December 10, 2024

Boy was I wrong about feeling better the other day. Last night Patrick let me take over the living room so I could go to sleep in the recliner at 8 pm. However, I hardly slept.

I ended up staying home today. I tried to nap but kept getting interrupted. Even so, I think I got about an hour nap in. Otherwise, I spent all day just resting, which was nice. I watched a couple of Christmas movies. It’s crazy how sore and tired a person can get from coughing.

I’m thankful I’m coughing less this afternoon. I’m really hoping I can sleep tonight.

December 9, 2024

I had a terrible night last night. First I kept coughing myself awake. Then about 1 am, I bolted awake because I was choking on phlegm. Ugh. Awful. Then I lay there worrying about it until I finally got up, made myself some tea, and sat in the recliner where I eventually fell asleep. When I woke again, I thought I’d go back to bed, but it was already 5 am.

I did drag myself to work. After a few coughing fits, I went home at lunchtime, though. I needed to nap but couldn’t so I hung out on the sofa with the pups. I also used boiling water to do a steam tent to help me breathe better. That helped for a bit. I can’t believe how much my back and chest hurt from so much coughing. After another coughing fit that had me throwing up, I believe tonight I’ll be back in the recliner. I’m thankful that is working for some sleep.

December 6, 2024

Dang it, I’m sick. It started with a little chest congestion yesterday and today it’s moved to my head. My throat is a bit sore. How incredibly annoying. I’m thankful it’s now and not later in the month when we have holiday plans. I’m also thankful for cranberry tea with a dash of whiskey and furry blankets.

December 3, 2024

My follow up appointment with my plastic surgeon was this morning. His office is an hour away, so I needed to take the morning off work. It was quick. He commented that my stomach looked really good (it does!) but my breasts weren’t completely symmetrical (normal). We decided that while he could do another revision, it wasn’t worth it. It’s probably as good as it gets, and I’m ok with that. In fact, the thought of having another surgery makes my stomach drop. So he said I didn’t need to see him again unless I changed my mind. Then he gave me a hug and said goodbye.

I’m thankful for an easy drive and good visit. And on my way back home, with the sun shining and good music on the radio, I felt such relief. Another part of my cancer journey officially in the rear view.

December 2, 2024

A colleague from Finland was at work today. It’s been at least two years since we have seen each other, so it was great to complain in person. He was my favorite person from that location, but unfortunately he’s gotten very fit, so I don’t think I can like him anymore. Ha! Actually, I’m happy for him and grateful he’s easy to get along with. I’m also thankful for his help putting work stress into perspective. He’s much better at letting things go than I am.

December 1, 2024

Happy December! We haven’t gotten snow yet, but I did get my snowflakes put up around our front door.

I also got the rest of the Christmas decorations up around the house, and Patrick helped me decorate the tree tonight. We had to keep the bottom of the tree a little light since Cooper keeps running under it. Little pooper.

I also got the laundry done AND my craft room cleaned up. What?! I’ve been so industrious this weekend. I’ve needed to—my craft room has been a mess since the beginning of October when I just dumped the leftovers from the Witches Market on the floor. It was driving me crazy.

I’m thankful I got everything done this weekend I had wanted to, and still had time for snuggles.