Chemo, Chemo, Chemo….
This time has not been nearly as bad as the last two. I feel very tired and fatigued, (not sleepy tired… just heavy tired) but am not nauseous at all. I decided to not take my constipation medication, and go the natural route (Prunes, Prune Juice, anything related to Prunes… did I mention Prunes?) and my body feels OH SO MUCH BETTER. I think that was adding to the problem. It wasn’t the whole problem but it certainly didn’t help matters. I am also sleeping through the night, which was a major problem the last two times. I go to bed at around 8:30 and am up by 6, very well rested. I know from experience that I will feel the effects of chemo later this week, but it is really promising that I don’t feel nearly as bad this time around at the beginning.
Some of you have asked about my Mothering Through Cancer support group. I changed to start date, it is starting next Tuesday, the 20th of Nov. I didn’t think that I had enough time to properly advertise it,
And…… The Hannah Montana concert is Monday Night, November 19th (my anniversary) in Tampa and LIKE HOLY COW MY DAUGHTER IS LIKE SO EXCITED BECAUSE YA KNOW IT IS LIKE HANNAH MONTANA AND SHE IS LIKE SO AWESOME (insert hair flip).
When I went to the newcomers meeting at the Wellness Community, I met two young moms who were extremely interested… so next Tuesday it is! (did I mention the concert? did I mention how VERY EXCITED EASTON IS!) That also gives us time to put it in Mommy Magazine (a local magazine) for December. They’ve mentioned doing an article on me (The Wellness Community thru Mommy Mag) but that hasn’t been confirmed as of yet…
The conference… It was really really good! I laughed and cried, almost all the time. When Nicole C. Mullen got up to sing “Touch” I bawled like a baby. I didn’t feel like the speakers had enough time to completely get in the Word, but that is okay. Patsy Clairmont is H.I.L.L.A.R.I.O.U.S., I highly recommend that you buy every single one of her books. It was a very very refreshing weekend!
Speaking of books. I’m going to seriously sit down and look at things. I feel like now is the right time to begin seeking opinions and editors… I am joining ACFW and am going to start actively researching what needs to be done. I am not sure what story will come first, Mine or Emma’s, or if they will be intertwined together. What do you think?
Moving on to my new Theme. Some of you have written in the comments and contacted me personally saying that you love my new design but that it overlaps (post begins under the sidebars) When I emailed you back, I found a common problem(with the help of Laura). You are using IE 6 or lower. I highly encourage you to upgrade your IE or to switch to Firefox. Firefox is my browser of choice, and I highly recommend it. My theme looks fine on my IE 7 (and Firefox) & it should on yours too once you update your browser. I have links in my left sidebar for your convenience.
Buttons. Look to the right. Many of you have requested directions on how to place my button on your site. I (again, with the help of Laura) put the code in a document that you can download from my sidebar. Thank you, those of you, who have the button on your site already, it really means alot to me to go to your blogs and see my bald head
😉
Prayer Requests. Pray that I will feel this good come Friday :)Pray that the chemo does what it is suppose to do and only what it is suppose to do.
Pray for Amy Wilhoite’s husband, Brandon. Two months have passed since her death and he is struggling.
Pray for my friend Layne Daniel who is battling a brain tumor (GBM) and is traveling to Cancer Treatment Center Of America in Philadelphia.
Pray for my friend Don who has cancer and is not doing so well.
Pray for my Mothering Through Cancer support group, that Gods hands would be all over it and that he would use it mighty mighty ways.
I am so thankful for each and every one of you. I’m thankful that you support me and that you honestly truthfully are invested in my family. I am thankful that I can bring my prayer request to you and I know that they will be prayed over.
Thank you….
pam says
November 13, 2007 at 8:17 amI am thankful for YOU. Heather, you encourage me on a regular basis, and I am so grateful for the way God uses you to speak to the others who come to visit here — myself included.
I will be praying for your requests, and I am thrilled Easton is going to see Hannah Montana. How cool! My girls would have loved that, too!!
So excited to hear about your book plans. I’ll be praying for that, too.
Blessings on your day! You sound good.
Judy says
November 13, 2007 at 8:23 amThis morning I got up praying for you. It makes my heart leap knowing that you feeling better this time around with the chemo. I will add the other prayer requests to my list.
A book is a fabulous idea! I tell everyone I know about you and Emma. To point them to a book of yours to read would be great!
Dad says
November 13, 2007 at 8:31 amI Knew I Heard BOOK!
🙂
Dad
Teresa from SC says
November 13, 2007 at 8:36 amIt never ceases to amaze me the paths the Lord leads us down, even when we thought we were on the right one to begin with. Heather even though this has been a rough road, your journey has lead you to more wonderous works for the Lord. A book and a support group…wow! Thanks for letting me share in your journey. Praise his name!
teresa
Teresa from SC says
November 13, 2007 at 8:39 amHeather’s dad…seems like our comments show up together when book is mentioned. I can’t wait for my signed copy.
Laura says
November 13, 2007 at 8:58 amI felt the same at the WOF conference regarding wanting to dig deeper into the Word, but had a great time too.
SO excited you are going to write a book. I have no doubt it will help many people. You have so many gifts that God has given you and you use well. More than you know.
Praying with you and others for your requests.
Lizzi says
November 13, 2007 at 9:01 amI think a book is a fabulous idea! Prayers for you this week – and always …
Paula says
November 13, 2007 at 9:08 amPraise!!!!! I am so glad you are managing your chemo so much better!
I will keep the Mothering through Cancer Support group on my prayer list.
You go girl!
Many Blessings,
Paula 😉
Lori ~ Simple Life at Home says
November 13, 2007 at 10:06 amI am SOOOOOO happy that this chemo cycle is going better so far. I pray it will continue to do so as you go on. And I think the book is such a a great idea. I like the idea of intertwining your story and Easton’s. Kind of a “there’s nothing too big for my God” kind of theme there, huh?
You amaze me and are a constant source of encouragement and inspiration – yes, even when you don’t feel like it. I don’t mean to hold you up to some standard that’s not real. I know that what we see on the blog is just a tiny part of your life – though I think you are very honest with us. I just mean that, going through the situation you are in, you have handled it with as much grace and faith as anyone I know. And you are making your Father proud.
Crisanne says
November 13, 2007 at 10:31 amPraise God for a good start to chemo! I pray that He will give you wisdom to know how to take care of your body.
I hope you and your daughter have a wonderful time.
Liza's Eyeview says
November 13, 2007 at 10:54 amI think your story and Emma’s story entwined is good (I vote for that) – but if you decide separate, it’s good too.
Terrillyn says
November 13, 2007 at 12:06 pmI’ve been reading your blog for quite a while and have never posted before.
Anyway, my father has been through numerous chemo cycles over the past 10 years (multiple myeloma – and doing okay) He’s found that foods containing the artificial fat olestra, as well as consuming a lot of fruit, is a big help to him.
You and your family remain in our prayers.
Overwhelmed With Joy! says
November 13, 2007 at 2:19 pmHeather, you never cease to amaze me! You’re so involved in many worthy projects. As for your book, I think you should your story and Emma’s should be intertwined together, as your love and life is.
You continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Ashleigh says
November 13, 2007 at 2:20 pmSpent a bit of time praying for each of those things… and that you’ll have a simply awesome time at that concert. 😉
Gina says
November 13, 2007 at 2:34 pmPraying for you and your other requests. Amy was a friend of mine.
~Gina
k-mama says
November 13, 2007 at 2:38 pmYou are such an inspirational lady. May you be rested and healed by God’s mighty hand! As for the book, start with Emma’s story and weave yours in it. I’m big on chronological order, lol. All of Nicole Mullens songs make me cry. My daugher sings and she does all her stuff at local churches (we’re in a rural area).
k-mama says
November 13, 2007 at 2:39 pmI meant to add “Call on Jesus” remains my favorite Nicole C. Mullen
Lynne Bee says
November 13, 2007 at 3:22 pmHeather, YES! Do a book definitely, and weave your stories together…God has already done that anyway, right? I will add your prayer requests to mine. My friend Bill will be spending his birthday/Thanksgiving without my BF Lisa. Please pray for him and his sons. Thanks, and enjoy Hannah who??? I am so out of the loop 🙁 In His Grip, Lynnebee
Casey Caldwell says
November 13, 2007 at 3:36 pmYou have a gift for writing! I can’t wait to see the book. I think the battles you and Emma are engaged in would be best told in separate books. The only reason I say that is then you can fully dedicate each piece.
zoom says
November 13, 2007 at 4:09 pmSweet Father, bless Heather. Help her to feel energized and peaceful on Friday. Direct the chemo to heal her body and encourage the good cells to get stronger while the bad cells are diminished. In Jesus name Amen.
Laurie says
November 13, 2007 at 4:42 pmSo, So happy you are Sleeping like a baby and feeling better with treatment. This is so good Heather and I pray the next round is even lighter. Prunes are so much easier on the system than the other combinations. Less drugs in the system makes a “happy camper”. I get the feeling Easton is “so major stoked” with the concert coming up. How neat for her!! She must be beside herself with excitement and you are such a great mom to let her go. Does she already know what she’s wearing:) I will be praying for all the requests you have mentioned and for the Lord to keep shining His sweet healing love all over you. You are so loved and such a spirit lifter. Have a glorious day sweetie.
Laurie in Ca.
Debbie says
November 13, 2007 at 4:46 pmI am so excited that you are starting your Mothering Through Cancer and am praying for your first meeting.
Also, good to hear this round of chemo is easier on you.
Mark George says
November 13, 2007 at 6:04 pmI’m bawling cause I know you bawled
Laura says
November 13, 2007 at 6:16 pmAhhh. Hannah Montana. My girls are STILL obsessing over what they’re going to wear!
Call me. 😉
A Good Friend says
November 13, 2007 at 8:31 pmHeather, I am thankful for you and for your friendship! I am thankful that you are feeling better and that you are my friend. You restore my faith in others and you inspire me to forgive and accept while moving on and living life. I like the new blog design. I think it is great all that you are doing BUT remember to strike a balance girl or I will be calling! Take care and I hope you stay feeling well and take those naps!
Tammy says
November 13, 2007 at 11:01 pmI have just recently discovered you. You are an inspiration. You remind me of my sister in law who recently lost her battle with cancer and taught me so much about faith and looking for the small miracles. Thank you for sharing your words and I will be praying for you and your family.
jesslev says
November 14, 2007 at 12:33 amThanks for mentioning Don- I read about 1/4 of his blog- WOW- what a journey for him and his wife!
Praying for you and Don-My faith is renewed every time I read your blog!
Tee says
November 14, 2007 at 1:01 amPraying. Thank you for being specific about your needs and requests. Makes it easier to pray accurately.
MamaTee says
November 14, 2007 at 2:05 amI love the new site! It looks great! And I love the idea of your story and Emma’s intertwined. I think it would make a great read.
Jen C. says
November 14, 2007 at 9:12 amHi Heather! Definitely write a book! And I volunteer to edit it for you before you send it out to publishers (My undergrad. degree is in writing/editing, and I edited a PhD dissertation that went on to win Dissertation of the Year at the professor’s grad. school).
Jen C. (Ohio)
Deidre' says
November 14, 2007 at 10:16 amHeather, I just found your blog this morning and only had time to read about the cancer.(I have two dr’s appointments today). I was so moved by your story, I cried. My mom has gone through two breast cancer surgeries and went through chemo two years ago. She is doing well and I pray that you will continue to do well. I am praying that the chemo will do it’s job, but be kind to you in the process. I will read more as soon as I get home today. God Bless you!
LeeJo says
November 14, 2007 at 10:56 amWONDER WOMAN, I popped an award for you up at my place. Praying for you this chemo week.
Sharon says
November 14, 2007 at 5:00 pmI had the opposite reaction to my chemo…both are nasty… but temporary. I know it’s a small price to pay for getting better but still tough. Hang in there and I will continue to keep you in my prayers. Tomorrow is 7 wks. post chemo for me and feeling better each day. Praise the Lord.
Danielle Moody says
November 14, 2007 at 10:26 pmI just came across your blog and I want you to know that I will be praying for you and your daughter! My Mom was diagnosed with brain cancer in August of 2006. My sister and I made a movie this past year, and after reading your blog and about your daughter, I wanted to mail you it. The website is
http://www.dancingwithangelsthemovie.com Please let me know what you think…I’d love to send you one though!
Blessings,
Danielle
Jill says
November 14, 2007 at 11:38 pmHello Heather! I don’t recall how I found your site, but I’m sure the Lord led me to it somehow. Your strength is such an inspiration to me. I take every bit of your advice to heart and have been hugging and kissing my kiddos a lot more now since I have been following your blog. The first night I was sifting through your site at 4 in the morning. I was so upset about something very small that I couldn’t sleep. You said to ‘lay it down at the cross’. Well, I did that and after much praying, I felt an instant burden lifted off my shoulders. I am also growing stronger in my faith and realizing what really matters in life. Thank you for taking the time to blog. You have been blessed with the talent of writing and you are so inspiring to me, a complete stranger! You will definitely be in my daily prayers for healing!!
Cheryl Molenaar says
November 15, 2007 at 1:02 amWell, here’s my input, for what its worth. Write a book with both in it… I’m sure God is speaking to in both ways even now, her and the challenge of cancer… I love hearing how God helps you in both…. it would also widen the range of people interested in reading as it would be focused on different trials, tribulations and testimonies of His provision.
Love you…. keep, keeping on! I’m proud of you.
Love Cheryl
Irene says
November 15, 2007 at 2:38 pmPraying for you. Praying for healing, love and courage.
Irene says
November 15, 2007 at 2:39 pmOh and your new layout is lovely. Reminds me of Swiss edelweiss!
Leigh says
November 15, 2007 at 3:52 pmYou are just so amazing! I’ve probably already said that, but it’s just so true. Reading your blog is so inspirational and I hope that you get as much from writing it as I do from reading it.
Mark George says
November 15, 2007 at 5:52 pmWHAT!!!WHEN WERE YOU GOING TO TELL ME. 😉
campstamper03 says
November 15, 2007 at 6:59 pmHeather, so glad you are having a much better week. Also glad you enjoyed the WOF, Patsy Clairmont is one of my favorites and I laugh so hard when I’m reading her books I cry and then laugh some more. And Hannah Montana, my goodness, I can’t imagine Easton being so excited, our 13 year old granddaughter was the same way:) Life is good! God continues to bless us in so many ways.
Praying your new support group is a much needed blessing to those who need it.
Hugs ‘N Prayers,
Norma
Amy Bayliss says
November 15, 2007 at 7:19 pmPraise God!
Heather, I am so happy to hear that you are feeling better. It is obvious through your writing that you have much more peace and joy now. I love hearing (OK reading) that!
Jen @ One Moms World says
November 15, 2007 at 11:15 pmPraying for you Heather! How awesome of you to start a support group.
Have fun at the concert. I’m in the Tampa Bay are as well. I didn’t realize you were. We may have to get all tampa mom bloggers together hehe 🙂
Marie says
November 16, 2007 at 5:17 amHi Heather,
about the prunes (don’t know if you read my recipe =O( doesn’t taste good.
You get( I used soup) bran and mix that sawdust right into the soup, it absorbs a lot and then down the hatch, works well, gottttttttttttta go! =O)
praying for you
Robyn says
November 16, 2007 at 9:32 pmDear Heather,
It’s 8:26 on Friday night and I started reading your blog, as I get it in the email when you post. I began praying for you, I know the Lord is doing something for you and in you Heather…I know he is using you for a purpose. As I was telling my kids dr today. Thank God for dr’s, but God has the last word. And I now he isnt finished with you yet, he has a great plan for you.
Sometimes we cannot minister to others if we havent walked there, you are walking through this situation and you are touching lives every day. You are courageous, and compassionate and as beautiful on the outside as you are on the inside. I am praying for you!!!
Jenn says
November 17, 2007 at 12:20 amSo jealous – my daughter so wanted to go to the concert but alas, scalpers got all the tickets and now want a crazy amount for them! 🙂
I hope you all have a WONDERFUL time, God Bless
michelle says
November 18, 2007 at 1:00 amI will be praying for all needs hon! LOL! on your daughter and the concert! Too funny!