.
May 5th - 19th Thank Yer Mom by Saving a Life. And Pie.
I had leukemia and needed a stem cell transplant. My awesome brother was my donor. And I am one of the lucky 30% of patients who have a related match from someone in their family (Good Catholic family with six siblings - whew!).
I'm now still alive two years later solely because of my transplant. As of today, literally, I have now lost 30 friends in those 2 years to leukemia or transplant-related complications. I promised my "freakishly strong" friend Brenda Donato that I would never ever ever give up trying to find a cure. That I would never let anyone forget her or what she went through. I made my daughter promise to continue that mission as well. teamzoe.net (she's pretty gung-ho this year & wants to raise $30k)
The National Bone Marrow Program is here to help the many patients who do not have a match. Please consider joining the registry. The procedures for donating are not as hideous or painful as shows like Grey's Anatomy and House show them to be (um, can you say sedation? Painkillers? Apheresis?). My brother did his apheresis and drove from Houston to Austin the same day as his donation. I gave him a lemon meringue pie (per his request) for saving my life. I could never repay his gift to me; except by living a very long, stubborn, happy life. And by trying to spread the word to help others.
I'll be writing more posts on the drive. Seriously. If you are not registered, you can register at a donor drive for free AND ONLINE during the Thanks Mom Donor Drive. Just a cheek swab kit mailed to you - kinda like those cool CSI DNA tests.
It sounds scary, but imagine if one of your loved ones (or you) were going to die because they don't have a match. What if you knew that there is someone out there that could save their life? That the donor probably has no clue about the program or that a simple donation of some stem cells (no, not embryos - don't go there) could be their only hope for a cure. Save a life. It's the right thing to do. And you might get pie. Or Pi. Or both (for Kiera)
When you become a bone marrow donor, you join the global movement of more than 10 million donors who stand ready to give someone a future.
That "someone" was once me. I'm so grateful to still be here to talk about it.
And if you end up donating, I promise I will send you a pie!!
Mother's Day and Thanks Mom Campaign
May 5 to May 19, 2008
During the two weeks around Mother’s Day, be part of our Thanks Mom awareness and donor recruitment campaign. What better way to say “Thanks, Mom” for giving you life than to share that gift with another person!
During the Thanks Mom campaign, costs to join the Registry are covered by our generous partners and contributors for the first 46,000 who join the Registry. (This includes the first 10,000 who join online.)
Help patients who need a life-saving marrow transplant:
You can provide hope to the thousands of patients who need a life-saving marrow transplant.
You are needed
* On any given day, the doctors of more than 6,000 children and adults are searching the NMDP Registry for a life-saving donor.
* Seven years ago Alexandra needed someone—and a donor was there for her. Today, 13 year-old Alex practices karate with her brother Matt, is a voracious reader and loves playing with Rosie & Princess—the beloved four-legged friends in their family.
* Like 70% of patients, Alex and her brother Matt, who has the same disease, did not find someone in their family who matched. Two compassionate people, perhaps someone like you, gave them a chance to grow up, to play…to just be kids.
* Diverse donors are critical. Patients have the best chance of finding a match within their own race.
As Alex and Matt's mom said, “It is a beautiful world when we all work together to make a difference. I will never be able to thank the kids' donors or all of you enough for giving me my children and these priceless lessons. I am just a mother who tried to save a life. Twice.”
Every person deserves the best chance for treatment
The NMDP is dedicated to providing hope and delivering a cure to people who need a life-saving marrow transplant.
You can make a difference.
* Join the Registry. During the two week campaign, our goal is to add 10,000 donors online and 36,000 donors at marrow drives.
* Tell your friends and family by sending an e-mail (upper right corner).
* Give a gift. Raising $100,000 can only be accomplished with your generosity.
* Grow the garden. Add your photo and encouraging message to this virtual Donor Garden, a community passionate about saving lives.
Every donor added and every dollar raised helps save lives.
You are awesome for spreading the word. You truly are living your life by spreading the word :)
Posted by claire at May 4, 2008 11:23 PM
Hi Deb,
I've never posted before, but just had to share- especially when I read this post. Perfect timing!
I received a call from our local blood bank last Friday and it looks like I could be a match for bone marrow donation. I go in on Wednesday for more testing. Keep your fingers crossed! I really hope I get to do this.
Take care!
Yvonne
Posted by Yvonne at May 5, 2008 10:55 AM
I added the widget to my TNT site... And I blogged over on my Relentless for a Cure site as well. Let's get everybody on the Registry!
I am already on the Registry but I made an announcement in class today, wrote the url on the board and answered everyone's questions. I think at least one person will probably do it, so yay!
I put a notice on Cody's Caringbridge page to send people to register. It's so easy to do and can offer such a great gift. THanks for the reminder here!
By the way, I know I'm a din-O-saur, but what's a 'Trackback'? :D
Posted by Bren/Cody'sMom at May 5, 2008 07:53 PM
hey! i just wanted to thank you again for the following thing on twitter. it was one of those weird timing things i guess, but i hope there were at least a few people who found out about the NMDP. have a great rest of your day, week, years...well you get the idea :)
-Would you kill your neighbor?
I don't know them well enough to want to kill them. Or anyone else for that matter. There are a few people I'd like to be a little bit injured in a car/pedestrian accident though.
-What were you doing ten minutes ago?
Helping mom unpack groceries. Twittering. Missing my sweetie.
-What did your last text message say?
"Baby, I know how you feel. I am just incomplete without you..."
-Who have you talked to most today?
Tim
Do you carve pumpkins every year?
Someone does. The slime grosses Zoe out.
What are you wearing?
Shorts, 3/4 sleeve shirt, loafers, headband. Soccer later tonight and I'm DREADING the heat. It's sooo sunny.
-Who's on speed dial 2?
The debu_dude
-Whats your favorite season?
Winter
~How are you feeling right now?
Sleepy and too full from a sammich.
~What did you do this past weekend?
Had the best weekend ever in Seattle with Zoe, Tim and his two girls.
-How many times have you moved?
Ten times. It's getting kind of old.
~What is the last thing you touched?
My water bottle.
~Would you do anything for someone else?
Of course. Within reason.
Have you ever been called a punk?
Lots of other things, but punk, no.
Was yesterday better than today?
About the same
~What is your ring tone?
The Pink Panther song and some Lenny Kravitz of course.
~Do you have a favorite number?
27 I guess.
~Do you hate anyone/anything?
Racism. Intolerance. Cancer. Child abusers. More things than any person.
~Does your best friend have a myspace?
Yeppers
~Last time you went out to lunch?
Got a sammich today.
~Do you have any music you're ashamed of?
I dig some Brittney Spears and now I really like some Miley Cyrus.
~Have you ever been in a physical fight with the opposite sex?
Not on purpose. Was the end of my marriage. Hit me once and it will be the last time.
~How old will you be in 2 months?
I will be turning 41. But I still act like I'm 21 sometimes.
~Do you think you'll be married by then?
Be married. No. Feel married. Yes :P
~Do you have one or more Britney Spears CDs?
Nope
~What did you do last month?
Barf a few times?
~Do you have plans tonight?
Soccer practice. Hide from the sun!!
Whats your favorite movie?
Way too many to list, but Sophie's Choice is way up there. So is Bull Durham, Jerry Maguire, Moonstruck and Princess Bride. Kung Fu Hustle is awesome.
~Do people ever spell your name wrong?
Yup. Even my dad sometimes. It's Debby with a "y" and even though it's really Deborah, if you call me that, I generally wouldn't answer. It's so foreign to me.
~Can you sing?
Not well. And only to Zoe.
~Are you ever a freak about cleanliness or organization?
Quite often. I wanted to start an organization company because I'm terribly good at it, but I generally don't have the energy to finish. I'm so good it's scary. And I really enjoy it when I'm not too tired. Cleanliness, well it's a given as I have to keep things super clean for health reasons.
~Have you ever been to South America or Africa?
Neither
~Do you know how to knit?
Nope.
~What are you doing right now besides this survey?
Watching some weird history thing with mom, who is asleep.
~Do you know how to play poker?
Not well. I always forget what is higher than the other.
~Baskin Robbins or Coldstone?
Coldstone! Not often
~Physics or chemistry?
Chemistry! But only the physical kind because I'm terrible at science.
~Do you wear any jewelry?
I rotate out a few pieces. Depends on what I am wearing. I usually wear my medi-alert bracelet.
~What color are your bedroom walls?
I think they are yellow?
~When do you prefer to take a shower, morning or night?
In Texas - damnit - both. It's so hot and nasty here.
~Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or Star Wars?
Probably Star Wars. I do have a big crush on Viggo though since I saw him in Eastern Promises.
~Fly or road trip?
Depends on where I"m going.
~Batman, Spiderman, Superman, Tanner Vineyard, or Shalayna Hatcher?
Don't even know what the last 2 are, but I loved Christian Bales in Batman. Want to see the next one.
~What’s your favorite Disney movie?
Was The Man From Snowy River Disney? Stuff like Escape From Witch Mountain. I don't dig the new ones so much.
~What are you excited about?
Spending the summer in Seattle. Having a boyfriend who isn't a total dick to me. He's beyond sweet.
Very happy that you would NOT kill your neighbor.
I do not think you would be blogging in prison :)
Great news about your summer month in Seattle!
Posted by claire at May 1, 2008 08:19 PM
Sister, you are such a liar. You would too totally kill your neighbor. Remember that time... oops I think I've said too much.
*Note: my sister has never killed her neighbor and she did not threaten to kill me too if I didn't say she didn't kill her neighbor. No killing, not even that other guy who lived next door to her neighbor or his yappy dog.
www.clutterdiet.com - it's based in S.A., TX and the ladies who are the clutterdiet team are awesome online help for people like me who love organization (and cleanliness) but are in way over my head.
Ditto on Claire's comment. And on the things you hate.
Posted by Bren/Cody'sMom at May 2, 2008 01:22 AM
Oh heck... now I'm repeating myself. Feel free to ignore, delete or skip one of those.. :|
Zoe in the snow, soaked, but having a total blast with Tim and his two girls (they are adorable!!). That was such an amazing day. She LOVES the snow. Next time, however, waterproof clothes and boots are in order! Love the mountains. I can't wait to go back to visit (most likely early June through end of July)
These are from my cell phone. The scenery was so gorgeous that I wanted to just look instead of trying to take amateur photos. The first few were on the ferry to Bainbridge Island. It was a really chilly day and Zoe was uber hyper, but I still had a great time even though she was buggin.
Here are some real pictures of our view. These are such realistic shots of how beautiful it is there.
Ok. Unpacking and doing laundry. Very exciting day. I really miss Seattle and my sweetie. I love wearing sweatshirts, hoodies and sweaters. I'm in flip flops and shorts today. It's going to be in the mid-80's. I HATE this weather. It makes me itchy.
I can do this. I'm going to Seattle in about a month.
Your assignment today is to say hi. Not creative, but just wondering who is out there sometimes.
We were in Portland when my first was just 6 weeks old and I remember how pretty it was there. We drove over to Seattle for a day and I just loved all the bridges. So, you get to go to Seattle and then you get to come hang with us on the river. Can't wait! So very glad to see that you're happy! Hugs to you and Z.
Posted by Denise at May 1, 2008 02:32 PM
Hi!
I've been to the Seattle area several times and it's sooo gorgeous there.
Fab pictures and I am so happy for you. You deserve the very best!
Posted by claire at May 1, 2008 08:16 PM
It sounds like you had a mahvelous time, dahling! I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Posted by Bren/Cody'sMom at May 2, 2008 01:05 AM
Howdy. Great pictures and I'm sure you'll be happy for being able to escape the Tx heat a little this summer.
Posted by Patrick at May 2, 2008 08:21 AM
Debs--such great photos! I love the ones of the ferry.
For those of you thinking of moving to Seattle (except for Debby)--this isn't what it's really like, it rains 200-plus days a year and is dark and dreary. The Lesser Seattle movement has been working for years to keep newcomers away, in case you were wondering where that came from ...
Debs--such great photos! I love the ones of the ferry.
For those of you thinking of moving to Seattle (except for Debby)--this isn't what it's really like, it rains 200-plus days a year and is dark and dreary. The Lesser Seattle movement has been working for years to keep newcomers away, in case you were wondering where that came from ...
I'm going to pimp Diana's link for her Team in Training efforts. I'm always amazed when people who have/are going through treatment are up for training for an event and actually completing one.
Dear Debby:
Well, amazing as it seems, it's been almost a whole year since I did the Mayor's Marathon in Anchorage AK to raise funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Thankfully, I'm still in remission. I'm coming up on the 2 year anniversary of my cancer diagnosis. Hopefully, if I continue to stay in remission, I'll finally be able to have my port removed by the end of this year.
I've been keeping up with the physical training routine and in a few days I will be participating in the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training program. I was hoping to be
able to complete a full 26.2 mile marathon but my old body has told me to think again, so I'll be doing the half marathon this year. I'm determined to be physically strong enough to do a full marathon some day, but right now I'm just grateful to be upright & moving :-)
If you are in a position where you able to once again contribute to the very worthwhile mission of fighting blood cancers with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, please click on the link to my website. I've started my fundraising
a little late this year, but I'm hoping to still reach my goal of raising $2,000 before the end of May. (she has only about $365 so far - let's help a chica out, debu_peeps)
I hope that this e-mail finds you & your loved ones in good health & that you are enjoying this Spring season.
Thinking of you & wishing you all the best...
Diana
"In 2006, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. After some hardcore chemo, I kicked cancer's butt to kingdom come. In June 2007, I celebrated by participating in my first Team in Training event, a half-marathon, on the exact 1-year-to-date anniversary of my cancer diagnosis. How sweet it was to be able to cross the finish line under my own steam and in remission!"
I can do this. Because of people like Diana! Go D, go!
Your assignment is to donate $5 - $10 to Diana. I know I'm always asking for money, but having a survivor raise money for a pretty grueling event is really special. It inspires me and so many others to see that cancer does not own us!!
Love you. And especially you. Working on my Seattle posts, but I'm still gushy and loving that city and my Seattle folks.
It's early and I'm not caffeinated enough, but wanted to check in a llittle bit.
This has been such a great trip. We went to see Jeanne from Assertive Patient Saturday night for pizza and some time feeding baby kittens. Zoe named her kitten Zoe. She and Tim's daughter K were expert kitty feeders. They are so tiny and cute and when they drink from these little teeny bottles, there bellies swell right up. I hadn't ever seen kittens that small before and Zoe worked the please-can-we-bring-home-a-kitty face.
Jeanne is totally cool. We had pizza and salad and just hung out and talked. I totally dig her style as she's really eclectic and has amazing taste. Her house was so gorgeous and was the kind of place that was both beautiful and comfortable and filled with love. We had such a fun time. Zoe was ready to go back the next day and I really hope to be able to spend time with Jeanne this summer.
Yesterday we visited the Snoqualmie Falls. It was perfect weather for sightseeing and I was completely blown away at how beautiful it was there. It is a very romantic setting and there was an outside wedding going on at the resort overlooking the falls. i watched a little because the guests were so gorgeously dressed up, although I didn't see the bride. I couldn't think of a more romantic setting for a wedding. But that's probably because I'm in love with Seattle. And no, I didn't take this picture. I took a few, but they could never be as lovely as this.
Then we went off to see some SNOW! I haven't seen real snow in over ten years and Zoe has NEVER seen it before. We drove up about another 30 minutes to (I'll have to ask Tim later obout the name of the pass we went to) and the kids donned some warm gear and went and climbed these huge snowbanks. I am sure they were freezing as we didn't have any waterproof clothing or shoes, but at least there were fire pits that they warmed up at later. Zoe had such a great time there and said it was her favorite thing so far that she's done here. I can totally see her becoming a skier if the occasion should arise. She is a natural snow bunny.
We've seen so many places here. It's just gorgeous and amazing. I can't wait to come back again to keep exploring. The weather totally suits me too!! We're having a blast.
Ok. Off to find some caffeine and food.
I can do this. I listened to hours of Hanna Montana yesterday. (While Zoe and K sang duets to us)
Your assignment today is to tell me your favorite vacation experiences to date.
I live approximately 3.2 minutes from Snoqualmie Falls and you didn't visit me???? LOL The pass you went over was...Snoqualmie Pass. I live in the little community at the top of the hill (you would have passed by it on your way down to the falls). I'm glad you came this weekend, the weather was fantabulous.
Posted by Lola at April 28, 2008 06:17 PM
How beautiful! I'm so glad you had such a good time.
My favorite vacation was about five or six years ago when we shared a beach house with one of my BFF and her kids. We sat around and did NOTHING, ate her awesome New Orleans cooking and drank a lot while the kids ran around.
Fun.
Posted by sis #2 at April 29, 2008 08:24 AM
There have been 2 vacations that really stand out. A few years ago, the wife and I went to Italy for her 40th birthday and we spent a week in a little farmhouse a few miles outside of Assisi. It had a kitchen, a washing machine and a lovely view of a mountain valley complete with the sounds of pigs, cows and chickens. It was a great place to just chill out.
The other one involve the Pacific Northwest. The wife and I flew into Portland, OR and spent a few days tasting wine in the Willamette valley before meandering over to the coast. We then spent the next 4 or 5 days driving down the coast, poking around lighthouses, state parks, beaches and forests before ending up in Northern California to sample some more wine and meet some friends.
Both were very unstructured and chilled out...I like that.
Glad your trip is going well. Seattle's a great town.
Posted by Patrick at April 29, 2008 08:35 AM
I think the week we spent in Napa Valley and the towns around that area. Of course all the wine we drank may have played into my love of the places.
Posted by claire at April 29, 2008 11:35 AM
Sorry I'm late on my assignment... BUT! I think the vacation that stands out right now is my trip to Napa, which was just a couple of weeks ago... Just wine, relaxation, and girl-time. I came home from just 3 days away ready to take on the world...
(Oh, and I hope you got your caffeine... I am useless without mine!)
Quick am entry before the chirrens get up and going (Z and Tim's two girls).
Seattle is soooo beautiful. There's something about the weather and the beauty of the city that makes you feel alive. I can totally understand why Starbucks started here because there is so much to do that you just don't want to go to sleep. And yes, I saw Mecca aka Starbucks headquarters; however, there are so even more *gasp* awesome coffee places here. I had the best iced latte from this little drive thru shack. It was HUGE too. Like a hot tub of latte.
I haven't really taken many, actually any, pictures here because I'm loving just experiencing the city and there aren't any pictures that I could take that would do this place any justice. I stopped at this little travel shop in Bainbridge (after taking a gorgeous ferry ride) and bought a this beauitful picture travel book.
Zoe is completely in her element. Tim has this giant projector tv that projects onto the wall about 110 inches. He also has the cool toys which includes a wii and a sirius radio surround sound. Zoe loves wii. She and Tim's oldest are now playing boxing and it is crazy funny.
Ok. How could you not adore a guy who runs out to get you a special iced coffee?
I can do this. I'm very much at home.
Your assignment for today is to get outside and enjoy. I know I plan on it.
I went to a sales conference in Seattle in 1990- you know, back in the dark ages before Starbucks was everywhere. I was totally smitten with the city- so beautiful. I laughed out loud at whole salmons being tossed at Pike's Place Market, went up in the space needle- all the typical tourist stuff. At the big dinner for everyone they had these coffee stations set up, and while walking by I was asked "Would you like a latte?". WTF is a latte, is what I was thinking! I tried one, and was even more in love with the city! Seattle makes these wonderful coffee drinks? I didn't want to leave!
Oh- and I bought eighteen (yes 18) pairs of shoes at the original Nordstrom....
Oh, I do indeed love Seattle!
I am thrilled for you, Deb! You deserve this.
Much love to you and the lovely bird-talker-
Deb
Posted by Illinois Deb at April 26, 2008 03:58 PM
Sounds like things are finally clicking in the 'ol love department. I am beyond happy for you!!!!!!!
We are headed to Seattle after school today. I've never flown with Zoe, but she's been on a plane a few times with her father, so I am sure she will do well. Especially since she's got some gadgets - Nintendo DS and books and stuff.
Tim is just so cool. I cannot wait to see him again. We have some great things planned for this week. I really am beyond excited to go because it's a part of the country I have never visited before and, well, *whispers* Tim is there.
The only downfall is that I have to wear a mask the entire time in the airport and on the plane. I think that's about seven hours total. It makes me feel like a freakshow, but if it keeps those oogie germs off me, then who cares? Zoe is going to look perfectly adorable. She wanted to wear this cute funky patterned dress with her leather jacket and these little wedgie heels. She has a matching purse/wallet, and wants to wear her sunglasses. Um. Hilarious!
Ok. Much to do. I'd like to go somewhere without wearing a ball cap for a change. This entire week I've been hoping What Not to Wear wasn't videotaping me, because I've been looking just too ridiculous.
I can do this. I'm going somewhere it isn't Africa hot (it was 90 here yesterday - APRIL - AHHHHH!!!)
Your assignment today is to say bon voyage! Love you internets!!!!
Woohoo! Have a great trip! You'll be in my corner of the world! How cool is that! It's chilly and rainy here although we might have a nice day this weekend!
Seattle is a really beautiful place. I hope you guys have a great time!
cami
Posted by cami at April 23, 2008 09:12 AM
Woot! Have a most excellent time. Sorry about having to wear the mask--maybe you should draw a mustache on it or something so you can laugh when you see people's expressions.
Bon voyage, my friend... Safest of journeys... Can't wait to hear all about it! (Well, maybe not *all* about it... Unless, of course, that's how you roll....)
*BIG HUGS*
Posted by shayna at April 23, 2008 01:07 PM
Safe travels, take lots of pictures, and have FUN.
Posted by claire at April 23, 2008 06:25 PM
Safe travels, fun times and try not to OD on the Starbucks.
Posted by Patrick at April 24, 2008 08:45 AM
Have a fab-uma-lous time!! Maybe you can take the ferry to one of the islands and enjoy another part of the great northwest. Also, the convergence of land and sea is breathtaking. I don't remember the name of the pass I drove over but I recall mountainous rock jutting up out of the water and it seemed to be a perfect exhibit of power and rugged beauty. I also enjoyed Irish food at Kells near the pier and the hot chocolate in the Westin was YUMMY, if you need an occasional change from Six Bucks. Enjoy the outing and the company and don't let the mask part become anything more than a microscopic blip for your trip.
Posted by Bren/Cody'sMom at April 24, 2008 10:08 AM
Jim and I have made our decision......we just talked to Dr. Kapoor and really the machine is doing all the work for Laiken. She is starting to have some irregular heart rythyms and I really think it's just her time to spend eternity with our Lord Jesus Christ. Her oxygen levels still keep going down and now she is in the mid 30's at the highest and we have even seen some high 20's. A pastor from our church is on his way as of right now.
Jim and I have made the decision to stop some of Laiken's meds and just let her go peacefully. We will have them give her lots of pain meds and then stop the Dopamine. They will take the tube out of her mouth and let us have some time with her until her little spirit goes to heaven.
I can't believe that we have come to this point in our lives where we have to make a decision like this. Laiken has faught for so very long and so very hard that it hurts to see her go like this. I never thought that this would be the way that we would have to see her go. I do know that when the time comes that Laiken has more than earned her wings in heaven. She has taught so many of us so much in her only 13 young years of life here on earth. I had hoped for so much more for her here on earth and now I have to let her go. She has blessed so many of us in so many different ways and again I will say "I am so proud to be able to be the one who she called Mama", I just hope I was a good enough Mama for her. She loved life to the fullest and I know she will light up the heavens above with her beautiful smile. This will be our loss here on earth from such a perfect child.
Please keep us all in prayers.
With much love and my deepest sorrow, Stacey"
God bless you and your family, honey. Fly free. We will keep fighting for you. I showed Zoe your website and talked to her about our responsibility to keep fighting for a cure until no one else gets cancer. That even when I'm gone, she must continue and her children must continue to help. I am so saddened for Laiken and her family, but I am determined. I get discouraged fundraising sometimes because I'm always always asking, but I will never give up.
Because I know exactly that feeling of leukemia striking at any time. It doesn't discriminate. I have seen all ages, all races, all financial backgrounds ~ all stuck in the waiting rooms in hospitals all over the world. Some living and some dying. It's horrible, as all cancer is. It's horrible on you, but moreover, it's excruciating for your loved ones.
Update:
"Dear Family and Friends,
Our precious Laiken has gone to be with our Lord at 4:36pm today. She is celebrating with the Lord and all of our loved ones who have gone ahead of us. Please keep all our us in your prayers.
With our deepest sympathy, Jim & Stacey"
I can do this. I owe them all. Just too many loved ones to list. It's hurting my heart.
Your assignment today is to send prayers (good thoughts if you don't pray) to Laiken and her family and loved ones. Thanks
Thank you for posting... I feel guilty because everybody seems to be concerned about me... But I'm not Laiken's mama. I was just the one that she, apparently, chose to get the word out just a little bit more....
Fucking leukemia. Let's cure this thing...
Now, you go hug and kiss Zoe, and I'll go hug and kiss Ty.
Love you.
Posted by shayna at April 22, 2008 09:48 PM
It really makes me angry that such wonderful people are stolen by this horrible wasteful disease.
