11/23/15

Health, Christmas and Thankfulness


Hey everyone!  I'm sure everyone is super-busy this week getting everything you need for the quickly approaching "Turkey Day!"  This is probably the first year since I've been married (46 years), that I am not planning to cook the entire meal or making pies & other such Thanksgiving fare to contribute to another family member who might be hosting the meal.  It seems a bit strange but not in a bad way.  It is what it is, and it's only one Thanksgiving out of many.  The photo above was my brief tribute to the Pilgrims and their Indian friends as they came together for the first Thanksgiving.  This was on display for about a week after Halloween before I started packing the Fall decor away and having The Man bring in the Christmas crates.  I know that many of you are greatly opposed to Christmas decorating until after Thanksgiving, but I love getting our home decorated early, so we have plenty of time to enjoy it.



Health-wise, I am doing great.  I seem to be trying most all of the possible side-effects with this drug, Paclitaxel.  I have some neuropathy in my fingers, a rash that doesn't itch, dry nose and throat that causes nose bleeds and a cough, and "wacked-out" tastebuds and mouth sores, and fatigue.  I find that crocheting really helps with the neuropathy, long sleeves & pants cover the rash, moisture sprays help with the dry nose and throat, different mouth rinses help some with the confused tastebuds, and naps work the best for fatigue.  The side-effects that are most common that I have not "tried" -- nausea (not one little bit), complete loss of body hair.....eyebrows, eyelashes, & all other parts of the body--still just my little bald head!  So I feel very fortunate.  I'm on the home-stretch with only 5 more chemo infusions to go!  My last infusion will be December 28th, so I will celebrate the New Year with Chemo behind me, and look forward to getting the next fazes -- surgery and radiation completed, and being Cancer-Free!  I cannot possibly express how much I appreciate all of your sweet comments, encouragement and prayers.  I am so lucky to have such a wonderful group of cheerleaders.  I am so truly blessed to have a great hubby.  He has been with me every single step of the way.....he has started referring to me as his "Project!"  I am such a lucky person to have all of you in my life!

Now before I wrap this up, I thought I'd share a little "sneaky peek" of my Christmas decor.  I think I'll be finished in the next few days and will share more in the weeks ahead.

I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, however you are celebrating.  Take care, be safe and enjoy all those leftovers!

10 comments:

  1. Carol, you must be so thrilled that your are in the home stretch with the infusions...woo hoo!! Like I said before, best Christmas present ever! I think it's a great idea to put your Christmas decor early. Why not...like Auntie Mame said...sometimes, you need a little Christmas right this very minute! Happy Thanksgiving my lovely friend.

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  2. Carol
    I'm so glad you don't have some of the worst side effects, dealing with what you do have is quite enough! I'm praying for you and so glad you are getting near the end of your treatments.
    Enjoy your Thanksgiving!

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  3. Carol- I get it- know the feeling. Last year when I was so sick I did not do a single thing for Thanksgiving or Christmas...and guess what? It happened without me! lol Amazing. You will be all set to do it next year...just as I have resumed my "rightful" place this year. lol

    Just think- next year at this time this will all be behind you!! I know you just ccan't wait. xo Diana

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  4. You are always in my prayers! Can't wait until we can hang out in the spring!! Blessings, Cindy xoxo

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  5. Carol - You are looking great! So glad you are on the downhill side of the chemo. What a great way to start the new year out! Still praying for you and your family.

    Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving!

    Judy

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  6. Hi Carol, So glad for you to be in the home stretch and getting this behind you. It will be the best way to start the new year. Prayers for you and wishing you a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving. xo

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  7. You amaze me, and you truly are an inspiration! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! :) p.s. If you're bored, you can come decorate my house ;)

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  8. Carol, it is wonderful to hear that you are approaching the home stretch in your treatments! Your up beat attitude is just like a breath of fresh air...you are a champion of making the best out of a bad situation! This will be my first year in a long time that I will not be cooking either...of course my reasons are different than yours but I think I will miss it a bit. Hey, you know what? You can decorate your house for Christmas as early as you want and leave it up as LONG as you want!! Enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving with your loved ones, Carol!

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  9. I'm so ready to put the Christmas stuff out! I'm with you - I want to be able to enjoy it longer. Besides, I think Jesus' birthday is more important than pilgrims! I know there are people that think I'm awful but I'm honest! I'm so happy to hear how good you're doing. Side effects aren't fun but it sounds like you're managing them. I know you're so excited to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Wishing you & the man & the rest of your family a fabulous holiday season! Sending hugs & prayers!

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  10. So happy you're almost finished! I know you'll be celebrating in the new year! And there's absolutely nothing wrong with decorating for Christmas early. I say do whatever makes you happy! Hope you had a lovely Thanksgiving!

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I truly love to hear from you and try to respond to each and everyone. If you have "no reply blogger," I will respond in my comments section and then visit your blog as soon as I can.

Make this a great day!
Carol