Where Does the Time Go!?

Whoosh! What the "H" was that!? Holy Crap! That was Christmas! Gone! Just like that! All that build up then Poof, gone. Seriously, it is nuts! We had a very nice Christmas, very snowy which made it even better. I spent Christmas Eve day/evening wrapping presents and getting everything ready. I was done early so I just spent several hours listening to my music and looking at the tree. It was calm and peaceful and I enjoyed it.
I picked the kiddos up on Christmas Day and we had a very nice day. They got pretty much everything they wanted minus a puppy. Luckily no one was disappointed with their gifts and the food was good too. My mother and step-father came and because of the snow they ended up staying a day longer than they had planned but we had a good time.

So now it is the 29th. Rex will pick the kids up tomorrow at 10 and I will do my last minute "stuff" before getting on the road to Cedar Rapids to catch a plane to Denver. I am going to Vail to see Simon and meet his family. I am REALLY looking forward to it. I will miss my children like CRAZY but will enjoy the view, company, and hot tub immensely. What a nice place to spend New Years don't you think?

I have been keeping myself extremely busy which is the best thing for me. Idle time tends to send me into my head too much(this can be a VERY ugly place to be on the wrong day). I have even taken down all of the Christmas decorations already, this usually doesn't happen until Valentine's Day. Good for me!

So that's about it I guess. Life is moving along. Just me and the kiddos. Connor has his last bi-annual cancer check on the 6th. Next one will be in July and that will be the magic 5 years off of treatment. What a milestone! And to think back in March of 2002, when the docs said, "in July of 2010 we will be able to give him an even better prognosis..." I didn't even think the world would be around to see 2010 then. And here it is upon us. What a stinkin' journey/roller coaster the last 8 years have been.

Still missing you Aaron. We all think about you every day.

Cheers!

A

Woo Hoo

Two day count down to Christmas break. Ready and not so ready. Either way it will get here though, I guess, so no use in worrying about it I suppose. I have quite a bit to keep me busy. The kids will split their time between me and Rex, obviously. My mother and step-father will be here for Christmas so the kids and I will enjoy their company.

I have gotten back into my scrapbooking which I have missed. I am enjoying the time with the girls and it's nice to not have drama going on.

So far I have one trip planned. I am going to go out to Vail, CO to spend New Year's with an old high school friend and his family. They have been kind enough to invite me into their lives for a few days. I will get to meet his little girl, can't wait. Perhaps do some skiing. They live in the mountains and have a hot tub so I am hoping for some soaking in the snowfall with some wine time. It will be a nice break and it will be so good to see Simon again and meet his family.

Again, I ask that you keep Scott and his family in your thoughts. He leaves after the first of the year, from what he has told me. Being gone again I am sure isn't going to be easy for them. I know it isn't for me.

cheers
A

Day to Day

Almost to Christmas break. The school year is going very fast. Having such a great class really helps out.

My Muston babies are doing well. Some coughing but all in all pretty good. The boys both achieved perfect attendance for the first trimester. I am very proud of them and they are too.

Scott has been called up to Afghanistan which breaks my heart. Prayers and safe thoughts for him would be appreciated.

Not much else to report.

A

Thanksgiving Day 2009

Here in St. Charles with the kids. We will be here through Sunday. So far the kiddos are behaving really well. We are watching the parade right now.
The holidays are rough.

What Is Up In Keokuk

Trimester 1 is over at school. Hard to believe the year is already a third over. Both boys were able to achieve perfect attendance which makes Connor very happy. I think that as long as he stays healthy he should be able to get it all year. His academics are also doing well. All in all he is having a much better year from last year. The bullying is also getting better. He isn't nearly as nervous about going to school.
Kyla is thriving at the Inertia Center. Of is crazy how much she has learned already. She is soaking up everything like a sponge.
Cameron is doing great and loves being at school as long as he doesn't have too much work afterwards that might keep him from playing.
We are heading up to St. Charles on Wednesday for the Thanksgiving holiday. It will be nice to get away. I guess. I am going to try to run and see if this tendon/hamstring injury is resolved enough to handle a run.
Well, cheers.
A

What's Up in @

Moving on

Sometimes moving on just isn't as easy as some make it seem. I don't know that I can do it.

A Reunion of Sorts

I am getting ready to head to Champaign, Illinois. I am going to celebrate with my friend Julie her victorious battle over lymphoma(in honor of Julianna Banana I will not capitalize the word). Julie is an amazing person who has overcome a lot in her lifetime. She hasn't had it easy and continues to battle on through life with a very positive attitude. I believe, that very much like my son, we can all learn a lot from her.

So, as I was saying, she is having a party at Jupiters in Champaign and there will be several people from my first high school there. I haven't seen these people since I left in October of 1985 so I am nervous. Going alone doesn't ease the nerves either but what are ya' gonna do?

So. I will let everyone know how it goes when I get back. Wish me luck.


Cheers!
A

My Son

My son is amazing. All 3 of my kids are amazing. They have all had to deal with medical crap and have come out of it with, I won't necessarily say grace, but with amazing attitudes. Kyla was pretty little when she dealt with her renal issues but for a baby and early toddler she handled being poked and prodded as well as she could. When Cameron was diagnosed with ITP this last spring, while he didn't like that his activity was limited and he didn't like having to get bloodwork every week, he did it with a very grown up attitude. He even explained to his friends why he couldn't jump on the trampoline for a few days or play fight or many of his other rough house boy activities.
And of course Connor. We all know what he went through and in many ways is still having to deal with it(meaning the long term effects). But his heart and his attitude towards other people has got to be the most amazing for a 10 year old that I know.

Connor can't stand to hear or see people fight or argue. He doesn't understand why everyone he says hello to(and he says hello to EVERYONE) doesn't always say hello back. He is friendly, caring, sensitive, and has the unbelievable ability to feel empathy like no other I have met.

This morning when I was taking everyone where they need to be for the day we were listening to a radio station that has a DJ who has his own charity that grants trips and wishes to chronically and terminally ill children(Kidd's Kids). The DJ is from this area of Iowa and is taking donations this morning in Burlington. Connor was insistent that we go after school and make a donation. He said, "Mom, we have to do that. These kids are like me. They need to smile and play like I did at Disney World. Maybe they could even see Shamu." I told him how nice it was that he wants to help these kids but we were going to miss this particular event since it would be over by the time we got out of school. I did tell him how some kids who have been through stuff like him have birthday parties and they don't ask for gifts. Instead they ask for donations to charities to help other kids. He thought this was a great idea and even thought of Dance Marathon as a worthy cause.

I was blown away by this whole conversation. I have always known that my kids are amazingly special and have amazing hearts. I have always known that Connor is very sensitive to others' feelings. I truly believe Connor has enough love in his heart to heal the hurt and battered hearts of so many if they would just listen to him. I have been very sad these last few weeks and I still am. But today my son has helped me see that there is enough love to go around and I am certainly full of love for him and his brother and sister.

Cheers from a very proud mother.
A

Getting There

Getting there. The week is almost over.

Here...Waiting

Always.

DANCE MARATHON

Had a fabulous day at the Dance Marathon family picnic. Feels like home when I am with those families. They get it. I was happy and my kids were awesome and happy too. I am dreading the nighttime after they are asleep.

got through it

Today was an emotional day. I am glad it is Friday and I am VERY glad I have my babies.

I hope my mom and step dad are having fun in Greece.

I can't believe my baby girl turns 4 a week from tomorrow.

I am glad I can listen to a certain local radio station again without being repulsed.

I am hoping to get emotionally strong enough to deal with next week cause it will be a long difficult one.

But mostly I am thankful for all of the love on my life.

Not Fair

I realize that life is not fair. Believe me, I have had that lesson pounded into my head. Apparently The Powers That Be continue to think I haven't learned it yet. Let me just say this:

I HAVE!!!

Now can the heartbreaking sad horrible wretched stuff stop for a while? Please?

Seriously.

Thinking It's Time

I think it is time to get the skates on and head to the rink. Needing to feel the complete freedom that comes from going as fast as you can around the ice and the the feeling of jumping. Very exhilarating. Very mind numbing. Very comforting.

It's like being all alone in the world. Sometimes that is one of the best ways to feel.

Its Been A Long Time

I am very happy to say though that at the beginning of August we did find out that Cameron's ITP did go into remission and all signs of leukemia disappeared. Thank goodness. I was told, by Jane the Hem/Onc nurse who delivered the good news, that the ITP will probably rear itself again. Don't know when or how severely but when kids are diagnosed with it it does typically come back. Thankfully(or not so thankfully I guess) we know what to look for. I just don't want platelets under 50K since lower than that and he can't do any rough type of playing. Ugh. Until then I won't worry. He's healthy right now.

Connor and Kyla are both doing well. Kyla is adjusting to the new daycare situation. Slowly but she is adjusting. Connor's 5th grade year has started off fabulously! Knock wood. He is bringing home some great grades and doesn't complain about going in the morning. This makes me VERY happy and relieves a lot of my stress.

I have a great class this year. That coupled with the fact that I am much more centered than last year is making for a good time so far. Not without its issues but nothing too major at this point.

I have a vacay planned for Ireland with "the girls". This will happen the end of June through the first part of July. I can't wait. It will be a great time. Rex has said that he would take the kids while I go so I truly appreciate his help with that.

So. Making tracks here in Keokuk.

Cheers!
A

Just a Catch Up

Cameron is doing well. I haven't had to take him for blood work yet this week. He gets about a bruise a day but to me they aren't bad enough to put him through labs. He is getting tired of me checking him for bruises though. Until we figure out what his baseline platelet count is things will be frustrating for all of us. At least this is what I have read. I have also read that for the first month or even two the counts can, and usually do, fluctuate quite a bit. So far 113k is the highest we have gotten and this is a good number. Not normal but good.

The kids are going to their dad's this weekend. I will just be hanging out here I think. Mowing my wheat field and going to the pool. My friend from high school is having his annual summerfest party but I haven't decided on that yet. We gave Guinness away last week. We were able to find him a home with one of the gals who works at the vet. Her parents live on a farm and have another lab for him to play with. Also her father is home all day and I think that will help Guinness a lot. His anxiety meds were up to 3 and I just couldn't afford that along with having to board him when I was gone. I think he will be much happier where he can run and play all the time.

Summer is moving along though. The way it started out has made it seem like a slow one. The inconsistent weather doesn't help either. ICK.

I took the kiddos to the Chicago burbs last weekend and we had a great time. We went to the Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumberg and it was AWESOME! I highly recommend it. We went to the Geneva Pool with my girlfriend and her kids for 4 hours on Sunday and that was fabulous. Very nice pool. I went out with Chris for dinner on Saturday night. Love girl time with her. Scott surprised me and showed up. I didn't think I was going to see him except for Friday night. He came over to my mom's for a couple of hours with me and the kids. Saturday the marines were doing security for Kenny Chesney at Soldier Field. He left early so he could see me for a little bit. Unfortunately we didn't get to spend very much time together but it was nice to see him for a bit and very nice of him to surprise me.

Here's to hoping the summer picks up. I am sure it will. Having to deal with another medical diagnosis in one of my kids has been a bit overwhelming and I am still trying to figure out "why?" even though that is a question I will never get an answer to.

Cheers!
A

"In order for the light to shine so brightly, the darkness must be present."
Francis Bacon

Summer is Here....

But what would summer be without a little drama?

We finally got through the school year but the illnesses that hit our household continued until pretty much the very last day. Connor, however, is now a fifth grader and Cameron is a second grader. I can't believe that Connor has only one more year left in the same school with me. This makes me sad to say the least. Kyla is sad that she won't get to start school next fall. Since her birthday is the end of September she missed the cut off so she will always be one of the oldest in her class. She is soooo ready to go now. She will tell you that too.

I must let you all know of the drama that we had this past week. Cameron, as everyone knows, is a VERY active and rough playing little boy who always has bruises on his legs. The way he throws his body around I am convinced he will be a UFC fighter one day. Anyway, I noticed last week that he had a significantly larger amount of bruises on his legs but chalked it up to more time outside with the neighbors. Then on Monday when I picked him up from daycare I noticed a very large bruise on his back. It looks like he had gotten beamed with a baseball. When I asked him about it he had no idea there was anything on his back at all. I found this hard to believe but he is a tough kid. He finally told me that he had played dodge ball at day care and I figured he had gotten hit. The next day I showed the daycare providers and they were alarmed and suggested I take him to the doctor to have it looked at as the balls they use would not make such a huge mark. So I did. They ordered blood work and then the drama. Cameron's platelet count came back at 33,000. Low end of normal is 150,000. So the docs here were going to wait 2 weeks to repeat labs but that didn't seem right to me, especially with our history. To me low platelets is a HUGE red flag. So I called the University and talked with Connor's oncologist. She had me bring him up on Wednesday where they did their own blood work. Luckily his platelets were up to 45,000 but he was diagnosed with ITP. A blood disorder where his body is not recognizing its own platelets and fights them off. The good news is that this, if monitored closely, is not life threatening and there are treatment options. Poor active Cameron is out of his rough play mode though until his platelets reach at least 50,000. He will get his counts checked pretty regularly starting next week. The docs won't do a treatment on him to raise the counts unless the count drops to 20,000 or lower. From what I have read kids who are diagnosed with ITP usually go into remission by 6 months so that is very good news. I am very happy that it wasn't what we all feared and I know this is something that will be okay in the end. However right now, until we get his platelets up above 50,000 and stablized there I won't be completely at ease. Especially because of how active he is.
So, there you go, yet another medical issue we need to deal with and how bizarre that it is another blood thing. I am thankful though that he is with the same oncologist that Connor is with. Keep it in the family.

I am also trying to find a new home for Guinness. He has developed yet some more behavioral issues and he has become too much for me to deal with both financially and emotionally. It breaks my heart but my time and energy(and money) need to go to
my kids.

So I am starting this summer with a little break to get rejuvinated up here in North Chicago with Scott. He has reserves this weekend and will probably find out sometime this weekend if he is getting deployed. If he does this may be the last time I see him before he leaves. So, getting some Scott time and relaxing and I am going to let go of the things that just are.

Cheers!
A

The End is Near

WHEW! What a long year. I am ready to get it over with and get on with lazy(?) summer days. Sickness hit this house HARD here starting about 3 weeks ago and I thought it was making its way out. Unfortunately both boys came home complaining of stomach cramps so we may have one last go round.

I was seriously ill 2 weeks ago and it totally wiped me out. I am just now feeling just about 100%. Thank goodness it was then and not now I guess. Too much to do at the end of the year. Like Baseball. Cameron had his first game last night and he did very well. Obviously he is just learning the game but he had fun. One of his best buds is on his team and that helps A LOT. Connor's first game is tomorrow. If his practice last Sunday is any indication he should do pretty well. He seems to be picking up the game pretty well. He had a very nice hit, that's for sure.

I won't have the kiddos this weekend so I am headed to St. Chuck for some time with Chris. Hopefully Scott too will make an appearance. He is finishing up his work with Marine Week in Chicago. I think he will enjoy being home again. Found out he will probably be deployed so that is a bummer. We will have to have a farewell party for sure.

Kyla graduated back into her own bedroom. She now has a full size bed complete with Princess bedding. She has informed me that I need to take down the teddy bear wallpaper and put up princess paper. I informed her that I will not be putting up any wallpaper but rather some princess clings will do nicely.

We drive by the brand new aquatic center being put in daily and watching the progress is so much fun. Kyla is SOOOO excited to finally see some slides for her to go on too and not just the big kid ones. It is going to be nice.

Well, that's about it. Red Sox are still ahead of the Yankees and White Sox and barely ahead of the Cardinals. So all's good right now.

Cheers!
A

WHAT'S UP!!

Besides the fact that Boston is ahead of the White Sox and the Yankees who really cares?

I managed to get my lawn, or should I say wheat field, mowed Saturday. Sorry Baby but the "Scott" is gone. Guess you will just have to come down and re-tattoo the yard. I came down with a cough on Friday which I thought was just allergies but has proven to be something else. I mowed the lawn and felt worse but again thought it was allergies. Today I spent a lot of time laying down trying to relax.

Eric, TJ, and their respective 3 kids each, along with me and my three went to the Burlington Bees game last night. It was a lot of fun, stressful and got to be long for the littlest ones but it was fun just the same. Some cute pictures came from it anyway.

So here we go with another week. Only a few more left with work. I have only 2 class sessions of my grad class for this semester. I am ready for that to be over. Next weekend I am taking the train up into downtown Chicago. Scott will meet me at the train. I am looking forward to it. Hopefully the weather will be nice and we will be able to have some good outdoor fun. Hopefully I will be over whatever this nastiness is that I have right now.

Boot camp is awesome. We had our first weigh in and measurements last week. I dropped about 3 pounds and all totaled( from hips, abs, arms, calves, waist, thighs, chest) I lost 14 inches. Very excited about these results and makes me excited to keep at it also.

Off to watch Hotel for Dogs with the kids before bed. Take care all.


Cheers!
A

So That's Where My Broom Went!

It was at Fenway SWEEPING up the Yankees!

SWWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!

CHEERS CHOWDA TOWN STYLE!
A

Quick Update

My sister has been moved to the inpatient rehab part of the hospital and has begun that journey with her wrist and arm at this point. She is getting to be a bit more mobile with a wheelchair, with help, and I think that is lifting her spirits. She has some really cute get well cards on the way from Connor. Those will bring a smile too I think.

Scott was here and we had a great time, just us and with everyone else on Friday Night. He even fixed my lawn mower for me while I was at work. How sweet was that? Of course he then proceeded to mow "Scott" into the backyard but I actually think that was cute. He came to school on Friday morning and dressed in his dress blues he made quite a stir with pretty much everyone there. He did a great job with the classes and the teachers were impressed. I was/am very proud.

We went to the base ball game with Tony, Misty, TJ, and Eric and had a lot of fun but the Bees were losing pretty bad so we went to the races in Donnellson. First time I had ever been to any type of race and it was a good time. Good time and good company. After that we did go dancing. Scott and I danced most of the time which is what we do a lot of the time whether we are out or not. It was hard to see him go but I am glad he got to see some of his son's baseball game before it was called due to rain. Looking forward to seeing him again soon.

Take care. Time to chill out and go to sleep. A day of running and homework tomorrow before the kiddos come home. I miss them.

Cheers!
A

Needing a Weekend

This has been a very long week. I am not sure how Kyla is doing, she seems to have the digestive part under control, the cough is less croupy, but she started running a fever today. We shall see I suppose.

My sister. After 8 hours of surgery all I know now is that her left foot is good, she started rehab on her wrist/arm. As for her right foot, all I know is that "prognosis is guarded due to the severity of the injuries." She is in for a long rehab journey and I just hope she knows she has A LOT of love and support.

So, needing a weekend. Scott arrives tomorrow night. YAY! Haven't seen him in several weeks so it will be nice to spend some time with him. He is going to come to school on Friday morning and spend some time with the kiddos in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade telling about his experience in the Marines, in uniform to boot.
Later Friday he and I, along with Tony and Misty, and Eric and TJ are going to the Bees/Kane County Cougars game. The weather is supposed to be outstanding and we all totally enjoy baseball so it should be a great time. After the game probably some dancing back in Keokuk. Especially since I know at least 2 of the 3 men and I believe all 3 of the women like to dance. I really can't wait. I am ready for it.

I plan on running both Saturday and Sunday too. Try to make up for the Boot Camp I missed this week. Kyla being sick really wrenched that up. Since I am already seeing results I was a little depressed about missing it. My babies come first though, always. Period.

A

"It has been said that time heals all wounds. I do not agree. The wounds remain. In time, the mind, protecting its sanity, covers them with scar tissue, and the pain lessens, but it is never gone." Rose Kennedy

The Need for Speed

No, not the illegal kind, and not the automotive kind. Rather the kind you get when you put on and lace up a pair of boots that happen to be attached to a 1/4 inch blade of steel. Then you walk onto a flat surface of ice. Then you take off and stroke, harder and harder till all you can feel is the wind, you yourself have created, against your face and the sweat you are starting to build up going around and around the rink. Then you hear the sound, the best sound in the world next to the sounds of my own children's voices, the sound of the blades scraping against the ice. That is one of my all time favorite sounds, steel against ice. Then, when you have that speed up to a comforting one that starts to relax you, you quickly change your edge and go into a jump. For me it would probably be a flip. For some reason this is the jump I could launch into at a fast speed. You go up into the air and for just a split second, while you are hanging in the air and turning, you feel carefree. Some may remember one of my first blogs and the flying thing, feeling weightless, like being under water. This is kind of like that. It only lasts a split second on the ice but the feeling is amazing. When I first moved here to Keokuk I was skating at least twice a week, trying to get ready for adult nationals in California. I know that that is not going to happen now but I still have the skates and I know where there is a rink.
Like my workouts, skating has always had the same effect on me.
I think it is time to put the skates back on.

Not so cheery but trying to see the glass half full so....

Cheers!
A

Sunny and Sara

I should probably start off with Sara. She got a hold of me yesterday and she is scheduled to have the surgery on her feet and ankles today. I know this is a good thing but I am already having sympathy pains for her and the rehab she will have to go through. I am now in the process of trying to find some time to fly out to DC when I know she will be back so I can visit and help my dad and Pam to keep her spirits up. I believe she won't be able to leave the hospital for at least another 3 weeks though.

Had a day off from boot camp yesterday. Whew! The leg workout and the kickboxing on Monday and Tuesday left me in PAIN! Tonight it is an upper body and buns work out so that will be good. I say that now. I do enjoy it though and love the sweat I work up during the hour long class.

The sun is shining again today, thank goodness. It is truly amazing what just seeing the sun can do to one's mood. Add to that the warmer temps. I am soooo ready for summer and for the new pool to be open.

Right now, I will actually know for sure later today, it looks like Scott may be coming down here to visit next week. The plan now is to head to Burlington Friday for a Bees Game with a group of people. Should be lots of fun. They are playing the Kane County Cougars which is of course where Scott and I are both from. It will be nice to see him again since we haven't seen each other in about 4 weeks.

Well, I hope you are all enjoying sunny and milder weather where you are. Have a great day!

Cheers!
A

Thankful

I have realized, once again, that I have a lot to be thankful for. My sister is alive and recovering. Her recovery will be a very long one though and probably pretty painful. She is one tough chick though so no doubt she'll handle it. My dad saw the car when he went to clean it out and all he could say was that she is very lucky to be alive. Thank God for airbags. Her dog Jack, her life, was asleep in the back seat which saved his life.

I didn't end up going out to CO since we weren't sure where she would be and, indeed, she was transferred to Denver. The people at Vail Valley Medical Center took very good care of her and hopefully she will get the same in Denver.

I went out with a bunch of friends last night and had sooo much fun. Dance, Dance, Dance. It was great! First time I had ever been out dancing in Keokuk. To say it was an experience would be an understatement.

It is a beautiful day so I went for a run. Running on days like this always brings how lucky I am to the forefront of my mind. I am very lucky. In many many ways. I have wonderful people around me. You know who you are. I am glad you are in my life.

Cheers! And Happy Easter!
A

Sometimes things happen...

...a little differently than what you thought they would. I thought I was going to have a relaxing weekend at home and get some cleaning done. The kids will be with their dad this weekend. However, instead I am probably heading to Colorado. My sister was in a car accident with an 18 wheeler and is in the hospital. VERY banged up and in need of some MAJOR surgeries but she is alive and I have spoken with her. Her injuries are severe and we don't know a lot about what happened yet.

I really don't have much to say right now. Still in shock I guess. I am going to pack the kids bag, take it to their father's, then head to boot camp. Maybe the intense workout will get my head straight.

A

Just a Thought

When we were children, we used to think that when we were grown-up we would no longer be vulnerable. But to grow up is to accept vulnerability... To be alive is to be vulnerable.

Madeleine L'Engle (1918 - ), "Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art", 1980

FUN STUFF

Lots of planning going on here. Easter egg hunts this weekend, planning a girls' weekend with my cousins and sister, planning my girls' trip to Ireland( if anyone has been there and has ideas of places I MUST see let me know). Opening Day for Baseball!!!! Got my schedule ready so I can DVR the RED SOX games I won't be around to watch.

Starting Boot camp on Monday, finishing up both work and school for the year. So much to look forward to. Gotta' love it. AND the SUN IS SHINING TODAY!!!! About time!

Cheers!
A

APRIL!!!

Finally! Could use some pretty sunshine but I guess we must contend with the April Showers for a bit.

Last weekend in the burbs was an enjoyable time. Scott and I watched basketball and chilled on Friday. Good games last weekend. Saturday I went shopping with my friend Chris and got some great new clothes for Kyla- she loves them, can't wait to wear the flip flops that match her new dress. After that it was PORTILLOS for lunch. YUMMMMMMMYYYYYY!!

Chilled with Scott for a bit then before his birthday party and my dinner with Mark and his family. I had a little hot tub time which I ALWAYS love. Later that night we went out for a couple of drinks then called it a night. Woke up to snow and rain. Yuck. I was not hopeful about my drive back to K-Town but it turned out to be a beautiful day. I got back early enough to get a run in and it was a great one!.

It's been a busy week with report cards due and Parent/Teacher conferences next week plus class on Tuesday. Somehow everything gets done although I am not sure how but I am just gonna' go with it.

I signed up for a 4 day a week boot camp starting Monday. It is going to kick my A but I am ready for it. BRING IT!

Kids are with me this weekend and right now we have no plans and I kind of like that. Hopefully the weather will be nice.

Shout out to Julie- Keep kickin' it Girl! We are all behind you.

Cheers everyone!
A

Words to Ponder

Hold faithfulness and sincerity as first principles.

Confucius (551 BC - 479 BC), The Confucian Analects

Enough Already

This was a bad day. One of my students came back today. She was gone yesterday because her father passed away. I found out yesterday and just knowing that was horrible. She came back today and was so red eyed and sad that I had a hard time keeping it together. I called her over and told her that we were going to do everything we could to keep her smiling today, even if it was just for a little while. She threw her arms around me and squeezed me so tightly I was a bit surprised. My own children haven't even hugged me that hard in a long time.

I am done with March. My best friend has her birthday tomorrow. That is such a good thing. Scott's son's birthday is Sunday and that is such a good thing. His sister's birthday is Saturday, again, such a good thing. Also his nephew, again, obviously a good thing. Happy birthday everyone.

I hate that I seem to always be reminded of why I am so afraid of this month. My ex husband gave me a file today of things to get rid of if I wanted. Among them was the calendar from when Connor was first diagnosed. The Calendars were of March, April, May, and June. They were his med calendars to tell us what to give when; there was A LOT to do and give. One day that stuck out though was March 27th. This was the day we found out he was NOT in remission and would be put on the harder protocol. He was no longer standard ALL. He was a high risk. He wouldn't be in remission for another 14 days.

I am ready for March to be over.

Not so cheerful today.
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OH WOW! What a Weekend!

Had a fabulous time with TJ and Eric and their combined 6 kids and me and my 3 yesterday. It was a BEAUTIFUL day and we had so much fun riding all of the "toys" that Eric has. Well, the kids had fun riding them. Of course that is until Connor's ride on the 4 wheeler ended up in the barbed wire fence. His left forearm looks like he was in a fight with a VERY mean cat. He is fine though.

It sure is amazing how whole day outside can wear the kiddos out. Last night they all went to bed so quickly and fell asleep so easily. I was actually able to enjoy my evening. Took my shower, did the nightly load of laundry, sat on my bed and read my book, watched some tv, and successfully procrastinated doing homework for class on Tuesday. Apparently I was tired too though because I woke up at 12:30 and the TV was still on.

We had a birthday party at the roller rink in Kahoka, MO this afternoon. Cameron gave it a go and did well but, unlike him, he didn't attack it like he does most new ventures. Kyla also tried it out and LOVED it. They have the little skates that go on over shoes for little ones and so she put them on and scooted off. She even started going backwards and played limbo. Thankfully even though music was playing she did keep her clothes on, unlike her.

I am slowly clearing out stuff from my house. I have recently come across some things that don't belong to me and am trying to figure out how to get them where they need to be. I have found that this isn't as easy as it should be, unfortunately.

So another week starting. Can't wait for the weekend already. Seeing Scott, Chris, Mark, Donna, Michelle, and more. Gonna' be fun!

Cheers from Oak Dr.
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Busy Busy Fun Fun

I have the kiddos this weekend, YAY!!! We just got done running around the neighborhood collecting cans for cub scouts. Now we are are getting ready to go spend the day with a friend and her boyfriend and their respective kids for a cook out. This will be loads of fun. These kids get along so well. We have a birthday party tomorrow at the skating rink. So fun filled for sure.

Next weekend I am heading back up the St. Chuck way to spend some time with my marine and my former Sycamore teaching crew. And probably do some shopping for spring/summer clothes for the kids and hopefully get a couple of runs in along the Fox River. I really miss riding and running along that path. Quite frankly I miss EVERYTHING about that area.

The sun has been shining, I have been getting my 6 miles in, spring is officially here, and the end of the school year is finally in sight. Good Stuff!

Cheers!
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Marching on Through

Halfway through it. March got off to a rocky start, as it always does I guess. I am hopeful that the worst is over and the rest of the month will be FABULOUS!!! I have no idea what will make it fabulous but you never know I guess.
Back to running outside and it is WONDERFUL!!!! The weather has been soooo beautiful these last few days which is great for the mood for sure. I love running with the sun beating down on my face. I actually had a bit of a sunburn on Saturday. It is gone of course but it was nice while it lasted. 70s today. I think I am going to try to find a regular sitter to come in every day or every other day minus my class days so I can fit my runs in. Now that it is staying lighter longer it seems reasonable.

Let's see. I guess that's about it. Kids are healthy again and we are going to PLAY outside today after school.
So until next time-- GO GREEN!!!

Kiss me- I'm part Irish- does that count?
Scott- have fun tomorrow but you know what you need to keep in mind ;)

Cheers!
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Getting Through It

Well I got through yesterday pretty well. It was a very busy day so that helped. Every now and again I would stop and think, "Wow, 7 years ago today I was in the hospital with my son wondering how on Earth I/we were going to get through the next 3 1/2 years of our lives". Look at us now. A lot has changed that is for sure. Personally while it has been hard on all of us I still feel like everything has been for the better. Connor looks great, you'd never know he spent 40 months fighting for his life. I also think we are on the right track to getting him on a successful track in school. It will probably never be "easy" for him but I think he can be successful. Today is a better day. I still would prefer to skip March altogether though.

Cameron got VERY sick last week. Truthfully I have never seen him so sick except when he had his reaction to Penicillin. He lost a little weight and it has taken him a little time to recover but he is doing much better. He missed 3 days of school which ruined his perfect attendance record but there are worse things I guess.

Kyla is still Kyla(Chatty Kathy as I am starting to call her) thank goodness. She is a treat. Most days.

I would love to give a shout out to my old high school friend Julie. She was recently diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma and just started treatment. She has an amazing attitude and coupled with her good prognosis I know she is going to kick this monster right where it hurts. You Go Girl!! I will expect to be running a Team In Training Marathon with you in a year or so.

I had to go to court on Monday and it had nothing to do with my ex husband so that was good. Let's just say I am now able to move ahead with my life like I want to and hopefully the drama will be dramatically reduced.

Today I am hopeful.

Cheers!
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For the Last Week(and possibly the next too)

Tough times don't last but tough people do. - A.C. Green

Oops

I mean that 7 years have gone by.
Sorry. Hasn't been the best of days lately.

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In Like a Lion

Truer words have never been spoken. Uggh.


I had fabulous last day of February though. I went up to St. Charles/Geneva for the weekend and on Saturday went into the city. We had a great time. We went to Ralph Lauren for a glass of wine and good conversation. Then we had dinner at Le Colonial. Fabulous dinner with an even more fabulous dessert- Banana Wonton with dark chocolate sauce. OMG AMAZING! After that we went to Hugo Frog's to listen to the piano man. For some reason he wouldn't play Piano Man- go figure. After that we got in line behind the velvet rope for La Passage, a dance club. We got let in and had to go through the velvet rope through a little tent, down the alley then through a door to an underground dance club. It was pretty cool. I would like to go back sometime and stay a little longer. We didn't stay terribly long because we decided to catch an earlier train back out to Geneva. When we got back we met up with some other friends in Geneva for a bit.
It was a great time and I really needed the stress relief. Sunday on my way home I went out to Hinckly and met Scott and Greg at Oyster Sunday. It was fun and the oysters were very good.

Hopefully this week will be good because next Monday and Tuesday are not going to be fun days. 6 years have gone by. Why does it feel like yesterday?

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!
Cheers!
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March

March is coming- quickly. It always does. It's a hard month for me. Maybe someday it won't be. Maybe.

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FABULOUS!

Absolutely Fabulous! Connor was actually RELEASED from pulmonary! I could not believe it. His PFTs were abnormal however they were exactly the same abnormal as they were 6 months ago. Dr. Ahrens explained that what this means is that Connor still has problems with his lungs and at some point he will probably end up back with them. For now his asthma is under control and the damage to his lungs is still very slight so he doesn't need the steroid inhaler and can use his albuterol as needed(as he is presently) and then use the liquid steroid boost when he has an exacerbation. Dr. Ahrens is comfortable that since his is still seen every 6 months with oncology that they will alert them to any problems they see or hear.
We will never fully be free from Children's of Iowa but I will take every break he gets.

The kids and I are heading to Chicago to see my parents. The ride is long but the kids have so much fun. They are expecting snow again so I have packed all the snow stuff. Maybe we can go out and make snow angels like Cameron, Kyla, and I did over Christmas break.


Oh and Airplane Guy, if you are out there, I am anxiously awaiting to hear how your ski trip went!!!

Cheers!
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Breathing Easy

I will be taking Connor up to Children's Hospital of Iowa tomorrow for his 6 month pulmonary appt. I don't anticipate there being any problems. I even think his breathing tests will be normal. With any luck, other than perhaps a med check at the Center for Disabilities and Development, he should be done with IC appts until July. He will be seeing oncology and cardiology. Since some of the chemos can damage his heart and the fact that he had to have higher doses of them than the standard, he is at a greater risk for heart damage. We did find a benign arrhythmia a couple of years ago but so far it hasn't progressed to anything. KNOCK WOOD NOW!!!

Kyla has healed nicely from her surgery. Her voice is even close to normal. Not so "Smurfish." Hopefully now we will make it through the rest of the winter with everyone staying healthy. Her favorite past time is still dancing, preferably naked. This she proved to all 2000 people at Dance Marathon when she took off her shirt as soon as the music started. Very nice.

Cameron is trying to wait patiently for spring. Poor guy. If anyone ever needed to live in a warmer climate year round it is him. His favorite past time, besides playing outside, is still deciding which of his girlfriends he is going to marry.

3 1/2 more months until summer vacation. I AM READY!! As of right now I am getting an A in my assessment course. Hopefully I can hold onto that too.

Staying incredibly busy and extremely tired most of the time.

Cheers!
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Finally- An Update

Okay here's a quick low down on the last couple of months.
November was okay. Nothing too great. Nothing too terrible.
December brought Connor's appt. with the brain injury team in Iowa City and annual post chemo cognitive/audiology testing. Hearing is still fine but they are still wanting to check him every year. Fine by me. I was finally successful in getting him some meds for his anxiety. Now it is monkey around time with dosages till we find the right one for him. Then of course there was his 6 month cancer check. This was with his new oncologist and all was fine. His counts were perfect. A big WHEW on that one.
The Christmas holiday was not the greatest and quite stressful.
My first graduate class ended and I did manage to get an A. So good start for that.
Now it is January. I turned 40 and am glad to be in my forties although it has been a bit of a rocky start. Kyla got sick and as I am typing this she is recovering from having her tonsils out. Yesterday was a bad day for her but I think she may have turned the corner. I have found out that she is allergic to Amoxicillin so apparently she is following in Cameron's footsteps on that one.
My second grad class started last Tuesday and I am looking forward to that. This one is an assessment class where I will be learning how to administer reading assessments.
The annual 24 hour Dance Marathon event is in 2 weeks and we are all very excited about that. I did find out yesterday that we will get to stay in the Iowa House which is in the same building as the event. Very Nice.

That's about it for now. Moving along but not without stress but we are all dealing with it.

Cheers!
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