I've been bedfast for the last two days. This chemotherapy is the closest to hell I ever want to get.
I hurt all over, and my mouth and throat is so sore that I can't eat. I think all this sleepiness is some sort of migraine, but I'm not sure.
My chemo doctor is worried about my counts. My cholesterol is over 600, my triglycerides are 2000, my blood sugar is over 300, and I feel like it.
Steve said he can't figure how these counts are so high by my diet, and I told him it's probably my major organs failing.
I smell and taste chemo all the time, and it's the most nauseating taste, like burning plastic.
On the good side of things, Joy Cox came last week and played for me. It was pure heaven. She's really accomplished, and she knows all the older hymns that I love so much. I pulled a 'fast one' on her by giving her the hymnal used by the '2X2's', but she played them like they were familiar to her. She commented that they probably sang them slower than she was playing them, and I told her she was correct. She sure livened them up a bit.
I want her to come again and tape her music on my recording devices. I have a recorder that tapes 18 tracks, so we can blend her verses together for quite a nice sound. She's a cheerful person, with a LOT of spiritual nature to her. I've known her sinse childhood, and I regret that we have not always been closer friends. She's quite close to Judy, my favorite niece, and has helped her along in life a lot.
Cecil and Mary, my sisters, came today for a visit, but I had to lay on the sofa so that I wouldn't throw up. If I remain upright, I'll throw up whatever is on my stomach.
I was glad they came, though. Cecil gave me a tiny Murano glass angel that she had bought at a yard sale on the way here. She told me it could be another angel looking after me.
I gave Cecil one of my newspaper articles about me being the Hat Lady. I framed one to put over my desk.
They are down to just three of my hats left at the chemo clinic, so I need to make up some more to take them. I've taken the rear seat of my Cadillas full to each clinic already, but they are popular, and go fast.
I bought a huge box of silk flowers from the Goodwill, and I've been sorting them out and making a terrible mess with them on the dining room floor. I told my sisters that they'd just have to look at them. They said they didn't mind a bit, knowing what I did with them.
I haven't got much done this week. Steve suggested that we not even try to work on the chemo weeks, because things sometimes get going in the wrong direction if I'm not there all the time.
I was hoping that Lynn and I could put the finish on the floors this week, but she didn't come, so I rested and tried to get over being so sick. I'm getting tired of the bed, but it feels good to get back in it after being up for a short while.
My feet got cold earlier today, and they hurt terribly now. My legs hurt, too, but, then, I hurt all over.
Cancer and chemo is no fun.
I'm so thirsty, but water hurts the inside of my mouth and all the way down my throat.
I'm also tiring again, so I'm going to lay back down.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Tuesday AM VERY EARLY
Today went really well, with a fabulous visit from Joy Cox. She played the piano for me, and it was like heaven. Even Steve, who hates Christian music, loved the glorious sounds.
She promised to continue praying for me. This evening, while Steve and I were working at Creekside, Sandra came over, hugged me, and promised continued prayers.
Lynn didn't get here, which was a major disappointment. I wanted to be with her so badly.
She had a Fibro Flare, and couldn't drive, but she had Jim pack the car, so she will be ready first thing in the am.
Steve is taking an extra day to be with me during the lovely chemo, because I can't get anyone else to drive me home. I so hate being a sick, disgusting burden to everyone. I've only had three treatments, and it's already got old to everyone.
I was in such a slump this evening that I've been crying all evening. Steve wants to know why I'm crying, and I finally told him that I just can't be 'up' all the time for everyone. I usually slip away privately to let go of my pent up emotions, but today I didn't have that chance, and it got to me before bedtime. I took two of Steve's tranquilizers, two of mine, and spent about 45 minutes 'grooming' Steve, which made me a lot more calm. I'm still not ready to go to bed, and we have to be in Morristown at 8:30 AM. It's going to be another fun-filled day of hurry up and wait.
I just WANT to wake up in the morning with a sleeping migraine. That would be about all I would need. Then it would be 'Off and Runnin'.
I feel like purple tomorrow, so I have a lovely pleated dress laid out in purple jacquard, a purple hat with black veil, and purple snake skin heels.
It's too bad I don't still have all that lovely Amythest jewelry to accent my outfit.
I just don't see why they couldn't have left me alone for the short time I have left.I sure wasn't going to take any of that expensive jewelry with me, they don't have it, and the junkies they fenced it to likely don't have a single piece of it left. Nobody really got ahead. It was great wealth frittered away. Some Justice System...RIGHT!
Tomorrow is the chemo from hell, and the pump that's rapidly trying to drag me there. Wake me up when it's over.
Well, at least Steve will still be here to get me through it. He's such a sourse of strength to me.
I wish he'd get one of these lawn mowers going. Our lawns look terrible, both at Clairemont and Creekside, and no one else seems to want to get them cut. I guess I'll just have to.
I guess I need to go lay down for a while, at least, whether I sleep or not.
Barbara, I guess you could say a prayer for me. I feel pretty low. I'll play you a piece on the piano.
She promised to continue praying for me. This evening, while Steve and I were working at Creekside, Sandra came over, hugged me, and promised continued prayers.
Lynn didn't get here, which was a major disappointment. I wanted to be with her so badly.
She had a Fibro Flare, and couldn't drive, but she had Jim pack the car, so she will be ready first thing in the am.
Steve is taking an extra day to be with me during the lovely chemo, because I can't get anyone else to drive me home. I so hate being a sick, disgusting burden to everyone. I've only had three treatments, and it's already got old to everyone.
I was in such a slump this evening that I've been crying all evening. Steve wants to know why I'm crying, and I finally told him that I just can't be 'up' all the time for everyone. I usually slip away privately to let go of my pent up emotions, but today I didn't have that chance, and it got to me before bedtime. I took two of Steve's tranquilizers, two of mine, and spent about 45 minutes 'grooming' Steve, which made me a lot more calm. I'm still not ready to go to bed, and we have to be in Morristown at 8:30 AM. It's going to be another fun-filled day of hurry up and wait.
I just WANT to wake up in the morning with a sleeping migraine. That would be about all I would need. Then it would be 'Off and Runnin'.
I feel like purple tomorrow, so I have a lovely pleated dress laid out in purple jacquard, a purple hat with black veil, and purple snake skin heels.
It's too bad I don't still have all that lovely Amythest jewelry to accent my outfit.
I just don't see why they couldn't have left me alone for the short time I have left.I sure wasn't going to take any of that expensive jewelry with me, they don't have it, and the junkies they fenced it to likely don't have a single piece of it left. Nobody really got ahead. It was great wealth frittered away. Some Justice System...RIGHT!
Tomorrow is the chemo from hell, and the pump that's rapidly trying to drag me there. Wake me up when it's over.
Well, at least Steve will still be here to get me through it. He's such a sourse of strength to me.
I wish he'd get one of these lawn mowers going. Our lawns look terrible, both at Clairemont and Creekside, and no one else seems to want to get them cut. I guess I'll just have to.
I guess I need to go lay down for a while, at least, whether I sleep or not.
Barbara, I guess you could say a prayer for me. I feel pretty low. I'll play you a piece on the piano.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Monday, August 13, 2012 AM
It's a Red Letter Day for me!
Joy Belle Cox is coming to Clairemont to record her music for me!
I've known Joy almost all of my life, and she has a remarkable talent for piano, and I've DREAMED of having some of her music to listen to at any time for many years, and Joy, I, and my favorite niece, Judy, have finally got it all arranged. They're coming today, and I'm in BLISS!
Judy will, of course, have to work the recording studio equipment, as Joy and I are equally akward with electronic equipment, and this system is somewhat complicated. I've had it for about 5 years, but Steve would never operate it so that my music could be recorded and heard by others. Now, I'm coming to the end of my life, I'm weak and tired, and there will be no more of my music after I'm gone.
But, until then, I will have some of Joy's music.
I've painted her one of my famous yard flags with her name on it, and musical notes, to display in her yard or on a porch. I so appreciate her making this concession for me, and I want her to feel the love I have for her doing so.
She's a hat lady, and I've offered to make her a hat (or maybe more than one) for her efforts, though she said that no compensation would be necessary. That's just the kind of person she is. After my raving about her talents to Barbara, she asked me to make her a copy of the CD, as she also loves good, old-time gospel music. She knows how I've longed for Joy's music for so long.
It's also a Red Letter Day because Judy is coming with Joy. She might have to slip off upstairs to a guest room and try to sleep, as her schedule is so hectic. She came by yesterday to catch a short nap before trying the trip home to Clinton. She was so tired, she was afraid she might go to sleep behind the wheel. She's always welcome. I put her in the Vanderbuilt Suite, and she was so glad it can be darkened by having green window shades. She didn't want me to turn down the bed for her, but shen I did, and she felt the silk sheets, she was glad. They are a little bit of heaven, and she wound up sleeping longer than she had planned. I'm glad to give her a little comfort.
We took her to breakfast at Shoney's in Dandridge, and she and I both ate like pigs.
I'll take the ladies to Down Home today for lunch, as my cooking just isn't that great anymore, and I want to give them choice. I'm sure Penny Satterfield will treat us all with the utmost respect and regard.
I've tried to clean a little more on the house, so that Joy will enjoy her visit more, but I'm so weak and tired, I get little done. Steve says he's going to Morristown to rent a floor sander (again) and re-do the floors at Creekside, so I can't count on him for anything.
Lynn is coming this evening, and the grass looks like a jungle. I sure can't push a small lawnmower, and I'd shake my insides out if I tried riding one. I'll just have to apologise to everyone.
It's a shame to let such a nice home look so ragged.
Sweety is in heat again, and Steve is mad at me for not getting her fixed yet. I have so much time to worry about the heat cycles of a house cat, I just KNOW. It looks like he's just ask some of his on-line buds how to do it, and get a razor blade and start chopping away. Or, here's an idea, get in the phone directory, call a vet, and take her himself!
Wow! I just don't know why he hasn't thought of that.
I hardly drive at all anymore, so that's one trip he could save me.
Well, I'll write more later, as I want to get back to work on the house.
Joy Belle Cox is coming to Clairemont to record her music for me!
I've known Joy almost all of my life, and she has a remarkable talent for piano, and I've DREAMED of having some of her music to listen to at any time for many years, and Joy, I, and my favorite niece, Judy, have finally got it all arranged. They're coming today, and I'm in BLISS!
Judy will, of course, have to work the recording studio equipment, as Joy and I are equally akward with electronic equipment, and this system is somewhat complicated. I've had it for about 5 years, but Steve would never operate it so that my music could be recorded and heard by others. Now, I'm coming to the end of my life, I'm weak and tired, and there will be no more of my music after I'm gone.
But, until then, I will have some of Joy's music.
I've painted her one of my famous yard flags with her name on it, and musical notes, to display in her yard or on a porch. I so appreciate her making this concession for me, and I want her to feel the love I have for her doing so.
She's a hat lady, and I've offered to make her a hat (or maybe more than one) for her efforts, though she said that no compensation would be necessary. That's just the kind of person she is. After my raving about her talents to Barbara, she asked me to make her a copy of the CD, as she also loves good, old-time gospel music. She knows how I've longed for Joy's music for so long.
It's also a Red Letter Day because Judy is coming with Joy. She might have to slip off upstairs to a guest room and try to sleep, as her schedule is so hectic. She came by yesterday to catch a short nap before trying the trip home to Clinton. She was so tired, she was afraid she might go to sleep behind the wheel. She's always welcome. I put her in the Vanderbuilt Suite, and she was so glad it can be darkened by having green window shades. She didn't want me to turn down the bed for her, but shen I did, and she felt the silk sheets, she was glad. They are a little bit of heaven, and she wound up sleeping longer than she had planned. I'm glad to give her a little comfort.
We took her to breakfast at Shoney's in Dandridge, and she and I both ate like pigs.
I'll take the ladies to Down Home today for lunch, as my cooking just isn't that great anymore, and I want to give them choice. I'm sure Penny Satterfield will treat us all with the utmost respect and regard.
I've tried to clean a little more on the house, so that Joy will enjoy her visit more, but I'm so weak and tired, I get little done. Steve says he's going to Morristown to rent a floor sander (again) and re-do the floors at Creekside, so I can't count on him for anything.
Lynn is coming this evening, and the grass looks like a jungle. I sure can't push a small lawnmower, and I'd shake my insides out if I tried riding one. I'll just have to apologise to everyone.
It's a shame to let such a nice home look so ragged.
Sweety is in heat again, and Steve is mad at me for not getting her fixed yet. I have so much time to worry about the heat cycles of a house cat, I just KNOW. It looks like he's just ask some of his on-line buds how to do it, and get a razor blade and start chopping away. Or, here's an idea, get in the phone directory, call a vet, and take her himself!
Wow! I just don't know why he hasn't thought of that.
I hardly drive at all anymore, so that's one trip he could save me.
Well, I'll write more later, as I want to get back to work on the house.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Sunday AM
Steve got some sort of manual off the internet last night to set up my c-pap machine (which I've had for several years), and I slept like a baby. I don't think I even turned over all night.
It would have been nice to have it during the last year of all this suffering.
I slept most of the day yesterday. Steve took me to a restaurant in Jefferson City, and I fell asleep at the table several times. I don't know what initiated this narcolepsy, but it's troublesome. I hesitate to drive.
One reason might be my high blood sugar (it is) or it may be the utter exhaustion I have from the chemotherapy. I'm tired all the time.
Steve sanded on the floors while I napped on the cot in his office at Creekside. Even the noise of the sander going didn't disturb me.
I got an eviction notice from the legal center and put it on the door of the trailer where John has been living, but I think they might already be gone. They didn't return a key, and they had changed the locks, so I'm now going to have to get a locksmith to go up there and get me in.
Lynn is coming on Monday! I so look forward to her visit. She's fun, bubbly, sweetly accomodating, and shares many interests with me. Steve has to leave out on Monday, so we will have a girl's week of doing our crafts and going to re-sale shops. She's laways so much fun, and a great boost to me, especially now.
.
sunday AM
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
I saw Chris Mannes in the Rutledge Goodwill yesterday, and she told me she keeps up with my progress (it this progress?) through my blog, so I guess it's time to blog again, for those who just might be interested.
I'm having another bout with the terrible diahrea from hell. I'm eating Imodium, but it's not stopped it yet.
That's just one of the lovely side effects of the delightful chemo threapy.
I still can't touch anything cold, wash my hands in cold water, or drink anything cold.
I so long for iced tea, a popcicle, or a dish of ice cream. Well, not until the chemo round is over.
Only a few more months....I think four, if all goes well.
Janie and Cherokee are mad at each other over some text messages Tina (Janie's daughter) sent to Cherokee, and supposedly, some that Cherokee sent back to Tina.
Tina has wound up in the cardiac unit at Morristown Hospital with heart palpations. I think it probably has more to do with Shawn being in jail, and she's missing the rather obvious sexual activity that they had going. She's also now going to have to pay her own bills, which she can't do, sinse she's quit her job and has no savings. Shawn had been helping her with bills, and now that's gone.
Trauma Drama.
I'm going to the court house in Rutledge today to start a little drama myself. I'm getting an eviction notice against John to get him out of the trailer. He's not paid a cent in rent in over three months, and he just HAS to go. He's been a great sorrow to me. I gave him three days to get out over two weeks ago, and he responded by changing the locks on the trailer and throwing a bunch of garbage into the yard, where animals have now strewn it all over the place. Dirk Daniel will be livid, as will Jesse, his handyman.
Steve has worked like a trooper, and got the three bedrooms and the hallway at the top of the stairs sanded and ready to prep for finish. They look fabulous! It's took a lot of work, but they're worth it. I've been almost no help, as the exhaustion and fatigue of the chemo limit me so. I can't handle the large floor sanders, either. Also, I can't take the dust, and don't need to be exposed to anything that will make me any sicker.
I'm having a lot of trouble staying awake. I almost went to sleep and run out of the road coming home from Morristown yesterday....twice. I don't know if I should be driving so much.
Janie's back from New York, and she's glad to take me anywhere I need to go, but she charges me an hourly rate, and she sometimes does her own running on my time, so it can get costly.
Tom is still working out real well. He's a little slow, but does very nice work, and we're happy with him. He's just got his own pace, but he holds it all day, without loafing time.
He's doing a masterful job on the woodwork upstairs.
I'm about to finish painting a nice big flag which I plan to give to Nancy Acuff. It's got a white pickett fence in it, and she loves pickett fences. She's a nice lady, and she deserves a little recognition.
I'm continueing with my tailoring of my wardrobe, to keep myself in clothes that fit. I got some trims yesterday at Hobby Lobby in Moristown. I talked with Lynn last night about 'blinging' some of my things and offering them for sale when I open Creekside. I still plan to make it a 'Curiosity Shop', and get rid of some of my stuff. Steve will just give it to Goodwill when I'm gone, so it will be nice to get something out of it before that time comes.
I'm working on a nice little surprise for Lynn for her next visit, which is supposed to be Monday. She keeps me excited and we laugh together. She's like therapy for me. She and Jim keep me in the prayers of their congregation, and I'm glad for all the prayers that are sent up on my behalf.
Joy Cox has not yet gave me a date for coming to record me some music, but that has me all 'atwitter'. She's so talented, and I love her style.
I'd like to be able to have Clairemont all fixed up for her visit, but I'm just not able.
I'll just have to get done what I can, and not fret the rest.
Little Stumpy has spent most of the morning on my lap. She loves to sleep on my lap while I'm doing quiet work, and I love having her. She's my little angel.
Steve reported that the peafowl hens are now down to just three eggs. They've probably broken some fighting over them. Just like two women trying to raise children.
Barbara will want to have favorable mention, but she's not favorable. She's still fat and ugly, she smells badly, and her momma dresses her funny.
She'll be calling me in a while, but I hope she can wait a little, as Steve is still in bed.
I'm having another bout with the terrible diahrea from hell. I'm eating Imodium, but it's not stopped it yet.
That's just one of the lovely side effects of the delightful chemo threapy.
I still can't touch anything cold, wash my hands in cold water, or drink anything cold.
I so long for iced tea, a popcicle, or a dish of ice cream. Well, not until the chemo round is over.
Only a few more months....I think four, if all goes well.
Janie and Cherokee are mad at each other over some text messages Tina (Janie's daughter) sent to Cherokee, and supposedly, some that Cherokee sent back to Tina.
Tina has wound up in the cardiac unit at Morristown Hospital with heart palpations. I think it probably has more to do with Shawn being in jail, and she's missing the rather obvious sexual activity that they had going. She's also now going to have to pay her own bills, which she can't do, sinse she's quit her job and has no savings. Shawn had been helping her with bills, and now that's gone.
Trauma Drama.
I'm going to the court house in Rutledge today to start a little drama myself. I'm getting an eviction notice against John to get him out of the trailer. He's not paid a cent in rent in over three months, and he just HAS to go. He's been a great sorrow to me. I gave him three days to get out over two weeks ago, and he responded by changing the locks on the trailer and throwing a bunch of garbage into the yard, where animals have now strewn it all over the place. Dirk Daniel will be livid, as will Jesse, his handyman.
Steve has worked like a trooper, and got the three bedrooms and the hallway at the top of the stairs sanded and ready to prep for finish. They look fabulous! It's took a lot of work, but they're worth it. I've been almost no help, as the exhaustion and fatigue of the chemo limit me so. I can't handle the large floor sanders, either. Also, I can't take the dust, and don't need to be exposed to anything that will make me any sicker.
I'm having a lot of trouble staying awake. I almost went to sleep and run out of the road coming home from Morristown yesterday....twice. I don't know if I should be driving so much.
Janie's back from New York, and she's glad to take me anywhere I need to go, but she charges me an hourly rate, and she sometimes does her own running on my time, so it can get costly.
Tom is still working out real well. He's a little slow, but does very nice work, and we're happy with him. He's just got his own pace, but he holds it all day, without loafing time.
He's doing a masterful job on the woodwork upstairs.
I'm about to finish painting a nice big flag which I plan to give to Nancy Acuff. It's got a white pickett fence in it, and she loves pickett fences. She's a nice lady, and she deserves a little recognition.
I'm continueing with my tailoring of my wardrobe, to keep myself in clothes that fit. I got some trims yesterday at Hobby Lobby in Moristown. I talked with Lynn last night about 'blinging' some of my things and offering them for sale when I open Creekside. I still plan to make it a 'Curiosity Shop', and get rid of some of my stuff. Steve will just give it to Goodwill when I'm gone, so it will be nice to get something out of it before that time comes.
I'm working on a nice little surprise for Lynn for her next visit, which is supposed to be Monday. She keeps me excited and we laugh together. She's like therapy for me. She and Jim keep me in the prayers of their congregation, and I'm glad for all the prayers that are sent up on my behalf.
Joy Cox has not yet gave me a date for coming to record me some music, but that has me all 'atwitter'. She's so talented, and I love her style.
I'd like to be able to have Clairemont all fixed up for her visit, but I'm just not able.
I'll just have to get done what I can, and not fret the rest.
Little Stumpy has spent most of the morning on my lap. She loves to sleep on my lap while I'm doing quiet work, and I love having her. She's my little angel.
Steve reported that the peafowl hens are now down to just three eggs. They've probably broken some fighting over them. Just like two women trying to raise children.
Barbara will want to have favorable mention, but she's not favorable. She's still fat and ugly, she smells badly, and her momma dresses her funny.
She'll be calling me in a while, but I hope she can wait a little, as Steve is still in bed.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Friday, August , 2012 AM
It's thundering outside, so I don't know how the weather is going to play out for today.
Steve and I tried our hand at stripping the floors at Creekside with chemical stripper last night, and it was a lot of work as well as a miserable failure. We have about decided to go with one of those huge belt-type sanders and fine-grit paper. That old, dried-out oak flooring is as hard as a rock, and won't give in to just any attempt at sanding it down.
I was little help, as I stay sleepy from the chemo treatments, and I am weakened from them, as well. I feel so useless and weary all the time. I'm also probably weakened by not eating as much sweet stuff, as Steve is trying so hard to keep my sugar level down. I've always had high sugar count, and being low does not give me the same energy level. But I think it's mostly the poisonous chemo and the bodily stress from the surgeries.
We have two peafowl hens setting on six eggs, and I really hope that they will hatch some babies for me. I'd love to get something (finally) from all the investment I've got in those birds. Their father would be the Jave Green male, and they bring big money at farm sales and auctions.
I brought some of Clarence's laundry home with me last night, and it was so filthy that Steve told me it might as well be thrown away. I used extra detergent, bleach, and warm water, and we'll see this morning if my efforts worked, when I take them out of the washer. Today, I'm going to strip the bed he used when he spends the night, as it looks pretty dirty. I don't think he was well-trained about cleanliness.
Marge Welch says she has some ribbon and a little lace she's sending me for my hat project, as well as for my own efforts towards my wardrobe re-do. I'm having to take up some of my clothing, and I'm 'blinging' it to make me look a little less tragic and sad. I just don't want to look as badly as I feel.
There are some ladies that have contacted me through my Craig'sList listing who have some things they want to give for my hat project.
I take almost any sewing notions, feathers, or beads, and try to make something nice for the chemo ladies and girls who have lost their hair.
Muriel Daniel has made another come-back from the doors of death, it seems. She has been quite ill for many years, and gets very low at times, but has always recovered. One of these times, she won't be coming home in her Lexus. That will be a very sad day, as she has been a good neighbor and friend to all in this area. She is married to Creed Daniel, a local lawyer, and is the mother of 'Cooter' Daniel, a local singer, and Dirk Daniel, who is also a local lawyer. He has done well.
The Tomato Festival did not do so well this year. I think the heat and the fact that there's almost always a bad storm right in the middle of the festivities have made people a little leery of it, and the fact that most of the merchants don't do much business. They've had to get by without me for many years.
I got a nice get-well card from Sister Katherine Judge, one of the nuns in Aunt Kitty's order, The Sisters of Saint Joseph of Rochester. She is a sweet little lady who has visited our home several times, and is always welcome. She assured me of her prayers, and the prayers of the Sisters in her convent.
Stumpy just came to sit in my lap while I'm writing. She always wants to be near me. I love that little bundle of fur and energy so much.
Lynn didn't come this time for my treatment because she has shingles. They're a misery to her.
I surely don't need to be exposed to them, as I have so little immunity at this time while on chemo.
Janie will be back on Sunday evening, and I'll be so glad to see her again. I hope she's not too tired from all her 'vacation'.
I've been trying to contact Cherokee, but she won't answer her phone. She screens her calls, and I guess she just don't want to talk to me.
I haven't talked to Barbara much lately, either, but she's so boring that I wouldn't remember it if I did.
She's still terribly fat, and pretty ugly, as well, so not talking to her is probably a relief.
She and Elizabeth will be going to the beauty salon today, and it will sure make this area a better place to have her all groomed up and looking a little better.
There's your mention, Barbara.
Steve and I tried our hand at stripping the floors at Creekside with chemical stripper last night, and it was a lot of work as well as a miserable failure. We have about decided to go with one of those huge belt-type sanders and fine-grit paper. That old, dried-out oak flooring is as hard as a rock, and won't give in to just any attempt at sanding it down.
I was little help, as I stay sleepy from the chemo treatments, and I am weakened from them, as well. I feel so useless and weary all the time. I'm also probably weakened by not eating as much sweet stuff, as Steve is trying so hard to keep my sugar level down. I've always had high sugar count, and being low does not give me the same energy level. But I think it's mostly the poisonous chemo and the bodily stress from the surgeries.
We have two peafowl hens setting on six eggs, and I really hope that they will hatch some babies for me. I'd love to get something (finally) from all the investment I've got in those birds. Their father would be the Jave Green male, and they bring big money at farm sales and auctions.
I brought some of Clarence's laundry home with me last night, and it was so filthy that Steve told me it might as well be thrown away. I used extra detergent, bleach, and warm water, and we'll see this morning if my efforts worked, when I take them out of the washer. Today, I'm going to strip the bed he used when he spends the night, as it looks pretty dirty. I don't think he was well-trained about cleanliness.
Marge Welch says she has some ribbon and a little lace she's sending me for my hat project, as well as for my own efforts towards my wardrobe re-do. I'm having to take up some of my clothing, and I'm 'blinging' it to make me look a little less tragic and sad. I just don't want to look as badly as I feel.
There are some ladies that have contacted me through my Craig'sList listing who have some things they want to give for my hat project.
I take almost any sewing notions, feathers, or beads, and try to make something nice for the chemo ladies and girls who have lost their hair.
Muriel Daniel has made another come-back from the doors of death, it seems. She has been quite ill for many years, and gets very low at times, but has always recovered. One of these times, she won't be coming home in her Lexus. That will be a very sad day, as she has been a good neighbor and friend to all in this area. She is married to Creed Daniel, a local lawyer, and is the mother of 'Cooter' Daniel, a local singer, and Dirk Daniel, who is also a local lawyer. He has done well.
The Tomato Festival did not do so well this year. I think the heat and the fact that there's almost always a bad storm right in the middle of the festivities have made people a little leery of it, and the fact that most of the merchants don't do much business. They've had to get by without me for many years.
I got a nice get-well card from Sister Katherine Judge, one of the nuns in Aunt Kitty's order, The Sisters of Saint Joseph of Rochester. She is a sweet little lady who has visited our home several times, and is always welcome. She assured me of her prayers, and the prayers of the Sisters in her convent.
Stumpy just came to sit in my lap while I'm writing. She always wants to be near me. I love that little bundle of fur and energy so much.
Lynn didn't come this time for my treatment because she has shingles. They're a misery to her.
I surely don't need to be exposed to them, as I have so little immunity at this time while on chemo.
Janie will be back on Sunday evening, and I'll be so glad to see her again. I hope she's not too tired from all her 'vacation'.
I've been trying to contact Cherokee, but she won't answer her phone. She screens her calls, and I guess she just don't want to talk to me.
I haven't talked to Barbara much lately, either, but she's so boring that I wouldn't remember it if I did.
She's still terribly fat, and pretty ugly, as well, so not talking to her is probably a relief.
She and Elizabeth will be going to the beauty salon today, and it will sure make this area a better place to have her all groomed up and looking a little better.
There's your mention, Barbara.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
This chemo pump is killing me. The muscle cramps are agony, I'm tired and sleepy all the time, and, if I don't lay down, I throw up. I can't get work done, and I hurt all over.
The pump weighs about 12-15#'s when it starts, but loses some seight as the medicing is pumped into me. But not much.
Steve went down to Creekside today for a while, but he doesn't last long at any project unless I'm with him. He soon came home, because we lost power there. There was a storm, and lightening struck a power transformer right in front of Creekside.
I didn't go up there, as I was so sleepy, and didn't feel like dressing and putting up my hair.
Marge called this afternoon to let me know that she has some ribbon and a few things with which to decorate hats for my chemo sisters.
I'm sleepy still (again) and need to get back to bed.
The pump weighs about 12-15#'s when it starts, but loses some seight as the medicing is pumped into me. But not much.
Steve went down to Creekside today for a while, but he doesn't last long at any project unless I'm with him. He soon came home, because we lost power there. There was a storm, and lightening struck a power transformer right in front of Creekside.
I didn't go up there, as I was so sleepy, and didn't feel like dressing and putting up my hair.
Marge called this afternoon to let me know that she has some ribbon and a few things with which to decorate hats for my chemo sisters.
I'm sleepy still (again) and need to get back to bed.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Wednesday AM August 1, 2012
There's not been as much excitement, though some at the chemo clinic.
I had one of my 'sleeping migraines' on Monday, and what would you know(?) the clinic was backed up terribly.
I kept telling everyone that I needed to lay down, or I would throw up. I don't know if they just didn't believe me, or if they didn't care, or if they were really all that busy, that they couldn't get me into a prone position, but they had just got me layed down, and I vomited up my toe nails.
The nurse got the doctor into the room really quickly, and she said that, with me being sick, I couldn't have chemo. That's twice that I've been too sick to have medical treatment.
I assured everyone that I would feel better after a day's rest, but they all seemed so surprised when I went in looking fine this morning.
Mother knows these things.
Two peafowl hens are setting on the same nest, so I hope the babies will have good mothering when they hatch.
Lynn didn't come this time for my chemo. She called last night to report that she has shingles. She wasn't aware that you could get a 'shingles shot' in most up-scale drug stores nowadays. She didn't want me to be exposed to anything that would cause me any more misery.
I told her that I was adding to my treasure of beads every day. I hope to be able to knock her socks off with all my new beads.
I called Steve's parents, and requested of Marge any left-over hobby supplies that she might have in her extensive collection of sewing and craft supplies. Lynn told me last night that she's sending me some lace and materials soon in the mail.
I've got to go up by the trailer to see if John's moved out, and I predict that he hasn't, so I will go to the court house and get an official eviction notice served on him. I think he thinks that he could 'sweet talk' me out of making him move. No way.
While I was getting chemo yesterday, Steve went out and rented a small sander with which to sand around the walls. I've used one before, and they're quite the trick. He and I were both fatigued last night, so didn't use the sander, We'll just have to pay another day's rental, but I really want those floors done. Then we can go ahead with door trim and baseboards. I can finish the floors with that trim in place.
Steve says he wants me to do the final finish on the floors, and he knows that the help we have would never suit me. I'm very particular with my wood finishing.
The floors are going to look great, but not exactly like they looked when the Lowe's lived there. They will be quite a bit lighter. I like the lighter look in my house. Lighter floors don't show as much dust, either.
I feel terrible all the time, so I don't get much done.
ClarenceSingleton is mowing at both houses, and he works for very little, because he wants us to help him when he needs help, and he knows that he will get it. He gets fed, his laundry done, he's cared for, and he gets new clothes.
He's been sleeping at Creekside some, which is not a bad idea.
I'm going to work on some small projects for a few minutes, then I need to get back to bed.
I had one of my 'sleeping migraines' on Monday, and what would you know(?) the clinic was backed up terribly.
I kept telling everyone that I needed to lay down, or I would throw up. I don't know if they just didn't believe me, or if they didn't care, or if they were really all that busy, that they couldn't get me into a prone position, but they had just got me layed down, and I vomited up my toe nails.
The nurse got the doctor into the room really quickly, and she said that, with me being sick, I couldn't have chemo. That's twice that I've been too sick to have medical treatment.
I assured everyone that I would feel better after a day's rest, but they all seemed so surprised when I went in looking fine this morning.
Mother knows these things.
Two peafowl hens are setting on the same nest, so I hope the babies will have good mothering when they hatch.
Lynn didn't come this time for my chemo. She called last night to report that she has shingles. She wasn't aware that you could get a 'shingles shot' in most up-scale drug stores nowadays. She didn't want me to be exposed to anything that would cause me any more misery.
I told her that I was adding to my treasure of beads every day. I hope to be able to knock her socks off with all my new beads.
I called Steve's parents, and requested of Marge any left-over hobby supplies that she might have in her extensive collection of sewing and craft supplies. Lynn told me last night that she's sending me some lace and materials soon in the mail.
I've got to go up by the trailer to see if John's moved out, and I predict that he hasn't, so I will go to the court house and get an official eviction notice served on him. I think he thinks that he could 'sweet talk' me out of making him move. No way.
While I was getting chemo yesterday, Steve went out and rented a small sander with which to sand around the walls. I've used one before, and they're quite the trick. He and I were both fatigued last night, so didn't use the sander, We'll just have to pay another day's rental, but I really want those floors done. Then we can go ahead with door trim and baseboards. I can finish the floors with that trim in place.
Steve says he wants me to do the final finish on the floors, and he knows that the help we have would never suit me. I'm very particular with my wood finishing.
The floors are going to look great, but not exactly like they looked when the Lowe's lived there. They will be quite a bit lighter. I like the lighter look in my house. Lighter floors don't show as much dust, either.
I feel terrible all the time, so I don't get much done.
ClarenceSingleton is mowing at both houses, and he works for very little, because he wants us to help him when he needs help, and he knows that he will get it. He gets fed, his laundry done, he's cared for, and he gets new clothes.
He's been sleeping at Creekside some, which is not a bad idea.
I'm going to work on some small projects for a few minutes, then I need to get back to bed.
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