Blog Problems

Yesterday I had a problem with my blog page. Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused. Hopefully, you all have other important things to do each day besides read my jibberish. If not, here goes....

You know how I whined about bad coffee, being pent up in the house, and getting tired of the snow? Well, while Rick was hard at work yesterday, my friends Cathy and Reid came and picked me up and took me out for a day of fun. Reid took Cathy and I down memory lane and "spun a donut" (went around in circles in the snow with the car for those of you who didn't know the terminology) in our driveway before we left. Boys never change. But that' ok, we love them anyway. We went to Starbuck's for peppermint mocha's, then shopping for Christmas cards (though I never found any that were perfect). Rick met up with us for lunch so we had a chance to do a little more talking and laughing. It was a wonderful day. Reason #11,347 to stay around for a very long time.... Snow days with my friends.

I was watching a show yesterday that said men speak an average of 7,000 words per day and women speak an average of 20,000 per day. Is this because women have more important things to say? Just wondering. I'm usually very quiet, so I think I only say about 5,000 words. I'll let you be the judge.

It looks like we're going to get some relief from the weather. Though it's still very beautiful outside, it's finally warming up. Thank goodness. Now, we need it to warm up slowly so we don't have more flooding. It seems like our little community has had it's share of hard times this year. Maybe December will be good to us.

I've attached a few photos from the past couple of days. In one of the photos, Rick is outside with our little niece, Darlena (better known as, Auntie's girl). She is reason #11,348

I'm sure we have to head back to work tomorrow (however, I have tests in Seattle all afternoon so I won't be working much) so I think I'll take this time off to wrap a few more presents and enjoy the peace and warmth of home.

Love you more than all the melting snowmen in Western Washington....

Dream (Warm) Big,
Dor

Snow Day #2

You know how we say "isn't it beautiful" on day #1? Then day #2 comes and we realize that we can't leave the house without the driving abilities of someone else? And... although it's pretty, the power outages have run their course...And... there is always something we're hungry for but we can't get in the car to go to the store... Well tomorrow will be day #3 and it doesn't look like the snow is going anywhere. Now, it's starting to lose it's sense of wonder... I'm feeling pent up. I have places to go, and people to see. I need a coffee (a real one). Though it's still pretty to look at, I've decided to take a couple of photos and look at them every once in a while to get the desire I have for snow... out of my system.

I went to work today (with the help of my boss and Rick). It's amazing how much work I can get done without answering the phone and without kids in the school buildings. I know everyone at work is understanding when I have to leave for appointments or if I'm not feeling well, but I always feel guilty. So, when I have the opportunity to work on a day like today (and again tomorrow) it makes me feel ok about leaving work early or coming in late.

I took out my Christmas decorations and boxes of ornaments today. The house is starting to come together with the feeling of the holidays. I have a lot more to go, but since it isn't even December yet, I'm trying to take it slowly.

I really am feeling great! And as Martha Stewarts says: "That's a good thing"

Stay warm. It's going to be a cold one tonight.

Freezing (I mean Dreaming) Big,
Doreen

It's beautiful outside....

Now that I have power again, I thought I should catch up on the blog. The Arlington, Stanwood - Camano Island areas were apparently the hardest hit with power outages as well as heavy snow fall - hence, I had no computer, or land phone, or light - how did the Waltons survive?. I love looking at the snow...you just don't want me to drive in it. Trust me. I'm the one you're looking out for when you're on the road.

My niece Darlena spent the afternoon with me while her parents went to an appointment. It was fun watching her experience snow for the first time. She came bundled up like the kid from the Christmas Story movie. Days like this are always memorable for me. I hope to have these experiences for many years to come.

I like to think of snow as nature's equalizer. When we get a heavy snowfall like we've just had, everyone's yard looks clean (or at least covered up), you don't see all the mud and yuk that has accumulated because of all the rain, and every house looks happy. Now, for the bad news. My least favorite weather is when the rain comes after a snowfall, the temperature rises and we have dirty slush everywhere. Reality sets back in and we realize we should have taken care of our flower beds before that first frost or put the lawn furniture away. Oh well, there's always another day.

I've got a couple of big appointments in Seattle on Friday. I hope the weather clears up by then. Rick will be taking me (for those of you worried about your safety on the streets) because I'm still not driving with my "aircast boot". I need to keep hearing good news when I go down South. With the holidays coming we all need to focus on spending healthy quality time together...not on illness.

I feel like I'm rambling tonight so I'm going to say good bye for now. I'll write more later or tomorrow sometime.

Dress warm and be safe.
Hugs, Doreen

Saturday Night

Jake left about 8:30 tonight to head to Megan's house in Seattle so they can leave early in the morning. You know me, I'll be worrying until I know they're back in Pullman. Luckily he knows what a worry wart I am, so he'll call when he leaves Seattle, then when they get across the pass (maybe even on the pass to assure me that everything is ok), then again when he's about 100 miles from Pullman, then once he gets there. It doesn't matter what age my kids are, I worry about everything. (I'm sure this was one of the many things my mother taught me...thanks MOM!)

Yesterday I think I had a shoe on that didn't quite even out my balance with the aircast boot, so today my "good" leg is aching like I have shin splints. What next? Chickenpox? Just kidding. I had those when I was 5 years old and gave them to everyone in my neighborhood. I was such a sharing child.

As I wrapped Christmas presents tonight, I had to write everything down as I wrapped it so I didn't forget. Sometimes I have a complete brain malfunction and I have to re-open gifts I've bought just to jog my memory. If I went to the doctor for some help, I'm afraid they would diagnose me with ADHD (Attention Deficit Holiday Disorder) I'm sure you can all relate.

I hope to start putting my tree together tomorrow, I'm sure it will be beautiful. If not, at least it won't "dry out" so it will always look "fresh".

Dream Big,
Dor

Shopping Day 2006

Didn't you love the photo from yesterday? It's funny how people will look at it and say "what a nice looking family you have", but for me "I know what they have in their hearts, so I look at the photo and say "What an incredible family I have and how did I get so lucky?" Oh, and they're so cute too!

I've taught my children and husband well. Jake left the house at 2:00am today to wait in line at Best Buy because he kept having a dream that when he got there the store was completely empty (I think it was a turkey hangover talking...) He thought this was a sign so he left early. When he got to Burlington (at 2:30am) the line was already around the building. Perserverence paid off. He got what he waited for and saved over $300 (just like going to Geico). He said it was worth the wait. The store opened at 5:00am and at 5:06 he had already checked out. Rick set our alarm for 4:00am and we were in and out of the shower and ready to go at 4:30 am. We were at the stores by the time they opened at 5:00. Angie and Erin went south early in the morning. We called each other a half dozen times to brag about our bargains. Angie had enough of all the rude people she could handle by noon and I think she was home by 1:00. She said she bought lots of things, and since she's been a good girl this year, many of the things she bought were for herself. Amy took her time, and went shopping this afternoon. I'm sure she found some very nice things...she just didn't have to fight the crowds like the rest of us. Sales don't interest Amy as much as being able to find what she's looking for. Oh sure, she likes to get a good deal just like the rest of us it's just not a challenge for Amy like it is for me. Maybe she's the smart one. I wasn't out long today. I came home, took a nap and rested my foot and lungs. After dinner, I went out again for a couple of hours with my sister-in-law Vickie. We had fun and I actually found what I was looking for. Now it's time to start wrapping...

I have the Day After Thanksgiving Frenzy out of my system, so now just want to start decorating for the holidays. I need to get it done soon, because all of this preparation is cutting into my knitting time. I know I joke about it being an addiction....but I might need to go to knitters anonymus. Imagine what I would be like if I knew how to knit anything besides a scarf! They would find knitting needles and yarn in my drawer at work in a brown paper bag. I'd have to quit my job. My family would have an intervention. I'd be in total yarn detox - for at least 28 days. Thank goodness I can quit whenever I want... I just don't want to yet.

Tonight for dinner, I made turkey and dumpling soup. I have to say this was some of my best ever. Please don't ask for the recipe. Not that I wouldn't share it, it's just that I'm not sure what I did and I wouldn't be able to duplicate it. That's the problem with being an impulsive, inventive cook. You have no idea what you're doing, or how you did it. Thank goodness my children and huband weren't picky all these years. They would have starved. :( People often say I should write a book. Maybe it should be a cookbook. I'll call it, "Don't know what we're having but you'll probably like it".

My baby brother Darren turns 40 years old tomorrow. I hope to see him on Sunday to celebrate this special occasion. He is happier and healthier than I've ever seen him before. Life is good for him and that brings me joy. He's the best brother I could have asked for, however, I don't remember asking for a brother. We'll talk about that later.

It's time for me to go now so I can get my beauty sleep. (Who knows when I'll wake up...that beauty thing is going to be a BIG JOB)

I love you more than all the crazed shoppers in line at 4:45 this morning. Oh wait...that was me.

Dream Big,
Doreen

Thanksgiving Day 2006

I just read Amy's words and I couldn't agree more. We are a very thankful family.. this year more than ever.

I was in the kitchen this morning doing one of the things I love to do the most...cooking. Rick was reading up on his turkey frying guide. Jake was doing the dishes as I made them dirty. We were listening to music. And it hit me. I love this holiday. I love the smells. I love knowing that the paper will be huge and we can plan out our crazy shopping morning. I love how my family tricks me to look the other way so they can sneak some stuffing when I'm facing the other way. I also love how we stand around the table and say what we're thankful for (I hope the turkey doesn't get cold with all I have to say) As I stood in the kitchen with life happening all around me, I began to cry. Big tears. Happy tears. Sad tears. Tears of courage. Tears of fear. Tears of hope. I don't ever want to think of a holiday as my "potential last one". So, I'm not going to. I'm just going to think of each one as my new favorite. So, when the time comes (many years from now) there will only be laughter, smiles and joy attached to the memories of our last "big holiday".

Be happy, be silly, be kind, be good to yourself, be THANKFUL.

Love you til' the turkeys come home...
Big Dreamer Dor

More thankful than ever before

Here I sit, the night before Thanksgiving, and I feel more emotional than I have in a long time. Some emotions are good, others are causing my eyes to fill with tears, but I wouldn’t change any of it.

Our family has a tradition on Thanksgiving Day that was started by my Aunt Vickie a few years ago. We go around the table and individually say what we are thankful for. Although some people say what they are truly thankful for, others have made a joke of it and often use it as an opportunity to make others laugh during their 5 seconds in the spotlight. For some reason, I don’t see that happening this year. Everyone in the room will be thankful for my mom’s presence. All of us are thankful the Tarceva seems to be doing its job. All of us are thankful that 7 months have come and gone and mom seems just as healthy, if not healthier, than she was when she was diagnosed.

I know how much my mom loves this time of year. She loves to cook and entertain. She loves putting up her Christmas tree, and driving around looking at lights. Because this time of year has always been mom’s favorite, I want it to be special. I will never forget the last time I saw my Grandma Darlene before she lost her battle with Cancer. It was Thanksgiving Day 1991. The family went to Seattle to see her in the hospital. Although it was many years ago, I will never forget walking out of that hospital room and wondering if it would be the last time I saw her alive. She lost her battle shortly after. I think of her on occasion when certain things happen in my life, but I especially think of her on Thanksgiving Day.

So, on this evening before Thanksgiving, I want to stop and reflect on the year we’ve had. The births, the deaths, the new friends we’ve made, and the faithful ones who have always remained by our side. The things that happen around us and to us are the things that have made us who we are today. For that… I am Thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you-
With Love,

Amy

Thanksgiving Eve

The doc confirmed that nothing is broken but that I will need to be patient with the healing process. He gave me permission to shop on Friday...(well, I think he said something like that, I might not have been listening just then)

I've done all my shopping, Jake straightened up the house today while I was at work, the girls are coming over early to help prepare Thanksgiving dinner, Rick is getting ready to stoke up the turkey fryer... This year more than ever, we have so much to be thankful for.

Rick has been feeling under the weather lately (not just since the flu) so he went in for a check up today. His EKG was a little weird so they're going to run more tests on his heart next week. If his love for me is any indication how his heart is doing, I'll say it's as strong as ever. He has low iron too (so I've decided he will have to do all the ironing...I'm not sure if it will help...but it can't hurt). Stress can certainly do a number on our bodies and Rick's body is no exception. I reminded him today how much I need him around so he has to stop worrying about me and start worrying about getting himself better. He told me to follow my own advice. I think we're a lost cause. Look what happens as we start to get old... We forget who we're suppose to be worrying about.

I'll try to write more tomorrow before my guests arrive. If I don't get a chance, have your happiest Thanksgiving ever. In case you think you might eat too much dinner, nibble on dessert first. (There's nothing like good ol' pumpkin pie for an appetizer)

Dream a dream for me,
Dor

Health Update

My ankle is still attached to my leg. It's still a little swollen. I have some discoloration (but it's not bad). I'll see a specialist tomorrow who I'm sure will tell me that the ankle is fine and I should be able to power shop on Friday morning starting at 5:00am. This is a ritual and I would hate to have to do it in a wheelchair. (Have you ever tried get through the isles with a cart let alone a wheelchair?) Enough said. If you're out there on Friday morning...look for me.

The cough? It's still there, though it's much better. Not so deep in my chest. My sexy raspy voice is softening. I'm actually coughing stuff up (sorry for the visual). I have a CT chest scan and a brain MRI next Friday. Again, I'm sure they will tell me I'm defying odds and everything looks great. I'll give you the update after my follow-up appointment on December 6th.

It was just about a year ago when I really started to feel cruddy with a wheezy cough and pneumonia that wouldn't go away. I'm so glad to be where I am today. Happy, feeling good, and loving life.

When my kids were little we used to share this poem (I think one of the girls wrote it)

I love you, I love you, I love you so well...
If I had a peanut, I'd give you the shell.

Though it might sound cruel to some of you, it means "I really love you". So for tonight....

If I had a peanut, I'd give you the shell,
Dor

Short Week

I've always liked the week of Thanksgiving, at work. It seemed like we just got started, then before you knew it, the week was over. With my gimpy foot, I'm limping in late then heading home early. I'm bringing work home with me so it's not like I'm just sitting around doing nothing...but tomorrow is already Tuesday...then it will be Wednesday (half day) then no work until next Monday. I feel a little guilty... Ok, I'm over it.

This sounds so redneck when I say it, but Rick is going to deep fry the turkey again this year. For those of you who have never tried it cooked that way...come on over. It is the juiciest bird we've ever had. I still put a small bird in the oven so I can have drippings for gravy, but deep fried really is the best. Last year, Rick cooked 5 different turkeys for friends and family. It only takes about 3 minutes per pound. So, a 20 pound turkey is done in about an hour...

Since my diagnosis, I have been very lucky to connect and/or reconnect with some wonderful people. I run into folks everyday who say "Oh, Doreen, I read your blog all the time" and I'm amazed. Why would anyone want to read my words? Is it so they can keep up with the local sporting news? Perhaps gather some cooking tips? Find out what I'm getting everyone for Christmas? I'm not sure why you've all stuck with my yadda yadda, but I'm so glad you have. I love to share my life. Both the great and the clumsy versions. I'm excited to let you know that I'm feeling better than I expected to. I can't wait to share pictures of the holidays. I'm just happy that you want to be a part of my life. I'm glad to be a part of yours.

Turkey Day is just around the corner (then I get to put my "FAKE" tree up - I think I'll do it before Jake goes back to college, I know he's really excited about it)

Love you BIG,
Dor

Celebrating 7 Great Months....

I know, I know....sometimes I forget to write, other times I forget what I was going to write about. Like today. So here are some more of my thoughts for Sunday, November 19th.

See how fast 7 months came and went? Except for the bum ankle and the little cough, I'm almost as good as new. (oh, and the lung cancer but so far that hasn't slowed me down)

Have an incredible week. And remember, there is no better time to "give thanks" than now.

Love you more than turkey and mashed potatoes...and stuffing, and cranberries, and pumpkin pie, oh and gravy... Close your eyes right now and breath in. Can't you smell it? It's my FFH (favorite food holiday)

Keep dreaming big,
Dor

Seahawk Sunday

Though the Hawks aren't doing very well today, I'm still enjoying myself because I'm spending the day with the kids and Rick. Jake is home for Thanksgiving break so we're all here... It couldn't be better. (well, yes it could... who am I kidding?) Erin brought over chili and cornbread so our tummys are warm and full.....

Rick gave me "permission" to go to the Stanwood girls state soccer championship game last night in Tacoma. He fought me on it - but I won. I was bundled up (with a scarf, hat, gloves, blanket, etc.) and my foot was propped on a stool that Janeen brought along. I promise I was very well taken care of. We lost a close one 1 - 0. Even though I'm sure the team is dissapointed, our community is very proud of their accomplishment. 2nd in State is nothing to feel bad about. Go Spartans!

Honestly, the swelling has gone down significantly in my foot (according to me) and it doesn't hurt too bad. I've been coughing a bunch, but my chest doesn't feel as tight so I think the gunk is finally breaking up. I'm on the mend. Nothing to worry about. Please convince my family. (They're making me a little nuts - but I know it's because they love me)

I'm looking around my house right now and I'm smiling because of all the beautiful flowers I've been sent over the past few days. It really does brighten my life when I'm blessed with fresh flowers. Thanks Mom and Dad, Bob & Dy, Bonnie, and Pam. Thanks too for all the kind e-mails and cards. I'm so thankful to have all of you in my life.

Gotta get back to the game. You never know what might happen.

Love you more than all the rain in Washington today...

Dream Big,
Doreen

Day 2 on the couch

I really don't like sitting on the couch with my foot up in the air...I want to go watch girls soccer (they won again tonight and will be playing in the State Championship game tomorrow night at 8:00pm in Tacoma). And vacuum. And shop. Or cook. I wasn't cut out for lazy. I've knit 3 scarves in the past 2 days. People are going to get sick of my scarf presents.

I'm trying to accept this "down time" as a healing opportunity. So far I'm not doing very well.
I need to have my foot up so the swelling goes down, and I need to have my head up so I won't cough. I've discovered that sleeping in the shape of a V is not that comfortable. Don't try it unless it's a last resort.

Tomorrow is Apple Cup. I'll be "hanging" around the big screen hopefully watching the cougars beat the huskies... Don't forget to root for my Spartan Girls Soccer Team....they've made us very proud!

Love you more than turkey and mashed potatoes...
Dream Big,
Dor

Bum Wheel

Since having lung cancer did not slow me down enough, I've been given a new challenge. Early this morning I was sitting at the computer (at home) and I stood up to answer my cell phone in the kitchen, when my foot decided to be asleep. I went to take a step and instead heard 3 or 4 pop sounds then fell to the floor. Luckily, nothing is broken. Unluckily, it appears I've torn some tendons in my ankle/foot. I guess this will slow me down whether I like it or not. I really am fine, but I'm not suppose to put any weight on it until I see a specialist on Wednesday (that's next Wednesday - 6 days from now) I'm sorry, but I have way too many things to do before then, so I'm going to be very good for the next few days and see if I can speed things up a bit. Crutches are my friend....

I'm sorry that I've been slacking on my blog lately. Now that I'm laid up with a cough and a bad wheel, maybe I can communicate a little more regularly.

Just a reminder that Thanksgiving is coming up. Even through some very challenging times we've faced this year, I'm constantly reminded how truly thankful I am. Take the time to reflect on your family and friends and I'll bet you'll feel the same way.

Love you more than all the turkeys in your grocery store's freezer, gobble...

Limping Big (I mean) Dreaming Big,
Dor A.K.A. Gimpy

Cough...Cough...

I intended to write earlier but after dinner I went straight to bed. I told you last night I was feeling a little under the weather and as today went on, my symptoms got worse. Because this is my first "full fledged cough/cold" since the diagnosis, I wasn't sure what to expect from my body. After work I stopped by my family doc to have him listen to my lungs. He said he could start to hear crackling in my lungs (a sign that pneumonia could be right around the corner...) so he started me on an antibiotic right away. Even though I've been feeling great all these months, I know my respitory system is compromised so I need to take extra special care of myself. If nothing else, this cough is making me have a deep raspy voice so I sound a little sexy (which isn't always an asset if you answer the phone all day....at a high school...."Hello...this is Doreen....what can I do for you...?")

In case I've forgotten to mention it lately, I am very grateful for all the love and support I get from all of you each day. From my childhood friends and family, to my dear close friends, to my newest friends whom I've just met, you give me so much hope and courage I can't imagine sharing this journey with anyone else.

I don't like these serious blogs. With that being said, intend to get well soon so I can lighten up my writing. I think you all appreciate my warped sense of humor so I'll try to get it back.

Love you more... 'nuff said..

Dream Big,
Dor

Where do I begin?

First, let me assure you that we will not be appearing on the back of a milk carton. We have not disappeared, been kidnapped, or joined a rock band. We're home and loving the warmth of our cozy livingroom and sleeping in our own bed.

Now, let me tell you of my experiences in San Francisco. Rick and I arrived in town on Wednesday which gave us time to enjoy the city before all the excitement started. We met up with Kim Mains and old family friend. She took us up to the top of the Mark Hopkins Intercontinental Hotel to see the city in all its beauty. And, it is a beautiful city! Afterwards, we walked to a neat little restaurant in Union Square where we had a wonderful dinner. Kim made our first night in San Fran a joy. We are very thankful to have spent the time with her. I've attached a photo of us at dinner.

On Thursday I got to meet "Breath Away From the Cure, Bonnie", her husband Tony and their children. They are amazing people who will make a difference in the world of lung cancer. As a matter of fact...they already have. When we met, it was as if I had known her all my life. I intend to keep her in my life as long as she'll have me. :) I already miss her.

On Thursday night Rick and I got all pretty and headed over to City Hall. It was a magnicifient building. Everyone there had been touched by lung cancer in one way or another. We were surrounded by amazing doctors, survivors and children of lung cancer patients (Bonnie's children and their spouses were kind enough to share their table with Rick and I for the event). There were over 600 people giving to the cause (in very large amounts I might add). From the video, to the dinner, to the amazing people we met...the night couldn't have been better (except that Rick got very sick and we had to leave around 11:00) He is feeling better... but it was a rough 4 days. Next year ~ this is going to be a family affair. I want my kids to experience this special event and be assured that lung cancer can be beat.

I was able to meet Bonnie for coffee on Friday morning before she set off to celebrate her husband's birthday. Besides lung cancer, we share many other things. From stories of our incredible children, to the way we talk and laugh, to our thoughts about life and love. Reason number 10,786 that I'll live for a very long time...I have a new friend that I need to get to know better. (Bonnie's assistant Shelia - who I really wanted get to know better - was busier than ever making the night a success - Which she did! . She has agreed to be my assistant too, as soon as I know what I need assistance with.)

About a month ago while we were planning our trip to San Francisco Rick suggested that we drive over to Reno/Tahoe area. Infact, he was keeping a little secret from me because when we arrived in town (with him still sick as ever) our friends Dave & Val & Bob & Dy were waiting for us. We had a great time visiting, sightseeing, and enjoying each other's company. I was very surprised. (I thought he might be up to something, but I Bob and Dy had something planned in Spokane so I was sure it wasn't them...joke's on me) We had a rough airplane flight home...but we made it - High winds at take off are not recommended for a smooth flight. Try to avoid them if at all possible.

I'm getting ready to get in bed because I've been battling a sore throat and cough all day. I can't let this get me down...I've got way too many things to do... Where do I begin?

Love you more than all the trolley cars in San Francisco.

Dream Big,
Doreen

P.S. I'll post more photos of the event as soon as I download them.

Update from San Francisco

My mom called earlier today and was having trouble writing a blog from the hotel room. She asked if I could write a brief message about the eventful evening that they had last night in San Francisco at the Lung Cancer Gala. She was thrilled to meet such wonderful people who were all fighting for lung cancer funding. Unfortunatly Dad got very sick with the flu and their evening was cut short. He was sick all night and was not feeling any better when I talked to Mom this morning. Check back on Monday night for my mom's detailed stories about their trip.


Enjoy your weekend-

Angie

Flood water rising....

Yesterday was a little longer than I'd anticipated... Our town became victim to another flood warning yesterday and our local nursing home was evacuated to higher ground. Mainly, the high school gym (my home away from home). The Red Cross came in with cots, food, and staff. So, being the old Stanwood girl that I am (and having sand bagged a time or two) I decided to stay back at the High School and help out where I could. I gathered Rick and Amy to come up and help the Red Cross. Our friends the McCune's came over as well (with dinner for us) and stayed all night too. They worked like animals putting cots together, assisting the command center and helping to get the patients off the buses - I was very proud of them all. What is it they say? It takes a village.... Boy don't I know it! (I made Angie stay home to heal her aching neck, shoulder, back area...It's hard sometimes to take care of our needs first but I'm very glad she did) As for the flooding, so far it is not as bad as they've anticipated and I haven't spotted Noah or the Ark. Perhaps we'll weather this storm without much damage.

School was cancelled today. It might be a blessing for me however, since I'm exhausted and I still need to get ready for San Francisco. I can't believe this event is nearly here. I'm really looking forward to meeting some amazing people who I believe will make a big difference in our lives. I'll tell you all about it when I return - I'm sure I'll have plenty of stories. Rick and I are sure to have a wonderful time making memories of "us".

Thanks again for all your generosity for a Breath Away From the Cure and my family. I'd better get off the computer now and get busy...

Dreaming big Dreams,
Dor

We're Back

We had a great time in Pullman. It's a wonderful feeling to know that your children love where they are and what they're doing with their lives. This goes for all our kids...not just the Pullman ones. The expectations that my children have set for themselves, far outweigh what I could have ever expected from them. I'm tired just thinking about all the things they have on their "plates".

Note to parents: Rick and I slept in Jake's queen size bed in his fraternity room this weekend. His room (private I might add) is the size of a studio apartment (though his bathroom is down the hall). It is stocked with a tv, dvd, surround sound, 2 closets, computer and desk, futon, overstuffed leather chair (that belongs to a "brother" but the leather couch, ottoman and chair wouldn't all fit in his room...so he asked Jake to "store"the chair for him ~ what a rough life) and a queen size bed (equipped with a feather topper). Apparently, this kind of atmosphere helps with learning, because he's doing very well. The reason I brought all of this up, is because when I crawled into his bed, it felt like heaven. My son, has 550 thread count sheets. For those of you who don't think the tread count matters...try it. I thought I loved my sheets (egyptian cotton) but NO...I needed 550 thread count... So, on the way home, we stopped and I bought some. After you buy yours, I expect a thank you note. Enough said.

I met a new friend (on the phone) named Liane, from California. She is another woman in my age bracket (YOUNG) with lung cancer. We really are a growing population. The great part is...we're all surviving. We're all beating the odds. We're all going to make a difference for the next generation.

I'd better go now. It's time for Desperate Housewives and I have to supervise Rick. (Don't tell his friends, but he watches it every Sunday night with me)

I love you more.
Dream Big,
Dor

Proud WSU Mom

I'm here in Pullman with Jake, Megan and her folks enjoying a pre-game party. We're getting ready to gear up for teriyaki burgers and salads (Megan is becoming a chef in her spare time). The weather is actually beautiful (I was afraid we would have freezing conditions or rain but it's cool and sunny). I promise to cover my mouth and stay warm.

I forgot to tell you about the Dr. appointment yesterday. Everything went as usual. We are going to watch my cough and headache concerns. I'm scheduled for a chest CT and a brain MRI at my next visit. If the cough worsens before then, they want me to come down early for the CT scan. I'm not worried...so you shouldn't be either. I do have lung cancer, so every so often I will probably develop a "cold" or even "pneumonia" but I will eventually feel better.

I'll write more later and perhaps even attach a photo or two.

Go Cougs,
Dor ~ Proud Coug Mom
(not to leave Amy and Angie out...I'm also a proud Eastern Washington Eagle Mom, and a proud University of Alaska,Fairbanks Nanook Mom)

Dr. Appointment Today in Seattle

I think the worst part about the visit to the Dr. is the traffic. So far, Dr. Eaton has always told me good news. I'm not feeling bad. I have my days... But who doesn't? I'm so lucky to have my husband and/or children and/or friends/family escort me to my appointments. I never feel alone. They all worry too much, so going to appointments with me and hearing the news first hand usually lightens their fear.

Rick says I'm coughing more, but I think that might have a lot to do with the weather and doing too much. I'll try to slow down, but sometimes I'm afraid that if I do, I might stop. And for those of you who know me...stopping isn't in my vocabulary.

It's Dad's weekend at Washington State University. Jake is looking forward to a visit from his dad (and mom-I get to tag along this time because he'll be gone from there by Mom's Weekend this year). We have not been over to Pullman at all this year. I know I have a lot going on, but a visit with Jake and Megan and their friends can only be good for the soul.

Angie has her debut in the community college ranks of officiating girls basketball tomorrow night. I'm sorry I will miss that, but knowing Angie, she will make us all proud. :) It's Amy's drill weekend so she'll be off doing her duty with the Air Force.... It's a good thing we're such a busy family. It gives us less time to think about "things we don't want to think about".

I'd better get off the computer now. I have an appointment to get ready for.... Wish me luck!

Love you more than all Dads (and moms) heading over the pass to Dad's weekend at WSU! If you're one of them...please drive safely.

Dream Big,
Dor

P.S. - Kelly & Morgan, thanks for my 198th day present. I love my bracelet and YOU!

I had a "MOMENT" today

While working in my office today I noticed that I had not changed the month on my calendar....So, I reached over, and RIPPED OFF OCTOBER - crumbled it UP, threw it in the garbage, then looked at yet another NEW MONTH. Who would have thought that could bring such joy? Try it....it's enlightening. It's motivating. It's necessary (otherwise you don't know what day it is)

Milestones. For some of us, they are nothing more than a reminder we're getting older. Or, that we've accomplished a goal. For me, they represent LIFE. I love gentle reminders that I've passed through another month, got another paycheck, due for my teeth to be cleaned... Those are all good signs! These represent...that I'm still alive, I'm still working (or at least getting paid for being there), and I still have teeth.

Remember how I told you how much I love autumn? Well I still do, I just don't remember it being so cold. Perhaps it's because we had such a beautiful summer. Any way you look at it...I still feel like a popscicle and it's not even winter.

Let me leave you with this thought...I've never seen a smiling face that wasn't beautiful.

Keep smiling & Dreaming Big,
Dor