Author Archives: mclements43

April 27, 2021

Posted on by under cancer

I read this today and started thinking about what I’ve learned so far during my cancer journey. I’ve learned that while it’s not a strong suit, I do have patience when I need it. It’s been a long 5 months, but the end keeps getting closer. I haven’t been able to change this course or speed it up or deviate from it. I’ve simply had to keep going and be patient, trusting that the end will come and it will be a good one. I’m thankful for this.

When I think about the opportunities on this path, it’s a bit harder. Sure I’ve had the opportunity to think about my life in a broader sense, to reflect on the important things as any major illness will inspire and try to prioritize the important things. But I’m still looking for the opportunities that may wait. I like the idea that something random and good could come along side the bad. Life can be both at the same time.

April 26, 2021

Posted on by under Uncategorized

We were outside with the pups this evening like normal, and while I was sitting on our stone wall watching them, I also kept looking at the trees. Everything was budding and lovely. The breeze was warm, the sun was out, and I was once again thankful for the space we have and our moments in it.

April 25, 2021

Posted on by under Uncategorized

Why do weekends not last long enough? This one seemed to go by extra quick. Although I got all the typical weekend stuff done—laundry and vacuuming and mopping—fun remains on my to-do list. I’ll have to find time this week for it.

I am grateful though that the chemo side effects were mild enough this time that I only needed Tylenol once on Saturday. The rest of the weekend, I was able to endure the aches without much trouble. That’s such a huge win.

April 23, 2021

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I’m also about that much more tired too. Haha.

Today I’m thankful for the following:

Phone calls from my mom and my father

Finishing a gift card from a good friend for a yummy dinner

First vaccine doses for a couple family members

Making it for walks in the neighborhood all week

Friday!!

April 22, 2021

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Work has been hard lately. Frustrating. And not because of my illness. There have simply a lot of changes that have made it less enjoyable and rewarding.

Today I’m thankful, though, for supportive colleagues; those who listen and offer advice, those who make me laugh, those who send get well messages. I’m grateful to work with some good people.

April 21, 2021

Posted on by under cancer
Clear heels!

Only 4 more treatments to go! Yay! I wore my storage unit wig today and even put on fake eyelashes. It’s weird not having eyelashes and eyebrows anymore. My face feels so bare. But the fake lashes looked awkward without actual lashes too. Oh well. I’ll keep trying.

I’ve started getting neuropathy after last week’s treatment. I had been feeling it off and on previously, but it’s definitely more often now. My nurse asked about side effects, so I told her about it. Since my oncologist was out today, she had the doctor on call talk to me about it before starting treatment. We decided it’s still mild enough not to change anything. However, if it gets worse, they may need to lower my dose again. Fingers crossed it holds off. Since my dose was already lowered, I’d really like to get through the next four without changing it.

I’m thankful things are still going well overall. I’m grateful for the sunshine today even though it was cold again. I’m happy to be so close to the finish line.

April 19, 2021

Posted on by under Uncategorized

I’m grateful today for music. I was feeling wiped after work, but I wanted to work on the wreaths I didn’t finish over the weekend. So when I went to my craft room, I streamed something not my norm. I put on Michael Bublé, and it reminded me of the time years ago that I saw him in concert. To this day, it’s one of my favorite concerts ever—and I’m normally a rock music girl. But the concert and the night out with one of my best girlfriends at the time was memorable and so much fun.

I love how music can energize and transport us to a memory so easily. When I lived alone, music was my go-to over the television. Of course, that’s when I could sing and dance with abandon as well without anyone seeing and judging me. These days I have to wait for Patrick to leave the house, and even then the dogs give me side eye. Oh well, I love music and today I’m thankful for it in my craft room.

April 18, 2021

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Barley looks like I do around 4:00 every day now. Haha!

After getting a latte this morning and running a couple of errands before the stores got crowded, I spent a lot of my day in my craft room. I ended up making several spring wreaths that I’ll post on my Facebook page to sell (hopefully!). At one point, I “shopped” out of my storage unit for some florals that I knew I had there and found a wig that I had gotten for a mannequin. Its actually kind of ok, so I think I’m going to wear it this week. I’m thankful for another productive and good day!