May 31, 2015. Harper, Texas. Friends and Neighbors.

Having friends as well as neighbors is a great blessing. One of the best aspect of living in Nova Scotia is that friends live beside us as neighbors. I like it. We have the same situation at the ranch. Last evening, Robbie came to pick us up to take us to their home for dinner, which is just down the road. He had stopped over first thing in the morning to invite us. They thought we needed a bit of an excursion, which we did. As usual, Joyce cooked a wonderful meal and we enjoyed the food and the conversation. It was the first time we had been to their home since their little dog Beau died. We missed him. Three years ago when Joyce's sister died,, her little dog Beau had no one to look after him, so Joyce and Robbie took Beau into their home and gave him their love. Beau was a fine little dog, and they miss Beau. Robbie does not watch hockey but he knew there was a game on TV so right after dinner he turned it on. It was the most fun because Robbie asked all the questions that most Canadians already know. He wanted to know about the hitting. He could not figure out what was legal. And he did not understand the off side rule or icing the puck. He was also not a bit interested in cheering for Chicago. He brought us home after the one period as we were weary but he told us he would watch to the end. We did not speak to him today, but he must have been disappointed because Chicago won the game. Maybe he will become a new fan, deep in the heart of Texas. Now neighbors who are friends is one thing, but when they also become hockey fans, Ken and I will be in seventh heaven.

May 30, 2015. Harper, Texas. A Foolish Lady.

She will make everyone who knows her miserable, but I was on my best behaviour, and did not say a word. The other day in the waiting room of the office of the Oncologist, I was sitting right opposite three ladies. One looked angry and the other two were pleasant looking. This waiting room is used for people who have checked in and are waiting for the lab or for treatment or to see the doctor. Also family and friends wait in the same area. My habit in waiting rooms is to look and eves drop but not talk. I bury my head in a magazine or my phone. This lady looked miserable. And she also looked white which means she was probably sick. It was clear from looking at her that she was not enjoying sitting in that waiting room. I kept thinking to myself and wondering how she thought about all the rest of us? And did she think she was helping her situation by being miserable? In fact, she was doing the opposite. I am told that being positive is a big factor in the success of your immune system. Her hair was long and straight and salt and pepper color. Perhaps she is angry that she will soon no longer have her lovely hair. She was a foolish lady, sitting in the waiting room last week. I wonder if she ever changes her attitude? I will watch for her in the waiting room over the next few weeks.

May 29, 2015. Harper, Texas. The Test.

Next week I will find the results of the test, when I meet with Dr. Stotz but until then, I must agree that that test was weird. I do not know if this was an old time test or if it is new but it was just weird. When Ken first saw the Neurologist, he mentioned that my legs were having problems so Dr. Stotz, our Neurologist who we like, suggested that he see me which he did. At that time, he suggested that I do a test in their office that checks the nerves and the connection of the nerves with the muscles. So I agreed. I lay on an examining table, and one of Dr. Stotz's sons Ronnie administered the test. He tests my arms, hands, legs and feet. He stimulated a spot and my muscles react and jump all over the place. For someone like me who likes to be in charge this is not a test I like, because I have no control as to when my muscles jerk. Eventually, the test ended. During the test, which takes over an hour, Ronnie and I talked. First we talk about me and where we live. He did comment that he would never want to live in Maryland due to the taxes and the business taxes. Then I ask him about his family and I discover he and his wife have 8 children. What fun. His comment to me was "What were we thinking?" His oldest child is in her second year of College in Texas while his youngest is 4 years old. He has a lot of college tuitions before he is finished. His wife teaches 8th grade at school too so she is a busy lady. The best part of the test was talking to Ronnie. Now next week I will have a meeting to evaluate my nerves and muscles and hope there is something that I can do to help my situation. I do not enjoy walking on sponges. And I am certainly not going to take that weird test again.

May 28, 2015. Harper, Texas. Hockey Playoffs.

This year, the four teams left in the Stanley Cup Playoffs are all excellent. Ken commented the other evening that he had never seen such sustained, high quality play ever in his life. Even if a person was not a hockey fan, it would be worth watching some games just to see the expertise and skill on display. Both series are going to the 7th game, which is the first time in years that both the western and eastern championships are going to the full series. Ken and I have watched at least a part of every game and have thoroughly enjoyed them. The coaches are clever and imaginative and the players work hard. Some years, teams just get lucky and win a series and get into the semi finals with not much left to work with. But these four teams are all excellent teams in their different ways and deserve to be fighting for their league championships. Tomorrow evening, New York Rangers will play the Tampa Bay Lightning in their 7th game. An added interest to me is the coach of the Lightning. He is young and coaching in the NHL playoffs but he has not played a minute as a player in the NHL. This a first. During one early series, Ken and I were watching Detroit beat Tampa Bay and finally went to bed, knowing full well that Detroit would win that game and then go on to win the series. But we were wrong. The next morning, we discovered that Tampa Bay won that game and then went on to win the series. Now we will find out if they are up to one more game before they finally get to play in the Stanley Cup Championship. On Saturday, The Chicago Blackhawks will play the Anaheim Ducks in their 7th game. No telling how the game will turn out. I love to watch the Chicago style. Their team is fast and quick and clever. But I suspect that the Ducks will not be denied. I wonder what the Canadian fans will think if a California team plays a Florida team for the Stanley Cup. We might find out!!

May 27, 2015. Harper, Texas. Simple Pleasures.

Every time I go up or down the stairs at the Top House it brings me pleasure. I stole the idea from Dave and Irene. When Dave was coming home after his surgery, Irene installed a second rail on their stairs, to allow Dave to go from one floor to another. They live in a lovely three story home so they installed the extra railing, and kept a walker on every floor. Problem solved. When we arrived at the ranch, I could see that using the stairs was dangerous for me, so Lorin, the builder, installed the second rail while we were at the lake. Now I feel secure going up and down. And I can move more quickly. Using stairs is a good form of exercise so I am pleased that I can use them safely. Another simple pleasure was my results at the doctor's appointment. We had a full day yesterday and I had driven from the lake, but by my appointment at 4:00 I was feeling good so I was joking with the nurse about how healthy I was looking. I had good color and energy, even after a full active day. As she was drawing blood, we speculated as to whether or not my blood counts were high enough to proceed with the new medications. We both agreed that they would be high enough and we were right. We both laughed. The numbers were not normal but were high enough to proceed with the Ibrance. Simple pleasure to get the numbers high enough to proceed with my treatment. My life has certainly changed when the pleasures of my life are the extra railing and the higher blood count. The good part of my life is that I do have many simple pleasures and for that I am grateful. The pleasures are just different!!

May 26, 2015. Harper, Texas. Surprise Dinner.

After we finished our appointments this afternoon, Ken found that his new glasses were ready, so we immediately drove to the Optician. While Ken was getting fitted, I stayed in the truck, then got out to do some exercises. Much to my surprise, I discovered I had been sitting in front of a Japanese restaurant, so I went in to check it out. By the time Ken came out, I had decided that we needed an early dinner at this restaurant. Now that we are spending more time in Fredericksburg, we are discovering the restaurants not used by tourists. This is one of them. As we were eating, we observed the local folks come in for a drink. There was a big bar scene, full of folks who live in Fredericksburg who stop for a drink on their way home from work. Our meal was delightful, except they serve portions that are too large, so we over ordered. But now we have two boxes of food to enjoy tomorrow. The restaurant is one block off the main street and is called E. You would never stop in to dine had you not known about it. But it is fancy, perhaps the top of the heap in Fredericksburg. It is always a pleasant surprise to discover a new restaurant. Of course, everyone else already knows about it. By the time we left, the place was full. It was new for us. We enjoyed it thoroughly.

May 25, 2015. Canyon Lake, Texas. Silence is Not Sweet.

The silence in the house is deafening, since David and Suzanne, Sarah, Abigail, Allison and Samantha have left the lake to return to San Antonio. It made me wish we had also headed up the highway for the ranch, where at least we are used to being alone and quiet. But we had a wonderful weekend, all together. At least, Ken and I did and everyone else seemed happy. I stationed myself in the main room where the kitchen, dining room and living room are all just one big room. One of the decks leads right from that room too so we moved from eating to watching to talking, all day long. Eventually, everyone comes to sit and chat with me as all the food is there. Normally, the lake is a busy place. The girls take excursions on the 2 jet ski's and they visit friends to play basketball. But this weekend, the jet boats could only be used on Saturday morning and a bit of Sunday afternoon. Today the lake was closed. This was a wonderful weekend for sleeping in and reading and talking, which was perfect for me. Suzanne brought all the food for the weekend while I did nothing, except for peaches from Stonewall. Suzanne made several batches of the peaches, in the freezer, all ready to make peach cobbler. Ken and I enjoyed our weekend at the lake with our Texas family. All of them are energetic, spirited and helpful. It was a great pleasure to spend the weekend with them. Tomorrow morning we return to Fredericksburg. Both Ken and I have yet more doctor appointments but we return refreshed in body and mind.

May 24, 2015. Canyon Lake, Texas. The Lake.

The Corps of Engineers built a dam on the Guadalupe River, forming Canyon Lake. This was in the late 60's. The Corps still maintains the lake and for the most part, they do a good job. Ten years ago, they misjudged the amount of water going through the dam and the houses flooded down river, which was not a good thing. Right now we have another interesting situation. The water going down the river is over flood stage and the Corps will not release more water, so the water level in the lake is rising one feet per hour. It has been fascinating to watch. As of 4:00, the water level has gone up six feet since noon. During the last flood, the water got so high that our shed was covered with water and our horse shoe pit was under water. This afternoon the weather was wonderful and we sat on the deck and watched the lake go up and up and up. The Corps has committed not to flood down river again, so the lake will continue to rise. The forecast next week is for rain every day so no telling how high the lake will rise. For the past several years we have had a small lake, with one summer our cove non existent. But now the lake is full and getting bigger by the minute. A platform several houses along from us was 15 feet from the water. Right now, the water is lapping at the top. If you did not see it happening, you would never believe it. David went out on the Pokeboat this morning. One of the interesting things he saw was a floating pod of ants. The ants had been ousted from their home and they bundled the eggs into the center of the mass of ants and they were floating until they found dry ground, all the while protecting their eggs. None of us had ever seen this behavior. Fascinating, and clever. The twins noticed the same thing when on the jet ski with Abigail. Right across from us is a gazebo that is about to have the water covering the sides a feet or two. I wonder if by morning that gazebo will be under water. You just never know what will happen, here at Canyon Lake.

May 23, 2015. Canyon Lake, Texas. Storms.

Even Texas people are sick of the rain. The lake is full. The water level is higher than we have seen in years, which makes everyone happy, except that the rains keep coming, and as this is Memorial weekend, everyone really wants the rain to stop. Friday night it rained. Starting at noon on Saturday, a succession of storms moved across the lake bring thunder and rain and wind. Where I sat on the couch, I could see the storms approaching. Then the storm would sweep across the lake, then subside. In the distance I could always see the light sky in the distance. But not for long. Soon another storm would arrive bringing more rain and wind. And it never stopped all day and night. A large storm swept across when we were watching the hockey game. The TV and the Internet disappeared. I felt sure the electricity would cease so I quickly put on my nightshirt and went to bed. I did not wish to be stranded in the office in the pitch black. The rain came down like cats and dogs, whatever that is. And it did not stop until 6:00 this morning. I had two flash flood warnings on my phone during the night. Fortunately, Suzanne, Sarah and Abigail made it home safely. They attended the school graduation last evening. Normally, the ceremony is held outside but of course, the rains drove them inside to the chapel. Unfortunately, they lost electricity. I have yet to find out how they managed. Today, the day is overcast. David is out in the Pokeboat getting some exercise. His ski boat moved across the cove during the storm last night. It had been pulled high up the shore. But the rain came and the wind blew. Fortunately, all is safe and sound. Big storms come to Texas. Now the good people of Texas are ready for sunshine.

May 22, 2015. Canyon Lake, Texas. Family.

There is nothing better than spending time with your family. Ken and I have been keeping ourselves isolated at the ranch, staying away from people and trying to avoid an infection. Our system haws worked but today we came to the lake to spend the Memorial Day weekend at the lake with the family. We are having a good time. And it is not only psychological. Being with family has many practical advantages. I have not needed the walker since they arrived because someone is always close by to provide me a strong arm. And the girls bring me water and they help me up and down the stairs. David and the twins arrived first so helped unload our truck. And they brought dinner too, picked up at a good Italian restaurant in Startsville. We have not only company but food. Always a good combination. Right now, Ken, David and Allison are watching hockey in the office. Suzanne and Samantha are playing a game at the dining room table. Abigail is watching a movie on a computer while Sarah is having a nap on the couch. Nothing fancy. Just very pleasant. Our weekend at the lake is starting out to be a delight.

May 21, 2015. Harper, Texas. Reality.

A cold wet dose of reality is always a good thing. Our favorite Neurologist, the good Dr. Stotz, delivered a dose to me yesterday. He was asking me about pain medication, so I told him that I had been taking Iboprofen every four hours around the clock, until Ken suggested that I should use Tylenol during the night. I further told him that the Internist suggested that I was taking too much of both, as there were side effects from both. Evidently Iboprofen tears up your stomach and Tylenol does damage to the liver. So the good doctor, the young Internist, prescribed me pain pills with codine, in small dose, to be used on an as needed basis. The problem with this new pain medication is the constipation so he suggested two other medications to counter the constipation. Dr. Stotz just laughed. Now the Internist is young and Dr. Stotz has been in business for a long time. His two sons work with him now, one as another Neurologist and the other doing all the testing, so he is not old, but he is not young. He asked me what type of the pain medication seemed to work well for me. When I told him the Iboprofen, he suggested that I use it. "Often the side effects will only be apparent for years," said Dr. Stotz, so he suggested I use whatever I felt using. What he was really saying, was that my dire disease will end my life long before the side effects kick in. It certainly made sense to me so I am taking whatever I need at the time. Actually, in the early months of the diagnosis and treatment, I was taking the anti nausea pills and the Oboprofen regularly, but now I do not keep a chart nor track the hours. I don't know if the cancer has left parts of the bones or whether or not I am accustomed to the feel of the bones. Anyway, reality is always a good reminder.

May 20, 2015. Harper, Texas. Update.

Today was another day full of appointments for me. While I visited the good doctors, Ken visited the grocery store and pharmacy so the day was productive. And on the way home we ate lunch at The Longhorn Cafe, which is always a pleasure. We left home at 8:00 so by the time we arrived home at 2:30, I was weary and promptly took a 2 hour nap. The day was interesting. The Oncologist, after looking at the numbers for my blood, suggested we delay the start of the second round of the new medicine while my body builds itself back up. Every important blood count was low. Next Tuesday, my blood will be checked again and we hope the medicine will resume. I am to take the other and older medicine, Letrozole, but the Ibrance will await another week. Also, I must have my blood checked every week, until we leave for Nova Scotia. The first appointment today was with the Neurologist, the same doctor who treated me when I lost my words and the one who is caring for Ken now that Ken has symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. He did a work up on me and decided that Yes, I had neuropothy and also weakness in my legs. My arms seemed fine except for the neuropothy.. So he suggested small ten minute bites of exercise taken during the day. Nothing strenuous or long lasting, but frequent. He also suggest I take a couple of dietary enhancements, which I have done. Next I will get tested to see what nerves are working and what is not. As I have said before, there are always more appointments. That is the update for the day. The storm knocked out the internet last night, right in the midst of posting this wee web log, but now all is well in the Hill Country, so here is the Update.

May 19, 2015. Harper, Texas. Loading The Truck.

If it was not so funny, the whole scene would be pitiful. Ken and I must improvise as there are lots of activities that we are unable to accomplish, such as carrying anything in both hands. And I certainly can not carry anything down any steps. So we have a system when loading the truck, using the two walkers. We use the seat part of the walker to carry any object. Ken stands beside the truck, which we have moved to be directly beside the porch, and I push the walker close to the truck. Ken lifts the objects from the walker and puts them into the truck, while I return to the house to load up the next walker. The process is slow and cumbersome but does get the job done. When Ken first was diagnosed with symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, I began loading the truck and all was well, until last fall when my pleural effusion rendered me so short of breath that loading the truck took four times as long as before. Of course, my competence has gotten worse so we were forced to improvise. The best part is that the tasks do get done, but very slowly. And the whole scene looks ridiculous. But we don't care how we look. We just keep pecking away at the tasks. And we laugh a lot too. I must admit that Ken swears a bit too!!

May 18, 2015. Harper, Texas. A Kindly Deed.

Mostly I am cold, even if it is hot, so I have taken to wearing my vest. The vest is old and too big but I like it because I can put a jacket under the vest. The vest is red with the lining a dark gray fleece. The item of clothing is not gorgeous but it stays at the ranch and has been useful over the years. I often wear it in the car so when we went to Fredericksburg last week I wore it in the car. When we checked into the motel, I hung the vest in the closet as it had been raining. This morning, we were again driving into town and looked for my vest. I realized that I must have left my vest at the motel, so after our errands were completed, we drove to The Comfort Inn to see if they keep objects that are lost, even if they are ugly. As I walked into the lobby, the man behind the counter picked up my vest and handed it to me, and said, " I knew you would come back for it". Our name was attached to the vest with our room number. I thanked him for keeping track of the vest and for setting it aside until we appeared. For sure, this kindly deed will mean we will always stay at The Comfort Inn when staying overnight in Fredericksburg. By now, they call us by name and they always give us the room with all the hand grips in the shower. It has everything we need in a motel even though it costs only $75. A clean room and big towels along with kindly deeds will get our attention for sure.

May 17, 2015. Harper, Texas. A Big Storm.

The middle of the night is the best time to have a big storm, especially when tucked into a cosy bed in your sturdy little house on the hill. Last night the winds were fierce. There is always a wind at the Top House but last night the winds were the loudest I have ever heard. The porches made it seem like the wind was shrieking. Then came the torrential rain which added to the general din. Next came the thunder and lightning, first as the storm came toward us, then as it drifted away. Every so often the storm would subside but soon it came back but with greater ferocity. With windows on both sides of the house, I could watch the storm coming and going. Most of the time, I would have been asleep but last night I saw and heard the whole storm. It was exciting. In our early years, Ken and I did a lot of camping. It was the only way we could afford to travel. I can recall many storms we survived in our tent. One night when camping in Cape Breton, a hurricane blew in and our center pole snapped. For the rest of the night the tent would billow out, then crash around our ears. We were happy to see daylight. I was grateful last night that we were not camping and that we were both warm and cosy in our bedroom. Getting old has advantages!!

May 16, 2015. Harper, Texas. Good Fortune.

Ambition is a wonderful thing. Ken and I had ambition bred in our bones. I have no idea where it came from. It was always just there. But on the other hand, and paradoxically, we have never wanted things we could not afford. Dave and Irene helped us get our early dreams but our very good fortune was to not pine after objects or activities we could not afford. It never crossed our minds. Our plan was always to make the plan that we wanted to do that was included in our budget of the time. Our object was to figure out what we wanted to do but always in the constraints of our meager cash. We paid no attention to what we could not do, just what we were able to do at any given time. Our Salvation Army background probably helped us in that attitude, and it has served us well in the aging process too. Ken and I laugh about it but that attitude is getting more difficult, especially with the number of activities limiting both of our activities. But we still try. Ken talks about what he is able to accomplish now, even though it may take him 4 times as long, he is still able to get things done. My activities have been limited the past several months but I never discuss what I am not able to do but only what I can get done right now. I over hear seniors complaining about what they can not do any more. It is a foolish attitude and only makes them feel bad. We had the good fortune to learn young to only pay attention to what we could do but not what we were not able to accomplish due to ability or funds. It has been our great good fortune in the past and works for us in the present.

May 15, 2015. Harper, Texas. Marilyn and Richard.

I am rich with my friends. Marilyn and Richard are two of those treasured friends. Today they came from Houston to spend the day with us at the ranch. They brought lunch, Texas Barbecue, and they unloaded the dishwasher and loaded it up again. They looked after the whole kitchen. And we talked, catching up on the past few months and learning the parts of my situation that I don't put into my blog. In other words, we had fun talking and eating. By mid afternoon, they headed back to Houston while I took a nap. For some reason, I was not at my best and I don't know why. I stood up after lunch and needed Richard's strong arm to get me back to the couch. I actually thought I might faint, which would be the first for me. Ken and I were friends with Marilyn in Galveston when our children were small. Ken was a Fellow and Marilyn a Resident. We have been friends ever since but we have been long distance friends. Richard we met on our horse back riding trip in Alberta. They are good at visiting us and we are both skilled at keeping in touch. Until this summer, they have always spent summers in Colorado but that is finished now, so I was trying to convince them to spend August in Nova Scotia, where it is certainly not as hot as Houston. We will see if they appear. We hope they will come as the same people who live along the shore with us were also on the horse back riding trip. Both Ken and I enjoyed their visit. Now we look forward to our next visit which will be in Nova Scotia or in Texas, when we return in September. I hope to be in better condition during the next visit.

May 14, 2015. Harper, Texas. The Dollar Store.

This is a big deal. In Harper, Texas, we now have a Dollar Store. We stopped to shop for the first time this afternoon. Well, to tell the truth, Ken went in to shop while I stayed in the truck. Too many people for me to mix and mingle with to chance catching infection. He was delighted with the size and the variety of items for sale. Once upon a time, Harper was a thriving community but as transportation got easier, the smaller towns began to shrink. Now there are more stores closed than open but the schools are excellent and many people live on the back roads so in total, the population in the county has not shrunk. But Harper is but a shadow of it's former self. It is holding it's own. The Longhorn Cafe is always full and the Library resale shop is the place for bargains. The only bank is the best bank, according to Robbie and Joyce, and they encourage us to open an account. The feed store was recently purchased and is thriving and the gas station and grocery store has lots of customers. Perhaps with the Dollar Store thriving, more businesses will open too. It was the talk of the town when the sign was first installed telling that The Dollar General Store was coming to town. Now we hope it will be successful. We like new businesses in town.

May 13, 2013. Fredericksburg, Texas. Rain and Storms.

Only once were we forced to drive through flooding water and that was right in town. The forecast was for thunderstorms and heavy rain both Wednesday and Thursday so we decided to stay overnight in Fredericksburg. All night it rained so we thought that we might have difficulty getting to town this morning but we had no difficulty. The back roads have dips to allow the water to run off which means sometimes you drive through water, but not this morning. We are pleased with our decision because it is still raining. The waiting room was full of conversations about the rain. Everyone was delighted. Now the good folks in the Hill Country want a good rain with a massive run off in order to fill up the tanks and the lakes. They understand they are getting greedy but they all agreed that there had been no flooding for over 15 years, so it was time. My appointment today was to have my blood checked, so John did his excellent task of withdrawing blood from me in the Oncologists office. He does a fine job. This Oncologist wants you to await the results and then have a brief consultation of the results with one of the nurses. For me, my numbers were down from last week so she told me to be extreme;y careful with contacting infections, which I already do and to come into the hospital if I see any bleeding. Now I have a week with no medication except the hormone and hope my body will recover the cells. I see the Oncologist next Wednesday to begin the second bout of the new medication. We hope it is doing the job. I certainly have a bunch of side effects!!

May 12, 2015. Harper, Texas. The Ranch.

David and Ken had a conversation about the ranch the night we were in San Antonio staying with them. They both agreed that we should sell the ranch and buy a place closer to them in the city. It sounded reasonable as the ranch is remote and we have few folks close to us who can help. After a couple of days at the ranch, Ken had changed his mind. He likes it here and does not really like cities. In fact, pollution in the cities is difficult for his breathing. We also realized that we have folks that can help us too. When we arrived on Saturday, the air conditioning fan was not working. Pat came over on Sunday evening to find out what was the matter, so by Monday morning he could order the part. And we decided to make some safety features installed in the Top House where we live so Loren came immediately at the end of his day to measure for the supplies. He is willing to help with anything we are not able to get done, such as change light bulbs, so the maintenance of the houses are covered. Our neighbors are helpful too. Of course, Robbie and Joyce help us in many different ways. Two years ago, a family has purchased the ranch immediately adjacent to us who have been wonderful. Three generations life on the ranch. The older folks are our age and live in a lovely apartment they made in part of the huge shed. The younger couple, the son and his wife, are in their mid 40's and have two teen aged children. They are energetic and enthusiastic. When we arrived, I called both couples to tell them we had arrived. Matt and Kristy came over the next day to say hello and to offer support. They had been told by Joyce and Robbie that we were not at our best. This afternoon, I called Matt in error. When he could not get me back on the phone, he drove over to be sure I was OK which was reassuring to me. With good workers and helpful neighbors I believe we can survive at the ranch.

May 11, 2015. Harper, Texas. Monday Wash Day.

My Mother always washed clothes on Monday. Everybody did. It was like a rule. My life allows me to do laundry any day of the week but mostly I like to do laundry on Monday too and I don't know why. Perhaps it is a bit of nostalgia. Today I also changed the sheets and took off the flannel sheets, even though the temperature dropped today. I love flannel sheets but soon it it will be like summer here at the ranch and it is time to get rid of my cosy flannel sheets. This dire disease leaves me cold most of the time, so I love my flannel sheets but the time has come. So today I pretended I was in the mid 20th century and I changed the sheets and did all the laundry. For me it was a full time job. Robbie came over this morning at 10:00 and could not rouse us. Ken was at the computer and I was doing laundry so I guess it was noisy upstairs. He thought we were still in bed. Not so, although I must admit that I have been wearing my night shirt and housecoat all day. Decadence rules. During my months of treatment, I have been able to keep up with the minor tasks at home. I have always been able to complete the laundry although Ken has had to fold the clothes a few times. And with Christina's help. I have changed the bed. I have done little cooking but often moves food around from the fridge to the plate. Ken organizes most of our meals. And I still nap once or twice a day as I am still not supposed to get tired. Monday is wash day still in our family but often I do laundry other days as well. But it is only on Monday that I am reminded of my Mother, which is probably I like to do laundry on Monday.

May 10, 2015. Harper, Texas. Texas Wildflowers.

Every year we are surprised with their beauty and simplicity. Both side of the highways large and small are covered with wildflowers. And I mean covered. Some fields are filled too. The sights are unbelievable. Rumor has it that one of the workmen suggested planting wildflowers on the highways as a way to cut down on the expense of mowing the grass, so the department tried it and Lady Bird took up the cause and soon there were flowers everywhere. I don't really know how it all happened but I am certainly pleased with the results. The problem is the timing. I can not tell you to travel to Texas on a specific date in order to see the blossoms. Many factors contribute to the blooms, especially the heat and the rain. In DC, we often had the cherry blossoms and then we had the Cherry Blossom Festival, but often not on the same date. This year marked a red letter day with both appearing on the same date. But not in Texas. Parts of the Hill Country blossoms come late as the elevation is higher. The famous bluebonnets are finished outside of San Antonio while in the Hill Country they are just opening and are marvelous. But the blossoms are always beautiful and always come as a surprise. Journeying to Texas in the Spring is well worth a visit if only for the wildflowers.

May 9, 2015. Harper, Texas. Coffee.

This afternoon, Santa Claus walked through our door at the Top House. First came freezers full of food, followed by shopping bags of groceries. At the end was my Mother's Day gift. which was a single cup coffee maker. I was thrilled with everything, especially the fact that David had done all the shopping himself. We now have enough food to last our whole stay in Texas. Yesterday was the first day since I started my treatments that I was able to drink coffee. In Mexico, I tried to drink a small portion but eventually drank only tea. Every morning either Doreen or Rita would make me a cup of tea which I enjoyed so I have continues the practice, until yesterday and today. Having a new coffee maker will be perfect. The first evening in Mississippi, Wendy was getting organized for breakfast the next morning. We could find everything except coffee, which of course was not acceptable, as Wendy needs her morning coffee. I knew the coffee would be in a box marked pantry. Of course, she found the coffee in the very last box. During the search, we talked about drinking coffee. Both Wendy and I knew we were pregnant when we could not drink coffee. It was just sickening to us. And after the first treatment, I could not swallow coffee. Perhaps now that I have had two days of drinking at least a small amount of coffee it means I am getting better. Tea is not nauseating but coffee does. Interesting. Now I will enjoy my fancy single service coffee maker brought by David and give thanks for Santa Clause.

May 8, 2015. Harper, Texas. Neuropothy Nose.

I have a neuropothy nose. It drips all the time and I never know. I am sure it is not a pretty sight. Ken hands me a tissue without saying a word and I know I am supposed to wipe the drip from the end of my nose. A sense of humor is essential. I keep a tissue in the pocket of my shirt, which is the closest place to my nose and I keep wiping my nose but if I am distracted or concentrate on something, soon that drip lands on my magazine or on my plate. You have to laugh. The problem is the medication. My finger and toes, legs and arms are full of pins and needles. And they feel spongy too, which is why I am unstable. Even my face and scalp feel odd. As the chemotherapy continues, so does the neuropothy. My nose is the most obvious sign other than I walk with a walker. Just this moment, a drop landed on the desk, fortunately not on the keyboard. Ken has lots of symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, which includes excessive drooling from his mouth. We both laugh about it. With Ken drooling from his mouth and me dripping from my nose we are quite a sight. But we are still walking and talking along with the drooling and dripping. It could be worse. We might have lost our sense of humor!!

May 7, 2015. Harper, Texas. New Oncologist.

Yesterday I met my new Texas Oncologist. While sitting quietly in the waiting room, I was reassured with my choice. Selecting a new doctor is not easy, especially as I am using a brand new medication, so I was somewhat apprehensive, until the good folks in the waiting room began to sing the praises of Dr. DeLeon. Two groups were talking to each other. I could not see them but I was listening. One came from Boerne, just outside San Antonio. They interviewed the Cancer Center at the University of Texas in San Antonio. Evidently it is common to determine your choice of cancer centers. The San Antonio group asked where the patient was considering for treatment. When she said Dr. DeLeon in Fredericksburg they just laughed, and said that they tried very hard to get him to come to San Antonio but he would not leave Fredericksburg. The other folks were from Mason, which is further north in the Hill Country and who has their own Cancer Center. But they come to see and be treated by Dr. DeLeon. I liked him. He had obviously reviewed my history and treatment and was well aware of the new medication. He also told me that side effects seem to be accumulative which no Oncologist has ever told me. My blood work showed that my body is tolerating the new medicine but he will check my blood in a week to be sure. And we discussed my taking the medication with me to Canada as the drug is not yet approved. So the good doctor was everything I needed and wanted in my new Oncologist. This was a big relief. One of his nurses contacted me today to let me know that the medication I need will be sent to the office and I will pick it up to take with me to Canada. So he is not only well informed but also has an efficient staff. Once again, I have been fortunate with Oncologists.

May 6, 2015. Harper, Texas. Loren B.

Loren and his father built the ranch house in 1980. The house was designed by the owner, Mr. O'Sullivan, with no input from his wife so the plan was peculiar, but solidly built. At settlement,when we bought the ranch, we discovered that Loren was still a builder so we hired him to make minor changes and add a screen porch. He also painted the whole interior of the house. He did good work and we got to be good friends with both him and his wife. Naturally, we asked him to build the Top House, which he did. He is an old fashioned German builder. There are lots of them in the Hill Country. They work slowly and precisely. No slap dash in his work life. Ken and I had dinner with Loren and his wife several times over the years but we had not seen him for almost two years. One day after work, and just after Loren had completed all the extensive renovations to his wife's grandparents home outside of Fredericksburg where they were living, he was informed that his wife of 40 years wanted a divorce. He was stunned and very angry. And he stayed angry all through the divorce proceedings. He had no idea what was coming at him and we had no need of his services so we had not spoken to him for almost two years. He said he did not attend our 55th because he was angry and did not feel sociable. We need a second railing installed on the stairs plus grab bars put into the shower, so I called him and he quickly came out to measure after work. Both Ken and I were delighted to see him. He looks great, with his new beard and a bit of extra weight adding dignity to this good builder. Along with us, he has gone through a bit of a rough spot but we were pleased to see he seems content and busy. He is a fine worker and we wish him all best wishes.

May 5, 2015. Fredericksburg, Texas. The Halt and The Lame.

Ken and I decided to avoid the drive back to the ranch today but to stay in one of the many motels for the night in Fredericksburg. We both had appointments with our Internist this afternoon and tomorrow I have an appointment with the new Oncologist in the morning. We have had a pleasant afternoon and evening. The Comfort Inn welcomed us with fresh baked cookies and bottles of water. Ken and I ate two cookies each. But I had to laugh when we arrived. We each brought our walker. We were quite a sight unloading the truck, and then using the walker to carry our stuff. Of course I wear my bright pink scrub hat which always attracts lots of looks. But we just kept our head up and said not a word to anyone. After a bit of a rest, we went out to an early dinner to Andy's, an old diner . Food was good and the waiter charming. Next on our list was a visit to the drug store. The Internist thinks I am using too much Iboprofin and Tylenol so he has given me a prescription for a pain killer that contains codine. And Ken has a long list of items from Walgreens too so after dinner we enjoyed the quiet of the drug store while we went down our lists. Now we are at our temporary home at The Comfort Inn, where we are watching the hockey game. And we will enjoy the neat and tidy room. Tomorrow we will be back at the ranch but tonight we are on vacation, even though we are part of the lame and the halt!!

May 4, 2015. Harper, Texas. The Doctors.

One appointment always leads to another. Ken met Dr. Stotz this morning and by the time we left, Ken had appointments with an orthopedic doctor and an eye doctor, while I made an hour's appointment with the Neurologist, the same Dr. Stotz who looked after me when I lost my words. He thinks that the Oncologists know much about the disease but little about the side effects, so he wishes to evaluate me to see what can be done with my stability and balance. He could see clearly that I was not at my best so he wants to try and help. These appointments are like rabbits in that they just grow and multiply. We will stay at the ranch all of May and not return to the lake or to San Antonio as we normally would do. Too much driving right now. The appointment today was at 10:00 but when we arrived at his office Ken noted the sign on the door that he had moved his office, so it turned out that we were late. After I walked using my walker, I sat on their porch in the fancy seat on my walker. While I sat and watched, a lady came by to tend the plants so we chatted. She was the wife of Dr. Stotz . I asked her all about their new office, which is lovely. The office is actually an old house that they restored and painted a light lilac with white trim. Inside they have 4 times the space of their old office, which is a good thing as their son is entering practice with the father. He has just completed his training and examinations. And they all live within walking distance from the office. So it was a happy conversation especially when a bird flew out of the fern when she was watering the plant. Evidently the bird has a nest in the fern. But the best part of the day was the wild flowers. They were everywhere. We even saw whole fields of bluebonnets. Amazing sight and certainly worth the drive into town.

May 3, 2015. Harper, Texas. The Fall.

I knew that eventually one of us would fall to the ground because we are both unstable. Ken fell in the kitchen of our new house in Mississippi but he fell against the refrigerator so he only got a big bruise. And Wonderful Wendy was right beside him to keep him upright He also fell in the shower but only against one wall, and fortunately not the door. Obviously, Wendy could not have helped!! So far I had suffered no falls. I use either a strong arm or the walker to keep me steady when I am outside. On the drive to the ranch from San Antonio we stopped at a rest area just to have a break. My walker was in the back of the truck so I decided to use the cane. Clearly that was a mistake. Coming back to the truck from the toilet, I mapped out a clever plan to cross the road where there was a ramp to avoid the steep curb. I did not wait for Ken, which was my second error. He had already noticed the dog tied up beside the big rig which I only noted as I was walking beside the big truck. When the dog growled, I turned quickly to get away but unfortunately, my feet will not move quickly while my head did. I fell. And I yelled for Ken. It was quite a graceful fall. I was wearing a denim skirt and a long sleeved shirt so I was covered up. No blood and no broken bones. The owner of the rig and his wife hauled me up off the sidewalk and held me up as we walked to our truck. Then I drove home to the ranch. Next time I will wait for Ken before crossing to the truck and next time I will get out the walker. I promise.

May 2, 2015. Harper, Texas. Highway 10 West.

The drive is lovely and when you get past Boerne, the traffic is sparse. I have said it before but it bears repeating. Driving west from San Antonio is one of the prettiest interstate highways in the country. The only one in my memory that beats it for beauty is the highway driving east from Portland, Oregon right along the river. We have driven this road from San Antonio to the ranch many times but I am always impressed. Today everyone was a bit anxious with me driving all the way but we stopped after an hour at a rest stop and all was well. Joyce told me that the ranch was green and she was right. It is almost as green as Nova Scotia. And the grass has grown too. This ranch is looking good. Ken and David were discussing selling the ranch because it is remote and we can not use the ranch much any more. But after seeing it again Ken is inclined to keep it. Of course we know we have stairs and gates and we are a long way from family and friends. Right now Joyce and Robbie are in Nuevo Vallarta so we are really isolated. Tomorrow I will speak to the folks right adjacent to us to be sure they know that we might need help. The phone system is working too which is good. Last time Verizon had no signal at all so we only could communicate via e mail, so progress has been made. Susanne and David sent a large care package of food so our fridge is full. David sent all the rest of the barbecue left over from last evening's dinner. It alone will last us all week so we are set for the week. But tomorrow we will relax and enjoy the ranch. And we will see if our walkers will work down by the ranch house so we can get some exercise. We like this place.

May 1, 2015. San Antonio, Texas. Their House.

Usually we don't stay with them, but last night and tonight, Ken and I are staying with David and Suzanne and the girls. Normally we drive back to the lake for the night, but I am not at my best so Suzanne D. suggested we limit our driving. Today we enjoyed ourselves being lazy. I took three different naps and enjoyed every one. Suzanne R. spent the morning walking the Riverwalk, after staying the night at an airport hotel. Now she is safely back in DC. Her assistance to us was invaluable. Plus we had a good time driving from Mississippi to Texas. The weather has been perfect. Ken sat outside this afternoon and after the girls came home from work I went for a walk with Allison around the circle. Tonight, Abigail is attending a party and a friend has come to get dressed together as her parents are out. David brought barbecue for dinner and was delicious. Sarah is taking the SAT.test tomorrow so will stay home tonight and go to bed early. Suzanne D. is with four other ladies celebrating birthdays at a resort in Houston. The twins will be home tonight too. This is a busy family. Ken and I have enjoyed spending the day in their lovely home. David's roses are in full bloom and are glorious and his bees have been busy. Tomorrow Ken and I will drive to the ranch as next week we have doctor appointments on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Then we will rest. As we have said before, something good comes from everything. Staying in the home of David and Suzanne and the girls has definitely been a good thing. My brother just called to remind me that our sister Carol would have turned 80 today but she never made it. May 1st is her birthday. I miss her still.

April 30, 2015. San Antonio, Texas. The Spurs.

I love to watch The Spurs play basketball. Their passing is superb. And mostly they win. But when they play badly everyone in San Antonio mourns. Last evening was one of those nights. They were awful. I saw more air balls during last night's game than I have ever seen at a professional game. Both teams were bad. The Spurs were just worse. They had good reason to win, because had they won the game, they would have won the series 4 to 2, but now the series is tied so it will be a sudden death game. Last year The Spurs won the championship but they are a year older now so perhaps the spring in their legs has gone. They are an older team for sure, but they play like a team and their effort is always at a high level, so it is a pleasure watching them play the game. But not last evening. There were spells when they looked like the Spurs of old but not for a long enough period of time to win the game. They only lost by 5 points which tells you how badly the other team was playing. Saturday will be the final game in the series. Cheer for the Spurs. As an aside, The Caps won their game in the last second. Such fun.