Phew, well.....I don't like this......
Haven't posted because I haven't really felt well enough. I'll give you a brief summary of the last few days.
Wednesday - greeted everyone with a very red face, neck and chest! I woke with a headache and very thirsty. My mouth felt "thick" but not sore. Felt off colour gradually throughout the day, bit dizzy with little appetite (that won't do me any harm!). Didn't do a lot, thank heavens for Mum.
Thursday - felt worse. Increased nausea, still very red (not hot though). Difficult to know what to eat without feeling sick. Tried to drink, but even that made me feel yuck. Even difficult to look at people and talk to them without feeling dizzy and sick. Managed a walk around the block with Mum though. Have been trying to eat little and often. One thing I have managed each evening is a small amount of dinner Mum has cooked for everyone and enjoyed it.
Friday - worse day so far. Felt very sick. Was easier to look straight ahead and concentrate at the wall than to look at everyone. Didn't speak much. Managed a congrats text to my friend H who had a baby girl in the morning (brilliant news)! Found it really difficult to drink, never mind eat. Mum had been to the Corsham bakery and bought plenty of goodies to tempt me, but just couldn't manage it (must've felt bad!!). Chris came home to pick up something he'd forgotten and I blubbed that I didn't think I could cope with this. Daft really, I haven't got much choice and this is just the beginning! Didn't get showered or dressed. Managed a bit of Mum's cottage pie in the evening. Felt ill after and went to bed early.
Saturday - an improvement. Nausea now coming in waves. Found eating helps the nausea, but the thought of eating makes me feel sick (work that one out!). Got showered and dressed which really knackered me out. Had a tiny piece of jam bap (could only face eating these when I was pregnant with Livi) and it went down well. Later on fancied nuts and Chris duly went out and bought some for me. Managed to nibble on these throughout the day. Something else I fancied trying was a quarter of a bap with cream cheese and tomato. Chris did his signature dish of salmon and prawn kebabs with couscous in the evening and I managed a small amount.
Sunday - best day so far. Best night's sleep since Monday. Still don't feel brilliant but the gaps between the nausea are increasing. After yesterday's success with jam baps and cream cheese and tomato, I had the same today - not full baps but quarters at a time. Had a small roast pork dinner in the evening and really enjoyed it, followed by a piece of apple and blueberry pie and ice cream. Today's the most I've eaten all week (should help my bowels!!). I feel like I'm coming out of a bit of a fog and I'm not quite sure where the last few days went. I'm not red any more and Mum thinks I look more like me.
Monday - thought I'd taken a backwards step. Didn't feel too bad when I woke up, but then felt nauseous and a little dizzy after breakfast (yes, jam bap again). Mouth is now sore and it hurts to brush my teeth. A few tears with Mum and I started to feel a bit better. That was until my tummy started gurgling and I spent the afternoon on and off the loo! Chris went out and bought some Imodium (funny in our family - long story, but Mum and the Auntie Ritas will know what I mean!). Feel drained today. Mum went back home tonight and I'll miss her :-( So will Chris. Having her here has meant he can go off and potter to his heart's content in his own little world. She's taken care of everything and everybody.
Chris is back at work tomorrow, so it's just me and the kids - that'll be interesting. Think my time being waited on hand and foot is over!!
Will try and keep you posted with any changes. Thanks for all the messages of encouragement. Apologies if I don't reply but I really appreciate them all.
Monday, 30 August 2010
Tuesday, 24 August 2010
C-Day #1
Didn't get much sleep last night. Some would say understandably, but I would say, Chris (mixture of both, I suspect). We had the blinds open and I had a fabulous view of the brightest star in the sky. I like to think it was my Granny telling me all will be ok, but I'm told it's probably the planet Venus (think I'll stick to my Granny theory).
Chris woke me up too soon! The idea was to have a light breakfast, so I didn't go into Chemo with a full stomach or an empty one. Kept thinking that the last time I was nauseous (morning sickness), I went off coffee, so I savoured my pot this morning - just in case!
We waited in the main area, before being called into the Chemo Suite. Chris did his usual wig spotting routine, letting me know what he thought!
Nurses in the suite were lovely, but only 2 of them - with leave and sickness to contend with, they were running round. Although they weren't full, it was busy enough.
Once the cannula had been inserted (back of the wrist), it was all systems go. First to go in was the saline drip. This was followed by 4 syringes of the Epirubicin. This is coloured red (when it goes in and when it comes out!). They found that this can make your mouth sore, so when they're inserting this, I am given ice lollies to suck on. I had 2 strawberry flavoured ones! May choose lemon or orange next time - wayhay! Next came the fluorouracil in an even larger syringe! Finally the cyclophosphamide which was given in a drip, through a pump. Then finally, finally, a flush through with more saline. Cannula removed, sit there for 30 seconds with my finger on the dressing and then off home.
Didn't know what to expect really. I think I thought the nausea and the metallic taste would be pretty instant. I have to say I didn't experience anything and left the department feeling the same as when I'd come in. Well, apart from less apprehensive and amazed at how well it went.
Not having much sleep last night, Mum took the kids to Subway for lunch and Chris and I chilled. I went for a lie down and a half hour kip and Chris did what he does and buried himself in the computer.
Later on in the afternoon, I didn't feel quite so good. Nothing really bad, but just out of sorts, so I spent the afternoon doing not a lot.
Everyone had fish and chips for tea, so I had fish and a few chips, which I really enjoyed, but we'll see later if my digestive system agrees!
All in all, not a bad day for my first chemo experience. I'm convinced it was my Granny looking down on me last night.........
Chris woke me up too soon! The idea was to have a light breakfast, so I didn't go into Chemo with a full stomach or an empty one. Kept thinking that the last time I was nauseous (morning sickness), I went off coffee, so I savoured my pot this morning - just in case!
We waited in the main area, before being called into the Chemo Suite. Chris did his usual wig spotting routine, letting me know what he thought!
Nurses in the suite were lovely, but only 2 of them - with leave and sickness to contend with, they were running round. Although they weren't full, it was busy enough.
Once the cannula had been inserted (back of the wrist), it was all systems go. First to go in was the saline drip. This was followed by 4 syringes of the Epirubicin. This is coloured red (when it goes in and when it comes out!). They found that this can make your mouth sore, so when they're inserting this, I am given ice lollies to suck on. I had 2 strawberry flavoured ones! May choose lemon or orange next time - wayhay! Next came the fluorouracil in an even larger syringe! Finally the cyclophosphamide which was given in a drip, through a pump. Then finally, finally, a flush through with more saline. Cannula removed, sit there for 30 seconds with my finger on the dressing and then off home.
Didn't know what to expect really. I think I thought the nausea and the metallic taste would be pretty instant. I have to say I didn't experience anything and left the department feeling the same as when I'd come in. Well, apart from less apprehensive and amazed at how well it went.
Not having much sleep last night, Mum took the kids to Subway for lunch and Chris and I chilled. I went for a lie down and a half hour kip and Chris did what he does and buried himself in the computer.
Later on in the afternoon, I didn't feel quite so good. Nothing really bad, but just out of sorts, so I spent the afternoon doing not a lot.
Everyone had fish and chips for tea, so I had fish and a few chips, which I really enjoyed, but we'll see later if my digestive system agrees!
All in all, not a bad day for my first chemo experience. I'm convinced it was my Granny looking down on me last night.........
Monday, 23 August 2010
Well, the last few days have been very quiet. We haven't gone anywhere exciting, just mooched about and chilled at home.
All leading up to tomorrow's chemo. Today, I took my first lot of tablets to help stop me being sick and to boost my immune system. Now, as my family will tell you, I'm not good at remembering to take tablets, so I've had to write down what to take and when I have to take it and put reminders on my phone (how pathetic is that?). Only thing I didn't do, was to look at the instructions to find out what to take with food and what to take on an empty stomach. So, I ended up taking them all at the same time, ah well, I'm ok - no serious side effects so far. Saving those for the chemo!!!
Livi did brilliantly with her fundraising. She raised over £600!!! Everybody was pleased with the prizes (or at least that they'd won something!). There are donations still trickling in, so she won't hand the cheque in quite yet.
There was also an article in the local paper http://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/news/8344306.Melksham_teen_in_the_pink_after_fundraiser/
(that's my baby girl, that is!!) - smashing!
Oh and she's going back out with the boyfriend - mmmmm..........
Mum came up this evening (was that record time? "No I was just keeping up with the traffic!"), so we'll be well looked after.
How do I feel about tomorrow? Apprehensive, not looking forward to it, but accepting of it (at least I don't have to worry about what to take and when to take it with the chemo!!). Chris is coming with me and we're taking books. I didn't think it was a good idea to take the Serial Killer book with me (!), so I finished that off and started another - The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. It's the first of a trilogy (The Millenium Trilogy) that were written by a Swedish journalist who also exposed Swedish extreme right and racist organizations, so I'm looking forward to a good read.
I'll let you know how I get on (with the chemo, not the book, although....).
It's time to bomb the POOOH - bring it on!
All leading up to tomorrow's chemo. Today, I took my first lot of tablets to help stop me being sick and to boost my immune system. Now, as my family will tell you, I'm not good at remembering to take tablets, so I've had to write down what to take and when I have to take it and put reminders on my phone (how pathetic is that?). Only thing I didn't do, was to look at the instructions to find out what to take with food and what to take on an empty stomach. So, I ended up taking them all at the same time, ah well, I'm ok - no serious side effects so far. Saving those for the chemo!!!
Livi did brilliantly with her fundraising. She raised over £600!!! Everybody was pleased with the prizes (or at least that they'd won something!). There are donations still trickling in, so she won't hand the cheque in quite yet.
There was also an article in the local paper http://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/news/8344306.Melksham_teen_in_the_pink_after_fundraiser/
(that's my baby girl, that is!!) - smashing!
Oh and she's going back out with the boyfriend - mmmmm..........
Mum came up this evening (was that record time? "No I was just keeping up with the traffic!"), so we'll be well looked after.
How do I feel about tomorrow? Apprehensive, not looking forward to it, but accepting of it (at least I don't have to worry about what to take and when to take it with the chemo!!). Chris is coming with me and we're taking books. I didn't think it was a good idea to take the Serial Killer book with me (!), so I finished that off and started another - The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. It's the first of a trilogy (The Millenium Trilogy) that were written by a Swedish journalist who also exposed Swedish extreme right and racist organizations, so I'm looking forward to a good read.
I'll let you know how I get on (with the chemo, not the book, although....).
It's time to bomb the POOOH - bring it on!
Thursday, 19 August 2010
First visit to Chemo Suite
We had the pleasure of Livi's company yesterday for our trip out. Of course, we had to wait until she finished work experience, oh and she didn't want to walk too far (her feet hurt), oh and she didn't want to visit boring houses/castles, oh and it was going to pour down in the afternoon. Well, that left us with plenty of options....not!
We eventually conceded to going to Farmer Giles farmstead (how old are they??!!). Actually it turned out alright. Yes, they were the oldest kids there and yes, it did rain, but we managed to dodge that for most of our time there. All the animals were friendly and the kids and Chris enjoyed feeding and petting them (just goes to show, they never grow up). There were lots of tractors for Chris to take photos of and I got to see a jet and an Apache helicopter flying overhead! Satnav took us through some lovely villages on the way back, so not a bad afternoon in all.
Today involved visiting the Chemo Suite for the first time. Had bloods taken before going for a chat with the chemo nurse. This happened in the same place as the treatments and took around an hour. Not a big room and not an awful lot of space between patients. Most of the bays were occupied and it was quiet, except for us talking and nurses busying themselves with various tasks. Jo, the nurse went through my regime and told me about all the delightful things that may happen to me, such as the nausea, tiredness, hair loss, sore mouth, taste changes, allergic reactions, joint pain, fluid retention, diarrhoea (but hopefully the constipation should counteract that!), to name but a few. The biggest thing I have to watch out for, though, is infection. Jo told me that if my temperature goes over 38C or I suddenly feel unwell, I have to contact either them or the GP for blood tests and antibiotics. It makes you feel like you want to hide away for the duration, but of course, you can't, you just have to be sensible - not go shopping at peak times etc. Chris mentioned Liv working with animals (something we hadn't really thought about) and Jo recommended that she shower if possible or at least wash thoroughly and change her clothes before coming home (that'll be a culture shock for her!).
I also got my next couple of appointments. I have to see the oncologist a couple of days before each treatment, to see what reactions I've had and if they need to adjust the dose. They'll also take bloods at the same time. If they're not quite right I'll go in a couple of hours earlier on treatment day and they'll take it again. If it's still not right I'll have to wait a week before having my next treatment. So my next dates are 15th Sept to see the oncologist and the 17th (Vaughan's birthday) for treatment. Hacked off that it's Vaughan's 16th birthday but we'll have to celebrate that another day.
Suddenly chemo's thundering ahead like a steam train...........
We eventually conceded to going to Farmer Giles farmstead (how old are they??!!). Actually it turned out alright. Yes, they were the oldest kids there and yes, it did rain, but we managed to dodge that for most of our time there. All the animals were friendly and the kids and Chris enjoyed feeding and petting them (just goes to show, they never grow up). There were lots of tractors for Chris to take photos of and I got to see a jet and an Apache helicopter flying overhead! Satnav took us through some lovely villages on the way back, so not a bad afternoon in all.
Today involved visiting the Chemo Suite for the first time. Had bloods taken before going for a chat with the chemo nurse. This happened in the same place as the treatments and took around an hour. Not a big room and not an awful lot of space between patients. Most of the bays were occupied and it was quiet, except for us talking and nurses busying themselves with various tasks. Jo, the nurse went through my regime and told me about all the delightful things that may happen to me, such as the nausea, tiredness, hair loss, sore mouth, taste changes, allergic reactions, joint pain, fluid retention, diarrhoea (but hopefully the constipation should counteract that!), to name but a few. The biggest thing I have to watch out for, though, is infection. Jo told me that if my temperature goes over 38C or I suddenly feel unwell, I have to contact either them or the GP for blood tests and antibiotics. It makes you feel like you want to hide away for the duration, but of course, you can't, you just have to be sensible - not go shopping at peak times etc. Chris mentioned Liv working with animals (something we hadn't really thought about) and Jo recommended that she shower if possible or at least wash thoroughly and change her clothes before coming home (that'll be a culture shock for her!).
I also got my next couple of appointments. I have to see the oncologist a couple of days before each treatment, to see what reactions I've had and if they need to adjust the dose. They'll also take bloods at the same time. If they're not quite right I'll go in a couple of hours earlier on treatment day and they'll take it again. If it's still not right I'll have to wait a week before having my next treatment. So my next dates are 15th Sept to see the oncologist and the 17th (Vaughan's birthday) for treatment. Hacked off that it's Vaughan's 16th birthday but we'll have to celebrate that another day.
Suddenly chemo's thundering ahead like a steam train...........
Tuesday, 17 August 2010
Well, Livi survived the weekend but was tired come Sunday night. She did really well. With friends and colleagues at McDonalds, they had raised over £400 pounds, with more to come over the coming week. The local paper took a photo and rang for her story. Hoping to see that on Friday (even I spoke to the reporter!). She's talking about a sky dive next (OH. MY. GOD!!).
Yesterday we decided to wait until Liv had finished her work experience before going out (well, she'd had a busy time and her feet hurt!). This however meant that we didn't get to Blenheim Palace until mid-afternoon and it's the sort of place that needs a full day (or more) to appreciate all it has to offer. We started off by going round the house (oops, sorry, palace!) and managed to tag onto the end of a tour. The look on the boys faces was priceless (not their idea of fun!). The tour guide had a story about every painting, photo, tapestry, piece of furniture........so in the end, Vaughan drew the short straw (again) and Chris and Adam charged on to explore the lake. My bag was heavy as it had the camera and satnav in it, so Vaughan was volunteered to carry it! Bless him, he takes it all with such good grace, only his face betrays how he really feels! Once we'd done the downstairs, there was another exhibition upstairs before we finally met up with Chris and Adam. A quick drink and a cake and it was time to go as they were closing. We sat on a bench drinking in the splendour of the palace (well I was, the boys were messing around and Chris was taking photos!) before going back to the car (via the loos of course!).
We did see the 11th Duke of Marlborough drive off in his '10 plate Range Rover, though! Probably nipping down to the corner shop to get a pint of milk, don't you think??!!
Today was a hospital day - Chris' actually (there that fooled you!). He's been suffering from a cough for a long time and was referred there by his GP. He had lung function tests (which were fine) and then saw a registrar. After lots of questions, it was decided that it may be related to acid reflux. So, he's been given medication to try for 3 months to see if it eases the symptoms. He's also been given a peak flow meter to rule out asthma.
On the bra front, by the way, we have a new addition to the family. Her name is Nora (I kid you not, they're really called these names!) - a new companion for Frances. I wore it first on Wednesday. I didn't realise until bedtime that I had tightened it too much. It had been rubbing on part of the scar under my arm which left it swollen and red (I don't have much sensation there, so didn't feel it). So yesterday, it was back to Frances and sod the lop-sidedness! I can't be faffed with it any more - I may even go bra-less one day and just watch the look on peoples faces! On a positive note though, I persevered with Nora today and it's not felt too bad (mind you, it didn't feel bad the other day!) - I don't think it's rubbed, after some minor adjustments were made!
Not sure where we're going tomorrow, Liv may come with us after her work experience. Think the weather's supposed to be changeable, but we'll see......
By the way, I've been playing around with the scarves I got from Sue S! Well..... it's a bit difficult as I can't bend my elbow to tie them at the back, so it could be an interesting look when I start wearing them! I have a beautiful pair of dangley earrings to wear with it though (thank you Susie B!!!), so that'll take the attention away from the scarf.......hopefully!
Yesterday we decided to wait until Liv had finished her work experience before going out (well, she'd had a busy time and her feet hurt!). This however meant that we didn't get to Blenheim Palace until mid-afternoon and it's the sort of place that needs a full day (or more) to appreciate all it has to offer. We started off by going round the house (oops, sorry, palace!) and managed to tag onto the end of a tour. The look on the boys faces was priceless (not their idea of fun!). The tour guide had a story about every painting, photo, tapestry, piece of furniture........so in the end, Vaughan drew the short straw (again) and Chris and Adam charged on to explore the lake. My bag was heavy as it had the camera and satnav in it, so Vaughan was volunteered to carry it! Bless him, he takes it all with such good grace, only his face betrays how he really feels! Once we'd done the downstairs, there was another exhibition upstairs before we finally met up with Chris and Adam. A quick drink and a cake and it was time to go as they were closing. We sat on a bench drinking in the splendour of the palace (well I was, the boys were messing around and Chris was taking photos!) before going back to the car (via the loos of course!).
We did see the 11th Duke of Marlborough drive off in his '10 plate Range Rover, though! Probably nipping down to the corner shop to get a pint of milk, don't you think??!!
Today was a hospital day - Chris' actually (there that fooled you!). He's been suffering from a cough for a long time and was referred there by his GP. He had lung function tests (which were fine) and then saw a registrar. After lots of questions, it was decided that it may be related to acid reflux. So, he's been given medication to try for 3 months to see if it eases the symptoms. He's also been given a peak flow meter to rule out asthma.
On the bra front, by the way, we have a new addition to the family. Her name is Nora (I kid you not, they're really called these names!) - a new companion for Frances. I wore it first on Wednesday. I didn't realise until bedtime that I had tightened it too much. It had been rubbing on part of the scar under my arm which left it swollen and red (I don't have much sensation there, so didn't feel it). So yesterday, it was back to Frances and sod the lop-sidedness! I can't be faffed with it any more - I may even go bra-less one day and just watch the look on peoples faces! On a positive note though, I persevered with Nora today and it's not felt too bad (mind you, it didn't feel bad the other day!) - I don't think it's rubbed, after some minor adjustments were made!
Not sure where we're going tomorrow, Liv may come with us after her work experience. Think the weather's supposed to be changeable, but we'll see......
By the way, I've been playing around with the scarves I got from Sue S! Well..... it's a bit difficult as I can't bend my elbow to tie them at the back, so it could be an interesting look when I start wearing them! I have a beautiful pair of dangley earrings to wear with it though (thank you Susie B!!!), so that'll take the attention away from the scarf.......hopefully!
Sunday, 15 August 2010
seaside and airplanes
We've decided to eek out our holiday at home by going somewhere every other day. This means we can continue it into next week, in between the hospital visits!
As Chris and Adam wanted to go fishing, we decided to go to West Bay in Dorset on Wednesday. As per usual, we got off to a very slow start and didn't leave until lunchtime. Weather was a bit mixed but it stayed dry. We went for a walk around the harbour when we arrived to see if anything had changed since our last visit - it hadn't. Chris was desperate to go up river in a row boat. I didn't want to look a spectacle, with one boob down by my waist and the other up by my ear, a dodgy right arm and the prospect of falling in (I've never had good balance!), so I decided to let them get on with it. I sat and read the paper, whilst the boys frightened the living daylights out of their father (one rowing and the other steering).
We had another walk when they returned and then moved to the other side of the harbour so they could fish. Of course, by this time we were getting hungry and there's no shortage of fish and chip huts, soooooo.........well, we couldn't go to the seaside and not have fish and chips!
The boys pootled off to fish (3 crabs and no fish!) and I sat in the car overlooking the harbour, people watching. Made a couple of calls - Susie's dad had just had a pacemaker fitted and I wanted to find out how he was getting on and naturally, I had to tell Ma and Pa where we were, seagulls screeching in the background (Mum hates them!). Finally got home around 22:00, with me driving most of the way (first time I've driven such a long distance) as Chris was tired.
Had a lazy day on Friday and I mean lazy (for lazy, read boring), we didn't do anything. The weather wasn't brilliant anyway, so it didn't really matter. Just as well as we ended up having a rather late night. Liv had been out with her boyfriend and was gearing up to a busy weekend fundraising for the RUH Breast Unit (something that she's put a lot of effort and thought into). Not long after she came home, she came into the living room sobbing her heart out - her boyfriend had decided to choose that moment to finish with her, via his Facebook status. Obviously there's a bit more to it than that, but I thought his timing was impeccable. Liv was on the ceiling so called on a friend for a shoulder and went out with her for a drive. We didn't want to go to bed until she got home (concerned parents), so stayed up 'til she arrived home at 01:00!
Chris was taking her to work for 06:30 the next morning - god knows how much sleep she had!
On Saturday (after further sleep for Chris), we decided to go The Fleet Air Arm Museum at RNAS Yeovilton. As those of you who know me, I can NEVER tire of seeing planes and learning of the stories that follow them. We spent a good 3 hours there, whilst it chucked it down outside.
Meanwhile in McDonalds, Liv's pink day was getting off to a brilliant start. She'd sold over 100 raffle tickets, supplementing this with donations from staff and customers. PLENTY OF RAFFLE TICKETS STILL TO BE SOLD!!!!!
Today is her car wash day. She's started at 11:00 and is carrying on 'til 17:00, when she will start her shift, finishing at 22:00.
Chris has taken Adam to a Futsal tournament in Bristol and I've just heard they won!!!!! Vaughan and I did some shopping and are just about to take the big car down for a wash - think I'd better pay more than the £3 charge for that one!
As Chris and Adam wanted to go fishing, we decided to go to West Bay in Dorset on Wednesday. As per usual, we got off to a very slow start and didn't leave until lunchtime. Weather was a bit mixed but it stayed dry. We went for a walk around the harbour when we arrived to see if anything had changed since our last visit - it hadn't. Chris was desperate to go up river in a row boat. I didn't want to look a spectacle, with one boob down by my waist and the other up by my ear, a dodgy right arm and the prospect of falling in (I've never had good balance!), so I decided to let them get on with it. I sat and read the paper, whilst the boys frightened the living daylights out of their father (one rowing and the other steering).
We had another walk when they returned and then moved to the other side of the harbour so they could fish. Of course, by this time we were getting hungry and there's no shortage of fish and chip huts, soooooo.........well, we couldn't go to the seaside and not have fish and chips!
The boys pootled off to fish (3 crabs and no fish!) and I sat in the car overlooking the harbour, people watching. Made a couple of calls - Susie's dad had just had a pacemaker fitted and I wanted to find out how he was getting on and naturally, I had to tell Ma and Pa where we were, seagulls screeching in the background (Mum hates them!). Finally got home around 22:00, with me driving most of the way (first time I've driven such a long distance) as Chris was tired.
Had a lazy day on Friday and I mean lazy (for lazy, read boring), we didn't do anything. The weather wasn't brilliant anyway, so it didn't really matter. Just as well as we ended up having a rather late night. Liv had been out with her boyfriend and was gearing up to a busy weekend fundraising for the RUH Breast Unit (something that she's put a lot of effort and thought into). Not long after she came home, she came into the living room sobbing her heart out - her boyfriend had decided to choose that moment to finish with her, via his Facebook status. Obviously there's a bit more to it than that, but I thought his timing was impeccable. Liv was on the ceiling so called on a friend for a shoulder and went out with her for a drive. We didn't want to go to bed until she got home (concerned parents), so stayed up 'til she arrived home at 01:00!
Chris was taking her to work for 06:30 the next morning - god knows how much sleep she had!
On Saturday (after further sleep for Chris), we decided to go The Fleet Air Arm Museum at RNAS Yeovilton. As those of you who know me, I can NEVER tire of seeing planes and learning of the stories that follow them. We spent a good 3 hours there, whilst it chucked it down outside.
Meanwhile in McDonalds, Liv's pink day was getting off to a brilliant start. She'd sold over 100 raffle tickets, supplementing this with donations from staff and customers. PLENTY OF RAFFLE TICKETS STILL TO BE SOLD!!!!!
Today is her car wash day. She's started at 11:00 and is carrying on 'til 17:00, when she will start her shift, finishing at 22:00.
Chris has taken Adam to a Futsal tournament in Bristol and I've just heard they won!!!!! Vaughan and I did some shopping and are just about to take the big car down for a wash - think I'd better pay more than the £3 charge for that one!
Wednesday, 11 August 2010
Today was a quiet day. We thought we'd chill today. Neither Chris nor I felt like doing much, so we didn't!
Yesterday we went to Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire. We were going to pootle off to Blenheim Palace, but the weather was foul, so we had a lazy morning in the hope that it would improve. It didn't, but we wanted to get out. After numerous suggestions (not much enthusiasm from some quarters!), I managed to persuade Adam that we could visit another castle. Compromise really, as Berkeley Castle is still lived in, so I knew I'd probably enjoy it.
It was still raining as we arrived, so it was a good time to look around the interior. We managed to tag onto the end of a tour and wandered round with them. I was completely fascinated, loved it, but Adam and Chris would've liked to explore the battlements (which weren't open to visitors). Fantastic history and a beautiful castle. There were no formal gardens and, as it was wet, we didn't explore the parkland. We did wander through the butterfly farm though (I'm sure there'll be pics on Chris' blog!).
Then it was home for an hour before Chris took Adam to Futsal and I had the pleasure of a visit from Gaynor! Enjoyed our time together, talking about anything and everything! She's right though, we need a bottle next time instead of tea!
Today's lazy day saw me challenging Chris to a left handed darts match! I can't play right handed anymore, since I broke my elbow, so it's only fair that he did too (play left handed that is, not break his elbow!). We decided on 301 (thought that 501 would mean playing 'til midnight!) , nearest the bull to start, double to finish. Ha ha, I started! He started off very well, but I soon pulled up. Neither of us got higher than 60 though! I was down to a double before he even got the chance to finish, but I just couldn't get it! Did eventually and finished on double 1! I proudly proclaimed myself the undisputed household champion - until early evening when Adam challenged me! Then guess what...........??? I lost my title! The young upstart finished on a double 2, while I was still struggling with double 5!
Mmmmm......game on!
Yesterday we went to Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire. We were going to pootle off to Blenheim Palace, but the weather was foul, so we had a lazy morning in the hope that it would improve. It didn't, but we wanted to get out. After numerous suggestions (not much enthusiasm from some quarters!), I managed to persuade Adam that we could visit another castle. Compromise really, as Berkeley Castle is still lived in, so I knew I'd probably enjoy it.
It was still raining as we arrived, so it was a good time to look around the interior. We managed to tag onto the end of a tour and wandered round with them. I was completely fascinated, loved it, but Adam and Chris would've liked to explore the battlements (which weren't open to visitors). Fantastic history and a beautiful castle. There were no formal gardens and, as it was wet, we didn't explore the parkland. We did wander through the butterfly farm though (I'm sure there'll be pics on Chris' blog!).
Then it was home for an hour before Chris took Adam to Futsal and I had the pleasure of a visit from Gaynor! Enjoyed our time together, talking about anything and everything! She's right though, we need a bottle next time instead of tea!
Today's lazy day saw me challenging Chris to a left handed darts match! I can't play right handed anymore, since I broke my elbow, so it's only fair that he did too (play left handed that is, not break his elbow!). We decided on 301 (thought that 501 would mean playing 'til midnight!) , nearest the bull to start, double to finish. Ha ha, I started! He started off very well, but I soon pulled up. Neither of us got higher than 60 though! I was down to a double before he even got the chance to finish, but I just couldn't get it! Did eventually and finished on double 1! I proudly proclaimed myself the undisputed household champion - until early evening when Adam challenged me! Then guess what...........??? I lost my title! The young upstart finished on a double 2, while I was still struggling with double 5!
Mmmmm......game on!
Monday, 9 August 2010
Saturday was a pretty quiet day, but Sunday.......? Sunday we went out!
We decided to go to Chepstow Castle - over the bridge into Wales. It was the old Severn Bridge and the views were fantastic. I love the bridges (must walk over one day).
The castle was brilliant. Castles aren't really my thing, especially when they're just a pile of old stones, but this was really quite well preserved. Chris'll probably tell the story in pictures, so I won't go into too much detail. Built on a cliff with the river Wye on the east side, the views are spectacular.
You can see the town bridge from the castle, which prompted many jokes (guess who??) about how amazing it was that the bridge survived being blown up in the war (a reference to the film Bridge on the River Kwai - geddit??!!!). Well anyway, there were plenty of information plaques to tell you what was what and in what century. I really enjoyed it!
We took a drive through the Wye valley (one of Chris' magical mystery tours, but beautiful) before coming back home.
The frustrating thing for me yesterday, was my arm. I found that after walking round the castle my cords had hardened and it was painful to lift and straighten my arm. Some may say "why don't you raise it whilst your walking?" (eh DadD??). This sounds simple enough, but then it involves tugging Frances down and straightening the comfy! The family are used to it but not quite sure what other people would make of me grappling with my right boob! Chris did actually take a photo of me and Vaughan walking through an archway and I must have just adjusted myself (!), because he's caught it on camera (NO - it won't be going on his blog!). Must get a decent bra and a permanent prosthesis!
Today was a slow start. The boys didn't surface until nearly lunchtime. Vaughan was due at a friends at 14:00, so once Adam had gone out and we'd dropped Vaughan off, Chris and I went to a pub for lunch. We had a fantastic steak. Will definitely have to go there again! We're always thinking too much about the kids to get time on our own, so this was perfect.
Another of Chris' magical mystery tours and we ended up looking at an aircraft graveyard (Kemble) - mainly commercial 737s - and watching a light aircraft land and take off. Finally home. Wonder what tomorrow will bring..........?
We decided to go to Chepstow Castle - over the bridge into Wales. It was the old Severn Bridge and the views were fantastic. I love the bridges (must walk over one day).
The castle was brilliant. Castles aren't really my thing, especially when they're just a pile of old stones, but this was really quite well preserved. Chris'll probably tell the story in pictures, so I won't go into too much detail. Built on a cliff with the river Wye on the east side, the views are spectacular.
You can see the town bridge from the castle, which prompted many jokes (guess who??) about how amazing it was that the bridge survived being blown up in the war (a reference to the film Bridge on the River Kwai - geddit??!!!). Well anyway, there were plenty of information plaques to tell you what was what and in what century. I really enjoyed it!
We took a drive through the Wye valley (one of Chris' magical mystery tours, but beautiful) before coming back home.
The frustrating thing for me yesterday, was my arm. I found that after walking round the castle my cords had hardened and it was painful to lift and straighten my arm. Some may say "why don't you raise it whilst your walking?" (eh DadD??). This sounds simple enough, but then it involves tugging Frances down and straightening the comfy! The family are used to it but not quite sure what other people would make of me grappling with my right boob! Chris did actually take a photo of me and Vaughan walking through an archway and I must have just adjusted myself (!), because he's caught it on camera (NO - it won't be going on his blog!). Must get a decent bra and a permanent prosthesis!
Today was a slow start. The boys didn't surface until nearly lunchtime. Vaughan was due at a friends at 14:00, so once Adam had gone out and we'd dropped Vaughan off, Chris and I went to a pub for lunch. We had a fantastic steak. Will definitely have to go there again! We're always thinking too much about the kids to get time on our own, so this was perfect.
Another of Chris' magical mystery tours and we ended up looking at an aircraft graveyard (Kemble) - mainly commercial 737s - and watching a light aircraft land and take off. Finally home. Wonder what tomorrow will bring..........?
Saturday, 7 August 2010
I'm back!
Sorry I haven't posted for a while. It's a bit embarrassing when there's nothing really to report. One day melts into the next and then suddenly it's the weekend again. I've been told by a few people, though, that I need to let everyone know what's going on even if it's only a few lines. So....point taken, I will try harder!
Chris has already blogged about last weekend - well, Saturday at least. I won't bore you with the same tale, other than to say, I'm not always that critical of him (not in my mind anyway and if he did things right in the first place, I wouldn't have to be!).
The walk is one of my favourites in Wiltshire. The route we take isn't long (a couple of miles, but you can go much further) - the views from the top of the hill are fantastic. At the top I fantasise about being it my garden, sitting with a large glass of red, looking out at the rolling hills and flat plains below. Then I remember the nearby golf course and realise that there'd be people walking past and hitting balls into my garden.....maybe not the ideal place after all!
Sunday and the rest of the week were punctuated with us trying to find somewhere to go for a last minute break before chemo starts. Needless to say we couldn't find anything, otherwise we'd be on our way today and the blog would've had to wait even longer to be updated!
Everyone was eager that we get away (friends, parents, husband), but it seemed daft to me to go just anywhere that was available. It's not my idea of a break to be in the middle of a holiday camp surrounded by 2000 caravans and no view to compensate. Anyway, the idea now is to go for days out. I did suggest that Chris take the boys camping for a few days, but none of them are eager to go anywhere without me. They're already getting invitations from friends which is annoying Chris as he wants us to do things together. Liv has work and work experience so, unfortunately, she's out of the equation really. I feel terribly guilty. It's down to me that we're not going away, Chris is desperate to have a proper break after everything that's gone on and is to come. If I was more flexible with accommodation etc...............am I being too selfish???? Anyway, the decision's made now - I'm sure we'll sort things out.
Wednesday, I went for lunch with my brother Chris. He came over and picked me up around 11:45 and we went to Allington Farm shop and cafe. It's a fairly new building, so was suitable for his wheelchair. We had a lovely dinner, talked non stop and were there for about 3 1/2 hours! I really enjoyed it - good food and excellent company.
Thursday saw me going out again! My bestest friend Susie B came round and we walked to see her Gran, who's 92. I love Gran. I've not seen her for a few years and she's not changed at all. She's absolutely brilliant for 92! We had a good giggle and she fed us sausages and bacon and cakes! Now now, before you shout at me for taking advantage, Gran insisted and wouldn't take no for an answer!
Friday was visitor day. H came round about 14:00 and then we were joined by Sue and Mike on their visit from Spain. H is looking big now (only bump - don't mean fat!!) and can't wait for little yum-yum to arrive (we think she's got a big yum-yum in there as she had a penchant for them when she was at work!).
Sue and Mike look brilliant. Life in Spain is obviously doing them the power of good. Sue brought prezzies for both H and me. Knitted cardigans for H and books, scarves and a modesty panel for me. My first scarves!!! Love the colours (orange and blue), just need to find out how to tie them on now - YouTube here I come! Mike brought doughnuts - full of jam, delish. Chris came home just as H was leaving, so he managed to see Sue and Mike for a bit before they continued with their hectic schedule. They were full of compliments for him about his photos (they both did a degree in photography).
Well considering I don't have lots to say, I've done a pretty good job so far!
Ooh ooh, before I forget: Rob, if you're reading this - Dollhouse, we're hooked! Can't believe they scrapped it. You said to stick with it as it starts off a bit slow, but we love it. We've only got 2 more episodes to watch :-(
Will definitely have to get hold of the 2nd series!
So that's been my week so far. How am I? Well, the cords in my arm are getting on my nerves, but I'm still stretching and massaging them. I'm still doing my exercises - that helps release them a bit. I've found some t-shirts that aren't too low or too high - so I bought 6 (they were in the sale)! Wearing them makes me feel a bit better. Unfortunately , I can't find a bra that I'm comfortable with. Frances doesn't have adjustable straps and because the comfy is so light, it tends to ride up and looks a bit more perky than the other one! I thought adjustable straps might help, so I've been ordering a few online. One made me look very "pointed" on 1 side and crinkly on the other, so that went back! The others have either been too tight or not fitted properly. So at the moment it's a case of sticking with Frances and pulling 1 side down every now and then - whenever and wherever!
Liv went out last night and didn't get home until the (late!) early hours. She's working an 8 hour shift today and looked like death warmed up as she left. She finishes at 19:00, so will be in bed by 19:30, I'm sure!
Adam's going to watch the local football team later with a friend and Vaughan's watching Plymouth Argyle's first match of the season (a rare televised event) against Southampton. Argyle have just scored (also a rare event - ha ha - sorry Vaughan!)!
Chris wants us to plan our week ahead, motivation to actually get out. Better finish off here then and start planning...........
Chris has already blogged about last weekend - well, Saturday at least. I won't bore you with the same tale, other than to say, I'm not always that critical of him (not in my mind anyway and if he did things right in the first place, I wouldn't have to be!).
The walk is one of my favourites in Wiltshire. The route we take isn't long (a couple of miles, but you can go much further) - the views from the top of the hill are fantastic. At the top I fantasise about being it my garden, sitting with a large glass of red, looking out at the rolling hills and flat plains below. Then I remember the nearby golf course and realise that there'd be people walking past and hitting balls into my garden.....maybe not the ideal place after all!
Sunday and the rest of the week were punctuated with us trying to find somewhere to go for a last minute break before chemo starts. Needless to say we couldn't find anything, otherwise we'd be on our way today and the blog would've had to wait even longer to be updated!
Everyone was eager that we get away (friends, parents, husband), but it seemed daft to me to go just anywhere that was available. It's not my idea of a break to be in the middle of a holiday camp surrounded by 2000 caravans and no view to compensate. Anyway, the idea now is to go for days out. I did suggest that Chris take the boys camping for a few days, but none of them are eager to go anywhere without me. They're already getting invitations from friends which is annoying Chris as he wants us to do things together. Liv has work and work experience so, unfortunately, she's out of the equation really. I feel terribly guilty. It's down to me that we're not going away, Chris is desperate to have a proper break after everything that's gone on and is to come. If I was more flexible with accommodation etc...............am I being too selfish???? Anyway, the decision's made now - I'm sure we'll sort things out.
Wednesday, I went for lunch with my brother Chris. He came over and picked me up around 11:45 and we went to Allington Farm shop and cafe. It's a fairly new building, so was suitable for his wheelchair. We had a lovely dinner, talked non stop and were there for about 3 1/2 hours! I really enjoyed it - good food and excellent company.
Thursday saw me going out again! My bestest friend Susie B came round and we walked to see her Gran, who's 92. I love Gran. I've not seen her for a few years and she's not changed at all. She's absolutely brilliant for 92! We had a good giggle and she fed us sausages and bacon and cakes! Now now, before you shout at me for taking advantage, Gran insisted and wouldn't take no for an answer!
Friday was visitor day. H came round about 14:00 and then we were joined by Sue and Mike on their visit from Spain. H is looking big now (only bump - don't mean fat!!) and can't wait for little yum-yum to arrive (we think she's got a big yum-yum in there as she had a penchant for them when she was at work!).
Sue and Mike look brilliant. Life in Spain is obviously doing them the power of good. Sue brought prezzies for both H and me. Knitted cardigans for H and books, scarves and a modesty panel for me. My first scarves!!! Love the colours (orange and blue), just need to find out how to tie them on now - YouTube here I come! Mike brought doughnuts - full of jam, delish. Chris came home just as H was leaving, so he managed to see Sue and Mike for a bit before they continued with their hectic schedule. They were full of compliments for him about his photos (they both did a degree in photography).
Well considering I don't have lots to say, I've done a pretty good job so far!
Ooh ooh, before I forget: Rob, if you're reading this - Dollhouse, we're hooked! Can't believe they scrapped it. You said to stick with it as it starts off a bit slow, but we love it. We've only got 2 more episodes to watch :-(
Will definitely have to get hold of the 2nd series!
So that's been my week so far. How am I? Well, the cords in my arm are getting on my nerves, but I'm still stretching and massaging them. I'm still doing my exercises - that helps release them a bit. I've found some t-shirts that aren't too low or too high - so I bought 6 (they were in the sale)! Wearing them makes me feel a bit better. Unfortunately , I can't find a bra that I'm comfortable with. Frances doesn't have adjustable straps and because the comfy is so light, it tends to ride up and looks a bit more perky than the other one! I thought adjustable straps might help, so I've been ordering a few online. One made me look very "pointed" on 1 side and crinkly on the other, so that went back! The others have either been too tight or not fitted properly. So at the moment it's a case of sticking with Frances and pulling 1 side down every now and then - whenever and wherever!
Liv went out last night and didn't get home until the (late!) early hours. She's working an 8 hour shift today and looked like death warmed up as she left. She finishes at 19:00, so will be in bed by 19:30, I'm sure!
Adam's going to watch the local football team later with a friend and Vaughan's watching Plymouth Argyle's first match of the season (a rare televised event) against Southampton. Argyle have just scored (also a rare event - ha ha - sorry Vaughan!)!
Chris wants us to plan our week ahead, motivation to actually get out. Better finish off here then and start planning...........
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