Yesterday, I had my 4th chemo treatment, which was the first round of Taxotere and Herceptin for me.
This time I went to the new doctor's office that is closer to my house, rather than the one I usually go to. I'm not a huge fan of this new office. It is much smaller than the other office. The waiting room isn't as comfortable and welcoming either. Also the other office has a big living room size room with all the recliners for infusion. This office seems to have just knocked down a wall between exam rooms and shoved recliners in wherever they fit.
This time I think they overbooked because they weren't open on Monday, so it was super busy. My appointment was at 11:45 a.m. I got there around 11:30 with Donna and my niece Ashton. There was only one empty chair in the whole waiting room. Some opened up as we waited, but I didn't get called back until at least noon, probably more like 12:15. They took my vitals and I told the nurse I forgot to take my steroid the night before chemo like I was supposed to, although I took it first thing in the morning. She didn't think it would be a problem. Then they sent me to the exam room to wait for Dr. Y. He did the usual check up with me and then I waited a bit longer and the nurse came back to tell me they were trying to figure out where to put me. I asked her how long this infusion would take (since it's my first time for this treatment). She said about an hour or so for the Taxotere and an hour and a half for the Herceptin for the first dose. She came back and told me to begin with they were going to put me in a different exam room in a rolly computer chair (with no arms). I then went to the waiting room to tell Donna and Ashton that I'd be at least 3 hours, so if they wanted to go back to the house to wait, they could come back later to pick me up. Seriously the waiting room was awful.
I came back to assigned room and chair and found that I had a roomate in the same kind of awful chair. They had already started her IV and put her on saline and gave her a shot of benadryl so she started getting sleepy. Eventually she fell asleep in the chair and started snoring. Finally, around 1:00 p.m they came back and started my IV with saline. They gave me a shot of benadryl too and I took some Tylenol because the Taxotere can cause joint and bone pain. No nausea medicine this time. I had a book to read, so I kept occupied. Around 2:00 p.m they came in and finally started my Taxotere (2 hours and 15 minutes after my appointment time). I stayed in that room until my Taxotere was done and they hooked up the Herceptin. Between 3 and 3:30 p.m. a recliner finally opened up and they moved me to the other room. It was much more comfortable and the last hour was much nicer. I finished up around 4:30 p.m.
Then I had to make my new appointments. Starting next week I'll be getting Herceptin weekly at the same time I get my CBC done. They seemed to have problems figuring out to schedule me. For some reason they want me to keep coming back to this new office. Probably because it's about 1/2 the distance from my house as the other office. Also it's very close to my work. The only problem is the new office doesn't have a lab, so they wanted me to go to the hospital next door to get my bloodwork done. The problem with that is the hospital lab won't access my port, so I'd have to get it done through my arm. Considering I only have one arm available for blood draws, I think that would get old very quick. I told them I really don't mind driving to the other office, but they didn't want to inconveniece me. Finally, they called the other office and arranged to draw blood at the new office through my port and then send it to the other office at the end of the day to the lab. They'll call me the next day if I need to take my Levaquin. So anyway, they scheduled my next Herceptin for Monday, Jan 2. By then they'll get the rest of my appointments scheduled and give me a print out of the dates. I did ask them to go ahead and schedule my next chemo, because with Grace's surgery coming up, I wanted to be sure I have childcare and work stuff figured out. It will be on Wedndesday, Jan 18th. That will be perfect because my Mom is coming on Tuesday and will be able to take care of Grace if I'm feeling icky. Plus I should be ok to take care of Grace the next week when I'm on my own again.
Regarding side effects, this does seem better than before. My hands did get a little tingly when they were starting the Taxotere, but it went away really quick and nothing since then. I had a brief moment of nausea when I got home, but I didn't even drink a whole sprite. I was able to eat a normal dinner too, that is better than normal. I haven't taken any nausea medicine either. I seem to have the most side effects from the steroid. Before I would take 1 pill a day for 3 days. Now I am to take 2 pills twice a day for 5 doses (2 1/2 days). It makes me very hot and flushed. Also, I have the huge appettite thing going on. I'll take it over naseau and vommiting though. The only other issue is some fatigue, but even that hasn't been too bad.
Well, I think I'm going to scrounge up some lunch.
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Monday, December 26, 2005
Merry Christmas!
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas holiday. Ours was very nice. Friday I had to go to Dr. Y's office in the morning for my CBC. As usual at this point in my cycle my white count was low, but not low enough to require my antibiotics! Yeah! I got into work around 10 a.m. and tried to cram as much as I could into those 2 hours. Our office closed at noon for Christmas. Once I left work I picked up some lunch and went to Eric's office and ate with him. Then I picked up Grace and took her to the doctor's office. She started coughing on Wednesday, which is usually a sign of an ear infection, so I wanted her to be seen before Christmas. Sure enough, she has a nasty infection in both ears, so we got a prescription and will go back to our previously scheduled appointment on Jan. 4th for a follow up.
Saturday was Christmas Eve and Grace got up nice and early. Eric went to work for an hour or two and Grace and I hung out and played all morning. Around 11 a.m. Will and Samara called and said they were going to come by around noon and we'd exchange gifts for the girls. However, after I informed them of Grace's ear infection with the cough and runny nose as a sidekick, they decided to keep the girls apart. I don't want to get into the tradition of giving Ava some kind of contagious disease or infection every holiday. So without any company, we just spent the day being lazy. We watched a little football and just hung out around the house. After Grace went to bed, we put together her big toy from Santa and got everything ready for Christmas morning. I also packed for our surprise Christmas trip.
Christmas morning we got up at 6:15 a.m. Grace hadn't slept very well the night before, I think this ear infection is really bothering her. We got up and opened presents. Grace was very excited to see her dinosaur from Santa. After opening our gifts we had breakfast and packed up our last minute items. By 7:45 a.m. we were on the road. Last week, I started feeling nastalgic for the old days when we would go to Grandma's for Christmas. Every year on Christmas afternoon, all my Aunts, Uncles and Cousins would show up at Grandma's house. As we've gotten older, not every one makes it every year, but the invitation is always open. Since we moved out of state (when I got married), I think we've only made it back once. There really wasn't any reason we couldn't go this year, except we didn't want to travel, so I talked to Eric and we decided to go. Now my parents and brother drove over from Iowa on Friday so they were going to be there too. We decided not to tell them we were coming and surprise them. We got to Grandma's just before noon and no one was there. Luckily I knew where they hide the key, so we got into the house. They had went to church and weren't back yet. About 5 minutes later, my Grandparents got back, but I called Mom on the cell phone to wish her Merry Christmas. She sounded sad that she wouldn't see me. I got off the phone quickly and they got to the house a few minutes later. They thought it was a good surpise. We visited for a bit and then took Grace took a 2 hour nap and I layed down for about an hour. Everyone else started arriving around 3 p.m. It was a houseful. Around 5:30 p.m. we decided to leave, because we were going to go to Eric's brother's for the night since we weren't going to see them this year either. Grace napped in the car and then we drove the hour and a half to their house. Once we got there we did Christmas with Eric's Mom and brother. Grace did awesome and loved playing with her cousins and their big dog! She finally got her bath and to bed around 9 p.m. (that's a late night for my little lady).
This morning Grace woke up crying once around 5:45 a.m. I settled her and she went back to sleep for a while. I'm not sure how long, but a little while later she had a coughing fit and started to get upset, so I picked her up and put her in bed with me. We cuddled and dozed on and off until we all got up around 8 a.m. The girls played and visited and Leslie made us a huge breakfast. We had eggs, french toast, and biscuits and gravy. Yum! After breakfast, we decided to head out because it was obvious Grace was ready for a nap. The drive home was uneventful. Grace slept for about 2 hours when we first got in the car and was good the second half of the trip. However, this afternoon she was a terror. We couldn't do anything to keep her happy. I think she cried for about two hours straight. We eventually decided to give her dinner early and I had her in bed at 6:30 p.m. (about an hour earlier than normal). I'm hoping she was just tired from the weekend and her ears aren't bothering her that bad. I don't like her to feel bad, but the crying needed to stop. We were ready to pull our hair out. Luckily she layed down and went right to sleep tonight.
I'm going to go to work tomorrow and then Donna is coming back tomorrow afternoon. She's decided to bring my niece Ashton with her since she's out of school this week. She's seven now and I think she'll be fine. Her Mom talked to her a little bit about me being sick and I think she'll be more pre-occupied with Grace then me. As long as they let me rest on the couch, I won't complain. Wednesday, I've got round 4 of chemo. This will be the new combo of Taxotere and Herceptin, so I'm not sure what to expect. I'll be off work the rest of the week and probably Monday too. Look forward to the chemo update and then my New Year's Resolution post as we get ready to head into 2006!
Saturday was Christmas Eve and Grace got up nice and early. Eric went to work for an hour or two and Grace and I hung out and played all morning. Around 11 a.m. Will and Samara called and said they were going to come by around noon and we'd exchange gifts for the girls. However, after I informed them of Grace's ear infection with the cough and runny nose as a sidekick, they decided to keep the girls apart. I don't want to get into the tradition of giving Ava some kind of contagious disease or infection every holiday. So without any company, we just spent the day being lazy. We watched a little football and just hung out around the house. After Grace went to bed, we put together her big toy from Santa and got everything ready for Christmas morning. I also packed for our surprise Christmas trip.
Christmas morning we got up at 6:15 a.m. Grace hadn't slept very well the night before, I think this ear infection is really bothering her. We got up and opened presents. Grace was very excited to see her dinosaur from Santa. After opening our gifts we had breakfast and packed up our last minute items. By 7:45 a.m. we were on the road. Last week, I started feeling nastalgic for the old days when we would go to Grandma's for Christmas. Every year on Christmas afternoon, all my Aunts, Uncles and Cousins would show up at Grandma's house. As we've gotten older, not every one makes it every year, but the invitation is always open. Since we moved out of state (when I got married), I think we've only made it back once. There really wasn't any reason we couldn't go this year, except we didn't want to travel, so I talked to Eric and we decided to go. Now my parents and brother drove over from Iowa on Friday so they were going to be there too. We decided not to tell them we were coming and surprise them. We got to Grandma's just before noon and no one was there. Luckily I knew where they hide the key, so we got into the house. They had went to church and weren't back yet. About 5 minutes later, my Grandparents got back, but I called Mom on the cell phone to wish her Merry Christmas. She sounded sad that she wouldn't see me. I got off the phone quickly and they got to the house a few minutes later. They thought it was a good surpise. We visited for a bit and then took Grace took a 2 hour nap and I layed down for about an hour. Everyone else started arriving around 3 p.m. It was a houseful. Around 5:30 p.m. we decided to leave, because we were going to go to Eric's brother's for the night since we weren't going to see them this year either. Grace napped in the car and then we drove the hour and a half to their house. Once we got there we did Christmas with Eric's Mom and brother. Grace did awesome and loved playing with her cousins and their big dog! She finally got her bath and to bed around 9 p.m. (that's a late night for my little lady).
This morning Grace woke up crying once around 5:45 a.m. I settled her and she went back to sleep for a while. I'm not sure how long, but a little while later she had a coughing fit and started to get upset, so I picked her up and put her in bed with me. We cuddled and dozed on and off until we all got up around 8 a.m. The girls played and visited and Leslie made us a huge breakfast. We had eggs, french toast, and biscuits and gravy. Yum! After breakfast, we decided to head out because it was obvious Grace was ready for a nap. The drive home was uneventful. Grace slept for about 2 hours when we first got in the car and was good the second half of the trip. However, this afternoon she was a terror. We couldn't do anything to keep her happy. I think she cried for about two hours straight. We eventually decided to give her dinner early and I had her in bed at 6:30 p.m. (about an hour earlier than normal). I'm hoping she was just tired from the weekend and her ears aren't bothering her that bad. I don't like her to feel bad, but the crying needed to stop. We were ready to pull our hair out. Luckily she layed down and went right to sleep tonight.
I'm going to go to work tomorrow and then Donna is coming back tomorrow afternoon. She's decided to bring my niece Ashton with her since she's out of school this week. She's seven now and I think she'll be fine. Her Mom talked to her a little bit about me being sick and I think she'll be more pre-occupied with Grace then me. As long as they let me rest on the couch, I won't complain. Wednesday, I've got round 4 of chemo. This will be the new combo of Taxotere and Herceptin, so I'm not sure what to expect. I'll be off work the rest of the week and probably Monday too. Look forward to the chemo update and then my New Year's Resolution post as we get ready to head into 2006!
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Christmas and Birthday Weekend
Finally, a chance to update about the weekend. It was super busy, but lots of fun too.
Friday
After some flight delays and changing flights, my parents and brother made it into town 1 hour later than their original scheduled arrival time, but about 7 hours before their luggage finished the trip. They rented a car, checked into a hotel, and went to Wal-Mart to finish their shopping for Grace and to buy some wrapping paper to wrap gifts before meeting us at home after work. We visited and had our family Christmas. Eric was the proud recipient of a PSP, I got a portable DVD player and Grace got a Weebles Treehouse and Ball Popper among other gifts. After opening presents we gave Grace a bath and put her to bed and ordered pizza for dinner. We visited for a while more before they left to go get their luggage at the airport and head back to the hotel to go to bed.
Saturday
Eric had to work for a couple of hours, so when we got up, he went to work and Grace and I picked up my family and we headed to First Watch for breakfast. Grace had a Chocolate Chip Pancake and fruit cup, she is such a good eater! After breakfast, we stopped by Wal-Mart to pick up the cakes and ice cream. Then I dropped off the family to shower and change and Grace and I headed home. Grace napped for about an hour while Eric and I did some final cleaning touches and he took the dog to get his nails trimmed. I managed to get a shower in too. My family came back over around 11:30 or so and Eric's Mom arrived about that time too. Mom and I left Grace to play with Nana (Eric's mom) and we went to the party store to get a helium balloon, some plastic spoons, bowls, and some ice and drinks for the party. We also picked up lunch for the crew. After we fed everyone lunch, I put Grace down for a nap around 1. I hoped she'd sleep until 3, so she'd be fresh for the party. We decorated while she napped, but she decided by 2:00 p.m. that she wasn't interested in napping. As a result, she started getting tired eyes just before her party. She managed to pull through. Eric's Dad and girlfriend arrived right around 3:30 p.m. My neighbor April stopped by and dropped off a gift before the party too. Our only other guests were Will, Samara, and Ava. Samara's sister Sunny was in town too, so she joined us as well. Once everyone arrived, we wanted to get things started as Grace was looking really tired. First she opened her gifts. She was mostly interested in the wrapping paper, but she got a lot of cute clothes and some more fun toys that I'm sure she'll get lots of use out of. When we finished opening gifts, we had the cake and ice cream. Shortly after that, the entire family decided to head out as a group to Champps for dinner. It was good as always. We got home from dinner around 7 p.m. Grace was exhausted, so my Mom took her up for her bath and to put her to bed while Eric and I did Christmas with his Dad and Christie. I felt bad that Grace didn't participate, but she won't rememeber anyway, so we opened her gifts for us. My favorite gift from that Christmas exchange was a beautiful Sapphire bracelet. Very pretty. Once we finished Christmas, Gary and Christie headed to the hotel. My parents stuck around for just a little while, and then they left too. Eric's mom stayed with us.
Sunday
My parents flight left at 7 a.m., so we didn't see them before they headed out. We went to church and Donna came with us. Eric and I were scheduled to light the 4th Advent candle at our service. Once church was over, we came home. Eric's Dad had said they were going to come by around noon, but when we checked the messages at home, they decided to head back early, so we didn't see them on Sunday. Eric's Mom isn't working this week, so she decided to stay Sunday and Monday too. Since we had a grandma in the house, I decided to go with Eric to BW3s to watch the Colts game. It was disappointing that they lost, but it was nice to be able to do something on Sunday afternoon and know Grace was still getting her nap and being well cared for. After the game we went home and then I realized I should probably go to the grocery store before the weekend was over. I didn't get my list together until almost 5, but I got to leave Grace at home, so I wasn't rushing to make it home for her dinner. I got home to a clean baby in her PJs waiting for Mommy to put her to bed.
Monday
Eric's mom was still in town, so Grace stayed home with her instead of going to daycare while Eric and I went to work. We came home and visited for a few minutes and then we went shopping. The gifts I wanted for Christmas this year were better suited to me picking them out, so we went shopping together. I got a new purse and wallet. I also got 2 new pair of work pants and 2 sweaters from New York and Company. It was really fun. Once we finished at the mall, we headed to Outback for dinner. Eric and I had some really nice conversation and I think we both enjoyed our date. We came home around 9 p.m. and just hung out with Donna until time for bed.
Donna left this morning when we left for work. Tonight I'm going to try to pick up a bit and start working on some of my New Year's resolutions. I think I've got some big ones and I want to be ready to go on January 1. Don't worry, I'll keep you posted.
Plans for the rest of this week include working. Friday morning I have to get my CBC done and then our office closes at 1 p.m. I'll pick Grace up and spend the afternoon with her. I think we'll go to the Christmas Eve service at church on Saturday evening. We don't have any plans for Christmas except opening gifts together and going to church. We may try to get together with Will, Samara, and Ava, but nothing's set yet. Next week I'm off on Monday, I'll work Tuesday and then Tuesday afternoon Donna's coming back for the rest of the week. Wednesday I've got chemo again and I'll hopefully feel better by the new year.
Friday
After some flight delays and changing flights, my parents and brother made it into town 1 hour later than their original scheduled arrival time, but about 7 hours before their luggage finished the trip. They rented a car, checked into a hotel, and went to Wal-Mart to finish their shopping for Grace and to buy some wrapping paper to wrap gifts before meeting us at home after work. We visited and had our family Christmas. Eric was the proud recipient of a PSP, I got a portable DVD player and Grace got a Weebles Treehouse and Ball Popper among other gifts. After opening presents we gave Grace a bath and put her to bed and ordered pizza for dinner. We visited for a while more before they left to go get their luggage at the airport and head back to the hotel to go to bed.
Saturday
Eric had to work for a couple of hours, so when we got up, he went to work and Grace and I picked up my family and we headed to First Watch for breakfast. Grace had a Chocolate Chip Pancake and fruit cup, she is such a good eater! After breakfast, we stopped by Wal-Mart to pick up the cakes and ice cream. Then I dropped off the family to shower and change and Grace and I headed home. Grace napped for about an hour while Eric and I did some final cleaning touches and he took the dog to get his nails trimmed. I managed to get a shower in too. My family came back over around 11:30 or so and Eric's Mom arrived about that time too. Mom and I left Grace to play with Nana (Eric's mom) and we went to the party store to get a helium balloon, some plastic spoons, bowls, and some ice and drinks for the party. We also picked up lunch for the crew. After we fed everyone lunch, I put Grace down for a nap around 1. I hoped she'd sleep until 3, so she'd be fresh for the party. We decorated while she napped, but she decided by 2:00 p.m. that she wasn't interested in napping. As a result, she started getting tired eyes just before her party. She managed to pull through. Eric's Dad and girlfriend arrived right around 3:30 p.m. My neighbor April stopped by and dropped off a gift before the party too. Our only other guests were Will, Samara, and Ava. Samara's sister Sunny was in town too, so she joined us as well. Once everyone arrived, we wanted to get things started as Grace was looking really tired. First she opened her gifts. She was mostly interested in the wrapping paper, but she got a lot of cute clothes and some more fun toys that I'm sure she'll get lots of use out of. When we finished opening gifts, we had the cake and ice cream. Shortly after that, the entire family decided to head out as a group to Champps for dinner. It was good as always. We got home from dinner around 7 p.m. Grace was exhausted, so my Mom took her up for her bath and to put her to bed while Eric and I did Christmas with his Dad and Christie. I felt bad that Grace didn't participate, but she won't rememeber anyway, so we opened her gifts for us. My favorite gift from that Christmas exchange was a beautiful Sapphire bracelet. Very pretty. Once we finished Christmas, Gary and Christie headed to the hotel. My parents stuck around for just a little while, and then they left too. Eric's mom stayed with us.
Sunday
My parents flight left at 7 a.m., so we didn't see them before they headed out. We went to church and Donna came with us. Eric and I were scheduled to light the 4th Advent candle at our service. Once church was over, we came home. Eric's Dad had said they were going to come by around noon, but when we checked the messages at home, they decided to head back early, so we didn't see them on Sunday. Eric's Mom isn't working this week, so she decided to stay Sunday and Monday too. Since we had a grandma in the house, I decided to go with Eric to BW3s to watch the Colts game. It was disappointing that they lost, but it was nice to be able to do something on Sunday afternoon and know Grace was still getting her nap and being well cared for. After the game we went home and then I realized I should probably go to the grocery store before the weekend was over. I didn't get my list together until almost 5, but I got to leave Grace at home, so I wasn't rushing to make it home for her dinner. I got home to a clean baby in her PJs waiting for Mommy to put her to bed.
Monday
Eric's mom was still in town, so Grace stayed home with her instead of going to daycare while Eric and I went to work. We came home and visited for a few minutes and then we went shopping. The gifts I wanted for Christmas this year were better suited to me picking them out, so we went shopping together. I got a new purse and wallet. I also got 2 new pair of work pants and 2 sweaters from New York and Company. It was really fun. Once we finished at the mall, we headed to Outback for dinner. Eric and I had some really nice conversation and I think we both enjoyed our date. We came home around 9 p.m. and just hung out with Donna until time for bed.
Donna left this morning when we left for work. Tonight I'm going to try to pick up a bit and start working on some of my New Year's resolutions. I think I've got some big ones and I want to be ready to go on January 1. Don't worry, I'll keep you posted.
Plans for the rest of this week include working. Friday morning I have to get my CBC done and then our office closes at 1 p.m. I'll pick Grace up and spend the afternoon with her. I think we'll go to the Christmas Eve service at church on Saturday evening. We don't have any plans for Christmas except opening gifts together and going to church. We may try to get together with Will, Samara, and Ava, but nothing's set yet. Next week I'm off on Monday, I'll work Tuesday and then Tuesday afternoon Donna's coming back for the rest of the week. Wednesday I've got chemo again and I'll hopefully feel better by the new year.
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Birthday Photos
Grace enjoyed her birthday party! I've added even more pictures at Flickr. We had a very busy weekend with the party and extended family Christmas. I'll try to update in detail maybe tomorrow, although Eric and I have a date/shopping night planned, so it may have to wait until Tuesday!
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
12 Month Checkup
Today Grace had her 12 month doctor's appointment. It was relatively uneventful. She was the cutest baby in the waiting room and we had several comments about how cute her hair is in pigtails. (I may be a little biased, but she is really cute.)
Once we got back to the room, we stripped down to be weighed and measured. She was actually very cooperative laying on the scale, maybe because I was handing over Cheerios? She weighed 21 pounds, 12 ounces and was 29 inches tall. She is now right about the 50th percentile for both height and weight. Considering she started out as a big baby, I'm glad to see that she's back to average. The nurse who weighed her noticed her chicken pox marks (they haven't all faded yet) and decided to take that shot off the list for today.
After that we got to see Dr. H. I really love her, but unfortunately, it seems we only get to see her on "well visits." When Grace is sick we have to see whoever they can get us in with. At least the important questions get run by our doctor. We discussed her development. She's walking, saying a word or two, self-feeding, etc. We discussed the switch to whole milk. Her suggestion is to wean from formula with the bottle. Give Grace milk in a cup, but keep formula in the bottle. I'd like to try to start taking away the bottle after Grace's surgery anyway, so that may be a plan. Although, if Grace seems to like the milk ok, I may switch to milk completely before we're done with the bottle. Grace has been doing well trying out new table foods, so we didn't discuss much there and we don't have any sleep issues, so not much else to discuss.
Dr. H checked her ears and they both had fluid in them. One was slightly cloudy, but she didn't really want to give us another antibiotic, so we've decided to hold off until she gets a full blown ear infection. Also, since no one from Children's Hospital is going to see us again before Grace's surgery next month, she'd like to see Grace about a week to 10 days prior to surgery. That will give her a chance to check her ears again and if she develops another ear infection, we can get it mostly treated before surgery. If no infection, she'll be healthy heading in. After that appointment, our next check-up will be at 15 months.
After the doctor was done, the nurse came back to give Grace her 2 shots in the leg. Grace seemed slightly disturbed by the 2nd stick, but didn't cry at all. Both the nurse and I were amazed that there were no tears or screams, but we weren't complaining if she wasn't. Funny how she'll cry like the world is ending if she can't play with my cell phone, but two needles in the leg get nothing. Hmmm...maybe she's got some of her Mommy's tolerance of needles?
That was about it. Tomorrow night the daycare is having a Christmas program and Grace's class has a song. (I'm curious to see what this is all about), so I'll try to get some pictures. Friday my family is flying in for the party and Saturday is the 1st Birthday Party. I'll do lots of pictures this weekend for your viewing pleasure.
Once we got back to the room, we stripped down to be weighed and measured. She was actually very cooperative laying on the scale, maybe because I was handing over Cheerios? She weighed 21 pounds, 12 ounces and was 29 inches tall. She is now right about the 50th percentile for both height and weight. Considering she started out as a big baby, I'm glad to see that she's back to average. The nurse who weighed her noticed her chicken pox marks (they haven't all faded yet) and decided to take that shot off the list for today.
After that we got to see Dr. H. I really love her, but unfortunately, it seems we only get to see her on "well visits." When Grace is sick we have to see whoever they can get us in with. At least the important questions get run by our doctor. We discussed her development. She's walking, saying a word or two, self-feeding, etc. We discussed the switch to whole milk. Her suggestion is to wean from formula with the bottle. Give Grace milk in a cup, but keep formula in the bottle. I'd like to try to start taking away the bottle after Grace's surgery anyway, so that may be a plan. Although, if Grace seems to like the milk ok, I may switch to milk completely before we're done with the bottle. Grace has been doing well trying out new table foods, so we didn't discuss much there and we don't have any sleep issues, so not much else to discuss.
Dr. H checked her ears and they both had fluid in them. One was slightly cloudy, but she didn't really want to give us another antibiotic, so we've decided to hold off until she gets a full blown ear infection. Also, since no one from Children's Hospital is going to see us again before Grace's surgery next month, she'd like to see Grace about a week to 10 days prior to surgery. That will give her a chance to check her ears again and if she develops another ear infection, we can get it mostly treated before surgery. If no infection, she'll be healthy heading in. After that appointment, our next check-up will be at 15 months.
After the doctor was done, the nurse came back to give Grace her 2 shots in the leg. Grace seemed slightly disturbed by the 2nd stick, but didn't cry at all. Both the nurse and I were amazed that there were no tears or screams, but we weren't complaining if she wasn't. Funny how she'll cry like the world is ending if she can't play with my cell phone, but two needles in the leg get nothing. Hmmm...maybe she's got some of her Mommy's tolerance of needles?
That was about it. Tomorrow night the daycare is having a Christmas program and Grace's class has a song. (I'm curious to see what this is all about), so I'll try to get some pictures. Friday my family is flying in for the party and Saturday is the 1st Birthday Party. I'll do lots of pictures this weekend for your viewing pleasure.
Monday, December 12, 2005
Birthday Girl
Today is Grace's birthday. Doesn't she look excited. Unfortunately, I wasn't feeling very well today, so she went to daycare for the day, but we did sing the birthday song and her party is this weekend.
I can't believe how quickly this year has gone by. I still remember clearly the first time I got to hold my squirmy cone-headed baby girl.
Today, she can already walk and give hugs and kisses. She is continually showing her growing personality. She is eating mostly table foods and has 4 teeth. She has learned how to throw objects and I think she's going to be left-handed. She is showing signs of real intellingence (although I may be a bit biased). She's learned what "no" means and is starting to obey it regularly. She's figuring out how to manipulate objects and can figure out how things work. I am amazed by her development this year and am excited to see what else she has in store.
On Wednesday she has her 1 year check up with the doctor. We'll be starting to replace whole milk with formula. The carseat is about to turn to forward facing and in one month she'll have her surgery to repair her cleft palate.
Happy Birthday, Grace! Mommy loves you very much.
And for our last update from What to Expect the First Year.
By the end of this month, your baby
...should be able to:
- walk holding on to furniture
...will probably be able to:
- play patty-cake (clap hands) or wave bye-bye
- drink from a cup independently (she's tries, but spills all over herself)
- pick up a tiny object neatly with tips of thumb and forefinger
- stand alone momentarily
- say dada or mama discriminately (mama)
- say one word other than mama or dada (Zeus, although it sounds more like "oooh")
...may possibly be able to:
- indicate wants in ways other than crying
- "play ball" (roll ball back to you)
- stand alone well
- use immature jargoning
- walk well
...may even be able to:
- say three words or more other than mama or dada
- respond to a one-step command without gestures
I can't believe how quickly this year has gone by. I still remember clearly the first time I got to hold my squirmy cone-headed baby girl.
Today, she can already walk and give hugs and kisses. She is continually showing her growing personality. She is eating mostly table foods and has 4 teeth. She has learned how to throw objects and I think she's going to be left-handed. She is showing signs of real intellingence (although I may be a bit biased). She's learned what "no" means and is starting to obey it regularly. She's figuring out how to manipulate objects and can figure out how things work. I am amazed by her development this year and am excited to see what else she has in store.
On Wednesday she has her 1 year check up with the doctor. We'll be starting to replace whole milk with formula. The carseat is about to turn to forward facing and in one month she'll have her surgery to repair her cleft palate.
Happy Birthday, Grace! Mommy loves you very much.
And for our last update from What to Expect the First Year.
By the end of this month, your baby
...should be able to:
- walk holding on to furniture
...will probably be able to:
- play patty-cake (clap hands) or wave bye-bye
- drink from a cup independently (she's tries, but spills all over herself)
- pick up a tiny object neatly with tips of thumb and forefinger
- stand alone momentarily
- say dada or mama discriminately (mama)
- say one word other than mama or dada (Zeus, although it sounds more like "oooh")
...may possibly be able to:
- indicate wants in ways other than crying
- "play ball" (roll ball back to you)
- stand alone well
- use immature jargoning
- walk well
...may even be able to:
- say three words or more other than mama or dada
- respond to a one-step command without gestures
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Chemo #3 & Lovely Visitors
Chemo #3 is in the books, but so far today (Sunday Day #3) I feel the worst. However, I haven't had breakfast yet, so maybe I'll go try that and then come back and see how I feel.
Food helps. I feel a little better.
Friday my appointment was at 11:45 a.m., but things took much longer than normal. They seemed super busy, so I didn't even get the IVs started until about an hour later than normal. Usually the whole process takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Friday we were there until 4 p.m.
I took another break until 7:30 p.m. I've felt pretty awful today. Doing ok right now, but I should probably eat dinner soon before the nausea comes back full force.
Where was I...oh yes...Friday. We picked Grace up on the way home and I took about an hour nap before our guests arrived. I actually didn't feel that bad on Friday. A coworker had dropped dinner off, so I let everyone else eat that and I had a bowl of chicken noodle soup. We also let Grace open her birthday and Christmas presents from Eric and Erica. Erica helped me get Grace to bed and I followed just after 9 when I started to feel bad.
I think the steroid gives me sleeping issues, so Saturday I got up before at about 7:30, about an hour before Grace. Eric went to work for a little bit and the rest of us just hung out until Eric came home from work. When Grace took her morning nap, Erica and I started on the huge job of wrapping Christmas presents. The guys went out and did a little shopping. Eric T needed to get some boots and I needed my Eric to pick up a cord to hook up a scanner that Erica and Eric brought us and I needed to replace the batteries in the baby swing we had borrowed. The guys brought lunch home and after lunch Grace was ready for her afternoon nap. I was ready for a nap too, but my friend Tammy was coming by to visit for a little bit and pick up her baby stuff I borrowed. Her second child is due at the end of Janurary and I had her bouncy seat and swing, so she needed to pick it back up. She brought Jonathan (who is two now) and I finally had to go get Grace up from her nap so they could play a bit. After they left, I took about an hour nap and we put Grace back down for a little longer. We decided to venture out to dinner and we ate at Red Robin. I'd never been there, but it was pretty good. We ordered mac & cheese off the kids menu for Grace and she seemed to enjoy it. We ended up being out past her bedtime though, so she didn't go to bed until 8:30 p.m. Erica and I decided to finish up wrapping the presents and in the process found that the dog had found the Hershey's Pot of Gold chocolates I had purchased for a gift for my father-in-law. I didn't think he would mess with it because it was underneath a couple other items, plus wrapped in saran wrap and in a cardboard box, but Zeus found it anyway. He ate 21 turtle chocolates. He was a sick doggy Saturday night, but is back to himself today.
I didn't sleep well last night, so again I got up around 7:30 a.m. I took all my drugs and ate some oatmeal, but it didn't help that much. Erica and Eric left around that time before Grace and Eric got up. I layed back down until around 8:30 when the rest of the family got up. I really felt sick though, so I layed back down around 10:30. Eric came in around noon and told me Grace was napping and he was going to BW3s to watch the Colts game. Grace and I both got up around 1 and ate some lunch. Then the next 3 hours were really rough. I felt really sick, but I put the baby gate up and Grace had the run of living room and kitchen while I layed on the couch. Around 4, Grace started acting tired again, so we both layed back down for an hour until Eric got home. He's been entertaining her this evening while I have been lounging on the couch. Yuck. I took some more medicine after my nap and around 6:30 finally started to feel a little better. It feels like it's wearing off though, so I'm going to try to eat something before I feel too sick. Hopefully, I'll make it through the survivor season finale tonight.
Tomorrow is Grace's birthday, so I'd like to update for her, although her party isn't until next weekend.
Food helps. I feel a little better.
Friday my appointment was at 11:45 a.m., but things took much longer than normal. They seemed super busy, so I didn't even get the IVs started until about an hour later than normal. Usually the whole process takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Friday we were there until 4 p.m.
I took another break until 7:30 p.m. I've felt pretty awful today. Doing ok right now, but I should probably eat dinner soon before the nausea comes back full force.
Where was I...oh yes...Friday. We picked Grace up on the way home and I took about an hour nap before our guests arrived. I actually didn't feel that bad on Friday. A coworker had dropped dinner off, so I let everyone else eat that and I had a bowl of chicken noodle soup. We also let Grace open her birthday and Christmas presents from Eric and Erica. Erica helped me get Grace to bed and I followed just after 9 when I started to feel bad.
I think the steroid gives me sleeping issues, so Saturday I got up before at about 7:30, about an hour before Grace. Eric went to work for a little bit and the rest of us just hung out until Eric came home from work. When Grace took her morning nap, Erica and I started on the huge job of wrapping Christmas presents. The guys went out and did a little shopping. Eric T needed to get some boots and I needed my Eric to pick up a cord to hook up a scanner that Erica and Eric brought us and I needed to replace the batteries in the baby swing we had borrowed. The guys brought lunch home and after lunch Grace was ready for her afternoon nap. I was ready for a nap too, but my friend Tammy was coming by to visit for a little bit and pick up her baby stuff I borrowed. Her second child is due at the end of Janurary and I had her bouncy seat and swing, so she needed to pick it back up. She brought Jonathan (who is two now) and I finally had to go get Grace up from her nap so they could play a bit. After they left, I took about an hour nap and we put Grace back down for a little longer. We decided to venture out to dinner and we ate at Red Robin. I'd never been there, but it was pretty good. We ordered mac & cheese off the kids menu for Grace and she seemed to enjoy it. We ended up being out past her bedtime though, so she didn't go to bed until 8:30 p.m. Erica and I decided to finish up wrapping the presents and in the process found that the dog had found the Hershey's Pot of Gold chocolates I had purchased for a gift for my father-in-law. I didn't think he would mess with it because it was underneath a couple other items, plus wrapped in saran wrap and in a cardboard box, but Zeus found it anyway. He ate 21 turtle chocolates. He was a sick doggy Saturday night, but is back to himself today.
I didn't sleep well last night, so again I got up around 7:30 a.m. I took all my drugs and ate some oatmeal, but it didn't help that much. Erica and Eric left around that time before Grace and Eric got up. I layed back down until around 8:30 when the rest of the family got up. I really felt sick though, so I layed back down around 10:30. Eric came in around noon and told me Grace was napping and he was going to BW3s to watch the Colts game. Grace and I both got up around 1 and ate some lunch. Then the next 3 hours were really rough. I felt really sick, but I put the baby gate up and Grace had the run of living room and kitchen while I layed on the couch. Around 4, Grace started acting tired again, so we both layed back down for an hour until Eric got home. He's been entertaining her this evening while I have been lounging on the couch. Yuck. I took some more medicine after my nap and around 6:30 finally started to feel a little better. It feels like it's wearing off though, so I'm going to try to eat something before I feel too sick. Hopefully, I'll make it through the survivor season finale tonight.
Tomorrow is Grace's birthday, so I'd like to update for her, although her party isn't until next weekend.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Follow Up
It’s been a busy week. Work has been very busy. People are starting to make sure they use me while I’m in the office. It’s nice to feel needed, but it’s hard because I have to try to get stuff done while I’m in the office, but still keep everyone else in the loop for when I’m out. In the evenings, I’ve been busy too. Monday and Tuesday I tried to study for my CPCU exam which I took yesterday afternoon. It’ll be a couple of days until I get the results, but I’m hopeful that this time I passed.
Tuesday I had another follow-up appointment at Dr. L’s office. As always I had to wait about an hour before she saw me. She checked out my incisions and said they looked good. Our next appointment will be in February and she wants me to get a mammogram and CBC prior to that appointment. It will be close to 6 months since diagnosis. I asked her about getting a follow-up CT of my lungs to check on the spot, but she said to coordinate that with Dr. Y. Since he wanted to do a MUGA scan every 3 or 4 months, I may try to schedule those together sometime in January or February. I also asked how long I’ll keep my port and again she said it will be up to Dr. Y and I. My guess is I’ll want to keep it until we’re done with Herceptin. I’m not really fond of the idea of having to find a vein every 3 weeks for treatment. There was a research assistant who caught me on my way out and wants to discuss a genetic study they are doing. He gave me the information and will try to catch me at another appointment to discuss, but they do a blood test to look for a genetic mutation. This is not the genetic testing for the BRAC1 and BRAC2 genes, but a different gene they are trying to get information on. I’ll probably do it, it’s free and only costs me a vial of blood.
Tomorrow is chemo number three. I’ve been dreading this one for some reason. Maybe because I feel like I know what to expect now. I’m also missing my holiday party for work. Bummer. The bright note is that my friend Erica and her husband are driving over tomorrow to stay for the weekend. Hopefully, I’ll feel well enough to enjoy their company. If not, at least I know they’ll keep Grace entertained while I rest. So because we’re having company tomorrow, tonight is operation clean-the-house. Eric’s volunteered to help though, so it shouldn’t take us too long.
Tuesday I had another follow-up appointment at Dr. L’s office. As always I had to wait about an hour before she saw me. She checked out my incisions and said they looked good. Our next appointment will be in February and she wants me to get a mammogram and CBC prior to that appointment. It will be close to 6 months since diagnosis. I asked her about getting a follow-up CT of my lungs to check on the spot, but she said to coordinate that with Dr. Y. Since he wanted to do a MUGA scan every 3 or 4 months, I may try to schedule those together sometime in January or February. I also asked how long I’ll keep my port and again she said it will be up to Dr. Y and I. My guess is I’ll want to keep it until we’re done with Herceptin. I’m not really fond of the idea of having to find a vein every 3 weeks for treatment. There was a research assistant who caught me on my way out and wants to discuss a genetic study they are doing. He gave me the information and will try to catch me at another appointment to discuss, but they do a blood test to look for a genetic mutation. This is not the genetic testing for the BRAC1 and BRAC2 genes, but a different gene they are trying to get information on. I’ll probably do it, it’s free and only costs me a vial of blood.
Tomorrow is chemo number three. I’ve been dreading this one for some reason. Maybe because I feel like I know what to expect now. I’m also missing my holiday party for work. Bummer. The bright note is that my friend Erica and her husband are driving over tomorrow to stay for the weekend. Hopefully, I’ll feel well enough to enjoy their company. If not, at least I know they’ll keep Grace entertained while I rest. So because we’re having company tomorrow, tonight is operation clean-the-house. Eric’s volunteered to help though, so it shouldn’t take us too long.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Random Thoughts
I don't feel like I have much to write about, but thought I should give some sort of update.
Last week went well with Eric's Dad here to help us out. He arrived very late on Tuesday night. Wednesday morning I had to go have my bloodwork done. My white counts were low and I think it's added some fatigue this week. I went to work for the rest of the day Wednesday. Thursday I worked until noon and then came home to help out. Thursday night we went out to dinner with Eric's Dad for Eric's birthday. We fed Grace off of our plates and I think she enjoyed the variety. Friday I worked until noon and then Eric's Dad headed home.
I didn't do much this weekend. I did manage to get to the stores to finish my Christmas shopping. Sunday I was on my own with Grace as Eric and Will drove over to Indianapolis for the Colts game. The tickets were my birthday present to him.
I was super busy at work today. People are starting to really take advantage of the time I'm in the office (in a good way). It makes me feel valued and hopefully it will show when performance reviews are done in the near future. I had a client lunch today which was nice. I have a conference call on Wednesday and also on Wednesday I have another CPCU exam to take. I should be studying now, but blogging sounds like more fun.
My brother made it home. He's back in Iowa as of late Saturday night. I got to talk to him on Sunday. He got a new cell phone. He (and my parents) are coming to Grace's birthday party on the 17th.
As for a cancer update:
- I mentioned my white counts were low this week. They were a little higher than my last low week, but still way down.
- I'm fatigued this week. Not really sure if it's the white count or every thing else, but this isn't my best week.
- My hair didn't finish falling out. I really thought that in the 2 week range after my last treatment that the rest of it would go. It didn't. I don't really have a preference either way. It definately got thin enough that I need a wig or other head covering, so I don't regret the buzz cut. I just think it's weird.
- I got my period. I know that's really random, but one of the side effects is stopping of menstration. I have still been mostly charting my cycles and this one was 45 days. I also know I didn't ovulate, but the fact that I had a period makes me think it might be a good sign for future fertility.
- Friday is round 3 and I'm not looking forward to it. The only good thing is that my friend Erica is coming to stay on Friday night. It will be nice to see her and she's the kind of friend that I don't mind being sick and in my sweats in front of. She's also volunteered to help me wrap Christmas presents this weekend. Yeah!
This was a boring post, but that's what's going on. Plans for tonight include trying to get my Christmas cards ready to mail and studying for my exam. I seriously better get better at this studying thing before I start classes for med school. I've got to get good grades on the pre-requisites so I can get in!
Last week went well with Eric's Dad here to help us out. He arrived very late on Tuesday night. Wednesday morning I had to go have my bloodwork done. My white counts were low and I think it's added some fatigue this week. I went to work for the rest of the day Wednesday. Thursday I worked until noon and then came home to help out. Thursday night we went out to dinner with Eric's Dad for Eric's birthday. We fed Grace off of our plates and I think she enjoyed the variety. Friday I worked until noon and then Eric's Dad headed home.
I didn't do much this weekend. I did manage to get to the stores to finish my Christmas shopping. Sunday I was on my own with Grace as Eric and Will drove over to Indianapolis for the Colts game. The tickets were my birthday present to him.
I was super busy at work today. People are starting to really take advantage of the time I'm in the office (in a good way). It makes me feel valued and hopefully it will show when performance reviews are done in the near future. I had a client lunch today which was nice. I have a conference call on Wednesday and also on Wednesday I have another CPCU exam to take. I should be studying now, but blogging sounds like more fun.
My brother made it home. He's back in Iowa as of late Saturday night. I got to talk to him on Sunday. He got a new cell phone. He (and my parents) are coming to Grace's birthday party on the 17th.
As for a cancer update:
- I mentioned my white counts were low this week. They were a little higher than my last low week, but still way down.
- I'm fatigued this week. Not really sure if it's the white count or every thing else, but this isn't my best week.
- My hair didn't finish falling out. I really thought that in the 2 week range after my last treatment that the rest of it would go. It didn't. I don't really have a preference either way. It definately got thin enough that I need a wig or other head covering, so I don't regret the buzz cut. I just think it's weird.
- I got my period. I know that's really random, but one of the side effects is stopping of menstration. I have still been mostly charting my cycles and this one was 45 days. I also know I didn't ovulate, but the fact that I had a period makes me think it might be a good sign for future fertility.
- Friday is round 3 and I'm not looking forward to it. The only good thing is that my friend Erica is coming to stay on Friday night. It will be nice to see her and she's the kind of friend that I don't mind being sick and in my sweats in front of. She's also volunteered to help me wrap Christmas presents this weekend. Yeah!
This was a boring post, but that's what's going on. Plans for tonight include trying to get my Christmas cards ready to mail and studying for my exam. I seriously better get better at this studying thing before I start classes for med school. I've got to get good grades on the pre-requisites so I can get in!
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Chicken Pox Update
Grace is doing much better now. Almost all of the pox are scabbed over and some have even disappeared. Grandpa has been great to stay with her while we've been working this week. Tomorrow I'm going to work until noon and then come home for the weekend and Grandpa will head out.
She looks much better than this now, but this was Grace at her worst taken Tuesday afternoon.
She looks much better than this now, but this was Grace at her worst taken Tuesday afternoon.
ABC's
I stole this from some friends and thought it would be fun.
•A is for age: 26
•B is for birthday: March 1 (I changed this question to better suit my readership)
•C is for career: I work for a large commercial insurance brokerage for now, hopefully a medical career in my future
•D is for your dad's name: Buddy (technically, Joseph)
•E is for essential items to bring to a party: Food!
•F is for favorite song at the moment: can't think of one at the moment. I like lots of top 40 stuff, but lean more towards hip hop
•G is for favorite game: Football to watch, Euchre to play
•H is for hometown: C'ville, Indiana
•I is for instruments you play: used to play Saxaphone
•J is for jam or jelly you like: Strawberry on Toast or Grape on PBJ
•K is for kids: 1, Grace
•L is for living arrangements: Single Family home with husband, daughter, dog and cat
•M is for mom's name: Janet
•N is for name of your crush: Vin Diesel and Eminem
•O is for overnight hospital stays: My own birth and Grace's birth
•P is for phobias: Crickets
•Q is for quotes you like: "I love lamp." "I'm riding a furry tractor." - from Anchorman
•R is for relationship that lasted the longest: Husband - 6 years and counting
•S is for sexual preference: I'm a one man kind of woman
•T is for time you wake up: Workdays – 6:30 - 7:00 am (depending on how many times I hit the snooze, Weekends: around 8:00 a.m. (depending on how long Grace will sleep)
•U is for underwear: Yes
•V is for vegetable you love: Peas or restaurant asparagus (never liked it when I've made it)
•W is for weekend plans: finish the Christmas shopping!
•X is for x-rays you've had: Foot and Teeth and full body Bone Scan - If you count CTs - Lungs, Abdomen, Pelvis, Head (Sinuses) and MRIs - Breast and Brain
•Y is for yummy food you make: German Chocolate Cake Cookies, Chicken and Noodles, Yeast Rolls
•Z is for zodiac sign: Pisces
•A is for age: 26
•B is for birthday: March 1 (I changed this question to better suit my readership)
•C is for career: I work for a large commercial insurance brokerage for now, hopefully a medical career in my future
•D is for your dad's name: Buddy (technically, Joseph)
•E is for essential items to bring to a party: Food!
•F is for favorite song at the moment: can't think of one at the moment. I like lots of top 40 stuff, but lean more towards hip hop
•G is for favorite game: Football to watch, Euchre to play
•H is for hometown: C'ville, Indiana
•I is for instruments you play: used to play Saxaphone
•J is for jam or jelly you like: Strawberry on Toast or Grape on PBJ
•K is for kids: 1, Grace
•L is for living arrangements: Single Family home with husband, daughter, dog and cat
•M is for mom's name: Janet
•N is for name of your crush: Vin Diesel and Eminem
•O is for overnight hospital stays: My own birth and Grace's birth
•P is for phobias: Crickets
•Q is for quotes you like: "I love lamp." "I'm riding a furry tractor." - from Anchorman
•R is for relationship that lasted the longest: Husband - 6 years and counting
•S is for sexual preference: I'm a one man kind of woman
•T is for time you wake up: Workdays – 6:30 - 7:00 am (depending on how many times I hit the snooze, Weekends: around 8:00 a.m. (depending on how long Grace will sleep)
•U is for underwear: Yes
•V is for vegetable you love: Peas or restaurant asparagus (never liked it when I've made it)
•W is for weekend plans: finish the Christmas shopping!
•X is for x-rays you've had: Foot and Teeth and full body Bone Scan - If you count CTs - Lungs, Abdomen, Pelvis, Head (Sinuses) and MRIs - Breast and Brain
•Y is for yummy food you make: German Chocolate Cake Cookies, Chicken and Noodles, Yeast Rolls
•Z is for zodiac sign: Pisces
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