Wrapped in a Blanket 10:44 AM

I just cannot get warm today. Had a busy day yesterday, went to Culver's for lunch, then Sam's club for essentials. Got home, unloaded, then headed out the door to Potawotomi to meet Jody for dinner and the chance at winning big bucks. Notice I said chance. I am just going to stay on the couch today, wrapped in my blanket, reading and watching disaster movies on TV, trying to stay warm. It's not even that cold out.

All in a Day 7:46 AM

Up too early. I would like to have slept in. Had an interesting day yesterday. I went to court on the too fast for conditions citation from the accident. There were lots of underage drinking, owi/dui, and traffic violations. My name was called, the judge read the citation, asked me if I had questions, then kept the fine and reduced the points. I then paid the ticket and left. Some cleaning and vacuuming later, I went out for pizza and a movie with Doug. We went to the IPic theater at Bayshore. Very nice, comfortable big seats. I would definitely go there again. Today is wide open, I'm sure I'll find something to keep me entertained.

As the Snow Flies 8:24 PM

Looking out the window, I daydream about Florida, Disney, warm weather, Summer. I often wonder what am I doing in Wisconsin, I don't like Winter. The answer is my family and friends. Especially on nights like tonight when the snow is falling, I dream. Then I talk to someone, make plans for the weekend, and I am grounded and content, knowing winter shall pass and I'll enjoy being in Wisconsin.

Climbing the Mountain 6:16 PM

I finally faced the mounds of laundry piling up. Started once I got home, the last load is in the washer, and one in the dryer as I write. I kept putting it off, for some reason, I'd rather be channel surfing, doing a puzzle, or reading. I'm glad I decided to deal with the wash. I'm feeling really good. Not experiencing any aches or pains or feeling worn out. The week is going by pretty fast, hard to believe it's Wednesday night. Not liking the snow predicted for tomorrow. Hopefully I'll be home before it starts. I'm excited because I read today that The Mole is going to be on ABC again. It is one of my favorite reality shows. American Idol is going to start and another season of Survivor begins soon, so I'll have plenty of shows to watch.

The Rental Car 5:46 PM

This is the rental car. Not what I expected at all. It handles pretty good and it'll get me through the week. The Jeep is in the shop, estimated time of completion is January 15th. I'm going to have to put the PT Cruiser through it's paces. The weather is definitely been wierd today. Severe thunderstorms and tornados pushing through the area, along with nice temperatures in the 50's. Of course winter returns in the next couple of days.

Out in the Fog 2:50 PM

Met up with Heather and her kids George and Ellie at Target for some shopping then over to Panera for a late lunch. I can't believe just how foggy it is outside. Some blocks were blanketed and others clear. It makes for interesting driving. It was good to see them and spend time with them. George got a treasure chest and Ellie some Barbie toys. I spent too much money yesterday so I didn't get anything even though I could have gotten plenty. I'm home now, going to read and watch the Futurama marathon on TV. Tomorrow the Jeep goes into the shop and it's another week of work. I had a great weekend.

Non-Stop 8:33 PM

I've been going since this morning, one thing after another. Got my haircut, went to Mayfair, out to dinner, and going to hang out with Doug tonight. Yesterday I was wondering what I would do to fill up my day, and I found plenty to keep me busy. Tomorrow Heather, who's in town from St. Louis, and I are going to meet at the coffee shop and catch up with each other. It's a good diversion from my normal lounge about weekends.

Something to Do 8:01 PM

The weekend is here and I have plenty to keep me busy, yet I feel I need something to do. The laundry is piling up, I could clean and organize, the book I started is getting good and there's still the ANTM marathon going. Instead I think I'm going to get out this weekend and run around. I went out for dinner tonight at Carleton Grange for a good fish fry and now I'm going to wind down on the couch and think about all I want to do this weekend. I'm sure I'll find something.

Start your Engines 5:12 PM

The day began roughly. When I went out to the Jeep this morning, it wouldn't start. The engine turned over but would not catch. As I tried, the battery waned. A quick phone call and Dad was over to get me to work on time. Thanks Dad! I made arrangements for a rental car while the Jeep is getting repaired. It should be interesting to drive a different vehicle for a week or so. Of course Dad got the Jeep running and took it over to his house and charged the battery. He picked me up after work in the Jeep and I filled the tank with gas and got us both home. I got some running to do tonight, I'm sure I won't encounter any problems.

In the Middle 7:27 PM

The passing holidays have really confused my days. It felt like the beginning of the week instead of being Wednesday. It's going to take me a few days to readjust. I picked up copies of the cruise pictures finally and am in the process of putting together an album. It's kind of fun reliving the moments as I go through the pictures. I've been feeling really good, have gotten through the angst of additional doctor visits. The scans have been scheduled for the 25th of this month. Still watching the ANTM marathon and going to start reading a new book.

Good as New 8:41 PM

The mob at Bradford Beach

Steve coming out of the Lake

People running back from diving in the water

The first day of 2008 has been good. I celebrated with Kim and the Klugiewicz family to ring in the new year. Got home by 1:00am and slept in (7:45am if you can call that sleeping in!). I got up, made some coffee, got ready and headed out to Bradford Beach for the annual Polar Bear gathering. While it was cold, it was fun to watch all the crazy people. Got to watch part of the ANTM marathon on cable, then hung out with Doug for the evening. It was a good way to start off the year.

It's New Year's Eve. I'm going to go out and celebrate all the good. Have a safe and happy turn of the clock.

It's getting to be year end and what a year it's been for me. The recollection of things I've experienced throughout the year contain both highs and lows. Looking back, it's hard to believe some of the rough things I've gone through and easy to remember the good. The highlights include finishing chemotherapy and radiation treatments; the Disney trip in February and getting to open the Magic Kingdom; the Light the Night walk for Leukemia and Lymphoma in September; the Disney Cruises November/December; and my family and friends who color my days and nights. Those were some of the prominent moments, but smaller meaningful moments include afternoon scrabble games with Mom and Dad; Friday night dinners; going for coffee; reading a book; sharing a laugh. 2007.

I am perturbed. The oncologist wants me to have scans done in four weeks and is consulting the hematologist because my counts are low and the lymphs abnormal despite no trace of lymphoma in my system. I don't know what to do, feel great, not experiencing any problems, and just want to move on from this. I know I have to do follow ups and keep on top of things, but this is just dragging on and on.

Work wasn't too bad to get through, good thing I have work to do. I behaved and didn't buy anything online. I am attempting to get the social security check debacle resolved, looks like I'm going to have to waste time at the local office. They want me to repay for checks I returned since I wasn't eligible. It is a nightmare, I thought I had things taken care of. Tomorrow is my oncology appointment, blood check and hopefully the last one for a number of months. I'm afraid to get my hopes up though.

Merry Christmas. I am home after an adventurous journey to Battle Creek for the holidays. The train was late by almost two hours through Indiana because of a freight train derailment. I felt like I was on the train for days. Once I got to Patrick and Toni's, I could relax and enjoy my visit. There was plenty of food, games, and movies to entertain us. I got to hang out at some of Christopher's coffee houses in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. We celebrated on the eve, presents, lasagna, pizza. I am grateful for the time with Pat, Toni, Christopher, Mom and Dad. The time went fast. The ride home was uneventful, I got pictures of the derailed freight train as we passed on the way home. It was cleaned up pretty much than when I first went by on Saturday. Now I'm on the couch and lounging, it's back to work in the morning.

Before I begin the weekend, I figured I had better do a post. Since I'll be in Michigan, I won't be online until I return. Work was all right, the day dragged. Everyone seemed to be waiting for it to end. I'm set for travelling, got my bags packed, heading out early tomorrow morning on AmTrak. Merry Christmas!!! Let the festivities begin!!!

One week ago, I was on board the Wonder. Time sure does fly. Instead of doing laundry, I went and met Doug for dinner and some shopping. I had a better time doing that than sorting whites and darks. One of my favorite foods from Disney is the chicken strips, so in honor of the cruise, that's what I ordered. I now have all the pictures (over 500) to sort through, so I'll be posting them for weeks to come. It was food day at work and there was lots of it to eat, hot turkey, ham, treats. I stuffed myself. Now I am going to start packing for the trip to Battle Creek.

Not doing too much tonight, got a load of laundry in the dryer, been reading and thinking about what to eat for dinner. I had a good time at the party last night, spent most of the time socializing. The food was excellent. I didn't stay out too late, was home around 9:30pm. Here's another picture from the cruise, this one of Doug, Mickey, and I in front of the huge Christmas tree in the lobby(?) of the ship. I still get a smile on my face about the whole experience.

Here I am on the deck of the Wonder after spending the day at Castaway Cay in the Bahamas. This trip was one of the best vacations I have had. Every day was an adventure. I'm about to head out to the company Christmas partym which should be an adventure in itself. I got the go ahead from my insurance company and have scheduled the repairs on the Jeep for January 7th. Another adventure I guess.

It wasn't too bad getting up this morning and out the door to work. I expected to be dragging, but got a good nights sleep. Of course I wanted to be on the ship, but harsh reality kept me grounded. It took 45 minutes to get home because College Avenue was closed and the traffic back up was insane. I'm going to start unpacking so I can begin to pack for my trip to Battle Creek this weekend for Christmas. Tomorrow night is the company Christmas party downtown so I won't begin laundry until Wednesday.

The trip was incredible! I had one hell of a time. The Wonder is a great ship, the cruise one of the best vacations I have been on. Doug is a great friend and travelling with him is relaxing. When you travel with the right people, it makes all the difference. Met some really nice people at our dinner table, hung out on the beach with them, went to shows with them, I had a blast. I'll post pictures and have stories when I motivate. I'm off to the couch to vegetate.

I'm sitting here, waiting for Doug to pick me up and head out to the airport. Looking forward to a great time on the cruise. I won't be posting anything until I return, I'm sure I will have plenty to say then. I rescheduled my follow up with the Oncologist to December 27th, so I get two weeks without a doctor's appointment. I like that.

Got the Jeep in for an estimate tonight after work. Needs $2,000+ in repairs. Yikes. Waiting on the Insurance company now. I can get it in as soon as Thursday. Repairs should take about one week. I'll have to get a rental to get around. The weather is supposed to get nasty tomorrow and I've got an appointment at the Oncologist. If the roads are bad, I will reschedule. As the trip gets closer, I'm getting more excited. Last week contained some highs and lows, it'll be nice to just kick back, relax, and have an enjoyable time.

All my clothes are ironed and most are packed for the cruise. Thanks to Mom for pressing my dress pants for me. Four days and I sail away. I am really looking forward to the escape. Going to read and watch TV and just relax for the rest of the day. Celebrated Sarah's 11th birthday yesterday out by Kim's. It was great to see everyone. It was noisy, crowded, and a good time.

Right Passenger Side

Driver's Side

Here's the damage to the Jeep. Contacted my insurance company and am being referred to a local body shop. I drove around some today, not any problems except it's hard to get into the vehicle on the driver's side. I'll be glad when the Jeep is in the shop. I'll be glad to be on the cruise in a few days too!

Definitely not one of my better days, I smashed up the Jeep on my way home from work this evening. Grabbed a patch of ice, fishtailed, and lost control and hit a pole. The Jeep is damaged, I had to remove part of the front bumper in order to drive. I'm all right, didn't get hurt, just shook up.

I'm not liking the snow at all. Just finished ironing all my shirts and pants for the trip, will be packing over the weekend. Tomorrow I get my stitches out. I guess I really am on the way now. I planned on doing so many things once I got the okay, now I can't procrastinate! Unfortunately it's cold, wintery, so the outside activities like archery and bike riding will have to wait. I'll have to find some other way to get in shape. I'll worry about that after the cruise.

It's been 24 hours since the phone call and I'm still overwhelmed. The magnitude and resonance of those two words "Cancer Free" is outstanding. After everything I have been through since July 2006, to hear those words is wonderful. I have experienced every emotion possible. I can hardly contain myself. To all my family and friends, your love and support has got me to where I am today. I can not express my gratitude with words or actions, it runs that deep. Just know that I do appreciate and love you all. Cancer Free. WOW.

I am cancer free!!! Just got off the phone with the oncologist and the biopsy shows no presence of cancer in my lymphatic system. I am elated!!!

Been a quiet rest filled day for me. I was finally able to take a shower this afternoon, which felt great, after 48 hours of not getting the incision wet. I haven't had any pains, nor taken any medication for it. I apply antibiotic ointment given to me by the doctor every few hours as directed. I haven't worn anything with a collar all weekend, so it will be interesting to wear one to work in the morning. Just reading and watching TV and lounging. I like to lounge.

Didn't sleep very well through the night, I can only lay in one position otherwise my neck feels tight and I notice the incision. Pain hasn't been a problem, just worried about damaging the wound. I sleep in short stints. Another day or two and I should be back to my regular sleeping pattern. I'm going to run out to Target this morning before the storm, then I will hibernate.

My neck is definitely sore now. The surgery went fine. I arrived at the center as scheduled and filled out the paperwork, then began the long wait to be called. About an hour later they called me and took me back to the pre-op area to get ready. I put on a gown and was given several shots of anesthesia to the neck. Ten minutes later I was taken to the operating room. I layed on my back with my head turned to the left, exposing the right side of my neck. The doctor came in and it began. I didn't feel anything except some pressure and the sensation of my hair being pulled on the right side. Not sure how long it took, but it went quick enough and the doctor was done and I was sewn up. I got to see the lymph node they removed. It was interesting. I was taken to the post-op area, given instructions, and sent on my way. I got home around 12:30pm. I laid my head down and napped. I get the sutures removed next week Friday. I should have the results sometime next week also.

I wanted to sleep in this morning, but to no avail. I'm up and moving around. Going to read a little before I get ready and head over to the surgery center. My appointment is at 10:30am with arrival at 10:00am. There are no restrictions so I can have breakfast. I will post more later today about the procedure. Had a nice relaxing evening last night, went out for pizza, then watched a movie. I was home and asleep by 10:00pm. Today's number is 10!

It's been an uneventful day. It's nice to have days like this at times. I've just been reading and watching TV. One more day of work this week, then the biopsy. I plan on doing nothing but lounging all weekend. Life is good!

I received my documents today for the Disney Cruise!!! I can't believe I'm going to be going in two weeks!!! I already have my clothes picked out and some stuff packed for the trip. Work is keeping me busy, it's nice to walk in the doors and have something to do. I'm reading this good book, "The Book of Lost Things" by John Connolly. It's about a boy who loses his mother and the books she read begin to talk to him. I have settled down myself, not dwelling on the biopsy, it is what it is, and fretting over it doesn't change things. The biopsy should give me definite answers.

It's been a tough day for me. Hard to explain why, but it has. I've been dwelling on the biopsy and it has me agitated. The surgery itself, and the test results don't upset me. It's what I may be losing that has me off balance. I have been feeling so good, planned things to do, feel like I am finally getting my life back. I've been through so much, I just wanted to have time to enjoy all the good things in my life. I will face whatever comes my way, but I will lament should I have to stop what I have been doing.

Another day, another ANTM marathon on MTV. I met up with Julie earlier at Starbucks, had lunch at Beans and Barleys. I enjoyed getting together and just shooting the breeze, catching up with each other. I really don't like cold weather, so I plan on hibernating tomorrow. Plus I think there's another ANTM marathon showing.

I did venture to the stores today. Don't know what I was thinking. They were crowded, frantic, noisy. I didn't buy anything until I got to the bookstore. The atmosphere was much more subdued. Been watching the ANTM marathon on MTV, lasts until 11:00pm. Hopefully I will last that long. I'm baking some cookies to snack on too. Tomorrow is wide open, no plans, but I'll find something to do. Oh yeah, the biopsy is scheduled for next Friday, November 30th. I can't wait for that.

Happy Thanksgiving! I've had my bountiful meal, played some slots, and a game of scrabble. Now it's time to nap, because I can. Later I'm going to watch TV and read. Contemplating whether I should venture to the stores tomorrow, but will determine that in the morning. I am also thinking about getting the tree up from the storage area and start some decorating. I have the whole weekend to motivate myself.

After much thought throughout the evening, a few internal struggles, I am going to have the biopsy done to find out one way or the other. I don't like not knowing. I discussed with the ear, nose, and throat specialist the procedure and feel it is the appropriate course to take. Since the scans and blood work are inconclusive, the biopsy will answer the one remaining question. It will be done as out-patient surgery, take about 15 minutes, and a few stitches.

Once again I didn't get to hear the word I was hoping for. The same areas in my abdomen and chest showed up on the scans. The doctor wants to perform a lymph biopsy to determine what is going on. All my blood work came back normal and I have no symptoms of the cancer. I am disturbed by the news and discouraged, especially since I feel so good. I am not sure what I am going to do, I need to think about things and make an educated decision. I don't want to go through any unnecessary procedures or treatments. I just wanted to hear one simple word.

The day went fast, I was surprised by that. The weather is deceiving, damp yet warm, still overcast. Tomorrow I find out the results of the scans. I'm eager, nervous. Despite the fact that I'm feeling great and have had no issues, there's still doubt. Not enough though to alter my mood or well-being. I had dinner with Mom, Dad, and Michael tonight. It's always nice to sit around the dinner table and catch up with each other.

Didn't go bumming last night because it was cold and rainy. Going to go today instead. There's some things I want to get, so I'm going to do some running today. Still feeling great so I'm anticipating a good report from the oncologist on Tuesday.

What a gray dreary day it's been. I was out the door early, helped Char with the liquidation sale at her store. She has to be out of the space by the end of the month. Everything is $1.00 no matter what and there were pushy people who wanted to barter. Michelle stopped in with Kaiyah (whom I named by the way). She's so adorable. I held her, fed her, and she laughed and giggled and beeped. Came home and napped, going to go bumming later with Doug. Now I'm off to lounge on the couch for a while.

It's finally the weekend. I want to hibernate, wrapped in a blanket. I'm sure I'll have moments to do other things like grocery shop and laundry, but tonight I don't plan on doing anything.

I made it through the scans. Actually fell asleep briefly while moving through the machine during the Pet scan. The radioactive material upset my stomach and I had gastro-intestinal issues all afternoon. The effects are wearing off finally. My friend Doug and I are going on the Disney Wonder in December, got a deal we couldn't pass up. Looking forward to the trip. We get to hang out with Mickey on Castaway Cay.

All my levels are good, counts normal. Tomorrow I have the scans, so the fasting begins about 8:30pm tonight for 12 hours. Only water for me until after the test. Have been snacking all night in preparation. Going to watch ANTM and Project Runway tonight, two of my favorite shows.

Here I am playing onboard the ship, Disney Wonder. It was definitely a wonder. I had a great time. Going to be a busy week for me now, have the Pet and CT scans on Thursday morning and the doctor's appointment the following Tuesday. With all the excitement I've had this past weekend, my energy level is up and I'm feeling better than ever. Put out good thoughts to the cosmos for clear scans, that is what I want most of all.

I am back. The trip was incredible. I completely enjoyed the cruise. The Disney Wonder is awesome. The weather was beautiful, there was so much to do onboard the ship. I would go again. My suitcase is still packed, I really should start to unpack it. The whole experience was relaxing and restful. I had a great time. I want to go back!

I'm all set for my journey. Suitcase packed, got my puzzle book and my reading book, and snacks. Completely excited about the trip. Might get to Downtown Disney and maybe even one of the parks while I'm in Orlando. Next week I will have the Pet and CT scans done and a follow up with the oncologist after that. Things have been going well, I've been feeling great. I will not have any posts until I return late on Sunday the 11th. Everyone have a nice week.

It was a busy day at work, trying to clear my desk before I leave for Orlando on Wednesday. I remembered I can eat green leafy vegetables again, so I had to have a Big Mac at lunch. For those who don't know, Mondays are all about the Big Mac. It was decadent; delicious. I have most of my clothes picked out for the trip, tomorrow I will actually pack though.

I slept through the time change and slept until 9:00am. A good ten hours of sleep. I decided to do some laundry and ended up watching VH1-Classic channel all morning. My newest guilty pleasure is "We are the 80's." Nothing but music videos from the 1980s. I can not tell you how much I loved watching them. I'm going to do laundry now. It's been a nice relaxing weekend.

It's Saturday. I slept in, lounged about, showered, got dressed, then headed out for a couple of hours. I got my haircut, then went with Kim to Starbucks for coffee and conversation. Stopped at Noodles for some food then came home. Just a nice relaxing day.

One small step in the right direction. One large step towards getting better. I do not have to take Coumadin any longer. After nine months, the doctor has finally determined enough time has passed, no new clots have been detected, and no complications have occurred. The only thing that remains now is the one word I want to hear to complete my recovery. Remission. I will have scans done in the next few weeks. Hopefully there will be no questionable areas and the scans will be clean. This has been one long process for me. I have been feeling great, so optimism and good thoughts abound.

Wow this year has gone by too fast. I can not believe it is November already. I am taking a break tonight, I didn't bring any work home. I ran downtown after work and got certified copies of my birth certificate so I can go on the cruise and apply for a passport. I want to go to Disneyland Paris in the future. Tonight though, it's all about watching TV and lounging.

The days are flying by. Keeping busy with work, every night I bring home a stack of invoices to data enter. I stopped at the hospital on my way home tonight to get my INR checked, hopefully it will have come down some. I booked a trip on the Disney Cruise ship Wonder for next week Wednesday. I am excited. I need to get downtown to get a certified birth certificate and out by Kim to get a haircut before then. A week from today, I'll be in Orlando. For now, I'm typing away at the computer.

I am done with the stack of invoices I brought home. Tomorrow, I'll grab another stack. At least it's casual day and I can wear jeans to work. It seems I am more productive when I'm working in jeans. Today was trick or treat here in Cudahy and I didn't see very many kids out on the street. No one comes to the apartment building so the peanut butter cups are all mine. I did run out, stopped at Culver's and Border's. The new Peter Pan book "Peter and the Secret of Rundoon" is out, so I had to get a copy. Not too much going on, going to lounge and read tonight.

I've been up since 7:00am, working away at my latest project. Making good time, I'm about half-way done with what I wanted to do today. That'll give me time to do some other things this weekend besides work. Went out to dinner last night, Riviera Maya on KK in Bay View, good mexican food. Then stopped for ice cream. Came home and fell asleep before 10:00pm. I am a wild one.

The blood thinners are working too good, my INR is at 8.1 today. I am going to stop taking them for two days (doctor's orders). Then I will be taking 5mg a day. No shaving for me for a while. Taking a break from data entry and watching Survivor, then back to work for another hour. I will be busy all weekend.

I brought work home with me tonight. Have another large project to get done. This one will keep me busy for quite a while. Ran to Target for some essentials like tooth paste, shaving cream, animal crackers, and Meet the Robinsons DVD. At some point this week I'll find the time to watch the movie. The clerk at the store told me she loved it and has seen it several times. I like hearing good movie reviews. Going to get back to data entry shortly, after I eat. I will take a break to watch America's Next Top Model though. (still hooked on ANTM.)

It's raining out and the temperature is falling. It seems so dreary compared to the weekend. I started going through all the invoices I pulled in Orlando last week. It's going to keep me busy at work for quite awhile. They seem to be finished working on the roof and I was able to park in the lot again. It's so much nicer than parking on the street. Still feeling good, nothing troubling to mention. I will have scans done the first week in November. Until then, I'll just be rambling about things I do.

What an incredible weekend for late October. The weather reminded me of Florida! While I was walking through the zoo today, it seemed just like walking down main street at the Magic Kingdom. Almost. Nothing compares to Disney. I was there for about 6 hours on Monday, got to see the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean, the street parades, ride the Monorail several times, and shop! Lots of fun. The weather turns back to seasonal tomorrow, and I'm back to the routine. Sigh.

I wanted to sleep in this morning, but the repairmen got here early to work on the roof. I'm still parking on the street because of their equipment and a dunpster are in the parking lot. They were supposed to be done by now, but rain has delayed their progress. Hopefully by Tuesday I'll be back in my parking space behind the building.

Well, I'm back home after four days in Orlando Florida. I was able to get to the Magic Kingdom and Downtown Disney in between working. It was a good experience for me, to get out of the office and see how things operate for the company. Aunt Christine and Uncle Doug, Thank you for a wonderful time, it was great to spend time with you while I was there. Thanks Greg and Brad for giving me the opportunity to travel too! I'm feeling fine, seems that my body has settled down and I'm doing well. More on my escapades tomorrow.

I fly out at 8:00am tomorrow. I finished packing and actually shaved tonight. I'm excited about going to Disney. I'm even excited about working in the Orlando area. I will not have access to a computer, so there won't be any posts until I get back on Thursday. I'll keep a log of my activities so I can write about my experiences. Until then.

Not too much going on today, just lounging around. Been reading and watching TV. Earlier I went and got some prescriptions filled and some stuff to take on my business trip next week. I'm looking forward to getting to Florida, warm weather, sun, Disney. I got my clothes picked out, started organizing things and ready to pack. I will actually do that tomorrow, it'll give me something to do besides laying around. Last night I went with Doug to see Char sing with the band, first time in quite a while. To this day, I still get a kick out of hearing her sing. There was a costume party going on, and there were a number of people dressed as clowns. Frightening. Char and I wailed anytime they were around. Too funny. She always makes me laugh.

Blood levels are all normal including platelets. Good news! I am relieved.

It's just downright cold out. Dreary. I'm doing some laundry, and baking some cookies. They started working on the roof of the apartment building today. There's a big dumpster in the parking lot so I have to park on the street for the next several nights. Hopefully this company will repair the roof properly and it won't leak anymore. Funny thing, it's raining right now, I wonder how far they got today.

The weather is about to turn, become seasonal, cool. I've really been enjoying the hot streak, sorry to see it go. I am glad I'm heading down to Florida, for a stint of warm weather. Oh yeah, work too. I keep thinking it's a Disney trip, when it's really a business trip. With a visit to the Magic Kingdom included!

Another wonderful day, warm, sunny. All too soon it'll be blustery and cool. I went shopping earlier today, got The Jungle Book on DVD and some Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. This is a dangerous time of year for me, all the sales on candy are too irresistible. I had lunch with Mom and Dad and played a game of Scrabble with them afterward. For only the third time ever, I won! It was a really close game, with each of us withing points of each other. It was a good game. Now I'm just waiting for the new Simpsons, Family Guy, and American Dad episodes. One more day of great weather and then back to dreary Fall conditions. My trip to Florida is coming at a good time.

I'm about to start my day, getting outside. No specific plans, just going to wander, see where the road takes me. I want to enjoy the beautiful weather while it lasts. My PT/INR is 3.4, so the doctor has dropped my Coumadin to 5mg per day. That is good! Eventually I will stop taking it all together. That is great! Last night Doug and I got out to Bayshore, had food at California Pizza Kitchen and browsed through a couple of shops. It seemed like I was in an entirely different city, I was impressed. (granted I impress easily!)

Tonight I am lounging. The project is wrapping up and the nights and weekends of data entry are done for now. I will be travelling to Orlando October 15th through the 18th. I am excited, have plans all ready for dinner at EPCOT one night and a trip to the Magic Kingdom another night. I finally stopped and had my blood drawn to have my PT/INR checked. I'm so good at procrastinating. The other morning, I hit a van while making a u-turn going to work. The van driver must have thought I was turning into the lot he was coming out of and pulled out and as I was crossing the intersection, our vehicles came into contact. I have nice scratches along the entire length of the drivers side, nothing too bad, just a nice reminder of the incident. Of course the van never stopped. I pulled over and watched it drive away. Good thing it wasn't serious or I'd be extremely irritated. I hate panel vans.

Still working on the project, but am coming to an end, I am tired. Hopefully it should be done by weeks end. Besides from being worn out from all this work, I'm doing well. Not too much going on outside of work right now, so don't have much to say. Once I can lounge nightly, my mind will wander, and I'll have plenty to comment on.

I am actually finished with the stack of paperwork I brought home with me this weekend. I can lounge the rest of the day! I have to run out and get something to eat, otherwise I will be on the couch for the evening. I'm feeling good, really good, no physical problems to lament. So, I need to motivate myself and join a gym. If I don't, I won't get into shape. I'll think about that tomorrow, tonight's meant for lounging.

I wanted to write about what happened a year ago compared to today. I had received a chemotherapy treatment and the hiccups were there, but not much more and it didn't seem like the thing to do. Been busy working on the project, blazed through about 3/4 of the paperwork, tomorrow I'll finish up what I brought home. Nothing too exciting, a lot of typing. The days are nice yet, the nights cool, it isn't Summer anymore. I'll venture out tomorrow and view the world.

It's finally the weekend! I am still bringing work home with me, have loads to data enter, will keep me busy. As soon as this project is done, I will be able to lounge again. I'm going to try and get out for a while tomorrow and Sunday, but it all depends on how productive I am. Tonight I haven't done anything, Doug and I went out to eat and stopped for ice cream, and now I'm just watching TV. I'll be typing away in the morning.

I just made it home when the rain started. A nice, intense thunderstorm. It poured. I brought more work home, been putting in two hours nightly. Going to take a break, forage for some food, then watch Survivor. I'm doing all right, just a little wrought from working so much. I'll rest some over the weekend. Shop too. Need clothes for Orlando, where I'll be heading the week of October 15th for work. Of course I'll have to get in a night at Disney!

Keeping busy with the project from work. I am getting burned out, need to take a night or two off and just lounge. I'm considering joining a gym and starting to get my body in shape. I'm also procrastinating about joining a gym because I do like to lounge.

Here comes the rain and the cooler weather. It's been so beautiful, kind of sorry to see it go. Busy working at home again, this project is so involved and so much yet to do. I'll have to watch TV while plunking away at the computer. I had a great weekend, have been feeling really good. Don't have any doctor appointments for a number of weeks, and no scheduled blood work. It's been a while.

Another beautiful weekend, going to spend sometime outdoors. Celebrating Jody's birthday with a camp out in her backyard! I am going to get to camp this year after all. Couldn't ask for better weather, looking forward to it. All set to go, now I just got to remember how to get to Jodys!

The Hematologist said the indications of reocurrent Hodgkins are not present. My blood counts are up to normal levels, platelets at 87 (getting closer to normal.) The lymphs in question appear to be normal also. There is no conclusive evidence to a relapse or any infection. His recommendation is monitoring and follow ups as scheduled with my Oncologist. Whatever has been suppressing my blood production is no longer present. While unable to identify exactly what the cause was, he is confident that I am on the way to recovery, all blood tests confirm this. (Audible sigh of relief). Thanks Tim and Julia for being with me!

The fog rolled in and it got cooled down. What an interesting evening. Been slaving on a project for work, almost finished, another hour and I should be done, give or take my laziness. Taking a break and watching Survivor China. It hasn't disappointed. Neither did yesterday's premiere of America's Next Top Model. The show's back on, heading to the couch . . .

Tomorrow I have my follow up with the Hematologist.

What a gorgeous night! I love this kind of weather, got my windows wide open. My PT/INR is at 4.5 so the doctor reduced my dosage again! One day I will hopefully not have to take Coumadin. Work is keeping me busy, I'm actually going to be bringing some home with me the next couple of days. Got to make up time I'm using going to all these doctor appointments. One day I will hopefully not have to go on a weekly basis.

I haven't done much today, just went to work. Stopped and got my blood drawn to have my PT/INR checked, needed to have that done. Pretty much the same old routine here, reading and watching TV. I really have been feeling pretty good lately.

Warm days and cool nights. Seems like Fall. The weather promises to get more Summerlike in the next few days, which I prefer. I got out shopping, stopped for coffee with Doug, enjoyed the weekend. Back to work tomorrow. I'm excited about the new television season starting. This week both America's Next Top Model and Survivor premiere. I am a reality show junkie. I get to hear what the Hematologist has to say on Friday. Been feeling really good as of late and all my blood tests have been encouraging.

It's finally the weekend. Of course I want to do 100 different things and will most likely not do any of it. I am attached to my couch, like reading, watching TV, relaxing. I should get out, the sun is shining, but it's early yet. I just may surprise myself and actually get motivated. Who knows, it is the weekend after all.

Thank you everyone who walked with me and Lighting the Night! It was awesome!

Woke up with a sore throat this morning. Grumble grumble. The heat kicked in last night. I fell asleep really early, before 7:30pm. About 10:45pm, I woke to a strobe effect. The Cudahy Police (Four squads, a paddy wagon) and the State Police were arresting someone right out front. I had to get up and look out the window, had to watch. I noticed the smell of heat and the radiator was warm. By 11:30pm the police were gone and I crawled back to the couch and fell back asleep. Then I woke up with a sore throat. Grumble grumble.

The Light the Night walk is coming up! Please meet at 6:00pm on the corner of Prospect and Mason. This is located at the northwest corner of O'Donnell Park. I will have my cell phone with me. The banner is complete, nothing spectacular, which everyone who walks will have to sign. I will be down there by 5:00pm. Get our your walking shoes and let's walk for a great cause!

Lounging today. That's all I have been doing. Reading, watching TV, napping. I need to go grocery shopping, which I will do in a while. I'm enjoying just laying about. Days like this are good for me.

I've been reading and watching another ANTM marathon on TV. Met Kim for coffee for a few hours earlier. Last night I feel asleep before 8:00pm and slept until 2:00am, up for a while then back to sleep until 7:00am. I'm going to have some left overs for dinner and more reading tonight. My couch is my santuary.

It's been a long day. The Hematologist ran 15 different blood tests and reviewed my case with me. While my red and white cells counts have responded very well to treatments, my platelet count remains suppressed. My marrow does not indicate the presence of Hodgkin's. I am not recovering from treatments the way other patients are. There lies the issue. I have another appointment in two weeks, and the Hematologist is going to review the scans to determine whether another lymph biopsy should be done and what node to remove. He feels this would be the best course of action to take at this time. I'm not out of the woods yet. I can only take it one step at a time.

The rain is finally here after a long stretch of beautiful weather. My windows are open and a nice breeze is coming in. Tomorrow I'll be at the Hematologist office. It'll be interesting to hear what they say about my blood. I have been feeling great lately. I've been such a homebody, I think I need to get out and about this weekend. Of course the pull of the couch will be tough to contend with!

Back to work today after a nice three day weekend. I had work to do to keep me busy. Tonight I'm lazy, just lounging on the couch. I really should go grocery shopping but not motivated in the least. I'm feeling good, no issues to complain or worry about. I'm off to the couch to read.

Yesterday I went out for breakfast with Mom, Dad, Tim, Julia, and Dave. Then I went shopping with Tim and Julia. I spent enough money and got some nice things. The outlet mall was crowded. We spent a good number of hours wandering the shops. We went to Red Lobster for dinner. Afterwards, I came home and proceeded to fall asleep. I was woken up about 2:00am by shouting outside. There were two police cars with lights flashing subduing a suspect right in front of the building. A short time later an ambulance arrived and took the guy away. I wonder what happened. I watched until the police left, then went back to the couch and slept. Today I'm going to the baseball game with my dad. It's been a good long weekend overall.

It's been a nice day, got out and enjoyed the beautiful weather. Did some laundry, been reading, and watching another marathon of America's Next Top Model (yes, I am warped). Feeling great, buoyant. I have been drinking 72 ounces of water a day since Monday. Your body really does need water to function. It's a good habit to get into. Tomorrow promises to be another great day, I'm going to get out and enjoy it and go shopping with Tim and Julia to the mall in Kenosha. I want to buy some new clothes!

I had my INR checked yesterday and it's at 5.0, so the doctor is lowering my Coumadin to bring the level down. I think that is great news, my blood is working properly. Maybe I am finally getting to a point where my body can manage without medical intervention. I'm getting excited about Light the Night, Thank you everyone who is committing to the walk and those who donated too! It's going to be a fun evening! I'm glad it's a holiday weekend and an extra day off even though it's the unofficial end to Summer. I like warm weather!!!

The Light the Night Walk for Leukemia and Lymphoma is exactly two weeks away. I would like everyone who is going to walk with me to get registered. Once I know who will be joining MattAtomic, I'll be able to plan a meeting spot for everyone the night of the walk.

Here's the link again: http://teams.lightthenight.org/MattAtomic

From hot and muggy weather to cool and humid in 24 hours. I like Summer, not dreary Fall. Stopped at Target tonight, bought a few things to keep me entertained, I'm such a homebody. Orderred luggage from Disney online too. Charcoal gray with a Mickey insignia. I finally own actual luggage! Feeling pretty good, no physical aches or pains, no mysterious fevers or night sweats either. I started a new book, so I'm off to the couch to read a few more chapters.