Five hundred, twenty-five thousand, six hundred minutes, how do you measure, measure a year?

Normally I'd measure my year by the number of coffees I have taken in, yet this year it doesn't seem appropriate considering I'm not doing coffee now.

Side Note: I did have a really, REALLY bad day at work yesterday so took off at/around lunch time. Not being hungry I went to my other safe haven, Starbucks. I ordered my normal Grande Vanilla Americano with xtra room. Added my cream and sugar. And about 30 minutes later I was the speediest of typists. I'm thinking perhaps jumping back into a triple wasn't such a good choice.

Right, back to measuring.

I could measure it by the number of people I did not kill.

Or I could measure it by the amount of love and support I felt throughout the year.

Or even still I could measure it by how often the local weather forecasters are wrong.

Nah. I think I'll measure it by a LIST OF 40 NEW THINGS

Yes, my faithful readers, the list is complete. (if you get my Christmas card you are 1) very lucky and 2) already know the list). Still there are others who really are dying to know what's on that list.

So without any more goofing around...drum roll please...

My 2009 List of 40 New Things

First let me say that if you don't 1)like, 2) think its not new, or 3) have any other negative opinions about my 40 new things, I'm returning your Christmas gift.

Ahem

Starbuck’s Instant Coffee – anyone who knows me knows Starbuck’s runs through my veins - or well it did. Instant Starbucks! My life had been changed forever.

Bosses for dinner – having people to dinner isn’t anything new. But having my boss and my bosses’ boss to dinner was new to me. I BBQ'd and ran out of gas...thank heavens they like their meat rare.

Podiatrist – What? There was never a need before. And I can't say it was all that helpful cuz - *clears throat* someone didn't follow all the doctor's orders.

Photograph a 5K Run – PhotoGirl asked me to assist in photographing a 5K run at a turnaround point with Seattle in the back ground. It was a blast. Tiring holding up the camera for so long, but fun all the same.

Grease the Musical – Grease is the word!

Roller Derby – A whole different crowd to watch and a whole new sport to learn and appreciate. I think I should have been a roller derby girl in another life. I think I actually came up with a roller derby girl name too...Jenicide I think.

Photograph Susan G. Komen Gala – Fancy pants gala event in which I was asked to photograph the SGK volunteers. Had to "search" for a formal and then remembered by I didn't like formals...itchy, uncomfortable, and too much work.

Moved to a townhouse – Moving isn’t new – I mean if you know me, you know moving isn’t new. But moving to a town house is. And having three floors of goodness is new. That's three whole floors full of cat fur. Yes mam.

Read 100 books – I didn’t manage to read 100, but 73 instead. Still I’ve never read 73 books in a year. So it counts. And I got turned onto a very cool site called GoodReads. It allows you to track the books you've read and want to read. I have 272 in my "want to read" queue. And no I won't be trying to read 100 next year. Maybe I'll shoot for the remaining 27 (did I do my math right? 100-73 = 27 right?)

Volunteer at Getting Started Meetings – After participating in the 3Day last year, I knew I wanted to volunteer this year. So I started by helping at the Getting Started Meetings. It was a blast and yes I cried every single meeting thanks to the overly moving video. Yes, I'm going to volunteer again this year. That should be interesting. I'll break out blubbering at the opening music...watch, you'll see.

Pampered Chef Party – Also no “new” but I hadn’t had a party in 10 years, therefore, new. Anything you haven't done in 10 years and re-do is new. Jenn's Law #45. What? You don't believe me. Well, Jenn's law #46 says, Jenn does not have to care if you believe her or not, so there.

3Day Expo Volunteer – Again, my chance to participate in the 3Day without walking. But being allowed to hang with some extraordinary men and women.

Photograph Race for the Cure – I got to wander around the R4TC and take photos of the volunteers. They give so much and I was so thrilled to be a part of it.

il Divo – Wow. And Yum.

Dueling Pianos – It is what it sounds like. Two pianos going back and forth - well dueling - playing and singing. The bar was sketchy, but the company was fun.

Seattle Duck Tours – Goofy? Definitely. Worth it? Most certainly! I mean I met my soul mate on the duck tour...the driver playing really bad 80's songs - surely my soul mate.

Black Bottle Restaurant – What? I have never been there. And for the record for all you Seattle folks...Yum. If you go, get the Blast Broccoli. ZOMG sooo good.

Photograph a Wedding – Nerve wracking! But worth it to learn more about photographing people. Not sure I'd ever do it again, maybe drunk I would.

Volunteer for Survivor Brunch – For once I actually volunteered instead of photographing the volunteers. And I won, I mean Blueberry won, a free cruise on Holland America.

Try 100 new recipes – Again, didn’t get to 100, but got to 67 – and I’ve never tried 67 new recipes in a year. A few friends appreciated the endeavor. One friend concerned that I'm not eating and therefore not cooking and therefore she doesn't get left overs. She'll survive....maybe. Almost all are on my cooking blog. Go ahead, take a look. I'll wait.

Carve a white pumpkin – I didn’t even know there were white pumpkins, but I carved one for my Great Pumpkin Carving Party. It had white guts even.

Have an Ultra Sound – Yep. I had to have an ultrasound. It’s not what you think.

Had a Hysteroscopy – yah, ick.

Visited an OBGYN Oncologist – there was concern of some pre-cancerous cells found during the hysteroscopy. Had to go to an oncologist for my options.

Had a Hysterectomy – this was my option. A robotic laparoscopic hysterectomy. But you know all about that. BTW, the belly button incision is almost all closed. Thanks for asking. The stitch that was still in it fell out. I thought I lost my umbilical chord again.

Took Percocet – in the hospital they gave me Percocet as the pain killer. Weeee!

Had a catheter – 'nough said.

Estrogen Patch – well taking out the girly parts means I needed something to help “balance” me out. Notice I didn't say make me normal? Yah I know the peanut gallery pretty well and they'd contest that in a heartbeat.

Giving myself injections – because of blood clot issues in the past, and now being on estrogen, the doctor thought giving myself injections of a blood thinner for 21 days post surgery would be a great idea. I hated it. Nightly tried to talk myself out of it. And yet, 21 nights in a row, I managed to put a needle in my tummy. It's amazing what you can do when you have to.

Hot Flashes – Oh yah, these are fun. Even being on the estrogen patches, it’s a low dose and so some of the menopause side effects will come through. My own Personal Summers is one…and I cry at the drop of a hat. Wheeeee!

Program Manager – I was promoted shoved into being a Program Manager. Its hard work, and a bit discouraging at times, but its fun and new and I’m learning a lot.

Lead a Quarterly Business Review – Being the Prgm Mgr I was the lead on the business review for the first quarter. Lots of hard work, and a bit unnerving, but I put on my ubber confidence pants and prevailed. Didn't even get yelled at. So that's a plus, right?

Straight No Chasers – If you want to hear a 10 man acapella group, search for these guys on YouTube and sit back and be amazed.Go to Benaroya Hall – Straight No Chaser performed in a local theater I’ve never been in. It has a huge Chihuly glass chandeler above the stairs (look to the right of the picture)...I wish I would have brought my camera...

Super Diamond – Whoa! Went and saw a Neil Diamond tribute band. I had no idea what songs Neil Diamond did that I knew. Of course Dudley opened for them, which was the real reason I went.

Saw New Moon – What? I’m a Twilight fan. Go Team Jacob!

Bought and iPod Car Stereo – Love it. I get to skip past songs quickly. In my 4 mile commute I can listen to 30 songs...

Cracked Windshield – yes the Mustang has a boo boo. But in all my life, with all the cars I’ve owned, I’ve never had a cracked windshield. Honest! And this one apparently I'll have for a while. Every time I go to replace it, some financial catastrophe happens and it has to wait another month.

No one’s every asked me if I’d eat a triscuit off the floor – my office mate was helping me come up with one more. And in fact I've never ever been asked that. Who knew this list could produce such wild abandonment?

And the 40th New Thing: Never before (and never again) have a made a list of 40 new things.

The other thing I love to do this time of year is re-read my blog posts for the year. I don't read them all, but I skim through them and I gotta tell you...I'm all shades of surprised you all are coming back to read. There's some weird stuff in this blog...but it's all me, and all friends, and apparently almost nothing is off limits.

Hitting the Panic Button....

I hit the panic button today. I had a wee little panic attack today. I got another medical bill. It won't end. And as I added it to my spreadsheet of bills, I double triple checked to make sure it wasn't a duplicate. And when I realized it wasn't my heart sank.

I knew what I had to do. I had to call the momunit and tell her I forfeit the $$ I've put in for the cruise, but I can't go. The $$ I was saving for that cruise would have put a small dent into the medical bills.

Then after thinking about how the MomUnit would respond (most likely by saying "Put on your big girl pants and deal with it!) I realized the small amount I'm budgeting for the cruise really won't put a big dent into the medical bills. At which time I decided - "Meh - I need the cruise."

Crisis averted. Phew!

Today was move day at work. I moved from my comfy office with PMDude to back out into the new "bull pin" we've created for the program I'm supposedly managing. Poor PMDude, he won't have anyone to bring him random 80's songs all the time. Nor will he have someone constantly yammering on and on to her computer. He'll be bored. I'm concerned for his well-being.

Nothing overly exciting for this weekend. Meeting some Husky friends tomorrow night for dinner. (Side Note: Almost cancelled the dinner too for above mentioned medical bills). Then I'll be sitting all warm and cozy in my apt as we wait for SNOW to supposedly arrive on Sunday. Yes, Snow. As if the frigid cold we've been experiencing isn't enough. Blech! Snow.

Its too cold to type...

Its 16F outside right now and I swear to GOD I'm frozen solid. If I were to slip and fall on the pavement I'd break into a thousand pieces. We'll have temp records break tonight. The record was 21F in 1972 and tonight it'll be 17F in Seattle. I mean lakes and ponds are frozen around here...the who? the what now? Ponds don't freeze in Seattle. Hold Please.

My pond is frozen! Ice skating anyone? Oh wait, that means I'd have to go out. Never mind!

I know you want one, so I'll give you a food update. 16lbs. That's what I've lost since the surgery. I'm finding that I almost have to force myself to eat something. I used to laugh at all those skinny girls who used to say, "Oh I forgot to eat." I always wondered, "Who forgets to eat?" That so wasn't within my vocabulary. And now, I find I forget to eat. It's insane. I miss food. I miss eating.

On a plus note, I have a bunch of new clothes I get to wear for the cruise. You know those clothes? The ones that get pushed to the back of the closet because they don't quite fit. Yah, well I get to move them back to the front again. Woohoo! Too bad most of them aren't sweaters or long johns.

I got my Christmas cards done yesterday. Its been weird for me to not have them done by Dec 1. Still, they're done. My letter is basically the 40 New Things list (which I'll post here eventually). My little tradition is the last card I do is for my parents. The first is for my Aunt Jean so I can get it to her before hers gets to me (family race every year). I was marking my X's and O's on the letter when I saw it. A typo! Dagnabit! Oh well. You''ll survive. If you don't like it let me know and I'll drop you from the list.

I'll end this on a happy note. My heart grew 10X yesterday. You may have heard that we had 4 local police officers shot down two weeks ago. It's hit the area hard and the outpouring of support for the families has been overwhelming to see. One local pizza chain, Papa John's, is donating ALL the proceeds of pizzas purchased yesterday and today to the families of the slain officers. I drove by two Papa John's on my way home yesterday and was stunned at the lines. The stores are mostly delivery and are usually empty when I drive by. Yesterday, the line for one was out the door and around the store. I get all teary thinking about it. Tonight they are saying that if you didn't get to buy a pizza (they ran out of dough and what not) you can buy gift cards and they'll put that money toward the donations too. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Clause.

Throw your arms around the world at Christmastime

I couldn't resist. This is my second favorite Christmas song. Why? Well, why not! It is, after all, full of 80's singers...so are you really surprised?

14 lbs, in a month. That's the amount of weight, officially, that I've lost. I had my post op dr. appt today. I was an hour and half early (wrote the wrong time down apparently). Thankfully the NP took me early. She's a delight by the way. As she called me back, I stepped on the dreaded dr. scale (which by the way its well known the dr. scale is 5 lbs heavier than my own scale and it has nothing to do with me "adjusting" the scale). She looked at the number on the scale. Flipped a page in the chart. Looked at the scale, and stated, "It appears we have something to talk about today. 14 lbs in a month - not bad. Not good, but not bad."

Turns out I'm completely normal (no comments from the Peanut Gallery).

She had a little heart to heart to me about this whole surgery thing and said that she thinks I need to come to grips with the reality that the surgery I had wasn't "simple". According to the inner workings of my body it was a major change. My body is trying, as best it can, to get the balance back. She asked me to think hard about the "loss" if you will and focus on the healing and not so much on the side issues.

The lack of appetite, fatigue, and general feeling of not wanting to do anything is part of the left over from the general anesthesia. She said in some people it could take 8 weeks to work it's way through. IF I'm having this same issue at the end of January then I should come back in and we can discuss options. And by "options" she means anti-depressants. Which I want no part of - thankyouverymuch.

I asked about the weepy-ness and hot flashes too. Apparently because I'm on such a low dose of estrogen some of the menopause side effects will still be present. In a much smaller manner, but they will still be there. She told me that as for the weepyJenn that I should consider a couple of things. First, my body is trying to find the balance with out the testosterone and estrogen from the ovaries. And second, it is the holiday season and sometimes we're a bit more emotional this time of year. That's all good and fine, but I am tired of crying at the stinkin Folgers commercials. Damn you Folgers! Oh, and that dang Anhauser Busch commercial with the troops walking through the airport. One person starts to clap, then another and then another. Before long everyone is applauding the troops...oh god...make it stop!

Anyone want to step up and pay my medical bills? You'd be my BFF. No? Really? Hmph! Fine.

37 more days until the cruise! Not that I'm counting or anything.

Will you tell the folks back home I nearly made it?

If you know the song to the lyrics in the title you 1) need help and 2) get BIG Jenn kudos.

Right, so I'm sitting her being depressed watching the Crapple Cup. Good Lord, my Cougs really need to pull their helmets out of the collective behinds. Ugh.

My appetite is missing. If you've seen it can you do me a solid and send it to me? I keep expecting to see it on the back of a milk carton or something. Today at 3:45pm I realized I hadn't yet had a morsel of food. That is so unlike me. Food and I are BFFs. Its frustrating to not even want to eat. Further I don't even want to cook, or think about food, or shop for food, Ugh...I so miss my old self at times.

My new diet today has consisted of Nutella and Fritos. Nice huh? I had a handful of Frito's at 3:45pm and then a spoon full of Nutella. I'm not 100% sure, but I'm thinking this could be the new diet craze.

Last night BigBro, Seattle SIL and I went and saw Straight No Chaser. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend seeing them. Fantastic singers, mixed with some comedy and throwning 10 attractive boys and you got yourself a winning combination. Check out their Twelve Days of Christmas on their website. Seattle SIL managed to get us front row seats...it was perfect. I could gaze into the eyes of so many talented men. This year they did a song called the Christmas Can Can...I almost pee'd my pants laughing at them. Click here to see it! Do it! Go back and click that link!

21

And I'm done.

• 21 nights of trying to talk myself out of giving myself shots
• 21 injections
• 21 empty syringes
• 21 little purple bruises at the injection sites (looks kinda like a constellation)
• 21 days of doing something I never thought I'd do

I light my torch and wave it for the NEW MOON on Monday...

Go Team JACOB!

Yes that's right I went an supported Team Jacob this weekend. I went early on Saturday to avoid any screaming teeny boppers. Blueberry and Mrs Braspir (who's name will now be Queen PopUp). I was no fan of the first movie. In fact, I hated it. Too many longing looks and no enough dialog. Blech!

New director for New Moon and it's an entirely different movie...well of course it's different, but you know what I mean. Loved it. I may have to walk over and see it again this weekend.

Speaking of this weekend, its Turkey day in case you didn't know. A lot going on this weekend. Here's a little preview for you:

1. Turkey Day of course. I'm hoping the prodigal brother makes it over from Eastern Wa so I can see him. I haven't seen him in about a year. Spending Turkey day with BigBro and that fam. Food and Family, what could be better.

2. Hair cut - Yes. It's time. Despite the money being short at the moment, a girl has to look like a girl. Which means getting one's hair styled correctly. Plus..well why am I trying to explain it to you?

3. Straight No Chaser - Yes that's right. Don't be jealous. BigBro, Seattle SIL and I are all going to see them. Seattle SIL found they were in town and so offered it up. I can't wait! In case you don't remember who they are...check this out.

4. Apple Cup - Though this year it should be called the Toilet Bowl. Stinky. That's what our two university teams are this week. But yes, it's the University of Wa Huskies (BOOO) vs the Washington State Cougars (Yay). Someone has to win. They both stink, so who knows. The cougs stink way more than the huskies...so I'm guessing they'll lose.

5. Christmas Photo Sunday - Usually by this time of year I already have my cards done. They are usually made by hand and my letter is usually written, printed, envelops addressed, sealed, stamped and ready to go. This year I haven't even started. I'm way behind. So I've decided to go a different route this year. One of my volleyball buds has a photo studio in his house and offers to do photos. And I'm going to take him up on this offer. The question is what to do. I have a few ideas, but I'm sure you my faithful readers have ideas. Do tell. No. There will be no nudey photos...I can't afford breaking his camera and replacing it.

6. My last injection! This should be listed first cuz that day is Wednesday. Yes that means I have THREE left...not that I'm counting or anything.

Misty Eyed Moron...

"Who would that be?" you ask. Me. Unbelievable amount of tears that seem to seep out of my eyeballs these days. Make. It. Stop.

This could border on TMI, but if you're a reader of my blog you know that just about nothing is off limits. So here goes.

I had a very easy monthly visit from Aunt Flow. Very easy. All my life, (well okay except in 11th grade when I pretended to have cramps to get out of gym class. Only the gym teacher was also our school nurse who informed me "Exercise is good for cramps.") I had no real issues with Aunt Flow. I was regular, light, and never a moody basket case. Oh I had mood swings, I won't deny that. I was just never that crazy girl who went on an emotional roller coaster during those precious days each month.

Crying was something I left to the serious heartbreaks or losses. And I assure you there were many heartbreaks in high school and college that brought me knee deep in salty tears. Still, I felt I was a strong girl. And as Frankie Valli said, "Big Girls Don't Cry" (or Fergie for you younger crowd...she said it too).

It was rare that I cry in a movie. I left the sniveling to Blueberry. She used to cry when we would watch Little House on the Prairie re-runs in college. After the show I'd shove the box of Kleenex toward her and she'd exclaim, "Pa can always make me cry."

But not me. No way no how. I wasn't a crier.

Until recently.

Apparently by removing certain girl parts certain other parts feel the need to go into overdrive and leak tears. Its insane. I cry at every little thing these days.

Break a nail - I burst into tears.

Stub my toe - I lose it (but it really hurt)

Then I was watching Ellen tonight and she had a 12 year old kid from the Philippines who came out and sang "All By Myself"...it was beautiful...and by the end of the song...weeping.

Watch some stinking hallmark commercial about Thanksgiving and sending a loved one in the war a card -- oh geeze here I go again.

Talk amongst yourselves.

*sniff sniff...
Right. I'm composed.

Now, I am no where near where others are or have been. I can't even imagine going to that place...and if fact just thinking about it makes me cry.


The doctors told me I "could" have some menopausal side affects because the estrogen patch I'm on was such a low dose. When the said "could" I heard "never".

Still, here I am getting ready for bed thinking about all the things that made me tear up a bit today (9 times, but who's counting) and suddenly I realize, my EYES ARE LEAKING AGAIN. ARGH!

On a more positive note, and a note that won't make me cry - I don't think - I have 8 shots left. E-I-G-H-T! But again, who's counting.

I guess this is my life now. Weepy Woman! And the BEST part is I suspect it'll get worst when I'm in my 50's when the real menopause kicks in. Oh that will be just ducky. Can't wait. I've got so much to look forward to.


If you're still reading, stay tuned for my next blog where I discuss my own personal summers that go on too.

I did manage to go into the office today too. I spent 1/2 of the day getting reacquainted with all the old crew at work. It was nice to go in and have conversations with people who actually talked back instead of look at you blankly with their black furry face. I may have over did it. May have. Still it felt good to get out among the living, non crying people.

Never look backwards or you'll fall down the stairs.

Not too long ago, I "accidentally" dropped the cat down some stairs. It wasn't intentional - I swear. It. Was. An. Accident. I've explained it to him. I baby-ed him after. I would never do something like that intentional.

The cat, on the other hand, has exacted his revenge today. I knew he had been plotting, but never really thought he'd follow through. And yet, today he followed through with his dastardly plan.

Let me back up a bit.

Yesterday I shot a wedding for the first time. Friends of the family had asked my BigBro to shoot their wedding, and he asked me to be his "second". The promise was made way back in like August and I never thought then I'd be recovering from a surgery. Still, I managed to get dressed and off to the wedding (which, by the way was located at the edge of the world - Enumclaw). I spent as long as I felt I could there and headed home early.

By the time I got home, I was exhausted. I needed rest. So I slept for almost 12 hours, but the afore mentioned cat decided I had had enough sleep (me thinks he may sleep outside tonight).

I had been up for about 2 hours and decided to head upstairs to clean out my belly button. (Side note: not of lint. But rather the incision there is an open wound and requires some maintenance so it doesn't get infected. ) On my way downstairs, the big black beast of burden was "following" me. He loves, LOVES LOVES to run in front of you and stop. No warning, no nothing. Just a dead stop. Normally I have my wits about me and catch his evil plot to trip me and step to the side. Being exhausted and not fully engaged yet, I didn't notice he hadn't moved on to the next step to stop and wait. Instead, I stepped on him. Between his whaling and me trying not to break anything on him, I slipped and took a tumble down about 4 steps.

Hitting the platform my first thought was, "Bring it on. Is that all you got?" Followed by, "Dear God the pain." The cat, meanwhile, was at the bottom of the stairs with a coy almost evil smile on his face rubbing his little paws together in triumph.

I managed to get to my feet and thought it best to head back up stairs to survey the damage. Sore-er now than before, but everything looks okay. The belly button is quite sore and is "leaking" more than normal. I may call the doctor tomorrow. I'm such a pansy.

In other good news, only 11 more shots! Woot Woot!

Oh and my Check Engine light went on in the Stang. Bring it! I can take more. Despite the cats best effort to put me down, I'm not...what else ya got? I'm thinking the world is out to get me right now...must be karma.

Total naps today: zero...something's wrong here

Let it be known by all that today, November 10, be the day I almost blacked out by the number of emails in my two work accounts. I didn't even know Outlook could hold that many emails and not implode. I did manage to get through about 10% of them, the easy ones. And thankfully I had Law & Order: SVU on all day to help me through. Then I had Ellen and her show help me through, then Oprah, then the news...and then I realized there's really nothing on daytime TV.

Shot update:
I know you care. But I've now given myself 5 shots. Five! 10 days ago I never would have imagined giving myself one. It may not seem like too big of a deal to some, and you may be thinking, 'Enough already.' If you are, too bad - my blog my rules (ala Patron Saint). I have a mere 15 more to go, but who's counting. Last nights shot hurt like hell though. I hesitated and stuck the needle in slowly. THAT won't happen again.

Healing Update:
Who knew that healing took so much energy. It saps you. I never really had a reason to think about what the body goes through after surgery, but now that I've had time to think about it, I guess it makes sense. I mean it was used to being a certain way and having a few extra parts, then this big claw came in and rearranged and took a few parts. It's only answer is to take it's own sweet time healing. I'm in the danger zone now though. I feel good, and the pain is minimal, and I think I can do things that I know I shouldn't. I find myself hourly "assuming" I'm well enough - then stop and ask myself if I really should be doing that. Mom would be proud.

Stera-strips Update:
Good god those things stick. Which is their job, but man, do they have to take it so seriously. My finger nail caught one in an attempt to itch the incision (itching apparently means they're healing - who knew?) and tore it a bit...I thought I was going to cry like a baby. I did check though and all my skin still appears to be in tact. The curious Girl in me though wants them to come off so I can actually see the incisions, though admittedly I'm not sure I wouldn't pass out.

Today is brought you by the number two.

Two. That's the number of shots I've given myself. Can you believe it? I certainly can't. I don't even gag a little when I do it. It doesn't hurt and by golly it's almost fun. Okay that last part is a lie, but still I'm super proud of myself for being able to do something I never thought I'd do. It's amazing what one is capable of when one's life is on the line.

Speaking of life lines, thank you to EVERY single one of you who has had me in their thoughts and their prayers. I'm positive all that super charged positive energy has helped me the last couple of days.

It's been two days since the surgery and I'm feeling pretty good. Sore. Very sore at times, but with a little rest and pain medication, all is good in the world. I've not had any weird side effects from the percocet, but I guess is good. I heard so many stories I was a bit scared to even take it.

Surgery day is a blur really. I remember getting up at O' dark what-time? and driving to NW hospital. The parental units are here taking care of me (okay so it's only mom - but who doesn't want their mommy around in times like these?). I sailed through pre-op. Managed to stay engaged even with the check in nurse was having troubles finding a vein on one of my hands. She put this lovely numbing stuff on so I didn't really feel anything but the pressure - which is creepy. The doc stopped by and the last thing I remembered was someone asking if we were good to go. Next thing I know I'm being wheeled past the waiting area and hear my last name called out.

Blueberry and the units met me in my room. I have a vague recollection of talking to them. Overall I felt pretty good. I was uber sore then, but then again...those dandy pain meds.

The staff at Northwest Hospital were fantastic. A great selection nurses and CNAs who had excellent bed side manner. I'll be writing a thank you note to them later this week.

Yesterday I was discharged, only after I passed a few gas bubbles and showed them I could potty all by myself (weird I know). The ride home was miserable. Didn't ever realize how many bumps were in the roads, but man there were a lot.

Slept most yesterday afternoon, and then lazed around today - managed to sneak in a 2 hour nap this afternoon in my busy schedule.

All in all, I feel good. The soreness grows less and less by the day - getting up out of bed or chairs isn't as painful now. The four little open cuts I have are healing - I think. It's hard to see really with the bruising around one of them (they actually went through my belly button - sure hope they cleaned it of all the lint first). My insides seem to be jocky'ing for the new found space. They were rearranging themselves last night. I think my liver has a new address - I'm just sayin'.

So again, thank you all for your support. It means the world to me. I'm sure I'll never be able - oh geez I'm tearing up - stupid hormones - to express how much it has meant to get so many well wishes. You're all the best!

Now if you'll excuse me, I hear my bed calling.

Emptier than I've ever been...

Tomorrow is the big day. As it quickly approaches I'm filled with anxiety and a bit of excitement.

The doctor appt on Monday deemed I was a "perfect" specimen (hey!) for the laparscopic robotic hysterectomy. Lucky me. The doc told me, and I quote, "You're set up perfectly." Who knew I was "set up" perfectly. I would hope I'm "set up" like all women, but maybe I am more different than you all thought.

Two things came out of the appt that didn't please me at all and is the reason for previously mentioned anxiety.

1.) I had to starve myself today by an all liquid diet. AND I had to take some nasty stuff that "tastes like cherry" to clean out my innards. I know TMI, but still.

and

2.) I get to give myself injections for 21 LONG days after the surgery thanks to my blood clot issue I had a few years ago. The doctor doesn't want to take any chances, and while I agree with him, I'm sure modern technology allows for another method to thin my blood. Like, can't I just drink more water? Or can't I take a pill? Why shots? I expressed my concern to him by nearly begging, but he would not be swayed.

The biggest news of the appt was that he will be taking all my girly parts. He wasn't 100% convinced that the ovaries aren't in danger and so thought while he was in there might as well. My sentiments exactly! Naturally my first concern was the steep drop into menopause without my girly parts, but rest assured he had an answer for that too. I get to wear an estrogen patch for 10 more years or however long before I hit menopause.

Now, if you're up on your facts you may know that estrogen was the cause of my blood clots to begin with. They think. I was on birth control pills and we all know those are estrogen. We all do know that right? So he'll be putting me on an extremely low dose. AND apparently taking estrogen orally causes way more problems with clots due to something your liver does or doesn't due in processing (frankly I glazed over when he was telling me). Whereas with the patch, it seeps in through your skin, and it's safer.

In the long run it'll also reduce my risk of breast cancer in my later years.

The parental units made it up here and are settling in. Mom's been laughing at me all day as I've made many, many MANY trips to the little girls room. And even though I've had nothing to eat today, I'm somewhat surprised at how not hungry I am. Though I have my mind set on a nice big burger sometime Thursday.

I wanted to say a BIG FAT THANK YOU to everyone who has sent me well wishes. You never really know how much support you're friends will provide until you need it, and I've gotta say, you are all the best friends ever.

So with that, I'm going to go drink some more water and have some orange jello, get a good night sleep and by this time tomorrow I'll be 3lbs lighter and without my girl parts.

Glitter on the Mattress

If you see a faded sign on on the side of the road....

The boys of DMQ were the B52's last night. Classic. Absolutely classic.

I'm not a huge B52 fan, but at least knew 2 of the 3 songs they sang last night. Rock Lobster and Love Shack. Hearing Rock Lobster rocketed me back to my sophomore year in high school and attending the USA Camp with BFF Laurakens. They had a little party for the teams and I remember hearing this song for the first time. Oh the memories.

Ahem...

Right, so the boys did a damn good B52 impression. The lead singer sounded shockingly close to the guy in the B52s. Oddly though they didn't sing all 10 of the Top 10 Worst songs. I was a bit bummed, because some of them were way bad. A few on the list they didn't sing: Party All the Time, Sussudio, You Light Up My Life, a couple more I can't recall. But of the 4 they did sing...wow, were they bad...in a good way. Oh, you want to know what they were?

The #1 of the Top 10 is one of my all time favorite 80's songs...and I admit, it's a bad song. It's the Final Countdown. Other songs they sang: We Built This City by Jefferson Starship, I was Made For Loving You by KISS, and Sister Christian.

In attendance last night were three, count them, THREE Dudley Virgins: Seattle SIL, Mrs. Braspir, and the PMGoddess. Of the "old" gang partying all the time were Blueberry, myself (of course), PhotoGirl and The Yank. The place was packed and some pretty darn interesting costumes. Of my crowd we all wore this Pippy Longstocking Witch hats, but The Yank and PhotoGirl out did themselves. One was Major D. Pression and the other was General Anxiety and they were both dressed in army fatiques.

Happy Halloweeny! You weeny!

Did you get your fill of Ma Nah Ma Nah?

Tonight is the annual Dudley Manlove Spooktacular (that's for you PMDude). I can't wait. A load of Dudley virgins are coming with me tonight. They have no idea how their lives are going to change after tonight. Who do you think the boys will dress up as? Madonna's? The Bangles? We shall see.

Yesterday was a rough day for the cat who owns this place. I'm sure when he woke up in the morning and started the diatribe of "feed me", he didn't think he'd be stuffed in a box three times and stuck in the Stang each time and the off times outta the stang stuffed in the bathroom. Because had he known ... well he wouldn't have gotten out of bed.

The day started like most. He got fed. Yet he hadn't read the memo indicating the Fire people were coming to check the systems. According to the landlords I had to be out as did the cat for the "test" all day. I had no idea what to do with the cat "all day". I mean it's a cat. I can't take him to work.

I had a 9AM call and I just knew the fire people would show up in the middle of the car. So to avoid having to explain to a client what the screeching noise in the background was, I thought I'd take the call from Tullys.

I had already stuffed the cat into the bathroom - he was already aware that something was up. At 20 till I stuffed the cat into the "Live Animal" box (it cracks me up that it says "Live Animal". I mean as if you'd be shipping a dead one.) and headed downstairs to leave. At the bottom of the stairs I had to stop and open the garage door. I carefully put the Live Animal up 5 steps so I could open the door. I turned and that's when my calves were slammed by said Live Animal. Poor cage and kitty tumbled down the flight of stairs. I started giggling at the thought of Pookie being in the spin cycle. He was unharmed, just a bit frightened I think. Oh if he only knew what was next.

He got put in the stang and off we went. The Tully's is all of less than a quarter of a mile and let me tell you, he had a few things to say on the way. I left him in the car and went into Tullys. Finished the call and headed home. He was none too happy to have been left.

Back at home, back into the bathroom. The look on his face was, "Just wait. "

Again, we had to leave to get lunch. He and went to Subway. Usually he likes Subway turkey, not so much this time.

One last trip came as the inspection boys showed up. This time we only sat in the Stang in a parking spot. I tried turning on the radio thinking that music calms the savage beast. That's a lie. The savage beast out sang the 80's hair band belting out a ballad.

At last, he was freed from his captivity. I didn't see him for most the rest of the day. Finally he showed his furry face and managed to settle down on the couch. He no sooner closed his eyes and the fire alarm went of. I didn't see the black blurr, just saw the fur still hanging in the air. You know how in cartoons the character jumps and appears to be running in place in mid air...then they bolt? Yah, that's what this looked like. About 8pm last night he came sleeking downstairs.

He survived. I survived. I have yet to find the "treats" I'm sure he's left me.

Ma Nah Ma Nah

Oh man I soo needed this...

The Great Pumpkin Carving...Part VIII

Thought I would add two more photos of the event...and Blogger is being a Pain so I can't move them down in the thread...but Pumpkin Peeps and Spider Cupcakes finished out the evening.

I've lost count at how many of these I've had. It's relatively annual and I think I started in like 1998 or something. I'm trying to remember where I was living so I can pin point the year. Still, last night was the "8th" annual Great Pumpkin Carving at Chez Jenn's. As expected all was in rare form and as creative they could be with pumpkins. This year I decided to let everyone bring their "scariest" appetizers. And naturally we had WAY too much food, but we did our best to get rid of it. (BTW I tried the Trader Joe version of chicken gyoza...OMG sooo good).

All the photos are here, if you dare.

I decided to step outside the box this year and carve a WHITE pumpkin. Which by the way I've never done...so guess what's been added to the list of 40?

I went for the pirate theme on accident. I started by carving the top off, digging out the guts and then wanting to be 'creative' when Mr. Volleyball suggested square eyes. Okay. Square. And we were doing well until one cut went too far - thus the notches. It's all in how you improvise.

I'm always amazed how people go about their carving. Some dig on in like Blueberry and others have to serious contemplate where to cut - Like ChickenLady. She wanted her pumpkin to "talk" to her.

So drum roll please.........

Here are the finished products. Left to right: Kim used a template, but you can't really see how good it was, mine, ChickenLady's Spider, Blueberry's Big Eyes, Mr. Volleyball and The Dane's unfinished drawn on gourd, and Claudia's tree carved pumpkin. Ooo La La.

The Pumpkin Murderer's: Me, Kim, ChickenLady, Blueberry, The Dane, Claudia and Mr. Volleyball.

If you weren't there you missed out. AND you may have been taken off the dinner rotation at Chez Jenn's. Unless you have a good excuse...and I mean a good excuse. Like maybe being in another state, that might be a good excuse. Might be....

Along with the Sunshine, there's gonna be a little rain sometime.

First let's start with the good news. Not that there's bad news, per se, but let us begin with good news. Solid good news.

I ROCKED THE CASBAH TODAY IN A QUARTERLY BUSINESS REVEIW!

What's more, the feedback from a major player was so astonishing to me that I almost felt like I could do anything. I found renewed faith in doing a good job. I felt confidence I hadn't felt in a long time. The interesting thing to me, this last wave of positive feedback comes on the heals of other good and interesting comments made by friends.

Right, so the not so good news. If you are one of those friends of mine who find I share too much information on this blog. You should turn away now. Don't read further. I'm about to disclose some rather personal information - and I don't want to hear from you that I share too much. You've been warned.

I get to have a hysterectomy. I know. Don't be jealous. You wish you were this fortunate.

Turns out that after the last little procedure the doctors found some nasty little pre-killer cells. There are two options for me. One of which isn't really an option and the other is a hysterectomy. Me? At just 40? Seems so surreal to me.

I've had about a week to take this all in and I've had some very quiet evenings at home to have little freak out sessions. I'm feeling pretty normal now. Scared to death and yet I feel in control of my destiny. I know that this surgery is one of the most common that women go through and rarely have any serious issues related to it. And I know that this surgery will save my life.

And that is what got me.

Realizing that removing an "organ" that I really haven't needed means that cells that were only interested in killing me will be removed. Stupid cells. Hah. I'll show you. You won't win. Neener Neener.

And besides, I've been informed that I'll really have the best of both worlds. I won't have Aunt Flow visit monthly AND I won't be in menopause (they aren't taking the ovaries). So really, this could be a good thing, right? No. It IS a good thing.

So, I'm adding a hysterectomy to my list of 40 new things. Funny little thing life, I had no idea this would be one of my "new" things.

Wanna an update of my 40 things? I know you do. I'm starting to think I may not make 40 things, but ... we'll we shall see.

1. Starbucks Instant Coffee - Nummers
2. Boss and BossBoss for Dinner at my house
3. Podiatrist visit
4. Walk of Hope
5. 5K Run Photography
6. Grease at the 5th Ave
7. Roller Derby - YeeHaw
8. New place to live
9. Read 100 new books - 67 read to date
10. Volunteering for the Getting Started Meetings (3Day)
11. Volunteer photographer for 3Day
12. Pampered Chef party
13. 3 Day Expo Volunteer
14. Race For The Cure Volunteer Photographer
15. iL Divo (ooo lala)
16. Ducks Tour
17. Dueling Pianos (and really bad food)
18. Volunteer for Survivor Brunch
19. Try over 100 new recipes (I need to count these - I think I'm around 65)
20. Ultra sound
21. Hysteroscopy
22. Hysterectomy
23. Volunteer Photographer for Gala

Things I still need to do:
1. Glass Museum
2. Smith Tower
3. Photograph a Wedding

And I'm at a loss now...I need more new things people!
4.

The World IS out to get me...

Sitting in the dr. office this afternoon for the "No big deal" post op, I felt confident that in fact the little bugger of a surgery would be "no big deal." As I sat and waited for the dr. to come in, I glanced around the sterile room. My mind focused entirely on getting out of there and back to work...I mean, I have things to do. This little visit should be quick.

My eyes take in the room. The counter tops are covered with baby stuff - or rather anti baby stuff. I'm slightly amused with the "models" they have on the counter top. The calendar is of babys, the pamphlets are all about either having or not having a baby. Everything around me is about having kids. Naturally. And somewhat ironically.

There's a soft knock on the door and in walks Doc. She seems a bit apprehensive, but she starts jabbering on asking me how I felt after the surgery. We banter back and forth about the entire process and finally she clears her throat. "I've received the pathology report."

Something in me felt cold. I had a bad feeling about what was coming next. My hands were suddenly clammy and I was sure my face was white as snow.

She smiles softly and proceeds to tell me about the results. She mutters off large words that are incomprehensible to me. I nod politely and act as if I understand what she's saying. I remind myself to pay attention as I am immediately taken back to my semester in Mexico where I simply nodded yes regardless of what I understood. It didn't have any real consequences then, but it could now.

I tell myself to focus and get back into the conversation just to hear the words "pre-cancerous". Wait what? I'm too young for the C word. She did not just say the C word?

Shaking my head I ask her go over that one more time, and please use words a 2 year old would understand. She proceeds to explain about atypia cells. They are just abnormal cells, that may or may not be cancerous.

The bottom line is this...I have to make a decision about how to proceed. I have two options. One of which isn't at all something I think I want to do. Which leaves option 2. Option 2, not something I thought a 40 year old would have done.

Still, as she wrote down the pathology report terms and a phone number for a referral to an - gulp - oncologist I found myself suddenly a bit numb.

The "C" word and the "O" word in one day. Surely that just proves my point in the title of this blog.

I must have appeared like death warmed over because she patted my hand and said she was merely referring me to these doctors as they specialize in a "robotic" method and wants me to discuss my options with them.

Right so nothings cancerous now. But could be. Maybe or Maybe not in the future. How does one make a decision based on that?

In the end, I toddle off to the car I'm playing the visit over and over in my mind. Freaked out to say the least, I pour myself into my car. Comforted by the warmth of the Stang and the really bad 80's tune. I take a moment and breath. Closing my eyes to really think about what just happened. And I did what any normal woman would do after this type of doctor's visit....

... I drove to Starbucks!

Maybe Tonight, Maybe tomorrow

In case you've not noticed it's Breast Cancer Awareness month. So for you ladies out there, check your boobies. For you men who have ladies you care about - and can get away with it - help them check their boobies (oh and check you're own too 3% of men can be diagnosed with breast cancer).

I was turned on to this song by a video from Young Survivors and it just touched my heart. Give it a listen. Read the lyrics too - I promise you, you'll feel it - in your throat as you get all choked up.

Maybe Tonight, Maybe Tomorrow - Wideawake

I heard the news today.
It came out of nowhere.
I wish I could run away,
but where would I go?
Is this my destiny?
Something so unfair...
What will become of me?
God only knows.

And they say the road to heaven might lead us back through hell.

Maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow,
we will win this fight and bury this sorrow.
We're so alive, still holding on, not ready to die,
so we LIVESTRONG.

My pride is left for dead,
as my world gets shaken.
The thoughts inside my head
are so hard to control.
I am staring down the unknown,
but one thing is certain.
You could break my body,
but you will never break my soul.

And they say the road to heaven might leads us back through hell, but we're holding on for more than stories to tell.

Maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow,
we will win this fight and bury this sorrow.
We're so alive, still holding on, not ready to die,
so we LIVESTRONG.

Around the house...

I felt the urge to get the camera out today, but didn't want to go too far in my adventures. I decided to wonder around the house and neighborhood and see what I could conjure up for the fall and halloween.

A few Lizard Legs.

 

A ghostly tale

Eye of Newt

Skeli-mingos!

Better out then in I always say...

And with that I can add two more new things to my list:

1. Surgery
2. General Anesthesia

Surgery was a simple little procedure to remove a growth, nothing serious and nothing to worry about. At least that's what I kept telling myself. I wasn't so worried about the surgery as much as I was about the General. Not having every been put "under" before I was, understandably, concerned. You know, with me being a "control freak" and all, I was having issues with the idea of being "out of my own control." The idea of going to sleep in one room and waking up in another, was a bit much for me.

Still the morning started like most mornings, up early. Seattle SIL picked me up and drove me to the surgery center. By the time I was checked in and walking down the corridor to the operating room (with a slight breeze on my back side I might add) I had met 9 new friends from nurses to pharmacy dropper off-ers, to Dr. FeelGood(anesthesia guy - who was hilarious BTW. Who knew Dr.s could have a sense of humor?

I was gently guided into the operating room by Mr. FeelGood. I momentarily laughed at myself because the op table looked like a crucifixion table. Nursey-poo directed me to the table and indicated that she had been warming the bed for me...and she said, "Hop on up!" Right..hop...that's funny.

Still Dr. FeelGood and the Nursey-poo were working in tandem to keep me occupied while they forced a needle into my vein and began the prep work. Finally I noticed I had a needle in my arm, and clear fluid dripping into it. "Oh you're good," I said to Dr. FeelGood. He just smiled and said, "I'm putting the sleepy drug into you now...you should start to feel...." and that was all she wrote.

Some time later I was being tugged awake by another nurse asking how I felt. "Drunk!" That's how I felt. Like I had had a few too many Cosmos. After a few minutes, I was able to get up and stumble my way to the restroom to dress. I giggled out loud at myself trying to put my pants on after what felt like one helluva a fun night (with non of the calories).

Outside there was my SIL and a nice little recliner chair for me to sit and drool in (okay - so I didn't drool). Finally, Miss Pharm-Oh-Looky-At-The-Fun-Drugs stopped by to give me my prescription for hydrocodone.

Of which I won't need to take. I feel great. No pain. No nothing. Just starving and in need for some caffeine.

So thanks everyone for your well wishes and good thoughts. They clearly worked. Hopefully now I can get back to life on the fast lane. (Insert Eagle's Song Here)

Sometimes I'd like to hide away somewhere and lock the door...

I had myself a very Pink weekend. I know you're not overly surprised that I be involved with some pink, are you?

Saturday, BigBro, Seattle Sisterinlaw, Blueberry, and Blueberry's sister all attended the Drink beyond Pink. It was a silent auction that was sponsored by Young Survival Coalition. They made a bunch of $$ to help fight breast cancer. Sadly, I didn't buy anything because a girl has to save $$ to pay medical bills here shortly.

Then Sunday BigBro, Seattle SIL, Blueberry and I stepped to it and walked a the Walk of Hope 5K. It was great to get out and do some walking. I've been sidelined - mostly by myself - because of the bruised balls of my feet. The 5K was a nice stroll through a nice park here in Seattle. The sun was shining so I did all I could to ignore any pain the footsies were feeling. Only later did the feet really hurt. But it was for a good cause.

I had an interesting dream last night which brought on the title to this blog. I've been struggling lately with dealing with over-bearing ego (OBE) types lately. I let too much get to me and it gets me all wound up. This dream made me laugh when I woke up. Dreams, they say, are your subconscious doing some filtering of thoughts, issues, etc. This dream there was no doubt what it was telling me to do.

I was married - which isn't the odd part, I'm getting there. Suddenly these little alien "bugs" were everywhere. They would dig in and get under my skin. They were painful to say the least. WE tried everything to kill them. We stumbled onto happy thoughts, and letting go of things as one method to kill them. And if that didn't work, apparently sawdust killed them. I carried a can of sawdust with me for sticking my hands into it on a whim to kill them. And we had a swimming pool of sawdust in the back yard too, just in case.

So what do you think? You think those little alien bugs are my OBE? Maybe I should start giving in to the "just let it go" idea. Something has to start working, or this girl is going to go INSANE.

In other non useful news you may want to know, we are getting very close to the "procedure" date. Friday I'll be adding another "new" thing to my list by having a little procedure done (they are calling it a surgery because they put me out - which by the way is another new thing).

And then, I guess after that I get to add paying medical bills to my list of new things. The first few came in already and let's just say someone is going to have to start scraping pennies together and start reviewing her spending habit again.

Be The Cure

When Blueberry was diagnosed with breast cancer 5 - almost 6 years ago - I was beside myself. I couldn't even believe that this was happening to 1) some so young and 2) someone my age.

She was fortunate to have stellar healthcare that really covered the majority of what she went through.

After she was clean and clear I started thinking about ways I could give back. It didn't dawn on me right away to volunteer for Susan G. Komen, and in fact I'm not sure what made me decide to do it, but I did. I don't get to volunteer as much as I would like, but I am proud to say I'm a part of the Puget Sound affiliate.

The affiliate has really made enormous strides in our community. Amoung the issues they focus on is helping those who don't have healthcare get through it. Blueberry was fortunate, but so many, especially low income, aren't and need that assistance.

If you have 5 minutes to spare, take a look at this video and all that the Puget Sound affiliate does. Some of the data they provide is shocking to me. I mean one woman every 3 minutes will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 1 woman will die ever 13 minutes. In the time it's taken me to write this blog, well, let's just say that's 2 or 3 too many.

There Are No Bad Days...

I know we've all had it. That one experience that suddenly jolts you back to the reality of it all. Where you're reminded just what it's all about? That one moment when you put away all your petty complaints and see life, raw and pure.

I had one of those experiences last week. It was such a powerful experience that even today I'm shaken to my core just thinking about it.

I miss my life. I hate the fact that I'm working long hours and feeling like its all for nothing. I miss enjoying my job. I miss actually getting up in the morning and wanting to go to work.

I keep telling myself I can hold out. That it's just a little bit longer. That "little bit" turns into weeks...months...but it won't be years. Come January I may have to make some difficult decisions.

Before that though I have to get through it. I've had some pretty crappy days lately. The come home, drop your bag where ever it falls, pour a bottle of wine and break down - type of days. It sucks. It truly sucks.

I was having one of those days last week. I got up early for yet another early morning at the office. I trudged my way through getting ready that morning. Cursing at the fact that I knew, I KNEW I'd spend another 12 hours working frantically and not even seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I remember wondering if I was even in the tunnel yet.

I drove to work not really noticing anything. Was it sunny out? Who knew? Was it raining? Did I run over any squirrels? Pedestrians? Did I run a stop light? Just going through the motions.

I got to Starbucks. A small beacon of hope to me. It meant that at least I knew my coffee would be good. That for the next hour I could sip on something that I knew would make me feel good, if only for a moment.

There was just one woman in front of me when I got in the store. They're pretty fast there and they know me so its rare I have to wait. The woman paid and walked away to wait for her cup of joe.

I greeted the barista - thrilled that they knew my drink and even asked if I had my sleeve with me today (I have a special re-useable sleeve thats a flamingo pattern). I paid and turned to wait with the woman in front of me. I noticed her shirt was pink. I've been trained to look at pink and think "breast cancer". Her shirt had writing on it. I glanced again to see if I could see what it said.

Then I gasped. Right there in Starbucks, and another shitty day - it all became clear to me. It was like a big huge bulb went on and everything was good.

Her shirt read: SURVIVOR: There are no bad days!

Suddenly, my problems didn't seem so bad.

"Here's a riddle for you, Find the answer: There's a reason for the world, You and I"

Holy Sunny Sunday! What a whirlwind day. I took refuge in the thought that yesterday I didn't have to do a darn thing. And you know what? I didn't. Oh that's not completely true, I did do a load of laundry, and I did go up stairs a couple of times to pee...but other than that, the Big Black Beast of Burden and I sat on the couch and watched romantic comedies all day.

This morning I was up and out the door to volunteer for the Susan G. Komen Survivor Brunch. I missed last year's volunteer opportunity, but was thrilled to be able to help out this year. For several of their other events I've done photography of the volunteer staff. This year they had professional photographers so I got to actually do some of the work.

This year's event was on a Holland American cruise ship in Seattle. They sure know how to do it up right. I sat at the registration booth and help welcome in 400 Survivors and co-survivors for this brunch. I always get such a thrill when I see so many beautiful women in one place who have fought against a disease and have won, and sitting next to them is someone who was right there with them through the whole battle.

I got to not only sit next to Blueberry, but on the other side of me was a 29 year Survivor. She told me her story of courage and how different things were 29 years ago. Suddenly I was overcome by the view of just what Susan G. Komen has been fighting for all these years. Here I sat, a relatively healthy young woman who hasn't a clue what the battle is like, and next to me is a woman who fought this battle by herself 29 years ago with 2 small children. Strength. That's all I could think of...pure strength. I hope my strength is never tested like that.

As I said, I was sitting next to Blueberry. As each Survivor entered the ship they were given a raffle ticket - oh sorry they are "opportunity drawing tickets". Then you could purchase more tickets for $10 a piece. Blueberry decided to buy another ticket. The main drawing event was a 7 day cruise donated by Holland America. The cruise options were: the Caribbean, Alaska, New England or Mexico. They start reading the number. I'm leaning over Blueberry saying, "Oh my god. Oh my god." with each number that passes. Six numbers later and she's a winner! Yes that's right Blueberry won the 7 day cruise for 2 people. You gotta know I just stared at her and made her almost promise I'd be her +1 on this cruise. Of course I may now have to be nice to her for a bit.

Risin' up, back on the street, Did my time, took my chances

I'm blessed. I got to spend three long, glorious days chasing three amazing people around Everette and Seattle. My walkers did it! All three walked the 60 miles in what was, at times, blistering heat. But they prevailed. They did not let it stop them.

This year I got to experience the 3 Day as an observer. I think I actually cried more. In fact, I'm tearing up now as I think about seeing my walkers crest a hill to the first cheering station. The overwhelming feeling of being part of something so huge. Something so great. And something so worthwhile

As I sit and struggle with how to explain the 3 Day I thought the perhaps some excerpts from the closing and opening ceremonies speech best said what I felt.

Read them and embrace the spirit. But first...watch the video of our trip.

One woman honors her best friend. Another woman dedicates the next three days to her daughter and her daughter’s generation. Another woman who could be any of us, has pledged the miles to come to the years that await her. Out of a deep belief that the power to end breast cancer forever lies within her reach.

This is the moment where individuals who perhaps as recently as only hours ago stood and dared to face breast cancer alone now stand united. A remarkable community of heroes. This is what the end of breast cancer looks like. Because the 1 in 8 women who will develop breast cancer is one too many.

Now, and for the Generations to come. Every lifetime is precious, And what could be a more poignant reminder than the experience of a survivor? I ask you now to turn your attention to eight such heroes, who this morning take the first steps of a new journey. Hand in hand, they surround an empty circle, A living symbol for the millions of women and men around the world...whose lives have been lost to breast cancer.

Closing
They don’t think about it. They just respond. And that is what you have done so powerfully. Faced with a disease that has no respect for human life, you didn’t ask questions...You responded with a display of courage that has no respect for this disease. Asked to submit, you would not submit.Asked to surrender, the white flag was nowhere to be seen.

It is no overstatement to say that you have achieved greatness in the last three days and for your efforts the world will not be the same. Each of you has your own hero. Your own reason for walking. Many of them are no longer with us. But many of them are.

One word of warning: It will look different out there. Tomorrow, when you cross an intersection you’re probably not going to get a round of applause. When you walk into your office odds are there’s not going to be a little girl there with a painted sign that says “Thank You.” Odds are, random acts of hugging will be the exception rather than the rule. Don’t be alarmed. If we’ve learned anything this last Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, it’s that goodness is our natural condition and it only takes two aching feet, two creaking knees and one mortal enemy to bring it out!

Now we ask you, as we did on Friday morning, to turn your attention to a very special group of people—our Survivors. On Friday, we used the Survivors Circle to remember all those we have lost to breast cancer. We used it to remember a time when we walked with them. We used it to hold stories of our endurance under the most trying of circumstances. This afternoon, we widen the bond to include the loved ones and friends and even strangers whose lives will be spared because we cared. On Friday, the Survivors left carrying eight flags representing eight facets of their radiant existence. This afternoon, we salute them for sharing their light with us these last three days. In the Survivors Circle, and in the spirit of all our survivors, we see that life really is a great adventure to be savored and explored. And in the end, to be lived.

The Eve

I can't get the "Twas the Night Before Christmas" poem/story out of my noggin.

Tonight is the night before the 3Day. I find that I'm a bit nostalgic about this event. I had to go back and read my blogs from last year. Wow. I can't believe I walked for 3 days and tried to walk 60 miles.

As I read I found myself tearing up and I thought, "Are you kidding me? Already crying." For the next three days I will be at the locations that got me all teary eye'd last year, the cheer stations. I can't wait. I have my two hats and my big wig all brushed and ready to be worn (yes I had to brush the hats, they're fur-ish after all). I have my cameras all lined up, batteries charged, a plan on shots to take...I'm all set.

Now, I just have to get through three days of cheering endlessly for 2300 heroes out there walking in support to find a cure for breast cancer. But never fear my faithful readers, I'll be posting as much as I can.