The day after the day after the day after I think'

Today I had my chemo (5Th one) session today. So far I am feeling good, just a little tired. When they took me off of there pumps and put me on my take home pump I got up to leave my legs were very stiff like I just got done doing some jogging.(yes, I know how that feels) My feet and my hands had some muscle spasm type pain in them for a while but, it is gone now. I was told that was a very normal chemo side effect. Sally and I came home and I cooked steaks on the grill that my mom gave us about a month ago. They turned out very tender and juicy. They were from Omaha Steaks. I used to order from them when I was living the bachelor life. The thick cut pork chops are very good too.

Tomorrow, Me, my friend Dan, and Tom guys I work with at Avery and Tom's son Cody are going to the Cubs game tomorrow. The tickets were given to us from the finest management team at Strack and Van til's . I really appreciated there generosity. Strack and VanTil's is the official grocery store of Bill's Life with Cancer Blog by the way. So I hope you will patronize them they do alot for our community also.

I have a confession to make to my co- workers on the Metalizer at Avery. A few years ago when we were doing our week long Preventative Maintenance I was working in the Pump area of the machine, About 6 of my other co- workers including John and Ed who were the maintenance guys the others if I remember correctly was Alan, John, Joe and I think Dan M. ,They were working on the oven. Just to let you know Sally fed me pasta the night before for dinner. Pasta is a Carb and Carbs sometimes will do things to my body I really don't feel right talking about . I was cleaning the area I was in and they were doing there thing on the oven. I had a slight flatulence problem that day. Something ugly escaped from my body. I figured it was At least thirty feet from my nearest co-worker and I had nothing to worry about,wrong. About 2 minutes after the escape I heard Alot of commotion coming from the oven area. I went to see what was going on and didn't see anybody there. After further investigating I saw everyone standing at the other end of the room holding there noses and looking a little pale.I was thinking it couldn't have been that bad, so I went back to work. I made sure they didn't notice me busting a gut. I heard some of them yelling at Joe. Asking him what he ate or what crawled inside of him and died. We finally went back to work after the cloud has cleared. Like I said, I had a serious problem that day. So again something bad happened and again after a few minutes everyone took off again to seek clean air at no avail. I really felt kinda bad for Joe cause everyone really believed he was the Mad Gasser. He tried to tell everyone but,no one would listen. Because I was in my own area, I'm not sure if anyone knew I was in the room at the time. This was going on for a while. We really didn't accomplish much that day. I was laughing so Hard I had to leave for a while. I am sorry Joe got blamed and led everyone to believe Joe did it but, Joe did have issues every once in a while. So to justify me not saying anything ,I couldn't say with any uncertainty that Joe didn't do it. So I left it alone until now.

Until tomorrow God Bless you all and have a great start to your weekend. 80's coming next week.

The day after the day after the day after.

Today I slept until about 9:30 and woke up and had breakfast with Kaitlyn. After that, I took her to get her bangs cut. Every time she looks at somebody she is looking at the ceiling.So Sally and I figured it was time to get them cut. We want the rest of her hair to grow cause she is going to be a flower girl for her cousin Jacqueline's wedding along with her cousin Holly in May. That should be fun, there both cute little girls. After we had dinner today we went to Baskin Robbins for there 31 cents a scoop special. It was no limit to how many scoops, so I asked for three scoops of my favorite flavor, Rocky Road. After I received my cold bundles of joy I noticed something very disturbing. After further review of my icy goodness,I noticed that one scoop was missing. I can eat cold things now come on , as I said to myself with disgust. After I wiped the tears from my cheeks, I had the misfortune to inform the cashier that I only received 2 scoops not 3.

I had my first argument with Kaitlyn. When Sally and I were out doing some running around today I asked Kaitlyn what her name was. I would tell her to say your name is Kaitlyn. She would yell back, no Kaity. No your name is Kaitlyn. She yelled back even louder no Kaity. After this was going on for about an half an hour I said fine your name is Kaity. This is also the first time I lost an argument with my 2 year old daughter. I am sure there will be many more!

Let me tell you a story about the time my lovely wife tried and failed to kill her husband(me). It was a cold Christmas evening a few years ago. We were all gathered at my Mother in Law's home with all of Sally's sisters (accomplices I Believe). We were all having fun talking merriment and drinking a few drinks of the finest Port Wine. I had a glass and drank it all up and decided that I would want another. I asked my wife if she would fetch me another glass of that fine Port wine that everyone seems to enjoy. As I was drinking that dark colored wine I noticed something strange. The wine didn't taste quite right. It had somewhat of a metallic taste to it. I was thinking no its just that my taste buds were dancing around trying to get to every drop of the fine wine. When It was almost gone I looked in my glass and noticed 2 of the sharpest looking screws that any hardware store could have. I asked my little demon wife whats this. She said," oh that looks like 2 screws."( no sh-- I said to myself) Then she let out this cackle of a laugh. She would not stop no matter how mad I got she laughed harder. Then the sisters joined in. Either she wanted to harm me or she was sending me a message of some sort. To this day I will not let her pour me a drink unless it is a clear liquid.

I am going to end this blog a little short, it is late and I need to get to bed,so that I am bright eyed and bushy tailed for my Chemo tomorrow. Take care all of you and God Bless.

The day after the day after.

Today, Sally , myself and Kaity went to Cosco cause we needed to get her diapers , wipes and a few other things. Actually I like to go there for lunch. There is usually about a dozen people doing demos. You can easily get a full 10 course meal there if your lucky. Some of the things they have is very good and I have to go back and get more. The only thing is I have to change my appearance so they won't be on to me. Sometimes I will only have to change my voice. I have a few different ones that I use to trick my family and friends. That's because some of the demo people won't look at you. This makes it easier to get to the the gold. Some of the times I will act like I am going to give one of the samples to Kaity as to trick the Lady, but in reality I will take both samples and hide behind a display as to not attract attention to myself and make the lady mad that she was fooled . If I am really hungry and I usually am we will go to Sam's Club. They have a good spread too.

Today Sally and I were picking up Zachary from school. We will go there and wait in the car and he will go to the gate that separates the parking lot from the play ground. He will stay there until we call him and watch him cross over to us. This time I saw him standing there just looking around. I told Sally there is Zachary. I started to wave and call his name. He would look in our direction but, have a puzzled look on his face. It's a good thing that we got him new glasses. ( Yes, they were on). So we just sat in the car for about 20 minutes laughing at him. Then I felt bad and went and got him. This brings me to another related story that Sally and I used to do when we started dating. One date she couldn't stay out that late. So we decided to go to a place called Rodney's and have a few drinks. I parked the car and then we saw a older couple walk in. ( Look like they may have been in there 60's) ( not that, that mattered its just that this is were the younger crowd goes. its like a sports bar) I was in my early thirties ,but anyway we were sitting in the car thinking what there story was. Then more and more people were going in and coming out, and we would just sit there and joke about them. We thought maybe it was bingo night or something like that. This went on for about two hours or so. We never did get out of the car. That was one of the funnest and cheapest dates that I have ever had. Then I took her home and we sat in the driveway talking about her sisters. Just kidding Sandy, Susie and Stacie, maybe.Yes , my wife's name is Sally. They all have S's for there first names. I think that Sally's name is the most uncommon of her sisters. Every time I say my wife's name I have this urge to watch Charlie Brown. Any way that was a boring story but ,that was a fun time and I wanted to share. Thanks again for all the prayers and support, God Bless.

The day after my rant

Today I took my daughter with me just to go to a few places to get ideas for Mommy for mothers day. I Still have my birthday money that I received to help get the item that Sally deserves. It was a fun day with Kaity. I had to go to Menards first to pick up something and as we turned into the parking lot she started to scream with happiness. I guess she thought we were at the mall. She is really starting to be a Daddys little girl. Yesterday, I was standing by my kitchen and she just came up to me and hugged my leg. It just made me smelt like ice on a hot summer day.

I cleaned out the drawer on the hutch we have in the kitchen today. It probably hasn't been cleaned or sorted through since Sally and I have been married. So because I made such a mess with the stuff in the drawers and put it all on the table and didn't want to stop until I was done, Sally and I decided to get something cheap to eat for dinner. We went to a place called J's Pea pods. I now know what my name is in Chinese. At least I hope it was my name. When I went in to pick it up I said order for Bill. The lady went in the back and said order for somhungboy or something like that. The food there is very good.We been there before and like it alot. There are two of them and both are located in Lansing.

I want to apologize for crying like a girly man in yesterdays blog. Although I try to keep a positive attitude about everything some things will set me off like rudeness. Just to name one.

I remember another rude story that happened to me when I was in Elementary school at Johnston in Highland. We were having A Fun Fair at the school one day. I was there doing all the things that were available for me to do.I especially liked the cake walks.( surprise there ) It seemed like myself and my brothers and sister( before Carolyn and Lisa were born) would win alot. By the way I think this is the first time that I am telling this story. Even Sally doesn't know about it. Like I said I was walking around doing all the things that were available for me to do. There I was walking around and all of a sudden this guy just starts literally yelling at me. There I am pacing around this one spot trying to ignore this guy who is yelling at me. I'm thinking what the heck is this guys problem. This guy wouldn't let up. Then other people joined in. I was thinking did I beat up these peoples kids or something and there out to get me. As I was getting ready to make my quick getaway.( I was called speedy Bill remember) This little kid came up to me and said "Hey, dude your standing in throw up" Needless to say that was my cue for my speedy getaway. I did not stop until I got home.

I hope you enjoy that embarrassing moment of many that I have had. Like I said in an earlier blog I had a very unique childhood that I would not change for anything. For the good times and the bad it all shaped my childhood and made me the person(goof) that I am today.

Take care and God Bless you all and thanks for all the prayers and kind words of support.

sunday

Last night before I went to bed I said the Rosary. When I finished I got ready for bed and suddenly I had needle pains in both feet. Similar to when you lost some circulation in your feet, and also kinda like the sensation I have with the Chemo side effect with cold things. I don't think it was the circulation issue cause my feet weren't asleep and it happened a little later as I was getting ready for bed. As for the feeling I get when I have the chemo it wasn't as severe as that but lasting allot longer then that. It just lasted for awhile and I couldn't fall asleep until it went away. It seems like it lasted for about 20 minutes or so. I have no idea what caused that. Other then that problem I feel great.

The kids are getting on my nerves a little bit today. I really don't know totally why. I think I am just in one of those moods today. It started partial when Zachary wasn't very good in church today and after church he had his faith formation and he again wasn't very good. I take going to Church very seriously and believe this is the time your suppose to dedicate to God. So when my two oldest aren't being tentative the way Sally and I have taught them to be, it will set the tone for the rest of the day. I don't think its allot to ask, its only one hour on Sunday. Another thing that really upset me a little (a lot) was at Zachary's Faith Formation I was drinking a cup of coffee. As I was enjoying my brew a boy moved his chair out so far that it hit my arm thus spilling my coffee all over the floor and my arm. He looked at me not saying a word. I looked at the kid and said "YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING ME" Thus still not getting a response from him.This child of God was in his teens so I figured he should know better. Maybe he felt like I deserved it. Then later I was walking to the snack table to get Kaity something to munch on. As I was approaching the table a Girl this time runs into me.( not walks but runs) Almost throwing me into the table of joy. Again looking at me not saying a word. ( maybe I had my mean look on my face) I just stood there staring at her waiting for something to come out of her mouth, but nothing.Is it just me or do most kids today seem to be rude. I hope that it is just me. After that I just went and stood in the corner with my nose to the wall thinking it must have been my fault.

It's just funny since being diagnosed, I am really trying to be closer to God. I have always been going to Church and Praying and trying to be a compassionate person before the diagnosis. Now that I have been dealt this card I am a different person. I really don't get as bent out of shape like I use to. Now that I pray more I feel more at ease. ( until today-Hey, I'm human) I am really enjoying my time with my family.(until today) I want to do more with the Sisters of Charities. I would like to do other charitable things too. I really look forward to each and everyday. Before I got sick it was like what do I have to get done today. I don't get stressed like I used too. The things that I need to get done I know I will get done eventually. I really don't like to rant like this but, it was a very strange day. This will be it for today. God Bless you all and thanks for listening.

I took Michael to a mock trial today. The criminology class that he is in does a mock trial every year. It consist of all the Hammond schools.( Gavit,Hammond, Clark,Morton and the Hammond Career Center morning and afternoon classes). The classes compete with one another until there is a winner. Last year Michael's class came in second. The Gavit debate team beat them. They did very well. Today, they were the defense. Michael played the lawyer. He did really well. They lost the court case but they won the trial part and will be competing next Saturday. The court case is based on an actual trial but the students do not know the out come. It's nice because the students actually participate and they learn how the court works. It is done in a court room with Judge Harkin. I really enjoy watching them. I might be watching the future laywers of tomorrow. Hopefully Michael will be one of them.

Zachary's soccer team tied again. I couldn't watch him play because it was at the same time of the trail. Sally said the coach commented on how well Zachary played today.

This morning I woke up to no hot water. The pilot light on the water heater went out. I tried several times to relight to no avail. I am glad I took a shower last night. Michael and Sally both had to take cold showers. Teaches them to go to bed smelly. My brother in law, Tom, came over today and put in a new thermal coupling. Thanks Tom! I really appreciate it. I got to wash dishes tonight. Not only will you be my car mechanic, you are my new handyman.

I have been experimenting with my Breville juicer. Sally gets on my case about not eating enough fruits and veggies so I took out the juicer. I am becoming brave and trying all sorts of things. Last night I had beet and radish juice. It actually wasn't that bad and I drank it all. Zachary looks forward to it when I take the juicer out. He's my little Igor. Next time I am going to throw in a juicy steak with potato's. See how that turns out. So next time when I have to go on a liquid diet I will have other alternatives. I hope everyone knows I have a dry sense of humor when I write my blogs. Take Care and God Bless you all!

Another fun day with kids

Today was a beautiful day. Glad I am feel well and able to enjoy it. Zachary's school had a walk-a-thon for a fund raiser. Kaity and I went to walk with his class. Sally is one of the room moms and does all the activities. It's nice that I am able to participate now that I am not working. As soon as I got there (I guess because I was the only dad) I was given a boy who had to stay with me at all times because he had gotten in trouble early in the day. Him, Zachary, and another boy were dragging behind but they did well. It was a long walk. We walked over an hour. We walked on the path and in the residential area as well. While we were walking I heard the roar of a bunch of kids laughing. I looked and in a yard there was a statue who's top half was exposed. I remember those days when I was a young lad. You could say the word butt and I would break out with laughter.

This evening I went to my niece's Chloe's 7th birthday party with Zachary. We went to my sister's house first for pizza and cake. Then we went to see a play. Zachary and my nephew Evan were the only boys there. It was funny watching Evan trying to show off for the girls. They did a craft and Zachary's hands got all green. We washed them and we can't get them clean. Hope it wears off soon.Maybe next Halloween he can go as the Hulk if they don't come out. After the cake and Ice cream we went to a play for the kids called The Life and Times of Junie B. Jones. It was a very good kids play that everyone enjoyed. After the show the characters came out to greet the kids which I thought was really nice. When they came out all you heard was kids screaming with delight. Like they just saw Miley Cyrus. I wanted to get my picture taken with the character that was Junie. As I was sliding my way in for the photo one of the kids tripped me and I went rolling down the aisle. When I looked up it was my own son standing there laughing at me then he started to hum the theme to Lassie. Actually that didn't happen but I wouldn't doubt my son doing that if he had the opportunity.

I think life is to short not to have fun and laugh. I don't mind laughing at myself either. I asked Sally to think of a memory for me to write. So here it is but it's at my expense. I have always been fascinated with ghost. When I was around 10 my mom had a hand bell and it rang. No one was around and it was the strangest thing.It was shortly after my Dad died. I have read lots of books on haunted places in our area and at one time Sally and I joined a paranormal group (this was way before "Ghost Hunters"). One sunny Sunday afternoon Sally and I took Michael to Lincoln Park Zoo. (This was before the little ones and the same time I was involved in the group. The zoo is known to be haunted.) We were walking back to the car when I noticed a bike. There was no one on the bike and it was moving. I pointed it out to Sally and Michael. I told them "look at the ghost bike!". About the same time Sally and Michael looked, I followed the bike with my eyes as it went up the hill and then I heard Sally and Michael burst out in to laughter. The bike was attacked to a roof of a car. When I first spotted the bike I couldn't see the car because of the dip but as it drove up the car was visible. Sally and Michael will never let me live it down. We were at Lincoln Park Zoo last summer with a couple of guys I work with. They kept bringing it up. Not sure what was worst the ghost bike being mentioned or the 2 turtles having some fun.

Today I woke up and wanted to just do something. I decided to go with Kaitlyn to Target and look for a video that she could dance to cause she loves to dance. No matter what she is doing if she hears music on TV especially one from a cool commercial she will stop what she is doing and go dance crazy. So that is what I did today for her and I found one I know she will like. It was the Wiggles" You make me feel like Dancing"She likes the faster paced songs, just like her Daddy. Then after that I took her to see her Grandma yo and Grandpa. It was a nice visit, she did a lot of coloring and playing with all the millions of toys has at her disposal. One thing though she did clean up a little bit before we left. She is a very helpful little girl.

When I got home I gave Father Rookey a call. Father Rookey is the Servite for the International Compassion Ministry. People from all over call him to have him pray with them over the phone.He used to do this prayer service to the public but, now is up there in age and as far as I know he only does this over the phone . He isn't able to get around as much now. He is believed by many to have help cure illnesses and whatever they may need help with. This is all well documented and well know throughout the world. It is something that I believed could and will help me with my cancer. It definitely couldn't hurt. If you are interested Tel, 708-748-6279 or www.frrookeyicm.org

This is something that I noticed about Zachary. He likes to hum aaaaaaallllll the time. No matter what he is doing he has a different hum for it. He'll be eating,doing his homework, playing with legoes or is cars it doesn't matter he has a hum for it. It's like OK Professor Andy how bout some toe nail picking hum music please and he will have a unique hum for it. I thought I would share that with you so when my kids get older my kids will say wow dad liked to embarrass us. Its not that it just when you have more time on your hands you just notice more of the cute things they do. Zachary has a very unique mind. Some of the things that boy comes up with blows me away some times.

Today with some of the running around I did I must have lost the car a couple of times not remembering were I left it. That happened to me almost 20 years ago at Sears at River Oaks. My sister Carolyn and I went there shopping for things. When we were leaving we were in the parking lot going to the car but, the car was gone. I was walking around that lot for what seemed like hours looking for this sharp looking jet black Grand Am. I just got a new alarm put in and I was thinking what good that did cause by this time I thought the car was gone. I had my hand in the air pushing the button on the alarm to make the alarm noise so I would know were it is. I was waiting for Alan Funt to come out and say your on Candid Camera but, he never did.I just started to walk all over the Sears parking lot with panic but , trying to stay cool for my sister. After walking around like I said what seemed like an hour I did find it finally at the farthest part of the other side of the parking lot. By this time it had about three layers of dust and rust all over it but, it still ran. See not only am I embarrassing my kids but, I have no problem doing it to myself.Tomorrows blog may be done later cause I have a few things going on tomorrow. I hope you like the little stories I tell. There just memories that I think about every now and then and like to share.

Thanks for visiting the blog and God Bless you all.

I love my house

Last night Kaity woke up about 5AM crying. Sally took her and was trying to calm her down. Nothing seemed to work. She took her out of our room to try and rock her but, nothing seemed to work. So she came back in our room and seemed to calm down a little ,but started crying again. Than I realized that I had my S shirt on. I said to Kaity if she wanted to come to Daddy and she raised her hands in the air and shifted to me, it was like ooooooooooohhhhhh Yeaaaaaaa. I took her in the living room and just sat on the couch cuddling her. She immediately started to calm down and that made me feel ooooh sooo good. Lately she has been my little peanut. I hope when I return to work that it doesn't change. I remember doing this with Zachary also. He was always my Pumpkin. I didn't really realize until Zachary was about two that, that was what my biological Dad use to call me. My parents were divorced when I was very little , not sure of what age but, guessing about two or three. I do have a Step Dad who is really a great guy and I know if he could he would do anything for myself and my family. He and my mom have been there a lot already. I don't have a lot of memories of my biological father cause he did die when I was young.( about 9-10) One of my memories of my dad though, was he would always say" after bed". Which is what he would say meaning later on. One time on the 4th of July I was asking him if we could light off some fire works.His response was "after bed". I was always wondering why I had to take a nap first. I thought for a while and figured I needed to be alert if the fire works would go crazy and go after me and I had to be extra speedy to be able to out run them, so I needed the rest. So finally I asked him if I could go and take my nap now to get it over with. I remember him looking at me with a look like what are you talking about. So I explained what he has been telling me, and how I have to be speedy, ( actually some of my brothers friends use to call me speedy Bill) He laughed at me and finally told me that it just had to be a little more darker outside.

Since I was up so early with Kaity didn't get back to sleep until about 5:45 Sally took Michael and Zachary to school. So she let me sleep in until 11am. I woke up and ate something and played with my peanut for a little while and started to deep clean the kitchen. I was still seeing those ants here and there. The dishes were on the table for a few days cause I didn't want to put them back until I know they were gone. Since I was still seeing a few of them and got tired of that ,I took everything out of all the cabinets even if I didn't see anything in them to clean them out. I also cleaned all the counter tops, stove, microwave ,walls and anything I could think of. So now I am taking a break and so far I don't see anything. We seem to get the ants when it rains alot and it did for about three days straight. We live in a slab house and I know those houses are prone to have ant issues especially after long rains. Alot of our neighbors tell us they have the same problems. Our next door neighbor say they have big problems with spiders. I should ask my brother in law Tom if he could come over and help combat them. (he hates spiders)So its not that we are dirty we just live in crappy houses.

I am going to eat and going to take Kaitlyn outside. She keeps saying side side. Meaning she wants to go outside. So I will have to do that for my little girl. I will have to take her on the bike seat she really enjoys that and then to the park perhaps. So I will end this blog now and hope all you have a great day and a better rest of the week. God Bless you all!

Good day- Bad day

Hi everyone ,
I feel allot more like myself today. This morning I had an appointment with the Gastric Doctor. I talked to him for about three minutes. He told me that I will be getting another Colonoscopy I was like YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!. Nothing like starting your day with great news like that.( read on my day gets better) That will take place on May 6th so mark your calendars of this special day. I also made the appointment with the thyroid specialist. That isn't until May 28. I left there and went and got my new glasses. My eye sight is getting worse but, not sure if its chemo or old age. Chemo is a side effect of your sight getting bad. So when this is over I will have to get them rechecked to see.

I had to go Avery to fax some paper work to Aetna. Before I was there I heard rumors that there were going to be more lay offs starting that day. Sure enough when I got there they were walking people out. I been through a lay off before when the dairy plant I worked at closed. (that was a blessing) They went deep in the employment,I heard about 80 people but I don't know for sure.Some were let go immediately some have until Sep 15 which is when our automotive contract is up. I heard that we aren't going to be in the automotive business anymore. With all the trouble they have been having it seems to make sense now but , later ? The department that I am in is in the metalure dept. which is the only dept that is making some money for the plant. Although two people from the machine I work on did get let go, one reason that I am safe now is obviously now I am on disability first and foremost. The second is that I am a lead operator. It is languaged in our regulations that leads are to be laid off last on a machine. So that saved me to when I go back. There are only lead operators left( 6 total) except for two other floater operators on my machine. So lets see what the future holds. I hope we do get busier. I do believe that what is happening is best for the company if your not making money.I know its not a popular move but, one that needed to be done to hopefully save the company in the long run.

Later that afternoon Sally and I volunteered our time to the Sisters of the Missionary of Charities. They were having a Easter party for some under privileged kids. Sally and I went there to help set up. They have a soup kitchen everyday except Thursday, that is there day of prayer and Sunday. They do feed the homeless everyday. Sally helped getting the munchies ready for the kids and I was in charge of the decorating and helping with hiding the Easter eggs. I get nervous around them because I do or say stupid things when I get nervous. I like to be somewhat of a wise guy and with them I don't think they will understand my humor. They are so funny sometimes though. I need to go there more so I get more use to them. That is all I going to write now. I need to spend some quality time with my wife. I love her so much!
God Bless you all !!

Today I am still not feeling like myself. I feel really drained. I don't have much of an appetite. I get queasy thinking about certain foods. Sally made me a chocolate zucchini cake I am looking forward to it. She made two loafs of beer bread but dropped one loaf when she tried to put it in the oven. When she makes a mess she makes it good. Then she started to make dinner when she noticed some ants in the kitchen cabinet. Now we have to bleach everything down and wash all the dishes. So we will be going out for dinner as soon as the bread if finished baking.

This morning I had a nice time with Kaity. Sally had another one of her headaches and laid down. Kaity sat on my lap. It's probably was the best part of my day. She just sat there and gave me hugs and kisses. Then we started making funny faces at each other. I just love her laugh. She has been really attached to Sally but now she seems closer to me. Which would have not have happened if I didn't get sick and had to take time off. So I guess there is good in everything.

Tomorrow I have an appointment with the gastric doctor. I was told he might advice me to have another colonosposy since they couldn't get the scope up very far because of the tumor. I should also be getting appointments made this week with the thyroid specialist and the liver specialist. Not sure how long it will take to see them.

It saddens me when I see Sally and she looks like she is trying to hold in her tears. Obviously I'm not the same person she married almost 11 years ago. She isn't use to me being so melancholy most of the time. I was always the type of person that wanted to make people laugh and feel comfortable around. I think a good sense of humor is very important in life. I know Sally has a good sense of humor cause, she married me and if that's not funny than nothing is. We both come from two unique families that makes things very interesting sometimes. I wouldn't change a thing about either side I love them all. It's hard to explain sometimes how exactly how I am feeling. I try to act different for Sally( now the cats out of the bag)because I know it bothers her when she sees me this way. The doctor told me that some days I will just have to force myself to go and do things. It's just hard just after I get the pump taken out, those are the worst days. Although I am still having a hard time eating because so much makes me ill , just thinking about it. Today Sally made chocolate Zucchini cake that I had a taste for really bad. If she would have been able to make that yesterday I probably would have eaten my fingers trying to devour it. Now I want it but, I will probably pick at it more. My eating habits change quickly so I have to act fast or I may starve. I'm not drinking a lot which is critical. It's hard when I want something cold to drink cause I am thirsty and I can't because it makes my throat feel weird and I can't taste anything. So everything pretty much almost a week after I get the pump taken out has to be a minimal room temperature. So if I want A glass of milk I have to let it sit out for a while to be able to enjoy it. I am A big milk drinker.

I am going to go now I hope to have a better report tomorrow. I am waiting for the 80 degree weather we are suppose to get on Thursday and Friday. I hope that helps me to be more like me. I have had only had 4 chemo sessions so I hope it will get better as I go along. Some people I have talked to say that it does. It does effect people differently so lets just hope. God Bless you all and good night.


p.s. I have an idea for my next survey. Should Sally clean off her computer desk?

another rainy day

Today I woke up early to go to the 7:30 mass at St James. I didn't sleep to well last night. I was restless and couldn't get comfortable. When I got home I went back to sleep and didn't get up until about 2:30. After that long nap I still felt very tired. I just don't want to sleep all day. It's just very hard for me today to get the motivation to do anything. I hope I only feel this way because of the weather.

This is Sally taking over. Bill isn't feeling to well. The chemo weekends are the hardest on him. He tries so hard to act like he is fine, even when he isn't. Just a few minutes ago he fell in the hallway. I think he must have gotten dizzy. He tried to tell me he tripped. I was getting ready for church when it happened. Zachary got me. I don't trust him alone so I am skipping church today. He's OK, he bumped the back of his head. He is sitting on the couch now watching Wallee again with Zachary. Yesterday, he was doing so well. Hopefully, tomorrow he will feel better.

He told me a joke not to long ago. I thought it was cute and I wanted to share. Why are there no seagulls at the bay?
Because they would be bay gulls.

The picture I posted is of Zachary and Kaitlyn playing in the yard yesterday. Did you know if you click on the pictures you can see them better?

Another fine day

Today was another good day. although I was still feeling tired most of the day and did take a nap I had no other issues. I hope it continues , because I am really enjoying my time with my family when I am feeling good.

Today Zachary had his second soccer game. His team did really well, They tied a team that was undefeated last year. Even though we aren't suppose to keep score. but we all do .

When we came home Sally and I were in the yard watching Zachary and Kaity playing in the yard with a bubble machine. Kaity got out her bubble lawn mower that she got from her Aunt Stacie and Uncle Tom for her birthday. She really enjoys it a lot. Later all the neighborhood kids came over and were playing in our yard with our kids. The kids didn't bother me cause I made sure I had my mean look on my face. (actually it was my I am really tired and I'm going in the house to take a nap look) So that is what I did, I took a nap and woke up and got ready to go and get my pump taken out. I feel a lot better when that is taken out. I am very self conscience of it. Sally says it doesn't bother her at all, but it makes me feel inferior. I will always try and cover it up, but anybody wants to see it I won't hesitate to show them. I want everyone to know what may be in store for them if they don't have regular check ups or get looked at if they are having an issue.

Today the mighty CUBS won today. Aramiz Ramirez hit a two run walk off home run in the 11th inning against those nasty Cardinals. Lets hope the CUBS can continue to win in their division. It looks like they might be a tougher division this year. I notice the Pirates are whipping a few teams this year.

Last night Sally and I saw another good movie called Not Easily Broken. I also recommend this movie. It was good from beginning to end. So if you ever want to see a good movie that sends a good message watch this one.

I want to thank everyone for the positive feedback that I have been getting. It really makes me feel good that I am helping everyone that wants to understand what I and other cancer patients are going through. Just because we have been diagnosed with cancer doesn't mean life is over. To some of us it may be a beginning. It's just how we choose to deal with it that makes the difference. God Bless everyone and thank you for all the prayers.

Today I am beat. I woke up and took Zachary to school and went back to bed shortly after. I slept until 2. I am still tired. Even though I am tired, I can't sit still and do nothing. My brother gave me a child's bicycle seat and I installed it on my bike. Thanks Mike , it will get a lot of use this summer. It was such a nice day, I didn't want to stay in the house. I tested Kaity on the seat and she loved it. So Zachary and I with Kaity rode our bikes to the park. Zachary had fun playing with the other kids. Kaity had fun going on the slide. As was watching Kaity going down the slide constantly there was one little boy there that would not leave me alone. I would talk to him cause I don't won't to be rude to him , but like I said I was keeping an eye on Kaity and she would was always be on the move. The little kid was like a booger that was on your finger that you just couldn't get rid of, no matter how much you tried to flick it off. ( not that I have had that problem before just what other people have mentioned to me) Finally one time he came up to me and said Hey Man, I am big and I could cuss. I said you better not cuss around me and my kids. and than I walked away from him and he didn't come by me anymore. than other little Kids showed up and they were all coming to me and jumping off of stuff and saying look at me, look me. That was when I decided we needed to go far away, so we went home.
The Cubs won today 8-7. That always makes me feel better. Sox are playing later so I have no score. I believe there going to lose.
I wanted to suggest a couple of movies I had recently watched. The first one is "Fire Proof". Every married couple should watch it in my opinion. Kirk Cameron was a lead actor in it. Not a very good actor in my opinion. I would even suggest buying a copy to watch on occasion. The second movie I strongly suggest is "Faith Like Potatoes". It's based on a true story. A very up lifting movie. Both movies are not the typical movies I normally watch but I thought they were very good and taught good lessons. I give both movies two thumbs up.

I will ask Sally to post a picture of Zachary and his new glasses tomorrow. People have been asking about him and the glasses.

4th time

Today I had my 4th Chemo session. It went well, I had no ill effects during the session. I went and relieved Michael and his girlfriend from watching Zachary during his soccer practice. During this time I said the Rosary, a Divine Mercy Novena and Chaplet, a prayer to Mother Theresa and A Prayer to our Lady of Lourdes to occupy my time as not to think to much. After practice I took Zachary to the park. I was sitting on a bench and it was getting chilly so I decided to zip up my hood. As I was doing this the zipper grazed my cheek ( on my face) and I had the feeling of needles piercing my cheek. Later both of my hands were cramping up. I started to play with Zachary and a friend of his and I was climbing the stairs to the slide and my hands were electrified. This seems to be the quickest reaction times I've had since starting the chemo sessions. I will not be able to really enjoy anything cold until about next Friday. That is when most of the effects start to wear off. Considering I like ice cream that really sucks. ( rocky road is my favorite) When I start to eat something after not eating something for a while my jaws will hurt really bad but, it goes away quickly.

Today my dinner menu was Beef Fajitas made with Flank Steak. The Flank Steak was cut up into thinly sliced strips as to be able to see through each slice. The Steak was joined with Green and Red Peppers that were cut into evenly sliced strips and Onions that were cut Julienned style. They all were put in a crock pot to slow cook. Just the right amount of Cumin, Coriander and Chili Powder were added to the mingling morsels of meat strips and vegetables. All were cooked perfectly til the meat was tender to the touch. ( I used a fork not my fingers, you think I'm goofy)but, if I did touch then with my fingers they would of been tender to the touch. We also had the best tasting Refried beans made Taco Bell style. ( refried beans mixed together just perfectly with cheese and Taco sauce) With all this we also had Spanish rice . I like to mix the rice with the Refried beans simply delish.

I will cut this off for now. I am really kind of tired and going to try and go to sleep a little earlier today. God Bless you all and remember 7 days without prayer makes one weak.

Not much to say today so I will begin by telling about one of my favorite childhood memories. Which is going to the Little Calumet river and pounds in the area catching turtles with my big brother Mike. I was about 7ish when he started taking me. We would be gone for hours. We had a wadding pool we would put turtles, fish, crawdads, and tadpoles. I would go outside for hours and watch them in the pool. One time when I was littler I gave them cement because, I thought they were hungry. I thought the cement was food.( I mentioned the story in a earlier blog) The turtles were my favorite. When I was a little older I would go out with my friend Paul. We would be gone sometimes at least half of the day. It was a lot of fun. We would be in the river up to our belly buttons. When he got home we would have to spray ourselves off because we would be covered with mud and duckweed. It was worth it. In the winter I would keep the turtles in a 40 gallon fish tank in the house. I miss those days. This summer I would like to take Zachary looking for turtles. To this day when I pass the river or see a creek or pound I will stop to look for turtles.
Today, I spent most of my day in Zachary's room. It's cleaned for the most part. I still have things that I still needed to do from when he painted his room. Plus I need to find someone to fix an outlet that shorted out when the ceiling fan was installed. Zachary was happy to see his room. He wanted to have a bunch of his friends over today. We have been telling him for the past couple of months no friends until his room gets cleaned. Now the living room is a mess because Sally is washing and sorting through Zachary's and Kaity's clothes.
I went today for my blood work. I go for chemo tomorrow. I hope and pray it's not as bad as last time. I was miserable. Zachary and Sally picked up their new glasses today. Zachary looks really cute in them. I guess mine are taking longer because I ordered bi-focals. My distance is fine, I told them I needed glasses for reading. So instead of me taking my glasses on and off I ordered bi-bifocals. Sally has been working on her mom's taxes and has been occupying the computer today.
Cubs and Sox both loss today. Makes me feel better that the Cubs didn't get their a$$ kicked as bad as the Sox did. CUBS Lost 5-2 sox lost 9-0
Goodnight and God Bless everyone.

Today, I spent most of my day in Zachary's room. I am 63.596% done. Talk about a job. There are game pieces, legos, pencils, crayons, etc... all over which I am sorting through. The drawers on his dressers I needed to fix again. I discovered Kaity's toy box mysteriously came a part. That was a pain to put together. Zachary keeps telling me he wants a yard sale so he can sell some of his toys. When it warms up I hope we can. We have all the baby items we need to get rid of as well. We thought we would hang on the baby things just in case maybe we wanted to try for one more. With the cancer we have no other choice except to be done. I feel blessed and lucky with what we have.

No games for tonight. The Cubs were off and the Sox were rained out. They will both play tomorrow. Tonight Sally and I may rent a movie. We played the Wii last night so we might just spend the evening playing games. Hopefully tomorrow I will finish Zach's room since Thursday I have chemo. so wish me luck so that I git ur done. So this Is another short blog cause I am tired and sneezy. I will try and add another tidbit tomorrow. God Bless you all.

Today, Sally planned on taking the kids to mall while I cleaned Zach's room. I stood in the room for 15 minutes not knowing where to begin. So I decided to go with them to the mall. The kids received Build a Bear gift cards for their birthdays. Zachary picked out a dog and Kaity was more interested in running around then anything else. So she ended up with nothing. Kaity insisted on bringing her purse (which she got from the Easter bunny) in the mall. She lost it at the mall somewhere. So tomorrow her and Sally will have to go back and see if it was returned at the lost and found. Maybe she will be more interested in Build a Bear tomorrow.

Tomorrow I have to tackle Zach's room. No one can walk in there. It is so bad that we can't even find their clothes. Usually we don't let his room get that bad. We were in the middle of sorting through and things right before I ended up in the surgery. So it was a little messy but we were still able to walk around in it. By the time I came home from the hospital it looked like it was destroyed by a tornado. Now it is even worst and looks like it was hit by a hurricane , typhoon and tidal wave( Zachary drools) as well. If I don't blog tomorrow it's because I wasn't able to find my way out of his room.

I was told yesterday by my brother Mike, I should blog about our Wii. December was a bad month for us. Everyone was getting sick, and one of the tires on the car blew out while I was on the way to work (we only have one car which is running). January didn't get better. Sally lost her debit card( but she knew it was in the house), the Wii broke, lay offs at work, the car needed new brakes, and I ended up with colon cancer. Zachary was more upset about the Wii then anything else. We bought the protection plan for the Wii but we couldn't find the receipt. We called Toys R Us where we purchased it from and they gave us the number to the warranty company. Sally called the company and they didn't have a record because we didn't register it. However, they said they would fix it one time for free. With everything going on with me, it took us a few weeks to send it in. One day Sally gets a phone call from the repair center. The technician informed her, he had found her debit card in the Wii. Who would have thought to check the Wii for the debit card. I guess we should have asked Kaitlyn if she knew where the card was.

In case you thought I was over exaggerating about Zach's room. I took a picture.

Today the CUBS took care of business. Ted Lilly pitched A one hitter. That hit came with two outs in the 7th inning. That's how it ended with only that one hit but, lou took him out that inning after he walked a batter. So Lilly combined with Guzman,Hellman and Gregg there was only the one hit for Colorado, the final being 4-0. Oh, and I heard something about the Sox may have won also. So for the Year the CUBS have 12 HRS ,batting avg of .256 scored 34 runs and have so far 54 hits. The Sox have 6 HRS, are batting.232 scored 24 runs and have 44 hits. Just for those who want to know.

Easter

Sally is still trying to work on this blog to make it more efficient. She added a guest book tonight. It ables guest to leave messages instead of leaving comments after the blogs. The comments can be made public or private. Feel free to check it out and leave a message. I would love to hear feedback about your likes and dislikes with my blog. Anything that can help to improve this will be appreciated .

We went last night to the Easter Vigil. We have never been to one and heard nice things about it. So we decided to go. It was at 8 O'clock at night. Plus we thought it would be nice to enjoy Easter morning without trying to rush the kids for mass. Kaity was all dressed up in her fancy sandals, hat, and what ever else Sally had on her. She looked like a southern bell. I Was waiting for Sally to pull out a parasol for her to carry. Well, Kaity had problems walking in her new sandals and kept falling. She fell twice during mass both times she hit her head and started crying loudly. We sat near the front and there were very few children so everyone kept looking at us. It was very nice. During the first half it was dark. During part of the darkness we had candles lit. The darkness, helped me from being distracted from looking around. The service was over 2 hours long. We left near the end because Kaity and Zach had enough. We didn't get a chance to take pictures of the kids dressed up but will be doing that soon to post on the blog.

This morning Zachary was the first one up. He left us alone while he found his basket and looked through it. Kaity was interested in Zachary's basket at first until she realized she had her own. She sat down on the floor and started to devour the candy. The morning was nice and relaxing. The first holiday in awhile we didn't have to rush around. My brother Mike and his family and my sister Dawn and her husband Dave came over and visited. It was nice seeing them. Dave I hope you don't mind the earlier post but the people must know. After everyone left, we took the kids to Olive Garden for dinner. The manager of Olive Garden in Merriville, Rob, has been generous. He donated a $50 gift card and bread sticks for the benefit. In addition to that he had invited my family to have dinner there. We were allowed to order anything we wanted on a condition that we didn't tip. They would tip the waitress for us. We were told that the more we ordered the larger the tip the waitress would get. The kids and I were on line looking at the menu. Planing our plan of attack. It was a huge treat for the kids since they are rarely allowed to order pop and we never order appetizers or desserts. Everyone left beyond full. I had to pull over to unbutton my pants on the way home. We have always liked Olive Garden but really like them even more. From what I have heard Rob, has done this to many unfortunate people. I don't think this will be an Easter the kids will forget. Here is something that happened when we left. While we were pulling out the of parking lot there was a man on the corner asking for help. Sally and I have tried to teach our kids to help out others with out judgement. When we see a situation we try to use it as a lesson. I did good this time. This is a lesson of all lessons. So we are sitting at the traffic light which has 2 turning lanes. There was no one behind me and no one in the other lane. I am trying to pull my wallet out of my overstuffed jeans ( It took a few mins or so). I finally got the wallet out and I was just about to roll down the window and get the guy's attention, when I heard a car honking at me when the light turned green. I looked behind me and there was a car behind me that didn't even stop yet. It irked me so I rolled down the window and called the man over to get the money. I had time to leave on the yellow light but the car behind me got stuck by the light. Teaches him to be impatient. Ok maybe my good deed was over turned by my vindictiveness but my intent was honorable. It was worth a good laugh and another memory made that my kids won't forget.

I discovered someone's secret!

Looks like we have a secret Cub's fan in the house. He claims he doesn't like the Cubs but of all the places he could have sat, he decided to sit on the couch with the Cubs blanket.

Happy Easter

Hope you have a Blessed Easter!

SPANKED!!!

See all the eggs Zachary got. He got three eggs the same Kaity got. Usually he will be mad if he doesn't do good but, this time he didn't care. Zach and Kaity really enjoyed it. I think Griffith has the best Easter egg hunt in the area. Some towns you have to live there,Griffith you don't.

Today the blog was posted early cause we have a lot to do to prepare for the coming of the Easter Bunny. We will be coloring eggs later and Sally has some running around to do. We are planning on going to the 8pm mass service at St James which is the church we belong to. Today is another day that I feel really good and motivated. I really hope this continues cause next week I am planning on going in Zach's room to clean it up. You literally can't see the floor. He has so many toys he plays with and doesn't put away. In a few months or so we our planning on having a yard sale to get rid of some of the toys amongst other things. He is actually excited to do this because, than he knows he will get money to buy more toys. ( mainly Star Wars stuff)

I think some of you need to change your survey answers to your Sox questions to no way no how. Again losing to teams in there own division. These are games they must win to win the central division. At least they got a couple of Home runs.( Konerko-Quentin)( three for the team for the year in 4 games) I will say one thing the Cubs aren't exactly tearing up the league either. They are hitting the homers( 7 for the team in 4 games) but, need to work on getting the little hits also. What made Lou put this Kevin Gregg as a closer. He has a 13.50 era. For a closer this is definitely baaaaaaaaad. I hope he gets better as the Year progresses or the Cubs will have a long year as well as the 1-3 team on the South side. There is a opening in Griffith's T-Ball league for another team. I think the Sox may be more competitive there.

If I could be any spider I would want to be a Brown Recluse Spider. They are loners rebels so to speak just like me. They keep to themselves but, will bite if threatened. I thought of being a Black Widow Spider instead , but it is only the female Spider that is poisonous. The males are wusses and get eaten up by there female counterparts . The Brown Recluse Spider bite isn't as bad as a Black Widow bite but, it still can cause itchiness,chills,fever, nausea and vomiting. Kinda like the way I feel when I think about the White Sox.

I hope everyone is enjoying the blog as much as I am writing it. I hope you like the If I could be any (?) segments cause I like to do different things to keep it a little more interesting. I hope you all have a Great Easter and remember why we all celebrate it. Jesus is the reason for the Season so God Bless and love you all!!!!

Good Friday

Today I woke up really good and felt motivated around the house. I cleaned out the fridge and took apart the vacuum and cleaned that out as well. I have been tweeting today also. We just figured out how to add twitter to the blog. So look for it. I am also going to try to keep 2 surveys up at a time.

Dinner was early today. It consisted of Greek Avgolemono soup made vegetarian style. For those who may not know it's Greek style lemon rice soup. Made with vegetable stock, chopped celery and onions, orzo made by Italy's #1 brand of pasta, freshly squeezed lemon juice and eggs. Which blended together makes the creamiest soup to end all soups. Served with a hearty portion of mixed greens with home made poppy seed dressing.

This evening Zachary and I went to a Tenebrae service. I wanted to do something special today to reflect on Good Friday. I thought about going to the stations of the cross. However, Sally mentioned to me about a Tenebrae service at St. Thomas Moore in Munster. I never heard of one . I looked it up and found out it's suppose to be like a funeral service for Jesus. When I got to church there were lots of candles on the alter. I counted 68. When the service started there were a series of psalms and passages being read throughout the service. During this service periodically a bell would ring, and an alter boy would put out a flame on one of the candles. During the service the church continued to get darker until there was no more light. During the service I couldn't help but reflect what Jesus and the people in that time experienced. Even when we said the Lord's Prayer we had to whisper. At the end of the service we heard the sound of a boulder rolling over the tomb and all of a sudden there was a huge "BOOM". That was it. The priest and his helpers left the alter and everyone else got up and walked out. Zachary and me just followed. On the way out Zachary asked if he was good enough to get ice cream. It was really nice. I did get a lot out of it. I would like to go again next year.

My friend Al came over with home made tamales and chili rellenos. I can't wait to try Al said that his wife still owes me rice,so I don't know if I'm suppose to wait until I get the rice or not to eat it, but I have to wait until tomorrow since today is a day of fast. Have to go and help get the kids ready for bed. I rented "Yes Man" for Sally and I to watch tonight. God Bless you all!

Kaity's 2nd Birthday!

Today I woke up feeling like a whole new man again. What difference prayers and a night makes. I had to go to work in the morning to fax some papers to the insurance company. While they were waiting for me Kaity got a birthday card in the mail. She was happy to have her very own mail to open. After, Sally and I took Kaitlyn to the mall. When he pulled up to the mall Kaity got all excited almost jumped out of her car seat ( good thing she was still buckled in). She loves to go shopping already. We took her on the merry go round. She kept pointing to it but when she went on she started to cry. Sally sat down with her and she cried half way through it. We picked upped Zachary and Michael up from school and went out for dinner. We had a gift certificate for a newer restaurant called Dante's. It's rare for us to walk out of a restaurant with a doggie bag. This time we walked out with 5 boxes. The portions were huge. Kaity's child size mac a cheese was enough to feed me plus it came with fries.
Kaity opened her presents when we got home. She loved her new baby doll. Was kissing her while she was still in the box. The baby cries, laughs and coos. Kaity mimics her baby. I think Zach likes her toys as much as she does.
Like I said earlier it was 2 years ago since my little girl was born. We didn't know for sure if she was going to be a boy or a girl. We suspected she was going to be a she. Kaity was born the day after Easter. Easter evening Sally and I were trying to get everything ready for the hospital. We still did not decide on a name. I told Sally I wanted a name before the baby was born so I could let everyone know when I called. If the baby was a boy the name would have been William if he looked like me (Zachary should have been little Bill since he looks like me) and if he didn't look like me his name would have been Jacob. We narrowed the girl's name between Kaitlyn and Loren. Sally had wanted Kaitlyn with every pregnancy and I liked the name as well but we both liked Loren too. A few hours before she was born we both agreed on Kaitlyn Grace. We both agreed we like Kaitlyn better and Grace because of the grace of God we were able to have her. When she was born the first thing I did was look to see what she was. I felt like the Cubs just one the world series. Then I looked up to check out the rest of my baby girl. The next thing I noticed was her headful of hair. If I didn't see her being born, I would have denied she was ours. She had tons of black hair with reddish high lights. It looked like she went and had highlights put in before she was born. I always wanted a daddy's little girl. Dreams do come true.
The White Sox lost again and I feel oh so bad. I had to ask Sally for some tissue, not because I was sad but because there was a bug I needed to kill. Since Thomes dramatic Home run in there first Game with the Royals the sorriest team in the American league last year. The Sox Scored 1 run had / 7 hits/ 13 strike outs/ only 60 at bats. Looks like it may be a long year for Ozzies boys. One can only hope. Go Rams

Today, I am not much better. I do not feel like eating, plus I am tired and miserable. Tomorrow is my little girl's 2nd birthday. I hope I am feeling better. Zachary had an eye exam after school. I pushed myself to go. I wanted to make sure my pumpkin got the coolest glasses in case he had to get them. His eyes changed a lot since his appointment in June. He will have to wear glasses all the time. Zachary was not thrilled at all. Zachary and I wanted him to get a pair of spiderman glasses but they were small on him. His glasses aren't cool but they do look good on him. There is not much of a dinner menu. I had left over soup for dinner tonight. Sorry this is short. I am drained. Plus I have to assemble a toy for Kaity's birthday. I hope I have more to say tomorrow. Good night everyone. God Bless.

Michael and me many years ago. I was one handsome man with my mustache.

I am still not feeling 100%. Not sure if it's because I skipped that week for chemo or because I had the stomach flu a couple of weeks ago. Whatever it is, it stinks. I went to the eye doctor this morning. I was having trouble reading. I am looking forward to getting my glasses so I can read the stack of magazines and books I have waiting. Hopefully now I can work on the model air
plane Zachary is so patiently waiting to help me.
I went to work to take care of some things. It was great seeing the people from work. On the other hand it's hard on me to. I wish I could be back at work. It's just another reminder that I am a sick man.
Cubs won yesterday! What a good way for them to begin the season. I hope this is a reflection for the rest of the season.
Tonight's dinner was pasta e fagioli soup. This delicious soup was made with freshly chopped mild onion, celery, grated sweet carrots, minced garlic, freshly chopped basil and parsley which were all grown in the country I love. Imported from Italy small pasta shells. Simmered in tomato juice and chicken broth. Cooked until the pasta was el dante. Served with perfectly baked home made bread. The crust was crisp yet the inside was soft and airy.

I'm back

Hi , It's me I'm back and feeling a little better. I don't feel as nauseated as I did in the last few days. I just feel very tired like I just got done jogging. My legs feel a little stiff and sometimes I will get toe cramps . All I ate so far today was carnation instant breakfast. For dinner today I will try and eat some soup. This is the worst I felt since starting the chemo so I hope this was only because I had to miss a week because I got sick. I know when the weather gets better I will be better too. I love to be outside and being inside makes me go stir crazy. I was at Avery today for a little while cause I had some business to take care of. I wasn't there very long but hope maybe later this week to visit longer with the people I work with. I didn't go in the production area only the office area. I believe the Machine I work on is doing Preventative Maintenance this week so I will try and visit.
Let me tell you about how Sally and I met. First of all my Mom and her Mom were friends since our younger sisters were in the first grade. Our moms would take them out and do things together when they were younger. I was in Sally's older sister's class in junior high. Sally babysat my sisters a few times. When Michael was little my sister Lisa watched Michael a few times. So our families go way back. The funny thing is Sally and I never met. We both heard stories about one another, knew each other's moms and some of the siblings yet we never met.
My mom was on the quest to make sure we were all married before she died. She didn't want me to be alone. I was quite content with my single life. I enjoyed my freedom. My mom was persistent though. She wanted me to go out on date with Mary's daughter Sally. She kept nagging me to call Sally. I finally caved in to keep her quiet. I called Sally right after New Years in 1994. We talked for a long time and I told her I would call her back. I never told her when I would call back. I didn't call her back until the spring of the following year. Of course it was after I continually heard from my mom to call Sally back. So I finally called Sally and we talked for a long time again. But in the conversation I will swear Sally said "I wish you would just leave me alone". Sally to this day swears she never said this but I heard what I heard and my hearing never serves me wrong. So I didn't call her back. However, my mom still insisted I go out for coffee and cake with Sally (I felt like I was taking a grandma out). So I finally called her again in November. We talked for a long time and I asked her if she would like to go out with me and she said OK. Sally wasn't interested in a relationship either. Michael was little and she devoted most of her free time to him. Plus she enjoyed going out with her friends. She was going to school full time and working part time at Omni Finer Foods (Dominicks). I did have the upper hand though. Sally had no clue what I looked like but I went to her work and scoped her out. My mom said Sally looked angelic. That description almost made me not to want to go out on a date. The first time I laid eyes on her I thought she was so hot she could melt ice. I think Sally felt the same way about going out on a date with me also.( not the hot melting ice part) Something you don't want to do but did it to make others happy.
On November 25th, 1995 we finally went on our first date. I wanted to keep the date local so I could take her home quickly if I didn't like her. She lived in Highland and I lived in the same house I live now in Griffith. So we lived about a mile apart. The date was for the movies. I was working midnights at the dairy and I was hungry and asked if she didn't mind if we went to Jedi's first. She claimed to have already eaten and ordered just a bowl of lemon rice soup and I ordered a BLT sandwich. I must say I was really nervous for not wanting to go out with her. After dinner I believe the movie we saw was Tommy Boy . We had a good time but.one thing that almost ended the date was when she came out of the women's restroom she had a piece of toilet tissue stuck to her shoe. I remember this little kid just laughing. Wondering what he was laughing at until he started pointing at Sally's feet with this three foot piece of toilet tissue stuck to her shoe. I tried to stay at least five feet ahead of her as not to bring attention to myself. She kept catching up with me. I finally told her to walk ahead of me.Not telling her why. I tried to step on the tissue to release it from her shoe. It was hard cause she was walking and I was having a hard time stepping on it. It looked like I was trying to do the splits. Finally I had to tell her so I could remove the pesky tissue. After that we went to the Back Door Lounge and downed few test tube shots and shot some darts. I almost fell out of the my chair a couple of times not because I was drunk but because the chairs were flimsy ( I got drunk later). That was the start of my life with Sally. We will be married 11 years this coming June and together over 13 years.

Here is a picture of Bill and his baby sister, Lisa taken at the benefit. Lisa did a lot to help out with the benefit. Her friend designed the photo. She did a great job.

Yesterday, the Easter Bunny was at Stracks. Kaity was scared of the bunny.

Bill still isn't feeling good today. He stayed in bed for most of the day. He had problems with smells which made it difficult for him to eat. He did drink Carnation Instant Breakfast and was able to eat dinner tonight. He wasn't able to attend mass this morning. He wanted to try but I told him he needed to stay home. My mom brought over Holy Communion to him and prayed with him. I was going to write about how Bill and I met. But decided to tell what we think about on days like to day.

Days like today makes me more grateful for the good days we have. I am thankful there are more good days then bad. However, there may be a time where it will be the complete opposite. Days like today reminds us that he is very sick. It's easy to forget on a good day. Not that we can actually forget but on good days we can "pretend" he is fine. I don't think there is a moment of time that I forget he is very sick. I wish we could just forget, even if it was just for a day. It would be great to have a day without tears. Everyone tells us Bill will be fine. However, the chances of him surviving are a lot less them of him dying. I know it's not a subject anyone wants to talk about it. However, I would rather be prepared then not and he needs to be as well. Not that I know how do you really be prepared because I don't think anyone can be 100% prepared for something like this. Especially with our children being so small and Bill has a lot of life he still wants to live. It feels like we are living with a black cloud over our heads. Not knowing if the chemo is working or the cancer is spreading. I do believe in miracles. I know they happen all the time. I also believe in God's will. His will may not be the same as what we want. Maybe he has better things in store for Bill. Sometimes I feel like I am being selfish for praying for Bill to live. We all know eternal life is much more better then the life we have on earth. He will no longer have to suffer.

Sorry this blog is dreary. Bill not feeling well and the weather being gloomy brings out the worst in me. Hopefully Bill will feel better tomorrow and be able to write an entertaining blog for everyone's reading pleasure.

It's me Sally. Bill is having it bad with the side effects. It's worst then the last 2 times. We were told the side effect would get better so this was not expected. He didn't sleep well last night. Woke up with an upset stomach. He spent most of the day in bed. Right before we left to have the chemo pump remove he drank a cup of Carnation Instant Breakfast. He did feel better after the pump was removed and wanted pizza. We picked up a cheese pizza and a video on the way home. He ate pizza and watched "Bed Time Stories" with Zachary. Bill didn't eat much pizza and ended up getting sick after wards. He still isn't feeling very well. For those you have called Bill today, we told him. He didn't feel like talking to anyone but feels good to know people care about him. The kids are driving him nuts so I am going to make it short and get them ready for bed.

visitors

Today I felt a little tired, so I took a nap and felt a lot better when I woke up.I'm not having to many of the symptoms except for the tiredness. I did have a slight metal taste in my mouth after the chemo yesterday but, nothing today.

Today I had visitors from Avery Dennison . Bill Goldsmith who is the president of my plant and Joe Hurley who is a lead operator on coater 8. I really appreciate the time they took to come over and see how I am doing. It was a very nice visit and can't say enough how much It means to me to see and hear from the people from Avery. I hope too hear from more of you., and I hope everyone is checking the blog if you feel uncomfortable calling. Everyone at Avery Is like a big family looking out for there own. I was told by a few employees that about 10 years ago that when Mr. Goldsmith came to Avery it was in bad shape and on the verge of closure. In fact he was there to close the plant from what I understand. He seen some potential in the plant and made a complete turn around and saved the plant. In a few short years that plant became division of the year , and once again a few years ago I believe in my second year at Avery. He is a well respected man there and deservedly so. Avery is world wide and has over two hundred plants.Thank you again Bill for coming to see me it meant a lot, oh and you to Joe.

I want to tell everyone how I got my job at Avery. I worked at a dairy products plant in Chicago that closed on Oct.31 ( Halloween) of 2003 I was there two and half months shy of 11 years. I won't go into detail why they closed. I didn't care that the plant closed cause it was a long ride in and coming home, It was also located in the West side of Chicago which is one of the rougher areas .Well anyway when I got laid off I didn't mind like I said. I was going on the computer and sending out resumes and going through the news paper everyday with no calls. Christmas came and all I did was make 10 to 12 different of cookies plus fudge. I was in my glory and must of gained about 20 pounds during the month of December. I kept on looking for jobs I saw a add for Avery and took in my application ( sent one in actually twice)than in February on my birthday my mother in law Mary gave me a St Joseph statue and a novena to say.( St. Joseph is the patron saint of fathers and workers) I was saying his novena everyday. She told me towards the end of Feb. that I will get a job in March , because his feast day was in March. So on Monday the 1St of March I was called for an interview. I was interviewed by a man named Jeff McKenzie. He was a man of large stature. He told me a lot of things about Avery most of which I knew because I researched it before my interview. Some of the things he was telling me I thought that perhaps he was trying to scare me. I laugh at fear unless that fear comes from God. Then on Thursday March 4th I got a call from Karen in HR at the time, that they needed my expertise. She asked if I was interested in bailing there warehouse out because it was in shambles. I said of course I would be delighted. They sent me my info with a drug test info that I got that Friday and took on Saturday. I started on that Monday the 8th. That was the beginning of my new journey with Avery. At first few weeks I would go home with stomach aches because of all things that I had to learn. I actually told my wife Sally that I don't know if I will be able to do it. I finally got accustom to it and flourished and became the savior they sought. I needed a change so I later bid on a floater operator job ( I will be trained on three different machines to cover vac. and call offs.) I got the job and I stayed there for a while. A another year or so goes by and I was asked if I would be interested in being a lead operator On the Metallizer machine. I thought about it for a while and took the job. So in less than 5 years I moved up pretty good and I love what I am doing and hope to continue for a long long time. Just like most major companies Avery is going through a tough time but, I feel confident that we will be fine cause we have Bill Goldsmith. WINK WINK

Thanks to everyone who checks on the blog and were the heck are the Cub Fans at? Don't worry I still love you all anyway. God Bless you all.