I just finished transferring all those important dates to remember, from our 2012 calendar to our brand new 2013 calendar. This year the new calendar has been provided by our Quebec grandkids. Each month we get to see a new set of their pictures so along with birthdays, anniversaries and some of those "remarkable days" we will see their smiling faces.
Ah yes, those remarkable days include the passing on dates of loved ones, the date we left the farm for the last time, the date that Tim fell, the date we arrived in Calgary to begin our life as Calgarians and the date we received the diagnosis of multiple myeloma for Bob. The anniversary of that diagnosis will be 5 years in July of this new year.
My younger .........and only sister has been reminding me that I haven't written anything since Aug. and she is correct. I had a hard time getting to this site today. Since my computer savvy isn't near a ten, I had to spend some time looking up passwords and trying to skip over some new safety "things" but I am here and hopefully someone will be able to read this post.
As I turned the pages of 2012 it was a time of remembering people, events and some of the tough situations our family is and has been dealing with. Makes me feel somewhat melancoly but along with that I also recognize anew some of the ways that God answered prayer, cared for us and blessed us.
Bob's Journey is the name of the blog so as the months were turned I realized that this myeloma really hasn't changed much. Each month notes trips to the oncologist, or to a GP, to a lab or to a radiology department. This has been ongoing for the whole year. I had been of the thought that maybe this routine would change somehow-----that we could go back to our old normal. However just like Tim and Barbie and their reality, Bob and I have to come to grips with what is now, our life. It is a learning process and often not easy or very acceptable. Yet I am thrilled and thankful that Bob is still here and able to go to the doctors and tests. So......nothing of great, hugeness stands out that I have been able to blog about. I am realizing, that is good, but I should still keep up with letting all of you know that, even if the news is mundane.
Next trip to the lab is tomorrow--Sunday the 30th. Oncologist on the 2 of Jan. last year was the 6 of Jan!!!!!!!!!!! This trip has some concerns as Bob is experiencing much more pain in his back as well as the pain he has had in his side. Bob is also more tired but some of that could be pain meds. We are trusting that there will be some answers for the pain and a plan to follow.
Each new year provides new opportunities, new ways to live our lives. As this new year is about to ring in my goal is to live a life of giving grace to others--- the way that Jesus gives each of us His grace.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Saturday, August 25, 2012
JOURNEY TO THE DENTIST
Well, it was time for both of us to make trips to the dentist. We have insurance but it still is a tough trip to make. I think it must have been all those years of going only when necessary because ouch, no insurance. I think these dental folks just love people with coverage and I truly do believe that everything is priced accordingly. Since we have made this trip and have seen the bills I know why a large number of folks would have to save a long time for trip to the dentist. Yikes, if work on your teeth is needed you would have to take out a second mortgage. However I digress.
Bob needed work and so we made a journey to a new type of (to us) doctor. This is a dental surgeon. The dentist thought this was best because of all Bob's health issues. This young man was so gracious. He checked and double checked everything including whether Bob had lesions on the jaw. Bob had 3 teeth removed--all in a row from the wisdom tooth forward. Today the young surgeon phoned to check on Bob--making sure the bleeding stopped in good time and what the pain was like. Impressed with this doc and our new dentist as well---maybe all this great patient care is because of the prices that are charged. Now we will wait to see the denturist who will come to our dentists office--in the evening!!!!$$$$$$
That was the journey of the month!!!!
We did not receive any PET scan news from a month ago. This time no letters regarding radiation have come so we are assuming all is well. The upcoming week is test week again---can't believe how fast time is flying by.
Tim has been put on the wait list for surgery re: the pressure sore--there goes the winter for them. Pray that the wait will be short and the healing fast.
I have only two weeks until school starts and guess what? only 4 months to Christmas.
Bob needed work and so we made a journey to a new type of (to us) doctor. This is a dental surgeon. The dentist thought this was best because of all Bob's health issues. This young man was so gracious. He checked and double checked everything including whether Bob had lesions on the jaw. Bob had 3 teeth removed--all in a row from the wisdom tooth forward. Today the young surgeon phoned to check on Bob--making sure the bleeding stopped in good time and what the pain was like. Impressed with this doc and our new dentist as well---maybe all this great patient care is because of the prices that are charged. Now we will wait to see the denturist who will come to our dentists office--in the evening!!!!$$$$$$
That was the journey of the month!!!!
We did not receive any PET scan news from a month ago. This time no letters regarding radiation have come so we are assuming all is well. The upcoming week is test week again---can't believe how fast time is flying by.
Tim has been put on the wait list for surgery re: the pressure sore--there goes the winter for them. Pray that the wait will be short and the healing fast.
I have only two weeks until school starts and guess what? only 4 months to Christmas.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Saskatchewan
The laundry is all done, we have slept for two nights in our bed, there weren't any new doctor appointments or calls so we are off---just the two of us. This time we are heading east out of the mountains and trees and into the flat prairie land of Saskatchewan. We are going to Saskatoon to see our son and daughter-in-law and their two babies--Maksim and Nicolai (Maks and Nic). Taylor, our granddaughter, was away visiting her nanna and family.
It was most breath taking seeing the yellow canola fields against the endless blue prairie sky. Hadn't see the crazy gophers playing chicken on the highway for a long time. Here in Calgary we see their city cousins on our cul de sac hurrying from under one porch to the next. Our area smells like my grandmothers' attic closets--lots of moth balls. We seem to think that will keep them away, haven't seen a gopher lately but my sweaters will be safe.
Our kids have just rented a new place where they are hoping to stay for a loooong time. We needed to see this place they call home. The house is lovely with lots of room for everyone and very unique floor plan. The yard is lots of work. The last occupants let everything outside go back to nature!!!!!! We helped cut grass and pull weeds. It was fun to work outside and help get this place on the road to being ship shape. The biggest gift and delight of this visit is the fact that God is doing a work in Mike and Cori's lives. They are working hard at staying on track and finding how the Lord wants them to live their lives. Lots of baggage and consequences to deal with,- yep---like forever, but loved the determination they have as a couple to make things right and honor the Lord. We are trusting that they will not get waylaid in any way. In the book of Lamentations in the Bible there are verses that say we have hope "Because of God's great love we are not consumed for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning:; great is your faithfulness." We are choosing to trust the Lord for Mike and Cori.
Each day we were in Saskatoon we watched the clouds build as the heat of the day became intense. The wind would pick up and then the driving rain along with the thunder and lightening--usually right after dark. Loved those thunder storms--don't see that here at home. But Bob and I both were thinking the same thing--what is the damage to the crops? the hay will have another rain on it, the quality will be so poor, will the hay ever dry. The cows will be walking in so much mud---they'll all get infections....
We saw several farm yards where folks were re shingling their roofs, painting and lots of cutting grass on the big ride on lawn mowers. Waiting for the hay to dry and the crop to ripen you gotta do the fixing and repairing. We could feel the tension (a wee bit) that we had felt for all those years farming and that is when we decided we should only go east before seeding or after harvest!!!!
All these thoughts also made us realize how important it is for these retired farmers to go to the "office" regularly whether it be Tim Hortons or McDs. The times change so much from one generation to another that you need to be able to share with others who "get it"--how the weather affects so much of a farmers life, what the changing seasons mean, how new rules and regulations change what you are doing and how they affect your operation. We talked to Uncle Henry about milk quota and how that is changing because he shared our passed experiences in the dairy industry. So each new generation of farmers or whatever occupation we choose needs to have that connection to those who "get them"....Light bulb moment.
We saw, what we are assuming is, a huge farm. A very large shop with a number of grain bins were situated in a yard--kinda --the grass all around was cut. There were three big travel trailers with all the pull and push outs all set up in a semi permanent setting. The big trucks were parked closer to the shop. Our deduction: this was a new generation of farmers. They were here to do the summer work, take the crop off and then load up and head south for the winter. We thought it would be great if it worked--so many variables----they gotta start getting to the office!! and check out prices and when the grain can be moved...sheesh--oh, this generation probably has a lot of that covered by computer, maybe they will only text their cohorts.
Home again, Home again----------------test week for Bob and the journey continues.
It was most breath taking seeing the yellow canola fields against the endless blue prairie sky. Hadn't see the crazy gophers playing chicken on the highway for a long time. Here in Calgary we see their city cousins on our cul de sac hurrying from under one porch to the next. Our area smells like my grandmothers' attic closets--lots of moth balls. We seem to think that will keep them away, haven't seen a gopher lately but my sweaters will be safe.
Our kids have just rented a new place where they are hoping to stay for a loooong time. We needed to see this place they call home. The house is lovely with lots of room for everyone and very unique floor plan. The yard is lots of work. The last occupants let everything outside go back to nature!!!!!! We helped cut grass and pull weeds. It was fun to work outside and help get this place on the road to being ship shape. The biggest gift and delight of this visit is the fact that God is doing a work in Mike and Cori's lives. They are working hard at staying on track and finding how the Lord wants them to live their lives. Lots of baggage and consequences to deal with,- yep---like forever, but loved the determination they have as a couple to make things right and honor the Lord. We are trusting that they will not get waylaid in any way. In the book of Lamentations in the Bible there are verses that say we have hope "Because of God's great love we are not consumed for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning:; great is your faithfulness." We are choosing to trust the Lord for Mike and Cori.
Each day we were in Saskatoon we watched the clouds build as the heat of the day became intense. The wind would pick up and then the driving rain along with the thunder and lightening--usually right after dark. Loved those thunder storms--don't see that here at home. But Bob and I both were thinking the same thing--what is the damage to the crops? the hay will have another rain on it, the quality will be so poor, will the hay ever dry. The cows will be walking in so much mud---they'll all get infections....
We saw several farm yards where folks were re shingling their roofs, painting and lots of cutting grass on the big ride on lawn mowers. Waiting for the hay to dry and the crop to ripen you gotta do the fixing and repairing. We could feel the tension (a wee bit) that we had felt for all those years farming and that is when we decided we should only go east before seeding or after harvest!!!!
All these thoughts also made us realize how important it is for these retired farmers to go to the "office" regularly whether it be Tim Hortons or McDs. The times change so much from one generation to another that you need to be able to share with others who "get it"--how the weather affects so much of a farmers life, what the changing seasons mean, how new rules and regulations change what you are doing and how they affect your operation. We talked to Uncle Henry about milk quota and how that is changing because he shared our passed experiences in the dairy industry. So each new generation of farmers or whatever occupation we choose needs to have that connection to those who "get them"....Light bulb moment.
We saw, what we are assuming is, a huge farm. A very large shop with a number of grain bins were situated in a yard--kinda --the grass all around was cut. There were three big travel trailers with all the pull and push outs all set up in a semi permanent setting. The big trucks were parked closer to the shop. Our deduction: this was a new generation of farmers. They were here to do the summer work, take the crop off and then load up and head south for the winter. We thought it would be great if it worked--so many variables----they gotta start getting to the office!! and check out prices and when the grain can be moved...sheesh--oh, this generation probably has a lot of that covered by computer, maybe they will only text their cohorts.
Home again, Home again----------------test week for Bob and the journey continues.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Vacation Part III
Bob is having a really great journey this summer. He continues to feel well and have enough energy for all that we do. Well!!!!!!, maybe not the parasailing----he he. Good thing that wasn't part of the adventure.
Leaving Nanimo we start out to, at least on the map,to what seems to be the wilderness. Highway 4 traverses the island taking us to the Pacific Rim National Park which on some info is known as a rainforest.
We thought that Coombs was the last of civilization so we stopped to walk through all the tourist shops. Fleetingly saw the goats that live on the roofs. The goats must think humans a rather strange group as we are all standing in the rain and the goats are in their little shelters--the odd goat peeking out to have his picture taken.
Onward ho in the rain and all the very lush green forest along the road. Out of the rain appears Port Alberni-- a very definite town--home to lots of people plus a McDs and Timmies. Yikes the edge of civilization--for real??? On we go up and down, in and out, even an18% grade yikers. It always seemed wet but not always raining--the growth is amazing. We see so many different plants, I was thinking some must have been the ancestors to what we grow in our gardens such as lupins, ferns and foxglove--the ones I could recognize. The road often became a canopy totally covered over with the tree branches. Would trucks really drive here in the winter? We are on the Pacific Ocean--in Ucluelet. Not sure if anyone ever wondered what happened to a large number of the old VW hippie vans or love buggies. I think a large number are in BC and for sure in Ucluelet and Tofino. We have never seen such a large number of those vans in one place------new hippies are thriving out west. We found a motel--actually cabins in Ucluelet----thinking that it would be less expensive to stay in "Ukkie" than in Tofino. The cost was on par with every where else we had been. Those who live in Ucluelet are actually called Ukkies!!!!! This cabin was great and great lady who ran the place. We were right across the street from the Little Beach and found out smack in the centre of the tsunami area. Made us think of the waves that could actually come in from the ocean and then ask for protection from the Lord. We enjoyed it here---wet the whole time but not a real rain more of a mist. Tofino is a neat place. Oh and the best fish and chips ever was at Jiggers in Ucluelet--honestly. The kids thot that the name came from--getting the bill and saying Holy Jiggers!!!!! Jiggers is run out of a truck--van-- so it is all take out. Oh and Tofino is really geared to tourists. Neat to walk the beaches and just be where we've never been before. From what we could see unless one wanted to do ocean fishing or some water sports like kayaking---which one would have to be very good at out there, or parasailing---just enjoy the scenery. We passed on the whale watching as we had two possibly 3 folks apprehensive about going out plus our budget didn't fit with what was required.
Leaving the coast we began our trek to Victoria. Spent some great time there. Did you know that the wax museum was closed? We did some of the harbor stuff and no rain. Crossed over on the ferry early and went all the way to Hope BC so as to avoid the traffic the next day. Great pool--inside, as it was still raining. We cancelled our Hell's Gate trip as the rain was really coming down hard---one of us for sure was not sorry. I think we hooked on one of those clouds when we were up high and it kept us company all day. Last night on the road a great game of Dutch Blitz and fun. Last day---homeward bound and the only day the kids started to get short and snappy with each other. A. got wound up--must be glad to be getting home.
What a special time. We would take the kids again in a heartbeat. Thanks for being great travellers and companions. Next time perhaps a destination holiday and do everything there is to do at that place. All of us got a look at different parts of our great land and perhaps it will help to see new possibilities and opportunities.
NOW time for laundry and a sleep in my own bed.
Leaving Nanimo we start out to, at least on the map,to what seems to be the wilderness. Highway 4 traverses the island taking us to the Pacific Rim National Park which on some info is known as a rainforest.
We thought that Coombs was the last of civilization so we stopped to walk through all the tourist shops. Fleetingly saw the goats that live on the roofs. The goats must think humans a rather strange group as we are all standing in the rain and the goats are in their little shelters--the odd goat peeking out to have his picture taken.
Onward ho in the rain and all the very lush green forest along the road. Out of the rain appears Port Alberni-- a very definite town--home to lots of people plus a McDs and Timmies. Yikes the edge of civilization--for real??? On we go up and down, in and out, even an18% grade yikers. It always seemed wet but not always raining--the growth is amazing. We see so many different plants, I was thinking some must have been the ancestors to what we grow in our gardens such as lupins, ferns and foxglove--the ones I could recognize. The road often became a canopy totally covered over with the tree branches. Would trucks really drive here in the winter? We are on the Pacific Ocean--in Ucluelet. Not sure if anyone ever wondered what happened to a large number of the old VW hippie vans or love buggies. I think a large number are in BC and for sure in Ucluelet and Tofino. We have never seen such a large number of those vans in one place------new hippies are thriving out west. We found a motel--actually cabins in Ucluelet----thinking that it would be less expensive to stay in "Ukkie" than in Tofino. The cost was on par with every where else we had been. Those who live in Ucluelet are actually called Ukkies!!!!! This cabin was great and great lady who ran the place. We were right across the street from the Little Beach and found out smack in the centre of the tsunami area. Made us think of the waves that could actually come in from the ocean and then ask for protection from the Lord. We enjoyed it here---wet the whole time but not a real rain more of a mist. Tofino is a neat place. Oh and the best fish and chips ever was at Jiggers in Ucluelet--honestly. The kids thot that the name came from--getting the bill and saying Holy Jiggers!!!!! Jiggers is run out of a truck--van-- so it is all take out. Oh and Tofino is really geared to tourists. Neat to walk the beaches and just be where we've never been before. From what we could see unless one wanted to do ocean fishing or some water sports like kayaking---which one would have to be very good at out there, or parasailing---just enjoy the scenery. We passed on the whale watching as we had two possibly 3 folks apprehensive about going out plus our budget didn't fit with what was required.
Leaving the coast we began our trek to Victoria. Spent some great time there. Did you know that the wax museum was closed? We did some of the harbor stuff and no rain. Crossed over on the ferry early and went all the way to Hope BC so as to avoid the traffic the next day. Great pool--inside, as it was still raining. We cancelled our Hell's Gate trip as the rain was really coming down hard---one of us for sure was not sorry. I think we hooked on one of those clouds when we were up high and it kept us company all day. Last night on the road a great game of Dutch Blitz and fun. Last day---homeward bound and the only day the kids started to get short and snappy with each other. A. got wound up--must be glad to be getting home.
What a special time. We would take the kids again in a heartbeat. Thanks for being great travellers and companions. Next time perhaps a destination holiday and do everything there is to do at that place. All of us got a look at different parts of our great land and perhaps it will help to see new possibilities and opportunities.
NOW time for laundry and a sleep in my own bed.
Monday, August 6, 2012
Vacation Part II
Kelowna turned out to be a great place. Our hotel had been redone and had lots of room for all of us. We were right in the downtown area, across from the city park and beach. We were right close to the harbor as well........win win. The part that made this stay so very nice were the amazing people who worked at the hotel and willingly helped us out in many ways. The kids pretty much had the pool to themselves probably because of the beach, but our kids are pool people!!!!!
Our friends from MB who we shared life and parenting info with from toddlers to married adults now live on a mountain at Penticton.We had a super visit with them at their mountain top home.
This country of ours has so many climates and land forms in short distances from each other. We experienced the desert from roughly the Penticton area to Kelowna that I thought looked very much like the area in Arizona where we had visited. Since returning home I read somewhere that this area was Canada's only desert. That could very well be, but, I do know that there is also a desert in the Carberry MB area altho very much smaller.
The tom tom that the kids named Mordecai??? got us right to Aunt Margaret's door in White Rock. What a neat place with the boardwalk and pierdown by the water. Makes me think back to 50s movies and Down on the boardwalk sung by Bett Middler. Had a lovely visit with our lovely relatives---aunt and cousins renewing and learning about each others lives. We stayed at what folks call The Pink Palace actually the Pacific Inn. It is very grand and the rooms were very large. Once again the kids had the pool and lovely surrounding area to themselves. They went in early in the am and after a few hours discovered that the seniors from the area come in and have water exercises. The kids were amazed to see how hard some of the seniors worked in the water. Not sure why A looked at Bob and I-----was he suggesting that perhaps we should be more vigorous in our exercise!!!! Time to move on again.
We took the ferry to Nanimo and the kids had total freedom---just meet at the van when the warning is given to return to the vehicles. It was fun for all and a little extra space for everyone.
Nanimo was very special. We stayed 2 nights with Bob's uncle Henry Rempel and aunt Kathleen. They were very generous with their hospitality and time. We had lots of fish to eat and very fresh crab legs that naturally had yummy melted butter and spices to dip them in. Bob helped get the legs out of the shells.The guys all went fishing. We roamed the shore looking for whatever. The house H&K live in overlooks the Strait of Georgia. We planted some flowers for aunt Kathleen. That was the craziest soil ever. I dug the holes and put water into the holes before planting and the water just sat there didn't soak in. This soil is rock--fine rock mind you!!! Anyhow we put the flowers in and I am hoping that they are growing. These flowers are suppose to be ones that the deer won't eat but my oh my sure are a lot of deer roaming those streets. We learned a little about tides and the effects of tides. What affects the tides. We went to Parksville and enjoyed the amazing beach area. The sand sculpture competition was on and the sculptures were totally amazing. It sure wasn't the family spending a day together building a sand castle. Sculptors came from all over to compete. The sculptures will be there until mid Aug. The sculptures are sprayed with a mixture of white glue and water to try and keep them nice. Fortunately we were there right after the judging etc. so they were pristine.
Well once again it is time to move on and see where this road trip takes us to next.
Our friends from MB who we shared life and parenting info with from toddlers to married adults now live on a mountain at Penticton.We had a super visit with them at their mountain top home.
This country of ours has so many climates and land forms in short distances from each other. We experienced the desert from roughly the Penticton area to Kelowna that I thought looked very much like the area in Arizona where we had visited. Since returning home I read somewhere that this area was Canada's only desert. That could very well be, but, I do know that there is also a desert in the Carberry MB area altho very much smaller.
The tom tom that the kids named Mordecai??? got us right to Aunt Margaret's door in White Rock. What a neat place with the boardwalk and pierdown by the water. Makes me think back to 50s movies and Down on the boardwalk sung by Bett Middler. Had a lovely visit with our lovely relatives---aunt and cousins renewing and learning about each others lives. We stayed at what folks call The Pink Palace actually the Pacific Inn. It is very grand and the rooms were very large. Once again the kids had the pool and lovely surrounding area to themselves. They went in early in the am and after a few hours discovered that the seniors from the area come in and have water exercises. The kids were amazed to see how hard some of the seniors worked in the water. Not sure why A looked at Bob and I-----was he suggesting that perhaps we should be more vigorous in our exercise!!!! Time to move on again.
We took the ferry to Nanimo and the kids had total freedom---just meet at the van when the warning is given to return to the vehicles. It was fun for all and a little extra space for everyone.
Nanimo was very special. We stayed 2 nights with Bob's uncle Henry Rempel and aunt Kathleen. They were very generous with their hospitality and time. We had lots of fish to eat and very fresh crab legs that naturally had yummy melted butter and spices to dip them in. Bob helped get the legs out of the shells.The guys all went fishing. We roamed the shore looking for whatever. The house H&K live in overlooks the Strait of Georgia. We planted some flowers for aunt Kathleen. That was the craziest soil ever. I dug the holes and put water into the holes before planting and the water just sat there didn't soak in. This soil is rock--fine rock mind you!!! Anyhow we put the flowers in and I am hoping that they are growing. These flowers are suppose to be ones that the deer won't eat but my oh my sure are a lot of deer roaming those streets. We learned a little about tides and the effects of tides. What affects the tides. We went to Parksville and enjoyed the amazing beach area. The sand sculpture competition was on and the sculptures were totally amazing. It sure wasn't the family spending a day together building a sand castle. Sculptors came from all over to compete. The sculptures will be there until mid Aug. The sculptures are sprayed with a mixture of white glue and water to try and keep them nice. Fortunately we were there right after the judging etc. so they were pristine.
Well once again it is time to move on and see where this road trip takes us to next.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Vacation
Well our journey this month, July, is somewhat different from the regular journey Bob takes each month dealing with cancer------oh, of course I am along for the trip as well!!! This month we took a vacation. We left the city and went on a road trip. What made this journey so very special was the travelling companions that came along. Our three AB grandkids came with us: Colton, Ashton and Emily chose to "hang" with us and go along with the plans that we made---no complaints that we were made aware of either!!!!
Choosing a cheap hotel, online, in a small town, can be well------cheap!!! In the end the continental breakfast with only the two chairs and the mouldy bread moved us out to a restaurant that proved to have a great breakfast.
Fortunately, we could all chuckle and make jokes as we drove away from what had once been a great hotel.
The drive through the mountains that have the valleys and meadows among them always remind me of the story of Heidi. I always really liked the story and can imagine grandpa an Heidi heading up the slope with the goats. Does anyone's kids still read Heidi? I suppose today kids read more "modern" stories but I love to get lost in the stories that I read and Heidi did that for me as a child.
Having been raised in a different time and a different economic situation than what we see looking at all these recreational properties makes Bob and I wonder. My goodness such amazing beautiful places but so far from any major centers. How do folks use these homes? I am sure you can't come out just for weekends!!! So high up in the mountains. Much different from Clear Lake and Oak Lake where our friends had cottages.
Loved coming into the Osoyoos area and seeing the acres and acres of fruit trees. Yum fresh peaches right from the tree-----we followed the tractor that brought them to the fruit stand. I haven't bought a peach back here at home yet, they just seem so hard and have lost the "blush". So exciting to see all the fresh fruit and veggies and oh my so "cheap"!!!! An amazing place to do weight watchers. ;-}. The rain really came down in Osoyoos and the rivers and streams were really high. This is where the area had flooded earlier in spring. We also saw signs that said gleaners were welcome. We thought that was very neat. Made me think of the book of Ruth in the Bible. One never knows what may happen when we are generous like these farmers.
Also lots of history!!!! The kids didn't groan so you can't either. Greenwood BC is where a large number of Japanese-Canadians were moved to when Canada went to war with Japan in 1941. Surprised to see a Sihk temple in Oliver BC--such a small community, but as we travelled north we realized that the signs on many of the farms had changed and I am sure reflect why the temple in Oliver.
Onward to our next hotel in Kelowna--also one of the more affordable places. What will it be like? Will it have wi fi? Will the breakfast be good? Wait for the next installment.
Choosing a cheap hotel, online, in a small town, can be well------cheap!!! In the end the continental breakfast with only the two chairs and the mouldy bread moved us out to a restaurant that proved to have a great breakfast.
Fortunately, we could all chuckle and make jokes as we drove away from what had once been a great hotel.
The drive through the mountains that have the valleys and meadows among them always remind me of the story of Heidi. I always really liked the story and can imagine grandpa an Heidi heading up the slope with the goats. Does anyone's kids still read Heidi? I suppose today kids read more "modern" stories but I love to get lost in the stories that I read and Heidi did that for me as a child.
Having been raised in a different time and a different economic situation than what we see looking at all these recreational properties makes Bob and I wonder. My goodness such amazing beautiful places but so far from any major centers. How do folks use these homes? I am sure you can't come out just for weekends!!! So high up in the mountains. Much different from Clear Lake and Oak Lake where our friends had cottages.
Loved coming into the Osoyoos area and seeing the acres and acres of fruit trees. Yum fresh peaches right from the tree-----we followed the tractor that brought them to the fruit stand. I haven't bought a peach back here at home yet, they just seem so hard and have lost the "blush". So exciting to see all the fresh fruit and veggies and oh my so "cheap"!!!! An amazing place to do weight watchers. ;-}. The rain really came down in Osoyoos and the rivers and streams were really high. This is where the area had flooded earlier in spring. We also saw signs that said gleaners were welcome. We thought that was very neat. Made me think of the book of Ruth in the Bible. One never knows what may happen when we are generous like these farmers.
Also lots of history!!!! The kids didn't groan so you can't either. Greenwood BC is where a large number of Japanese-Canadians were moved to when Canada went to war with Japan in 1941. Surprised to see a Sihk temple in Oliver BC--such a small community, but as we travelled north we realized that the signs on many of the farms had changed and I am sure reflect why the temple in Oliver.
Onward to our next hotel in Kelowna--also one of the more affordable places. What will it be like? Will it have wi fi? Will the breakfast be good? Wait for the next installment.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Harbinger
This word, harbinger, has played around in my head for the last little while. It is a neat word and rolls off of the tongue rather smartly. I had heard it said that the robin is the harbinger of spring. When you think about it there are lots of harbingers in our lives. The other day I saw one and it made me laugh out loud. From the kitchen sink I am able to see Bob come out of the garage when he gets home. On this particular day, he was carrying an orange gallon container. This container had been placed in a majorly translucent bag so the container is very obvious. That is when the word harbinger popped into my head. This orange container is the harbinger of all the upcoming lab tests that Bob needs to have done....again. I am so thankful that the doc keeps him on such a close cancer watch even tho the numbers are low and point to really---no active cancer---those tests come around with such regularity. This is the last week of chemo for this cycle, next week---is test week-- which is the harbinger of the visit to Tom Baker for the test results.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Check up
Today Bob was back at Tom Baker Cancer Center. This was his monthly check up--mostly so he is able to get the chemo drugs for another three weeks. We are so thankful that all the lab work that is done before these appointments--keeps the docs up on what the cancer is doing. Glad to have that watched so closely. All this means that he is almost done the week of being chemo free. We don't miss some of the side affects but the drugs do keep some of the aches and pains in check. This very wet, cold weather could also be the reason that extra pains are showing up. Either way today was positive, some of the markers have dropped a wee bit---so much better than going up!!!!!! He has the appointment for the next PET scan which will be Aug.2. Looks like it could be a calm summer for Bob health wise.
Ta Da---the numbers HGB--145
Monoclonal #1--1.7
Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio--1.14
Ta Da---the numbers HGB--145
Monoclonal #1--1.7
Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio--1.14
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Student Bob
One of the definitions of student, in my old dictionary, is "an attentive and systematic observer". Bob spent last week studying and observing at Mount Royal University. These were full days--8:30-5:00 which is a real stretch to sit for that long each day (stretch-sit??? he he). By Thursday Bob was tired and sore but persevered and finished the course. Bob was in school with nine other people who came from various employment backgrounds. Engineers, a city planner from Ft. St. John who had a dairy farm in western MB???, a couple of building managers, builder reps, and Bob's designation-- operations manager. The course that these folks took was called LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). " The course presents green building concepts and strategies and introduces the ideas and practices that serve as the foundation for more detailed study of green building, particularly as it relates to the green building rating systems of the LEED program and to individual market segments, such as homes, commercial new construction, and neighborhood developments."
Now Bob is studying in order to take a two hour exam that will attest to his knowledge of good environmental practice and skill and reflects his understanding and support of green design, construction, and operations. Passing this exam would give Bob the designation LEED Green Associate. Firstly, this is to help Bob with his job as the buildings, that he is involved with, are slated to undergo testing and research as to how they can become more sustainable. Secondly--it is good for Bob's grey matter. Thirdly--he loves this kind of learning.
Looks like win , win.
Those snickers that I hear from Bob's "old" friends---well I can only say: "Times Change."
Plus Bob was able to get in all of his lab work---works well going to school closer to the hospital!!!!
Now Bob is studying in order to take a two hour exam that will attest to his knowledge of good environmental practice and skill and reflects his understanding and support of green design, construction, and operations. Passing this exam would give Bob the designation LEED Green Associate. Firstly, this is to help Bob with his job as the buildings, that he is involved with, are slated to undergo testing and research as to how they can become more sustainable. Secondly--it is good for Bob's grey matter. Thirdly--he loves this kind of learning.
Looks like win , win.
Those snickers that I hear from Bob's "old" friends---well I can only say: "Times Change."
Plus Bob was able to get in all of his lab work---works well going to school closer to the hospital!!!!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Mercy
Bob is doing well. He takes the chemo and carries on in a really positive way. We found out this weekend--when he forgot to take the dex----that it works better taking it before bed!!!!One of those hit yourself on the forehead days. This way he got to sleep most of Fri. night and then by Sat. night---he could get most of that night cutting the zzzzzzz. Bob will try that again this coming weekend and see how it works out again. The INR is still a bit of a problem. To thin a blood right now and the bruises are showing on his hands and arms. Guess I will need to be more careful where I hit him!!! Now that was a poor attempt at humor.
This Sunday, in church, my Bob was really choked up and very teary. Our son Michael was sitting right next to him--singing and Mike's wife Cori was next--singing and worshiping. This is a huge answer to prayer and for this day we will rejoice and be glad. We continue to ask God to carry on the work that He has begun in Mike and Cori until the day of completion.
Our Pastor preached on the Good Samaritan this Sunday. He used this story that Jesus had told in a new way (to us ). That when we see a need we are to meet it-now and not qualify what we should do, not waiting to discuss it over and over, not fogging the situation up. The concept is simple--if you want to honor God--do it, Jesus did not get caught in the whole who is my neighbor thing. In vs.37 the expert says that the one who had mercy on the samaritan was the neighbor and Jesus says go and do the same. I suppose that each of us look at this sermon in the lens of where our life is at that particular time. For me and for Bob we put all those young couples who organized the party for Tim and Barbie into the group of those who choose to act on a need, honor God and supply love and mercy to another. Those who attended and donated are also part of that group. Our kids are not destitute, but they are in need of love in tangible ways, friends who are not afraid to come along side of them to be an encouragement, to be that friend who will help carry the load and make it lighter. This past weekend was a huge emotional boost to Tim and Barbie and their kids. When the end of the tunnel comes they will have something very special to plan, look forward to and enjoy as a family. That has thrilled our hearts as parents and has encouraged us in so many ways.
We had both of our kids together this weekend and are so grateful for that time together. It does indeed give us full hearts and teary eyes.
This Sunday, in church, my Bob was really choked up and very teary. Our son Michael was sitting right next to him--singing and Mike's wife Cori was next--singing and worshiping. This is a huge answer to prayer and for this day we will rejoice and be glad. We continue to ask God to carry on the work that He has begun in Mike and Cori until the day of completion.
Our Pastor preached on the Good Samaritan this Sunday. He used this story that Jesus had told in a new way (to us ). That when we see a need we are to meet it-now and not qualify what we should do, not waiting to discuss it over and over, not fogging the situation up. The concept is simple--if you want to honor God--do it, Jesus did not get caught in the whole who is my neighbor thing. In vs.37 the expert says that the one who had mercy on the samaritan was the neighbor and Jesus says go and do the same. I suppose that each of us look at this sermon in the lens of where our life is at that particular time. For me and for Bob we put all those young couples who organized the party for Tim and Barbie into the group of those who choose to act on a need, honor God and supply love and mercy to another. Those who attended and donated are also part of that group. Our kids are not destitute, but they are in need of love in tangible ways, friends who are not afraid to come along side of them to be an encouragement, to be that friend who will help carry the load and make it lighter. This past weekend was a huge emotional boost to Tim and Barbie and their kids. When the end of the tunnel comes they will have something very special to plan, look forward to and enjoy as a family. That has thrilled our hearts as parents and has encouraged us in so many ways.
We had both of our kids together this weekend and are so grateful for that time together. It does indeed give us full hearts and teary eyes.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Forward Ho
Not sure if it is just me or is everyone feeling a little uptight today. I wonder if we are all waiting for this HUGE spring storm that is being forecast for over the Easter weekend.
I had an awesome time at school this week celebrating the Easter story with our preschoolers. It was so special that they seemed to truly understand that Easter is more than chocolate bunnies. We have an amazing God who truly is alive, He didn't stay dead.. That is a huge truth to be able to grab hold of especially if you are 4 or 5 years old.
We are truly thankful to our Lord today as Bob has spent the day doing all the medical things that keep us keep on keeping on. At 7:00 am he was at Tom Baker receiving the aredia by intravenous. After lunch he was at the lab for the INR blood sample. Then back across the city to Tom Baker Cancer Centre to meet with Dr. Bahlis. Whooohooo no Dr. Bahlis--Bob met with the resident doctor---always a good sign.
All continues to be well for Bob. It was decided that the next PET scan will now be put back 4 months--good sign.
For those who get the numbers: HGB--146, Platelets--113, Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio--1.08, Monoclonal#1--1.8, INR----1.3.
Once again we are so thankful that the myeloma is staying contained and responding to the chemo. God is good.
We are also so thankful for the overwhelming love that is being shown to Tim and Barbie and their family through the social. They truly need the love and encouragement from people who care for them. We trust that very soon this last long, hard season will be over for them. We continue to pray that God will be their source of guidance and love and grace as they travel this very tough road as a family each and every day.
I had an awesome time at school this week celebrating the Easter story with our preschoolers. It was so special that they seemed to truly understand that Easter is more than chocolate bunnies. We have an amazing God who truly is alive, He didn't stay dead.. That is a huge truth to be able to grab hold of especially if you are 4 or 5 years old.
We are truly thankful to our Lord today as Bob has spent the day doing all the medical things that keep us keep on keeping on. At 7:00 am he was at Tom Baker receiving the aredia by intravenous. After lunch he was at the lab for the INR blood sample. Then back across the city to Tom Baker Cancer Centre to meet with Dr. Bahlis. Whooohooo no Dr. Bahlis--Bob met with the resident doctor---always a good sign.
All continues to be well for Bob. It was decided that the next PET scan will now be put back 4 months--good sign.
For those who get the numbers: HGB--146, Platelets--113, Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio--1.08, Monoclonal#1--1.8, INR----1.3.
Once again we are so thankful that the myeloma is staying contained and responding to the chemo. God is good.
We are also so thankful for the overwhelming love that is being shown to Tim and Barbie and their family through the social. They truly need the love and encouragement from people who care for them. We trust that very soon this last long, hard season will be over for them. We continue to pray that God will be their source of guidance and love and grace as they travel this very tough road as a family each and every day.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Contact
Yee Haw.......Dr. G. just contacted Bob at work and Bob's INR is back to normal......thankyou God. I guess that means that Bob can play contact sports again...........hmmmm, can't wait till he gets home. I am also thinking that it is now back to regular doses of cumadin (warfarin) only cumadin is the nice, doctorly way to say it!!!!!
This thought just past through my head ----why didn't the doc call me with the info??? I wonder if it is because I gave him Barbie's cell number rather than Bob's last week?????? Our daughter then tells Dr. G. "mom is loosing it" Sheesh both numbers are one after the other in the B section. I mean................really.
Everything is now set for Wed. and Bob's day at the Tom Baker Cancer Center.
This thought just past through my head ----why didn't the doc call me with the info??? I wonder if it is because I gave him Barbie's cell number rather than Bob's last week?????? Our daughter then tells Dr. G. "mom is loosing it" Sheesh both numbers are one after the other in the B section. I mean................really.
Everything is now set for Wed. and Bob's day at the Tom Baker Cancer Center.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Dr. G.
Dr. G., our family doctor, called this morning right at 8:00am. A real surprise having the doctor call--not one of the nurses or receptionists. I would like to think that I could claim that phone call as akin to a housecall from times gone by.
Bob had his INR blood test done yesterday. He had an appointment but still waited an hour and a half for his appointment to be honored. Never mind, won't go there again!!!! The INR level is 7.4. Dr. G. is concerned and asking what could have happened to cause this spike. Well,! a light bulb went on....click.......I bravely ventured-- well, when Bob had the flu, after a couple of days...gulp... he took Imodium----at my suggestion.....
Yes, Dr. G. responds that could do it!!!! "Until we get this stabilized, Bob really needs to have the INR test done each day." "I know that it is not easy, but it needs to be done!!!!" Dr. G. takes Bob's cell number and will speak with him directly. Soooooo Over the next couple of days Bob will be lining up at the lab between 6:30am and opening time at 7:00 am in order get one of those very low numbers in order to wait, not so long, for the blood test.
Bottom line-----All drugs have side effects, choose diarrhea over Imodium---at least for Bob.
We love our family doctor---Dr. G.--he is Barbie and Tim's family physician as well--and looks after all of us so well.
Thank you heavenly Father for Dr. G.
Bob had his INR blood test done yesterday. He had an appointment but still waited an hour and a half for his appointment to be honored. Never mind, won't go there again!!!! The INR level is 7.4. Dr. G. is concerned and asking what could have happened to cause this spike. Well,! a light bulb went on....click.......I bravely ventured-- well, when Bob had the flu, after a couple of days...gulp... he took Imodium----at my suggestion.....
Yes, Dr. G. responds that could do it!!!! "Until we get this stabilized, Bob really needs to have the INR test done each day." "I know that it is not easy, but it needs to be done!!!!" Dr. G. takes Bob's cell number and will speak with him directly. Soooooo Over the next couple of days Bob will be lining up at the lab between 6:30am and opening time at 7:00 am in order get one of those very low numbers in order to wait, not so long, for the blood test.
Bottom line-----All drugs have side effects, choose diarrhea over Imodium---at least for Bob.
We love our family doctor---Dr. G.--he is Barbie and Tim's family physician as well--and looks after all of us so well.
Thank you heavenly Father for Dr. G.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
PUNCHY
It is now Wed. again!!! Bob is still not feeling as well as he should. This flu has taken a lot out of him. We are on track again with all the lab appointments that will lead up to seeing the oncologist next Wed. Not sure why Bob only gets Wed. appointments. Does Dr. Bahlis only work one day a week---like a pastor.hmmmm.
Sorry Dr. Bahlis I realize how many cancer patients that are in the clinic each week. I know that you see lots of patients and thankfully are also so involved with myeloma research. Sorry to Brad as well, I know pastors put in lots of hours. I am just feeling a bit " punchy" today. The sun is suppose to come out today--perhaps that will help. It seems to have been dreary for a long time. Er.... maybe since I got sick almost two weeks ago now.
The INR results from the lab test yesterday was sent to our Dr. by the afternoon. Lab tests can make a person feel ...well, important when a doc is calling all the phone numbers available to find you. The INR test couldn't be read!!!! Bob's blood is supposedly so thin, it should be oozing through the pores. This has to be a mistake as he isn't even having nose bleeds. The doc faxed a prescription to the pharmacy for Vitamin K1 oral solution (phytonadione). However this pharmacy and no other pharmacy anywhere near here is able to fill this. The only pharmacy that did the "mixing" is somewhere over near the Chinook shopping centre. Soooo Dr. Bob stopped taking the warfarin and passed on the Vit. K. Now he is to have the INR test every day---easy for a doctor to say not so easy for a patient to accomplish. An appointment is needed for lab work unless you want to sit in the lab for a LARGE number of hours for an opening. My Bob is still working so this becomes more of a challenge as we have yet to see evening appointments, when you book. The earliest he could get an appointment is on Thurs at 2:40---booked yesterday. Can't make appointments for Sat and Sun so he will be at the clinic when it opens at 7:00am. Makes me a bit punchy!!! Makes me a nervous!!!
Bob is at work today so hopefully there won't be any contact sports or saw incidents!!!!!
Bob is looking a little frail so we are going to start working on that. Email me occasionally to make sure that we are walking and exercising. OK? Need some accountability help here.
The sun is out!!! Enough grousing and I will continue on with spring cleaning.
Sorry Dr. Bahlis I realize how many cancer patients that are in the clinic each week. I know that you see lots of patients and thankfully are also so involved with myeloma research. Sorry to Brad as well, I know pastors put in lots of hours. I am just feeling a bit " punchy" today. The sun is suppose to come out today--perhaps that will help. It seems to have been dreary for a long time. Er.... maybe since I got sick almost two weeks ago now.
The INR results from the lab test yesterday was sent to our Dr. by the afternoon. Lab tests can make a person feel ...well, important when a doc is calling all the phone numbers available to find you. The INR test couldn't be read!!!! Bob's blood is supposedly so thin, it should be oozing through the pores. This has to be a mistake as he isn't even having nose bleeds. The doc faxed a prescription to the pharmacy for Vitamin K1 oral solution (phytonadione). However this pharmacy and no other pharmacy anywhere near here is able to fill this. The only pharmacy that did the "mixing" is somewhere over near the Chinook shopping centre. Soooo Dr. Bob stopped taking the warfarin and passed on the Vit. K. Now he is to have the INR test every day---easy for a doctor to say not so easy for a patient to accomplish. An appointment is needed for lab work unless you want to sit in the lab for a LARGE number of hours for an opening. My Bob is still working so this becomes more of a challenge as we have yet to see evening appointments, when you book. The earliest he could get an appointment is on Thurs at 2:40---booked yesterday. Can't make appointments for Sat and Sun so he will be at the clinic when it opens at 7:00am. Makes me a bit punchy!!! Makes me a nervous!!!
Bob is at work today so hopefully there won't be any contact sports or saw incidents!!!!!
Bob is looking a little frail so we are going to start working on that. Email me occasionally to make sure that we are walking and exercising. OK? Need some accountability help here.
The sun is out!!! Enough grousing and I will continue on with spring cleaning.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Who Knows???
By this time today I was to be sitting on the deck of our friend"s house in the greater Vancouver area enjoying a cold refreshment and great conversation. Instead here we are at home watching the snow melt. The snow happened to fall this morning and we still do not have any sunshine. My feelings are mixed. Sadness that we had to cancel our long awaited trip to visit friends and family and then an excitement to understand why we couldn't go. This understanding may not come this side of heaven but it would be interesting to know why the Lord allowed the flu to fell Bob now. He could have had the flu a few days ago or even after we arrived in BC but yesterday? late in the afternoon? once I was prepared.. Since this isn't the first time we have had to cancel travel plans..........it is rather puzzling.
The flu will do a number on Bob simply because of the disruption to his body from chemo drugs not staying with him. The high blood sugar that comes with the Fri. drug could be tricky along with the flu. In the interest of Bob's health and emotional well being (like, the trots on a plane just can't happen). Plus the well being of the passengers on the plane me included could be in question!!!!-- ---cancelling seemed the most prudent. The car rental and drive across Vancouver wasn't going to be a fun adventure any longer. I get it all, but still......why?
I suppose I always ask why. Why do certain things happen, why a car accident, why a house fire, why cancer, why a war, why, why? We really do know why though,--- because we do not live in a perfect world. We live in a world full of people who break laws and put others at risk, a world full of chemicals and harmful substances that cause cancers, a world full of germs that cause the flu, a world full of mean people hungry for power and do not care who or how they hurt others. We live in a world of selfish people who put themselves first before the feelings or care of others --maybe even before their own families. We live in a fallen world.
That is all true but God is still God and I love Him. I know that He walks with me holding my hand through all of life's disappointments and joys as well. I trust God daily to have my best in His plan. He teaches me each day how to become more like His Son. Life's hard stuff does that, teaching me how to respond to God in both good and bad situations. So, I know who knows.
GOD KNOWS!!!! and I trust Him.
We must accept finite disappointment,but we must never lose infinite hope.
--Martin Luther King Jr.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Good Life
Here it is Saturday again!!! I know that Sat. comes around every week but it seems to be coming faster and faster. My mom always said time goes faster when you are older hmmmmm I wonder why?
Well this is the second weekend of the lower dose of Dex (the ugly steroid) for Bob. And it is looking gooood. Bob is still up most of Fri night----drives me crazy---but what can I say--I love being driven crazy. Bob is much calmer and happier and patient so it is all good so long as those ugly cancer cells are defeated.
The real truth came out when Bob said that the things at work didn't bother him so much any more--he could let it go and laugh again!!!! Now that is the truth in the pudding (not sure what that really means).
I got sick this week--with an intestinal bug. A real case of the ups and downs................Groooan. Bad enough that I had to miss a day of school--but I am sure that everyone at school was pleased to have me stay at home. Dr. Barbie thinks it was food poisoning. Not sure, but it could have been. Starting to feel much better and Bob is good so .....it is all good.
We continue to serve and obey our Heavenly Father and pray for His Hand of love and care on us. He is our Rock.
Well this is the second weekend of the lower dose of Dex (the ugly steroid) for Bob. And it is looking gooood. Bob is still up most of Fri night----drives me crazy---but what can I say--I love being driven crazy. Bob is much calmer and happier and patient so it is all good so long as those ugly cancer cells are defeated.
The real truth came out when Bob said that the things at work didn't bother him so much any more--he could let it go and laugh again!!!! Now that is the truth in the pudding (not sure what that really means).
I got sick this week--with an intestinal bug. A real case of the ups and downs................Groooan. Bad enough that I had to miss a day of school--but I am sure that everyone at school was pleased to have me stay at home. Dr. Barbie thinks it was food poisoning. Not sure, but it could have been. Starting to feel much better and Bob is good so .....it is all good.
We continue to serve and obey our Heavenly Father and pray for His Hand of love and care on us. He is our Rock.
I wait quietly before God,
for my victory comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will never be shaken.
Psalm 62;1,2
Monday, March 12, 2012
Whoa, slow down
This past weekend was the first one on the lower dose of the steroid. It seems to have been a good change. Sadly Bob didn't sleep much better but he was not nearly so agitated and the blood sugar high only lasted the one day---so only one day of injections. I do believe that made him very happy. Today will be the real judge--Not sure if Mondays have become a day of coming off the "high" but Bob hasn't felt good on Mondays. He is off to the estate for the day, and setting up what the rest of his week will look like. So far no appointments this week and we double checked!!!! How can anyone pace their time with no appointments to work around?????
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
EUREKA
Waiting, waiting, waiting is so hard. When I got home from school--still no Bob. Finally I decided to go online and low and behold an email from Bob at 2:00 saying the doc was 2 1/2 hours behind. That made the waiting easier.
Bob arrived very upbeat and happy so we took our coupon and celebrated with dinner at McDs. Classy or what!!!!
The scans show "complete metabolic response to chemotherapy. The bone lesions remain quiescent. There is no evidence of metabolically active disease at this rime." The time is March 7.
HGB---132, Monoclonal #1--1.9 Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio-----.95
We were thinking that maybe Bob could go off the drugs for a few weeks however the doc says no way---3 more months then another PET scan to check it all out.
Fortunately Dr. Bahlis is lowering the dexamethazone in half. From what we can tell that is the drug with the worse side effects that Bob has. Altho I am so thankful that even these side effects aren't as bad as they could have been. Some warriors who become irritable actually are violent--hitting and yelling--I thank the Lord that he has cared for Bob in a much more gentle way while on this chemo. Friday is the beginning of the new week of 3 weeks of chemo. Revlamid and the lower dose of dex. So onward ho, continuing this journey, however so thrilled that the drugs are doing their job.
We are so thrilled that God answers prayers. Thank you for yours.
Rejoice with us for this moment in time.
HGB---132, Monoclonal #1--1.9 Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio-----.95
We were thinking that maybe Bob could go off the drugs for a few weeks however the doc says no way---3 more months then another PET scan to check it all out.
Fortunately Dr. Bahlis is lowering the dexamethazone in half. From what we can tell that is the drug with the worse side effects that Bob has. Altho I am so thankful that even these side effects aren't as bad as they could have been. Some warriors who become irritable actually are violent--hitting and yelling--I thank the Lord that he has cared for Bob in a much more gentle way while on this chemo. Friday is the beginning of the new week of 3 weeks of chemo. Revlamid and the lower dose of dex. So onward ho, continuing this journey, however so thrilled that the drugs are doing their job.
We are so thrilled that God answers prayers. Thank you for yours.
Rejoice with us for this moment in time.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Prep
Well, this is the week of preparation---preparation for Bob's visit to the oncologist. Preparation to hear the news of what all these tests will mean. Will the myeloma in the lymph nodes have been blasted away? Will the cancer have traveled to different nodes? Will there be any new lesions in the bones? What will the hemoglobin numbers tell us, what about the protein that is followed? Will those numbers increase or hopefully decrease even more?
Throw in the fact that the machine that does the PET scan broke down. Now that scan will be done March 7 in the morning mere hours before Bob sees Dr. Bahlis. Will the doc get the results of this scan so he can see the whole picture or will we need to wait until another appt. hmmm, no, please Lord let us have the whole picture next week.
Therefore we wait, now that the tests are mostly completed. Preparing for how we will handle the different scenarios.
Bob is not feeling super well--drugs, dyes, uncertainty and just plain tired of our new normal.
Well, the week is almost over and beginning tomorrow is a week of being chemo free.
Prepare with us through prayer ---that we will be content in all circumstances.
Throw in the fact that the machine that does the PET scan broke down. Now that scan will be done March 7 in the morning mere hours before Bob sees Dr. Bahlis. Will the doc get the results of this scan so he can see the whole picture or will we need to wait until another appt. hmmm, no, please Lord let us have the whole picture next week.
Therefore we wait, now that the tests are mostly completed. Preparing for how we will handle the different scenarios.
Bob is not feeling super well--drugs, dyes, uncertainty and just plain tired of our new normal.
Well, the week is almost over and beginning tomorrow is a week of being chemo free.
Prepare with us through prayer ---that we will be content in all circumstances.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Flowing
Well, today we know for sure that there aren't any clots in Bob's system. Well, hopefully,.... for sure.
Some of the docs believed that the strokes he suffered--what? 2 plus years ago were from the drug that he is on for chemo--Revlimid. As the clots had only formed in the legs not the head--- in the research. The oncologist believes that the clot came from the damaged area of the heart from the heart attack Bob had. Anyhoooo Bob is on blood thinners and is tested bi-weekly and now that he is back on chemo --depending on the INR #--more often.
The nose bleeds that are happening these past few days show- at least to us-- that the blood is moving through the vessels lickity split with no clots to block the way. Yahooooo
A motto--quote from Linda Ryan. --- altho I am sure that we all have thought it.
My advice would be:
"Everything happens for a reason."
Sometimes you get to see the results of the challenges in your life and sometimes you get to practice strengthening your faith.
Some of the docs believed that the strokes he suffered--what? 2 plus years ago were from the drug that he is on for chemo--Revlimid. As the clots had only formed in the legs not the head--- in the research. The oncologist believes that the clot came from the damaged area of the heart from the heart attack Bob had. Anyhoooo Bob is on blood thinners and is tested bi-weekly and now that he is back on chemo --depending on the INR #--more often.
The nose bleeds that are happening these past few days show- at least to us-- that the blood is moving through the vessels lickity split with no clots to block the way. Yahooooo
A motto--quote from Linda Ryan. --- altho I am sure that we all have thought it.
My advice would be:
"Everything happens for a reason."
Sometimes you get to see the results of the challenges in your life and sometimes you get to practice strengthening your faith.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Emotions, Reality and Learning
Bob had 2 weeks off of the drugs and I didn't notice it that much until yesterday when he started the chemo again and now, I noticed. I took normalcy for granted and didn't notice well..........how common normalcy is until it isn't. I am thinking that in Bob's mind and body the initial start of each week of chemo must feel maniacal. The crash must send his mind and body into a real tail spin. We always hope that then, sweet sleep will come. My Bob, even then, tries to live a life that looks as normal as when not on drugs. He tries to live a life that is normal to me and our kids. I know that puts a tension in his mind and body. The "drug happening" is hard for me to describe and is probably inexplainable for Bob. I love Bob so much. These drugs that give him a longer life make me sad. It is a sadness for who we were together before cancer and an incredible thankfullness that I still have him.
My Bob was diagnosed with multiple myeloma almost 4 years ago. The initial words out of a doctor's mouth was that Bob had between 18 months and 3 years to live. A friend of ours, Greg R., was with us at that time. I remember that being spoken but don't remember much else. I was strong and determined we would get thru this. Bob thankfully doesn't recall any of this.
Little did we know the road that we have started down a road filled with bumps and pot holes. In spite of the jarring that is experienced on this trip we are so thankful for the health that Bob does have. Thankful that he is still able to work at a job that he is enjoying and that helps to keep his mind sharp. We are thankful that he can still do so much to help others and do things for our families.
Yet I deal with the start of each week, kinda lonely as he spins about doing a whole lot of different things--day and night: a glass project, computer stuff, reading on his Kobo, changing out a sink and doing plumbing, making a picture frame--actually 2, reading the paper when it comes in the very early hours.All this yesterday and until noon today. Yesterday he was also on the clock for work so he did a number of pick ups around the city and is constantly in communication with the people working on the estate. Saturday night the crash starts to come. Sunday is a recovery day but also a busy one too. Towards evening he is done. We have learned to take life much slower. There are times that I was beginning to resent this process that is repeated over and over plus adding in the labs and Dr. visits. Seems like a treadmill that is never going to change.
The epiphany is that it isn't going to change and that we still have each other, we can still laugh and enjoy all the things that life has in store for us. The epiphany is that my attitude and Bob's attitude had to change. Rather than waiting for "a change" of some kind --a cure-- we needed to embrace the life we have now as best we are able. This epiphany came about from a visit with a Manitoba friend passing through Calgary to B.C. He shared his loss of his wife and the time leading up to that loss.
I also bought the book Never Leave Your Wingman by Deana J Driver. It is Dionne and Graham Warner's story of hope. They miss the whole part of eternal hope, but still a very brave story of a woman who is and has battled seven kinds of cancer with her husband at her side. They embraced life in ways that seem unbelievable to me knowing how hard it is to deal with cancer and drugs. Yet it is also a challenge to embrace life and what the Lord has for us in a full on style.
God willing we plan to embrace the things we are presented with as much as money and energy allows and make some memories. Our amazing families love us and are the bright and shining star helping to guide us on this road all the while holding tight to the Hand of God our Father.
My Bob was diagnosed with multiple myeloma almost 4 years ago. The initial words out of a doctor's mouth was that Bob had between 18 months and 3 years to live. A friend of ours, Greg R., was with us at that time. I remember that being spoken but don't remember much else. I was strong and determined we would get thru this. Bob thankfully doesn't recall any of this.
Little did we know the road that we have started down a road filled with bumps and pot holes. In spite of the jarring that is experienced on this trip we are so thankful for the health that Bob does have. Thankful that he is still able to work at a job that he is enjoying and that helps to keep his mind sharp. We are thankful that he can still do so much to help others and do things for our families.
Yet I deal with the start of each week, kinda lonely as he spins about doing a whole lot of different things--day and night: a glass project, computer stuff, reading on his Kobo, changing out a sink and doing plumbing, making a picture frame--actually 2, reading the paper when it comes in the very early hours.All this yesterday and until noon today. Yesterday he was also on the clock for work so he did a number of pick ups around the city and is constantly in communication with the people working on the estate. Saturday night the crash starts to come. Sunday is a recovery day but also a busy one too. Towards evening he is done. We have learned to take life much slower. There are times that I was beginning to resent this process that is repeated over and over plus adding in the labs and Dr. visits. Seems like a treadmill that is never going to change.
The epiphany is that it isn't going to change and that we still have each other, we can still laugh and enjoy all the things that life has in store for us. The epiphany is that my attitude and Bob's attitude had to change. Rather than waiting for "a change" of some kind --a cure-- we needed to embrace the life we have now as best we are able. This epiphany came about from a visit with a Manitoba friend passing through Calgary to B.C. He shared his loss of his wife and the time leading up to that loss.
I also bought the book Never Leave Your Wingman by Deana J Driver. It is Dionne and Graham Warner's story of hope. They miss the whole part of eternal hope, but still a very brave story of a woman who is and has battled seven kinds of cancer with her husband at her side. They embraced life in ways that seem unbelievable to me knowing how hard it is to deal with cancer and drugs. Yet it is also a challenge to embrace life and what the Lord has for us in a full on style.
God willing we plan to embrace the things we are presented with as much as money and energy allows and make some memories. Our amazing families love us and are the bright and shining star helping to guide us on this road all the while holding tight to the Hand of God our Father.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Groundhog Day
February the first has sure come around in a hurry. I guess it is time for my Christmas dishes to be put away. I am still enjoying their cheerful look with every glass of water or cup of tea.
Groundhog day---it is interesting when we try and tell the preschool kids this folk tale. I am sure some of them think adults are strange!!!perhaps we are. However the kids also know that God is in charge of gophers and weather and us. How grateful we are that our Heavenly Father knows us and cares for us in all aspects of our lives.
Bob had an appointment with Dr. Bahlis yesterday at 5:30pm. We consider it bad news when he meets with Dr. Bahlis as we only see him when he finds "something". Bob usually sees a resident doctor. Therefore the initial reaction was UH OH good afternoon Dr. Bahlis. Then Bob thought oh!! no one else around hmmm everyone else has gone home. Dr. Bahlis didn't want to get to close to Bob---must have a fear of cold germs!!!! The numbers from lab results continue in the right direction-----down.
For my sister: Monoclonal #1---2.2 (always was low, even at the height of disease).
HGB---140
Creatine---78
Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio----.82
---------the numbers are low so we are so thankful that Bob was diagnosed when he was or Bob would still be taking Robaxacet.
Bob gets an extra week off of Chemo to try and clear up the cold, then back to the drug routine, plus Feb. 27--CT scan and Feb.28--PETscan.
These scans will tell if the cancer in the lymph nodes has disappeared. The scans will also tell whether there are any new lesions on any bones.
In spite of everything, we praise the Lord for the awesome care that Bob has and is receiving at the Tom Baker Cancer Center.
"We may be diagnosed with cancer, but we are NOT cancer. We can still love, laugh, give, forgive, and be grateful, have a sense of humor--in other words, live fully, even with physical limitations"......Cora Behrens
Groundhog day---it is interesting when we try and tell the preschool kids this folk tale. I am sure some of them think adults are strange!!!perhaps we are. However the kids also know that God is in charge of gophers and weather and us. How grateful we are that our Heavenly Father knows us and cares for us in all aspects of our lives.
Bob had an appointment with Dr. Bahlis yesterday at 5:30pm. We consider it bad news when he meets with Dr. Bahlis as we only see him when he finds "something". Bob usually sees a resident doctor. Therefore the initial reaction was UH OH good afternoon Dr. Bahlis. Then Bob thought oh!! no one else around hmmm everyone else has gone home. Dr. Bahlis didn't want to get to close to Bob---must have a fear of cold germs!!!! The numbers from lab results continue in the right direction-----down.
For my sister: Monoclonal #1---2.2 (always was low, even at the height of disease).
HGB---140
Creatine---78
Kappa/Lambda Free Ratio----.82
---------the numbers are low so we are so thankful that Bob was diagnosed when he was or Bob would still be taking Robaxacet.
Bob gets an extra week off of Chemo to try and clear up the cold, then back to the drug routine, plus Feb. 27--CT scan and Feb.28--PETscan.
These scans will tell if the cancer in the lymph nodes has disappeared. The scans will also tell whether there are any new lesions on any bones.
In spite of everything, we praise the Lord for the awesome care that Bob has and is receiving at the Tom Baker Cancer Center.
"We may be diagnosed with cancer, but we are NOT cancer. We can still love, laugh, give, forgive, and be grateful, have a sense of humor--in other words, live fully, even with physical limitations"......Cora Behrens
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
preamble Jan 31,2012
Wow, here I am finding my way---by myself--into the world of a blog. My hope is that this will actually be findable once I have finished this one. I have a hard time reading instructions---especially for computer stuff. As simple as a computer geek thinks it is to follow his instructions ---NOT--so I will be doing this by click and pray.
Not sure who is interested in following Bob's journey with multiple myeloma-----so rather than send out emails I will give you my blog address and should you want to check us out, feel free. The postings may be sporadic depending on what is going on. You know what? Maybe I will even post about more than just this cancer journey. Guess we will all have to wait and see. Wish I had all the emails from almost 3 years ago---didn't save them. Hoping that this electronic age will be Shirley friendly and I will find all my musings years down the road.
Bob is back on Chemo. He is on the 3weeks of chemo and 1 week off. Bob started chemo just before Christmas 2011. So far so good. He is on his week off right now but has a terrible cold and is feeling yukky. Bob has been able to continue working--same schedule--3 days at work place and 2 in the city. So grateful for his job and the people he works for and with. Last week Bob did all the lab work and has an appt tomorrow with the oncologist---hence my sharing or the beginning of sharing and the blog journey.
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