tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56152461588718766292024-03-12T23:48:24.034-05:00GBG is a BrainiacS. Farrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00028657397252803067noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-74900081716485887192009-08-09T13:08:00.002-05:002009-08-09T13:19:16.556-05:00Over and Out ...It seems to me that no news is good news - and that's about where I am. I am back at work, feeling fine and more appreciative than ever for all my great friends. Thanks to everyone who has been so attentive during my "brain issues." The calls, cards, well wishes and, yes, the food was wonderful. I loved the anticipation of waiting for the dinner delivery each night. <div><br /></div><div>However, at this point, I think that the time has come for me to stop the updates - there's just not that much to say. I do hope that you all will continue to keep me in your thoughts and prayers - this isn't over yet, of course - it's just that I'm so much better!<div><br /></div><div>If you're interested, send me an e-mail - I promise that I will answer. We have some exciting times coming up - two weddings and more. During all of this, I'll continue with the oral chemo and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that all continues to go well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks one more time to all of my wonderful friends and family - I've loved having your support!</div><div><br /></div><div>Think Happy Thoughts -</div><div>xxx from the Brainiac</div></div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-49439644519269517482009-08-03T18:23:00.002-05:002009-08-03T18:40:44.705-05:00THE SHOWER!!!This weekend we celebrated Tiffany - it was her wedding shower and my mother, sisters and daughter arrived in town on Friday evening just in time for a nice dinner out and then back for bedtime. We were up early for a visit and bagels and then we all had to rush around - sharing the bathrooms, etc. to get ready for the party.<div><br /></div><div>We had a car full of people and presents, too. The shower was so nice - I enjoyed watching Tiffany and her mom and sister as they greeted friends and then opened the presents. Tiffany got lots of things that she asked for - those wedding registries are the best! One of the nice things about them is that they stay up for a while after the wedding so you can go back and order gifts for birthdays, anniversaries and the holidays. Right now, it's just hard to believe how close the big day is!</div><div><br /></div><div>All my guests left shortly after the party, leaving the rest of the weekend for me to rest up again for the week. And, the week has started - there's lots to do and we're always busy. I am feeling better all the time - still working on my energy, but basically doing very well. Today, I entered the next round of my doctor appointments into the calendar - those seem to never end. </div><div><br /></div><div>Clif is off to Chicago for a meeting with a group he belongs to - he leaves very early on Wednesday and returns on Sunday. Brian is in charge of taking me to and fro - I know he's excited about that! Just think - I'm down to less than two months until I can drive again - but who's counting!</div><div><br /></div><div>No more news from me - all's well on the Brainiac front and I hope that you and yours are doing well, too. Have a great week -</div><div><br /></div><div>xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-59019966271976716802009-07-26T20:52:00.002-05:002009-07-26T21:04:55.942-05:00Good News This Week!I've been kinda dreading this week - it was one with numerous doctor appointments plus an MRI and cognitive testing. But, at the end, there was great news for me - Dr. Conrad said that things are looking good. He says that he doesn't usually see much progress this soon, but that the MRI shows good results. Things are shrinking up there and I'm certainly glad to hear it. I'm still on the oral chemo, thank goodness - it's so much easier than being hooked up to a pole to get it!<div><br /></div><div>We made a quick trip to Dallas this weekend - all my MOG clothes were ready and I had to go try them on for alterations. I had my favorite Goff's burger, saw my parents and sister and brother-in-law and stayed with my daughter - all in all, a nice trip. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight we had dinner out with Brian and Tiffany and Braden, too - he was in town for Brian's bachelor party, but heads back to Seattle early in the morning. We were adding up all the times we have and will see him this year - pretty impressive!</div><div><br /></div><div>Now I have to turn over my computer to let him check his e-mail, etc. - and, besides that, it's time for me to say night night.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope everyone had a great weekend - </div><div><br /></div><div>Love from the improving Brainiac!!!</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-80502477908229767382009-07-20T21:11:00.002-05:002009-07-20T21:30:07.121-05:00It Was My Birthday ...and we really had a good time. My nearest and dearest celebrated with me at the Hyatt's Lost Pines Resort for a long weekend - we sang "Happy Birthday" more times than I can remember. There was lots of good food, some spirited happy hours for those who could imbibe and even lots of presents for the birthday girl. I truly can't remember when I've had a celebration like this one - made hitting my 6th decade a little easier to handle.<div><br /></div><div>This year I had more to celebrate than usual. I must say that I was happy to be here for this. It is a milestone year - and I imagine that my little incident may have prompted this great party. However, we have set the standards high so now I am looking forward to having both of my sisters reach this special age. I can't wait to see what kind of fun we'll have then!</div><div><br /></div><div>The birthday continued back at the office today with petit fours and more with my team. We tried to watch this incredible slide show that my sister Shannon created, but it wouldn't run - however, the photos were all there so I provided the narration. We missed the music from "Patton," but the "Little General" managed to get the theme across!</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, this was the best birthday I can remember and I know that I have my whole family to thank for that! The lesson in this is to be sure to celebrate with those you love while you have them with you - you'll never regret it!</div><div><br /></div><div>So, just one last time ... </div><div>Happy Birthday to me,</div><div>Happy Birthday to me.<br /></div><div>Happy Birthday dear Gaillllllllllllllllll,<br /></div><div>Happy Birthday to me!<br /></div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-32109523853135369522009-07-12T16:55:00.002-05:002009-07-12T17:27:57.704-05:00Happy Birthday, Mom B!This is the month of the birthdays - it starts on July 5 with my mother's big day, then July 7 belongs to my son's fiance and July 9 is my mother-in-law's. We celebrated this last one BIG - it was her 90th - a very important day. We had most of the family in for dinner at Vargo's, a longtime favorite of hers. They sat us downstairs in a semi-private area and there was a piano player there, too. He came around and visited the table and took requests - ours was, of course, "Happy Birthday" plus a lot of the tunes from the 40s. The dinner was great - just what we were hoping for - and then we went back to the "Media Room" at the Terrace where Mom B lives. Once there, we showed tons of pictures from the past thanks to the scanning abilities of my husband, enjoyed a delicious birthday cake and champagne toast and then passed out photo memory books created from Kodak Gallery. It was a very late night and the birthday girl was definitely fading by the time it was over, but I know she had a great time. <div><br /></div><div>Now we need to rest up for my own celebration next weekend. It's the big 6-0 for me and Clif is taking me for a weekend of rest and relaxation with our whole family at the new Hyatt Lost Pines Resort near Austin. I won't be participating in any champagne toasts, but I'm really at the point where I think cold water and an occasional Diet Coke taste pretty good. Our Seattle son and his fiance will be celebrating with us - and then Braden will come back to Texas the next weekend for Brian's bachelor party. It's a very busy month!</div><div><br /></div><div>August doesn't slow down much - the festivities for Brian's and Tiffany's wedding gear up - there's a shower and the bridesmaids' luncheon - and then Brian and Braden celebrate their 30th! My friend Maggi is in New Hampshire where there are so many birthdays that they are having a "Decades of Decadence" party. Maybe we should have done that for all of our parties - one huge celebration might have done the trick. Then again, it's kinda fun having all these parties.</div><div><br /></div><div>The good news is that I am feeling significantly better. While I'm not totally back to "normal," I really think I can see a lot of improvement. My energy is still a challenge, but I find myself doing things that I know I wouldn't have been able to manage a few weeks ago. I have some testing and doctor appointments lined up this week and next - that keeps me busy, too. I think that I'm going to be in good shape by the fall. All of this is still hard to believe - I can't answer the questions about why this happened to me, but I continue to feel grateful that I work at the #1 cancer center in the world and and feel so lucky to be on the receiving end of the very special care offered to me here. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now, as we go into the middle of July, please just try to stay cool - it's hot out there!</div><div>I'm still celebrating! - xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-92043022690112110442009-07-05T19:20:00.002-05:002009-07-05T19:47:19.716-05:00SUCCESS!!!It was a very successful weekend in Big D! First of all, I got to chow down on my very favorite hamburger - a #10 Goff burger. We went straight to Goff's from the airport and then hit the trail in search of my MOG outfit. <div><br /></div><div>My sisters had discovered what they thought was the perfect store: totally my style, gorgeous fabrics and relatively reasonable prices. They were on the mark and I left with a rehearsal dinner outfit and an outfit for Brian's wedding and also one for Braden's. There was a lot of trying on, which was an exhausting exercise, but very worth it because I accomplished what I went for. Everything should be ready in about three weeks and then we go for alterations. It will all be complete just in time for the big occasion in September - and, of course, for Braden's wedding in April (or maybe May - date is still being worked on).</div><div><br /></div><div>We had a wonderful southern-style dinner with my parents and sister Kim and her husband on Friday night. I can't remember when I have had so many of my favorite foods in one day - the burger, cornbread and even pie for dessert. After a good night's rest, Mother, Daddy and I got up bright and early on July 4th and went to the local neighborhood parade - from fancy cars to politicians to candy, families and fun, it was a great occasion. We went back to rest up and Clif finally arrived about 1 p.m. Then we had barbeque from Daddy's newly found joint, Off the Bone. The day was topped off by watching the local fireworks from my parent's balcony in conjunction with the Boston Pops on TV - plenty of stars and stripes!</div><div><br /></div><div>Today, July 5, was my mother's birthday and Kim cooked a fabulous cold lunch - only topped by her table setting. We had a great celebration before we had to leave to come home to Houston. Tomorrow, it's back to work - but we have lots more celebrating to do this month: Clif's mother's birthday next weekend and then mine the week after that. There are a few others in the next few weeks, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, light the candles and say hooray! I'm feeling like a party!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>xxx from the recovering Brainiac</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-28366911572098452832009-06-28T16:28:00.002-05:002009-06-28T16:49:31.868-05:00Week 3 Begins Tomorrow ...It's hard to believe that I will start my third week back at work tomorrow. For the most part, everything has gone just fine - I've answered all the e-mails, returned lots of phone calls and hugged many, many friends as I've passed them in the halls. My amazing colleague made a list of all the projects still in play and we divided them up. Basically, if it has to do with social media or Web sites or medical news in the Children's Cancer Hospital, it belongs to Sara. I've got a couple of newsletters, multiple events and the Children's Art Project back on my plate. The good news is that there are no looming deadlines, which gives the ol' Brainiac an opportunity to get back in the groove.<div><br /></div><div>I made another trip across the street on Friday - had to attend the CCH Beach Bash. Though I was hoping to get a tan, it just didn't happen. However, I felt lucky to make it back to the office - WOW, it is hot out there. I'm trying to work out some transportation that will get me to meetings and events over in the main bldg. - at least for a while - but so far I've had no luck. The shuttle service is not optimal from my bldg. - thought I might twist their arms to beef it up or at least allow me to use the "Special Request" shuttle, but that doesn't seem to comply with the rules. I'm going to push a little harder next week and try to make that happen.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have a trip to Dallas on the calendar for next weekend. My sisters and mother have found "the perfect place" for me to get a mother-of-the-groom dress so I'm going to go shop and see if this is indeed a fact. I'm hoping so because I've not seen much here in Houston (not that I've done all that much shopping, but ...). It would be super to cross this off of my to-do list. I also need to start thinking about the other little details for the rehearsal dinner - like the invitations. I do have a little time on this, but not much. I was so on schedule until I got sidetracked on April 1. At least I can be thankful that we had the location and the menu lined up before I had so many other things to think about.</div><div><br /></div><div>This week should be better than the last two - I am very slowly regaining my energy and getting up and about helps this. Oh, I just finished round 2 of the oral chemo - so far, so good so keep your fingers crossed!</div><div><br /></div><div>Stay cool and don't fry your brain - xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-57447300072202075922009-06-24T19:13:00.002-05:002009-06-24T19:26:50.455-05:00Full Time - What Was I Thinking?You know that it's just too much when you start counting down the minutes! I've had three full days back at work this week and all three afternoons I've been guilty of watching the clock. But, it's getting better - I know it is.<div><br /></div><div>Today, I had a meeting across the street. I had the luxury of being driven over, but I had to walk back. That was actually a good thing because I got some exercise, but boy oh boy, it was an exhausting trip back to the office. It was long and it was hot. However, I was with my colleague who was smart enough to bring along her purse so we (really she because I sat on a bench on the skywalk while she went down to get it) picked up lunch on the way back. That was a nice treat!</div><div><br /></div><div>There's lots to catch up on at the office - e-mails and projects and just things in general that have happened while I was out. It's good to be back with people again - and good to be feeling good, too. Now if it would just get a little cooler outside, I think I'd be pretty happy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Summer - gbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-49225537719892217792009-06-20T16:47:00.002-05:002009-06-20T17:03:19.567-05:00Happy Anniversary!Today's the day - 39 years of wedded bliss. We're celebrating with a dinner out and I've been resting up so I can make it through the night.<div><br /></div><div>The day has been busy - we (me and my trusty driver Clif) started by picking up a lamp that I had taken in for repair and then went on to purchase part 2 of my sister's birthday gift. Then we went to 4 different places to check out possibilities for a mother-of-the-groom outfit. In between, we stopped at Kenny & Ziggy's to split a pastrami sandwich - I even turned down a piece of pie in hopes that I will still be hungry for dinner tonight.</div><div><br /></div><div>As for the outfit, this was just the initial exploration. I still have a few other places to visit and I also need to wait for the bride's mother to make her choice before I decide. Of course my husband thinks I should wear my mother-of-the-bride outfit - can't seem to make him understand that this just won't work. He also doesn't understand my reluctance to wear it to other occasions - as if there is another occasion worthy of this fine outfit. Instead, I just spend a lot of time looking at it :)</div><div><br /></div><div>I have my feet up, am feeling fine and am looking ahead to next week when I start round 2 of the oral chemo and also plan to be on a full time work schedule. Wish me luck.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Fathers' Day to all -</div><div>Your Friend, the Brainiac</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-695088702474833282009-06-19T17:47:00.002-05:002009-06-19T18:27:30.803-05:00TGIF !!!Yes, Thank God It's Friday. It's been a very long week, but thanks to my colleague Sara, you saw that I did make it back to the office.<div><br /></div><div>On Monday, I was greeted with a wonderful welcome - my office door was fitted with new "saloon doors" that supposedly opened to the Miller Lite Saloon. Inside, it was Party Barn Central with glitter everywhere, shiny stars hanging from the ceiling, a neon pink feather boa, blow-up microphones, a beach pail full of candy - it goes on and on. My door was covered with a photo essay of me wearing a variety of hats all photoshopped on - everything from Aretha's inaugural chapeau to the most bizarre headgear you've ever seen. The theme was the top seven things I would rather do than have brain surgery (I could actually take it a little further than seven, but this will do). After lots of hugs and good wishes from all my friends, we went around the corner for a delicious breakfast - all kinds of fruit, sweetrolls, muffins, an egg casserole, juice and more. I spent the majority of the day hugging old friends and answering e-mails - somewhat of a sensory overload, but so heartwarming. I was glad to be back!</div><div><br /></div><div>For the most part, I worked half days this week with the goal of full time next week. The exception to this was on Tuesday when I had some patient-related appointments across the street so I stayed for the afternoon. Clif was to pick me up at 5 p.m., but unfortunately he had a glitch with his day so it was 5:55 p.m. before he got there. I was pretty much a puddle and asleep by 7:30 that night. Speaking of Clif, he's been such a super sport about "driving Miss Crazy" this week. I know that I interrupt his work, but I sure appreciate him fetching me to and from. When he has conflicts, I have many offers from friends to help out.</div><div><br /></div><div>Still, what they say is right - and it's kind of backwards. The more I am up and about, the better I do. I have still been taking a nap every afternoon - deep, deep sleep for a couple of hours. I still have to make myself get up in the morning. And, an hour is still pretty much my max for continuous concentration. BUT, I can walk further and feel more upwardly mobile. That's a good thing!</div><div><br /></div><div>This week I had an appointment with Integrative Medicine to discuss my extreme fatigue and what I can do with diet and exercise to get my pep back. The diet recommended is mostly plant based - there was no mention of fried shrimp or chicken fried steak on this menu. Mostly, I'm to spend my shopping time wandering the aisles of Whole Foods in search of organic fruits and veggies. And, Whole Foods also has the supplements I'm supposed to be adding to my diet like B12 and flax seeds. In fact, it seems that almost everything I need is available there - and I can get some walking in, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>Next week I begin my second round of oral chemo. Keep your fingers crossed that it goes well. I'll also see my doctor again so maybe I'll have more news. In the meantime, I'll just keep on keepin' on. Thanks for being patient and checking in.</div><div><br /></div><div>xxx from your old friend, the Brainiac!</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-90557831123735857772009-06-17T15:42:00.011-05:002009-06-17T16:13:07.291-05:00Gail's ReturnHi everyone, <div></div><div>I haven't needed to post in a while since Gail has been doing such a great job of keeping up with her blogging. However, Monday was a big day for us at M. D. Anderson with Gail's return to work. I thought I would post some photos from that day. We're so happy to have her back! Thanks to all who helped decorate (you're so creative!), brought food and stopped by to welcome back Gail. Eli did a great job capturing the moment...these are just a few of the photos from the morning.</div><div></div><div>Sara</div><div><div><br /><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlW5Jfk1XI/AAAAAAAAAC0/Ks_TAF7_CUU/s1600-h/Gail_52.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348401572280063346" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlW5Jfk1XI/AAAAAAAAAC0/Ks_TAF7_CUU/s320/Gail_52.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlXTDX_aAI/AAAAAAAAAC8/M99zTUlRXw4/s1600-h/Gail_54.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348402017314236418" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlXTDX_aAI/AAAAAAAAAC8/M99zTUlRXw4/s320/Gail_54.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlXv70knvI/AAAAAAAAADE/yMQk2cdJ0G0/s1600-h/Gail_53.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348402513502838514" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlXv70knvI/AAAAAAAAADE/yMQk2cdJ0G0/s320/Gail_53.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlX_THicGI/AAAAAAAAADM/WrEsULZgmkQ/s1600-h/Gail_57.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348402777454440546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlX_THicGI/AAAAAAAAADM/WrEsULZgmkQ/s320/Gail_57.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="left"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/Sjla2Xr_2LI/AAAAAAAAADk/q0kyqB6ElfA/s1600-h/Gail_70.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348405922597165234" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/Sjla2Xr_2LI/AAAAAAAAADk/q0kyqB6ElfA/s320/Gail_70.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><div align="center"><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s1600-h/Gail_59.JPG"></a></div>(Gail demonstrating all of the lectures she has received about eating healthier and exercising)<br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s1600-h/Gail_59.JPG"></a></div><br /><div align="center"><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s1600-h/Gail_59.JPG"></a></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlZOVLds_I/AAAAAAAAADc/_q6T8lt62RU/s1600-h/Gail_71.JPG"></a></p></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s1600-h/Gail_59.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348403554832285490" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s320/Gail_59.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s1600-h/Gail_59.JPG"></a></div><br /><div align="center"><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s1600-h/Gail_59.JPG"></a></div><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlYsjE2_zI/AAAAAAAAADU/sIxhZYY9P8g/s1600-h/Gail_59.JPG"></a></div><br /><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="left"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlZOVLds_I/AAAAAAAAADc/_q6T8lt62RU/s1600-h/Gail_71.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348404135217443826" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_njAnIGoUFNg/SjlZOVLds_I/AAAAAAAAADc/_q6T8lt62RU/s320/Gail_71.JPG" border="0" /></a>(Note: She skipped the donuts and opted for fruit...doctors orders!)<br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div></div></div>S. Farrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00028657397252803067noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-60094684227504001432009-06-13T20:18:00.002-05:002009-06-13T20:29:36.615-05:00Just Saying HiIt's a lazy weekend - I'm working on a suitable mindset to go back to the office on Monday. Seems pretty weird since it's been almost two months. You can get into a lot of bad habits in two months!<div><br /></div><div>Brian came over today to work on clearing out his bedroom and there's a considerable amount of work to do. To be fair, most of it is not his fault - you can't imagine the things he found in there. Apparently, his father found a place to stash his stuff - interesting assortment of tools, camping gear, scouting items, holiday decor, etc. I'm left with a somewhat cleaner room (you can walk in it) and various piles around the house. Wonder where I'm going to put all of this now?</div><div><br /></div><div>Tomorrow I am going to decide what I'm wearing on Monday and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">contemplate</span> getting up lots earlier than I have been. I feel just fine - but occasionally I get this weird "fragile" feeling - this, too, will pass, I'm sure.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll let you know how it goes at the office - one thing's for sure: there will be a lot more people than I'm used to.</div><div><br /></div><div>Best - gbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-69762836944134370202009-06-12T14:22:00.002-05:002009-06-12T14:30:07.131-05:00Out On the Town ...Two special friends thought this would be the right day to nudge me towards civilization - and I think they made a good call.<div><br /></div><div>We had lunch at Nordstrom's bistro - yummy, yummy! It was fun to catch up with them and we discovered that between us we have two babies and three weddings coming up soon. I think we left feeling kinda old - or maybe responsible is a better word?</div><div><br /></div><div>On the way out, we stopped and all bought some cheap knockoff sunglasses. Now we are movie stars!</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm going to be resting up this weekend for my return to the office on Monday - this morning I had to stop to really think about what my office phone # is. Good news is that I remembered it without having to look at my business card - bodes well for the work I will be doing next week!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope that everyone has a great weekend - stay cool - xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-86670103169524425262009-06-11T11:38:00.002-05:002009-06-11T11:46:08.449-05:00Celebration Time!I have great news to share - and it's not about me. The last of the unattached Goodwins has taken the plunge:<div><br /></div><div>Braden Goodwin is engaged to Maren Van Sickel!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>We are so pleased to know that very soon we will move from six to seven (Brian and Tiffany - big day is 9/19/2009) and finally to eight (date TBD). We met Maren when Braden brought her to our nephew's wedding two years ago. She made an immediate positive impression - I knew she was "the one" right away - glad that Braden finally realized it, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great start to the weekend - just what I need to boost me towards a positive return to the office on Monday. Hard to believe that it's that time already.</div><div><br /></div><div>By the way, I am walking every night and working to get my energy back - hard to do when it's so hot out there!</div><div><br /></div><div>Best to all - gbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-52901259097044934782009-06-08T10:38:00.002-05:002009-06-08T10:56:53.457-05:00Countdown Week!It seems impossible that this is my last week at home in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">recuperation</span> mode. I am gearing myself up for the big return - getting ready and making myself presentable, what to do for lunch, how to launch back into the projects I left behind and - biggest question - how long can I sit in that desk chair? Next Monday will be a really big day for me!<div><br /></div><div>In the meantime, I'm going to do my best to get ready. I have been walking - and I have to say that I don't really like it. I know that I need to get some exercise, but I still don't like it. However, I've made it around the block the last three nights - cheers, please!!! I will admit that it's gotten a tiny bit easier, but not easy enough. I know, I know - that's going to come. Those of you who are always bugging me about this can relax - I know what I have to do.</div><div><br /></div><div>Clif and I are also practicing getting our own meals - kinda hard to do when you're used to delicious dinners being brought to the front door, but necessary nonetheless. Part of the problem is that healthy eating is especially important for me right now and healthy eating is not my habit. I having to forget my favorite pepperoni pizza and chicken fried steak and think more about fresh fruits and vegetables. Wonder what we'll have tonight - I just finished off the pineapple.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am turning the TV up loud - the next door neighbors are getting a new roof and it's noisy out there. This could be a good thing - might interfere with my afternoon nap :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Good day to all - gbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-64070115431497590252009-06-06T08:27:00.002-05:002009-06-06T08:47:10.278-05:00Heading to the NormalGood day yesterday with Mother and Kim - we picked up cute Sara Farris for lunch and enjoyed our Village visit. They returned me home for my afternoon nap and then hit the grocery store to pick up the dinner fixings. Cook Kim and Chef Sara (my mother) put dinner together and worked on cleaning out the frig (huge job!!!). <div><br /></div><div>Kim also tackled the parlor, hauling out things I haven't seen in forever - they're gone now :) This was a trip back to the past - Sara Kate's Beanie Babies, little, tiny purses and even a dress I bought for her to wear to the senior prom that went through many alterations, but never made the cut. We also found enormous numbers of Children's Art Project t-shirts and Children's Cancer Hospital polos - not sure yet what to do with these. There were also plenty of Boy Scout shirts, ski gear and weird odds and ends - debate still going on about the fate of these things, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>Brian and Tiffany came over for a delicious dinner - it was a Braden favorite: flank steak with zucchini casserole and some special rice. Dessert was some chocolate treats, which arrived just in time yesterday afternoon (thanks Katrina!). Haven't had this meal in forever - we all enjoyed it! </div><div><br /></div><div>I have to add this part - we finished the night with a brief walk - and only because I promised. I imagine that I'll be hitting the pavement pretty often now - gotta get that energy back.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Dallasites depart today - it will get quiet around here quickly. Next week is the last one before I return to the office - time has passed so fast - hard to believe that I'll be back in the old routine so soon. Next week, I'll be dedicated to getting into semi-shape before I'm back to work.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great weekend - and stay cool - xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-50403501371869105022009-06-05T09:58:00.002-05:002009-06-05T10:45:04.929-05:00ANOTHER Long Day at MDAOh, yesterday - good grief - who knew that they actually do MRIs at 6:30 a.m. at MDA? It was a very early morning, but I managed to sort of doze through all of that bamming and banging. Then my sister Kim and I enjoyed a smoothie before making the scene at the Place ... of wellness to collect an enormous number of brochures. Then we waited in the Clark Clinic lobby for my mother and other sister Shannon to arrive from Dallas before going upstairs for my 11:15 doctor's appointment.<div><br /></div><div>It was a long morning, but the wait was worth it to get the good report from the MRI - doc says that things are lookin' good up there - always nice to hear. However, he did give me my fourth or fifth lecture of the day about exercise and, of course, my need to do it. Now, I've never been one to move much - I do enjoy my chair - but I've promised to try. He assures me that if I don't, I'll regret it - use it or lose it as they say. Ugh ...... that means a walk around the block today - and forever more.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today, we're going out for lunch and then we'll get things for dinner together. Brian and Tiffany are coming over to eat with us - I think we're having flank steak and zucchini casserole - yum!</div><div>Mother and Kim leave Saturday a.m. and then it's time for me to go about getting ready to go back to work in another week - hard to believe!</div><div><br /></div><div>Right now, it's shower time for me and then we're off on the day's errands - sounds like a busy day for all of us. </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy weekend - gbg</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-28549611112758735272009-06-03T11:09:00.002-05:002009-06-03T11:40:56.986-05:00Sister ActMy sister Kim, the one who was voted off the island for going to Mexico, is coming for a visit this evening. She'll be joined by sister Shannon and my mother tomorrow because everyone wants to go to my doctor's appt. with me on Thursday a.m. :)<div><br /></div><div>The bad news is that I have to be at MDA at 6:30 a.m. on Thurs. for an MRI. I actually thought I would be back at work when this appt. was scheduled so I decided not to change it. That didn't happen, but I still didn't change it. After that is over, I will have three plus hours to kill before the next appt. at 11:15 a.m. I think that I will visit the Place ... of Wellness for some of that time to see if they have any suggestions to help me conquer this stupid fatigue. I'm pretty sure that they will tell me to walk - I'm going to give them Sara Kate's phone # so they can discuss this together.</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of SK, I got a book from her yesterday called "Cancer Fitness" - she ordered it for me from Amazon and I must say that it made a lot of sense. I spent the afternoon reading it and have concluded that she's probably right - I need to get the move on. I always hate to admit that I'm wrong - but, in this case, I believe I am. No idle promise here, I am starting an exercise program - the book says you can begin with 10 minutes and work your way up. Sounds like my idea of moving about.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll spend today tidying up before the big visit - housekeeper will be here tomorrow to do the big stuff. Have a great day and stay cool - xxxgbg</div><div><br /></div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-74991820567727820702009-06-02T12:04:00.002-05:002009-06-02T12:15:59.519-05:00Still Feeling Kinda RockyIt must be that chemo pill that's taken me down - I really haven't felt the same since Friday. I have an upset stomach, I don't want to eat much of anything and I am so, so tired. The best thing that has happened is that a friend called to tell me that sleeping is just what I'm supposed to be doing - good news to me! Now I just need to convince my daughter about this - that's sure to happen!<div><br /></div><div>So, I'm trying to perk up. I have plans to talk to the Wellness Center at MDA this week - it's not possible that I am the only person who is this tired after surgery. I'm hoping that they will have a miraculous cure for me that doesn't involve having to get off another pill. Abandoning the steroids was not fun - but it's done (good for me)! Now, there has to be something that gives energy besides walking around the block - I just can't do it.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am exposing my less than positive upbeat attitude - sorry about that. I try to be happy-faced - doesn't always work. By the end of the week, I'm certain to be back to my sunny self - doncha think?</div><div><br /></div><div>xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-3722877872801982502009-06-01T08:27:00.002-05:002009-06-01T08:45:16.233-05:00Taking My TimeIt's countdown time - I am set to go back to work in two weeks. Actually, I was originally supposed to return today,but saner minds prevailed and I have added a few more weeks to see if I can't regain some of the energy I have lost.<div><br /></div><div>The good news is that I have made it through the first round of oral chemo with no real issues. Now I have 23 days before the next five days of pills. It's nice to cross some of that off my list of challenges.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was a long slow weekend - I did a lot of vegging and hope that I have caught up on my sleep. Somehow, I just couldn't get moving, but maybe today will be a new day. I have lunch plans out of the house with a friend - good to get out in the world!</div><div><br /></div><div>My mother and two sisters are coming on Thursday to go with me to my next doctor's appt. - it's great to have an extra set of ears (or three) and I'll enjoy a visit with them, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>Best to all - Gail</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-20774414976225994672009-05-29T11:55:00.002-05:002009-05-29T12:02:48.173-05:00I MADE IT!!!!Don't be looking for me on the curb somewhere - I made it all the way around the block (even though it was a bit further than I remembered). I waited for Clif to come home so that I would have an escort - glad I did because it was nice to have someone to lean on! It was pretty warm out there, but I did it.<div><br /></div><div>I also took my third dose of the first round of the chemo pill with no incident. Two more to go and then I'm off for 23 days. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today the goal is to get the return date on my FMLA changed. Originally, it was set for 6/1, but I've decided to add two more weeks on so that I will be really ready to go back. Guess I'd better get on that - but I'll be back soon.</div><div><br /></div><div>xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-1262835526086947302009-05-28T10:09:00.003-05:002009-05-28T10:16:18.456-05:00Thought You'd Want To Know ...... I had night two of the chemo pill and all is well. I must be tolerating them just fine and that's good news. In fact, it's all pretty much good news these days.<div><br /></div><div>My goal today (I've already had my morning pep talk from "Dallas") is a walk around the block. I promise to let you know how it goes - otherwise, you might think that I'm out there sitting on a curb somewhere. So, look to hear from me later today when I'm back in from the heat.</div><div><br /></div><div>Best to all - xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-24723046096858282202009-05-27T11:16:00.002-05:002009-05-27T11:22:08.993-05:00A Spoonful of SugarSeems that this is all it takes - a spoonful of sugar will help the medicine go down!<div><br /></div><div>Last night I had my first dose of the chemo, which was preceded by a pill that had to be dissolved in my mouth. Other than a kind of nasty fake grape flavor, it was not so bad. Thirty minutes after that one, I took the chemo pill (actually, there were three of them) and then went to bed.</div><div><br /></div><div>I woke up feeling just fine so I am 1 night down with 4 to go in this round. Keep your fingers crossed that it continues to be this easy. Personally, I'm counting on it!</div><div><br /></div><div>That's it for now - xxx The Brainiac</div><div><br /></div><div>P.S. I regret ever mentioning healthy eating and walking in my last post - who am I kidding!!!</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-52896746073576354542009-05-22T20:59:00.002-05:002009-05-22T21:33:45.539-05:00Start Spreadin' the News!I finally heard the news today - and the news is GOOD!<div><br /></div><div>It took my pathology report forever to come back, but we were pleased with what we heard today. First of all, as I told you earlier, the surgeon was able to get about 85% of the tumor. He stopped when he got to a point where he felt that if he went further, he might hit up on something that might change my personality - and we certainly don't want that!</div><div><br /></div><div>The tumor has been identified as a grade 3 anaplastic oligodendroglima - something that is about in the middle of good and bad. In addition, the reports show that I have something else that I can't remember - I only remember the letters "p" and "q" - and this is a good thing because past studies have shown that those with these indicators respond better to treatment.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next good thing is that the best way - at least initially - is to treat this with an oral chemo pill (Temodar) They say that there are few side effects and that this should be pretty easy for me to handle. I will take a pill five days in a row and then be off for 23 days, then five more pills, off again, etc. for a year - or maybe two. Every three or six months or so, in between the chemo doses, they will do an MRI to check things out. Hope is that we will begin to see some shrinkage of the remaining 15% of the tumor within about six months. Since this is a very slow grower, that seems to be the standard.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have been "ordered" to begin exercising - use it or lose it, they say - and walking is the way to start. The doctor says that 45 minutes of real walking is the way to go - a little sweat never hurt anyone. </div><div><br /></div><div>In addition, I am supposed to begin to watch what I eat - plainer, fresher food is on the menu. Of course, this doctor has never experienced all the great food that I've been enjoying from all of you great cooks or he might reconsider! Anyway, I'm going to work on it. </div><div><br /></div><div>The chemo starts on Tuesday - seems weird to finally be moving on with things. After talking to the doctor, I've also decided to extend my leave for two weeks to give me some time to build my energy up. All of this sounds like positive moves forward and forward is where I want to go. </div><div><br /></div><div>When I've absorbed more of what I heard today, I'll let you know. In the meantime, we can all be happy - today was full of good news!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Memorial Day - xxx - the Brainiac</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615246158871876629.post-30820578621085383332009-05-21T17:15:00.002-05:002009-05-21T18:23:19.642-05:00Second Time's a Charm!Two outings in a row - I'm working on stamina and enjoying a few taste treats, too.<div><br /></div><div>It's time, I believe, to see how I do in the outside world. Yesterday I ventured out to Tiny Boxwoods (yum) and then wandered through the attached nursery for a few moments. It was a gorgeous day and a fun one to be out and about on with my good friend Sunny. Today, I was off to Lupe's for my favorite enchiladas (yum again!) with Laura who is out on vacation. We had a great time and I'm still full.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, I'm waiting for a special dinner delivery from Robin (oh, boy - just arrived: shrimp, feta, kalamata olives and who knows what else - plus cherry crisp with vanilla ice cream) and then empanadas from Wendy a little later this evening. We are well taken care of in the food department!</div><div><br /></div><div>Clif has two jobs - he keeps the medicine organized and also the food - I know exactly what is on what shelf in the frig. Nice to have someone responsible for those things.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tomorrow is another big day. Sara Kate is coming in and going with us to a doctor's appointment. She has a two page list of questions to ask the doctor - should be an interesting afternoon. There's another appointment on 6/4 and Brian will be with us for that one. I'll let you know what we find out - at least it will be a different subject from food.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you're all well and happy - I send you my best - xxxgbg</div>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06798348719954294071noreply@blogger.com2