Sunday 31 March 2013




Left Calgary Friday evening., both of us looking forward to a few days in the sun.  The plane was full and we could not sit together but no problem, Kelli needed to study and this would be a good opportunity to get a couple of hours of concentrated time in on the books without me nattering in her ear.  Wrong!  Early into the flight there was a “medical emergency” on the plane and the request came over the speaker for a doctor to identify themselves.  Both Kelli and another guy pressed their buttons.  Fortunately the emergency wasn’t much and everyone returned to their seats in short order.  The only problem was that Kelli’s seat mate had now discovered what he had sitting next to him. He shared his entire medical history with her and was extremely chatty for the entire flight! 

We arrived in Vegas and grabbed a cab.  We climbed into the back seat and Kelli switched on her google map to check where we were going  We had already read on the hotel website that the hotel was only a short distance from the airport and the very most it should cost you is about $25!  Well, there he was zooming down the freeway and Kelli looked at me and said that he had missed the turnoff.  She called him on it and he tried to tell us you couldn’t get off the freeway that way.  Well, he took us on a long  circular route and the fare ended up being over $35.  When he realized we knew what he was up to he gave us a discount off the fare.  We’re not sure if he got lost or was trying to scam us but I suspect the latter.

Our hotel is off the strip but quite lovely.  We are staying here on points from our “vacation timeshare”.  It iseems somewhat appropriate that it is called the “Cancun Resort” as it was there that we first got caught in one of those presentation things where the deal sounded to good to be true.  I know Bill still regrets buying this but we have had quite a bit of use out of it.  The only real problem is that it is work to make it happen.  The Cancun resort is really nice though and does resemble a Mexican resort.  There are two really nice pools and several hot tubs.  Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen so we actually bought breakfast stuff so we can eat there in the morning.  There is also a fitness room and I have been very good about going down each morning for a workout. 

Yesterday we were up and at it fairly early and were surprised at how quiet the strip was.  We purchased $5.00 bus passes which allow you unlimited bus travel for 24 hours.  We were surprise at how quiet things were but have now realized that most people seem to stay up all night, sleep in or sit by the pool for the first part of the day and then hit the strip and night clubs.  The people watching here is incredible.  I am in my element.  Of course Bill and Kelli both call me nosy….I continue to remind them….observant  is a term I would prefer.  I honestly am open jawed at some of the outfits I have seen here.  Amazing doesn’t even begin to describe some of the get ups we’ve seen.  We wandered some of the strip yesterday and cruised through some of the hotels and casinos.  Went into the Gucci Store and could not believe the prices!  Even if I had the money I wouldn’t be spending thousands of dollars on shoes and handbags!  Obviously there is a market out there though….
We decided to try our hand at gambling but neither of us have ever done this before and cannot figure out how to play some of the games.  We did find one that is fairly simple .  Roulette.    Were actually up $13 at one point but then decided to try the slots.  By the end of the evening we had lost most of our winnings and were down to $3.00.  Thank goodness you don’t have to go to a real live cashier to retrieve your winnings.  You just put your coupon  a machine.  It would be a little embarrassing claiming a $5.00 win.  Honestlyl though, I see how people get hooked on this.  You always feel this need to win back what you’ve lost.

The absolute best part of the day, however was Cirque du Soleil.  It was amazing.  The set was one of the most incredible sets I have ever seen and the show was jaw droppingly fantastic.  Both Kelli and I enjoyed it tremendously.  The only part I couldn’t understand was how many people arrived late…..How can you spend that kind of money on a show and then not even bother to show up on time.  The people sitting next to me arrived at least five minutes into the show and the girl sitting next to me (probably about Kelli’s age) spent the entire show looking at her cell phone.  We would clap at the end of an act and she would look up from her phone and clap as well and then go back to her phone.  I cannot understand this connection people have to their phones.  I am not at all this way….when I’m on holidays, I simply shut it off and don’t bother with it.  I get that it’s a great tool for using to get around, or researching things and sending the odd message but to have it on your person constantly and be looking at it every minute of the day goes beyond my comprehension.  Sadly, though, this seems to be the way our world has gone.  How can one truly every disconnect and have a holiday if you never  let go of being totally accessible all the time?

Well…Happy Easter to all….remember your White Rabbits tomorrow.  Don’t be an April Fool and forget!!!







Friday 29 March 2013

Today Kelli and I leave for Vegas for a few days!  It's hard to leave this beautiful weather, for sure, but knowing I'll be returning to snow next week definitely makes it easier.  If you haven't looked at the long range forecast....don't get tricked into thinking we've seen the end of winter in Calgary.  It's just not so.

I will be taking my computer and hope to stay connected via the blog, but if you don't see any posts from me for a few days, just assume I'm having a great time!  I've never gambled but am planning to bring my fortune home!

Had brunch with Geoff and Lindsey this morning at the Lazy Loaf!  Delicious and so nice to sit and chat with them!  My world travellers Geoff and Lindsey are leaving once again.. off to Honduras in a couple of weeks and Kelli and Mike are heading to Turkey!

In the meantime....do not forget your "White Rabbits" on Monday!  I have posted a cute one below about Easter and April Fools falling on the same day!  I have always loved April Fool's day and absolutely loved playing tricks on both my kids and my students.  I remember one year serving Kelli and Geoff frozen peas for breakfast.  I poured them each a bowl and then turned my back because I started to laugh and didn't want them to see.  When I finally got control of my giggles and turned back to have a look at their reaction they were both gobbling up the peas like this was a totally normal breakfast being served!  That's my kids!  The trick totally backfired!  They thought frozen peas for breakfast was a great idea!



Here is an early visual reminder for Monday, April 1st!!!  He does make a cute rabbit.  Interestingly, my first labradors' name was "Thumper."  Boomer is honestly a clone of Thumper!
When we were skiing at Kimberly I saw a girl who had a cover for her ski helmet.  It looked much like the one above but fit over your helmet and had a fluffy tail on the back.  I pointed it out to Bill and said that I wished I could find one of those.  He suggested I go and ask the girl if I could borrow her helmet and he would take my picture.  Can you imagine someone you didn't know coming up to you and asking to borrow your helmet for a photograph?  I'd probably tell them to go jump in the lake!  Needless to say I did not ask her!

Yesterday, I finally returned a phone call from my old friend Arno.  Arno and I were badminton mixed doubles partners and good friends back in our teens and early twenties!  He now lives in Whitehorse and I haven't seen him in at least twenty years.  He heard via his Mom about my issues and has been trying to reach me but after several attempts was getting ready to give up!  Truth of the matter was I was out of town, skiing or sick from chemo each time he called and had not returned his calls.  Finally sat down and picked up the phone and rang him last night.  It was so nice to talk to him and even nicer to see how happy he is with his life.  We may lose touch with our good friends over the years but they  always hold a special spot in our hearts and minds.  This week my Dad attended a celebration of life for his long time friend, Gord Steeves who recently passed away from Non-Hodgekins Lymphoma.  I read Gord's obituary and loved the quote he loved to live by....."Make new friends, but keep the old.  One is silver, the other gold!"  How true is this?  I am so grateful for my circle of friends....old and new and often marvel how different aspects of your life bring different people to you.  A few weeks ago I saw an article in the newspaper, along with a photograph of a mother and daughter who are both dealing with cancer diagnosis.  The mother, a friend of my friend Maureens',  was diagnosed with breast cancer twelve years ago, came through her treatments and has been cancer free for the past dozen years.  Just recently her cancer returned and two months after being diagnosed, her teenage daughter was also diagnosed with brain cancer.  What family deserves that?  I read the article in the paper and was taken back by the daughters' comment that cancer was one of the best things that had ever happened to her.  I cannot say that is my view, however, I will say that many good things have come from it, one being the opportunity to reconnect with old friends.  You often think of these friends and think it would be lovely to see them or talk to them but until you are really faced with the uncertainty of your future, the thought just remains a thought.  Thank you to all my friends, old and new who have reached out to me in the past year and a bit!  Staying connected and reconnecting have been highlights for me, that's for sure and  are the positives I give thanks for every single day!

Remember your White Rabbits!  Give thanks for all that is good in your life!  AND HAVE A HAPPY EASTER!


Thursday 28 March 2013

Oh glorious bluebird sky day in the Rocky Mountains!  Kelli and I headed to Lake Louise this morning.  Didn't expect the snow to be great and were pleasantly surprised at how good it was!  The sun shone all day and the place was surprisingly quiet.  I thought with it being spring break it would be hopping.  Not so....we were on and off the lifts all days with virtually no line ups at all.  I must confess I am feeling a little pooped but was really happy with how I skied today.  I think the time I've logged on the bike has paid off.  I did not huff and puff nearly has much as I have on my previous days out!  I did have a rather close call at the end of the day however.  A young guy on a snowboard, totally out of control almost wiped me off the hill on our final run down.   Kelli said to me...."wouldn't it be something to have gone through what you have this past year and then be killed by a crazy snowboarder?!!"
Rock Garden
Top of Ptarmigan Chair
Kelli picked me up this morning and we headed over to Geoff's to pick up her ski poles.  We also wanted to borrow Geoff and Lindsey's park pass but I had forgotten to ask last night so knowing they would be still in bed I brought their house key and just let myself in to find the keys to Geoff's truck.  I was trying to be as quiet as possible as I didn't want to wake them.  I guess Lindsey woke up and said "Geoff!  Someone's in the house!"  He grunted "Whatever...", rolled over and went back to sleep.  Not very security conscious, that's for sure.

I now have the tickets for the Honey Badger Silent Auction, and fun fundraiser!  It will be at Schanks in Crowfoot on May 25th.  Tickets are $20 each and include admission, a beer or highball and light snacks.  There will be games that you can win prizes at as well as some fabulous silent auction items.  I am hoping I can talk my friends into coming!  Please!!!  It will be fun!!!  If you would like tickets please drop me an email at ljsherlock@hotmail.com   I am happy to deliver the tickets to you!!!  Just let me know how many you want and when I can drop by with them!   I was not able to go last year but heard it was tons of fun!  Please consider joining us.  $10 of each ticket sale goes directly to the ride and $10 goes to Schanks.  We are hoping to get a great turn out for this event!  Please consider bringing your friends along as well.  The more, the merrier!!!

Tomorrow we leave for Vegas.  Looking forward to a fun few days!

Wednesday 27 March 2013

I woke up this morning and my first thought was that this was the one year anniversary of my first big surgery!  I had an email from my cousin, Trish this morning.  Her comment was that she couldn't believe how far I had come.  She was thinking about my trip to Mexico, for Geoff and Lindsey's wedding, six weeks following my surgery.  I had no voice, no swallow and was on a feeding tube!  My second thought was that I hoped I would get a donation today to commemorate the day!  Sure enough I got two donations!  I'm not sure my donators knew what the signifigance of the today was but special thanks to both of you!  You brought a huge smile to my face!  This time last year I was tripping out on pain killers.  I remember them getting me out of bed and making me walk on the spot!  I have no happy memories of those three weeks I spent on Unit 61!

I did my time at the gym this morning.  While riding the stationary bike I saw a commercial that brought me to attention.  " Every three minutes Cancer picks another Canadian to start a fight with."  I find that thought quite disturbing and makes me even more resolved than ever to do this ride.  Our team has now grown to 32.  I had a good chuckle this morning.  When my kids were small I used to look after our good friends' son Brian.  Ron and Marg, both with the police force, worked shift work and Brian often stayed with us for days at a time.  Honestly, I think of him as my third child and Kelli and Geoff have always considered him part of our family!  I was out with the three kids one day and a lady was commenting on my children.  Geoff and Kelli were both tow heads....white blonde hair and blue eyes.  Brian on the other hand had brown hair and brown eyes....as I do.  The lady looked at the three kids and said.."Well, at least one of them looks like you."  Ha ha ha....the one that wasn't mine was the one she was referring to.  This morning Brian sent me this message.....'Im so excited to be a part of your team! At least you can have one child that looks like you there.
Truly, though, I'm so honored to be able to to raise money and ride with you and the family. I'm looking forward to the journey.
I hope you and Kelli have fun in Vegas!
Thanks Brian..... I.loved the message and look forward to having you along on the ride too!  
Brian and Kelli both took Kineisiolgy at the U of C.  Occasionally when they went out to the bar Brian used to tell people he had pictures of he and Kelli naked.  Now, there is some truth to this but what he failed to mention was that these pictures were taken when the two of them were two years old!!  I have the same photos!
I am busy logging my time on the stationary bike thinking of my good friend Maureen who is actually riding on the rode.....she's in Maui!  We're all just a little jealous of you and Duane my friend.  It kind of seems like you guys are cheating by getting some miles in while the rest of us are still facing the possibility of snow next week.  Not only are you riding, but you are posting pictures of yourselves which is just plain and simply cruel!
The day was so glorious that Boomer and I headed to Nose Hill and did the big loop.  I think it's about 10 km but it was so beautiful out I just felt like being out there enjoying the fresh air.  Of course Boomer did his usual spash through every single puddle, even laying down in one.  Along the way we saw several light colored dogs.....all of them absolutely black on their undersides.  I then looked at Boomer and thought he's just as dirty.... it's just not noticable because he is black.  So, from the off leash park we headed to Boomers favourite location....the dog wash!  Tonight he's clean and sweet smelling....but I won't kid myself....it won't last. The first chance he gets to spash through a mud puddle or roll in something nasty he will, disgusting creature that he is!
Honestly, I'm a little pooped tonight.  Pretty active day but a good one for sure.  Tomorrow Kelli and I are heading to Lake Louise for a day of spring skiing!  


Tuesday 26 March 2013

Last night we went to the Bob Seeger concert!  Wow.....it was amazing!  If you closed your eyes he sounded just the same as he did 20 years ago.  If you opened your eyes you saw this old guy on the stage.  It's hard to believe he's 67 and can still belt out the tunes!  Not only was he fantastic to listen to....he was clearly happy to be here performing for an audience who knew the words to almost every song he played.  About twenty minutes into the concert it became apparent that we had people in our section enjoying a joint or two.  I felt like I was taking a step back in time, not only with the music but with the behaviour of the fans.  Truly, the audience were pretty much our age, with very few youngsters in the group.  Having said that the pair sitting next to us were young ones.  They managed to consume a six beer each in the first hour of the concert.  If they weren't jumping up and down to go get more beer, they were jumping up and down to go to the bathroom.  By the end of the concert the girl was clearly pissed!  I thought she was going to fall down the stairs on her final exit of the night!

Today was a day of self indulgence!  Started off by meeting two old teaching pals at the Lazy Loaf for coffee and a muffin that we managed to make last almost three hours.  Barb now lives out on the coast and was in town for a few days and it was absolutely great to touch base with her!  Judy is always fun to have coffee with.  While we were sitting there a group of six teachers from my Cambrian Heights days arrived for lunch!  It was like old home week!

Left the Lazy Loaf and headed to the Winter Club for my yoga class, then went and had a drink and a visit with another friend!

I finally headed home, picked Boomer up and headed to Nose Hill.  It was a glorious, sunny day....perfect for a walk in the park.  We no sooner started our walk than a young pit bull came charging by.  I have never seen a dog run as frantically around, back and forth as this dog did.  Her owner had absolutely no control over her.  When she called the dog, the dog didn't even acknowledge her with a sideways glance.  She just raced around, from dog to dog and person to person.  We walked with them for a bit and the girl kept calling the dog but she should have just not bothered as the dog did not even come once.  Finally we reached a branch in the pathway and I turned one way and she continued on the other.......without the dog.  It was coming with us.  I continued to walk and the dog continued to charge back and forth, back and forth.  I could hear the girl calling and calling but it was like the dog was deaf.  I finally looked back over my shoulder and the girl was back about half a mile and was heading towards us across the hill.  I decided it wasn't my problem and continued to walk.  She finally caught up to us and was clearly pissed off at the dog and probably also at me for not stopping.    The dog could have cared less.  The girl spoke sternly to it..."COME!" and I swear the look she got was "Make me!"  Finally I felt sorry for the girl and called Boomer over at which point the pup also came and the girl was able to grab it and leash it. I looked at the dog and said "You are a BRAT!  You need to go to obedience school!"  Of course I was addressing the dog but truly was trying to send a message to the owner.  I'm not saying my dog was the most obedient at 7 months of age, but he never was as out of control as this dog was.   The girl then proceeded to go back the way she had come literally dragging the dog behind her as it tried to come back to where we were going.  When we got back to the start point of the walk we ran into them again.  The pit bull was still leashed and the girl was yanking on it and trying to make it listen.  She then told me that somewhere along the way she had dropped the keys to her boyfriends' truck and he was going to kill her!  She was not having a good day!  I am not a fan of pit bulls.  I usually go the opposite direction when I see one, even if the owner assures me it is friendly.  This one didn't worry me because it was so young and was clearly not aggressive.  However, when you see the lack of control this girl had you couldn't help but think the writing is on the wall and this dog is going to be a real problem in the future.  Scary!  

Another day of feeling great!  I cannot believe the difference in how I am feeling being off all chemo and it has been less than a week.  I'm so hopeful that I won't have to start up....this little break has totally spoiled me and made me realize the effect the drugs have on me.  I would love to have an extended break from them!


Monday 25 March 2013

Did my workout at the club this morning.  Cycling on the stationary bike is going quite well, however, I do know the real test will be when I head out on the roads with my bike and hit some hills.  This will be the real test!  Oh well, I'm not too proud to get off and push that bike up the hill, which is what I might have to do.  At least I'll have that yellow flag on the back of my bike which should explain why I'm walking!

Bow Cycle did very well by he Honey Badgers this weekend.  I know of three bike purchases, a helmet and assorted apparel that our team members purchased!  My friend Monica shared a funny story with me today.  She and her husband were shopping at Bow Cycle and they couldn't believe how many of the male customers were wearing sweat pants.  Later they discovered that across the street from Bow Cycle is the Vasectomy Clinic and these men in baggie pants were patients killing time before their procedures!  I don't know about you but I'm sure the next time I'm at Bow Cycle I'll be noticing the sweat pant attired men!!  Thanks Monica...probably more info than we needed but I'm happy to share it with the world!

So today, I thought I would go off on another tangent.  Not about donating to the ride this time, but a donation to consider for sure.  In the past I have written about my friends' son who underwent a double lung transplant seven years ago.  He is alive and well as I write and it is due to the generous forethought of some individual he doesn't even know.  At the moment I have a friend awaiting a lung transplant in Edmonton.  She suffers from the same affliction that Robbie did, cardio pulmonary hypertension.  She is a gal I have played badminton with and in the words of her husband, she is one fiesty little woman.  A number of years back she noticed she was getting short of breath and decided she needed to work harder on her fitness.  She discovered working harder didn't help and that she was becoming more breathless over time.  Eventually she was diagnosed and has lived with this condition ever since.  Like Bill and I, this couple continued to travel and live life as fully as possible, however, on a recent trip down to the States her condition deteriorated and they returned to Canada.  She was immediately hospitalized and airlifted to the U of A Hospital in Edmonton where she is currently awaiting a double lung transplant.  Alberta has a very low rate of organ donation.  Personally, I cannot understand the reluctance of people to donate their organs when they are gone but apparently this is the case in Alberta.  Either that or people just don't discuss this with their loved ones.  I know I told my family time and time again that should ever the situation arise where I was killed but my organs could be used that would certainly be my wish.  Unfortunately for me now, my organs would not be accepted with all the chemotherapy and radiation they have been subjected to.  No one likes to think about dying.....however, the reality is we will all die at some point in time.  Perhaps, like me, your organs would not be suitable for transplant but if they were wouldn't you want to give someone else a chance.  If your answer to this question is yes, make sure your loved ones know your wishes and sign your donor card.   Robbie was 18 when he got his new lungs. Quite honestly, I don't think he had a whole lot more time had this transplant not occurred when it did.  For him the story had a happy ending....I am hoping for the same story for my friend!

Tonight we are off to see the Bob Seeger concert!  The concert was scheduled for last week but was cancelled when he got sick and was rescheduled for tonight.  I just love his music and hope it will be a good concert!  My Bob Seeger CD is my driving CD.  Just love heading out on the highway with my sunroof open and Bob belting out his tunes!  Hoping tonight is great!!

Sunday 24 March 2013

Just to assure all who have sponsored me on the ride....I am in training!  Put some kilometers on this morning at the gym.  I do pretty good on the stationary bike...not so sure how good I'll be when it comes to the hills but I can always get off and walk.  I have some riding partners who assure me they will keep me company.  Maureen did 25 km in Maui yesterday and was feeling pretty darn good about herself until she did a reality check and realized that she had to ride 5x that distance for two days in a row.  My advice to her would be just don't go there in your head!  I've learned that skill very well this past year and it will be no different for the ride.  Just believe you can do it!  It's OK to kid yourself once in awhile, right???

So here is a picture of Jeff White's new purchase from the Bow Cycle sale.  I just checked the Honey Badgers page though and did not see his name registered.  Jeff?????  You've taken the first step....now it's time to take the second one!  Nice wheels.  They should easily carry you 220 km!
I had a neat thought today after chatting with my friend Milaine at the club.  Her Dad is undergoing Chemotherapy right now for stage 4 cancer.    I have also just finished reading all our team members blurbs on why they are doing the ride.  Everyone has their own story, that's for sure.  It occurred to me that all the friends and family who have sponsored me may be thinking of other people as well as myself who have been impacted by cancer.  I would like to dedicate my ride to all your loved ones and mine who we support.  I would appreciate it if people who have sponsored me or my family (or even if you have not) could email the names of people you are supporting through your donations.  I plan to take that list with me on the ride.  I am not just doing the ride for myself.  I have a long list of people I have loved who have travelled the same road as I am now on....some with happy endings and others who did not make it.  I am riding for them.  I am also riding for myself and for my family.  It is exciting to have a physical challenge to focus on.  It is exciting to be a part of something that focusses on making life better for so many people.  When I went to the Medical School Headshave, one of the girls shaving her head said she had never lost anyone close to her to cancer but she could only imagine how awful it would be.  I was amazed by her statement.  I don't think many of us can make this claim.  Cancer is something that has sadly become very common place.  I have a friend whose husband was recently diagnosed with cancer.  She had been a blog reader over the past year but said she now reads the blog with new eyes and a whole new view.  Honestly, I never thought I would be faced with this and imagine that most of you think the same way.  Sadly a significant percentage of people will be impacted in some way by this disease over the course of their lifetime.  Whatever we can do to help the medical profession in their quest to find a cure is for the good of all of us!  If you can't do the ride or don't want to do it please consider helping by making a donation.  We are still recruiting riders though so if you are up to the challenge,  the Honey Badgers would love to have you join the team!!!

A pretty uneventful day today actually.  I am cooking my Easter dinner tonight as Kelli and I will be gone next weekend.  Just checked the temperature in Vegas and it's a pleasant 25 degrees.  We are both getting pumped to go!  I am enjoying my chemo holiday!  I have already noticed a marked difference in how I feel.  It would be awesome if I had a clean scan and got an even longer reprieve from all these drugs!  So keep those positive vibes and prayers coming my way!




Saturday 23 March 2013

What a great day!  Started out with Bill and I picking Kelli up and going to Phil and Sebastians for coffee.  Yum....they make a mean latte.  It was totally delicious!  From there we headed over to the car dealership to pick up Kelli's new car.  Her first new car!  Last week she was feeling quite nostalgic when a she sold her 17 year old Camray.  That Toyota was a totally awesome vehicle.  Mom and Dad drove it for several years and Dad gave it to Kelli when he bought a new car.  It has been an absolutely amazing car....311,000 km on it and it's still ticking right along.  My Toyota Forerunner's the same way.  It has 270,000 km on it and we have had no major problems with it in the 13 years we've owned it. Years ago Bill bought a little Toyota 1/4 ton from Porky's Auto.  It was the ugliest vehicle I've ever seen....mustard gold and rust everywhere.  I think Bill paid a thousand dollars for it and he drove it for a few years before selling it to a neighbourhood kid for $100.  We saw that thing driving around the neighbourhood for two years.  It just wouldn't die.  Gave off backfires that made you almost jump out of the driver's seat and sometimes there were even flames shooting out of the exhaust system but it ran and ran!  Yep....toyotas are my vehicle of choice, although I did offer to do a straight across trade with Kelli this morning to which she flatly refused!  Can't say as I blame her.  Your first new car is always pretty special.  When we were picking hers up this morning I was remembering my first car.  I bought it the year I started teaching.  It was a blue honda civic.  Bill said it looked like a roller skate.  I paid $3500 for it and arranged to pay $300 a month on the loan I took out on it.  I am really going to date myself here.....my starting salary as a first year teacher was about $625 a month!  I was paying $300 a month on a car loan, $150 a month on rent leaving not much for food and other necessities.  Needless to say towards the end of every month I was a frequent diner at Mom and Dad's table.  I did have a second job at that time so it wasn't quite as desperate as it sounds, however, after a few months of being in the absolute poor house I decided to rewrite the loan and cut it down by half!

This afternoon I decided to hit Bow Cycle.  I usually avoid big sales but this one was too tempting and I really did need a decent pair of bike shorts if I'm going to be sitting on a bike seat for 200 km!   There were different times to purchase different items.  Sugoi clothing was going on sale at 3:00.  Thank goodness I got there at 2 because the line went all around the outside perimeter of the store by the time the clock struck 3.  I ended up buying 2 pairs of shorts at half price, a rain coat (a guarantee that the weather will be good this year) and a wind jacket.  Everything was 50% off or better!  I was a pretty happy shopper.  Now I'm ready to ride.  At least I'll look like a biker!

Came home and did a weight workout in the basement.  It was really good today.  Don't know if it's because I'm not on chemo or what but it was the best workout I've had in a long time. It actually didn't even fall under my usual description of pathetic!  I felt like a machine!

Tonight I decided to make my dessert for Sunday supper.  I'm having Geoff and Lindsey and Lindsey's Mom and Dad for dinner.  I decided that while the oven was on I would also make a cake along with the apple torte I was making for tomorrows' dessert.  As frequently happens, I almost had a big disaster.  By now I know none of you are surprised by this but there is something really amusing about this particular, almost train derailment.  I was making a Soup to Nuts Cake.  It has quite a few spices in it.  I haven't made it in a couple of years, in fact the last time I made I really screwed it up. Today, I came soooo close to making exactly the same mistake.  Unbelievable!  The last time I made it was to take to school for a recess snack for the teachers.  I accidentally put cayenne pepper in the cake instead of cinnamon!  By the time I realized what I had done it was already mixed in so I baked it and took it to school anyways, thinking it might be worth a good chuckle.  Surprisingly, the cake was totally eaten and everyone kept commenting on the strange spice in it.  Finally one of the ladies I work with came up to me and asked what that spice was.  It was familiar but she just couldn't place it!  Did she ever laugh when I confessed and I laughed when she told me she actually liked it!!!  Just proves teachers will eat anything, especially when they are at work!  Tonight history almost repeated itself.  Here I was, making this cake and I reach for the spice off the spice rack.  I actually had the cayenne pepper in my hand but LUCKILY noticed my mistake before I actually added it to the batter.  Phew!  I would have had to have frozen the cake and taken it in to the staff next week when they back from spring break!

Just had a look at the Honey Badgers page.  Geoff got a donation from "Boomers' friend Walter"!  Pretty awesome that even Boomers' friends are getting into this!  Walter by the way is a golden lab that lives with my friend Barb in Gull Lake!  Thank you Walter!  I'll send you some salmon sticks the next time Boomer comes to visit!

Friday 22 March 2013

Got up this morning feeling a little grumpy which is fairly typical when I have tests of any sort.  Bill said he hoped I had studied as hard for this test as I did for my photography test.  Not funny!
Downed my three glasses of water, no breakfast, no coffee, just plain old water then headed off to the hospital for my 10:15 appointment.  As always we had to wait but there was no shortage of things to watch in the waiting room this morning.  Bill says I'm nosy.  I prefer to say I'm observant!  Honestly, I think it's a teacher thing.  We spend our whole careers trying to stay on top of whatever the kids are up to, tuning into conversations, watching body language etc.  You don't just turn that off after 30 plus years.  Anyways....there's this family in the waiting room.  Some of you are probably old enough to remember the Beverly Hillbillies?  Honestly, this family reminded me of them.  I don't know why....but they looked like they came out of the backwoods.  Mom was in getting a scan and Dad was in the waiting room with three kids, two girls and a boy.  I'd say the boy was maybe 8 the girls 10 and 12.  There was constant bickering and sparring between the two youngest ones.  The boy was a master at pushing his sisters buttons.  He made subtle but mean comments, drew a picture of her (a not very flattering one at that) and quietly told her it was her so that Dad did not hear him.  When the sister tattled....the dad defended the boy, saying what made her think the picture was of her.  It went on and on....Then the Dad started to lose it.  He noticed that one of the girls had pen marks on her arms and told her she was going to get ink poisoning and if she didn't wash it off he was "going to tan her hide!" At this point I was summoned for my scan but Bill said things got even worse after I left.  He was going to take them home and show them the leather belt!  Finally a woman got up, walked across the waiting room and asked him to please stop talking to his kids in that manner.  It was upsetting her!  Things were silent for a minute or two and then he snarled at the kids "Now look what you've done."
Bill said he figured they were going to get it big time when they got home.  Granted he was probably under a great deal of stress with his wife in getting tested, however, you have to feel for those kids and can only imagine what kind of home life they have.

Had the scan and noticed two young people also in for scans.  One, a little girl, maybe twelve or so, the other a young fellow around eighteen.  When I see or hear of kids going through the things I'm going through it gives me such a jolt!  No, it doesn't seem right that I'm facing this but when it's a young person it really makes no sense at all.  Bill has a friend who's eight year old grand daughter has been battling cancer for most of her life.  I goes beyond my imagination what a little person must feel like being put through chemotherapy.

Did my hour of "quiet time" letting the radioactive stuff do it's thing, then had the twenty-five minute picture where you have to lie motionless with your arms above your head. Today the tech was very friendly.  I must confess I am always trying to read the tech's when I go for these tests.  Last time she was very quiet and hardly looked at me and I immediately thought....It's bad and she just can't look at me.  Today she was so chipper I thought...It's bad and she's just trying to make me feel good!  The truth of the matter is she probably doesn't even know what the scan says as it's the radiologist that reads it.  Logic tells me this but my wild imagination seems to take over in times of stress!  Oh well....it's done and it will be what it is.  I won't know the results for a couple of weeks so in the meantime I am going to thoroughly enjoy my time of no chemo and go to Vegas with my daughter and have a great mini holiday!!!

A friend shared this poem with me yesterday....thought I'd leave it with you as I really loved it!

“I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. 
I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.
I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life. 
I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life."
I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. 
I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. 
I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. 
I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. 
I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. 
I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. 
I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” 

Thursday 21 March 2013

No pills today!  Oh my goodness....what a treat.  Normally on the day of my chemo I would have to take a total of nine pills!  It kind of felt weird this morning to just eat my breakfast and not have to worry about popping pills.  I actually have put the pill bag into the cupboard out of sight....out of mind!
Tomorrow of course is my favourite event....the PET scan but I am trying to talk myself into actually looking forward to it.  It's going to be good!  Honestly, I'm not having a lot of luck with that self talk but I am truly trying.  The whole procedure just leaves me cold.  First the injection and the hour of sitting in a darkened room, no reading, no iphone, no music....resting, then the 30 minutes in the tube lying totally motionless....yuk!  Thank goodness I'm not clausterphobic.  That would be really tough but I think they sedate you if you have that problem.  Maybe I should be claustrophobic come to think of it....might be more fun!

Thanks to all who continue to donate to my Ride To Conquer Cancer.  I'm slowly creeping up on my goal which is less ambitious than the other members of my family.  I'll just be happy to raise the required $2500.  They all went much bigger!  I have so enjoyed your messages that have accompanied your donations and want to share them with everyone.
-Good for you Leslie...Glad you're feeling up to it, but remember you don't have to "race" this one!
-Just go out and have FUN!  Bravo to you Leslie!
-You go girl!
-Keep the wind at your back.  Have a great ride!
-Woo hoo Leslie.....ride your little butt off...
-You rock Mrs. Sherlock.  Go Leslie Go.
-Half the money is from the kids charity fund and we matched their amount.  We're so proud of you!
-Good luck with the ride Les.  Hope the weather cooperates this year.
-Way to go Leslie.  We're so proud of you for participating!

Thanks so much for those words!  I enjoyed every single message, however, I really do have to comment on the one that really struck a chord!  Special thanks to Hannah and Jack Doduck, two of my former students.  I am so impressed that you set money aside for charity and that you chose to sponsor me this year.  Apparently the kids put $1.00 aside each week from their allowance to donate to a charity of their choice.  I am their charity this year!  Such an important thing to teach our children....the act of being generous and giving to others.  When I taught at Ranchlands I saw many parents doing a commendable job of setting this example for their kids.  I read once that kids who are taught this and practice it will grow up continuing to do so.

Went to my Hot Yoga class today.  I actually think I'm getting better at it.  Today we were breathing into our hamstrings (haven't got that one figured out yet) and were doing "kind" stretches.  There is nothing kind about stretching for my body!  Every so often I have to make a concerted effort to adjust my face when I realize I am grimacing and probably look like I am experiencing extreme pain!  This stretching, yoga stuff does not come easy for me, that's for sure.

Hoping this little return to winter is brief.  This morning I opened an email from my friend Maureen who is now in Maui for a month.  She told me about the baby whales learning to jump and snorkelling and seeing turtles and eels etc.  And here I am stuck in the deep freeze!  Brrrrr.......I'd rather be there!

Wednesday 20 March 2013

Wednesday.....my day to see my oncologist. I have been trying to get ahold of his nurse all week as I was scheduled for chemo tomorrow.  My understanding was that I would do three rounds of chemo then have a scan to see where we were at.  Tomorrow would have been the start of cycle four.  Sure enough, the booking of this chemo was a mistake and my doctor cancelled it pending the results of the PET scan which I am having on Friday.  An added bonus.....he said I could also take a break for a couple of weeks from the oral chemo I take every day.  Yahoo!!!!  I know when I was off everything for the few weeks around my last surgery I noticed a big difference in how I felt.  I am looking forward to this chemo holiday!  I haven't seen Dr. Easaw in quite some time as his resident seems to have taken over my case.  Today, however, it was he who we saw and I must say it was nice to see him.  He is blown away by how well I'm doing and just about fell off his chair when I told him I had been skiing and had signed up for the Ride To Conquer Cancer.  Once he regained his balance though he had a smile a mile wide!  He gave me a travel letter for when Kelli and I go to Vegas next week.  I told him about my experience at the border coming back from Whitefish the last time I had travelled to the States after having a PET and mentionned also that I had friends whose brothers' plane was surrounded on the airport tarmac when he landed in Seattle after having a PET.   Believe me....the Americans have incredible scanning equipment and the radioactive stuff they inject into you for the scans seems to set off all bells and whistles!!

We came home and Boomer and I headed off to Nose Hill for a walk in the beautiful sunshine.  I just needed some time to be by myself.  I am certainly anxious about the PET as I always am but inside I feel guardedly optimistic that it will be a good one.  Having said that, one still has that little bit of worry that things won't be as hoped.  I must say though I have learned not to fret too much over these things.  They are what they are and I just have to deal with them as they happen.  The walk was really a good chance to think about things and feel happy that I don't have to take my dexamethazone tonight!  Boomer too was in heaven.  Everything is melting.  There were giant puddles everywhere and I don't think he missed walking through one of them.  That and the fact that everything is thawing and there were all kinds of nasty things to smell and roll in with great joy!  When he rolls, he really gets into it.....first a real good sniff then head and ears to the ground, followed by the shoulders then right down and a real good wiggle on your back making sure to really get that aroma right into every single hair follicle!  Hmmm hmmmm......doggie perfume!  Not one humans like but apparently other dogs find it quite lovely!  He was sniffed from nose to tail by every canine in the park!  Right now he has been banished to the back deck and I'm not even sure I want him in the house at all.  What is it I love about that dog???

Dad has moved back out to the lake!  He loaded up his new Rav yesterday and headed out.  I must say I am looking forward to getting out my golf clubs and heading out there myself.  Spring fever is striking!

Tuesday 19 March 2013

March 19!!  Today would have been my Mom's birthday.  I'm trying to think how old she would have been and am thinking it would have been her 82nd birthday!  Hard to believe where the years have gone!  Often I get messages from people commenting on my positive outlook and strength.  The truth of the matter is I had a good teacher.  My Mom was diagnosed with non-hodgkins lymphoma.  The year my Mom got sick, she and my Dad were down in the States escaping our Canadian winter.  Mom got very sick and the medical people down there recommended she return to Canada.  Shortly after her return home she was diagnosed with lymphoma.  We were told there was no cure for the disease but that many people responded well to treatment and could last many years.  I only saw my Mom cry once and that was the day she told us about her diagnosis, apologizing for what she would be putting us through. At the time I could not even believe that this would be her main concern but now I totally get it.  I hate what my family has had to go through.  I fully understand their worry and their watchfulness over me.  Mom got down to the business of getting her treatments.  She actually looked forward to her chemo appointments, viewing them as her arsenal that was going to blast that cancer!  There was the odd time they wouldn't not administer the chemo when her bloodwork came back low and she actually got depressed that they would not give her the drugs.  She bounced back for awhile, continued to enjoy her golf, cooked many family dinners for us, and continued to spoil us with her cinnamon buns and apple pies.  I think we all thought she would be one of those people that would just trundle on managing her cancer for a long, long time so it was quite a shock when she started to slide.  I will never forget the phone call on my birthday when she told me she wasn't feeling well.  A few days later Dad brought her in from the lake to get checked.  Not feeling well was the understatement!  I suspect she hadn't felt well for awhile but didn't share it with the rest of us until she couldn't hide it any longer.  She spent six weeks in the Foothills Hospital trying a new regime of chemo.  It was a difficult six weeks for all of us but I think we all hoped the new chemo would do the trick.  Unfortunately it did not and the doctors told us that they had exhausted their options.  They told us Mom could go home and we asked if we could take her out to Windermere, a place she loved.  They said we should go as soon as possible which told us we didn't have much time with her.  We took her there and she had the chance to go out to the golf course to visit her friends, she sat in the back yard and admired Dad's begonias and just soaked up the place she loved and called home!  It really was a bitter sweet time for all of us.  One morning my Dad asked me if I wanted to go out early to the golf course and play some golf.  We slipped out before Mom was awake and left her and my brother at home.  It was a cool August morning and we decided to play the back nine because there wouldn't be any people there yet.  I had not brought my clubs so was using moms'.  We got to hole 13 which is a par three that crosses the Columbia River. I remember stepping up to the tee box and hitting the ball with Moms four iron!  Dad and I watched it sail across the river, land on the green and roll in the hole.  We both looked at each other, tears streaming down our faces.  When we arrived back to the house I sat down beside Mom and said "Mom, you won't believe what your four iron did this morning!"  She just grinned from ear to ear......
"Fancy that!"    We were only there for a few days when we realized we needed to return to Calgary. Time was slowly running out and we all knew it.  Mom passed away on August 29th.  She was a wonderful Mother and wife and an amazing grandma!   She loved us, her family and left us with so many memories.  I still miss her and it has been 11 years!!!  Love you Mom....and on this day....your birthday I know we will all be thinking about you and missing you!


Monday 18 March 2013

Off to the Tom Baker this morning for my weekly hydration.  I'm always a little grumpy on the days I have to go there.  It would appear that Ivy has become my personal nurse.  I get her almost every time.  Last week she had some problems getting my IV started....this week much better.  A neat thing happened in the Daycare today.  A lady arrived with a very large carrot cake and a flat of coke for the nurses and patients.  It was her last of 21 chemo's!  She also had a file of letters from all around the world from friends and family thanking the nurses for saving her life!  There is a large bell sitting on the counter that you get to ring on your last day of chemo and she was very excited to ring that bell today!  I was so happy for her, but I also couldn't help thinking how badly I want to ring that bell!

I left the Tom Baker feeling absolutely frozen.  For some reason whenever I get hydration I get the chills.  I was debating whether or not to go to the club for a workout and then decided that would be a great way to kick start my metabolism and get myself warmed up. While I was riding the bike I was watching the news.  I could not believe it.  They now have a channel for canines to help dogs when they are left home alone to alleviate the stress and boredom dogs experience when left on their own.  For heavens sake....I didn't even think dogs could see images on a TV screen.  I know Boomer never pays any attention to it at all.  I also know exactly what he does when left home alone.....he sleeps!  I cannot believe anyone would leave a TV on to entertain their dogs while they are off at work.  Unbelievable!   Did my time on the bike, a few weights and hit the steam room.  All in all good warm up therapy and by the time I was done, the chills were gone!

I had a visit with a friend who is contemplating purchasing a bike this weekend.  For those Honey Badgers who do not have a bike (there are a few) or who are planning to upgrade their bikes, apparently Bow Cycle has a sale on this weekend.  Might be some good buys!  At least it's worth a look.  This same friend was asking me about the ride today and it occurred to me that I have appealed to people for donations with no explanation as to what the ride is all about.  I guess I just assumed that everyone knew but perhaps I should explain it a little better.  The Ride To Conquer Cancer is one of the biggest fundraisers for Cancer Research.  People must raise a minimum of $2500 to participate in the ride.  They have the option of riding as individuals or on teams and can dedicate their rides to people they are supporting.  100% of the money raised in donations goes to research.  None of it goes to administrative costs which is excellent compared to many charity fundraisers out there.  The ride itself is sponsored by Enbridge and each rider must pay a $75 fee to participate.  Cyclists ride a total distance of 220 km over two days.  This years route is new and heads west towards Canmore and then back to Calgary on Day 2.  My son Geoff started a team last year and named them the "Honey Badgers".  He dedicated the ride to me and the team raised $80,000!  This year many of the same "Honey Badgers" are returning to ride once again with the goal to raise $100,000!  Bill, Geoff and Lindsey, Kelli and Mike and I are all riding.  There are other "families" joining our group as well. ..  Maureen, her husband Duane and their kids Mark and Danielle and Jenifer, Trevor and Krista.  I can't even begin to express how this makes me feel!  I honestly don't know if I will be able to complete the entire distance but I am going to give it my best shot!  Last year as Maureen and I drove along the route I saw many bikes with yellow flags identifying riders who were cancer survivors.  I want to join these people and show my support!  Thanks to each of you who has contributed to our fundraising efforts.  I want to stress that the amount is not important....every little bit helps us reach our goal.  It makes me think of all the Terry Fox Runs I have organized over the years.  I told my students the same thing and it always made me smile when a little person brought in a bag of pennies from their piggy bank or donated some of their birthday money.  Those small gifts meant a lot and they were gifts from the heart!

Each rider on the team has their story and reason for participating in the ride.  If you have time it is worthwhile to read their personal page as to why they are doing the ride.  Very few of us have not had personal experiences with cancer whether it be ourselves or a friend or family member.  Hopefully the dollars we are able to raise will aide in finding a cure and new and better treatments for this terrible disease!



Sunday 17 March 2013

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!  Gotta make sure I wear green today....especially since we are going to my cousins house for dinner and they are staunch supporters of St. Patrick's Day!  I sure don't want my skinny ass pinched....it'll hurt!



I was up with full intentions of heading to the Winter Club to ride the bike this morning but the longer I sit here and look outside, the less I want to go.  Bill did the morning walk this morning so I haven't even ventured outside.  I think I'm going to ride my bike in the basement today and skip going out until later today.  What a wimp!!!

I have been discovered on my intent to ride in the Ride To Conquer Cancer.  I kept waiting for just the right moment to break the news to Bill, knowing he was going to be very unimpressed.  He is a bit of a mother hen and I know he worries about me constantly.  I know if I could put a few pounds on he'd be a lot happier.  In any case, it was really quite funny how it all came about.  We were sitting at the kitchen table, drinking coffee and reading the paper when our front doorbell rang.  I went and opened the door and there was our old neighbour and friend, Ross, cheque in hand.  In his big booming voice he said that he and Sandra really wanted to support me on my ride and wanted to give me a cheque!  I could just feel Bill's eyes boaring into my back!  The secret was out!  Just goes to show you deception never pays off and you usually do get caught!  Well, I turned around....laughed and confessed.  He just shook his head and said he wasn't impressed!  Oh well....he knows me and I know that he knew I was going to do this.  I knew if I told him before I actually signed up he would do his best to try to talk me out of it.....My kids on the other hand are totally supportive and excited that I've  joined the team, even though I think I've honed in on some of their fundraising possibilities. I have had all sorts of messages of support..... Thanks to those of you who recognize my need and desire to do this!   We all know the fundraising is going to be a challenge with six of us in the mix!  My friend Kathy just laughed and said we could just make a $10,000 donation to the Ride to Conquer Cancer.  We have all made donations to each other which is kind of funny but certainly not to the tune of $10,000!!!

So.....time to head to the basement and do my time on the bike!  Then I'll eat a high calorie lunch!!!

Saturday 16 March 2013

It is a hard day to feel inspired to leave the house.  I was out for a short walk with Boomer this morning and will need to get out a couple more times with him today but that will be about it.  It's a good day to just stay home and putter.

Last night we went to the Flames game with Brian and Brenda!  A good game.  The team actually looked pretty good and it's always fun when there are lots of goals!  I'm thinking I should contact the Flames and let them in on why they are winning.  It's my magic jersey!!!  It had one bad night but is three for four so far which is pretty darn good if you ask me!!!

Thanks to all who have contributed to my bike ride.  A few old faithfuls and some pleasant surprises!  I had to laugh last night when I had a look.....I had a donation from Boomer!!!   To those of you who read this blog....not to worry, I'm not going to flog my cause here.  I've probably done that enough already, but it is an easy way to thank people who are helping me out.
My Terry Fox Shoes.....

These are the actual model of shoes Terry used on his Marathon of Hope.  I won them in a draw one year and only wear them on very special occasions!  May just wear them for my PET scan next week!
I am finding having a goal to work towards other than "getting healthy" is really motivating me to both eat and exercise.  I know if I am going to be biking I need to up my caloric intake so have really been focussing on trying to do this.  One of the after effects of my first surgery is that I no longer experience the sensation of being hungry.  It's weird...I just have to eat because I know I have to eat but honestly I do miss feeling hungry.  I have two friends who are joining me....Maureen and Jenifer.  I don't think either of them is overly enthusiastic but being the good sports they are they are throwing their hats into the ring!

So stay warm....and if you don't have a dog....give thanks....you can stay inside!  And to those friends who are in warmer places.....stay put!  Don't come home until you have to!

Friday 15 March 2013

Many thanks to those of you who have already contributed to my fundraising for the Ride To Conquer Cancer. It is hard to ask for your support when many of you have given so much of yourselves over the past year and a half.  With all six of us taking part in the ride, the fundraising is going to be challenging for all of us as we have a common base of friends and family.  I am justifiably nervous about both raising the $2500 required to participate,  and about the ride itself but am also excited to not be on the sidelines.  You know me....always want to be in the thick of it!

I must say I'm not really enjoying this return to winter.  It is so brutally cold out there and the roads, sidewalks and pathways are just treacherous.  I have had several close calls with wipe outs just walking Boomer.  I had a laugh out loud moment this morning as we were walking along the top of the ravine.  I was walking along gingerly and looked ahead just in time to see Boomer taking his morning squat on the side of the hill.  He must have chosen a particularily icey spot because just as he got himself into the squat position he took off like he was on a toboggan.  Poor guy, he slid a good ten feet down the hill, maintaining the squat all the way!  Shook him up so badly, he couldn't finish what he had started!

I got back home and decided to fill the bird feeder.  When we were visiting my brother it was neat to sit drinking my morning coffee looking at the vast variety of birds that visit their bird feeders.  Mind you, they have a varied menu available to the birds....suet, sunflower seeds, peanuts, finch seed, etc. which attracts the variety of birds they get.  I just have a bag of wild bird seed.  Still, I was inspired to entice the birds to my feeder so filled the feeder and sprinkled some on the ground for the bigger birds who can't land on the bar of our small feeder.  I came inside, got my coffee and parked myself at the kitchen table.  About half an hour later the birds arrived.  Five magpies, two crows and four pigeons!  Hmmm.... a far cry from the red poles, the jays, the finches, etc. that Kevin and Michelle attract.

Well, it's a good morning to hit the gym so think I'll get going before I lose my enthusiasm.  We are off to the Flames game again tonight with friends Brian and Brenda!  Hoping that Jersey of mine still has a little luck in it!  So much more fun when they win!




Thursday 14 March 2013

Today I bit the bullet and decided to tackle one of my least favourite jobs....and one I really should do more often....clean my fridge!  Not just wipe it but empty it and really clean it and take a look at what's been hiding out in there.  Oh my goodness.  The usual problem I have.  Eight bottles of different barbecue sauces, 2 bottles of Thousand Island Salad dressing, 3 bottles of Worchestire Sauce, 2 bottles of Mint Sauce etc. etc.  No wonder my fridge seems full all the time!  Consolidated things as best as I could and scrubbed everything down.  The whole process took 2.5 hours!

It sure is cold out there and the footing is treacherous!  Kelli is working at the urgent care center in Cochrane and I'm sure she'll see a few broken bones from people falling on this stuff.  I decided that I had two options today.  Stay home and stay warm or go to Hot Yoga.  I was definitely sitting on the fence then heard from both my friend Marian and from Kelli that they were going to go so decided I would too!  Good choice.  I really enjoyed the class and think I am actually starting to get a little better at it.  Still want to laugh when the instructor tells us to "breathe into our glutes or walk your sternum forward".  How the heck do you do that!?  "Breathe into your kidneys".....give me a break!

So.... I bit the bullet and signed up for the Ride To Conquer Cancer.  There were only 300 spots left and we had a bunch of people join our team so I figured it would be the same for other teams. I'm pretty sure the ride is going to be full pretty quick.   I talked my friend Maureen into joining me. She is a true blue friend.  I'm sure this is not something she wants to do but for me she will!   We will definitely be at the back of the pack and both of us wonder if we have lost our marbles.  Maureen actually had a dream last night that she had to ride a tricycle through the Rocky Mountains.  That may very well be what it feels like!  Our team is up to 25 people now which is awesome but there is always room for more.....so if you feel like joining us.....????  My entire family is now in this together.  Geoff and Lindsey, Kelli and Mike and Bill and I.  This is going to make our fundraising very challenging as we have a common base of people to ask for support.  So.....if you have already sponsored someone, please don't sponsor me!  But if you haven't yet I would really appreciate your support if you feel this is a cause you would like to get behind.  I haven't yet confessed to Bill that I'm going to do this but I have been dropping hints here and there for a couple of weeks.  Just trying to ease him into the idea.  Yesterday, when I woke up the first thing I saw were my Terry Fox Runners that sit on my dresser in my bedroom.  I thought to myself.....that young man ran a marathon every single day on an artificial leg.  If he could do that.....I can do this!