Christmas Skunk

As you know we caught a couple os skunks in a trap this summer. For Christmas, my dad got the best and funniest present. From my sister and niece, he got a skunk webkinz (stuff animal) in a small cage. It was funny, when he opened it up. I did take a pic of him holding the cage, but what you see above is just a pic of the skunk in the cage, taken from three different angles.

Didn't have a white Christmas, that is two years in a row.

Heard from the hospital this morning, my brother's feeding tube was reinserted yesterday, and he is moving to the nursing home this morning. Hopefully, he should only be there a week. I didn't go see him yesterday, but I should have. If I don't see him today, I will definitely see him this weekend.

Merry Christmas

If it weren't for Christmas, we wouldn't have Easter.

Another Timmy Update

On Sunday, my parents visited a nursing home to check it out. Sunday morning, he pulled out his feeding tube, and it had to be reinserited. My brother was supposed to be discharged on Monday. That didn't happen. They were waiting on a certain person to go to the hospital to see my brother, we have no idea if she showed up or not. Then they sad yesterday, and somebody didn't want him going to the nursing home in the afternoon/evening, so they post-poned it until this morning. Guess who decided to pull out his feeding tube again? That is right, Timmy did it again. There was nobody at the hospital to reinsert it, and so it will be out until Friday. He still has the mickey tube, and can be fed through that. As of now he might or might not go to the nursing home on Friday. Timmy keeps telling people, that he doesn't want his feeding tube anymore, but nobody is listening. I don't want him to have it anyway, but there is nothing I can do about it. Sorry kiddo, you will have that tube for the rest of your life. He is not able to take anything via mouth ever again, and he so badly wants to.'

'I saw my family doctor this morning, and I have excema around my mouth, I have had it for about two months. I was told to never use Neosporin, because it makes the rash or whatever it is worse.

Good News

The doctor called here not too long ago. Timmy didn't have surgery this afternoon, but he was put to sleep, so they could put a scope with a camera down his throat. The infection that is in his blood has not touched his heart. His heart and the valves are fine. That is wonderful news! Now it is up to the infectious disease doctor what they will do next.

Not Working

Timmy has been on antibiotics since last Friday, adn they are not working! He had surgery this afternoon, went in about 2 pm. They have been doing blood cultures, and have seen that the infection is growing, not going away. He had surgery to see if the infection is growing around his heart, to see if it is affecting his heart in any way. As of now, he is not transferring to a nursing home.

I am not, will never be ready to give him up. I know that when he dies, he will go to Heaven, but I am not ready to let him go. I will always need him. I call him my baby.I know he is nowhere near being a baby, but that is what I have called him for years. Please keep him in your prayers.

A Nursing Home We Will Go

My mom went yesterday afternoon to see my brother. She said that he looked good and acted fine, just like what I said on Sunday. Doctor thinks that maybe when he has gotten his previous infections, that when they kill it, it doesn't completely die. So it goes to "sleep" and it "wakes" back up at sometime. The doctor wants to prescribe a really strong antibiotic that they will give him every 12 hours for twenty-five days. A pic line is being inserted, to make it easier for the IV and being given the strong medicine. A social worker at the hospital is going to check into the same nursing home he was in last year for him to go to again. Depending on when he can go, will determine if he will be discharged from the hospital this Friday or next Monday. He will be in the nursing home over Christmas. :(

I've made comments to my mom that he has been in the hospital more since he recieved his feeding tube 6 1/2 years ago, than before that time. She said something about asking /making a comment about that to whoever if that could be a possibilty of him getting sick more easily. My brother has to have one on one care, because of him being active, able to get into things, pull out things from his body, etc.

Please pray that there is no problem of him getting into the nursing home, and that this antibiotic does the trick, adn he gets no more infections.

Back in the Hospital

NO, I am not in the hospital, but my brother is, again! This is his fourth or fifth stint in the hospital this year alone. Since re received his feeding tube, 6 1/2 years ago, he has gotten sick more easily than before that time. Before the feeding tube, he was rarely hospitalized since he was a baby (he spent time in the hospital for awhile then.) I do admit he was in the hospital a couple of times after moving to the group home, but nothing like this past year.

He has an infection. The doctors believe this infection started in a kidney, then moved into his bloodstream. The worse part is, this infection is immune to a lot of different antibiotics. A doctor who specializes in infectious diseases is being called in to see about prescribing a much stronger antibiotic, to kill this infection.

I went after church and lunch to go and see him. My brother sure didn't act sick. I was told that he was very sick. I went into his room, saw him and started complaining. Why would I complain? I saw his hands in restraints. I warned my parents in advance, that if I saw him in restraints I would have a hissy fit. Don't get me wrong, I understand why, but I do not like it one bit. My brother can not express himself and tell us what is wrong, but being in restraints is a scary thing. I should know, because I woke up in in ICU on a respirator and my hands in restraints, a little over 6 years ago. That is another story for another time.

When he saw me, he became agitated and started moving around, and trying to get out of the bed. He got his arms tangled up, and the IV to stop working, and causing one of his hands to become blue from not getting any blood to it. They had to undo the restraints, and allowed them to stay off while I was there. They did try to put them back on, but he started to have a fit. (Such a good boy.) I read to him, and it was very uncomfortable to hug him and sing to him, but I did do that. When I was getting ready to leave, one person mentioned how well my brother obeyed me, and not them. He doesn't always obey me. They put him back into restraints after I left. Please keep him in your prayers. I will never be ready to let him go to Heaven, but some day, it will be his time to go home to Jesus.

God Intervenes

Genesis 9:1b "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth." God said this after the flood. Fast forward about 1000 years, and guess what? Do you think they obeyed God's command? No way! Genesis 11:1-9 "Now the whole earth used the same language and the same words. And it came about as they journeyed east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there. And they said to one another, 'Come, let us make bricks and burn them thoroughly.' And they used brick for stone, and they sued tar for mortar. And they said, 'Come, let us build for ourselves a city, and a tower whose top will reach into heaven, and let us make for ourselves a name; lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth.' And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower which the sons of men had built. And the Lord said, 'Behold, they are one people, and they all have the same language. And this is what they began to do, and now nothing which they purpose to do will be impossible for them. Come, let Us go down and there confuse their language, that they may not understand one another's speech.' So the lord scattered them abroad from there over the face of the whole earth; and they stopped building the city. Therefore its name was called Babel, because there the Lord confused the language of the whole earth; and from there the Lord scattered them abroad over the f ace of the whole earth." Because the people chose not to obey, God came down and created a lot of new and different languages, and cause them to speak them and to scatter to different parts of the world. If we choose not to obey, there might come a time, that God will intervene in our lives so that His will be done. I know thee are times, where I have not obeyed God. Has God had to intervene in my life so that His will be done?

I wonder what was that universal language that they all spoke before God confused their language and caused them to scatter? How many different languages did God create at that time? All of the ones that are spoken here on Earth, were they created at that time, or did they come around later?

God came down to Earth at other times. It was mentioned this morning, another time where God intervened, so that his will would be completed. Mark 16:15, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." We, humans, sure do not like to obey! Acts 8:1b, "And on that day a great persecution arose against the church in Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles." God allowed the early church to be persecuted, so they would obey and preach the Gospel to other parts of the world.

There are a couple of others things that I wrote down in my Bible, but that one is in the car. The scripture I typed here comes from the New American Standard, my mom's Bible. I am really enjoying this current sermon series. For next Sunday, we are to read Genesis 12, 15.

Prosperity Returns

"Then I will make up to you for the years that the swarming locust has eaten." Joel 2:25

"Those of us who rejoice in God can trust that even though the consuming locusts of life destroy our blessing/ God will replace them. Though hardship makes us struggle awhile. God turns the situation around and pours out blessings on His faithful people. Prosperity returns to those who love Him well, if we determinedly love Him. In heaven or on earth, the blessing appears again."

I read the above this morning from Everyday Encouragement by, Pamela McQuade. I received this book in September 07 at a women's retreat. I am in the second time through reading this book. I like it a lot.

Genesis Thoughts

At church, we are in the midst of a new sermon series on the book of Genesis. There has been two sermons so far, and they have been good. The first one was on the first two chapters, and this past Sunday was on chapters three and four.

The first chapter was more broad and the second chapter gave details about creation. The first three days was about God forming the earth, and days 4-6 on how he filled the earth. The first poem in the Bible is in chapter 1. The second poem is in chapter 2. God created rest, which is day 7. Rest is good for us.

Chapter 2, God tells Adam that he is free to eat from any tree in the garden. Choice is a good gift from God. God allows us to choose. We make all kinds of choices every day, they can bring honor to God or not to him. Verse 18 tells us that God said it was not good for man to be alone. God already knew that, but that Adam had to discover that for himself, that animals do not make a suitable helper for man, only another human does.

Eve was the first legalistic in the Bible. She added to what God said about the tree in the middle of the garden. I wrote in my Bible, that I always thought it was Satan who said to Eve what God said-in adding/changing what God said about the tree in the middle. It was Eve. Genesis 3:2-5. Compare that with chapter 2, verse 16 to see what God had actually said.

The second half of chapter 3, verse 15 is the first prophecy of Jesus. God says to the serpent (Satan), "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel." That is saying that Jesus will defeat Satan. The Israelites kept looking for the fulfillment of that prophecy and were disappointed that it wasn't fulfilled, that when Jesus did come, they didn't believe.

Every time I sin, something dies. Death in the Bible means separation. When Adam and Eve sinned, their death was separation from God.

The first sacrifice is mentioned in verse 21 in chapter 3, when God clothed Adam and Eve. God had to kill animals so that their hides could be used as clothing.

Chapter 4 wasn't mentioned in Sunday's sermon. This coming Sunday, we will study chapters 6 and 7. I've been reading the chapters for the next week's sermon as part of my devotions during the week. Just thought I'd share these with you.

Deer in Snow

Gorgeous View

Winter Wonderland

November Labs

After school day, went to the cancer center to have labs done and my port flushed. My report I received about 5 minutes later is different from what I got during the past year. I do not understand it as well as the other ones. My white blood count is up to 3.4, Red blood count is 4.06, and my Hemoglobin is at 11.4. They are all low, but to be expected. They will be higher next month. They are close to the normal range.

The nurse asked me what they would be testing. I told her I had no idea, whatever my onc wanted. She said that she hadn't read my chart/orders yet. I go back again December 30.

Interview

A couple of months ago, my dad saw this add for a job about doing hands on science at different schools for a certain organization. I sent off a letter of interest and my resume packet. They sent back to me an application and I forgot all about it. I received a phone call last Saturday about it. I was sent the application via email, filled it out and faxed it back Sunday afternoon. I had an interview for it this evening. Would work 20-35 school days total during the school year at different schools. Plus there is prep time and time to contact schools and selling the program to them and staying in touch with them. Each lesson lasts about 45 minutes. There could be about 6 a day and would be at the same school 2-3 days at a time. These would be booked in advance, so the other days, I would be free to sub. Sounds interesting, would be a stepping stone for what I want to do in about 10-15 years down the road. Will see. Because I am thinking of maybe moving for a teaching job, could be a hindrance for me. Also, because I do not like cold calling, could also be a hindrance for me. Will see. God's will be done. He will provide something for me full-time in his time, not in my time.

Texas, Here is Some Snow!

To all of my wonderful friends in TX here is what I woke up to! I can not stop smiling or praising God for the beauty outside of my house. I do have to drive in it today to work.

Dancin Snowflakes

I didn't go to church yesterday, and my ear and throat felt much better. Since I had called off from ushering the night before, I chose to end up staying home. They both bothered me a tiny bit, but nothing like the previous days.

I worked today. Wasn't a bad day. The coolest part was during lunch duty. It started to snow, which usually puts a smile on my face. At first it didn't look like it would stick to the ground, but then it started to come down pretty hard. The flakes seemed big to me/ Then it looked like they dancing. It was so cool to watch. The kids there were amazed as well. They are hoping for a snow day for tomorrow, but I don't think it will happen. 4-5 kids ended up outside without any coats on, and they were enjoying it. The birds were fun to watch. Seemed like the snow was confusing the birds. Looked like they were diving into the snow. The s now did let up, and by the time school got out, the snow was gone. I truly enjoyed the snow, and thanked our Father for it.

After school, I had an appointment with my family doc. He called me "waxy" for all of the wax that was in my ears. I do have a small ear infection. I was given a prescription and had it filled.

The snow came back late this afternoon, and soon I will be able to take pics of the snow. I so wished I had my phone with me this morning to take pics of the snow.

Not Feeling Well

It has been a month since I ended Interferon. The side effects lasted about three weeks. Off and on during that time, my throat would bother me, and my head felt like it was at the end of a cold. Earlier this week, my throat started to hurt again, this time, on the right side. Wednesday night, my right ear started to hurt. it has been three years, since I've had an earache. I am going to call and see about seeing my family doctor on Monday. Next Friday, I am having labs done and my port will be flushed. Yesterday, I'd thought about waiting until Friday and tell the nurses, but I've changed my mind.

About three weeks, I started ushering at church. I went ahead and called off for tomorrow. Here is the kicker, I don't look sick or really feel sick. Just that my throat and ear hurts. I haven't slept well the last three nights. Thinking about not going to church tomorrow.

Worked everyday this week. When I see my family doctor, will ask if I should call my onc and let him that I'm not feeling well. My counts will be slightly screwed when blood is drawn next Friday, since my body is fighting something. I have been praying about this.

Colors of Fall

Here are pics of many colors that make up autumn. Pictures are great, but it is a wonder to see it in person. Enjoy!

End of Treatment Party PIcs

These are the pics from my nurses to people who came to help me celebrate finishing up my treatment for Melanoma.

They Won!!!!!

This afternoon was the final basketball game before the tournament starts next week. I missed the first half, because where I worked today, I wasn't done till about 3:50 pm. My niece played the fourth quarter. I I took a video of the 4th quarter on my mom's camera. I got there just after the third quarter started. When my sister got to the game the score was 2-0. They scored first and led the whole game.

They did pretty good. I took a few pics of the scoreboard. At one time, they were only 1 basket apart in the score. My niece did have to dribble the ball, shot a couple of times, but missed. She had a chance of shooting a foul shot, but also missed that. Guess what?! She did make a basket. That was so cool! The final score was 31-18. Their record is 1-2.

The other team made two technical fouls in a row.

I have decided now that my scrapbook will be for the whole month of October.

October Onc Visit

I saw my onc this morning. I gained 2 pounds in the past 16 days. My current weight is at 250.7 pounds. Daily, I'm up and down as to how good I am in watching what I eat. I've started eating yogurt again the past three weeks, so I know that will help. With working just about every day, not walking as much, but grad school starts in January, so walking on campus will help.

Labs were not done this morning. It has been three weeks since my port was flushed. My labs were low, but okay this past year. Labs will be done next month, and my onc says my levels should be normal by then. Labs drawn and port will be flushed the Friday before Thanksgiving. The same thing will be done again on December 30. Scans will be January 7. Will change my derm appointment to a different time that week or later in the month. Will next see my onc on January 16 (no school day). I should get my lab reports within a few minutes each time they are done.

Come January, will talk about follow-up and what will be done with my port.

My brother was discharged from the hospital today, and is back at the group home. I'm thinking of seeing him tomorrow. (I checked out a few books at the library to read to him.) My mom did tell someone from the group home that I was very upset to seeing him in restraints while he was in the hospital. Hopefully, that will be discussed and will not happen again.

Went over to AU and filled out the paper requesting to change my advisor. Hopefully, that will be okayed. I am still not sure which classes to take first in January. I need help in deciding that. I need to finish my app for grad assistantship and get my recommendations written, so I can turn them all in.

Going to a Halloween party tomorrow night. I will be going as a domino. Will wear black and safety pin colored circles onto my shirt and pants. The circles will be made from construction paper. Will post pics at a later date.

Still have problems with posting pics, printing pics, and, printing from my email account. Once all of that is fiured out, I will post pics on here.

Basketball and Brother

This afternoon was my niece's second basketball game. She played the third quarter. I had my mom's camera and I recorded the whole quarter, so mom and grandma could watch it this evening. Mom and grandma didn't go to the game. The team did better, and was a little more aggressive. They seemed to pass the ball a lot, and then would loose the ball, because they were making long passes, and the other team would get catch the ball. The point guard would drive the ball to the black line by the basketball and try to make difficult shots, that wouldn't go in. Nobody threw a foul shot today. Jump balls are no longer done. My niece did have to dribble/drive the ball to the basket, and the shot she made didn't go in. This week's score is what I expected for last week. Final score was 12-26. Her team lost again this week. There was minutes of time when nobody scored. I did see improvement in the girls.

I found out this evening, after supper, that my brother was taken to the emergency this morning. They got him up for school, he had a fever, and went back to sleep. They think he has pneumonia. Will see how long he will be in there. Depending on where I am working the next few days, will determine if I can co see him. Hopefully, I will see him before Friday. I will be downtown on Friday, so I can definitely see him then. I thought about seeing him yesterday, but when I called after church he was napping, and sounded like they didn't want me to wake him up. My dad said he went to the hospital because I didn't go see him yesterday.

Party Time

Last night was my party! I will post pictures later this week or next week. It takes time to upload pics to the computer and any websites I might use. We have a working computer now!

Little over 30 people came out last night. 3 couples from my parents church was here. My cousin and her son, my sis, niece, and sis' boyfriend. 12 people from my class, one of those brought her kids, and a few of my nurses showed up. Basically, they all left around 8:30-little after. A couple from my class showed up around 9 pm. Then about 30 minutes later, my nurses showed up at the front door. It was great to see them. They were all gone by 10 pm, a few minutes after. We ate all of the ice cream cake. Taught somebody from my parent's church how to play Phase 10. We never seem to finish playing Phase 10. The first time, we got close. I took pictures, about 40 with both my mom and my camera. I'm glad for all of those who came out.

Lingering Effects

It has been a week since I've finished Interferon. Takes about 30 days for the side effects to be gone. (From reading the mpip board, a few might never stop experiencing a few effects.) I still have had small headaches this week. I 've had low grade fevers start in the middle of the night and last till sometime in the morning. Hair is still thinning. According to my mom, there is new hair growth. ( need a hair cut, hair has been fly away.) Fatigue is up some at various times. Also, been having some brain fog.

Worked 2 1/2 days this week. Party is tomorrow evening.

Fireproof Colors

I had one of my favorite meals for supper on Friday. Lasagna, my mom made it to celebrate that I was done with Interferon. She made two pans, with the second one in the freezer.

On Saturdays, I do not come downstairs until 10 am or later. I listen to the radio from 8:30-9:30 am. Then I do devotions and watch tv. I listen to "Down Gilead Lane" and "Adventures in Odyssey". I love those two shows. I went downstairs around 10:30 or so on Saturday. The backdoor bell rang around 11 am or so. FedEx dropped off a box, which was from me. The box came from ProFlowers out in CA. It was a box of chocolates from my SS class in honor of me finishing my treatment. That was so sweet and thoughtful of them. The chocolate is good. There is a packet of coffee in the box, which my dad is drinking.

Saturday afternoon, both my parents and myself went to the movie theatre to see Fireproof. The movie stars Kirk Cameron, and it is very good movie. Kirk plays a captain in the fire department and has been married about 7 years or so. His marriage is on the rocks. They are always snapping at each other, there is anger and bitterness between them. His wife wants a divorce. Kirk's parents come to see him (they live 4 hours away), and he tells his parents about impending divorce. His father tells him to hold off and that he will send him a book for him to read. The book is called "The Love Dare". Kirk's character reads and follows the directions in the book. The Gospel message is given throughout the movie. There are a couple of nail biter, edge of your seat rescue scenes also in the movie. I will not give the ending away. God see this wonderful movie for yourself.

Yesterday, I spent sometime with my brother. I hadn't seen him in about 3 weeks. It is always good to spend time with him.

When I got home yesterday, I stopped in the driveway to take pics of the trees. I so enjoyed my view walking down the driveway this morning to get the newspaper. The leaves are these gorgeous colors of yellow, gold, red, orange all intermixed within the still green leaves. It is a beautiful picture that God has made for us to enjoy. When people come for my party on Saturday, they sure are going to enjoy the drive up the driveway. Once we have a working computer, I will post pics of this year's fall colors.

I'm Done!

Today was my last day of getting my Interferon treatment for Melanoma! Yeah!!!!!! I showed up about an hour early, I was done subbing early. (I worked every day this week, and I worked in three different school districts.)

My weight was not checked today. But as of two days ago, I have lost 56 pounds, down to 248.5 pounds. Labs were not done, since I received my last Interferon injection today. Labs will be done in two weeks. Will see where I am in two weeks when I see my onc.

They had a little party for me. Two of my nurses weren't there. I got a hug from each one. There was a certificate congratulating me on finishing my treatment. I was given two balloons, they had crepe paper up, and a cake. This was not just any cake, but ice cream cake! They bought an ice cream cake for me.

I in turn had a thank you card and a container of brownies for them. My nurses have been wonderful! While my temp was being taken, the pharmacist came out and did a quick jig for me. I started laughing. It was funny! The nurses are coming to my party next week.

Party is in 8 more days! It is a week from tomorrow. Will be food, fun, and fellowship. Celebrating the end of my treatment.

I see my onc in two weeks, and a week later, a derm to check out a spot on my right thigh. I will have a full body check in January. When I see my onc, will find out more about follow-up and will make a complete decision about my port.

No more injections!!!!!!! No more injections!!!!!!!!!! No more Interferon!!!!!! My car is not going to know what to do on Monday. It is so used to driving over to the hospital three days a week. What will be helpful is seeing my niece play BB Monday afternoon. Let's just praise the Lord!!!!

Met With My Advisor

Yesterday afternoon, I met with my academic advisor (aa). I might get a new one, this one is a reading person, and I am a science person. Will see... I need to talk to the science person to see which science classes I can take for my 15 hours of content, part of my program. I will be getting my Master's in Elementary Ed in curriculum studies. I went through this schedule last night, looking at different classes that are being offered next year. I am thinking of taking two classes in January, and try to take two in both summer sessions. Will see if I can handle that. I am also going to check into scholarships and grad assistantships. I will write more when I get more info.

I only worked 1 1/2 days last week. So far, I have worked 2 1/2 days this week. My White blood count is up to 2.2, and platelets are up to 142. My body is fighting something, my fatigue level has been up, and I see to get a low grade fever sometime in the middle of the night to about mid to late morning. Then it goes away.

I am done on Friday. Yahoo!!!!!! I have a thank you card for my nurses and I am baking them brownies as a gift. When I am done here at the library, I'm thinking of stopping in Wadsworth to order my ice cream cake.

Funny Brother Story

Wednesday was the quarterly IEP meeting for my brother. My mom goes and she told us at supper that night a couple of stories. I was laughing, because my brother is smart.

There is a girl in his class who wheres a helmet. When she is sitting at the table they take it off. They placed the helmet up high above the cabinets. My brother eyed it, and eyed it some more. He went over to the counter and started climbing. He got stuck while he was climbing. The teachers watched him and he got himself unstuck and climbed onto the counter. He reached up and pulled the helmet down. (When my brother was younger, we allowed him to climb onto the furniture.) They couldn't believe that he did it. You have to stay one step ahead of him, because he will figure it out.

They had a jumpsuit made for him. It zips in the back, purposely. My brother likes to pull out his feeding tube. When he gets to the workshop, he takes off his pants, so he can put the jumpsuit on. He likes wearing the jumpsuit.

It is a new policy at the Infusion Center to be weighed every time you go in. My vitals are taken every visit, as well. I was weighed this afternoon, and have lost a couple of pounds. I am down to 249.9 pounds. One more week of injections are left!!!!!! I worked 1 1/2 days this week. Stayed home all day yesterday. Had a fire in the fireplace going the last two nights.

New Cancer Center

4 more injections left!! Today, Summa opened their new Cancer Care Center. It is a really nice building. No more parking in the parking deck. No more walking the bridge and long hallways. Actually, I will miss that.

Go in the building and go up one flight of stairs. My onc is next door to where I go. That will make it easier to see my nurses when I go in for a checkup. The waiting room is much bigger than the old one is. A small coat rack is there. A nice new tv, but none of the tvs are hooked up yet.

Go to the back and there are like about 20 chairs/beds. The beds are enclosed in rooms with a door. The chairs look out the window and have new chairs and tvs. They are both nice. They each have a curtain for privacy. There is a visitor's chair for each chair. Way, way bigger than the old room. Good size nurse's station. Head nurse has her own desk off to the size. The oncology pharmacy is also back there, instead of calling, they can walk over to the window to order what they need. They actually now have their own ice machine. Before they had to walk over to the floor to get ice. (That is important, I get a glove of ice on Fridays to make my port area nice and cold before my port is accessed.) Each nurse has her own phone to use while at work. They can call each other when they need help. Let's just say, Summa did good by them.

I took my camera this morning, so I could have my pic taken with my nurses. Had two pics taken today. One is off on Wednesdays, and another one was busy with a patient. I will take it again on Friday. The nurses have been invited to my party later this month.

Went shopping afterwards and bought three new pairs of pants. Because of the material and how they are made, I got them in 18/20S (small, the other ones I tried on were too long). The 22/24 seem a little big. I am not officially down to a 18/20. I need to start eating yogurt again. Yogurt really does help in weight loss. Had lunch at CiCi's Pizza (my favorite place to eat at.)

Sleep

I am currently tired! Only 5 more injections! In the past few months, when I wake up in the middle of the night, a lot of nights, I have a hard time getting back to sleep. I have that problem from my dad. You wake up for the RR, and for whatever reason you have something on your mind. You start thinking, and that will keep you awake for awhile. I am in bed between 7 1/2-9 hours a night. I go to bed tired and wake up tired. I am just not getting enough sleep at night. I have had this problem for years, but would not effect me very often, but it is getting more and more frequent.

It doesn't help that I am up 2-4 times a night. I spend about 95% of the night, laying on my back with my right leg elevated. Laying on my back, makes me wake up a lot at night. Every time I wake up, I basically will roll over and hit play on my cd player, so I can play my Praise and Worship cd. The cd lasts about 80 minutes, and it plays a few time through every night.

I have worked 12 days this month. I worked 3 1/2 days last week, and so far only one day this week.

This past Saturday night, I did a small scrapbook in about 2 hours. It is a Picfolio and holds 24 pics. I did it of my birthday, back in July. I'm thinking of doing another one from next month's party. Hopefully, I'll take a lot of pics that night, so that I can make one.

Praise God!

7 more injections then I am done!!!!!! I posted on Tuesday about something stupid I did on Monday. When I left the library I was at on Tuesday, I stopped at the one I was at on Monday. Guess what! My flash drive was there behind the computer on that desk. I am so hoping, nobody looked to see what was on my flash drive. I am so thankful that it was there.

We are now in my favorite season, fall/autumn. The leaves have started changing on the trees in my yard. It is a slightly early, but still beautiful.

I have gotten into Akron U's Grad School. I will start classes in January. I will be getting a letter soon, telling me who my advisor is and will call to make an appointment.

New Stocking

Last Friday, I picked up my new stocking. I wore it for the first time on Saturday. It fits fine, but it bugs me at the top of my thigh. Saturday, it left a red mark. It is tighter than my old one. With the temps in the 70's and colder at night, you'd think the lymphodema would decrease, but it doesn't look like it has.

Labs were done as usual, last Friday. My white blood count is down from 2.0 to 1.9. Looks like my platelet dropped, too. They are now at 121.

I worked 4 days last week, kinder. I have worked both yesterday and today for this week.

8 more injections!

The Indians have won 7 in a row, and are actually 2 games above .500. Before Sunday, the last time they were above .500 was back in May. Cliff Lee pitches tonight and again on Sunday.

I saw 3 deer last Thursday morning.

I've been taking lots of Tylenol in the past week and half, trying not to take a pain pill. It has been a couple of weeks since I've taken a pain pill.

I did something really stupid yesterday. I need some prayer!!! I went to the library yesterday afternoon to get online. (First time online in 6 days.) I connected my flash drive to the hard drive, so I could send an attachment to an email to somebody. I totally forgot about my flash drive and left it there, connected to the computer. This flash drive is very important, all of my resume stuff is on it, along with a copy of my driver's license and I think also my ss card. When I realized it this afternoon, I had my mom call over to the library and nobody had turned it in. Please pray that I get it back and nobody uses it to try and mess up my identity. I still can't believe I did that. It is tough not having a working computer at home.

Skunk II

**UPDATE**
The skunk went "bye-bye" yesterday morning. I think you can figure out how he went bye-bye. I will give you a hint. Three letter word, and starts with a g.
The Indians will have a pitcher two years in a row win the CY Yound Award. Cliff Lee won again last night. He is now 22-2.


I was awake for a couple of hours last night, at some point, I heard what sounded like the trap door closing. Lo and Behold, we caught an animal. A skunk, a good sized skunk. A skunk, not an albino skunk. I told my dad, he went out to look, he threw something at the cage, and guess what the skunk did? He sprayed! My room smelled, I had to close my windows and it still smelled when I went downstairs. I didn't see it spray, but I sure could smell it. At first, it looked like two animals in the cage, but there is only one. I wonder how long we will have the skunk until it goes "bye-bye".

Last Day

Monday, was my monthly appointment with my onc. I only lost 1 pound this past month. I ate more and drank more pop than I should've. I will see him again on October 24. I received the lab results from Friday's labs. My WBC went down from 2.3 to 2.0. I expected that since I battle fatigue all of last week. My platelets went up from 107 to 139. I had the normal lows of other things.

Last day of Interferon treatment will be Friday, October 10. Yeah!!!!!!!!! Can you believe that the year of treatment is just about done? That is such good news. I will have labs done on October 24 with scans in early November. After that, if things are good, I can have my port taken out. I will ask about followup first and go from there. Please pray that I will make the best decision about my port and what to do with it.

Thank you again for all of your prayers! I so do appreciate them.

I am working on applying to grad school to start in January. I worked yesterday. So far, I've worked 2 1/2 days since school has started. It will pick up, but I'm not worried.

My Teachers

I attended Chapel Hill Christian School for elementary school in the late 70's and early 80's. Since I have graduated from college and have my teaching certificate, I have subbed for three of my elementary ed teachers. Before I ever moved to TX, I did sub at CHCS, and subbed for my PE and my sixth grade teachers. Subbing for my sixth grade teacher was so cool! My fourth grade teacher is teaching in the city school district that I do sub for. This afternoon, I was her sub. That was cool for the both of us! She is now teaching third grade.

This Past Week

Friday afternoon, we left for IL for a wedding that was on Saturday morning. There were 5 of us in the car. Cramped, but I tried hard not to complain. The only driving I did over the weekend was Sunday morning.

The wedding was nice, started 30 minutes late, that is okay. The groom washed his bride's feet. That was different. The bride, groom, matron of honor, and best man, were the only ones to partake in communion. Bride's mother married them. Brunch reception, and dancing after we ate. Groom's sister made the wedding cake. She did a great job.

Spent the night in IN. Sunday morning, drove to Sandusky to spend time at Kalahari. Nice place, fun and expensive. Did get some sun. Sore calf muscles, feel it more in my left than my right, but knees are bothering me. They have a wave pool, four hot tubs, water slides, and other things to do.

Left Sandusky around 5 pm on Monday to head for home. I called the hospital (nurses' station) to let them know I would be in between 7:30 and 8 pm. That is so they could call pharmacy to have my injection. They knew I would be in sometime on Monday, because they had my chart. I get there about 7:30 (mom drove me, I was very tired). Guess what? My injection wasn't there. They called down to pharmacy. I didn't get my injection till around 9 pm. I was bored, so I played with my phone and watched Indians a bit. About 8:45 called the sub systems to see if there was something for Tuesday, there was and I accepted it.

Woke up Tuesday and called the system trying to cancel, couldn't. I was so tired that I couldn't function and sore. Dad drove me to school and my mom picked me up that afternoon. Had a headache most of day, finally took a pain after supper, 6 pm. The pain pill did its job.

This morning, had my follow-up with the surgeon about last week. Appointment was for 8:45 am. Was called back to a room, a little after 10 am, waited still another hour to see the doctor. Confirmed the bakers cyst, and said I was probably starting to get arthritis in my knees. Was told to follow-up with my family doctor. Will wait awhile before I do. It was noon, when I finally left the hospital area, after getting my injection.

I didn't get my lab results on Monday. I got them today. My WBC was 2.3, up from 2.1. I thought it would've dropped since I was tired all last week. I didn't eat breakfast on Friday, and my glucose was at 107, that was odd. My platelets had dropped down to 107. I was expecting that to drop. Will get new results next Monday.

This Friday, I am planning on getting measured for a new compression stocking. I won't if I sub. Seeing my onc next Monday afternoon.

Last Friday, the Indians winning streak was ended by Seattle, and Seattle swept the good guys. We did win Monday and Tuesday and lost today. Monday, Cliff Lee pitched and won his 20th game of the season. Let's see how many more he can win. He won AL pitcher of the month for August, second time this season. He is in contention for CY Young award. I hope he wins it.

Ultrasound Update

I had my ultrasound this morning, on both groins and going down the inside part of each leg, and behind each knee. I was told that I had a Bakers Cyst, a buildup of fluid. I will know more after I see the surgeon next week.

Ultrasound

I saw my surgeon this morning. For the past week, I have had some pain in my right knee. Last Thursday, at least twice, I was standing and talking, the next thing I know, my leg gives out on me. I didn't fall, but was able to shift my weight around. I debated or not to make the appointment then debated or not to keep the appointment. So, I saw him this morning. The knee area is a little swollen and so is the calf area.

Tomorrow morning at 8:30, I am scheduled for an ultrasound on both legs from the groin area on down. Since I just had a CT scan last month, I'm not getting another one. My surgeon doesn't think there is anything wrong, but to play it safe. Wants to make sure I do not have a blood clot, and the ultrasound can pick up lymph nodes.

I will be seeing my surgeon again next Wednesday morning.

My Weekend

Over the past two days, all three of my teams won, while my mom's teams lost. :) Friday night, my high school team won and my mom's lost. Indians won both Friday night and last night. They have won 6 in a row. Steelers won last night, while the Browns lost yesterday afternoon. I keep telling her, she needs to start cheering for the better team, but she won't listen to me.

Yesterday, a friend and I, went to the William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum. She went to see a certain show for a class. That place is cool. There were about 100 steps up to the monument, where President McKinley and his wife's coffins are located. There is a statue of him as well. That monument is 101 yrs old. They were both placed there in 1907, after Mrs. McKinley died. Both of their daughters who died in childhood are there in the wall behind their coffins, as well.

Inside, we saw a couple of replicas of dinosaurs, mastodon, hands on science of energy, pulleys, light, etc., hides of animals, bees, and a few live animals in cages. Mastodons are related to mammoths and today's elephants. Mastodons lived in Stark County millions of years ago. We saw an electric show and learned a bit about electricity.

I took pics in Discover World (science stuff), but wasn't able upstairs in the McKinley collection.

Was in the planetarium, and saw a video about Mars, and saw stars of what would've been visible last night, if we had a clear sky. Was cool.

Upstairs, was cool. Street of shops from the 1800's and early 1900's. A couple of old cars, wagon, White House mementos, some of their furniture, Inauguration mementos. I like that kind of stuff. I had an enjoyable time. The slide show is from the museum showing pics that I had taken.

Today after church, about 18 of us went bowling. I bowled 3 games. My scores were, 101, 87, 95. I seemed to regress during the games. I bowled at least one strike each game. The last game, I did bowl 3 spares in a row. Nobody bowled a turkey. We had fun. Many times, we were close to bowling strikes or spares, but one pin would be left standing. This was the third time I had been bowling this year.

Short Notice Interview

After my appointment at the hospital this morning, I headed over to AU to meet with an advisor for grad school. I am starting back in January. AU doesn't have the program that I want. I am not crazy about taking classes online. What is my goal? IN 10-15 years, I want to be teaching science staff development to elementary education teachers. I want my masters in elementary ed science. The program at AU does allow you to take 15 hours in a concentration of what you want. That will allow me to take hours in science. Plus, I will have to take a couple of classes in curriculum, which will help me to understand how curriculum is written. That will be helpful for me in the future.

While I was meeting the advisor my phone rang, it was on vibrate. My dad called to tell me to call him. I called him, and he gave me a phone number. I called and left a message for this person. I was told to call a principal for a charter school. Their enrollment is up and they are looking to hire a couple of teachers at the last minute. I talked to her about 10:40 am and scheduled an appointment for noon. I went home to change clothes and get a resume packet and a scrapbook. This opening is for 4th grade-self contained. Having little experience being self-contained is a mark against me. They use FOSS (doesn't cover all of the objectives to be taught, okay), which I used in Dallas. That is a mark for me. The principal had some other interviews and hopes to make the decision by Monday morning. School starts on Monday.

Will see what comes from this.

Interview, What Interview?

I was supposed to have a phone interview this morning at 10 am. I was home by 9:45 am. Ten o'clock has come and gone, and no phone call. I don't have her phone number to call her. She said she would call if she didn't forget. Teachers started back today in Charlotte. It has me kinda down, all this stuff about Charlotte, the ups and downs. This, no phone call, must be God's way of making sure I know that moving is not part of his plan for me, right now. Who knows, I might still need him to confirm that. I will be kept busy subbing, but I want my own classroom again. I have been feeling melancholy the past couple of weeks, and its due to the Charlotte thing.

It is also due to the fact...WARNING: Vanity popping up!...When I look in the mirror, I see an area where hair is thinning, up front. Mom says it looks like there is also new hair growth in the same area, as well. I will continue loose hair even up to a few months after finishing Interferon. Only 2 months left of injections!!!!!!! YEAH!!!!!!

White blood count is up to 2.1 this week. Platelet is at 125. Have been feeling a little fit of brain fog, and when I stand up, I feel a little out of it, wobbly, like. Those are just side effects, nothing to worry about.

Yesterday's sermon was from Psalms 116, and it was good. Plus, I didn't' yawn during the sermon or Sunday School, and I usually do.

Thank you again for your prayers.

I Think the Door is Closing

I'm not sure, but I think God is closing the door to NC. I'd thought he opened it back in the spring. But with the frustrating problems/phone calls I have had this summer, and no job, looks like God is closing the door. I can't completely tell. I still get phone calls, and think there is a slim chance of moving. My mom doesn't want me to go, and I understand her reasoning. There is also the money issue in moving down there. Where is the money going to come from in renting an apartment, getting situated in both the apartment and in a new school? If this is God's will, then he will provide the money. Plus, there is the issue of my treatment, two months left. Having a hard time in accepting all of this.

Charlotte called yesterday to see if I was still interested. I called back and left a message. This lady called me back this morning, and we talked about what I am interested in teaching. There are still a few openings left down there. Later this afternoon, I received another phone call from a principal. I now have a phone interview this coming Monday morning at 10 am. She wanted to do it at 8:30 am, and I won't be home at that time.

New teacher orientation started yesterday. Teachers go back to work on Monday. There is staff development and time to work in your room next week. They like to ask me how soon can I get down there and if I'm relocating to the Charlotte area. I am only moving if I have a job. I said that I need a couple of days, once I was offered a job. I have to pack, and then I could leave the next day. They are cutting it close.

The new dilemma is knowing if I should accept the job or not if I am offered one. I just don't know now. In making sure I am ready by the 25th, not missing too many injections, and finding an apartment is a lot to think about and do. Lord, what is your will? Is this what you want? Is this from you? Am I just supposed to sub again this school year? I'm having a hard time accepting it and being thankful for all of this school stuff.

If I dont' make sense, it is because I'm having a hard time putting into words what I am thinking and feeling. I am confused.

OBIT: The Animals are Dead

Never shoot a skunk close to the house. Why? You can smell their spray while in the house. A few years ago, my parents heard noise in the ceiling (my bathroom ceiling to be exact). Turned out the visitors were raccoons. They left the proof behind, yellow spots in my ceiling. A few weeks ago, I heard noise in my ceiling, and even saw a couple climb the tree to the roof. The raccoons are back. This time, they are basically sticking to my bed room ceiling. Dad set out the traps, one by the tree in front of the dining room window and one on the back deck.

A few weeks ago, I posted about catching an albino skunk in one of the traps and I posted a pick that I took. The skunk was hadn't died. Was trying to starve it, didn't work. My parents think the skunk was eating the mulch. Temps have cooled down (highs in the 70s) and has rained at times. The other night, in the other trap, an opossum was caught. I took a couple pics yesterday. He bared his teeth and growled at me.

Today, our lovely pets, went bye-bye. (Yes, I was being sarcastic.) Somebody we know came out and killed them both for us. After he shot the skunk, you could smell it in the house. I closed my bedroom windows before hand, so I wouldn't have the smell in my room. Thankfully, now it is raining. Mom says the rain should help get rid of the smell. The trap with the possum was taken to the woods and shot dead. Now, I don't know how my dad is going to trap the raccoons. He will figure it out.

The three pics below are of the albino skunk and the possum.

Birth Verse

Robin Lee Hatcher is one of my favorite authors. (She writes Christian romance.) I just checked her blog at
and her latest post is about something she got from another author, Angela Hunt, about having a birth verse. I went to the link she had and checked to see what my birth verse is. Mine is Hebrews 7:25.

Hebrews 7:25 NIV
Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.

What is your birth verse? I think this is interesting. Here is the link to find out what your birth verse is:


For some reason, the two links are not showing up. Robin Lee Hatcher's blog is http://robinlee.typepad.com and the other website is www.birthverse.com

August Visit

This morning, I had my monthly appointment in seeing my onc. I was in and out of there in about 15 minutes. I lost another 3 pounds, with a total of 51 pounds lost in the past year. I had moved up the appointment a week, cause I thought I was moving this weekend, but I don't think I am at all.

I noticed a new spot, last night, of where I am loosing hair. The hair thinning at greatly slowed down, because of getting it cut short. I have been noticing in the last few weeks, some hair coming out. This new spot is right up front, on the left side of my head. I saw it in the mirror last night. I will be loosing hair through the end of the year, I am very thankful that the hair loss/thinning hasn't been as bad as some people have had while on Interferon.

I am expecting my white blood count to have dropped, and maybe even my platelet count, too. I had a headache that started Monday night and lasted a good 24 hours. I took a pain pill twice on Tuesday, one when I first got up and another one around supper time. had a tickle in my throat for a few days. Actually, I have a small headache right now. That is the thing about the side effects of Interferon, I never know when they will effect me and which ones.

What I Found

This morning, I had a phone interview for a 5th grade math/science position in Charlotte. They do team on the 5th grade and have 6 teachers. They ability group the students, and I have little experience with that. I believe that will be a strike against me, but I think because I have taught 5th science and been on a team, that will help me. Will see...

My white blood count went up from 2.2 to 2.4. My platelet count dropped from about 126 to like 112. I bruise more easily with a low platelet count. Side effects have been pretty minimal, which is good. This evening, I do have a tickle in my throat, and took two vitamin C. I do see my onc this Friday.

My mom and I worked in the basement for a good hour this afternoon. We were going through containers and boxes, deciding what to trash, recycle, keep to stay here, keep but take with me. I still have a bunch of school stuff that would need to go. (No, no job yet, but we are preparing just in case, anyway.) I opened this one file container, and found folders in it. I opened them up, and kinda went through them. I found a sheet of paper, with my NTE scores hand written onto the paper. The NTE is the OH test for teachers to take, who want their teaching certificate. I faxed the scores down to Charlotte late this afternoon. Will see if it helps or not.

More Venting

I called MI this afternoon, and was given a number for a company in MA. This company still has my MI state tests scores for my certification. I had taken those tests before I had finished my course work. I was told how to request the scores. I printed up the necessary forms, and had my dad get me the money order from the bank. Mom mailed it this evening. I will get those scores in about 4 weeks. I did ask them to rush it if possible.

I left a message with somebody in NC about this piece of info. This person called me back and told me to call again once I get my scores in about 4 weeks. If they have any openings at that time, I might get a placement. I am upset, because I wasn't told everything I need to do or get done, when I was in NC back in April.

I would do/send something, get a phone call saying to I need to do this or that. I do it, and get a phone call from somebody else, telling me to do something else. They have all of these people moving down there from OH and other states. I really do not like not being told everything I need to know in advance about something. It upsets me and frustrates me.

So, what am I saying? Those who have been on my mom's side, looks like you have gotten your prayers answered. I think I'm staying here, finishing my treatment here, and subbing here. Still not completely positive about it all.

I do have a phone interview Monday morning, for an elementary position. The Interview is at 11 am. Will see what happens, There is a slim chance on still moving this month. If I don't, I am going to apply to start back on my Master's degree at Akron U.

I think I'm done venting for now. LOL

Frustration: Teaching Certificates

I have received a few phone calls this week from NC, either a principal or someone from human resources. Each HR person asks for something different or telling me what I need to do to complete my file. It is like the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing. Another part of the problem is that I graduated from college in December 1994. I went to school out of state, and at one time, I had three different teaching certificates. I've been trying to get my OH scores from the NTE, but because it has been more than ten years, they have gone bye-bye into thin air. Between all of the moves in the past 12 years, I have lost my OH scores.

I have nothing against the 2001 No Child Left Behind law, and making sure all teachers are highly qualified. But, there is something the federal government didn't take into account, people who initially took their tests and gotten their teaching certificates number of years ago. Maybe they took a break, or are changing states or what, and they need to get a teaching certificate, they need to have proof that they are highly qualified. It is really hard getting that proof.

May 1993, I took my first state test that was needed to get my teaching certificate. I took the secondary ed math one at that time. In January 1994, I took the elementary ed and the science tests. Did my student teaching in the fall of '94 and received my certificate in 1995. By the taking and passing the subject tests, I was certified to teach math and science up to 8th grade. I took the OH test in 1995 and passed the test. By taking the test, and having my MI certificate, I became certified in OH for K-8 and allowed to teach math and science up to the 8th grade. I moved down to TX in August '98. I took the necessary tests during that school year and passed them. With my MI and OH tests and passing the TX state tests, I became certified to teach 1-8 self-contained and math science up to the 8th grade.

Now, there seems like there is hassles in figuring out what I need to do in order to become certified in NC. My OH scores are gone. I have my TX scores. I found out this afternoon, I can request my MI scores. It will take about a month for me to get those scores, though. In TX, I was allowed to teach on a one year emergency teaching certificate, until I could take the tests and get my TX certificate. Don't know if I can teach in NC without my NC teaching certificate. I am certified in two other states. You would think that would be enough. I make phone calls, send faxes, and emails in trying to do what I am supposed to do. I am not being given all of the info that I need, so I am not completely understanding what needs to do be done. So, I am frustrated!

Can't tell if God is opening or closing doors for NC. He has plans to prosper me, not to harm me. (Jeremiah 29:11).

Surgeon

I saw my surgeon this morning. I had actually moved up the appointment by six weeks. He says I look good. The hole looks great and so does my right groin. I do not have to go back, unless I feel I need to. He did tell me a couple of things: 1. About once a week, look at the hole, check it out, because if the melanoma every comes back, it will show up first in the hole, where it was originally. 2. Once I am done loosing the weight I want to loose, I can make an appointment, and they can see about doing surgery with the loose skin there in the hole area. That will be a couple of years yet, though.

My goal in loosing weight, is to loose at least 100 more pounds. That would put me at my high school weight, but still more than I should be for my height. I would love to loose more than that, but will take what I can get.

Have had a few more phone calls from NC. Two offers to teach Kinder or first grade, and I said no. Looks like, probably middle school (6th grade) maybe math. Still don't know yet. I will get in touch with a onc down there, when I know for sure.

Birthday Weekend

Friday, was my 37th birthday. I had to go into town in the morning to have blood drawn and receive my Interferon injection. I receive birthday wishes throughout the day. That night, a small group from my class at church met at Panchos (Mexican place) for supper. We had fun at supper. They even had a cake for me. There were 7 of us, five ladies and two men. I received a great big bag of runts and a AMC gift card,a gift card to a restaurant, a new journal, stickers, and a small frame, and lots of warm wishes. Runts are candy, and I carry a bag of them in my purse, for when my fatigue level goes up. Sucking on a couple of runts is better than drinking pop.

After supper, we drove to a bowling alley to go bowling. 8 people bowled, and we used two lanes. We had so much fun bowling. We were basically evenly matched on both lanes. My first game, I bowled a 104, and like a 92 on the second game. I did throw a couple of strikes and a few spares. A lot of us were robbed of strikes and spares. We laughed and got to know one another more. there is a slide show below about bowling.

Yesterday, I went and spent a good hour with my brother. I did the usual, read to him, gave and received hugs, and sang into his ear. It had been a couple of weeks since I had seen him.

I turned on tv last night around 7 pm, in time for the game to start, and received a big shock. The Cleveland Indians traded Casey Blake to the Dodgers. That was a big mistake. I am very upset with them!!!!!! So what, Blake is going to be 36 next month and is a free agent at the end of the season, he can hit and play defense. Marte can't play nor can he hit. He has been showing that for the past 3 years. Sowers needs to go as well, he can't pitch. I like Mastny, but he hasn't pitched well all season. Do we get anybody who can play now for us? No, all we get from these trades, are prospects. We need people who can play now, not prospects. As you can see, I am not very happy.

This afternoon, my sister and family, an aunt and uncle came over for lunch. We had "The Works", whole roasted chicken, dressing, mashed potatoes for lunch. There was also corn on the cob, which my niece loves, and watermelon to eat. The watermelon was my cake. My gifts, a nice Minnie Mouse teacher figurine, stickers, photo album, clothes, and a new necklace.

I had a nice birthday this year. The only low spot, is the big mistake the Indians made. I should hopefully know later this week, if I am moving down to N.C. or not.

Changes

Today is my 37th birthday. I've been counting down like I do every year. I look forward to my birthday. I usually start the countdown two months in advance. My niece and I both look forward to our birthdays.

I received a phone call late Wednesday afternoon, from Charlotte. My name was taken off the list of the middle school I was supposed to teach 6th grade Language Arts. Because I said that was my weak spot, they decided to try to find me a different position. I'm okay with that. If I am going to be departmentalized, then I need to be teaching my strength, not my weak area.

I was trying to take a nap this afternoon, when my cell phone rang. I missed it and it went to voice mail. I called back, and it was a Principal at a different middle school. She did a quick screening interview. This opening is for 6th science. She said the AP might call me back later and do a full phone interview.

Albino Skunk

My dad has set up a couple of raccoon traps. Raccoons have gotten into my bedroom and bathroom ceiling again. They got up there a few years ago, and I can see on a daily basis the proof they left of them living there. I have yellow spots on my bathroom ceiling from the raccoons. There is a trap next to the tree in front of my window out front. My dad caught a skunk last night/this morning. This skunk is an albino skunk, white with a black strip down the middle. I took a pic of it in the cage, and found a pick of one and a regular skunk online. My dad needs to decide what to do with the skunk. As long as he is in the cage/trap, the skunk can not spray anybody, because he can not get his tail up all the way, so he can spray.

I'm moving!!!!!!!!!

Charlotte, NC here I come! I received a phone call this morning from Charlotte. I've been assigned a school for this coming school year. I will be teaching 6th grade at a middle school in Huntersville, NC. I've been assigned to teach language arts. That is a joke! I laughed, while I was on the phone this morning when I was told language arts. I apologized to the lady, saying I wasn't trying to be rude, but writing and grammar is my weak spot. My strengths are science, math, and social studies. I can do reading, I've been big on reading passages when I taught science in Dallas. Hopefully, the subject area is not definite.

There is paperwork to do on my end and their end. My teaching certificate for NC will be for K-6. I was printing up some forms this morning, but I need help in figuring out where they are to be sent to. I've been doing things online, and making phone calls. I've left a message for this onc in Charlotte, because I have to transfer my care to someone down there. I moved up my appointment with my onc here by a week, from the 15th to the 8th. I will take a break again in taking Interferon, don't know for how long.

Will be leaving Friday, August 8, or Saturday, August 9 for NC. I already have word in with an apartment locator so that I can can look at apartments that weekend, choose one and move in, hopefully, August 11 or 12. New Teacher Orientation is August 13-15. Teachers start back on August 18, and students start back on August 25.

There is a lot to do. Have to think about what clothes to pack. Pack up my scrapbooking supplies. Work in the basement, figure out what school supplies and other school stuff I want to take with me. Figure out what other stuff I will need to take with me. Both of my parents will be moving me down there, because of needing to take my furniture down there.

I am excited about this, if you can't tell. I get the joy of looking for a church this fall. I haven't told the school district that I am in treatment for cancer. I have just under 3 months left of Interferon injections. I don't want to go too long without injections, because of teaching all day and getting used to the interferon again is not fun. Won't know until I get down there who will do the injections.

Thank you for your prayers during the past two years in looking for a job and then being diagnosed with cancer. I still need prayers. Father thank you for all of this.

Quick Interview

I had a phone call this afternoon, from a principal at an elementary school in Charlotte. He asked me about my teaching experience, my strengths, relating to my students, and job availability up here. That is it. Short and sweet. Basically, no news about a job in N.C.

July Onc Visit

I saw my onc this morning. I have lost another 6 pounds in the past month. That is now a total of 48 pounds in the past year that I have lost. He made a comment about my weight loss this morning, the first time. I told him that I am trying to loose weight. He said loosing it in the increments I am is good. He also told me, I should switch over to diet pop. I like pop too much to give it up, but I have cut back on it. I don't mind drinking diet Dr. P or diet 7up, not sure about diet Pepsi. I do better some days than I do other days.

For the past few days, I've been worried about getting a bad report on my scans, so I rode into town with mom just in case. Scans are good. They are the same as last time. There are still tiny nodules in my lungs, and they haven't grown. My onc did say that my spleen is slightly enlarged. He doesn't know why, and he isn't going to do anything about it right now. Since I am not showing any symptoms, he will not have it taken out.

I did have a headache yesterday, first one in 10 days. I didn't take anything til about 4 pm. My biggest complaint is the fatigue. I do get headaches, my temp does go up a bit, and my stomach bothers me. Those are my side effects.

From this good news, I am still NED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have been NED for almost 10 months.

My counts are doing fine, nothing to worry about. I did talk to the onc about moving to NC. He said it is no problem, if I do. I see him again on August 15, if I don't' move. My next set of scans will be at the end of October, within a month after finishing up Interferon.

July Indians Game

After loosing ten games in a row, the Indians won Thursday night, Friday night, and last night and again today. The Indians swept Tampa Bay. My mom and I went to the game last night. We sat in the bleachers, never again. You can't look at the Jumbo Tron, or see clearly what Grady and Ben are doing in making their catches. Both Grady Seizemore and Ryan Garko hit 2 run home runs last night. Ginter game up from Buffalo to pitch and he earned the win. When Ginter left the game, we were shutting out the Rays. Bullpen came out and gave up four runs. The final score was 8-4, in our favor.

After the game was Rockin Blast 08 part 2. There was a choir singing rock songs. That doesn't work. A couple of country songs were sung. There were lasers and fireworks. We had to move, but had a hard time finding a place to sit/stand to watch the fireworks. I had a hard time taking pics of the fireworks. The Indians put on good firework shows, but I didn't like last night's very well. I've seen them do better shows. The slide show shows some of the pics I took last night during the show.

Akron Zoo

My niece and I spent a few hours at the Akron Zoo today. The weather was perfect, not too hot. We both sprayed sunscreen on before leaving the house. The newest animals at the zoo were jellyfish. I've been wanting to see them. B was able to climb this climbing wall and she touched a sea urchin. Not all jellyfish have tentacles, and they kinda look like flowers. They were kinda cool looking. There are penguins, lions, tiger, snow leopard, jaguar, sun bear, tortoise, komodo dragon, deer, pony, red panda, bald eagle, lemurs, snakes, frogs, sheep, rabbits, and a few more animals at the zoo. This zoo tries to have animals that you might not always find at other zoos. They do have the world's largest rodent. I didn't take pics of every animal, because of the widows and they are hard to take pics through. We had a nice time at the zoo. Down below is a slide show I made of pics that I took today.

Fourth of July

Today America is 232 years old. Happy Birthday USA! Thank you to all the soldiers who are out there fighting for our freedom.