tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46498768806233687252012-01-27T15:53:44.017-07:00<li>Age 31: Diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer.</li> <li>Age 32: Chemo, surgery, remission.</li> <li>NOW: Living life as a colon cancer ass-kicking Cancer-ella!!!</li>Michellenoreply@blogger.comBlogger4161100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-44635907353759450272012-01-12T07:15:00.000-07:002012-01-12T07:15:13.082-07:00

Last night, I had the most pain I've had in a really long time.  My surgery was supposed to alleviate my back pain, which it did for a while.  The last couple of nights, though, have been almost unbearable.  I'm good during the day, and the pain is manageable.  But, when I lay down to go to sleep?  Well, last night I actually had to get back up out of bed....if I had had something safe to punch,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-84765759688925424352012-01-03T08:54:00.000-07:002012-01-03T08:54:44.902-07:00

Happy New Year, my friends!  2011 was quite a year - while I'm glad for all that I went through, I'm also glad it's behind us, and hopeful that 2012 will be even better. Our Christmas season was busy, as usual, but wonderful.  We surprised the kids with a quick trip to Disneyland (thanks to the generosity of some friends) and Hollywood, where we caught up with a friend.  It was a whirlwind trip

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-44448958991502954292011-12-13T10:26:00.000-07:002011-12-13T10:26:16.707-07:00

Today marks 5 weeks since my hysterectomy.  I'm sorry I haven't blogged - when I do feel good, I'm up and about (overdoing it, yes) and taking care of the mommy things I'm responsible for.  When I'm down and out - I am very definitively down and out.  Exhaustion, pain, and emotional instability seem to be markers of my tendency to think that mind over matter will work in this situation.  It won't

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-63302390266329131942011-11-11T10:44:00.000-07:002011-11-11T10:44:50.713-07:00

5th abdominal surgery in 10 years is done!  I am now a uterus-free woman.  :)  Forgive me if this is TMI or rambling - I'm still under the influence of prescription pain meds. Prep sucked, which is what I expected.  I've now done 4 different types of bowel prep, and I don't think any of them are fun.  The pills are definitely, in my opinion, the least suck-y prep.  The Half-Lytely is definitely

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-68918186195164739262011-11-07T16:19:00.001-07:002011-11-07T16:19:36.726-07:00

Who giddily watches clips of New Kids on the Block while prepping for surgery?  And tells everyone about it?  (Pointng to self) *THIS GIRL!* Nic, I was thinking of you....there are some amazing clips from this summer's tour on youtube.  LOVE my (ok, our) boys!  :)  They make me happy. Yes, I'm a dork.  So what?  Gotta keep myself distracted somehow.   

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-58642058334283130782011-11-04T06:05:00.000-07:002011-11-04T06:05:38.820-07:00

I've been working remote most of this week, for a few reasons.  One, I started this week and the pain has been almost unbearable.  If you don't know what I'm talking about, I'm not going to explain it to you.  Go ask your mother.  :)  The prep for the surgery has told me to try not to take meds, but I finally broke down yesterday.  I was almost in tears when I stood up.  And, last night, the pain

Michellenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-25475726907547990462011-11-01T06:32:00.000-07:002011-11-01T06:32:18.336-07:00

7 days from today, I will have surgery to remove my uterus, cervix, hopefully the scar tissue, and possibly my ovary(ies) and part of my colon.  I know this doesn't make any sense, but I feel like I'm mourning this loss.  Stupid, right? My tubes are tied.  This baby-making factory is closed.  Finito.  For shizzel.  However, this pending loss of a hope I've had for a while makes me a little sad.

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-85691776045202357112011-10-26T05:19:00.000-07:002011-10-26T05:19:05.367-07:00

Sometimes, I think planning your life around a medical procedure is more difficult than the procedure itself.  These past couple of weeks have been hell.  Just pure hell.  I'm trying to get things around for when I'm immobile and unconscious, and it's crazy.  Chaos.  Work is swamped, and that's without trying to get things prepped for me being out for two months.  I know - things will go on

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-53899948581271343102011-10-14T09:25:00.000-07:002011-10-14T09:25:21.764-07:00

My hysterectomy is scheduled for November 8th.  I have a pre-op appointment with my GYN next week, and I have a list of questions to ask him.  I'll know more after that meeting, but I'm hopeful and anxious - just get it done NOW. Today or tomorrow is the day my pain will get really bad again - I'm aware of it, popping Advil, and waiting.  I can feel it building, so I'm not happy about that.  

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-47420872617893639462011-09-30T15:47:00.000-07:002011-09-30T15:47:26.568-07:00

You know that feeling of amazement when the right song comes on the radio at the right time?  That happened to me today. History lesson:  When I was going through chemo, this song was a big hit on the radio.  It came to be my anthem and helped me through *so much*.  I bought the CD and played this song all the time.  It was on the radio when I needed it most.  It seemed to define what I was

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-2524117264740710802011-09-29T06:03:00.000-07:002011-09-29T06:03:32.659-07:00

I don't remember how much I've posted about the pain I've been experiencing, so my apologies if this is duplication.  I'm too lazy right now to go back and look.  :)  I will say that if you don't want to hear about woman-ly issues, please stop reading....now.  Otherwise, know that I'm posting this b/c a) I think it's important information to consider if you are going through a cancer surgery and

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-35796573608962856292011-09-25T17:10:00.000-07:002011-09-25T17:10:18.206-07:00

I never, ever expected to hear that my colonoscopy came back clear on Friday.  And yet, in spite of me continuing to ask my father to reassure me, he insists that the news was that my colon is clean and clear.  And, I don't have to go back in for TWO WHOLE YEARS! Absolutely amazing.  Beyond excited. I wonder what will happen when I see the oncologist on Friday - will they let me go to a year

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-8484739831563506922011-09-22T10:30:00.000-07:002011-09-22T10:30:22.916-07:00

Today's post is brought to you by my diet....chicken broth, water, popsicles, gummy bears, iced tea, soda, and my Osmo-Prep tablets later today.  :) The last couple of weeks have been very tiring.  I've been poked and prodded and radiated a lot in the last couple of weeks.  I can't remember if I told y'all what's been going on - I've been having a pretty consistent, persistent pain in my lower

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-90072182375222090032011-09-12T10:10:00.000-07:002011-09-12T10:10:39.938-07:00

I started this post last week, and didn't have the emotional strength to finish it.  I'll attempt to do that now. ****************************  I can't believe it's been 10 years.  It's so hard to imagine, when the memories in my mind are so fresh, so real, so vivid. I remember a few "big event" things in my life very vividly - one of them is the day the Challenger space shuttle blew up.  I

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-50102169163484545482011-09-02T17:14:00.001-07:002011-09-02T17:14:19.964-07:00

I've said it before, and I will say it again...this is the only time I like being "normal".  So says the report:  "PET/CT study is negative for any evidence of residual, recurrent, or metastatic colon carcinoma." That's some kick ass good news....

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-42883288104970318292011-09-01T15:08:00.000-07:002011-09-01T15:08:42.624-07:00

Have an appointment with my surgeon to talk about my colonoscopy on Tuesday.  Expect to be cleaned out and scoped within the next few weeks. Called the oncologists appointment.  Have to pick up the rx for the bloodwork tomorrow at their office.  And, Dr. Rakkar (the new onco) isn't in the office until tomorrow, so the lady I spoke with said that she's going to let him know I want to have a

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-65261722070362430912011-09-01T13:42:00.000-07:002011-09-01T13:42:28.441-07:00

Still no word back from the oncologist.  I don't like waiting.  I've been good about only leaving one message this morning (admittedly, I didn't even ask about the PET - I still need the colonoscopy information and I realized that I need my bloodwork rx).  I'm getting ready to make another phone call. Waiting.  Not my favorite thing to do at all.  I'm trying to keep myself distracted.  It's not

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-27281847552392529282011-08-31T14:09:00.000-07:002011-08-31T14:09:02.581-07:00

If I counted correctly, today was my 8th PET scan since being diagnosed.  At some point, I'm sure being injected with radioactive sugar and sitting in a PET machine for 30 minutes will come back to haunt me.  Meantime, I'm grateful for this fairly non-invasive test, since it gives us all a good idea of what's going on (or, better - what's NOT going on) inside my body. Not eating or drinking in

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-56524743020533373512011-08-29T10:19:00.000-07:002011-08-29T10:19:27.850-07:00

Never before have I been so happy to get a PET scan. With what I've been going through with the other stuff (see previous post), and with the ultrasound on Friday revealing NOTHING, I'm at a loss. I'll feel much better when I get a clear PET scan.  It's that time of the year anyways, so I'm grateful that I don't need to go in for any unscheduled testing. Wednesday morning is when I'll be in,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-33044469251703854472011-08-23T10:12:00.000-07:002011-08-23T10:12:54.213-07:00

Without getting into too much detail, I've been having some female issues, and since they've lasted for a couple of months, I went to the dr yesterday to see if we could come up with a cause and solution.  In typical me fashion, I did some research beforehand to see if I could get an idea what I was facing. Did you know that googling can be dangerous to your mental well-being? When I searched

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-3859789282185183202011-08-19T07:25:00.000-07:002011-08-19T07:25:55.631-07:00

So, this week I realized that I have an upcoming appointment with the oncologist, and yet I haven't had my PET or my colonoscopy.  I called the onco's office, and apparently my health insurance is being a little more difficult about approving the referrals for these tests.  The doctor's back-office coordinator has submitted the request 4 times, and each time the insurance company keeps coming

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-49320570226678993822011-08-16T19:00:00.000-07:002011-08-16T19:00:00.276-07:00

Somehow, the summer flew by and it's that time of year again - school started yesterday!  I'm not really sure how it happened, but I now have two school-age kids. Julia started fourth grade yesterday. Kevin started kindergarten yesterday. My babies are growing up.   Can you believe how bug they are getting?   Yesterday was one of the first times Levi has been in town to see Julia off on her

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-4317632764189162142011-08-16T17:00:00.000-07:002011-08-16T17:00:00.756-07:00

Two articles managed to piss me off this morning. This one tells of the decision by the mayor of New York City to exclude first responders from the 9/11 ceremony this year.  They have been specifically excluded.  In past year, they weren't invited, but they weren't turned away when they showed up - they were allowed to attend, mourn, remember, and heal.  This year, they can't attend.  

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-80183445662425108042011-07-22T06:58:00.001-07:002011-07-22T06:58:54.132-07:00

When I was in Austin last year for the LiveSTRONG retreat, I met Eden.  She was my roommate, and my first impression of her was, "Woah - I should have dressed up."  Eden is a lawyer, and dressed impeccably all the time.  I've never seen her (or a pipcture of her) where she wasn't dresesed to the nines, in a gorgeous dress or suit.  I walked into the room with khaki shorts and a tee shirt - it was

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-45016340451634227622011-07-08T08:02:00.000-07:002011-07-08T08:02:52.457-07:00

The CDC recently released an article indicating that, with early and consistent screening, colon cancer deaths can be prevented. *duh* While I appreciate their acknowledgement of this most obvious fact and the emphasis on getting the word out there, I feel like the CDC is a little late with this information.  Additionally, the fact that they continue to educate the public that the screening age

Michellenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-7914055915582087382011-07-01T07:50:00.001-07:002011-07-05T07:46:08.077-07:00

I don't have a voice this morning.  And, it's totally okay.  I lost it to my boys last night.  They can have it.  It's a small sacrifice, in all honesty.  They can have my voice, as long as I continue to see them perform live.  I think it's a fair deal, right? Up and at 'em, and I'm still stoked about last night.  I am so glad I didn't have to go to this concert by myself - my amazing friend

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-71507901535282049802011-06-28T07:57:00.000-07:002011-06-28T07:57:43.293-07:00

So, i'ts been over a month since I posted - I know, I'm a slacker.  Sorry - life got in the way.  :) What's happened?  Um, my son turned 5 (gasp!), we had a HUGE birthday/cancer-versary party that was a ton of fun, we've had some visitors in town, and Levi and I each turned the calendar on another year.  Overall, a pretty successful month!  Kevin's birthday and subsequent party were awesome -

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-6405360444169785052011-05-23T06:03:00.000-07:002011-05-23T06:03:43.715-07:00

Three years ago today, I heard the three words no one EVER wants to hear:  You have cancer. Three years ago today, I had to face my mortality and think about what comes after... Three years ago today, I joined a club that no one wants to become a member of, but one that I'm infinitely proud to be involved in. Three years ago today, I learned how important awareness colors, rubber bracelets,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-48434653026075730582011-05-17T18:43:00.000-07:002011-05-17T18:43:05.429-07:00

Went to the dentist today, and I knew the cavities they found last year were still there.  But, I didn't know that one of the fillings they put in last year wasn't sealed properly, hence the sensitivity I've been having.  *sigh* So, quick recap - last year, went to the dentist in January, and found out that for the first time in my life, I have cavities.  Not one or two, but several, which can

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-15183244128051678072011-05-16T09:48:00.000-07:002011-05-16T09:48:12.320-07:00

Mid-May, and there's so much to tell you, so I'll try to bullet-point it for you.  Ready? We've moved - we made the (not as hard as we thought) decision to let the inevitable happen, and let the house go.  It's a decision we made with the help of housing/mortgage professionals, and it wasn't made hastily.  After much discussion and many late-night conversations, we decided that letting the house

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-59056407913231416892011-04-13T10:26:00.000-07:002011-04-13T10:26:10.528-07:00

Happy Birthday to my gorgeous daughter, Julia.  She turns 9 today, and I couldn't be more proud of the person she's become.  It's been a blast watching her grow up, and I'm so glad to be here to see her continue to become this amazing little lady! Levi was home the last two days (he had to go to CA today), so we decided to start celebrating Jules' birthday early.  He filled her bedroom with

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-3884751427687375902011-04-13T08:55:00.000-07:002011-04-13T08:55:33.993-07:00

Earlier this year, I was contacted by Vim and Vigor, a magazine that has a readership of over 600,000 in the US and Canada - they asked me to take part in a story they plan to run about young adult cancer survivors.  Of course I was in, and I interviewed on the phone that week with a woman named Lisa, who is herself a cancer survivor.  It's always fun to do these type of things - I get to meet

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-17235957790077307072011-03-30T12:32:00.000-07:002011-03-30T12:32:04.112-07:00

I had someone ask me how things are, and mention that they hadn't read the blog in a while; they were going to head back on over here to catch up. . Hard to catch up if I don't post anything.  And, thus, this post was born. Things have been busy.  Very busy.  My brother, sister-in-law and niece came to AZ earlier this month, and I was able to spend some time with them and just enjoy the time

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-68495230970904227672011-03-11T08:18:00.000-07:002011-03-11T08:18:24.348-07:00

Sending out love and as many good thoughts as I possibly can to the people in Japan.  The pictures from this event are horrifying.  To my friends in Hawaii and on the West Coast, please stay safe and let us know you're okay.  

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-58584672829891580772011-03-08T09:11:00.000-07:002011-03-08T09:11:51.730-07:00

Occasionally, there are things that happen in life that make you step back and think about where you are in life, that makes you look at your priorities and think about what's TRULY important in your life.  Last week, one of those things happened to one of my fabulous friends, Natalie. (Randi - I shamelessly stole your pictures....)  Watching her go through this has made me re-evaluate my own

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-50661696895000389712011-02-25T07:21:00.000-07:002011-02-25T07:21:10.288-07:00

I have a new favorite blog - it's called "Born This Way," and it features posts from gay people, showing pictures of them when they were younger (and often not aware of their homosexuality in a conscious way).  The express their feelings and emotions about being gay, and how they came to deal with them, all in a short blog posting. Have you heard Lady Gaga's song of the same name?  It's an

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-1754896543304009122011-02-22T20:06:00.000-07:002011-02-22T20:06:03.400-07:00

Well, as expected, my doctor's appointment with the oncologist yesterday was short, sweet, and very good.  $60 copay, 60 seconds with her, and an appointment to come back in 6 months.  :)  I'd prefer that over a longer, angst-filled appointment. The long and the short of it is I'm doing well, and am approaching my 3-year cancer-versary in full remission.  VERY good news.... It's hard to

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-79090773249966889892011-02-17T09:46:00.000-07:002011-02-17T09:46:37.605-07:00

I have been feeling very out of sorts lately.  Some people would like to think it's due to the anxiety over my PET scan, but I don't think so.  While that's part of it, I believe I've traced it back to a core reason. I don't like working 2 jobs. I don't think anyone does.  Let's be honest - I'm happy to have a second job.  There are millions of people that would be ecstatic to have my job,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-60386262348488321072011-02-15T15:13:00.001-07:002011-02-15T15:14:43.293-07:00

Took a call from the doctor's office today - PET scan results are clear, meaning I am cancer-free for another six months!  Woot! There is still some uptake of the sugar in the area of concern from last year, which was determined to be scar tissue and possible endometriosis.  I will have a conversation with my OB about this, as the area is getting tender and sore, and I think will need to be

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-55859539829826373242011-02-11T11:35:00.000-07:002011-02-11T11:35:48.263-07:00

PET scan is over.  Can you see me glowing?  Tech said it should take about 24 hours for the radioactive sugar to get out of my system completely, so I expect I'll light up the night when I head into work tonight.  :) Now, the waiting begins in earnest.....follow up with Dr O on the 21st. *sigh* I hate waiting...

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-80102287881609314982011-02-02T14:15:00.000-07:002011-02-02T14:15:53.699-07:00

My next PET scan is scheduled for next Friday, and I'm glad for it.  At the same time, I dread it.  Anyone who's been through a cancer scare or cancer battle understands what I'm talking about.  You want the reassurance that you're healthy and still cancer-free (or, for some, maintaining your current level of cancer, rather than it increasing).  Yet, at the same time, you don't want to hear the

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-92202331190481823912011-01-19T09:39:00.000-07:002011-01-19T09:39:31.173-07:00

I wanted to talk a little bit about limitations -those ideas that come into your head, telling you in perfectly reasonable language how you absolutely cannot accomplish whatever you are facing, whether it's a weight-loss goal, a report, childbirth, or simply making it through the next ten minutes. I realized a couple of weeks ago, while training at the gym with Christine (my uber-trainer

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-4374843291940681172011-01-19T09:05:00.000-07:002011-01-19T09:05:54.465-07:00

First, I'd like to express my extreme displeasure with the date.  How have we already made it more than half-way through January?  *sigh* Anyways, Happy New Year, everyone!  I've been away for a bit, but I had a few things on my mind that thought I'd rejoin the blogosphere. Quick update on Dad - he's doing well.  He and Mom went back to NY for a week or so, and they are both back in warm AZ

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-61169513669295082512010-12-29T08:29:00.000-07:002010-12-29T08:29:19.924-07:00

9 years ago today, I walked down the aisle and married my husband.  It's hard to imagine that we've been married for 9 years - some days it seems like it's been only a few short months - other days, it feels like it's been forever. :)  I found the wedding pictures, and here are some of my favorites.  Looking at these brought back TONS of memories.   Levi and I at the alter.  Imagine - I was 5

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-9630332848498725552010-12-25T10:55:00.000-07:002010-12-25T10:55:36.674-07:00

Wishing all of my family and friends an amazing Christmas holiday! The kids have had a wonderful week!  They had Christmas with their Grandma Donna last weekend, then Christmas with Uncle Jim and Uncle Tom on Monday.  Monday also brought their Christmas party at daycare, including cookies, games, and gift exchange.  Yesterday afternoon, they opened Christmas at Nana and Papa's house, which was

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-42572638774504544952010-12-22T08:31:00.000-07:002010-12-22T08:31:34.143-07:00

Again, apologies for being late in getting this posted.  But, better late than never!  Dad is home, recovering from his surgery, which took place last Wednesday.  He is doing well, and recovering beautifully.  I don't think he's agree with that statement, but I see improvements each day.  He's moving around better, eating well, and his mood is great.  My brother Jim and his fiancee Tom came

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-78672841507295126392010-12-22T08:20:00.001-07:002010-12-22T08:32:14.595-07:00

Sorry I've been MIA the last couple of weeks - it's been crazy and chaotic, as you can well imagine.  I'll try to recap as best I can... Update on my situation: I went on December 8th for my ultrasound and mammogram.  When the breast surgeon sent the RX over, they only wanted to have the u/s and mammo done on the left side.  However, the folks at Valley Radiology were adamant that we should do

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-39947909307554709072010-12-08T15:15:00.001-07:002010-12-08T15:15:57.739-07:00

Dad's surgery date is set....next Wednesday, 12/15 in the morning.  

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-14325550341264327832010-12-08T08:11:00.000-07:002010-12-08T08:11:12.502-07:00

As my last post said, Dad's home and doing well.  He's up, moving around and enjoying life.  He seems to be in good spirits, and we are all anxiously awaiting the surgery date.  Dad and Mom went to the doctor's on Monday to discuss the new surgery plans, and they are both comfortable with the new doctor as well as the gameplan.  Basically, the doctor will make a small incision (about 4 inches)

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-1570686717882848722010-12-03T09:54:00.000-07:002010-12-03T09:54:17.177-07:00

Dad came home from the hospital yesterday, and as I understand it is enjoying being home much more than he liked the hospital.  Not surprising, given the fact that I don't think my father can sit in one place for more than a few moments at a time (sounds like someone else I know.....me, maybe?). Doctor's appointment on Monday to discuss options for surgery.  My doctor's appointment is on tuesday

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-75080936242019342682010-12-02T05:34:00.001-07:002010-12-03T09:52:25.158-07:00

Day 5: Dad is still in the hospital, though it looks like he might come home today.  He had a bone scan yesterday, and the internist isn't comfortable releasing Dad until he sees the results. Mom and Dad took a call yesterday from the urologist, who consulted with a colleague on Dad's case.  Apparently, the original urologist (Dr. Chung) still has concerns about Dad's back and how it will handle

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-61887172282923952232010-11-30T17:33:00.000-07:002010-11-30T17:33:22.945-07:00

Quick update on my dad: MRI came back confirming that that *something* on his tumor is definitely solid, and was picking up the contrast from the MRI, which means it also has blood flow to it.  Based on this, the assumption is that the tumor is likely cancer.  Regardless of the diagnosis (which can't happen until the doctors are able to biopsy the tumor), the kidney must come out.  The tumor is

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-77961214133365761752010-11-30T07:29:00.000-07:002010-11-30T07:29:20.956-07:00

First, I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  Ours was, um, long.  And, not in a good way.  Over the weekend, we have had two major things happen.  First (and, in my opinion, the most important) is that my father is in the hospital.  He fell a couple of weeks ago, and had some back pain due to it.  We thought it was getting better, but over the weekend, the pain came back worse than ever

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-90328789635538448592010-11-23T07:44:00.000-07:002010-11-23T07:44:58.044-07:00

This disease is awful, horrible, and all sorts of other words. After a week of wishful thinking, a post was uploaded to a friend's blog that confirmed my worst fears.  For those of you that don't know Melissa's story, you can read through the blog.  Basically, she's a young adult (32 years old) that was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer.  She's fought it with dignity and honesty, and it looks

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-81272312963112610732010-11-11T07:42:00.000-07:002010-11-11T07:42:27.481-07:00

I"m almost two years out from my last chemo treatment.  I'm well past my 2-year mark on my last Oxalipalantin treatment.  And yet, I think I may still have latent issues from that drug. Last night, my trainer and I worked out outdoors.  She's been waiting for this time, and now that I'm not actively training for the 5k, she's able to work hard-core on my legs (oh goody).  Lots of squats, lots of

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-23262029949632396232010-11-05T08:11:00.000-07:002010-11-05T08:11:22.216-07:00

Non-Cancer Related: This blog posting has gone viral, and I can see why.  If you haven't seen it (and don't want to click on the link), it's a mom telling how her 5 year-old son dressed up like Daphne from Scooby-Doo for Halloween, and the reactions from some of the parents (not the kids, mind you - the PARENTS) at his preschool.  I love how this mom stands up for her child, and allows him to be

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-18645269342186816442010-11-02T06:36:00.001-07:002010-11-02T06:37:11.012-07:00

Michelle Hastings #710Age: 34 Gender: F Distance5K Clock Time42:08 Chip Time41:25 Overall Place16 / 45 Gender Place203 / 31 Pace13:20

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-80595759396742879422010-11-01T11:49:00.000-07:002010-11-01T11:49:58.992-07:00

If you know anyone who's under the age of 50, please read this article. This is downright TERRIFYING, and the fact that no one can pinpoint the reasoning behind it is even scarier.  This is why I continue to do what I do, and why I'll continue to fight.  This is me.  They are talking about me, Kim, Susan, and the MILLIONS of people like me that shouldn't have to fight this disease.  Age isn't

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-10687661415701829322010-10-31T09:19:00.000-07:002010-10-31T09:19:38.719-07:00

Well, I'll get the sad news out of the way first.  Today, I learned that a fellow cancer warrior lost her battle with lung cancer.  Josephine and I met while we were in Austin for the LiveSTRONG/Planet Cancer retreat.  She and I didn't have much time to connect, but her spirit and drive was evident.  In spite of her battle against the pain, she smiled and laughed as much as anyone.  She will be

Michellenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-70589994869911177432010-10-19T06:05:00.000-07:002010-10-19T06:05:46.199-07:00

As you know, I'm training to run in the upcoming Undy 5000 on October 30th.  As the fat girl in high school, this is a feat I never imagined I'd be able to accomplish.  Never, in my wildest dreams, would I have thought that I'd be training to do ANYTHING athletic at the age of 34.  It's been a heady experience, one filled with pain, increased flexibility, agony, joy, ups, downs, and plenty of

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-76989776591126858972010-10-14T09:40:00.000-07:002010-10-14T09:40:44.756-07:00

...until the third annual Phoenix Undy 5000.  It's crazy to me how close it is, and yet how far away it seems.  I know it's getting here quickly - I'm running around like a chicken with my head cut off.  So much to do - between the run-of-show, getting vendors on board and set up, coordinating volunteers, and making sure everything is ready (I have a great team, and I'm confident all will go well

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-27552831694606894602010-10-05T09:36:00.000-07:002010-10-05T09:36:16.206-07:00

Have you read Kairol's Health Care Reform Post yet?  I don't know about you, but in spite of all of the information available regarding the health care reform, I am more confused than ever.  It's overwhelming and a tad scary to try to figure out.  However, Kairol Rosenthal (author of Everything Changes: The Insider's Guide to Cancer in your 20s and 30s) has taken the time and energy to bring

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-32985064277681460892010-09-30T11:47:00.000-07:002010-09-30T11:47:54.983-07:00

Are you familiar with Imerman Angels?  They are an amazing organization that I've had the privilege of becoming involved in, and am proud to work with. From their website.... "Imerman Angels carefully matches and individually pairs a person touched by cancer (a cancer fighter or survivor) with someone who has fought and survived the same type of cancer (a Mentor Angel). Cancer caregivers (

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-63552369662099473772010-09-29T07:42:00.000-07:002010-09-29T07:42:40.421-07:00

Got new running shoes this weekend, and WHEW!  Did they make a difference, or what?!?!  Very little shin pain, and I have been able to run in them twice now wihtout having to stop due to shin splints.  Very exciting - at least for me. Last night's workout was 2.7 miles in 43 minutes.  That included, in my defense, a 5 minute warmup.  I didn't include the cooldown.  I am hoping that I can

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-53421979376478277272010-09-22T06:12:00.000-07:002010-09-22T08:48:29.399-07:00

A couple of things I wanted to update y'all on... First, I registered for the Undy 5000 here in Phoenix, and I'd like to ask for your support.  This is the third event that I've taken part in, and this year, I'm running the event and running IN the event.  I am the chairperson for the local CCA chapter, and I'm also training to run in the event.  (I like to stay busy....).  If you are able,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-26294470642426960812010-09-21T05:56:00.002-07:002010-09-21T09:02:28.305-07:00

So, my intentions were good, but there is no way in the near future (i.e., 2010) that I'm going to able to adequately get to concise posts about the trip to Austin.  Instead, I'll try a pictorial tour and recap.  How's that? You saw in the last post, Friday was spent getting there, getting dinner, and attending an ice-breaker event, complete with finding out whether our fellow survivors

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-11236252146387453872010-09-01T09:18:00.000-07:002010-09-01T09:18:29.660-07:00

I think it's going to take me a while to get through these posts.....  ;) After we left the LiveSTRONG hq, we headed up to The Crossings resort in Austin.  It's a beautiful place with a wamr, enveloping atmosphere and welcoming people.  Very nice.  It was a little strange getting there, since I hadn't yet met my roommate.  So, I checked in, headed to the cabin to look around, get settled, and

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-81776103504428073882010-08-27T12:16:00.000-07:002010-08-27T12:16:12.889-07:00

...an angel went home.  It's hard to believe that it has been a year since Kim passed away.  I just don't know how it's been this long - it seems like yesterday.  And yet, so much has happened since then.  Time plays horrible tricks on the mind. Tonight, some folks will be at the cemetary to have a kind of memorial service over Kim's gravestone.  After that, we are heading back to Nan's house (

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-3114289365515676682010-08-26T11:59:00.000-07:002010-08-26T11:59:48.494-07:00

I was given the privilege over this past weekend to attend a young adult cancer survivors retreat in Austin, TX.  This retreat was put on by Planet Cancer (please go to their website if you haven't already) and LiveSTRONG.  I wasn't sure I'd be able to go, but with some coordination and help from amazing people (thanks, Levin, Sharon and Phil), I was able to make it work.  One of my best

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-75327830326028880672010-08-17T09:15:00.000-07:002010-08-17T09:15:52.248-07:00

So, I suck at updating this blog, apparently.  I am sorry.  I will try to make this better from here on out.  :-) I don't think I have much to update.  Well, that's not right.  The kids are home (!!!).  It was SO good to have them back home, though a bit of a change.  Their laughter and noise and mess makes the house seem like home, which is really all I want for all of us.  It's been a

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-34039950271988949682010-07-15T10:29:00.000-07:002010-07-15T10:29:26.457-07:00

Update on Levi's job - there isn't one.  Yet.  Hoping to hear something this week.  It's been a long couple of weeks, and the physical stress this is putting on us (nevermind the emotional and financial stress) is starting to take its toll.  I'm not impressed.  Kids come back next week - I can't wait.  I took Friday off to spend with them - I miss them something awful, though it's been

Michellenoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-87012362011967102022010-07-09T11:51:00.000-07:002010-07-09T11:51:58.505-07:00

Path reports came back benign for polyps in the colon.  Can't get the information on what type they are, so I'm working to get a hard copy of the report to try to determine whether I need to be concerned.  I am going to assume they were adenomatous.  When I had my scope 2 weeks ago, the doctor told me I could wait three years before coming back.  When I spoke to the medical assistant (who wasn't

Michellenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-64124674038940392732010-07-08T17:55:00.001-07:002010-07-08T17:55:37.496-07:00

Just took the message from the oncologists office.  PET scan came out clear.  I made it to two years post diagnosis. As a celebration, I'm going to work out, then have some ice cream.  Yes, it is counterproductive.  I don't care.  ;) *sigh*  Now, we push towards that elusive five year mark.  

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-71380909775893986762010-07-07T10:50:00.000-07:002010-07-07T10:50:53.596-07:00

This past week has been another doozy.  Because, you know, a stable life is a boring life.  Or, something like that.  At least that's what I keep telling myself, in the hopes of convincing myself that this semblence of stability is really unnecessary.  And unwanted.  Levi lost his job last week.  Again.  Not of his own doing - the short story is that the company abruptly closed its doors due to

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-33740500894489959112010-06-28T11:11:00.000-07:002010-06-28T11:11:30.455-07:00

So, for obvious reasons, I didn't blog on Saturday, and you'll understand in a moment why I didn't blog yesterday.  To say that this weekend was a little rough is kind of an understatement.  Per my post on Friday, the majority of that day was spent prepping for the scope on Saturday.  I will say that, in my opinion, the prep I had this time was probably the worst of the three preps I've had to

Michellenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-6425215195039122592010-06-25T07:43:00.000-07:002010-06-25T07:43:14.024-07:00

Today's the hardest day, when it comes to your colonoscopy.  Prep Day.  The premise is simple - your colon needs to be clean and clear for the doctor to adequately and clearly see what's going on in your pooper, so you have to spend 36 hours or so dealing with hunger to allow this to happen.  Very important, and well worth it (isn't your life worth 36 hours of hunger?  Mine is!). Now, I will say

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-20796957595852527002010-06-24T14:57:00.000-07:002010-06-24T14:57:01.997-07:00

My company sponsors a local blood drive about three times each year here at work.  As a cancer survivor, I assumed that I wasn't able to donate blood.  (Never mind that I never donated blood B.C. - that's another story, involving an unnatural fear of needles.)  I called the company that takes the blood here at work to find out the restrictions, and lo and behold, in spite of my cancer diagnosis,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-1752399754789078152010-06-21T09:33:00.000-07:002010-06-21T09:33:30.009-07:00

Today, I turn 34 years old.  Pretty amazing, when you look at where I was two years ago.  Pretty amazing regardless, that I'm celebrating getting older.  But, wouldn't you?  Each birthday is a celebration of another year of living, breathing, and just being.  Each year brings new challenges, new successes, new failures (which are really opportunities to make things better next time 'round), new

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-14603602767973723662010-06-17T15:30:00.001-07:002010-06-17T15:30:51.113-07:00

Testing blog posting through my phone. Have I gone high tech? We will find out.

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-36183893827336702852010-06-17T10:42:00.000-07:002010-06-17T10:42:24.982-07:00

I had a wonderful dinner with my Natty last night - Natty was one of Kim's best friends, and someone I have had the amazing blessing to get to know over the past year.  We met up to catch up, and it was (as always, when meeting with "the girls") amazing.  I am so grateful to have them all in my life, and to have shared such an intimate thing with them.  They have become so important to me (Randi,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-11389252758729665712010-06-10T08:26:00.000-07:002010-06-10T08:26:22.708-07:00

Does anyone else feel a kinship with folks you see in passing that are wearing a yellow LiveSTRONG bracelet?  I saw a person today as I was walking into work, and it dawned on me that I feel a connection to these people.  They have reason to wear these bracelets....hopefully, it's not "to be cool" but rather, to support someone who has battled or is battling this disease.  I wear my yellow and

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-69999999603294965882010-06-09T12:17:00.000-07:002010-06-09T12:17:42.260-07:00

I haven't posted in a while.  Some of it is because I don't want to celebrate my remission while others are fighting their battles (both new and continued).  It seems wrong.  There's guilt involved, and while that isn't the way to think, I'm just being honest.  Some of the time, I don't post because I have so many thing going through my head that I can't keep them straight.  There are only so

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-81262087627668083292010-05-17T09:02:00.000-07:002010-05-17T09:02:57.901-07:00

So, it's been a while since I updated this blog.  Honestly, I took a break from a lot of things.  I took about a 2 week break from working out, I have been only doing basic things with regards to advocacy, and I've just been enjoying life.  Having said that, it's time I get back into the swing of things, so here I am.  I am back working out (last night was yoga with Jillian, so I know the sore

Michellenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-39637759559272575362010-04-28T14:30:00.000-07:002010-04-28T14:30:21.986-07:00

I'm not going to lie to you - I'm pretty lazy.  Which is why I'll post this link here, instead of re-writing the entire thing.  But, I'd like to ask you to check it out, and see what you think.  It's a posting on my other blog, and tells the story of a pretty amazing realization I came to last night.  It's the kind of thing you wish for once you have kids, and I finally realized last night that I

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-46165275740499066382010-04-28T13:50:00.001-07:002010-04-28T14:00:54.763-07:00

This is an article that was featured on Fox News, detailing a new study from Britain talking about a "new" standard of preventative testing for colon cancer called a flexi-scope.  I have some VERY mixed feeling on this.  First, the pros: It's ALWAYS good to see this disease featured in the news.  As you know, I don't feel that this disease gets the same media that some other cancers do, and

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-75664556581303699692010-04-15T10:58:00.000-07:002010-04-15T10:58:28.770-07:00

This is an awesome website!  I wish I had found this sooner - what a great site!

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-5119112337519457802010-04-13T08:32:00.000-07:002010-04-13T08:32:47.274-07:00

It is so hard to believe that this gorgeous creature is my daughter, and that she's 8 years old today.  Like most moms facing the birthday of one of their children, today tends to be a day of reflection for me, looking back on my pregnancy with Julia, the birthing experience, and her life since the miraculous moment she was born.  We have had our struggles with Julia, but watching her grow up

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-35735525340149173082010-04-12T15:03:00.000-07:002010-04-12T15:03:48.643-07:00

Every once in a while, you see a picture that takes your breath away.  It stops you in your tracks, and makes you think.  Here's one of mine. Why?  This picture was taken on Julia's birthday in 2008.  It was six weeks before I was diagnosed with cancer.  We held Julia's party two weeks after we moved into our new house.  My mom was in town to visit with us, and it was the first time any of the

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-7912986653898762652010-04-08T08:47:00.000-07:002010-04-08T08:47:00.503-07:00

For a while, things were quiet.  Now, they are starting to pick up again, cancer wise.  Not with me....with others.  And, it's okay. Earlier this week, I met up with folks that I have met through my blog.  Ron is a stage four colon cancer survivor who's still battling his beast, and he and his wife were in town this week visiting family.  We had the chance to meet up for dinner on Monday night,

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-22005181916621518912010-03-25T08:23:00.000-07:002010-03-25T08:23:34.798-07:00

How has it been a week already?  I'm shocked at how quickly the time is flying by, and I just don't know where it's going.  Oh wait - I suppose I do.  :-) It's been another busy week, though it's mainly been personal family things.  All good, though.  Levi's been home all week, which is such a nice treat.  He has been so good baout helping me this week, which has been a life-saver.  I had my

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-37607971319881943282010-03-11T13:19:00.000-07:002010-03-11T13:19:42.744-07:00

Didn't want you all to think that I had forgotten to update you - I've been swamped with things going on, and haven't had time to sit down at the computer and update.  Suffice it to say that the bike run was a rousing success, DIBD was bigger than I could have hoped for, and that I am SO looking forward to a couple of days off!  :-) This weekend will be spent hanging with the kids, (maybe)

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-25082589108139902932010-03-05T07:45:00.000-07:002010-03-05T07:45:40.417-07:00

Are you wearing your blue today?  I am - it's Dress in Blue Day!  I'm wearing my blue Colon Cancer Ass-Kicker tee shirt (with Ass covered with blue painters tape, for work, you know), blue jeans, and black shoes (I didn't have blue ones appropriate for here).  And, I painted my nails blue.  Yes, I did.  (Julia and I both did - she gets such a kick out of that stuff!) This morning, I got up and

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-44052974694639777372010-03-04T08:33:00.000-07:002010-03-04T08:33:18.686-07:00

http://www.kpho.com/video/22734721/index.html Here is the link to the interview that finally aired last night.  Unbelievable.  I don't think I have words to describe how proud I am of how this turned out.  It's amazing....

Michellenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-21946725708315438492010-03-02T06:16:00.003-07:002010-03-02T06:17:14.332-07:00

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-32765637570683095502010-03-01T08:25:00.000-07:002010-03-01T08:25:54.285-07:00

If you're reading this blog, you know how passionate I am about spreading colon cancer awareness.  This month, I will eat, breathe, and live colon cancer awareness (well, for a bit, anyways....).  March is Colon Cancer Awareness month.  This means that, as a nation and as a people, we need to continue to talk about this disease, break down the walls that surround it, and get people to realize

Michellenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-55781119496324666252010-02-25T14:24:00.000-07:002010-02-25T14:24:24.712-07:00

Thanks goes to my friend Patty at work, who created this for me. Yes, I'm having tee-shirts made.  Will post a picture when I get them. 

Michellenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-51470901443590115692010-02-24T11:53:00.000-07:002010-02-24T11:53:54.195-07:00

The media blitz (or, what I hope will be the media blitz) has begin for Central AZ's advocacy in March - I got a call today from a local television station looking to set up an interview regarding Colon Cancer Awareness month.  AWESOME!  I am so excited - while I do enjoy being on tv (um, sort of), I truly get a charge out of knowing that people watch this and we MIGHT have an impact on a single

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-15875964829222278302010-02-24T09:19:00.000-07:002010-02-24T09:19:15.162-07:00

I just got off the phone with my Aunt Nancy - she's the one who made me the amazing Undy quilt.  She called to tell me that the high school is planning to wear BLUE tee shirts next Friday, in celebration of Dress in Blue Day!  I was in tears when she told me.  How cool is this?!?!?!  I can't wait to hear more about it - I am so grateful for her efforts to further this cause, and I am just

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-19620060017503028572010-02-22T14:29:00.000-07:002010-02-22T14:29:29.213-07:00

Shirts that I think you should all look at....a good idea if one was looking for an ideal gift for someone battling this disease, either actively, passively (by living as a colon cancer ass-kicker), or supporting someone with colon cancer.  Fabulous! A good question. My motto. I'd use a different word, but this works for me.  This isn't arrogance.  It's truth.  That's better.  (Oh, I

Michellenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4649876880623368725.post-50455076629247696492010-02-22T07:40:00.000-07:002010-02-22T07:40:11.829-07:00

Working out regularly has many benefits.  There is the sheer goodness for your body - the loss of unnecessary fat and jiggle.  The increased strength and stamina.  The increased energy.  The mental clarity. The bad thing - the pain.  My legs are SO sore.  Not enough to stop me, but sore.  Yikes.... Working through the pain.  I keep telling myself - this is going to be SO worth it when I cross

Michellenoreply@blogger.com1