Minnie,

Thanks for the encouraging words - thought I'd tell you I think Sept 25th is a good date too-that's just 3 days before my wedding anniversary - 23 years this year. September is one of my favorite months of the year. I sure don't know how you managed to go back to school wtih 6 children at home and then one on the way-you are definitely one strong lady! It's been hard enough with just one left at home (he's 15), one that just started college (she's 18) and one that just graduated college (she's 22). Of course, I turn my phone on silent when I go into class and everytime I check it after a class, one of the girl's has called and when I call them back,they're somewhat aggravated that I didn't answer the first time! They are so used to me being here for them whenever they need me, they don't like having to wait! They're starting to get a little better and both have told me they are proud of what I'm trying to do, so it's all good. My son likes to compete with me on grades, which is not so bad because he is actually studying more and his grades have been higher than usual.

I actually told someone yesterday that this surgery and new treatment was "just a bump in the road", so we are on the same wavelength there. Did you sleep any better last night? I have slept through the past 2 nights finally and I haven't cried any the past 2 days. I think Tuesday was my main breakdown day and I have been better since then. Please try to eat well between now and the 25th. I know you have lots of coaches and cheerleaders helping you in that department! I have to really push myself in that area because I don't get hungry and it's still not an easy, automatic thing for me to do. I have swallowing issues since radiation -I can eat pretty well as long as it's carefully planned and I have lots of time. I can't eat on the run nor is there any mindless snacking. I used to be an eater whenever I was stressed and I don't have that crutch anymore. So just be sure to eat and get some good nutrition in your body.

Brenda, thank you for your kind words - I know you are going through some tough times as well. I have been doing some deep breathing when I feel panicky and it does help. I am going to do a little hiking this weekend and that always makes me feel better to be in the great outdoors and I live in a beautiful part of the country - lots of lakes, hiking trails, etc. I wish you all the best with your treatment-take care and keep on posting. This new board is a great avenue to get some of these scared feelings out in the open and I am grateful for it. Thanks to Brian for adding it.

Pam