Warning, this is a Long Winded Update.

[Elly Rose Tech Support]

July 24, 2012

Yesterday I had my third chemo session, it is an all-day event. The doctor added one more med to my cocktail and I now have the IV going three and half hours. I am now one third of the way through my treatment.

My blood pressure continues to surprise the staff at the Cancer center. Yesterday it was 105/70. My numbers are good. I haven’t suffered many side effects from the chemo except for fatigue during the week of chemo. I can swim and walk. Right now I chose swimming because of the heat we are enduring here in the Midwest. I also have started exercising again and have almost returned to the level of squats that I was doing before the surgeries and the discovery of cancer.

I have to say that this has been an amazing journey. I didn’t want to be the center of attention but opening up to share my story has brought me many surprises. First was the chip-in here on the site. I have been able to pay two months’ rent. My landlord was very surprised when she received those rent checks. We asked her about late fees for the months we were late and she waived those fees. We are receiving help with our food and my church is helping with our monthly utilities. This has been a humbling and glorious journey. I start every day remembering Life is a Celebration.

I never stopped giving. There have been many days that my only gifts were smiles and assurances. But I managed to help in other ways, like turning my laundry room over to a friend once a week so she doesn’t have to drag her laundry to the Laundromat at her apartment. I take Kathy often, and offer rides and give Reiki.

Thank you to all of you who have supported me here. Your love and prayers buoy me every day. Your financial help has given us an amazing freedom from worry; I really didn’t want to move right now.

I turned sixty three. It was a meaningful and wonderful birthday filled with love and joy. I have a new sense of life and that makes every day shine.

July 26, 2012

My daughter, Trina and 3 grandkids and one great-granddaughter came today to help me get ready for TOMORROW. We had a great time visiting. My grandsons spent the night watching old movies like Flight of the Navigator and Goonies. They used to watch these years ago and they love watching them when they come to visit.

They were teasing me about being short. Now I keep telling them that is a secret, but they continue to share the news. When they were young I would remind them I could kick their bottom if they weren’t good. When I was feeling so bad I told them if they would hold my hand I could still kick them. Imagine the surprise on my number one grandson's face when I managed to swing my leg up all the way to kick him, not hard of course. I think that was the best gift I could give him, Grandma getting better.

I turned over the TV to the boys and let them pick the movies. Made them special cookies.

July 27, 2012

My daughter drove her car and we drove our car to the airport to pick up my son the teacher and his family. I got to meet his almost one year old for the first time. Then I took time to hug each of the other grandkids and my son and his wife. Three rode with us and three rode with Trina.

We stopped at Wendy’s to let them get a drink and treat after their long trip. Then we stopped at a church history site. The kids loved the site and everyone enjoyed learning and experiencing history.

After we got home we shuttle all 19 of us to the restaurant for dinner. We only had two cars so it was interesting. I paid for Sandy and Kathy’s dinner. Everyone else went Dutch treat. What a fun chaotic dinner. The cousins were getting to know each other and the adults were all trying to talk at the same time. My grandson that lives in Warrensburg was able to join us late so we had three cars to shuttle everyone home.

Trina and her group stayed at Tom’s and Sandy’s freeing up the space for the visiting family. After everyone was settled for the night I gave out the Christmas presents I hadn’t mailed overseas. The kids were thrilled. Then I gave my red headed granddaughter a music box for her birthday, the eight year old I gave a lego set that makes a helicopter or a plane, and the six year old I gave a concentration game with pictures of Cars the Movie. I made a little blanket for the baby. He turns one very soon.

Today I gave rides, treated for dinner, shared history, and finally gave the visiting family the rest of their Christmas present and birthday presents. I also shared hugs and kisses. It was a very good day.

July 28, 2012

What do you do with 19 people on a Saturday morning? You send them on a hike to the caves. They loved it. We shuttled again but the park is only a mile away and I didn’t go so it was a piece of cake.

While they were gone I boiled the potatoes and eggs for a potato salad. Paul makes the dressing and even though he says it isn’t secret, he won’t share the recipe. It is the very best dressing on the potato salad, ever.

My son decided to rent a car to save on the shuttling. Paul drove him to a nearby town to pick up the rental. It only held 5 so whenever we went we got Grandkids. It was great. We went to a nearby park for a BBQ. Everyone brought sometime so there was plenty to eat and lots of leftover. My grandson from Warrensburg brought his new girlfriend and kids to meet me. All the kids played on the play equipment while the adults kept a vigilant eye on them and talked.

My grandsons really about drove me a little nutty. They kept hovering. They wanted to help me up, move my chair to the shade. Hold my hand while I sat down. Get my food so that I didn’t have to. But when they tried to escort me across the park to the car I told them thank you for all of the help, but I can still kick your bottom without holding your hand, I can walk across the grass. They all laughed and just walked by my side.

They came to the house to finish their visit and help clean. Today I received much more than I gave. I gave lots of hugs, kisses and advice.

July 29, 2012

I love Sundays. I always come home from church in a peaceful mood. This Sunday I had quite a few of my family with me. What a joy. After church my eight year old grandson was baptized. He chose to wait until we could see this event. Both Paul and I spoke. I tried not to cry, and I almost made it, but I was just happy. The part of the family that didn’t make church all came to the baptism, plus a few of my friends.

At home we all had a great luncheon and desert. Soon it was time for Trina to leave. I let them go after pictures were taken. We are a very noisy group. Everyone went to their own homes and we spent more time visiting with our out of town guests.

I spoke at my grandson’s baptism at his request.

July 30, 2012

I had to have blood work done first thing in the morning. I have to check into the outpatient surgery section to have my blood work taken from my port. I love my port, no more bruises from needles. They were very busy so it took a little while.

When we got home Tom had brought Kathy to the house with her suitcase. We were all packed and ready to leave. Tim is taking us to Branson for 3 nights and four days. Kathy and the red headed granddaughter started off in our car. We stopped half way there and bought treats for the trip. At Branson we shopped and ate at Subway while waiting for the cabin to become available.

Tim rented a very nice cabin with two master rooms and a loft with bunk beds. Tim took all of the kids, that would be five including Kathy swimming while Tim’s wife, Michelle, Paul and I went to the store for items we forgot to bring in the cooler.

Tim managed the kids well in the pool but he was very tired when we walked down to check on them when we returned. We went to bed kind of early in anticipation for the next day.

We included Kathy in this special trip. I spent time with each grandchild one on one.

July 31,2012

We went to Silver Dollar City for the day. I had a coupon that saved Tim over $100 on entry fees. I had made arrangements to leave when I was tired but first we had a few stops to make in the park first . We rode a boat ride with water cannons to aim at the passing targets as they made their way to ride the boat. We could soak them. They also had water cannons and we were their targets. I was very wet when we got off the boat. Then we rode the Merry Go Round and the train. I was very hot and tired by now so Kathy, Paul and I left. We have season tickets so we will be back on a cooler day.

We went to have lunch at our favorite BBQ restaurant. We tried to call a friend to go visit but she was out of the house, so we took Kathy to a cave. She got to explore their cave for students and her favorite place was the gift shop. She has a collection of rocks. She picked out several stones that she loved. We told her that we couldn’t get them right now, but the next time down we would pick them up. Then Paul took her to look at something else and I bought the stones and a few more and a small treasure chest to carry them in. I think we found the perfect gift for her birthday. Then we went back to the room and all three of us took a nap.

When Tim and his family were ready to come home hours later we drove to help them shuttle grandkids home. It was time to enjoy the wonderful accommodations and rest.

My main gift was to me today to let myself end the day early when I got tired.

August 1, 2012

I know this is sounding like a travel log, so I will just hit the highlight of the day today. We went to Krispy Kreme. The kids have wanted to do this since they hit the states. The baby had his first donut and liked it almost as much as Kathy liked hers.

We went to see our friends in their show. This was our gift to Tim, but the friend’s gift to us was half price tickets. The kids loved the show as well as the adults. We introduced our family to our friends and got lots of pictures.

Tim took us out to eat after the show. I missed a rain shower while we were in the restaurant. I am ready to dance in the rain.

Tim and Michelle took some of the kids for a walk but one of their boys and Kathy stayed with us. They are the same age and they play well together when it is just the two of them. Everyone was sad that the time had gone by so fast. Tonight was the last night.

I treated the family to a show; I let the two 5 year olds stay in and play.

August 2, 2012

Tim and Michelle took the kids for one more swim in the pool. My grandchildren are water babies. Then we sadly checked out of our cabin and started to go home the long way.

We took the family on a tour around town. We stopped at the visitors’ center and let the kids explore. Then we went to the lake and let them throw rocks. Then we stopped for lunch and headed home. We had the two five year olds in the car with me. They had fun using their imaginations telling wild tall tales and coloring together.

We were tired when we got home. We took Kathy home. I am told she went to bed very early. I sat and cuddled with the baby and the five year old was right by my side the rest of the evening. I told stories and listened to the older kids adventures. I kept the kids entertained while the parents packed to leave in the morning.

August 3, 2012

I was sad that this day had come so quickly. Tim and Michelle had to leave today to be able to attend a wedding tomorrow. My red headed granddaughter noticed that she is taller than I am. We had to take pictures of this milestone for her. Tim told me that he would probably be back in three years. That is when the grandkids objected. They want to be here for Christmas and next summer. I want them here too but I imagine it will be longer before I get to see them again except on Skype.

Then sadly Paul drove part of the kids to the airport. I stayed home to rest. My house is very quiet now, but it was a wonderful visit.

Kathy had a visit with her mother today. Even though it is only a two hour visit it always upsets her. I put Kathy in a bubble of protection before the visit.

I spent the day catching up with friends, sending Reiki and my self give, resting.

August 4, 2012

Today was a resting day. I checked in on a few friends, sent Reiki and just rested.

August 5, 2012

Today was Sunday. I went even though I was still fatigued. A friend of mine got ill after the worship service so Paul and I drove her home and then I had Paul drop me off to rest and he returned for his meetings.

Kathy called and asked if we could come over and give her a night time hug. We loaded up their vacuum that we had borrowed and hurried on over. Kathy was very happy to see us. She had lots of things we needed to see. She showed us her piggy bank and took out all of her coins. She asked if she had enough money to buy the stones when we went back to Branson. Yep, I know we got her the right birthday present.

Tom was a bit distraught. Yesterday one of the cooks where he works had an asthma attack and died during his shift at work Saturday night. The cook was only 40. We let him talk about it and his worries. He turns 40 this year and all of a sudden he realizes that life is fragile.

A ride home for a friend, a hug for Kathy, counsel for Tom and a long phone call with a friend.

August 6, 2012

I had a very good time at the Cancer Center today. The nurses were wonderful as usual even though they were stretched to the limit on this very busy day. I met and made new friends, and talked to old friends.

A Lady came in waiting for her turn for blood work and said her neuropathy in her hands and feet was really bad. I asked her if she ever used sound therapy. In the middle of chemo I treated her hands and feet with the tuning fork that I just happened to still have in my bag. Paul gave her Reiki while I worked on her hands. Then I taught her a grounding exercise. We stood up and did the exercise in the middle of the room. The lady had feeling in her hands that had been numb for a long time..

The nurses were intrigued and asked many question. Even Sara, the appointment clerk came to watch. It certainly made the time go faster.

As I said today was extremely busy and my nurse in particular had many challenges with some of her patients. They were running behind schedule and she kept patient and cheerful with everyone. I happen to have a gift card and I wrote a note saying that she was wonderful. I tried to put it on her cart without her noticing, but she watches that cart carefully. When she saw the note she thanked me and gave me a hug.

Tonight we had a frantic knock on the door. A young man out of breath and clearly distressed wanted to use our phone to call the police. We walked out on the porch and gave him the phone. Some one had chased him and his girlfriend across a yard kitty corner from us. The ran to safety but he wanted it reported to the police. My property manager actually saw it happen so he came over to find out what happened. The police showed up and that is all we know.

We came home to rest. I spent time talking to a friend, I sent Reiki, I gave sound therapy and I left a thank you note for my nurse.and lent my phone out to a stranger.

This saying is hanging on the wall at the Center. I am sharing it with you here.
❤♫❤♫❤.•*¨`*•..¸♥☼♥ ¸.•*¨`*•.♫❤♫❤♫❤.♫❤♫❤♫❤.
╔═════════ ¸⁀°.*.♥.✿´´¯`♥¸⁀°.*.♥.✿═════════╗
ೋ ❤❤❤What Cancer Cannot Do
❤♫❤♫❤ Cancer is so limited........,,,,,…❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot cripple Love……….❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot shatter Hope……….❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot corrode Faith………❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot destroy Peace……...❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot kill Friendship……..❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot suppress Memories..❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot silence Courage……❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot invade the Soul…….❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot steal eternal Life…...❤♫❤♫❤
❤♫❤♫❤ It cannot conquer the Spirit….❤♫❤♫❤
•.¸⁀°.*.♥.✿´´¯`♥ Author Unknown⁀°♡ •.¸⁀°.*.♥.✿´´¯`♥
╚═════════ ¸⁀°.*.♥.✿´´¯`♥¸⁀°.*.♥.✿═════════╝
❤♫❤♫❤.•*¨`*•..¸♥☼♥ ¸.•*¨`*•.♫❤♫❤♫❤.♫❤♫❤♫❤.
❤♫❤♫ ❤.•*¨`*•..¸♥☼♥ ¸.•*¨`*•.♫❤♫❤♫❤♫❤♫❤♫❤.

The Universe smiles as it reminds me “And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it.” Roald Dahl

[Mare]

You are truly blessed to have such a loving family.  God Bless You.  XOXO

[Rita Lewis]

Hi EllyRosr,

it sounds like you have a fabulous family. What a blessing they must be to you. And you my courageous friend sound fantastic. I think you may have more energy than me! God bless & protect you dear one, & may you continue your battle with a warrior's strength!

Love & Peace & Abundant Blessings to you & your family.

xoxoxo

[Dawn wwt]

you have discovered the magic of being fully present in your life, i think. what a gift that is! i'm so glad your overseas son and his family got to come visit! you are surrounded by loving family and friends, what a blessing that is. and we all love you too :o)  Hugs, Dawn

[IslandGirl]

You are such an inspiration, Elly Rose! I am in awe.

[Aunty Nean]

You are an amazing woman of great strength, character and love. It has been a joy to share this epic tale of family, food, friendship and fellowship. Thank you Elly Rose. You are truly a gift to us and to all.

[Valerie (wwt)]

As I sit with closed eyes in the silence after reading your post, I feel sweet joy and contentment. I am reminded of the wisdom that an old sage passed on to me years ago. "Life is made of three parts: joy, pain, and ordinary." Often times we discover joy within life's painful times, and this you have done, my friend. Your gifts of simple kindness in the midst of the whirlwind going on in your life right now, has been a blessing to others. I can imagine your positive energy being spread throughout the universe. Life is good because of people like you, Miss Elly. I am proud to call you my friend.  Blessings be yours today.

[Deb~ Community Manager]

You are the best! I love to read your posts. I learn so much and how to become a better person so I can help others. I pray for you daily and wish I could hug you in person. Much love, appreciation and respect to you too. xoxo Bless you, Elly Rose~ xoxo

[Lois55 wwt]

Your post was awesome, just like you, Elly Rose. The way you face cancer with grace and dignity is beyond awesome! And what a blessing that  you have such a loving family to surround you with all the love you can handle....I would have loved to see that kick,hehe! Take care, Elly Rose, you continue to  be my Hero!

[Michele wwt]

You are a truly amazing angel, Elly Rose! I am blessed to learn much from you. Thank you for taking the time to write such a beautiful post. Take care and know that you are in my prayers everyday. Xoxo