Chemo cancelled............

Why is it such a letdown, when you're already for the chemo poison to be slowly dripped into your body?  It's like you're all dressed up and no where to go.  Like you psyched yourself up for this mess to happen and then they take it away from you.  Like is this cancer going to get a jump start because you missed this session?  I can tell you it just does.  There is absolutely nothing wrong, just a precaution against worse things happening if they went ahead with the chemo.

Platelets were fine, white blood count was fine, Alk Phos was 108, remember that was the number that they wanted to see lower ( under 125 ).  All good right!!!!!!!  Well now they found this new number, they had been pointing it out on the blood work print outs for some time, but it was always good.

Neutrophils  normal 2.5 to 8 range, today it was 0.9.  It has been from 1.7 to over 5.5.  And, why are they important?

Since white blood cells, or neutrophils, are the body’s main defense against infection, neutropenia can lead to fevers and infections.

 more in a minute.

Now, I suppose you want to know what I did for that minute?  My honey had a very nice plate of nacho'es prepared and I needed to eat them while they were hot,  yum, yum, I'm full.

From another web site:

Chemotherapy can weaken your natural defenses

Chemotherapy (also known as chemo) works by killing fast-growing cancer cells. Unfortunately, chemotherapy drugs can't always tell the difference between cancer cells and fast-growing healthy cells, including red and white blood cells. As a result, one of the potential side effects of many types of chemotherapy drugs can be a low white blood cell count.¹ Chemo that causes this side effect is described as myelosuppressive (my-eh-low-suh-PRESS-iv), because it suppresses your production of white blood cells. A low number of a specific type of white blood cells called neutrophils—also known as neutropenia (new-tro-pee-nee-uh)—can put some patients at risk for infections and may interrupt chemo treatment.¹ In fact, complications associated with a low white blood cell count are the most common causes of dose reductions or delays in chemotherapy.² A sufficient white blood cell count may enable your doctors to administer chemotherapy according to their treatment schedule.

So it was just a precaution, I'm fine.  Just take 2 weeks of chemo off, and let the body rebuild itself.  My next appt with Onc. and chemo is Jan. 13th.

Happy New Year to all, God Bless you, Captain

Doing Just Great

Still working, I really have no problems other than mental thoughts every so often.  Made Chili for the babe and me last night, just had a bowl for lunch.  Tonight the owners of the flower shop where the babe works are taking us out to eat catfish at a local, well known, almost famous catfish restaurant.  That will be nice except I will miss Notre Dame kick some booty.

Speaking of the babe.  I have to tell you that she doesn't really like "the babe"  She thinks of Babe the giant steer in the old Paul Bunyon story when we were kids.  I only call her that because of her best friend from childhood who is on me all the time for calling her my wife.  I can't think of anything else, maybe you could give me some assistance with a different name.  I've always called her my wife, for whatever reason.  Oh, I know the reason, another day, another story.

Thanks for all your prayers, although this year has been different to say the least, all is well, and things are moving forward for the better, and not the worse.  I'm happy, but sometimes emotional very easily.  Live has certainly changed but God is still here with his healing hand on my shoulder.  I'm sure of it.

Have a Happy New Year, and Good Health to all.  Will see you in chemo tomorrow.

God bless, Captain

The Day After

The presents are all opened, the tree is bare, in hopes that St Nick only comes once a year...............

Just made that up, gona have to stop watching MTV and those rappers, hahahahaha

Hope all of your had a nice, relaxing Christmas without much hustle.  The family was great, the food was great.  I did fine, I'm fighting a cold and yesterday I just felt weak in my legs and arms, like achy muscles, today better.  Getting ready to buy the babe a breakfast somewhere here in town.

Have a great Day, God Bless, Captain

Chemo is Dripping

Blood work all came back ok. Working thru chemo now. Probably another hour and half. Stopping at Honey baked ham on the way home see what they have left, mb quick last minute shopping, not more than 45 min worth

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and healthy, Happy New Year. Thank you all for your support and prayers as we battle thru this disease. God has his healing hand on my shoulder and good things are happening.

God Bless you all, Captain and babe.

Monday of Christmas week

Not many shopping days left til we must present the presents and be happy.  Thoughts of prayers go out to my nephew who fell off his roof putting up some Christmas lights.  He broke his lower right leg, ankle in 2 places.  He will now have a life of setting off all security booths at every airport in the world.  And I say  """ What were you thinkin' """   He had surgery last Tuesday and they placed some metal plates and screwed it all back together.  He is fine, but has a long road to recovery.

I'm doing fine, getting ready to walk, Yes walk, to the bank and the pharmacy downtown again.  All this exercise is making me hungry.  Then to order a few more things online for Christmas, I know shipping and yes, it will get here in time.

So Have a Merry Christmas, and we will talk again b4 the big day.  God Bless, Captain

Operation Fish Attack is A Go

Sorry, I guess you want to know what I'm talking about now.  It is not a hallucination, or "chemo brain" as some have called it. 

My son and I are going to Key West, FL for a deep, deep , deep sea fishing trip.  Just a long week end unless there is more than an inch of snow and we can't get a flight back to Indiana in mid February.  lol

How did this happen you say?  My brother and his sons live in the Ft Myers area of Florida and so the plane makes a direct flight there.  We have free ( I'm thinkin' ) lodging there.  On Sat. morning we will have transport to Key West, about a 3 1/2 hour drive by land.  We have the Fisherman's room arranged at the hotel there.  Don't know what that means, maybe it smells like fish and they can't get it out of the carpet.  From there my nephew's ( code name Sidewinder )  brother-in-law ( code name Boyscout ) who is a licensed fishing charter boat captain has a deep, deep, deep sea boat ready, fueled and ready to leave the dock.  We are going for a record catching fish of some kind.  I don't even know what we're going to try and catch.  Surprise, sssuurrrrpriseeeeee.  Look what's at the end of the line.

Should be a lot of fun, get some sun, livin and lovin with family, and maybe catch some fun fish.

Off chemo today, next Friday is meet with Oncologist and chemo again.

Today I got some exercise.  Anybody who fell out of their chair please return to the full upright position.  I walked uptown, went to the bank, then went and ate biscuits and gravy,  I know, I know, ruined the walk but who cares.  Live everyday.  Of course I had to walk back, don't you dare think I hitched a ride somewhere.

Thanks to all for prayers and positive thoughts,  remember the Reason for the Season,  God Bless, Captain

 

Hustle and Bustle of the Holidays

Has hit us like all others.  The babe is getting ready to leave me today and get some Christmas done.  I have to get a package up to the Post Office, give them a little money to support their efforts.  She is meeting the daughter for lunch while out on the town.

I'm doing most of my shopping online this year.  It comes right to your door, no fighting to find a parking space, no traffic, no people rushing you, loving it.  I ordered some stuff from Walmart on Sunday and 2 out of 3 boxes were delivered yesterday on Tuesday.  I know UPS will be busy this week and next.  Then for 1 week we will be looking for things to do.  That's the week between Christmas and New Year's.

I'm feeling fine, do not worry about me at this time, just the overall healing process is still needed, but I do not act nor feel like I have cancer.  I'm working just fine, strength is ok, ribs are almost healed.  We just pray for total healing from above.

Love you all a lot, thanks for all you do.  God Bless, Captain

I Must Write Something

Something.  Looks like a warm up for this week.  Maybe I'll be a weatherman when I grow up.  Can miss the prediction with out any fall out from the boss.  Viewers understand. Money should be good. 

Ok, back to life as it is.  All things are proceeding on the good side of anyone having cancer.  This week is off and chemo free.  I go back to the Oncologist on 12/23, and chemo afterwards.  Have more ???? to ask him.  I'm feeling fine, yesterday I didn't have much energy, and laid around, and kept falling asleep.

Today is our daughter's "42nd" Birthday, where does time go?  It seems like just yesterday I was spanking her for something or the other.  I've pushed her in the fishpond once trying to get her to straighten up.*  They just won't listen.  Always asking for something, heck, I got a call this morning.

Anyways,  " Happy Birthday Honey, may you have a great day and many more..." What else can I do but post it on the web for all to see.

Thanks for the thoughts and prayers, God Bless, Captain

* The fishpond incident was incorrect as posted above, she fell in the fishpond and I was there to save her life.  Like she still gets the story wrong.

At chemo

All is well, blood work is all good. Alk phos #117, platelets 196, drip, drip as we speak. Going out to eat lasanga tonight with old friends.

Feeling good, probably going to work tonight. Have moved to job with much lighter work. Did I say I have 2 cracked ribs? On the road to recovery, working thru the pain.

Did I say I'm gaining weight, drs. r happy, babe is happy, I moan getting on the scales. I'm really joking here, as I'm only 7 #'s up, not like I've gained 25 pounds.

Thanks for the prayers, its working, God Bless, Captain

Do You Love me.............

Got you there............  Hey I just found out about this site, Sue is a friend of mine fighting this same deadly cancer.  She posted under comments a couple of days ago and I just found out she is having a fundraiser for Cholangiocarcinoma cancer.  On April 14th, of 2012 we're bowling for her, and ME and all the others fighting this rare disease, that gets so little research dollars.  All the money raised goes to the foundation, none to Sue, none to me or anything else. 

I know you all can't be in Indy to bowl, but here is a website that has been set up

Fundraiser for My Cancer

Please consider this option as a way to help us all fighting this disease.  As Jimmy V says, it may not save my life, but it may save the life of my children, grandchildren, friends and others.  

" Cancer may take away all my physical abilities, but it can not take away my mind, it can't take away my friends, and it can't take away the love I have for you all as I and others battle this disease. "

Thanks in advance, God Bless you all, Captain/Grover

Good Week End

Feeling fine, Sunday felt chills and just sore legs, today all gone.  Saw the grand kids both Sat. and Sunday.  Got a new car on Saturday, I think I was in some coma after spending 2-3 hours with them, yeah, yeah that's the story, and I'm stickin to it.  At least with the babe. 

Got a 2012 Honda Accord on lease.  Zero down, no money at signing, 35 monthly payments, then do it again.  Last Monday we sold the Impala.  You know how hard it is to have 2 drivers and only 1 car.  We had to really plan and hustle to get things done.  And that was only 1 week.  No new tires needed, no battery, just 4-5 oil changes for the next 3 years.  I'm sure that in 3 years, some auto company will be offering zero down again. 

If any of you acutally go to the cancer page that I posted on Saturday, I post under the name of Grover, FYI.

I just don't want anyone to know who I really am.  Now if I just hit the lottery, I'm already set up living anonymously  ....lol.

Thanks for your prayers, God Bless, Captain

Sorry, I missed yesterday

Liver is functioning great, Alk Phos number was 111, still within the normal range, platelets, and all else were good.  Chemo went fine, got to sit and talk with Cindy from Monrovia who is battling the same disease and we're both using the same Dr's at IU.  Both diagnosed about the same time so we're like buddy's fighting this together to conquer and win against this evil disease.

The Dr's ( Oncologist and surgeon ) have discussed my case, looking at past CT scans and have decided that once again I'm not normal.  First to even get such a rare disease, and now my insides are put together in such away that the Liver pump is not really an option.  Something about needing to place to put the pump inside the body, and the way the arteries and veins are hooked up won't allow it to operate properly.  And that is OK with me, because I really wasn't to hip on the idea at this time.  I mean the chemo is working and the tumor is shrinking why change now?

But they are cautiously optimistic on some future possibilities.  I don't want to even talk about them now, because of the chance of setbacks down the road.  We are trying to temper excitement with reality.

But know this, God is working with me every step of the way, and healing is taking place that just is not expected with this cancer.  Of course this cancer has it's own website and discussion board, I'm talking with people who have the cancer, with children who's parents have this cancer, and parents trying to help their children through this battle.  It is very emotional because we have recently lost 4 people who were diagnosed just this summer like myself.  I'm now reading about a 46 year man, diagnosed this summer and getting ready to go into Hospice.  It is not a good cancer to have.

And that is why I have to praise God and thank him for being with me and the healing that has occurred.  I truly believe we are seeing a miracle take place here on God's timetable.  I don't know why me?  But, if you sometimes have problems believing there is a God out there that works in your everyday live, think of me, and what is happening.

If you want to follow more, the website is  http://www.cholangiocarcinoma.org/index.htm
go to patient support and choose discussion boards.

Sorry if I got religious on some of you, but I'm here today because God is watching over me.

Thanks for your prayers, God Bless you all, Captain

Thursday of Babe's party

All things are under control, the women who are helping with the cooking will be here starting around 1 PM, then the house will start smelling wonderful.  The floors have been mopped and tables dusted, I think we are ready.  I must remember to start a fire in the fireplace for the girls.  I'm ready to spend the night in the bedroom with a TV and a book.  Hopefully the book is good.

How about them Indiana Hoosiers ( IU basketball team for you out of state'ers )  Beat NC State last night, I know they will lose soon, mb Kentucky, but it is exciting again to see them starting their comeback.

I know I said I was fine yesterday, and I am with the cancer and all.  You know an article I read this AM said that my cancer strikes 2 out of 100,000 people, and ain't I special, 1 of the 2.  It is also 99% fatal, but the treatments are getting better and are encouraging to us 2 people. lol, ( about the 2 people not the better treatments. )

But I'm having trouble with my ribs.  I smacked them good about 2 weeks ago, of course it was on the right side right above the liver.  But then on Thanksgiving I was carrying in some firewood and really had a ligament or something snap out of place and then back into place, but it was so painful.  I can only imagine that these ligaments lay side by side, kind of like tightly holding your fingers side by side, and then one finger slips up and across the next one beside it, then returns to it's position.  It just tears up that area with soreness for a while.  To all those thinking the worse, it has happened before and I'm really sure that it has nothing to do with cancer spreading somewhere else.  So no panicking please.

I went to work Monday and Tuesday nights and on the second night had really re-injured the ribs again by lifting heavy stuff.  I took last night off, and tonight and Friday because of chemo.  Hopefully with 5 days of resting Monday will be OK again, or I will push for light work.

After getting this disease, it was really hard watching Jimmy V week on ESPN and hearing his speech again.  My eyes were definitely tearing up, actually for some reason, this week has been emotional anyways.

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers, will talk again tomorrow from chemo.

God Bless you all, Captain

Still here, resting

There are 5 ladies in my kitchen cooking for tomorrow night.  Hard to even make a sandwich.  I have a coupon for Subway, think I may make a run out there.

Feeling good, see the Oncologist Friday and chemo afterwards.  All is good.

Thanks for your continued prayers, God Bless, Captain

Christmas Decorations

Just a few things left to do, but this was done since Friday morning, and around Cookie Day, til last night.

2 pictures of Kitchen window sill, have 3 windows same, a friend made these gingerbread people.

Next one is from the front door looking straight into the house, down the left side of room, Library table is filled with Santa's and notice greenery over the side door, antique mantel in background with the Angel's deco.

Next is pretty much standing in the same position looking at the Christmas tree down the right side of the room ( tree not totally finished yet ) Dicken's houses on the buffet, and more greenery around the double doorway.

Next is still standing and looking to the right into the Living area, with the edge of tree on the left, the entertainment center and the working fireplace.

This one is a closer pic of the top of the entertainment center, with Santa in his sled taking off over the corner, and trees with snow, snowmen and a couple of houses.  Notice the stockings hanging from the greenery.

 This is the Fireplace mantel, with decor, more stockings.

This is a corner cabinet to the right of the front door with primarily snowmen.

You might be saying why do this in one week end????  The babe hosts around 22 women from her Home Ec club this Thursday night for dinner at the house, and of course it all has to be done by then.  Those are my orders, nothing before Thanksgiving and done in one week.

Enjoy, I'm going to have another cookie and rest.  God Bless, Captain

Ps, remember you can click on any picture and enlarge for detail.

Really Tired Last night

My hour outside took 4 hours at least.  The greenery around the porch railing had way too many lights and sections of lights that were out.  Of course I installed it then flipped the switch and saw the problem.  I looked around the house because I thought we had some new lights here, but not to be found.  So I started removing the old lights from the greenery.  Ran to Wal-Mart and yes they did have lights.

I had no idea how many lights were used before, so I bought 10 boxes of 100 light sets, I wasn't going to make another trip.  Luckily, it was a warm day for Indiana.  Then spent another hour placing the new lights into the previously installed greenery.  Walla, it worked, by now it was around 3 PM, felt like 6 PM.

The ladies were done with their cookie baking and were collecting their stuff to leave.  But the cookies and chocolate covered pretzels were really good as I walked past the table full of sweet stuff to eat.  Pause...............  I had to actually get up and leave my chair to get some of my favorite cancer fighting supplements.  1 Santa iced cookie, 1 Bell iced cookie, 1 chocolate chip cookie, 1 Mexican wedding cake, and 3 small chocolate pretzels.  While drinking green tea...lol  mb a small milk chaser in a minute.  I just remembered the caramel covered haystacks, I can't find any.  Dang, it.

So anyways, the outside is done.  Now to resume the inside.  The greenery over 3 doors was already done on Friday ( no lights ).  Now to do greenery in the windows with lights.  Greenery hanging from the fireplace mantle, greenery on top of the entertainment center along with creative decorations, all with lights.  Have to get the fresh Christmas tree out of the back of the Explorer and get it set up.  It was harvested on Friday when the temp. was 58 degrees.  Get it lit and the babe will take over placing ornaments, etc. on the tree.  Then babe will place the Snowman collection, and the Santa collection.  She did the kitchen last night while I was napping while watching Alabama put a whupping on Auburn.  The kitchen has a Gingerbread theme.  I will try to post some pictures, we love this time of the year.  Our house looks like you've walked into a very nice country store, not the local Dollar store.  I forgot the Manger, the small Dickens village on the buffet ( her favorite Holiday movie ), the Angels over the other fireplace mantle.  Guess we better get to work, it all has to be done by Weds.

Just got that glass of milk, and need to get on with the decorating and somewhat more of a healthy breakfast.

Luv you all, God Bless you this Holiday season, and Be Safe, Captain

Saturday AM After Turkey Day

I'm doing fine, don't worry about me.  I ate so much on Thursday that my fat belly kept me from reaching the keyboard thus keeping from doing any updates.......lol.  Just kidding, actually weight is lower than last Sunday when I had gained the 5 pounds. 

The babe and I had everything ready and the guests ( family ) started arriving.  My loving daughter showed up with her husband and the grand kids, bringing stuffed olives for all to eat.  She helped out a lot even washing dishes afterwards.  I have to say that cause after her last visit she whined about me not saying she helped with anything.  My blog was all about her husband and the grand kids, like she just sat on her hiney and watched TV or something.  So there you go darling, I told them how you helped, some cooking, some cleaning up, and in general a loving, caring and HELPful daughter.

We had 20 people here for turkey and ham, corn, barbecue green beans, sweet potato casserole, 2 types of dressing, mashed potatoes, a vegetable casserole, cole slaw, strawberry pretzel salad, a green foam salad, home made yeast rolls, cranberry sauce, and 2 pumpkin pies, a pecan pie and pumpkin praline cake.  I think that was enough, as the leftovers are just as good.

As I speak now, the female members of the family are showing up to make Christmas cookies.  My grandmother P used to make cookies for us all during the holidays and when she passed on they thought they should keep up the tradition.  Today is the day on my house.  So I will be snacking soon on fresh cookies.

The decorations are going up, weather today in the 50's so I will get the outside done, probably take around 1 hour, so not a lot to me done.  We decorate with taste, not 15 blow up animals, a Colt's snowman, etc.  More of that country look, greenery and lights on the porch railing, greenery over the door.  Done. Oh, a few bows placed around.

Got to go.  Thanks to all, and God Bless, Captain

Thanksgiving Thoughts

WHAT HAPPENS IN HEAVEN WHEN WE PRAY? 



I dream't that I went to Heaven and an angel was showing me around. We walked side-by-side inside a large workroom filled with angels. My angel guide stopped in front of the first section and said, "This is the Receiving Section. Here, all petitions to God said in prayer are received."

I looked around in this area, and it was terribly busy with so many angels sorting out petitions written on voluminous paper sheets and scraps from people all over the world.

Then we moved on down a long corridor until we reached the second section. 

The angel then said to me, "This is the Packaging and Delivery Section. Here, the graces and blessings the people asked for are processed and delivered to the living persons who asked for them." I noticed again how busy it was there. There were many angels working hard at that station, since so many blessings had been requested and were being packaged for delivery to Earth. 

Finally at the farthest end of the long corridor we stopped at the door of a very small station. To my great surprise, only one angel was seated there, idly doing nothing. "This is the Acknowledgment Section," my angel friend quietly admitted to me. He seemed embarrassed.

"How is it that there is no work going on here?" I asked.

"So sad," the angel sighed. "After people receive the blessings that they asked for, very few send back acknowledgments."

"How does one acknowledge God's blessings? "I asked.

"Simple," the angel answered. Just say, "Thank you, Lord."

"What blessings should they acknowledge?" I asked.

"If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy, and if you get this on your own computer, you are part of the 1% in the world who has that opportunity."

"If you woke up this morning with more health than illness.. You are more blessed than the many who will not even survive this day."

"If you have never experienced the fear in battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation... You are ahead of 700 million people in the world." 

"If you can attend a church without the fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death you are envied by, and more blessed than, three billion people in the world."

"If you can hold your head up and smile, you are not the norm, you're unique to all those in doubt and despair......."

"Ok," I said. "What now? How can I start?"

The Angel said, "If you can read this message, you just received a double blessing in that someone was thinking of you as very special and you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world who cannot read at all."

Have a good day, count your blessings, and if you care to, pass this along to remind everyone else how blessed we all are..........

ATTN: Acknowledge Dept. 
"Thank you Lord, for giving me the ability to share this message and for giving me so many wonderful people with whom to share it."


Have a Great Thanksgiving, we each have lots to be Thankful for; I'm especially thankful for each and every one of you.


God Bless you all, Captain

Doin' Fine

Needed to give you something to think about as I haven't written in a few days.  I'm fine and dandy, no side effects that I know of anyways.  Gained 5 lbs since weighing in for chemo on Friday to Sunday morning, what's up with that?  So the appetite must be there.  Now must curb it for the meal coming up on Thursday.

The babe has been cleaning like crazy in the kitchen, everything just sparkles and I hate to get anything out of the cabinets.  All the silverware has been cleaned, some drawers emptied and redone.  I can't find the ibuprofen in the middle of the night, what's up with that?  We are expecting 20 family members to show up for the Thanksgiving meal.  And we eat at one time, not showing up at different times.  We sit down and eat together.  This year will be special as my only Uncle in the world is flying in from Biloxi, MS to join us.  He is a young 88, but a little unsteady on his feet at times, so we are praying for a safe flight and an uneventful one.

It will be a fun time to get together and time to reminisce for sure.  ( sure glad most words show up on spell check )  Then Friday it's turn the house into Christmas, as I'm not allowed to do any decorating until after the turkey day, even if it's 65 outside on Weds.  But it's supposed to in the 50's over the weekend.

So there you have an update, I'm sure we'll talk again before the big day.

God Bless you all, Captain

Hooked up at chemo

Started late today, 11:30. It takes me awhile, I decided since I work til 4 am, why do you schedule your chemo for 9 am, duh????? Now I got this down.

Blood work was good. Platelets were 211, alk phos still 105, normal is 25 to 125 in case you forgot. So all is good, praying for continued healing.

Just thinking today about healing and attitude. I have chemo scheduled for 12/30 and we should bring in party hats and horns for New Years eve. FUN AND ALL. Then I said " are we not taking this seriously? " , I mean we're dealing with cancer here. But then I said "maybe that's why we're having some success, because the cancer knows we're not scared of it." Just wondering.

Well, probably about another 20 mins and we're out of here for 2 weeks.

Thanks for your listening ears and your shoulders to lean on. God Bless, Captain

You Will Shed Tears Today

I'm so sorry, but this brought tears to my eyes last year when I used it in a lesson with my high school youth at church, b4 I had cancer.

I'm crying now as I remembered it and am posting it for you all.  I know it will touch you, but also mean a lot to you.

Never Give Up

Thanks for being there for me to lean on, God Bless, Captain

Stork Fighting on My Roof

I've been away for a few days trying to intelligently comprehend what I saw on my roof the other day, and what I had to do afterwards.

You'll be glad to know that I walked to the Post Office yesterday, the rain was over, still kind of balmy and I got some exercise, yeh............  Well as I was within 1 block of our house I noticed this large bird flying overhead, kind of like circling the area.  I was a little confused, first by the size of the bird, and second what was that hanging from it's beak.  First thing I thought of was some large bird migrating south for the winter and trying to eat it's prey while flying.  But no it just kept circling the block, and I soon lost track of it, because I was watching traffic.

As I approached my house I happened to glance up at the roof and there was the bird standing beside my chimney, still with that thing in it's mouth.  I looked around for something to throw in that direction in an effort to chase it away.  I found some sticks on the ground that had been dislodged from the trees during the recent storms and picked up a few.  Finally when I got the throwing range dialed in I started hiting the chimney and the roof in the area of that bird.  It would not leave the roof.  It would fly above the chimney to a height of about 15 to 20 feet and then return.  I then noticed that the thing in it's mouth was not some prey, but a blue cloth hanging there with some type of a bundle inside the cloth.

Now I was getting worried.  I got out the ladder, because I was going to have to climb up on the roof and shew it away, or find out what the heck was going on.  You know how that goes, first I had to clean up part of the garage to get the ladder out of there.  Then get it set up against a lower part of the roof so I could actually climb up on the roof.  As I got up there and got closer to the bird I finally noticed that it was a stork, and of course it couldn't be bringing anything to this house.  I mean What the HEY!!!!

The stork was by now somewhat agitated and wary of me, but I was able to talk calmly and it seemed to make a difference in the storks demeanor.  As I slowly worked my way closer to the stork, I noticed a small piece of paper attached to the side of the cloth pouch.  I finally got close enough to read the letters that were on the paper, and it was for an address 4 blocks south of me and 2 blocks west.  HOLY COW was I getting the heebie jeebies until then.  I told the stork to turn in her old GPS and get a new one and sent her on her way......................  The end.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA, did I have you going for awhile.....

Of course I made that all up, well, I did really walk to the Post Office.  I'm doing great and haven't had anything to post so I had to let you know I'm still here and doing fine.  I'm still trying to figure out if I can make it has a writer when I can't do anything else.  Still have a sense of humor, have a nice day.

God Bless, Captain 

PS, The Dr. said we are moving in the right direction, keep doing what we're doing.  So keep the prayers and thought coming when you get a chance.  And I thank you and my family thanks you.

Now...The real story

Sorry it took me awhile to get my thoughts together, but here it goes.  As you know the CT scans reviled tumor shrinkage, the right side of my liver had what they call satellite tumors ( small tumors, maybe the size of big marbles ) when we started down this journey.  They can not be seen on the current scan, but that does not mean they are gone, just that the technology doesn't show them.  They most likely are still there even the size of the head of ball point pen.  The left lobe still showed a tumor, but much smaller than the original one.  We looked at both scans, the one taken in June and the one taken on 11/9.  I told him I was from the Show me state of Missouri.  So the chemo is working, but I still have cancer and probably always will.  But as I stated in the quick update, in only 40% of this type of cancer does the chemo even work.  So I guess we have bought more time on this earth.  Perhaps something new will be discovered to treat this cancer.

Also my blood work is good and the liver is functioning properly and we're talking about the Chemo pump again.  The Oncologist and the Surgeon are going to put there heads together and discuss options.  Including the one that says..."this seems to be working fine why change it?"  If we go for the pump it would be after the first of the year.  We're talking about a 4 hour operation, 6-8 weeks of recovery. 2 incisions would be made in my abdomen, and a 4 oz. pump would be placed in the left side and then connected via a tube to the liver.  Basically I would have port, the size of a hockey puck, that they would fill with chemo that would last 2 weeks.  Then that would be pumped for that 2 week period directly into the liver.  Then a visit to IU for removal of leftover chemo fluid and put new in.  The chemo would have no affect on my body, because we are only killing stuff in the liver, and not over the entire body like is being done presently.

And or course in some people the pumps works great others, just so,so.  So can they provide any evidence of the success rate for all this pain and recovery?

But that is in the future, today is today.  I'm feeling fine and dandy.  Going to watch the Colts till they fall behind 14 to nothing, then see what else is on TV.

Thanks for all your prayers and thoughts, we don't know God's timetable for answering prayers, he also talks of patience.

God bless, Captain

quick update

Very, very good news. Tumor is shrinking. Only 40% using chemo on this cancer see results. And my tumor is shrinking. Open to other options in the future. Alk phos down to 105. More later.

God is good, Captain

Scan was fine, results tomorrow

Scan part was a no brainer, I just had to lay there and let the machine do all the work, and watch the insurance pay out another $ 3000.  Thank Goodness for insurance, or I'd be on the streets by now.  The contrast part is always crazy, as you feel a hot flush from your head to your toes.

I'm optimistic about the results.  When we started this journey I could take my fingers and run them vertically on my abdomen right under my right rib cage and most definitely feel a hardness and a lump to that area.  At this time it is mostly gone, I don't want to say gone, but mostly gone.  It is soft again, the abdomen compresses as I run my fingers and hand in the area.  Most of the tenderness is gone, I can eat again without 3 hours of discomfort.

So yes, I'm expecting good news, NOT that the cancer is gone, but that the liver is not swollen like it was.  Of course this also means, I'm setting myself up for some possible bad news just to knock me down from the top of this roller coaster ride.  I choose to think positively and take the other when it occurs.

Will be letting you all know ASAP.  Maybe around 11AM will be posting.

Thanks for your continued prayers, let's not forget others,  God Bless, Captain

I asked for strength

                                         I asked for strength.
                     God gave me difficulties to make me strong.
                                         I asked for wisdom.
                              God gave me problems to solve.
                                        I asked for prosperity.
                         God gave me brawn and brain to work.
                                         I asked for courage.
                           God gave me dangers to overcome.
                                         I asked for patience.
            God placed me in situations where I was forced to wait.
                                         I asked for love.
                     God gave me troubled people to help.
                                         I asked for favors.
                               God gave me opportunities.
                               I received nothing I wanted.
                             I received everything I needed.
         
                       Today is the first day of the rest of your life!

With acknowledgement and thanks to Lainey on my cancer support group page.

I don't need to say more, God Bless, Captain

Picture of Pants

I have mentioned on here a long time ago about taking all of you with me for support when I go to the oncologist or any other cancer treatment.  But I have never told you or shown a picture, so I thought it was about time.

I came up with the idea to wear a pair of light colored pants ( purchased at Goodwill ) with my family, friends and prayer partners signing them.  That way you all are going with me every time to remind of your love and prayers.  I have 2 pairs that I have decided never to wash as they may start fading.

By wearing these I also have the opportunity to witness for our healing God and Father, because people ask about them, and I get the chance to explain the reason behind the signatures.  People have been touched ( have no idea how much ) and very supportive of the idea.

So here is 1 pair front and back.

OH, these were taken on the Friday before Halloween, so I had on my skeleton shirt, it was pretty easy to show the Dr. where I was hurting...........lol

Just wanted to share that you mean a lot to me and the babe.

Thanks for your prayers and positive thoughts, Captain

Sunday after local trip

We went to northern Indiana to see the Sand Hill Cranes migration ( they land and rest ) as they head south to FL and GA for the winter.  These are 5 ft tall, long necked cranes very beautiful.  The dept of natural resources has set up a viewing stand to observe and it is something as hundreds come in to land and feed on the open fields.  There were also 30-40 deer grazing in the field.  Very nice day, but I was tired.

A picture is worth a thousand words

I had this one sitting on a railing so I could rest for a minute.  She loves to be carried on the shoulders, piggyback or in my arms.  I told her she needed to loose about 50 lbs.  She only weighs 45, so I was pretty rough on her.

This is the little one, now 3, with dad, coming down the steps from the observation tower.

Have a great week end. CT scan on Weds.

Thanks for all you do, God Bless, Captain

All is well

Just a rougher week end, but we're cool.  Got the leaves picked up, the grass mowed and the babe is starting to clean the kitchen for Thanksgiving.  Now I know that didn't sound so good, but I mean she cleans. 

Last night she got all new venicion blinds,( now that's a hard word to spell )  on the box they call them Mini vinyl blinds. Washed the windows inside and out and put it all back together.  That's part 1.

Anyways, things are progressing, didn't want to leave you in the dark.

Thanks for the thoughts and prayers, God Bless, Captain

After the week end

Maybe I lied a little about all is good.  The week end was more uncomfortable than I thought while living through it.  Nothing big, just constipation, aches, esophagus acting up, didn't feel like eating, I guess because of all that.  Guess I didn't recognize it until Monday when I started to feel much better.  Oh well, it's a up and down ride I'm on here.

This is the schedule for those who want to know.  No chemo Friday, I'm off, then another CT scan on Weds the 9th of November to gauge the progress.  I will get the results of the scan on Friday the 11th while meeting with the oncologist, then Chemo after that, and I'm sure back on the same schedule, 2 Fridays of chemo with 1 off.

Today I moved the leaves out to the street again and then mowed the grass hopefully for the last time this fall.  I hear the town leaf sucker upper coming down the street so maybe they will be gone yet today.  Never fear, there are move leaves on the trees so that project is not done.

My babe's sister had her knee replacement surgery yesterday and so far so good.  They completed the job and she was in recovery.  I assume she is now in her room.  Then probably around Thurs or Fri she will go to rehab for 3 weeks before returning home.

Thanks for all your prayers for her, me and others in need of God's healing hand.  God Bless, Captain

Sunday morning after Chemo

All is good in cool Indiana, but no snow on the ground.  Friday after chemo, had another sleepy bout.  Got home and went to bed around 4 PM and slept til 8 PM, watched the World Series and went back to bed til around 8:30 Sat. morning.  Then I was pretty good, pulled up the tomato plants and placed them in the garbage pick up, took a couple of fall-asleep naps in the recliner with college football on TV, and slept a good 9 hours last night.  No nausea, hair is still on my body.  All is pretty good considering.

Going to rake a few leaves and go see the grand kids.  Will help them carve their pumpkins and eat some soup it seems.

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers, God Bless, Captain

drip station going

11:15 am. Blood work results good, chemo drugs going in as I type. Platelets 248, all phos is 130.

Under 2 blankets can't get warm today. More later.

Captain

Updates and pics

Rainy and cooler in Indiana today , didn't hit the lottery so I can't just go back south, uuuuggggghhhh.

Very nice in and around the Smokey mountains.  Spent Monday in Cades Cove, saw wild turkeys ( just a few days left boys ) and a wild bear.  Yes, I was out in the open with this bear, no fences in between, just about 35 other people doing the same thing ( taking a picture ).  Yes, the bear could have charged us at any moment, but I just have to out run the slowest person there.  The bear was digging the ground behind a fallen tree, either looking for food or digging a trench for hibernation.  For the most part he didn't notice us people, or could care less.

This next picture is of another wild thing playing on another fallen tree.

The next picture is just of the area in a manner similar to 1810.

We ( the babe and her sister babe ) took a picnic lunch and had a very nice time.  We drove into and through Gatlinburg and made one stop in Pigeon Forge before heading home. 

Her sister is having knee replacement surgery on Monday, Oct. 31, and she didn't want to leave the car is the reason that we didn't really stop other than to eat the picnic.  Please remember her in your prayers as well as others in our lives.

Tomorrow, chemo again......back to reality.

Next CT scan is Nov.9 to check on growth, or stoppage of the cancer spread.  Nov, 11 for results of CT scan and next Dr.'s appt.  The blood work numbers I gave last Fri. were wrong, the printed sheet I was given was a duplicate of the test on 10/14.  So I will get the correct numbers and the newest numbers tomorrow.

Thanks again for reading and keeping up with my progress, God Bless, Captain

Back at Home, 10/26 5:30 pm

More tomorrow, had a great time, weather was perfect.  Never could find a WI-FI hot spot without disrupting the whole flow of the vacation, is why you never saw a post.

See you tomorrow with a picture of wild life we saw, scary.

God Bless, Captain

Hooked up at chemo

10:30 update Everything is good with the blood work. Liver # we talked about last time, Alk phos was 126 the same as last time, platelets 245, all good and holding steady.

Just sitting here letting things drip, drip, drip.

Talk later.....

12:30 about 20 minutes to go, where to eat today? Mb chili's and some nachos.

Next post from warmer Smokey Mountains.

God Bless, Captain

All is well

Getting ready for the chemo and trip.  Has finally quit raining, just a very like sprinkle.  Still cold around 43 degrees, supposed to warm up over the week end.

About everyday I read an article about eating right and exercising to help the fight against cancer.  Today an article in the Indy star newspaper. 

Well, enough about me.  Have a great week end.  I'm sure you'll hear from me tomorrow during chemo.

God Bless, Captain

It's Tuesday and Something needs to be said

I just don't know what it is.  It's raining out, temperature about 46 degrees and will stay like that thru Thursday as I understand it.  I''m not running or walking just a lazy blob of fat. 

Chemo starts up again on Friday, and I'm on vacation next week.  We're going to take a spin down to my honey's sister in Tennessee on Saturday thru maybe Weds, cause I have to be back for chemo again next Friday.  Ain't it fun.  I know we will have a good time in the hills.  We all have are jokes, but it is beautiful down there, the people are friendly and the pace of life is slower.  I love the terrain and the scenery, mb we can get out and walk a few trails.

Overall I'm still fine and dandy and just wanted to check in with you.  My posts will be sporadic, I will have to find some hot spots for the wi-fi to work.

Please remember our friends and neighbors who also suffer.  God Bless you all, Captain

Time to check in

Doing good here, no chemo yesterday.  Going to babysit the grand kids while the real kids go to a wedding this afternoon.  Should be a fun time.

Am feeling fine, didn't put forth the energy that I did last week, but still got some things done.  Here is a few thoughts.

"  I have kleptomania, but when it gets bad, I take something for it. "

"  Follow your dreams!  Except that one where you are naked in church.  "

" Sometimes too much to drink isn't enough.  "

" Suicidal twin kills sister by mistake! "

" A bartender is just a pharmacist with a limited inventory. "

"  I may be schizophrenic but at least I have each other. "

"  Arkansas:  Five million people, Fifteen last names. "

Ok, that's enough to get some of you all riled up.  Have a great week end and God Bless, Captain

Thursday update

Feeling fine.  Just cooked myself bacon and fried eggs, basted sunny side up with 3 pcs of toast.  Yum, yum. 

No chemo this Friday, it is an off day.  So I should be good for the week end and next week.  Ye haw.

Kind of a misty rainy day here in Indiana, temp to be around 65 -70, little colder for the week end.

I appreciate you all reading this blog and praying for my health issue.  But in talking with you I'm very mindful that we all have problems, some health, some pain and guilt, some not feeling so positive with our lives at the moment.  So when you are praying and thinking of me, let's not forget our selves and other that we may know with problems.  It could be our neighbor, someone at work, a friend of a friend.  We all need the strength of the Lord.

Little commercial here.  I just finished reading " Heaven is for Real "  this is the story of a 4 year old who spent a few minutes in heaven during surgery.  I would suggest you all read it, it is a quick read, interesting and I think very real.  You may be surprised and some what astonished. 

Anyways, I'm doing fine, working 5 days this week, moving those heavy boxes, so I'm in as good a shape as I can be in.

Thanks for your concerns and prayers, I'm thinking of you all, God Bless, Captain

Tuesday update

All is good, headache pretty much gone, bowels working fine, itching not too bad.  Going to get out the leaf blower and move the leaves out into the street for pickup. Then catch up on Mondays tv shows.

Running is practically non existent right now.  Just have been fighting it, and I don't have any heart to get out there.  There is still time for the Mini, I can always go slower.  I have to remember that my life has been re-prioritized since I signed up for the Mini.

My overall health is fine.  If they didn't tell me I had cancer I wouldn't feel like it at all.  So I'm just living my life everyday, going forward with things that are most important.

Thanks for all you do, God Bless, Captain

Sunday morning

Hope you all went to church somewhere and thanked the Lord for this beautiful day.  I'm fine after chemo and a busy day yesterday.

Had dinner Friday night with my old friends from Avon, it was a great night, filled with much laughter.

Yesterday we ate at Gray Brothers cafeteria in Mooresville with some long time friends, but not so old.  Had a great time with them sharing stories, health issues and pictures of the families and grand kids.  But I may have done too much, last night I was hit with quite a head ache, would fall asleep, wake up and it was still there, tried the recliner- no good, tried the bed-no good, tried laying on the couch-no good.  Took 2 Advil-no good, took 3 Ibuprofen finally started getting some relief.  Then it was a night of trips to the bathroom with more Ibuprofen about 4 am. 

Much better this morning, have finally eaten some toast with green tea, and the babe made some homemade tomato soup yesterday and it was great.  Sorry you all can't have some.

Anyways, back to normal, will take it easy today.

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers, God Bless you all, Captain

Chemo done, back Home

All went fine, blood work was good. For those of you medically inclined, this is the liver marker that we are watching for improvement if we ever want to put in a chemo pump. Alkaline Phos SerPl QN  on 7/12/2011 that number was 511 today on 10/7/2011 that number was 126  the normal range is 25 to 125 so we are almost there.   So it may be getting closer to trying to weigh the pros and cons of a complex surgery with recovery, pain, etc., vs. continue what we are doing with limited side effects. 

I still feel good, gained some weight this week. We'll see if I crash or have energy this time.  Off for next week, then the Dr again and chemo on 10/21.

Thanks for the prayers and thoughts, it seems to be working.  God Bless you all, Captain 

Forgot to say, today we went to Bazbaeux pizza for lunch.  yum,yum.  Tonight we are going to meet our old friends from Avon again for dinner.

Breakfast was great

Met my friend and had a great meal at Cracker Barrel, and he bought so it was even better. Thanks, buddy.

It's now 1:30 and definitely too late to run today, especially on a full stomach. Although it is a beau-ti-ful day.

Getting ready for chemo tomorrow. Hope I can keep this energy level going.

Thanks for all your cards and prayers, God Bless, Captain

Energy is strong ????

But it is a good thing. Yesterday I laced up my running shoes, got ready, then before I hit the door, I called my barber to make an appt to cut my hair. He said you want to come up right now, so I left the house with an ATM card and my house key and jogged uptown to walk thru the ATM drive up, so's I have some cash to pay the guy, then jogged to the barber. Afterwards, I walked home losing my desire to run. Now we're only talking less than 1/2 mile so no big deal. But then it hit...........

I put on long pants and fired up the weed eater to trim around the front of the house, then mowed the grass, the cleaned up the mess with the leaf blower. Then I fired up the old balloon van ( 250,000 miles ) hasn't run since May, but it was there for me.

Then I went to a local store and got a pallet of firewood ( it will get colder up north soon ). He is able to take that pallet of wood, and with both side doors open just put it in the van. Also so, 2 bags of 40 # salt for the water softener. Drove back home and parked in front of the garage.

Then I moved out the leftover firewood from last year and unloaded the newer firewood to re-stack it from the floor up. Then I replaced the older firewood on top. Then I parked the van, and cleaned up all the broken pcs of bark, etc.

By the it was about 4 PM and I showered, you know I always got to shower afterwards.

In about 30 minutes I'm going to pick up a rental log splitter to use on the larger pcs of firewood and on 5 large tree pcs of tree trunk that has been laying by the garage for 1 year waiting on this day. Hopefully the wife ( babe ) will be home before I'm done and help lift the tree trunks. That's all for today, but it will be plenty. NO running, sorry.

So now you know why I didn't blog yesterday. Tomorrow is a rest day, I'm having breakfast with another old friend. These old friends are beginning to make me feel old, going to have to look for some younger friends I guess.............lol.

See you later, and God Bless, Captain

Ok, I'm back

Got at least 2 phone calls wondering if I'm alright because of no blogs since Friday. I got some energy and was busy over the week end. But no running was done. That's becoming a real mind game. Like mind doesn't want to run.

Saturday, I went to Lowes and bought a 2 x 6 by 8 and set up saw horses and painted it white. That wore me out, just kidding, and I stopped watching some football to do all that.......lol This was because my son in law was coming up on Sunday to help me rehang the porch swing, so it wouldn't fall down again.

On Sunday, I had to start gathering all my tools and ladders together for the project. Around 2 PM, here comes the daughter, grand kids and son in law for a meal and work project. So we started planning it while the lunch was in the final preparation mode. I wanted to attach the 2 x 6 to the ceiling of the porch in order to reinforce the hanging of the swing. But we couldn't find in ceiling joints. So I cut a small hole in the ceiling to see what was behind the ceiling that we were seeing from below. Well now we know, and then we were able to hang the 2 x 6 over the hole that I had cut, so that it was hidden. Glad to say the porch swing is now hanging again and we have all sat in it ( not at the same time of course ) and it has not fallen.

Then the son in law trimmed 4 bushes around the house while my wife cleaned up after him, while I took the kids across the street and played soccer and basketball with them.

So you see I did get some energy and just wasn't able to sit down and blog. Sorry.

I'm really trying to get some energy now to run today, but I have to let my cereal and toast settle a bit now.

God Bless, Captain and thanks for thinking of me

1 PM update, I just jogged 1 mile.

Check in from the Drip Station

All is fine, blood work was good, treatment is underway. Maybe 1 1/2 hour to go. Dinner last night was postponed by the old friends. Wife and I are looking forward to the new diner shortly.

Saw the doctor earlier today, around 8 am, nothing new, " how u feeling, any reactions we need to discuss, ya-da, ya-da. " Nothing new to report there.

Pretty boring day, cloudy today, cold tonight, low of 38. Thanks for reading, talk later.

God Bless,Captain

Thursday jog in the books

Took a 1 mile jog this AM, about 60 degrees, in the sun, was nice, wanted to go farther but the brain was against me the whole way.  I'm glad I stayed with it and finished jogging and not walking.  Going out to eat with old friends tonight, you can take that both ways.....lol.

Getting the brain set up for chemo tomorrow, then going to try out a new ( to me ) diner in Indy.  Was a write up in the Indy star about great food at low prices, will give you a report afterwards.

You all have a great day, God Bless, Captain

Tuesday Jog in the books

Jogged about a mile today, speeding up about 1/2 thru just for the heck of it.  Felt fine.  Then ate my organic cereal and 2 pcs of toast with strawberry preserves.  Yum, Yum.  I know good food, not so good food.  Oh well, doesn't trying count for anything.

Now anyone who knows me knows that I am not the kind of person who says " the sky is falling, the sky is falling "  but I also believe in looking around and noticing the world around us.  The financial condition of it is what I mean today. The government is out of control, only the rich are getting richer, today we're talking averting another government shutdown again.  There is a web site I like to visit couple of times a week, you might think they are over the top.  http://www.fedupusa.org/  Just read the first article on big banks, and that we aren't going to make it to Nov. 2012 in any way shape or form like today's way of living.

Now I owned my own business for 20 years, and I'm a big believer in if you can't run it successfully, than it should fail.  Nobody should give you more money so you can fail again.  But that is what our government has done with the big banks.  The rich get richer. I'm not better off now than in 2007, food costs more, gas costs more and it's not getting better.

The point of this is a warning to my friends who may have IRA's or money in the stock market.  Try to come to the right decision to get most of your investments into cash.  I'm not saying to close out the account altogether, but just cash so you at least protect that.  If you have $ 300,000 or whatever in stocks and the market start falling you could get hurt really bad.  In the next year your money is not going to become $ 500,000, I know we want to stay in cause we are greedy and think it will only go up.  But look at the market over the last month,  400 point swings on a daily basics is not a stable market.  You could wake up and your $ 300,000 could only be worth $ 75,000.

Now I'm no market guru, but I feel I have to at least warn you all of the possibility's.  If this turns out to be true, you still have your $ 300,000 no more, but no less.  I would feel bad if I at least didn't mention the possibility.  We all know to be cautious of being robbed, mugged and attacked on dark streets.  We may have to take a longer route home, but isn't it safer than the alternative.  Same thing with your money and retirement.

Be careful out there with your money, cause the government will change the rules and take all of it.

Enough, didn't mean to scare anybody, but let's all open our eyes and read the signs before us.

God Bless, Captain

Monday after Sunday Off

Jogged 1.7 mile route, felt fine, better towards the end, started out slow finished slow, but that is ok.  The important thing is to be running again.  Speed is not important at this time, maybe not even down the road.  What's important is to kick this cancer with good shape, and shaken' the hell out of it.  Break it's will to populate and grow.

I'm still basically fine, no outside effects to speak of, I'm the same person.  I seem to get sluggish, sometimes I feel like eating but never get around to it ( guess that is loss of appetite ).  Food is in the fridge, but I don't open the fridge to get it out.  If it's anytime after 1 pm I don't want to eat for fear of feeling full and ruining supper for the wife ( the babe ).  Haven't eaten yet this am and it is 10:45, but I think I will, just don't know what.  Organic cereal with milk or fresh apple salad from yesterday, thinking more on the salad.

Anyways, still working and doing fine, sometimes feeling weaker than normal ( whatever normal is anymore ???? )

Got to go shower and feel clean again.  Hopeing the rain will stop for 24 hours and let the ground dry out some.

God Bless all of you, Captain

Saturday Jog Completed

Day 2 of the comeback is complete.  I have jogged 1 mile each day in this daring comeback from the edge of the cliff.  " I wrote that like a novel, don't take it too seriously."   I think it felt good, cooler weather, nothing is hurting or  injured, so I may as well continue.

Getting ready to shower and the wife is making breakfast, wonder what sounds good???  Oh well, I will eat what is placed in front of me.

See you tomorrow, thanks for all you do for me and others, God  Bless, Captain

Turned off the stock market, feel better..........

Yes, I did make it to the grocery yesterday.  Tried to pull myself away from the computer and the stock market, I wish I was smarter.  When to have the discipline to get out, to sell.

I am going to run or walk in a few minutes.  Now everyone get up off the floor and back in your chairs to check back to see it I really did.  Am just finishing up a cup of green tea, then will be off.

11:50 AM  Ok, for all of those still with me.  Anyone need smelling salts?????

  I just jogged 1 mile, It's been only 2 weeks and 2 days since last running.  I just want to say that I'm trying to get over the whining that's been going on here for the last 2 weeks.  This is a path that I have never had to walk before and obviously I'm going to have to learn how to deal with it.  So first, I don't have chemo today, so I don't know this is feel better for a week time because of no chemo, or can I make a turn and decide no matter what, this is the new old me.

Stay positive, quit trying to think everything thru.  Just do what you have to do, and turn off the darn stock market.  So let's everybody smile and get back to living everyday like the Lord has given us.

Thanks to those who encouraged me, and all for the prayers, God Bless you all,
Captain

Thursday

I finally got the grass mowed, I just had to do it.  I know I talked about it on Tuesday, and anyone who knows my yard knows it only takes about 30 minutes to mow the front and the back.  Told you I had a lack of energy.  Trying to work on going to the grocery right now.

I am feeling better, started getting some energy last night.  Just a sluggishness that sticks with me after chemo, or maybe the cancer eating up energy and strength.  I just don't know.  I guess I'm going to have to get tough and just do things and not think about them for hours on end.

And no right now I'm not running, why you ask?  Who knows?  But overall I'm feeling ok.  I mean there is no pain, I'm thinking there is progress, just slow I guess.  Anyways, I got things to do.......

Thanks for you all, God Bless, Captain

Ok, I'm kind of here

I'm just having a hard time getting motivated.  The week end after chemo was somewhat full of activity, more so for my wife cause I had just had chemo.  Our very good neighbor and friend passed away after 5 yrs of battling the results of a major heart attack.  I went to the visitation and the funeral and it affected me more than ever in the past.  I'm sure it was because of my situation.  My wife sang at 2 funerals over the week end, baked for her Psi Ote Home show, helped the women of the church put on a skit for Women's Sunday activity's and the grand kids dropped by and spent time going out to eat and visiting.

I tried to fall out of their van, but caught myself in time. It caught me off guard, but it shocked them.  I'm sure I will be ribbed for a long time about it, on what not to do. It was because I touched the wrong thing, not because of any medical problem, or loss of brain function.  Just been in a funk, what can I say.  It will pass like many times before.

 So here's a funny to fill out the day, I may mow the grass, but that's not the funny.

18. A woman has twins, and gives them up for adoption. One of them goes to a family in Egypt , and is named 'Ahmal.' The other goes to a family in Spain ; they name him 'Juan.' Years later, Juan sends a picture of himself to his birth mother. Upon receiving the picture, she tells her husband that she wishes she also had a picture of Ahmal. Her husband responds, "They're twins! If you've seen Juan, you've seen Ahmal."

Sorry, thanks for all your thoughts and prayers,  God Bless, Captain

Friday at the Drip Station

The blood work normally taken is fine, now they decided to check the kidney functions test, so we are waiting on those results before beginning the actual chemo. Cool in Indiana last night, around 41 for a low, hi today 64.

For those who remembered, I did find everything and completed the caulking job.

I'm doing fine, just feel slugish after chemo. Closer to having the itching & intestines under control.

Now for the Friday funnies, a friend posted this on facebook and I had to share.


To all the girls who are in a hurry to have a boyfriend or get married, a piece of Biblical advice: " Ruth patiently waited for her mate Boaz." While you are waiting on YOUR Bo, don't settle for any of his no good relatives; Broke-az, Po-az, Lyin-az, Cheating-az, Dumb-az, Drunk-az, Cheap-az, Lockedup-az, Goodfornothing-az, Lazy-az, and especially his third cousin Beatinyo-az. Wait on your Boaz and make sure he respects Yoaz....

Thanks for all prayers and positive thoughts, God Bless, Captain

Here it goes again...........

NO, I don't have any motivation to run today, sorry, end of the story.  I'm trying to get it together to caulk around the french door.  I think I can, I think I can. 

I'm feeling better overall, intestines are working good.  Sorry to all the squeamish people out there.  I have more energy today.  After thinking about yesterday and all my sleep.  I think I might just not be getting enough of it.  Work has been crazy the last 2 weeks.  Monday night I worked overtime and didn't lay down til 608 AM, just maybe that was the reason I wanted to sleep all day, with cancer and chemo being contributors only.

Special note to S#1, I could be available the week of Oct 23 thru the 27th.  Let me know.  

This good news from my blood work that I mentioned on Friday, could mean surgery.  They would want to install a chemo pump inside my abdomen that would inject chemo directly into the liver.

Pros.    Chemo would go right to the cancer area, chemo would not affect the rest of my body, in theory should do more to treat the cancer.  NO ONE has said cure yet and I don't think that is possible, without a miracle from above which is possible.

Cons  Surgery, Dr. said it is somewhat complicated, so pain and suffering, recovery period, out of work, more pain and suffering.  Limit what I can do for awhile. Did I say pain and suffering?

I asked him if this is working and not much side effects, why go thru the pain and suffering, still thinking, it would be a ways off I'm thinking even Jan., 2012.  They want to make sure the liver is working correctly for a period of time, so all the "pain and suffering" and the costs involved are not for naught.

Anyways, I'm going to look for the ladder, caulk, etc and do something outside.

Thanks for being there to talk to.  God bless you all, Captain

No Motivation

I have no motivation to make me get out of this chair to do anything.  Can't figure it out.  Watch the stock market, go take a nap, open a window, go take a nap, take my pills, go take a nap.  What's wrong here?

Sorry to bore you all, but I can't even tell you a joke.

The Washington Post has once again invited readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting, or changing one letter, and supply a new definition.
Ignoranus : A person who's both stupid and an ass.
Inoculatte : To take coffee intravenously when you are running late.
Cashtration (n.): The act of buying a house, which renders the
subject financially impotent for an indefinite period of time.
Intaxicaton : Euphoria at getting a tax refund, which lasts until
you realize it was your money to start with.
Decafalon (n.): The grueling event of getting through the day
consuming only things that are good for you

Readers are asked to supply alternate meanings for common words.


Esplanade, v. To attempt an explanation while drunk.
Pokemon, n. A Rastafarian proctologist
Circumvent, n. An opening in the front of boxer shorts worn by
Jewish men.

ok, that's enough, have a great day

God Bless, Captain

I'm Back

Got a little strength today and jogged 1 mile. Did ok, but my thighs felt very heavy as I jogged. It was cool and should have felt better but we get what we get.  My intestines are working fine with the new stuff I'm drinking.  Just a strength issue over the week end as I recover the first 2 days after chemo.

Will be doing some yard work today preparing for winter.  Not much but some.  Not setting any goals here.

Also got word from the Oncologist doctor that I should take a flu shot this year.  Usually I don't, but he said this is the year and that everyone around me should get one also; As the chemo weakens my immunity system.

That's about all I know, let's all remember those hero's from 9/11 both alive and forever gone.  And remember that others are suffering everyday from battling the dust and the memories.  It will never go away for those that witnessed it.

Live each day that the Lord has made.  God  Bless you all, Captain

Good News

CT scan showed that the cancer has not grown. Also blood work has shown improvement on certain functions, that in the future we may be able to consider a chemo pump. So it looks like the chemo is working. Remember this is a roller coaster of a trip and things change from month to month.

I have about another 30 minutes of chemo today, then the week end to rest. No work tonight.

The daughter and husband joined us today and just left. So now we have some quiet time.

Thanks again for all the prayers, as the Dr. said " whatever you're doing, keep doing it. "

God Bless, Captain

No run today

Ran out of time, worked til 5:30 in the morning.  Slept til 10AM.  Went round and round with the bank on logging into their web site.  It's now 12:15 and need to leave in 30 minutes. 

So short and sweet post today.  Chemo tomorrow.

Have a great day that the Lord has made.  God Bless you all, Captain

Running again, Well jogging

But first one more picture from the vacation, this was taken around the base of the lighthouse, which was at the end of the pier.  Trying to get the family together, just after a monster wave hit the end of the pier.  If you look closely you will notice a man with shorts on and striped shirt, he is shaking water out of his pants because  he just got drenched.  If you click on the picture it will enlarge it and you can see better.

He is on the right side walking away.  Anyways this is the family, and we did not get drenched by a wave.  PS., It took us forever in the dark to write all those names on the lighthouse using different colored pens........lol

Just so you know I jogged 1.7 yesterday, I forgot to come back and post it, and again today I jogged the 1.7 mile route.  It's ok, doesn't feel really, really good yet, but it's ok.  Sometimes I am getting discouraged with all that's going on, but I need to figure I am just starting now with this better running weather, I still have plenty of time.

Tomorrow we go back to the other world.  I have a CT scan @ 2PM.  Just a into the  hospital and back out.  Will learn the results on Friday morning when I go back to the DR. and then to chemo.

Thanks again for all my friends, God Bless you all, Captain

Where Do I Begin????

Notice the wave action and Caroline jumping, she is leaving the earth.

Had a wonderful trip. The grand kids have to be worn out,I feel sorry for them already back in school and day care today, guess that's why they are young. Will try to figure out how to post some pics, or a link to another location. The water was whipped by the winds, " it really was like the ocean " the waves were knocking them sideways. My daughter was seconds away from being drenched by a big breaker at the end of the pier, she had the video running while watching another man get the drenching. Great, great, great time had by all. The daughter and family are already planning the next trip. Sounds expensive to me.........lol

As always, why is so nice to sleep in your own bed? The B & &B was very nice, if I owned it there were some things I would change, but I guess they bought this mansion and fixed it into the present condition in only the last 7 years, so it is still a work in progress. And I'm saying the place was very nice and I would recommend it to any one. For instance, they did not have or offer Wi-fi, the only time to find coffee was when they served it for breakfast, there was no microwave for popcorn, of heating things up, I would have put a TV in the living room area for viewing, all we had was a small 19" thing in our room. Just things I have noticed that would make it better for all guests. Not that I'm a big TV critic.

I will post more later, I have to think about running today, after all this is the weather I've been whining about for over 2 months at least.

And somebody out there brought tears to my wife and my eyes when we checked out. They chose to remain anonymous but they had called and paid for one night of our stay, so we only had to pay for one night. It was totally unexpected, but deeply appreciated and this is the closest I can get to publicly thanking them. But know that it was a great surprise and very thoughtful.                                               THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU....

For now, thanks to all, God Bless, Captain

We're here, doing fine

About a 4 hour trip, with a Cracker Barrel stop. Got here with 1 1/2 til check in. Ate lunch at a German pastry / restaurant, took some pastry home w/us. Walked along the channel pier w/hundreds of swimmers enjoying the water.

Checked in at the Mansion around 3:30 and I took a quick nap,while the wife caught up on college football. Went downstairs to hordsvers then out to eat. Ate at the " Thirsty Perch " so you can imagine what we ate.

Sitting at a coffee house sipping latte, in rocking chairs. Have a great day, God Bless, Captain

Vacation time is here

I know I've not posted for 2 days, but had nothing to say, no running was done, no chemo to attend and I slipped up sorry.  My life is not that interesting, but I'm here to talk to you.

The wife is yelling " Get off that dang computer and let's go "   So I must leave you now, but she doesn't know about the new tablet that I bought so's I can keep up with you on secret posts while on vacation through the magic of WI-FI.  Who knows what that is, but it seems to work.

Have a great 3 day week end, cause I will.  God Bless you all, Captain

Feeling lots better

But not running, maybe just wait til after the Labor Day week end.  Meeting the grand kids and family at South Haven, MI for a few days of water, sun, eating, showing them why we love this area.  Can't wait.

No chemo on Friday, got to watch the sunburn, and continue treating my intestines my way.  Eating light, drinking water and taking my supplements.  Just waiting on the next Ct scan which is scheduled for 9/8, see what the results will be.  Have to remember this is all new to me and I have to find some happy medium for the right results.

Thanks for you all, God Bless, Captain

Intestines giving me fits again

First, referring back to yesterday the dr. said not to worry about not taking the pills if I don't need them. They are primarily for nausea and since that is not a problem not taking them is a not to worry about situation.  Work was fine last night energy was at an acceptable level.

Today am trying to get my intestines under control.  Yesterday I tried some over the counter medicine and the reaction was not was I was expecting at all.  So I'm back to my supplements, magnesium, probiotics, etc., only now I'm playing catch up.  I'm trying not to get graphic here, but I know what I should be doing and I'm trying to get there as quick as possible.

So obviously I'm not running today.  Watching the stock market and sleeping..  Also, this is weird, right now I have on a long sleeve T=shirt, long pants and heavy socks trying to stay warm.  Even though it is 83 outside I've been chillin all day.

Enough about me, Mo sent me the nicest email today after our brunch on Saturday,  I guess I''m going to have to find some $$$$ inheritance for her if she keeps babbling on like that.  I won't embarrass her or myself, but she came to me as a 20 year old, I was about 36 and trying to establish a balloon decorating business.  She grew with me learning the trade, and working the hours that needed to be worked. Oh, we had some minor battles, but I would depend on her for anything.  When we had large jobs I have been know to fly her in from New Hampshire to help.  So today, even though we don't see each often I know she is there in the background sending me positive thoughts and peace. I know I'm now rambling, but Mo you mean something to me and to others in your life.......... I know it. Thanks for being there all these years.

Thanks for all of you all do with your thoughts and prayers, God bless, Captain