Aftermath Updates (Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun)

Hi all!

I will do like I did last time and just add updates to this post, so watch the title!

Tuesday - had a pretty good day....went to get my Nuelasta shot and found out that's the one stick I have to get. I can't get it through the PICC line, pooh. Todd and I ran a couple of errands, including Walmart where I buzzed around in the cart. Todd wanted one too, but I wouldn't let him.

That little trip did me in, so it was recliner time as soon as I got here. Todd just fixed me some potato soup and it tastes pretty good. Here's hoping for a good tomorrow....

Wednesday - not too bad today. Just vegged all day. So thankful for meds that work! They've cut my Nuelasta shot in half so the bone pain is very minimal. Also gave me Flexiril for muscle pain that seems to help alot. Planning to ring in the new year from my recliner....

Thursday - HAPPY NEW YEAR! Todd and I toasted 2009 with some Sprite while Zachary was with the Youth ringing in the new year. This is the first year we were not with him....time passes too fast. Today was a steamroller day for me, but I was able to eat a little bit of steak that Todd grilled. Other than that, my day was spent in the recliner. Here's hoping for a better day tomorrow.....

Friday - Zachary woke up hurling this morning and I was still puny, so Todd was the nursemaid for the day. Fortunately Z was feeling better about noon. I had a little more appetite today, but NO energy. I had a wierd craving for a mustard cheeseburger, so Todd got me one at our new Whataburger. It didn't taste exactly right, but it was good. I was a little afraid it would make me sick, but it didn't. So hopefully Z didn't have a virus and I will be feeling better tomorrow!

Saturday - had an okay day today, had a little more energy, but still pretty wiped out. Todd grilled some chicken and I was able to eat a real meal! progress!

Sunday - haven't been sleeping well lately and didn't last night, so I didn't get to go to church today. RATS Some of the side effects of the chemo hang on and cause problems for a few days, so I'm dealing with that. I do have more energy and appetite so things are looking up!

On a brighter note.....did you notice the new look? I was reading some of my friends blogs, and their backgrounds were so cute....so I decided to spruce mine up a little. Whatcha think?

DING! DING! Round 4!

Round 4 is done! Norma 4 Cancer 0 Two more to go!


Here's my look for #4, blue jean and black:



Today started VERY early for me. Had an appointment with the Radiation Oncologist at 7:45!! No, I didn't set that appointment myself or it would've been more like 11:45! But...the visit went well, although we have a plethora of information to think about and pray over. This is something Todd and I will discuss and give our answer sometime next month. We appreciate your prayers over this decision.

The doctor spent a good bit of time with us, and answered all of our questions. This also put us right up against the chemo time, so instead of hitting Starbucks, we went across the hall to the big green recliners. I have to say, I was liking my PICC line today!! No sticks! woo hoo! Everything went well and I was craving Chinese food afterwards. Since I started my day really early, I decided it was recliner time.

So, here I sit and now a nap sounds really good! I will send updates this week as I can....meanwhile, enjoy these last few days of 2008 and think about the blessings of our Lord that are so plentiful!
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The blessings of the LORD maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22

Christmas Update

Please note that it is Friday when I am typing this, but it won't be posted until Saturday because all the pictures are on the desktop computer and I won't be peeling myself out of this recliner until then!

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ONLY 364 shopping days 'til Christmas! (ducking and running for cover)

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I'm sitting here in my recliner, resting after packing up all the decorations except for the tree. Although I don't have a lot of decorations, it still was too daunting a task for me to do it all today. So I could do the tree or everything else...I chose everything else.

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However, I am quite proud of myself! I did something I've needed to do for several years - weed out some of the old, cheap stuff I've had for years. I threw away a bunch of stuff and have two boxes of stuff to take to Goodwill! woo hoo! I would say I would do it every year, but by the time I got all the decorations down and ready to put in boxes, I was tired and ready to be done. So I guess doing this over 2 days was a great idea!

We had a wonderful Christmas! Since we didn't get to go to Todd's family in NC this year, we had Cyber-Christmas with his brothers and sisters on Christmas Eve. Then Christmas Day, Chris took his laptop to Grandma's house and we got to see Ronnie and Carolyn, and all the aunts and uncles and cousins. It was wonderful!

This is us talking to Bradley:

Since this was the "off" year, just us Tyler family got together. Daddy, Odessa, Mike, Ruth, Carissa, Taylor and Emily came over for Christmas dinner. Todd got us a free Greenberg turkey by surviving a torturous procedure to give blood. Everyone brought something, so it was pretty much stress free cooking. (Til we realized we didn't think about gravy....Odessa to the rescue!!!)


Now back to that Greenberg turkey.....folks, if you've never had one, you are missing out! It's even made Oprah's Favorite Things! Yep, smoked right here in Tyler! http://www.gobblegobble.com/ It's already cooked when you get it. YUM!


It was warm outside (good ol Texas weather!) so the girls were able to play outside, and Sydney took Taylor for a walk. We just enjoyed the day and everyone's company, and a good time was had by all. Stress-free was the word of the day. We didn't eat until 4 but oh well. By the time I sat down and checked my phone, I had 17 "Merry Christmas" texts! WOW! Thank you all so much for thinking of me!


The chemo seems to have settled in and I fatigue really quickly now. I hate it and don't have time for it, but have learned to make the best of it. I know what happens if I overdo it, and I don't wanna do that again. So I want to thank Ruth, Odessa and Carissa who made it so much easier in the kitchen. And I can't forget my precious husband who has some mad kitchen cleaning skills! No kidding - ask my family!


Mike and Ruth stayed over and we played "Would You Rather...?" Hands down, Todd got the prize for the grossest invented question. Just don't even ask!


Todd really made this Christmas special for me. For my birthday he bought me a webcam and the Willow Tree Nativity. I was totally shocked at the Nativity!



I love the WT Nativity because Mary is actually holding the baby Jesus. I have always had a problem with the ones of everyone staring down at baby in the manger. Yes, I know the Bible says "...and laid Him in a manger." But Mary was a new mother, and I know if I had just given birth to God in flesh as my firstborn, I wouldn't let him lie in that hay very long! LOL So, I had told Todd I wanted one someday, but I had no clue it would be this year! He even built me a creche for it. To buy one is very expensive, and I like the one he made me even better so it is extra special!


Then he got me a digital frame that plays videos and even music! My dad just laughed when I asked him if he ever thought in his 81 years he would see a picture frame with a remote. LOL



This is a perfect thing for me because I am terrible about printing pictures and even worse about getting them in albums or frames! So now I can download 1000 pictures into my ONE frame!


Todd and Zachary also got me my first Wii game - "Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?" The answer.....not yet. Todd won a million with the help of Zachary who knew that inert gases were also known as "noble gases". We were hoping a million dollar check would shoot out of the slot...but no luck.


Well, Monday I have an appointment with the radiation oncologist where we will discuss my radiation options. I ask for your prayers that I will have peace about the decision I make. I won't make it for awhile, but I want to make sure I'm making the right one.


Then I head to the green recliner to get chemo. The good thing is NO MORE STICKS since I got my PICC line put in last Monday. The bad thing is there are two little tubes with ports on the end that hang about 3 inches from my right arm, and it's all taped down with tape that is driving me crazy. I have this top-of-a-tubesock looking thing to keep it from snagging on everything, but folks, basically this thing is a pain in the.......arm.


Since Todd and Zachary will be home next week, they get to be my angels. (Hmmm.....all you other angels out there might want to be on standby! hee hee) I'm really praying for a shorter and easier time this round.


Many of you have asked how I'm "really" doing - I haven't totally gotten over the cough although it's much better. My RBCs and iron are still right under the limit, but all other counts are fine. Appetite has been fine and I haven't gained any weight, for which I'm very thankful. I haven't lost any either though. My BP is fine, but one concern is my elevated heartrate.


The main lingering side effect is fatigue and I've heard it takes awhile to work through that even when the chemo is done. I can't multi-task like I used to because I forget what I'm doing.....some of the results have been quite comical!!


Regarding my hair, I've gotten so used to not having hair and not wearing a hat or hair at home that I forget when I am in Kojak mode. I still have some eyebrows and eyelashes, and I'm very happy about that! While "bald" is not something I wanted to ever be, there are several advantages to not having hair when you're going through chemo. I never thought I would feel this okay about being bald, but I've found that my perspectives on a lot of things have changed.


Since I will probably be ringing in 2009 with ginger ale and Zofran....here's my New Year's message:


A new year is about to begin and we tend to look at it as a time for a fresh start. Well, I don't know about you, but I tend to need more chances to start over than once every 365 days. My Bible says His mercies are new EVERY MORNING! So if you find your backside in the dust again....get up, brush yourself off, and start again. You are only a failure when you quit trying.


Hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and the last few days of 2008 are great!

It is through the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22 & 23

Annual Lawson Christmas Letter

For some of you, this may be the first time you've been subjected to the "Annual Lawson Christmas Letter". I've decided to include it on here this year, plus a picture! Those who received this by email didn't get the pic, because it took too long to download. So....if you need a new dartboard background...you can print it out.

Here we are bringing another year to a close….and what a year it has been! Every year, before I start typing the Annual Lawson Christmas Letter (ALCL), I read the one from the year before to see what I need to update you on. Fasten your seat belt!

Of course, I need to start by saying how immeasurably blessed we are! God has proved Himself faithful, and we are blessed with you precious family and friends.

You may remember from the 07 ALCL that we did not live in the district where we wanted Zachary to attend high school. Both high schools had the IB Programme, but we wanted him to attend the other one. So we put our house up for sale in January. We got a contract on it and put a contract on our new house set to close in April.

One week before we closed, we found out the school where we lived closed its IB Programme, so all IB students would be attending the school in the district we were moving to. In short, we would not have had to move. Well, it was too late then! Plus, we love our house! So we give God the credit for working it out.

In February, Zachary turned 14, so our ages were 41 and 14. Don’t think that will happen again in our lives!

In May, I went on a Cozumel cruise with 3 girlfriends. We had a blast! Also around this time, Todd accepted the counselor’s position at Clarkston Elementary here in Tyler. This was a HUGE blessing! Much closer to home and back in TISD!

August was gearing up to be a doozie. Zachary was starting high school, the IB Programme and marching band; and Todd was beginning a job at a new school. August 6th marks a day that threw our family into the greatest trial of our life so far. I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Needless to say, my world came to a screeching halt.

I had surgery on Oct 2nd, and have finished 3 of my 6 chemo treatments. For more details, read previous posts. =o)

In all, it has been a wild year, but God has been our Comforter through it all. There are still many issues that I must face in the future, some that seem like mountains. There are days I wonder if the sun will shine again, but I know Who holds tomorrow. I have a tight grip on His hand!

We trust 2009 is a blessed year for you and your family!

Todd, Norma and Zachary

Wednesday Update

This has been a pretty good week! Monday was my birthday....or as I like to call it the "anniversary of my 29th birthday". No, I'm not telling you which one!

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I pretty much just vegged at the house all day, then we all went to my favorite restaurant, Posado's. They brought me a HUGE dish of ice cream! As you can see, I had help with it. If you look close, you will see chocolate syrup on Emily's finger and chin! LOL

Yesterday I finally was able to keep my PT appointment. I was afraid I had gone backwards after 2 weeks, but she said I had improved! woo hoo!

Next Monday I go get the PICC line put in. Then I plan to just focus on being with my family and the Reason for the season. He came to give us life, and not just life...but life more abundantly! We only have one life to love (yes, I mean love), so it's up to us what we do with it. I plan to squeeze as much joy and fun out of mine that I can!

Have a blessed week!

NOT Dreaming of a Pink Ribbon Christmas

A Special Message from Todd

Dear Friends and Family,

First off I want to say how much we appreciate every kind word, gesture, and gift that you have given to Norma and our family throughout this very difficult and trying ordeal. And I want to encourage you to keep them coming! Especially things I can eat and cards that make us laugh! But since Christmas time is here and there may be some who want to give Norma a gift, there is one issue I want to clarify for everyone who reads this. And that is the Pink Ribbon.

It might be hard to understand what I am about to say about the Pink Ribbon if you have only viewed one facet of it. On one side, to those who are not in the middle of battling cancer, the Pink Ribbon is a symbol to raise awareness of the need for constant vigilence against breast cancer, and to raise money for research to one day find a cure. All very commendable!

But when you find yourself on this side, the individual and family going through the trial of a lifetime, surgery, pain, sickness, disruption of your life and altered future, Pink Ribbons and gifts they are attached to become an in-your-face reminder of the tragic disease that has attacked your body and brought chaos to your life. It also is a reminder that a cure was not found in time for you. So from where Norma is today, Pink Ribbons are not at all comforting or encouraging.

So please understand that we are not being unappreciative of anything you have done or given. She knows that every kind gesture towards her and our family was done in the purest of motives. While this didn't bother us as bad at first, the longer we're on this journey, the harder it gets. We just want you to see this from Norma's perspective and if you choose to share gifts, please avoid Pink Ribbon themed items. Instead make it something that she likes or represents family, faith, peace - the things that are enduring and important. Not cancer.

She doesn't want anyone's feelings to be hurt and it is hard for her to say anything, so I will. But I have confidence that you all will understand.

LIFE - it's not just a magazine

It's almost Friday! So I thought I better update...

Whatever got ahold of me doesn't wanna let go, so I've spent most of the week in my recliner with a box of Kleenex very close. The worst part is the coughing! I just can't stop. Even the Rx med isn't working! With very little sleep this week, I look like a raccoon, sound like a seal and feel like a slug.

All appointments were rescheduled to next week....but NOT Monday. Sorry. NO ONE is gonna poke me with a needle or try to increase my range of motion on the anniversary of my 29th birthday! I haven't decided what I'm gonna do, but if all I do is sit in my house then I'm good.

I did find out today that I will have to have a PICC line put in my arm on the 22nd. My veins just aren't cooperating. Although I didn't want this to happen, I'm glad I at least got halfway through the treatments without it. And....I won't have to be stuck anymore.

On a brighter note.....Baby, it's cold outside!!! I hope it stays cold through Christmas. Nothing like opening presents in front of the fire.....with the a/c on! We have done that!

My computer sits close by the Christmas tree. I was just looking at several ornaments that represent different times in my/our life. One from when I was young, one when it was just me and Todd, one when Zachary was born, when we bought our 1st house ....and so on. They don't represent my whole life, just a part of it.

This is why I chose the "PEACE" ornament to represent 2008 - one of the hardest years of my life. Some might think I would choose a pink ribbon - NO. Pink ribbons represent a disease that I am fighting right now - not who I am. I would rather remember this journey with a symbol of the peace God gave me early on that has carried me this far.

Some day this will all be in my rear view mirror! Can't happen fast enough! It will be so nice when this doesn't consume so much of my time and mind. I want to be doing things with my family, interpreting at church and work, sitting in my recliner for a few minutes at night... not all day and night.

Folks, we just never know when the "normal" of our life is gonna change. It is so important that we make every day count. Our life can change in a moment! We must have the right perspective - do the things that count for eternity. If we invest our life in things, our investment dies with us. But if we invest in relationships, our investment will live forever in the lives of others.

From "Tuck Everlasting"
"Don't fear death, fear the unlived life." - Angus Tuck
"You don't have to live forever.....just LIVE"

RATS!

Had a very rough day today. I mentioned the allergy/sinus mess...well, Sunday night I took a nighttime med to deal with it and help me sleep. Ha. Didn't happen. I felt okay Monday and even felt like going to the Leadership Party...you saw the pic. =o)

Monday night I thought I would try a different med. Well, at last count my heartrate was 130 bpm which continued through the night and left me tossing and turning in my recliner.

So with two sleepless nights behind me, it looks like my whatever-I-have is trying to settle in my chest and give me bronchitis or something I hope isn't contagious. When I told the doctor my fever was 99.8...they immediately put me on an antibiotic and told me to NOT take anymore nighttime OTC meds! Nooooo problem!

So basically I have sat in this recliner ALL DAY LONG!! My laptop has been my connection to the outside world. I have no voice and barely the strength to talk anyway. Just a lovely day.

I missed Rynda's goodbye party today, and looks like tomorrow I'll miss PT and the December birthday party with TJC's president, too. RATS RATS RATS

Well, maybe this means I'll be well for my birthday and Christmas. I do NOT want to spend either one in this chair!!

This calls for chocolate. Got some brownies in the kitchen.....bbl.

Yams, Sunrise and an Elf

Happy Monday!

I hope you all survived the first week of December and all your shopping is done! I survived and my shopping is.... not done, although close. Santa's pretty skinny this year, so that makes it a little easier.

Lessee...when I left you last it was Saturday night. I didn't make it to church Sunday morning. I'm dealing with sinus/allergy issues along with all this other chemo mess. After several meds, a hot shower and a nap...and plenty of time to get ready.... I made it to the church Christmas banquet. I was still weak, plus I haven't worn heels in probably a month, and believe me, I was praying I didn't spill my plate on the way back from the buffet! All you folks around me probably were hoping I didn't trip over that big black cord and spill yams on your new frou-frou!

Aaron Wilburn was our entertainment and he is just great!! I needed those laughs! I was able to interpret some....I just hope it made sense! The one part I couldn't terp was when he was talking about losing his voice for 2 years and feeling like God was quiet. Boy do I know that feeling! He said that his mom used to say, "Go check on those kids, they are too quiet, they must be up to something!" and when he compared that to God....He's quiet, He must be up to something....I lost it. I get emotionally fragile at times anyway, and he found the chink in my armor! Then he sang "Four Days Late". It's about when Lazurus died and Jesus was 'four days late'....but right on time. It really spoke to my heart. I told him how much he ministered to me....and he gave me a CD with that song on it! He is really an incredible person!

I didn't get a picture with Aaron...what's wrong with me? But I did get one with Santa!

Here's me with my two main men!


Tonight was our Church Leadership Party. Here's how I looked:

Hat: $2 at Walmart last year, Wig: on loan from clown sister, Pastor's face when he saw me: PRICELESS!!

I will close with pictures of God's handiwork with this morning's sky:

But I will sing of Thy power, yea, I will sing aloud of Thy mercy in the morning; for Thou hast been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble. Unto Thee, O my Strength, will I sing; for God is my defense, and the God of my mercy. Psalm 59:16 & 17

Aftermath Updates (Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat)

Hello All!

Instead of posting several times, I will post here and update:

*Wednesday - Many of my angels are out of pocket this week, so I drove myself to get my Nuelasta shot. I felt much better than I did the last "2nd day" so it wasn't that big of a deal. I was even able to run a few errands, although I was pretty tired by the time I got home. Had to get new tags for my car....the letters are my initials - NSL - now what are the odds of that?

The doctor reduced my dosage of the Nuelasta since my white blood count was high (good) and the incident of severe nerve pain I had last time (bad). Seems to have been a great idea, because I have had less bone pain this time!

*Thursday - Rachel was my angel for today and brought me a Willow Tree Angel of Hope. So very sweet! HOPE - what a beautiful word!

Appetite has been ok, but I wasn't too happy when my grilled cheese tasted bad. I love grilled cheese and I just barely could choke it down. Oh well, at least it's all going down and not up! I hope and pray that the anti-puke pills continue their magic three more rounds! One of them is Zofran....I call it ZoFriend! =o)

So far, this has been the best aftermath. Instead of feeling like I've been hit by a train then a steamroller....it's more like a moped this time. My RBC and HGB counts have risen, they were still below the limit, but just barely. This is really good news because it means my body will store the iron if I get it in there, and I won't have to have iron shots.

*Friday - didn't feel so hot today. Mainly just lay in my recliner and snoozed. Hoping for a brighter tomorrow....

*Saturday - felt a tad better today, but just vegged all day. Appetite was better this evening and muscle/bone pain was diminished. In all, it was still better than last time! Not much, but I'll take all the 'better' I can get! Hopefully I will feel like going to church tomorrow, and to the church Christmas banquet tomorrow evening!

"Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming...." - Dory, Finding Nemo

Ding! Ding! Round 3!

Round 3 is done! Cancer 0 Norma 3! HALF-TIME SHOW!!!!

Here was my look for #3....brown and pink:


Today was a little rougher. First stick was fine for one med, but the 2nd med (the red one I get popsicles with) is really dangerous and the vein must be good and not blow because it can damage the skin in that area. So, they stuck my wrist where they were last time, but the vein blew. Next was the top of my hand. OUCH! So, looks like I will be getting a port. fun fun

Other than that and my arm being bruised and sore, everything went fine! Todd and I went to Posado's and I got my fix. Then off to Kohl's to buy some new ornaments. I love ornaments! I got one to remember this year by...it says:

That has been my focus word through this ordeal.

Speaking of putting things on the tree, I was moved to tears when Jennifer (Todd's sister) sent me this picture that Jacob, their 7-year-old brother, wrote and put on their tree:


Wow, I had a lump in my throat for a while after that. It's really tough not getting to see his family but once a year, and not getting to go this year is not setting well with me. I'm pretty sure Santa is gonna bring a webcam, so we are making plans to have a "cyber-Christmas". Hey, better than nothing!!

Well, I will let you know how the rest of the week goes. I'm praying for better-than-last-time!

"In God I will praise His word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me." Psalm 56:4

Ketchup

Gotcha! This blog has NOTHING to do with ketchup.....more like catch-up!

I wasn't able to go to church today and wasn't able last week either, so it's been two weeks! I really don't like that! I haven't felt real well this week...ya know, that not-really-sick-but-just-dont-feel-good feeling? Yeah, that.

Todd and Zachary have been home all week and its been great! We got a new game "Would You Rather...?" and it's really fun! Really makes you think and gives you lots of stuff to talk about!

This year was Thanksgiving with my side of the family. So most of the crew came down. We had originally planned to have it at our new house....but it didn't happen. We opted for Luby's (they cook, they clean up) and everyone go out to the condos for dessert and games. It was a great idea!

Here we are at Lubys, minus Danny and Wanda:

I wore a mask to keep germs at bay. But someone mentioned it was missing something, so I added this:

All four of us kids together with Daddy:

L-R: Sheron, me, Daddy, Niel, Mike

Here's my Daddy with my wig on:

And, Taylor modeling it:

The Longhorns and Aggies played that day.....guess who our family rooted for? (sorry all ya'll in Aggieland!)

Friday I got to have breakfast with our good friend Ben:

Friday and Saturday we drug out the Christmas decorations. Here is our front door:

If you look through the front window, this is what you'll see:

Our tree and fireplace:

The Reason for the Season:

Next week is Chemo Week. Treatment #3 which means I will be HALFWAY FINISHED! wooo hoooo!! I go Monday for bloodwork and providing everything is good - Tuesday is #3.

I simply cannot express the gratitude I feel for all of you. So many of you tell me you check everyday for an update and that you are faithful readers. I hope I at least entertain you for the few minutes you are here, and maybe some of my more inspirational blogs help you in some way.

Those of you who know me well, know that I'm quite an emotional person. There is something about the holidays that bring out deeper emotion...especially Thanksgiving. I'm so grateful for all that God has given me and our family. The most precious things in my life....are not things. They are my darling husband, handsome son, and all my family and friends.

As I hung ornaments on the tree....which is more like a Memory Tree....I thought about each ornament that represented various 'times' in our life, people who gave me certain ornaments, people who made certain ornaments, and of course the realization of how time flies when pulling out the paper ornaments that Zachary made as a child.

I had tears in my eyes as I put the one ornament I have of Mom's on the tree...its a Hallmark Precious Moments dated 1978. Thirty years old. It got a special place near the top. Our tree won't win a "most beautifully decorated" award, but that's okay. It represents many precious memories during the almost-20 years we have been married. We are truly blessed!

So as we enter this Christmas season, we give thanks for the Perfect Gift - God robing Himself in flesh and coming to earth to save us from our sin. We are so thankful for each and everyone of you who care about us. Soon this journey will be over and we can all move onto our regularly scheduled lives. I will eventually write the final post on "my cancer journey", but I will never forget the enormous amount of love I have felt through it all. Because it is YOU, my precious family and friends, that have let me know I'm not on this journey alone. I am a blessed woman!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all my family and friends! Wow! I have so incredibly much to be thankful for! If you are reading this, I am thankful for you! To have people who care about you is such a blessing. Or maybe, you're just checking my blog to see what goofy picture I put up of myself so you can laugh. Oh well, just trying to be a blessin'!

This has been a wonderful week so far. Todd and Zachary are both off this week, so we have enjoyed catching up on Family Time. I have felt great and all is well at the Lawsons. Even the dog is happy.

SYDNEY, our Labradoodle

I hope you all have a fabulous Thanksgiving and God Bless you all!!

"I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify Him with thanksgiving." Psalm 69:30

Chilly Friday!

Happy Friday! It has been a great week!

Went to PT today and it was time to measure my progress. There were several ranges of motion that I was back in the 'normal' range! Woo hoo! Proof that I am..somewhat..normal. (Of course, I really am...Norma L....normal....yeah, okay, in name only, I know what some of you are thinking!)

It was COLD this morning as I headed out! I had my new black fleece hat and ear warmer on!


Wednesday my sweet Daddy turned 81, so we went to Spring Creek BBQ last night to celebrate. I ate a baked potato. Maybe later on the bbq!

Here's me and my Daddy:



Here's me and my Darling:


This is Pastor and Sis. Littlefield with Daddy and Odessa:

Not a lot to report, but that's okay! Next week is Thanksgiving and I have SOOOOO much to be thankful for! More on that later...

Have a fabulous weekend!

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might." Ephesians 6:10

Whew!

Happy Monday! And YES....it's a good day! For all you wondering if the sun was shining on my day....YES! Literally and figuratively! The clouds, the wind AND the steam roller are gone! I am dealing with some residual effects, but they are *nothing* in comparison!

I was able to attend both services yesterday, not able to interpret though. Just too weak. Yesterday morning I was still a little puny, but we went to Cotton Patch and I was able to eat a full meal! woo hoo! It even tasted good! (I LOVE their baked squash!) Then back home for my Sunday afternoon nap....and when I woke up I felt so much better. Maybe it was the food, maybe it was the nap....just maybe it was my Healer! I give Him glory in it all!

The bad thing was I felt so good it was hard to settle my mind to sleep, so I didn't get to bed til late....oh well. Thought I might sleep late today, but I was up before 8 making a list of everything I need to do. I did create a special 'moment' for me....I love Bigelow's Raspberry Royale tea....so I brewed me a cup AND I drank it out of one of my 'special' cups. It usually sits on my counter looking pretty, but I washed the dust off and used that baby.

It is a fabulous day today. I plan to do what I feel like doing....which so far is catching up on emails and long lost email friends who think I need to behave myself (must've been the pink wig! LOL)....and enjoy FEELING GOOD! The past 5 days were rough....I honestly wondered for a while if it would end. Thank you all for the 'hang in there' encouragements and prayers!

Other happenings:

Daddy and Odessa sent me some beautiful roses from Odessa's bush:

We had an early Christmas present! It was cold this weekend, so Todd bought some gas logs for our fireplace. My recliner is right by the fireplace, so it was quite a cozy scene with me all snuggled up.

These go wwwaaaayyyy back! My niece, Jayme, made me this comfy fleece blanket that stays by my recliner, and here are Sheron and me with our matching pink and white Cowboys hats. She added a pretty jewled pink ribbon pin to the front:

Sheron also brought me a cute ladybug hat:

That's all for now, folks! Going now to mark off "update blog" on my list!

I can definitely relate this Scripture to last week! Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit. Eccl. 7:8

Blustery Day

Did someone get the license plate of that steam roller? UUUGGGHHH That is about how I feel - like I've been run over. Spent all day yesterday in my recliner. Rachel was my AOTD. Then Robbye and Whitney brought Little Italy for lunch, and I was able to eat some fettuccine alfredo and a roll. I really enjoyed visiting with them! Gonna miss Whitney when she moves off to Georgia again! =o(

Slept pretty well last night and got up this morning hoping to be back on my game. ....didn't happen. Not sure if it's because the chemo hit me harder this time and/or the fact that my red blood count is too low. Whatever it is, it is taking longer this time. Hopefully by next round I will have my RBCs up and this won't happen again. The great thing is - no nausea! I still don't feel like eating, most food tastes weird, but I am able to eat a little and keep it down. The muscle and bone pain has eased somewhat also. Just no energy for the 4th day in a row.

Val came by and brought me a Hershey's with Almonds that I was able to munch on a little. I don't like it that my chocolate tastes funny!!!

So here I am sitting in my recliner when I want to be at Courtney's shower. Courtney was in my SS class when she was 4, and today is her wedding shower. I won't be able to attend the wedding so I was counting on being there today! GRRR I hate this. I so wanted to be there for one of my girls and a family who is so special to us!!

Ya know, the only time I've felt anger through this is when it has robbed me of special moments. Not being able to watch my son's marching band shows was a biggie. I hate to hear Todd say, "Mom's had a bad day, we need to be quiet" like he has the past 4 days. I would much rather hear the laughing and bantering between them two. I hate sitting in this chair feeling like I've been beat. I hate having to depend on other people to do things for me. I hate missing celebrations for special friends.

Today, as I look out the window, it is a blustery day....as Winnie the Pooh would say. Blustery days can be quite frustrating! You've fixed your hair just right and walk outside just to have it whipped around your head making you look like you fixed it with your hand mixer. You have to hang on tight to your things or they'll blow out of your hands. Frustrating!

I guess I'm having some blustery days this week. Heffalumps and Woozles everywhere! So frustrating. Yes, I know everyone understands and doesn't expect anything from me....but I don't like it.

How many times have I not appreciated or enjoyed the 'moment' when I had it? Too many to count, I'm sure. These things seem to come to light when you 'can't' do something.

I love the quote "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain." Right now, I am frustrated about the winds that are blowing my stuff, but blustery days don't last forever. The question is what am I gonna do when the wind isn't blowing? Am I gonna take advantage of the moment, knowing I may never get another one like it?

I hope so....

Days 2 and 3

Well, Day 2 was a little rougher on me this time. Just didn't feel good yesterday. Louise was my Angel, and we went to get the Nuelasta shot and 86'd the PT. I just didn't feel like enduring any more pain. I spent most of the day in my recliner, but was able to eat a little, just nothing sounded good.

Today was worse, but thankfully not near as bad as my last "3rd day". Slight headache, no appetite, muscle and bone pain....but very little nausea! woo hoo! Evidently the extra steroids worked in that area like the doc said it should. Ruth was my Angel today and we were able to actually visit some....till I crashed for a couple hours.

I spent some time in my jacuzzi tub and that helped the pain some. Just have to remember this does pass...THANK THE LORD!

Tina D was a sweetie and brought us a wonderful supper. I was able to eat some but it sure is weird how everything tastes. Glad that side effect doesn't last long!

Hoping for a much better day tomorrow!!

Ding! Ding! Round 2!

Round 2 is done! Cancer 0, Norma 2 Four more rounds to go.

Ruth and Emily were my "Angel and Cherub of the Day". They came and escorted me to the ring.

Here is today's look: "Sportin' a 'tude on chemo day" (attitude) I had on my pink leather do-rag that my big brother gave me. Sorry it's a little blurry - camera phone.

Everything went well, other than the first stick didn't work...no blood in that vein I guess, so she went to my wrist. OUCH!!

Here's me getting my 'red drug' and....my Cherry Blue Bell popsicle. They diluted the med this time, so it took two injections....I got a grape popsicle, too! You can partially see under my left arm is the Boyd's bear that my sweet husband got me.

We were done in 3 hours! It seemed to go by faster this time, maybe because I was better prepared. The dr gave me extra steriods and said that my symptoms should be better this time, especially the nausea. Sure hope so!

Afterwards, my Darling and I went to Posado's - we are so hungry!! Then to Walmart to pick up a few things, then to another store for some part he needed, then to Fred's to get what we forgot at Walmart....then HOME! I'm exhausted and headed either to my recliner, or maybe to my jacuzzi tub....I'm not sure yet.

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Thought for the evening:

Mark Twain said, "Courage is not the lack of fear. It is acting in spite of it."

Iron, Kids and M&Ms **UPDATED**

** This blog has be edited - check out the recreated pictures "Sunday's Look"**

Happy Monday.....Night! (barely)

I waited to post until I had the results of my dr visit today....and all is well. All my bloodwork is good with the exception of my red blood cells which are higher than last time, but still too low. "Borderline anemic", so I have to take some iron. Which probably accounts for the tiredness, but all is on schedule for my 2nd chemo treatment tomorrow.

Dr. asked me what the hardest part of this whole ordeal has been - I said, "Besides... all of it?" I just don't know. I'd have to think about that one. I don't feel like thinking that hard. I just deal with it as it comes and move on.

He got a big kick out of my story of hiding the premium M&M's Ruth got me...and I forgot where I hid them! Friday, Ruth had asked if I liked them, and said my face told the whole story. She was laughing so hard at me!

Well...see...she gave them to me soon after chemo treatment, and I didn't want them to disappear like (ahem!) several other pieces of MY chocolate did...so I hid it! For those of you who might not understand "chemo brain"....it does baaaddd things to your memory! You forget and it's a different kind of 'forgetting', worse than the gettin' old kind. Also, Ruth has been through chemo, and warned me.

Yes, you better believe I searched until I found those yummy Premium M&Ms....and they are just fabulous. Yes....they are still hid. No.....I won't tell you where.

This was today's look:

Earlier today, I had a chiropractor appointment and the receptionist, who always called me by name as soon as she saw me, said: "May I help you?" LOLOL I said, "It's me, Norma! How do you like my new look?" She said, "Oh it is you!" We had a good laugh. I know I look really different, and I warned her that I might look different every time she saw me! hee hee

PT went fairly well, except the room was COLD! My therapist is wonderful and she worked my arm hard today. But we are making progress and progress is GOOD! I left there and went to Starbucks for some hot chocolate and Tylenol.

Going back in time...I was able to go to BOTH church services yesterday! Yippee! I was even able to interpret a few songs both times, and that was a really good feeling for me! Even though my movements were somewhat limited, and "chemo brain" was present several times, I felt a huge accomplishment.

Here are pictures of "Sunday's look".

And from the side:

I had many compliments and even an "A-ok" sign from the platform, so I guess I passed inspection. It was amusing to watch the double-takes! Todd introduced me as his new brunette wife...

Saturday we enjoyed catered Spring Creek BBQ and games with our dear friends, Troy and Vickie. Thanks ya'll!!! We had a blast!

Friday was the first time I went out after spending most of the week indoors combing out wads of hair. My hair was gone by then, so I wore my new brown hat from Pat, and my 'hat hair'.

This was Friday's look:

I had a great PT report: "progressing quicker than expected". Hurray! Afterwards, I went and played with Taylor and Emily for several hours. I wanted to spend some quality time with them since I haven't been able to for several weeks.

This also gave them the opportunity to see the 'new' me. At first, Emily (16 mo) wasn't too sure about me, but it didn't take long. Taylor (5) was hilarious! We went to pick her up from school and she got in the car with the funniest quizzical expression. Then she got close enough to see me and squealed, "AUNT NORMA!!! You have on a wig!!" and hugged me real tight. Of course, I just melted. I had so much fun playing "Mom and Kid" (yes, I was the kid! no, we didn't take pictures. RATS!) There something about the unconditional love of kids! Great therapy!

This backs us up to my last post, so you are completely updated unless I've forgotten something, which, you know by now, is entirely possible.

To those of you who don't post a comment because you don't want anyone to read it, please know that I read and approve all the comments before they are posted. If you don't want it posted, just tell me "PLEASE DON'T POST" and I won't. Or....you can email me. Many folks do that and it is totally fine! I have a special folder where I am keeping all my emails of encouragement. tnzlawson@yahoo.com

I guess I better hit the sack as I have a big day tomorrow. I can't say it's any easier, but being on this side of the 1st treatment reinforces the fact that the clouds do go away. In perspective, out of 21 days, only 3 were bad - the day of chemo, the 3rd and 4th day. So I can go into tomorrow knowing there are 6 times more good days than bad. The pain and nausea do pass!

Therefore, at 11:58 p.m. I will say with the psalmist "I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

It's Friday! woo hoo!

Well, this week has been pretty rough emotionally for me. My hair is gone. Yep, G O N E. Like Elvis, green stamps and New Coke. Gone.

I have to say it was somewhat of a relief after crying nearly every time I brushed a wad of hair into the sink. I have a gallon ziploc bag nearly full. Todd and I decided we would return it to nature...let the birds and squirrels make nests with it. How green of us!

So I will look quite different when you see me. With the various assortment of headwear I have, I may look different EVERY time you see me! I'll post pics later....

Other than that, I've had a great week! Next week is chemo week. Providing my bloodwork is good and Dr okays everything Monday, I will have treatment Tuesday. Which puts my "3rd and 4th day" on Thursday and Friday. yuck. Oh well. This too shall pass!

Hope you all have a marvelous weekend!


Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea and all that therein is, who keepeth truth for ever; Psalm 146:5 & 6

Season of Change

Happy Monday!

Today as I was getting ready for my PT appointment, I was listening to the weather forecast on the radio. B-YOO-TI-FUL weather in store! Ahhh....Fall!

As I mentioned on my last blog, my hair is beginning to come out and today was no exception. I had a handful after combing this morning. I can't say I'm totally prepared for it.....how do you prepare yourself for something you've never experienced? I have my wigs, yes, but just not sure about seeing myself with a bald head. But, it's only temporary. I'm sure I'll cry about it, then get over it just like I've done with most of what has happened up 'til now.

This morning as I was driving (yes, I drove myself! Progress!) I decided to take a back road and I was so glad I did. The East Texas trees are starting to turn beautiful shades of yellow, orange and red and it was just breathtaking! The leaves are the most beautiful part of the tree and are often how we identify its type. Then I thought about the fact that this means the leaves are actually dying and will soon blanket the ground, leaving the tree barren and spindly.

But the neat thing about this is, now the tree can focus on growing deeper roots to sustain itself. It may look dormant on the outside, but underground through the Winter, it is searching for more to sustain the extra growth that will come with Spring.

It reminded me of the journey I am on - the chemo is taking its toll on my body, soon I will lose my hair and other side effects will probably manifest. It is so important that I use this "Winter" time to dig a little deeper into my Lifesource. Yes, part of my identity will be gone....for a season...but my hair is not WHO I am. It is my desire to be a stronger Christian when this journey has ended. I can only do that by rooting myself deeper in my Creator.

As I pondered these thoughts, I felt Him speak to my heart, "Fall and Winter aren't forever, Spring is on the way". It will be close to Spring when all my treatments are over, if all goes well. With 5 more chemo treatments left, I know there will be some days I feel quite barren; but I know those times can make me stronger when Spring comes in my life!

Proverbs 12:3b - "...the root of the righteous shall not be moved."

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I like how The Message translates 2 Corinthians 4:16-18: So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever.

Angels and Pink Hair

Wow! It's Saturday already? I have been thinking I needed to update my "blob" but didn't realize it has been since Monday that I wrote! wow


The good thing is I am feeling great! My Angel of the Day, Whitney, and I went for PT Tuesday, and I was a little tired and sore afterwards. Wednesday and Thursday I just vegged. Friday Val was my AOTD, I went to PT again and had made some improvements! woo hoo!


Then we went to Wally World and I got a buggy full...and I was able to walk and push the buggy...until it got too heavy. I had a little incident with a basket mounted on the pole. Somehow I didn't see it and backed into it. I didn't cry, but it almost hurt that bad. Left a bruise. Val was threatening to wrap me up in bubble wrap.


We came home and visited until Todd told us the next door neighbor said our neighborhood is where the trick or treaters come by the droves. Oh great! He had bought 2 little bags of chocolate! I raided our candy jar hoping we would have enough. I also decided to have a little fun of my own, so this is how I greeted the trickertreaters:

Val got Todd's head light and wore it as her costume:


The funniest thing was when Todd decided to trick or treat US. He had been outside for a while, then rang our doorbell. Thinking it was kids, Val opened the door, and Todd (on his knees) said "TRICK OR TREAT!" She screamed, I screamed, she ran and we were all laughing so hard we cried!

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Later, I was hungry so we went to the DQ cuz we didn't want to drive into town. Yep, I wore my pretty pink hair and pink Longhorn cap!

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Last Friday night, we went to watch Zachary's band perform at halftime. This was the first time I was able to see their whole performance. My hair was a mess and I didn't feel like doing anything with it, so I wore my white autographed hat:

I have two hats that my visitors have signed. Cool, huh? Zachary's idea!

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I have felt very good the past few days, pretty much back to normal...other than tiring out quickly, having to be careful when lifting or pulling, and keeping my suppressed immune system in mind. It's a great feeling!

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My hair has been coming out some. Not a lot, but more than usual. I figure this week will probably be the last week I have my hair. I found some cute knit hats at WM and bought one in almost every color, with gloves to match. The man behind me in line said I must be going on a winter trip. I said, "Nope, I'm about to lose my hair to chemo, so these will be my headgear for the next few months!" I think he wished he'd had chocolate shoes right then. LOL It didn't bother me at all!

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My wigs are all washed and ready, thanks to my Big Sis! We washed them and laid them out to dry in Z's bathroom. When he came home from school, he asked if Indians had been in the house cuz there were scalps in his bathroom. LOL!

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Well, that's all I can think of. I'm sure much more happened...I just don't remember it right now.

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Have a wonderful weekend! It's a brand new month!

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This is the day that the Lord has made! I will rejoice and be glad in it!