My friend is on the tail end of her cancer treatments - Praise God! She has two treatments remaining and she is counting down the days and weeks until she can walk out of the Infusion Center for! good!
Today I drove her to her weekly immunity boost appointment. It was a quick procedure and she is amazing. I know that once someone has done something so many times they can no longer count the times, and when someone has been through so much with surgery, radiation, and chemo ... one shot perhaps is no big deal. I would like to think that I would be so brave and capable as my friend was today. Simply amazing - her courage.
They hooked her up to a heart rate monitor and I'm sure her pulse and results were much more calm than mine. Just the thought of my friend about to be shot in the stomach with vitamins got my blood pumping. She was her usual self making conversation and cute one liners with the nice Infusion Center nurse.
She said the shot is painful; it stings like a bee. But as soon as he was done with the procedure, she just got up and started walking out the door. She was done. I turned to her and asked her if she wanted to just chill out in the chair for a bit. She laughed and said it was okay. I think she's had enough of those chairs and rooms.
My mom has been a volunteer in the Infusion Center every Wednesday during the summer. I applaud her courage to see patients who are very ill on a weekly basis, to comfort them, to be of service to them. My friend does not 'look' like she is ill. However, I know what 'ill' looks like when my friend's husband battled and lost. It is not a comforting feeling, it is raw, painful, hard.
I'm thankful my mom can do it - she can walk in and brighten their day - and leave. She can think and pray for her contacts during the week, and check back the next to know that they are still there; getting better. One day I know there will be a Cure - and what a joyous day that will be. But for now, I am glad to know that there are a team of people, employeed and volunteered, to care for those that need the support.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Keeping it Real
I'm tired.
But extremely happy.
Our new little four legged friend is just a gem, and we are so grateful and blessed for her arrival into our life for the next year and a half. Our learning about serving others through CCI has already been incredible during our first week of officially being in the program. Too much to really capture yet into words. I'm still trying to process it all. One day it will come out on a post.
My girl resumed dance lessons this evening. Her dance class now starts dancing twice a week; Thursday and Saturday for us. We got her new ballet shoes a week ago. Her favorite brand, just the next size up. The wonderful lady at the dance store where we have routinely visited for the past five years mentioned that her left foot was a little different in size than her right foot. "Please let your instructor know that I was aware of this when I fit your new ballet shoes." was the sweet woman's comment.
Shoe checks were the first order of business. I was outside on the sidewalk with Haddie when I saw my girl's instructor poke her head from behind the open door and jokingly said, "Hey, bring that cute pup over here." in her adorable British accent. I thought she wanted to see the dog. Nope. She needed to chat with me about my girl's feet.
What you don't want to hear from your Ballet Instructor ~ ... you need to get your daughter into her doctor right away; her left foot is not in proper alignment, it is really rolling, she'll need to get a specialist to view it as this could cause serious issues with her knee .... the voice trailed off and I stood there thinking ... well, actually I really was just at a loss for words. How could we have missed it? Was this a result of her injury last June when she was stepped on - although that was her right foot, and this is her left foot, but maybe she has been favoring it because it did take an incredibly long time to heal that right toe. Or it could be a result of her hyper-extension of her joints, and maybe it just has gone wrong during her growth spurt, and how bad is bad, and etc. etc. etc.
I walked out with pup in my arms (I wasn't about to risk a puppy mess indoors and held her during our conversation), and while this was not even close to an end of a dance career chat, it is still a bad timing issue. This is the year the girls are watched and granted Pointe Shoes when deemed ready. Sigh. I feel a long road is ahead of us.
My girl is not thrilled and some tears were shed on the way home. Initial shock is always hard to hear when you are not expecting such a conversation to Welcome you back. But we both agreed how fortunate we are that her instructor saw and brought it to our attention (ie - the sweet ballerina's parent's had No Clue!). Her teachers really is fantastic in so many ways, so it really didn't surprise us in that regard. My girl ended last dance season with an unfortunate, scary, stressful injury 48 hours before the big dance recital ... only to enter this dance season with a potential issue that could take time.
Keeping it Real ... tired and thankful wrapped up into one ...
But extremely happy.
Our new little four legged friend is just a gem, and we are so grateful and blessed for her arrival into our life for the next year and a half. Our learning about serving others through CCI has already been incredible during our first week of officially being in the program. Too much to really capture yet into words. I'm still trying to process it all. One day it will come out on a post.
My girl resumed dance lessons this evening. Her dance class now starts dancing twice a week; Thursday and Saturday for us. We got her new ballet shoes a week ago. Her favorite brand, just the next size up. The wonderful lady at the dance store where we have routinely visited for the past five years mentioned that her left foot was a little different in size than her right foot. "Please let your instructor know that I was aware of this when I fit your new ballet shoes." was the sweet woman's comment.
Shoe checks were the first order of business. I was outside on the sidewalk with Haddie when I saw my girl's instructor poke her head from behind the open door and jokingly said, "Hey, bring that cute pup over here." in her adorable British accent. I thought she wanted to see the dog. Nope. She needed to chat with me about my girl's feet.
What you don't want to hear from your Ballet Instructor ~ ... you need to get your daughter into her doctor right away; her left foot is not in proper alignment, it is really rolling, she'll need to get a specialist to view it as this could cause serious issues with her knee .... the voice trailed off and I stood there thinking ... well, actually I really was just at a loss for words. How could we have missed it? Was this a result of her injury last June when she was stepped on - although that was her right foot, and this is her left foot, but maybe she has been favoring it because it did take an incredibly long time to heal that right toe. Or it could be a result of her hyper-extension of her joints, and maybe it just has gone wrong during her growth spurt, and how bad is bad, and etc. etc. etc.
I walked out with pup in my arms (I wasn't about to risk a puppy mess indoors and held her during our conversation), and while this was not even close to an end of a dance career chat, it is still a bad timing issue. This is the year the girls are watched and granted Pointe Shoes when deemed ready. Sigh. I feel a long road is ahead of us.
My girl is not thrilled and some tears were shed on the way home. Initial shock is always hard to hear when you are not expecting such a conversation to Welcome you back. But we both agreed how fortunate we are that her instructor saw and brought it to our attention (ie - the sweet ballerina's parent's had No Clue!). Her teachers really is fantastic in so many ways, so it really didn't surprise us in that regard. My girl ended last dance season with an unfortunate, scary, stressful injury 48 hours before the big dance recital ... only to enter this dance season with a potential issue that could take time.
Keeping it Real ... tired and thankful wrapped up into one ...
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
First Day of School
The house has been all abuzz with the first day of school recounts. I would say in a nutshell that the kids would give their day a thumbs up. They like their teacher(s), they have a handful of friends to keep the day going well, and the logistics of learning about the teachers, and hearing the classroom expectations, did not seem to wear them out too terribly much on this warm day.
The "Ehh" to the day was learning of some rule changes at the Middle School level. There is a new Principal to the district in the building. Change can be frustrating and challenging, but we are prayerful that it'll all iron itself out on either side. It is just the initial shock of change, I think, that we are wrestling with. Nothing major in the big scheme of life, but more a crimp in the style in which the students will be growing. We are trying to give him a fair chance ~ the verdict is still out whether this will eventually be a positive, or real bummer.
The elementary school level proved to be the same, with a really fantastic teacher with a great sense of humor. Even though my son's closest buddies are in different classrooms, they found each other at lunch and recesses to bridge the gap. I'm not worried about my laid back son, he too will have a great year building new friendships.
Ever get those days when everything changes at once, and you can hardly sit down or concentrate? I am having that kind of evening. Bouncing from one child's story to the other, allowing equal sharing, conversing more in depth with one another, sharing ideas, stories rattling Ad-Lib'd at a mile a minute, reading over paperwork that needs signatures, checks that need to be written, dinner, dogs, slight headache, lack of concentration ... Whew!!! Tired, but Happy the day went so well for my kiddos.
First Day of School ~ welcome successful year ahead!!
The elementary school level proved to be the same, with a really fantastic teacher with a great sense of humor. Even though my son's closest buddies are in different classrooms, they found each other at lunch and recesses to bridge the gap. I'm not worried about my laid back son, he too will have a great year building new friendships.
First Day of School ~ welcome successful year ahead!!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Last Day Of Summer
I can not believe that our summer is over. Even though our weather was lacking in a steady summer pattern, the kids did not let that get in their way and spent more time outside than in previous summers. Maybe it was a blessing we are just realizing. When the weather is not hot, then the kids are not hot, which makes hang out (play) much more fun.
It was a nice summer. I am going to miss it.
I will miss the lazy days, the no homework pressure, the no zipping from one activity and commitment to another, the lack of school drama, the alarm clock never being set, the watch that sat in my drawer for the past 11 weeks, the freedom to vacation to new destinations; I could go on and on.
But I am also looking forward to the cozy fireplace nights, the homework quietness of the house, the football games on television (yes, I admit I like it - even though it is just background noise to me), the growth of our kiddos in their activities, the great friendships that get revisited during the year, the unknown of the winter weather, the excitement for all the upcoming holidays and celebrations; I could go on and on.
We celebrated with a stop at the Frozen Yogurt Shop. It was in the mid-80's today. Aww, the perfect ending to "summer". Tomorrow we will rise with the excitement of a freshly packed backpack of school supplies, new clothes and shoes, and the first day of school jitters.
Praying for a good night's sleep for all of us, and for a fantastic 2011-2012 school year.
It was a nice summer. I am going to miss it.
I will miss the lazy days, the no homework pressure, the no zipping from one activity and commitment to another, the lack of school drama, the alarm clock never being set, the watch that sat in my drawer for the past 11 weeks, the freedom to vacation to new destinations; I could go on and on.
But I am also looking forward to the cozy fireplace nights, the homework quietness of the house, the football games on television (yes, I admit I like it - even though it is just background noise to me), the growth of our kiddos in their activities, the great friendships that get revisited during the year, the unknown of the winter weather, the excitement for all the upcoming holidays and celebrations; I could go on and on.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
13th Birthday Party
We are grateful that both sides of our family live so close to us. We have been able to watch all of our nieces and nephew grow up - every stage of their life. All four grandparents have been active in their grandchildren's lives. We get together often, but holidays and celebrations are our go-to events as a family.
Yesterday the girls woke after a quick five-ish hour of sleep from the sleepover party. I give them tons of applause for being so quiet and respectful - as I was shocked when I heard the hour they exchanged talking with sleep. I really thought they had turned off the lights much sooner by the decrease in the volume from the previous hours. Yay Girls - thanks for having tons of late night fun, but leaving your Aunt and Uncle out of it (Ha!).
The family barbecue started at 1:00pm with temps in the 80's. We enjoyed talking as adults, and with the kiddos. It is fun that the kids are of age to carry on continued conversation and everyone enjoying time together.
The birthday girl appreciated all her gifts! The giggle part was that all of the items went together, with out the gifter knowing in advance! Clothes from her Auntie went perfectly with a hat and accessories from her Aunt. A hat box (with money inside) from her Grandma and Grandpa was the essential to her new hat! A Starbucks water glass was the top notch item to go with her additional shopping spree of gift money from her Mono and Grandad. What FUN for a 13 year old chicka!
My girl was tired, but hung in there for as long as possible. She had a fabulous two days of celebrating. About twenty minutes after the last party guest closed the door, she fell asleep. Because it was close enough to a "real" bedtime, we nudged her awake, fed her some dinner, and kept her entertained for a few more hours before heading to her own bed.
Thank you, Family, for celebrating the birthday of our girl. Many things contribute to her confidence, but one major ingredient is her solid foundation of support, and love, and mentoring from her extended family. Thank you for investing in her. Thank you for your love.
Friday, September 2, 2011
It's a party ...
Just jumping on quick to say that there is A PARTY GOING ON over here!!
My girl turns 13!!! on the 12th of September. A teenager soon to be under our wings.
With the start of school and all the activities that the first week entails, we decided to host the party this weekend in order to avoid as many conflicts as possible. Any day is a good day for a Teen to have close friends over to celebrate.
Typically, we go "all out" on the birthday theme parties - just check back to prior posts in early September and October to see what I am referring to. But this year, my girl just wanted it to be simple. She wanted a traditional and grown up party - with no theme.
Okay, there is one theme - Zebra Stripes and Hot Pink!!! Other than that, no theme to what the girls have planned. It's all about talking nonstop and doing what girls do - more talking with lots of giggles.
The sweet thing about this party is that my girl will always remember who attended her 13th Birthday Party. Rather than inviting her friends, who may come and go throughout her lifetime, she chose to invite the people in her life who she knows will always be there for her, and with her. Her cousins. Love that!
So while the girls are doing their thing - I am enjoying time remembering every one of these cute girls - where they started as just wee ones, to where they are as young ladies who have everything going for them. They are well balanced, smart, funny, caring, sweet girls. So blessed!
It's a party ....
My girl turns 13!!! on the 12th of September. A teenager soon to be under our wings.
With the start of school and all the activities that the first week entails, we decided to host the party this weekend in order to avoid as many conflicts as possible. Any day is a good day for a Teen to have close friends over to celebrate.
Typically, we go "all out" on the birthday theme parties - just check back to prior posts in early September and October to see what I am referring to. But this year, my girl just wanted it to be simple. She wanted a traditional and grown up party - with no theme.
Okay, there is one theme - Zebra Stripes and Hot Pink!!! Other than that, no theme to what the girls have planned. It's all about talking nonstop and doing what girls do - more talking with lots of giggles.
The sweet thing about this party is that my girl will always remember who attended her 13th Birthday Party. Rather than inviting her friends, who may come and go throughout her lifetime, she chose to invite the people in her life who she knows will always be there for her, and with her. Her cousins. Love that!
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| L to R: 6th grade, 9th grade, 7th grade, 8th grade, 7th grade |
It's a party ....
Thursday, September 1, 2011
School Schedule
Our school district does not open until Tuesday, but today was the day they turned on the computer system for students to check their schedules. There has been lots of texting going on in our household between my girl and her friends.
Being the first born, my girl and I don't know the 7th grade teachers. So ... while I would like to know the quality of the staff, my girl is not interested in that 411, and is (rightly so) all about knowing which friend is on which team of teachers. My girl is thrilled with each new text message that comes in that has a match for her team titled Team Excellence.
With each squeal, I just pray that she will not loose focus on academics. Things are so far looking good in the social department.
My girl has a new friend joining the ranks of seventh grade. She is my bloggy-friend and real-friend's daughter who is transferring into the school. Today was New Student and Sixth Grade Orientation day. My girl went to help her new friend get all the scoop about the halls, teachers, Dean of Students, all that stuff.
In all honesty, I thought they did not prove the most welcoming to New Students as my friend did not receive as warm of a welcome as I had hoped.Most everything was tailored to the incoming class of sixth graders. Too bad.
But - the girls seemed to enjoy their time comparing schedules and walking the route. My friend and I enjoyed standing in line, and another line, and another line paying the bills and getting things in order for sports. But what better time to stand in line than with a friend!
Oh, and she brought her sweeeeeet baby girl that I got to flirt with from her Mamma's arms. This is the sweet pea that came home two weeks ago. She is such a happy girl and a true beauty. It was a definite good morning for all the girls!
Best wishes to a great 7th grade school year, Girls!!!
Being the first born, my girl and I don't know the 7th grade teachers. So ... while I would like to know the quality of the staff, my girl is not interested in that 411, and is (rightly so) all about knowing which friend is on which team of teachers. My girl is thrilled with each new text message that comes in that has a match for her team titled Team Excellence.
With each squeal, I just pray that she will not loose focus on academics. Things are so far looking good in the social department.
My girl has a new friend joining the ranks of seventh grade. She is my bloggy-friend and real-friend's daughter who is transferring into the school. Today was New Student and Sixth Grade Orientation day. My girl went to help her new friend get all the scoop about the halls, teachers, Dean of Students, all that stuff.
In all honesty, I thought they did not prove the most welcoming to New Students as my friend did not receive as warm of a welcome as I had hoped.
But - the girls seemed to enjoy their time comparing schedules and walking the route. My friend and I enjoyed standing in line, and another line, and another line paying the bills and getting things in order for sports. But what better time to stand in line than with a friend!
Best wishes to a great 7th grade school year, Girls!!!
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