Tonight I will be going to see the fireworks down at Summerfest. I stopped at the hospital on the way home and got my blood drawn to check my pro-time (INR) level. It bleed more than it has recently so hopefully that means the Coumadin is thinning my blood and I will reach the therapeutic level.

As I stated in an earlier post, one year ago, I went to the hospital to have a biopsy done on a swollen lymph node. What a year it has been. All sorts of conflicting emotions are running through my brain as I recollect, but I am amazed at the difference between then and now, just how good I am doing. Summer's here and I plan on doing all that I didn't do last year. Today is a scorcher, oppressive, yet wonderful. Each day is wonderful no matter what the experience, I'm alive, have an extraordinary family, and an incredible group of friends. First and foremost I will be going down to see the big bang fireworks opening night of summerfest. I can't think of a better way to start my summer.

Monday went by as quickly as the weekend. I'm busy at work, which is a good thing. I can't believe how nice the weather has been lately, nice to get outside to walk or bike ride. I'm looking forward to watching some good fireworks this week at the big bang and the 3rd of July. Last year I missed the big bang because I was in the hospital (after the biopsy) so I definitely want to go this year.

The weekend has been busy, fun, and now I'm ready to relax. I went out by Kim's Friday night and we all went out to the new McDonald's in Waukesha for dinner ($1.00 Quarter Pounders) then to downtown for Friday night bands. We wandered around, listened to music, watched a pottery demonstration, looked at tattoos, and had gelato. Saturday I helped out at Kim's rummage sale to raise money for the 88th Signal Battalion, then we went to Scott's sister Melinda's Summer Solstice party. I had a really good time hanging out with Kim, Scott, Sarah, and Nicholas. I got home around 10:00am this morning. I plan on relaxing, reading, doing a puzzle or two, watching TV. It's been a great weekend.

My pro-time is hovering around 1.8 and I need to be at 2 or above to be therapeutic. My medicine has been increased to 10mg a day to bump up my levels. I have to get my blood checked again this coming Thursday. Yay, more needles.

The food at work was delicious. For lunch I had a shredded beef sandwich, deviled egg, shrimp salad, chips and dip, fruit pizza, and of course, some of my banana cream trifle. I got compliments on my creation and it was almost gone by the time I left at 3:00pm. I stopped and had my blood drawn, to find out how my counts and pro-time are doing. I'll get the results tomorrow. Tonight I'm going to watch some TV and read a bit. I'm doing well, feeling great.

Tomorrow is food day at work. It is a picnic/pool party. I just made a banana cream trifle. I hope people like it. It contains layers of banana bread chunks, bananas, banana cream pudding, chocolate pieces, and cool whip. It was really simple to put together. There's going to be beef barbeque and shredded turkey sandwiches and whatever sides, snacks, desserts people bring in. I love food days!

An open audition to the producers of The Price is Right and CBS executives: I am interested in hosting the game show. I am witty, entertaining, and engaging. I can relate to people easily, am confident, secure, and knowledgable. My family, friends, cohorts, and their friends can attest to my genuine character. Please contact me for further information, I look forward to standing in front of a test audience. Thank you.

Stopped and got more prescriptions refilled after work (Coumadin and Nexium). Dragged the bike out and rode the trail for about 40 minutes. Napped on the couch for a while afterwards. Now I'm wondering what I'm going to do for dinner tonight. Too lazy to cook, but even lazier to get in the car and go through the drive-thru. Microwave cooking it is!

Just got to work, thought I'd post before the day begins. I am relieved by the drop in humidity, opened windows in the apartment, there was a nice cool breeze off the lake. Storms rolled through after I went to bed, woke me up briefly, but I went back to sleep immediately. I just remembered I was going to stop at the store on my way in to pick up something for lunch. Guess I will be running at noon.

This is my 301st post. I can't believe I've been writing all this time. I want to thank everyone for their continued support and interest. I am doing great. Things are so different from a year ago, when I was sick, but didn't know what was going on yet. At this time, I had the enlarged lymph node, low grade fevers, night sweats, and weight loss. Now I only sweat from the humidity and can't seem to lose the extra pounds I have since put on. Today is Father's Day and I am going to meet Mom and Dad for breakfast. Later on I hope to get in a bike ride, if the weather holds up. It has been beautiful out this past week. I'm off to start my day.

My DVD surround sound system died last night while I was watching Finding Nemo. Not sure what happened but the movie cut out and none of the command buttons worked. I couldn't even open the player to retrieve the DVD. I used a screw driver and unassembled the box to get it out. Needless to say it's still in parts on the floor. I will not attempt to reassemble it, but will start shopping for a new system. It's a good excuse to get out shopping!

What a beautiful string of days. It's the weekend, which looks good, nice temperatures. I plan on hanging out, keeping busy, riding my bike, visiting my parents. Nothing stressful, just enjoying the nice weather while it lasts.

I managed to get in a bike ride, do some laundry, and am now wondering where I going to pick up dinner from. I'm doing well, everything is fine, not anything too concerning. Considering a year ago I was in the beginning stages of my illness, anything that happens now pales in comparison. The weather has been beautiful, I'm glad I got my bike out. I'm still receiving disability checks from the government, which baffles me. I have contacted them about returning to work, have provided the information they requested. I'm not cashing any of the checks, waiting for notification from them that my payments have stopped. We shall have to wait and see.

Tonight is laundry night. Tonight is biking night. I have decided to start by biking two blocks south, two blocks west, four blocks north, then two block south. Every week I will add two blocks as I strengthen up. My legs are still sore from my biking adventure on Saturday.

Why do weekends fly by? Never enough time to do what you want to and sleep. Yesterday I bowled for a MS benefit. Three games, 113, 100, and 116, good for me. I had a good time, won a door prize and a raffle prize. Today I did a lot of running around, got outside. Now I'm ready to lounge.

I'm up early, going to head out on my bike shortly. I went over by Brian's after work yesterday and got the bike tuned up and we went for a short ride. I definitely have to rebuild muscle mass. It was great getting on the bike though. My blood counts are still low, more monitoring. I'll have it checked again in two weeks. I got home last night, had some dinner, then proceeded to fall asleep on the couch. Guess I was tired. Well, I'm off to the bike trail.

I got my blood drawn, will find out results some time tomorrow. I've been watching the news, they are being vigilant about the approaching storms. The reports are making me nervous, I hope things aren't as bad as they are stating. I have my flashlight next to me, water, and shoes ready to head down into the basement if I need to. Tomorrow I am finally going to go for that elusive bike ride. It's supposed to be a nice day.

It seems like I'm always hungry and tired. Today especially. Not much to rant about, it was a quiet day at work, kept busy. Tonight I am going to read. Not too exciting. I'm feeling good, hungry, and tired. Got a nice walk in after work, took a short nap, and had dinner. Tomorrow I will be getting bloodwork done, checking levels and Pro-Time. I'll stop after work to have that done.

Very cranky right now. About 2:30am the smoke detectors in the apartment started going off. It seems the drunken guy in apartment 1 fell asleep with a pizza in the oven. While there wasn't an actual fire, the halls were filled with smoke and the horrible smell of burnt pizza. I finally fell asleep around 4:00am. Up at 5:20am and out the door by 6:00am. What a loser. I'm sure the manager and owners will be getting lots of complaints today. I stopped and picked up a mocha at Starbucks on the way in and right by work there were four deer along the creek. Calmed me and actually made me smile. Now I'm ready for a nap. Back to work.

After work, I stopped at home, got the mail, and headed over to Mom and Dad's for dinner with them and Michael. Shredded Beef, yum! When I returned home, the news was covering a plane crash. I watched the coverage and wondered if the plane had flown over my apartment building on take off. What a terrible tragedy. The news will be covering this story for days.

I went for a long walk on the trail along the lake, got caught in the rain. I got soaked, but oh well. The doctor told me to increase my physical activity. Going to Steve and Tracy's son Ryans 2nd birthday party in a while. Jody and Kim will be there. I'm doing well, feeling good, it's the weekend after all.

Had my follow up with the Radiation Oncologist today. Overall everything looks good, the prognosis very positive. The residual effects of the radiation will last up to six months after treatment. My counts are all down 25% across the board, platelets being the worst. Those damn platelets! I have to monitor the levels now to make sure they rise to normal levels. Next check up is in six months, all tests handled by the Oncologist at this point.

Another nice day, warm temperatures, cool breezes, and a nap. I was beat when I got home from work, so I laid on the couch and fell asleep. Now I need to decide what I want to eat for dinner and what to watch on TV. Such difficult decisions to make!

Today went by uneventfully. I was busy, but not too busy at work. It is definitely warm and muggy out. I sorted clothes to do laundry when I got home, but lost my motivation. I'll do it tomorrow. Feeling pretty good, nothing troubling me enough to write about. Looking back over the past 12 months, I am stupified by all that I went through.

Just like that, the weekend is over. I'm preparing to go to bed, work is looming 10 hours away. I did manage to get out of the apartment today. I went over by Michael's and we watched episodes of the Venture Brothers. We've been talking about doing it for months, finally got around to it. I came home and slept for two hours. I've been reading since. My body has forgiven me for abusing it on Saturday. Good thing I didn't do anything yesterday. Weekends are never long enough, even with an extra day.

Yes, I am up. I was out the door by 7:00am, did some grocery shopping. It was a long gruelling evening. It took forever for 12:00am to arrive. Once we got through a few technical issues, the rest of the evening went okay. We had a lot of requests for current hip-hop music, which we only had a number of options. To keep the dancers grooving, we played what we could. I got home by 1:30am and as tired as I was, I didn't sleep well. I am going to be lounging today, napping. DJing is fun and exhausting.

My day begun early when the power went out. I woke up to every electronic device squawking as the power returned. I did manage to get a good nights sleep. The car is loaded up with equipment and music, my clothes, and a cooler full of water. I'm set for the reception. In a few minutes I'm going to jump in the shower and start getting myself ready. I will run out to Julies house, pick her and the rest of the equipment up, and head on out to the hall in Brookfield. We can set up any time after 3:00pm. The reception starts at 5:00pm. Getting prepared and working the event is a 24 hour job. Here's to a busy, hectic, fun time.

Getting out of the shower, getting dressed, and getting to work was a breeze this morning. I didn't have to wrangle with my hair. I like my cut! Thank Kim! Every three weeks I will be at her house. I'm buried knee deep in CDs, sorting out ones to take tomorrow to the reception. Julie and I haven't DJ'ed since September 2005. It'll be interesting and challenging to get through the day and night. It's all about the music tomorrow. The remainder of the weekend will be all about the lounging.

After having my blood drawn to measure my Pro-Time and a quick nap, I'm going to get my hair buzzed off. No more curls! The time has come. It is the Summer of short hair, by choice, not chemically induced. I've gotten so many compliments on my curls, but I just don't like my hair. To me it's unruly and unmanageable. I like jumping out of the shower and not doing a thing to my hair.

Made it through another day. It's absolutely beautiful out, I'm thinking about going for a walk. I'm feeling well, have been for days, weeks now. Everything's good, all my counts are where they should be. Lots of season finales on TV tonight, hard to decide which ones to watch. I'll figure it out after I get back inside. Time for me to get outside.

The weekend never lasts long enough. No matter how much lounging I do, I still want more. I'm at work, beginning my day, daydreaming of the couch. I spoke with my second cousin Patrick from Arkansas last night for quite a long time. He has encountered Lymphoma twice. We compared our experiences. It is quite interesting to hear about others struggles with the disease and the treatments. I enjoyed our conversation. Well I'm off to process some quotes for work, enjoy the day, enjoy your couch.

It's a beautiful day out, I actually went for a long walk this afternoon along the lake. I had to enjoy the nice weather. Tonight I'm going to go with Char and be a groupie for her band. It's been a while since I got to see her sing. We are both laughing fools about getting out together. I always have a great time with her, I'm looking forward to it.

Been a long day for me. I always feel worn out by Friday and today has been no exception. I laid my head down for about an hour after work, still could use a couple more. I think I'm going to get all the curls cut off, my hair is getting shrub-like. Kim is going to have to use pruning shears!

Listening to 80s music while working today, grooving to songs I used to flop around the dance floor. Those were the best days, nothing to worry about except dancing. Today is food day at work (I am currently at lunch). Soft shell Tacos for me, with refried beans, plenty of cheese, tomatoes and sour cream. YUM. I love food days. After work is nap time!!!

The day started out nice, warm. Then it got cloudy, rainy, cool. I liked it better yesterday. Days like this make me want to lounge on the couch in and out of sleep. Funny, that's what I'm doing now that I'm home from work. I got paid today, now I can afford to mail a letter and get gas in the car this week! Nickel and dimed to the poor house. Feeling great otherwise, absolutely no complaints about the body, (still not liking the curly hair though.)

Wow! It is absolutely beautiful out today. Should be outside, but I'm on the couch catching a few Zzzs. Going over by Mom and Dads for dinner tonight after a quick nap, I'll enjoy the weather then.

Saturday night and I'm home on the couch reading. I had a busy day. Julie and I got all the DJ equipment checked out, ran a sound check, and discussed music to play at the reception. Hiro, Julie's son, is adorable! He just turned one last week. It was the first time I seen him. He was shy at first, but by the time I left, I had a new friend! I had my Coumadin prescription refilled, bought some CDs, and took a nap. I just finished reading Decipher by Stel Pavlou, a fictional book about Atlantis. It was very good. I'm starting to read The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson. It is a humorous biography about growing up in the 50s. So far I'm entertained by it. Tomorrow is Mother's Day, so I am going to hang out with Mom and Dad for the day, until my couch calls for me.

Friday is finally here. The week seemed to drag for me. At least today did. Could be that I didn't get much sleep last night, was up late trying to sleep and when I did, I woke up after a few hours and laid there until it was time to get moving for work. Took a nap after I got home and have been listening to music and reading. Tomorrow I get to run around, so I can lounge about tonight.

The weather is still nice, not as warm as it has been but still good and my bike still needs air in the tires and I'm still taking a nap after work. I'm firing up the dual CD/Mixer to test out for Djing. Plan on getting together with Julie this weekend to finalize plans for the wedding we're doing on the 26th. It'll be fun, not looking forward to lugging the equipment back and forth, but that's part of the process. Off to the couch to stare out the window until I fall asleep. . .

My intentions are good. I still need to get air in my bike tires. Tonight would be ideal for a bike ride. From my couch it looks great outside. I think I'll read.

Everything looks good, I don't have to return to the Oncologist until August. I will have CT and Pet scans at that time. At least I get some time off to enjoy the summer.

Busy day ahead of me. I have my follow up appointment with the Oncologist this morning. Mondays at that office are slow and crowded and long. I'm at work, prepared to start my day. prepared to nap too.

Somehow the weekend flew by.

I am worn out today, not much get up and go. Have been lounging on the couch since getting home from work, took an hour nap too. My Pro-Time is down to 1.7 so I have to get it checked again next week to see if it is a fluke or if I need to have the medicine increased to get back over 2.0. I have been eating more healthier and it may have effected the blood thinners. I have lost some weight, I actually can fit into most of my pants now. That's a good thing. I'm getting my body back into shape. I do miss eating anything and everything I wanted.

Found this on the web, thought it would be interesting to do.

1. Choose a band / artist and answer ONLY in titles of their songs: Nitzer Ebb
2. Are you male or female: Lightning Man
3. Describe yourself: Let Your Body Learn
4. How do some people feel about you: Hearts and Minds
5. How do you feel about yourself: Getting Closer
7. Describe where you want to be: Ascend
8. Describe how you live: Fun to be Had
9. Describe how you love: I Give to You
10. What would you ask for if you had just one wish: Control I’m Here
11. Share a few words of Wisdom: Join in the Chant
12. Now say goodbye: Kick it

now you know something about me, something about the music I like

I found out today that I'm going to have two new neighbors. One across the hall and one in the apartment downstairs from there. Hopefully they will be decent respectful people. Got my daily walk in. Stopped at Target and got laundry detergent, should have gotten gas since the price is going up again. Tomorrow I have to stop and get my Pro-Time checked again. I'm kind of getting used to NOT being jammed with needles. grumble grumble.

Today started the first day of the walking club at work. Judy and I walked the business park during break this morning. I am starting to increase my physical activity in order to gain strength and endurance. After the storm pushed through, the weather cleared up nicely for us to get out and walk. I really am on the way back to myself.

Since today is Monday, it's all about the Big Mac. I ran out to buy lunch for Christine and I as a severe thunderstorm was approaching. I made it to McDonalds and got through the drive-thru quickly. Driving back I could see the storm rolling in and wondered if I'd make it back before the storm hit. Luckily, I did. No sooner did I walk in the door at work, it began to pour.

Spending most of the day on the couch, reading, napping. I have the windows open. It is beautiful out and I keep thinking about getting outside, but I want to have a lounging day, so I am watching the nice weather from the window. I need to have a day like this. Feeling good, getting plenty of rest.

Overly tired right now. Had my first computer class this morning. I am learning how to build a computer. Today was all about the internal components. Of course there is homeowork to do. Next week the process begins. It is interesting and confusing. I planned on taking a nap when I got home (around 12:30pm) but couldn't because the neighbor across the hall was in the process of moving out. They were loud. It is quiet now, but they might be back. I'm afraid to lay my head down, don't want to be rudely awakened. Beautiful day out and I am indoors. Hmmmm.

Going to head out for the evening in 45 minutes. Dinner with Kim, Scott, Sarah, Nicholas, Jody, Carl, Steve, Traci, and Ryan. Been awhile since we all got together. Should be lots of fun. I really could use a nap, but not going to be able to tonight. Oh well. I'll sleep when I get back.

My frozen lunch didn't seem appealling , so I ended up going to Quiznos and getting the prime rib on garlic toast. Delicious, garlicky. Of course I had to stop at Cold Stone Creamery too and got *mint ice cream, chocolate chips, kit kats, and oreo cookies. Can't wait to have my nightly snack about 7:00pm!!!

*ice cream makes me feel better when i'm crabby, tired, etc

I'll be napping when I get home from work. While I was able to stay up through the evening, I feel like I haven't gotten any sleep. I had to watch out for mountain lion this morning while getting out of the Jeep. I heard on the news one has been spotted in the area. There is a wooded area that runs along a creek and I have seen deer, coyote, squirrel, dog, sasquatch, crane, cardinal or two, but no mountain lion. I will keep a vigilant watch out my window.

I'm going to try to make it through the evening without taking a nap. We'll see how it goes. I am tempted to lie down on the couch. Things are going all right, Definitely feeling good. Tired of course.

I'm at work early morning, ready to begin my day. I can't help but think of what a great weekend I had running around, spending too much money, having a chocolate malt with breakfast, rummaging, driving miles and miles. It was a liberating, irresponsible weekend. They don't get any better than that.

After a busy day of writing up paperwork (I finished it all), I am finally going to get outside and enjoy the nice weather. I'm feeling good, not so wiped out as I have been, the fatigue is fading. Glad I got all my work done. Now it's time to play. and eat.

Brought a huge stack of paperwork home for the weekend. Going to be busy writing in between naps. The weather looks to be really nice too, so I am going to try and get out and enjoy it. Tonight I am going to lounge, do a logic puzzle or two and watch TV. Glad the weekend is here.

The Hot Dogs at lunch were awesome!!! April's food day was a tailgating theme. There were plenty of dogs, fixin's, pasta salads, potato salad, tuna salad, and chocolate cake. I ate plenty. Napped when I got home, had Alice in Wonderland on (Toon Disney has been showing movies from 4:00pm to 6:00pm) as I slept. Busy night on TV with Survivor, Grey's Anatomy, and ER. Feeling good, still tired but dealing with that, I love my naps.

I found it hard to get out of bed this morning and I felt tired all day despite getting eight hours of sleep. I took a nap once I got home. I had stopped at the store on the way and bought some fruit. I needed to get relish and celery salt for food day at work tomorrow and completely forgot it. I'll have to stop on the way, in the morning.

Not too much going on today. Worked a full day (for the first time in 20 days). Came home and took a nap. I'm still getting used to the fact that I don't have any treatments to go to! It was nice being able to take 30 minutes for lunch, being able to sit and enjoy my food. Looking forward to watching TV tonight and relaxing.

and with number 20 completed, I am done. Now the follow ups begin, in a few weeks. I came home, sat on the couch and cried. All the frustrations, fear, aggrevations over, replaced with a sense of relief and happiness.

Ready for a nap. I have been plunking away at the spreadsheet for work for a couple of hours. I want to finish what I can before I email it back to work. It seems like a nice day out, want to go bike riding, but I think the couch is more in line for this afternoon. Gameshow Network, a yoohoo, and a nap. Perfect Sunday afternoon activities.

I brought work home with me, to make up time I'm using on medical appointments. I have been on the computer throughout the day researching and pricing equipment. I took a break this afternoon, Mom called and invited me over for pizza. While there, I noticed I was wiped out. I came home and took a nap for two hours. I am done working, want to spend the evening on the couch, I am still tired. Plus Pretty in Pink is on at 9:00pm and I plan on watching it. Hey, MTV is having an America's Next Top Model Marathon!!!!

When the treatment is in progress (about 10 seconds) it can create static electricity and today it was apparent, the hair on my legs were standing up and dancing around. Afterwards, as I was changing back into my clothes, the gown crackled as I removed it. Number 19 out of the way, ONE MORE LEFT. While I'm glad to have a two day break, I'm kind of wishing it was Monday already.

Number 18 done. Only two more to go. I chatted with Shirley, a woman getting radiation treatment for lung cancer, while waiting for my turn on the table. She is in her early 50s and has four treatments left. We talked about our ordeals, being in remission, and moving on once treatment is finished. There was respect and compassion, along with a sense of relief in our words. We wished each other the best on my way out. I believe I feel human again. Ready to conquer the world. . . after I nap!

I've been watching the weather. It is deteriorating and I am dreading the drive to and from the clinic. What I dread worse is missing a treatment and dragging this out another day. I'll put the Jeep in 4WD and take my time. I'm hungry, tired, and ready to leave for the clinic now. I have another hour to go before I leave.

I shouldn't be too surprised, but my platelets are down under 100. The radiation treatments can effect blood cell counts. Since I am on Coumadin and my count is low, I need to be very careful not to injure myself. No shaving this week. (Damn!) Beside that, the fatigue has settled in. It seems like no matter how much sleep I get, it's not enough. This should last a few weeks after treatment ends. The doctor is pleased with my progress and I will finish up on Monday as expected. 16 treatments down, four more to go. If you haven't noticed, I have been counting since it began. Time to curl up on the couch again.

Treatment 15 is done. Went by quickly. I then got to have a massage. I asked the massuese to concentrate on my shoulder region. She did an awesome job. Right when I was at the point of total relaxation, it was over. Too fast. I told her I could lay on the table all day. I made sure I was on the list for next week. I had dinner by my Mom and Dad, along with Michael, Erin, and Justin. There is always so much food, roast beef, country fried steak, chicken strips, mashed potatos, peas and carrots, rolls, creamed cucumbers, jello and for dessert ice cream sundaes. I look forward to dinner every Monday. We sit and have a good meal, great conversation, and good laughs.

Happy Easter Everybody!!! Hope you all find wonderous things in your Easter baskets. Mine is filled with carefree days, restful nights, and hope for the future. That and chocolate. Been sleeping a lot, watching TV. I did get out and grocery shopped. I'm excited (egg-cited) to go over to Scott and Barb's for Easter Brunch today. Good food and company.

Finally Friday. I can sleep for hours if I want to. I want to. Had my 13th and 14th treatments. Counting down the days. My Pro-Time is 2.7, right where it needs to be. I'll get my blood checked again in a month. The clot must be getting smaller in size, there is no more pain or pressure behind the knee. I still get swelling, but that even seems less now. Work closed early today, so I came home right after my radiation treatment and now I'm going to go nap.

Got through two more treatments, numbers 11 and 12 the past few days. Only 8 more and I am done. The technology fascinates me, I'm always asking questions about the machine and the treatment, watching the machine as it rattles and hums, and microwaves me. The procedure really is nothing, I just lay on the table. When I was at EPCOT on my trip, I had the chance to learn to operate a Segway, the personal transportation of the future. It was cool! You have to be coordinated in order to drive it, so it was a challenge for me. I didn't hurt myself or fall off. The Segway costs about $5,000. Now I just have to win the lottery to get myself one to play with. Or I'll just have to go back to EPCOT and ride it again. I think I'll do that!

Have reached the half way point with today's treatment. Ten down, ten more to go. Reached my toleration point, just getting through the next two weeks is going to be a major challenge. Mindset: I just want it to be done with. I got a massage after treatment this afternoon. That was great, definitely a good thing to have at this point.

I need to shave but am too lazy. I have been reading most of the day in between naps. Not much to write about, haven't been up to anything. I have been experiencing diarrhea in the evenings. I can eat during the day without any issues, after dinner, watch out. Oh the joys of side effects. Immodium is my new friend. The fatigue is there, it doesn't interfere with much though. I like having two days to rest up.

Early Saturday morning. I'm getting breakfast together, cream of wheat, yogurt. I get a two day reprieve from treatments. Finished number nine yesterday. Found out that on Mondays, the massage therapist is in the office and I get to have one after treatment. I like that, something to look forward to. I'm heading out to the book store at some point and I think I am going to get Kopp's too. Hope the flavor of the day is decent.

Another day, another treatment. Eight so far. Twelve more to go. The doctor has decided to add three additional treatments just to make sure things are completely cleaned up. The rationale, I only received 50% dosage of chemotherapy most of the time. I am responding well to treatment, having minor skin irritation and noticing some fatigue. April 16th is now my final day of treatment. I'll be glad when it's over.

Today I became a registered member of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). I am interested in becoming an advocate. I feel it is the right thing to do. I wish I would have been aware of this foundation earlier, but I can do more now, so the timing is right. Don't be surprised if I become involved with fund raising events. Good things can come out of what I've been through.

I'm starting to feel fatigue. I noticed it while taking a walk with Judy this morning. I felt like I was struggling to keep pace even though we weren't walking fast. My limbs feel weighted down. I had another treatment, six down, eleven more to go. Overall it hasn't been too bad, the technology fascinates me. I'm always asking the technician questions about the machines, the laser beams. It's like I'm getting an education.

What a gorgeous day out. I thought about riding my bike tonight, but that's as close to getting outdoors as I can manage. I am considerably lazy. I'm riding the couch. I had the fifth treatment today, each one gets me closer to the end of the journey. Then what will I write about? I'm sure I'll find things to say.

10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 . . . The Magic Kingdom is officially open!!!!!


Oh, it seems like yesterday. It's been a month and everytime I think or talk about it, it's like I'm reliving the moment. What a trip it was. I got to show Tim and Julia the pictures last night over by Mom and Dad. We had dinner together, then the picture show. Mom and Dad have seen the pictures, and Mom can narrate pretty good! I enjoyed my time with them!

Early Saturday morning. A misdialed call woke me up. I feel like sleeping all day. I went out for a fish fry with Brian and Ellen after work, then we picked up Margie and met Michael at the movie theater to see 300. It was a brutally good movie, will definitely buy it on DVD. I got home shortly after 9:00pm and was asleep by 10:00pm. Treatment yesterday went fine, it's funny how it has become part of my daily routine. It'll be funnier when it's not part of my day though. Today is going to be a lazy one for me, I just want to lay around, and I'm going to.

Got the third treatment out of the way. I'm starting to get into the routine, it's not so bad after all. For now. The nurse informed me that side effects are delayed, it takes about 10 days. I feel okay, so I will see next week. I'm going to lay low, not do too much during this time. I like lounging, so now's the time to do it.

Had the second treatment today. The nurse sat with me and explained side effects. Fatigue and skin irritation are the main ones. I may experience nausea and diarrhea also. I will have blood drawn on Tuesdays and see the doctor on Thursdays during my span of treatments. I just have to get used to my new routine. Patrick mailed me copies of pictures from his camera and copies of the ones taken by the Disney photographer. I now have over 300 pictures to choose from. Be prepared for the onslaught!

Not anything like I expected it to be. All things considered, it was nothing. I just laid on the table, the machine rotated around me, and buzzed when the radiation was being applied. Once on top, once underneath. Buzz for about 10 seconds each application. Took me longer to get dressed. I have new temporary tattoos, the old ones replaced, a whole new treasure map. It was all very interesting.

Well I finally got the phone call today. I begin radiation treatments tomorrow. While I'm glad to get things started, I'm nervous and scared. Once I know what I'm going to experience, I will be more relaxed. April 11th is my last scheduled treatment. Is it April 12th yet?

Spent the day at a wedding shower. Katie and Jason's. Julie and I are DJing their wedding at the end of May. Katie is Kim's niece. It was nice getting together with the Klugiewiczs. I always have a good time with my second family! Plenty of good food and friends. I'm a bit worn out, not used to the crowds and noise. My leg is getting stiff, swollen from being active today. Tonight I'll be lounging on the couch.

Got all those curls cut this morning. I feel much better about my hair now that it has been tamed. Kim did a nice job shaping it, the cut is more conducive to curly hair, I don't mind it for now. I guess I will have to work with my hair then resent it. I'm grateful it grew back, but does it have to be so darn curly?

No phone call yet. I'm agitated. Monday I will be calling the clinic. I'll have an enjoyable weekend, lots of things to do like laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping. No side effects to slow me down at all. Just want to get the ball rolling on the radiation treatments. I'm still agitated.

I remember the first night in Florida, Pat, Toni, Chris, and I went to Downtown Disney and had a celebratory dinner at Fulton's. Fresh seafood. I had a combination platter of Mahi Mahi, Alaskan King Crab, and Shrimp. I usually don't eat any seafood except shrimp, so I was being brave. Pat and Toni shared a platter of Lobster and Crab legs, which creeped me out! Here is a picture of the Lobster. Chris had Fried Shrimp, Scallops. It was delicious and a great start to the vacation. It's been three weeks all ready and it seems like years ago.

Still waiting on the phone call from the radiation oncologist to start treatment. I wanted to begin last week, wondering if it won't be until next week. I am wondering too much, it's picking at my brain, playing with my mind. I have said this so many times all ready, I want to start now, to get it over as soon as possible. The warm weather has passed for now, back to cold days. I have spring fever, badly. I do like having daylight savings time early. Got the oil changed, the tires rotated, and new wiper blades on the Jeep. Getting ready for Spring.

Not too much going on. Just working, lounging, reading, watching TV. I still am waiting to find out when radiation treatments are going to start, I figure Thursday or Friday, at the latest next Monday. I'll be glad to get started, then it'll be over. I'm doing fine, feeling good, no complaints.

Beautiful sunny day, nice out. I got the Jeep washed, stopped at the bookstore, went for a walk. It's been a good day. Feeling great, the leg's not bothering me. I'll take days like this anytime!

More about the trip: Animal Kingdom is my favorite park. I love the Jamming in the Jungle parade. Everest Expedition is an awesome ride. I love the atmosphere. Pat, Chris, and I went there first, met up with Aunt Christine and Uncle Doug. While walking through the park we saw Lilo and Stich, so I had to get my picture. I have to tell the story of the Iraq War Veteran. Chris and I noticed him while on the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. He was in a wheelchair, I first caught glance of artificial arms, hooks for hands. Then he stood up on two artificial legs and walked to the viewing area around the gorillas. I wanted to stare, watch, but couldn't. My heart went out to this guy, his wife, and small children. I didn't notice his face was scarred, his nose missing. Behind him there was a parade of five electric carts with overweight individuals. I was appalled, even disgusted. I wanted to cry for this man trying to make a normal life and scream at the people who were capable of having one but weren't making the effort. I felt my experiences with the cancer and the blood clot aren't so bad in comparison. I also have the utmost respect for this man and none for the current Washington administration. Another fleeting moment at the Animal Kingdom featured the Minnie Girls, three cute Asian girls wearing red miniskirts with white polka dots, black leggings and yellow shoes, just like Minnie Mouse. They were adorable, Chris managed to get his picture with them. We spent the rest of the trip looking for them! More on events of the trip when I recall them...

My Pro-Time is 2.6, Dr Kaiser wants me to continue on the current dose of Coumadin I am taking and have my blood checked again in a month. I finally looked at my body tattooed, I feel like a treasure map, purple Xs on my hips, stomach, and where the lymph node was removed. They are temporary, should last the three weeks of treatment.

Oh yeah, I finally got a Sam's Club card, Thanks to my Dad!!!!

Just another day, not much going on. I'm waiting for a phone call from Dr Kaiser about my Pro-Time, had my blood drawn yesterday. Want to make sure the blood thinner is working (therapeutic). Hope I don't need to have more blood work for a while, give the old veins a rest. Work's been slow, hope that picks up soon. Daydreaming about Disney, seems like it's been a long time since I've been there. The Jeep's paid off, officially mine now, so that money can be directed towards student loan payments. Feeling good, Really good. After radiation treatments and a few weeks recovering, I plan on getting the bike out and riding the trail along the lake and learning archery. Once the weather turns, I want to start enjoying the outdoors more than I have lately. Just another day.

Well, the planning and scans went fine. It was not what I expected at all, no stainless steel, no radiation suits, I wasn't strapped down to a sterile operating table. I had to drink barium for the scan, the contrast material provided the flush of warmth through my body. I wasn't too embarassed during the planning stage, the technician worked on me without too much exposure. I am tattooed and ready. Treatments will start sometime next week.

Today's appointment included a physical exam, the doctor explained about the radiation treatments, the technician explained the procedures, and blood work (more needles!). Thursday, I go for another CT Scan and measurements, plotting for actual treatments, that will start sometime next week. I was hoping to start immediately, but that isn't in the cards. What's one more week? I'm beginning to feel like this is never going to end. I just want to get this over with and put it behind me. Plus I'm tired of taking time off from work for appointments.

Just got up, had the chance to sleep a little later this morning. I have my appointment with the Radiology Oncologist today. I'm not sure what to expect and that has me a little edgy. Until I am familiar with the process, I will be nervous. Once again I have the image of stainless steel room, me strapped to a table, and people in radiation suits on the outside looking in, watching. Something out of a bad sci-fi movie. Oh how I wish I were at Disney MGM Studios, dining at the Sci-Fi Cafe, watching B-movies with Pat and Chris again . . .

The last few days of rest have been good. I put my leg up as much as possible. I'm glad I decided to relax. Not only did I get to Disney, Chris, Pat and I went to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. One of my favorite rides was Dr Doom's. Chris and I are on the right. As I recall more events of the trip, I will be writing about them.

I start my radiation treatments soon, have my planning appointment on Tuesday. The doctor will take measurements and I will be tattooed so technicians will know exactly where to place the radiation. I am wary of the treatments, but know this will improve my condition. Having been on my trip, I can do this. The sooner I get treatment, the soon it'll all be over. I just might have to go on another trip when I'm all done. Oh yeah, and when I can afford it!

It's already one week since I got to throw pixie dust and open the Magic Kingdom. The euphoria lingers like I'm still standing at the Main Street Station overlooking the throngs of people waiting to enter the park. The wonder of it all didn't end there. We were invited by the Mad Hatter and Alice to ride the teacups later that morning. What a day it was!

How easy it is to get into the vacation routine and how hard it is to get back to the grind. I woke up early this morning and it was snowing, cold, and windy. I was expecting sun, warmth, and another day at the theme parks. Reality sunk in fast. Good thing I have a few days to get into the swing of things. Today I am resting my leg, after eight days of walking, walking, walking. Now it's dreaming, dreaming, dreaming of my next trip to Disney. It always goes so fast.

It has been a turbulent day. Both flights were bumpy, especially the one from Detroit to Milwaukee. I was conflicted about coming home. I had an amazing time at Disney and didn't want it to end, yet I wanted to be home and see my Mom and Dad and family and friends. My trip was incredible, satisfying, and makes me want to live in Florida. Back to the snow and cold. All is good, I am good. What an adventure!