Bits of This and That Including Tuesday 4

 

Hubby and I had a nice weekend.  On Saturday we went out for a quick lunch and then I took him back home and I headed out to meet with my sister, mother-in-law, and a cousin.  We went to the movies and saw Chonda Pierce's new movie called Roll With It.  All four of us loved it. There was lots of laughter and man, that girl can sing!  Here's a trailer of it.

Sunday we had a great service and then went and spent the afternoon with hubby's mom and his brother, sister-in-law and nephew.  I never even thought to take a picture.  After that we enjoyed the evening at home.  Below, I've posted hubby's pre-recorded sermon.  It's the 4th in his current series.  So just in case any of you have been listening in, I've posted it.

Yesterday, I went and had my annual mammogram and physical exam with the Nurse Practioner at my surgeon's office.  All appears well!  Thank you Jesus!  And this is my friendly public service announcement.  Don't forget your annual mammogram.  You don't want to have to go through what I had to in 2016. 

And now onto Tuesday 4.

Reading

 

Welcome back to Toni Taddeo's Tuesday 4. We enjoy having you here and love reading your responses on your own blogs. I sure hope you enjoy the questions and seeing what others have to say.

Would you like to talk about books?

1.  If you had to flee this life and there was a posibility to actually live in a     place based on a story or book or movie, which would you choose and     why? Not to be boring, but I really can't think of a time that I would rather live in.  I think the last 60 years have brought so many major inventions and conveniences to our world, I can't imagine wanting to live without all that.  While there have been bad things also, there have always been bad things.  So I think I'll just stay right here.  Now, it you're talking our future, I can't wait to see heaven!

2.  What kind of story line do you just not like either in books or movies.I do not like horror stories or anything dealing with demons or the occult.

3   How many of the Great Classics have you read and/or popular book series? I really don't have any idea.  I've read Little Women, several times and the Little House Books.  I've read several of C S Lewis' books and most of the Mitford Series and also most of Karen Kingsbury's books.

4.  There are reading playlists available for various genres of literature. Do you play any music while reading? No, typically I do not listen to music when reading.

Thanks Annie for the Tuesday4 questions.  If anyone else would like to join in, click here.

Thanks for visiting.

Cathy

Thankful Thursday

 I'm so thankful for:

**Health - I visited my surgeon for a 6 month follow-up from the outpatient surgery I had where they removed some abnormal cells/cyst from the area of my mastectomy.  At the time, they said it was not cancer, but took no changes and removed it.  On Tuesday, she told me she took my case before the tumor board and it was decided that there were no cancer cells, but that it was pre-malignant.  Everything looks fine, and I have my annual mammogram scheduled already. What I did learn from this, is that I need to keep vigilant on checking myself.  I'm the one that asked the nurse practitioner to check that place and she decided to do a biopsy right there in the office.  It came back abnormal so the surgeon wanted to see me.  In that visit she decided to remove and scheduled me for surgery.  However, she also stated she never would have done a biopsy on the bump if she had been the one doing my annual exam.  Tuesday, she told me she was very glad that she did remove it and guess, what so am I.  But if I had never said anything, it would have been missed and I might have cancer again right now.  So I'm very thankful God nudged me and had me say something that day.  So, remember, if you ever notice something changed, mention it to you doctor.  I know I will.

**Scripture - I'm so thankful for the verse below that reminds me to let God transform me into the person he wants me to be my changing the way I think.  And also I know that Gods will for me is "good and pleasing and perfect."

There are many other things I'm thankful for, but I'll stop here for now. What are you thankful for this week?  You can link up here or here, if you'd like to join in for Thankful Thursday.

Cathy

Thankful Thursday

 

Click here to link up.

Today I am thankful for

**Thirty-two years ago today, Tracy and I were married. I can hardly believe that it’s been that long. He is my soul mate and my best friend. He is the love of my life and the head of our home. He is my encourager and my biggest fan. I can’t imagine traveling this journey without him. He is a wonderful father and grandpa. He is also my pastor. He follows after Jesus and helps me as I follow Jesus too.  I am so thankful for these years and hope and pray we will have many more. 

**Five years ago today I had my first chemo treatment for Stage 3 breast cancer. I underwent about 5-6 months of chemo and then had a lumpectomy and found that that was not enough and about 3 weeks later I had a complete mastectomy with the removal of many lymph nodes. After healing from that I then underwent about 30 radiation treatments. At that point (early December 2016) they felt they had removed all the cancer. So for the past 5 years now I go twice annually to see my oncologist and I see the surgeon once a year when I have my mammogram. As far as we know I am still cancer free and doing well. God was so good to me through all that year and gave me a peace that I will never understand. I can’t even imagine how I would have made it through without Him. 

So you can see I have lots to be thankful for today.  I am so very blessed.

Cathy

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

 

I am a Survivor.  I was diagnosed in late January, early February of 2016.  I went through months of chemotherapy and then had 2 surgeries and weeks of radiation which ended in December of that year..  

First of all, I am so thankful to God for how He gave me such a peace that I had never had before when I was diagnosed and through all the treatments.  Rarely did I get really scared and I'm the person who has white-coat syndrome really bad.  But that year because of the prayers of everyone, God gave me a peace so that when I went for treatment or for a doctor visit or even surgery, there really was very little fear.  That has got to be a God thing!

I'm also very thankful for my husband and how he was always there with me each step of the way.  He went to every chemo treatment and every radiation treatment except one, I think because he had a doctor's appointment.  He was my rock.

I'm also thankful for my sister who is a 29-30 year survivor.  She called me most days and checked in and was just a real blessing.  She'll never know what she meant to be through that time.  I've tried to tell her, but I just can't really express it fully.

I'm also thankful for every person who said a prayer for me or sent a card or a gift or just a word of encouragement.  You know who you are and I love you.  My church family were also so very supportive.  I can't imagine going through that year with them.

I was blessed with 3 awesome doctors that told me from the beginning they were going for the cure.  They were patient and explained everything they were planning and were just awesome.  Also, every nurse, everyone who administered my chemo, were so awesome!

I am very blessed.

Now, I want to suggest that all of you be sure to get your annual mammogram.  Unfortunately, I hadn't had a mammogram in several years.  Maybe if I had kept up with them, my cancer would not have invaded as much as it did.  I don't beat myself up over it, but I surely don't want you to have to go through what I went through.  Yes, I know mammograms are uncomfortable and sometimes even a little painful.  But trust me it is nothing like all the treatments for cancer.  You better believe I don't miss them any more.  

Take care my friends!

Cathy

Mammograms

Well, today is the day for my annual mammogram. I have to be honest, I was not good about having my mammograms before. But after this past year, I can guarantee I'll never do that again. So here I am in the waiting room waiting to see the doctor. The test is done and I should be getting the results soon. I'll be back after that.

I'm back. All is good!  Praise you Lord. She is happy with my healing progress and I'm praising God and giving Him all the glory.

I made my appointment for next year's mammogram. Not going to miss them anymore.

Now, what about you?  If it's been a year or more, don't wait. Make your appointment right now!  I know they can be uncomfortable. But trust me. It is much less so than all the treatments and surgery I've been through in the last year. Please learn from my mistake and don't do what I did. I really care about all of you who might read this. So take care of yourself and get your mammogram!!

Cathy

Thankful Thursday

A year ago today I had my port put in for chemo. While I was in surgery my father passed away.  So this day one year ago was not such a great day.  But that being said, I guess it wasn't the worst of days either. Without the port, chemo treatments would have been even worse. At least with the port I didn't have to be stuck with a needle every time.


As for my dad's passing, that was the day my dad got to see Jesus face to face. Just think about it. That must have been so awesome. Plus he got to see my mom again and my brother.  He also got to see his parents and his brothers and sisters that passed before him. What a day that must have been. I miss my parents but I wouldn't wish them back for anything. I'm so glad they are no longer suffering and they're in the place I'm striving to get to some day.

I am so thankful to have had the parents that God gave me. I am so blessed. They taught me about Jesus and His saving grace. They showed me how to love and care for others. They truly showed me what it means to be a Christian and to help and be an encouragement to others. I love you mom and dad and miss you both.

I am also thankful for the cancer treatments I've received this last year.  And for all the doctors and nurses and technicians and aids who took care of me. I'm thankful that my treatments are finished and that I'm recovering well.

I'm thankful for my husband who has been with me each and every day of this journey. I'm not sure I would have been strong enough to endure this without him. Thank you God for my husband.

I'm thankful too for each one of you who prayed for me or said an encouraging word. Or maybe you sent me a card or a text or email. Each contact meant so much to me and kept me encouraged. I am so  grateful to each one of you.

Also, I'm thankful for what I've learned about God during all this. How He's shown me how much He loves me and how faithful He is. There have been some really scary times, but God was always there to comfort and love me. I don't know about my future (none of us do). I don't know for sure that the cancer won't come back, but I do know that God is with me no matter what happens. I'm learning to trust Him more and more.  I know I'm in God's hands and that is the best place to be.  And that is where I intend to stay. I hope you know my Jesus too.

It's Monday

It's Monday and For the first time in a while it makes a difference. I went back to work today and actually worked the full shift. Didn't know if I'd have the stamina to do a full shift. But I did it. Not sure if I'll be able to do it tomorrow, but I'll try. And they are so good to me at work and say work if you can, but don't overdo. I am so blessed to have this job. I am so glad to finally be back.

I see the oncologist Friday and find out what's next. I believe it may be tests and if all still clear, it'll be a maintenance plan. 

Thank you God for seeing me through and thank you to all who have prayed and sent words of encouragement to me. That has helped more than you know.

Cathy

Thankful Thursday

It's time to be deliberately thankful. Click the button to link up with Rebecca at Knit by God's Hand. Here are some things I'm thankful for this week.

1.  My burns from radiation treatment have finally healed enough that they've started me back for my final four treatments.  I should not burn again (thank you God).  Did one today and just 3 more.  My last one should be Tuesday.

2.  My hair is growing back.  It's got a lot more white in it than it used to and it's also a lot darker than it used to be.  Still just as straight as ever.  It's still really short and most of the time I wear a hat when out in public.  Although today, I did go out today to a restaurant and to Kohl's with no hat.  Trying to work up the courage to do that all time time.  I'm really tired of the hats.

3.  I'm thankful the plumber came today and fixed my clogged kitchen drain.  So nice to be able to use both sides of the sink and the dishwasher again.

4.  Hubby and I went to a Christmas Light Display last week in Cincinnati.  It was a lot of fun. Plans are to go to another one tonight in Middletown  Hope I can get some better pictures this time.

6.  I'm glad to have my Etsy Shop up and active again.  If you're interested there is a link in my sidebar.

Cathy

Thankful Thursday

I've been gone for awhile, but thought I'd check in today. It's Thankful Thursday at Knit by God's Hand. I know it's late in the day, but I think I'll join in.

1.  I'm thankful to be over halfway through my radiation treatments. God has really been taking care of me. As far as I know, this is the last thing I have to do except for possibly taking a couple of pills daily for awhile.  They believe if there were any cancer cells left after the surgery, that the radiation should take care of it.

2.  I haven't shared here on my blog yet, but if you follow me on FB or Instagram, I'm sure you have seen. I'm a grandma now. And let me tell you I love it. I'm so thankful for my new little grandson. His name is Colton Bryce and he is adorable. Here are a few pictures.  You may want to get used to seeing lots of his pictures, as I'm quite enamored with him.

Just a few days old

Mommy and Colton

Colton sleeping

Finally opened his eyes

Papaw and Colton (first time papaw held him)

He's growing

First time Auntie Kelli got to see Colton

Learning to smile.  I love this picture so much!!

 3.  I'm thankful that Kelli is visiting us this week from Florida.  I have enjoyed being with her so much.  Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures except for the one above with her holding Colton.

So, what are you thankful for this week?

Wednesday Hodgepodge

I know I've been gone awhile, but I thought I'd play along with the Hodgepodge today.



1. Are you watching the Olympics? Your favorite summer Olympic event? I read recently a list of the most iconic Olympic moments in history...what stands out in your mind as a great moment from some past summer Olympic games?
Yes, I'm watching.  Gymnastics is my favorite.  One of my favorites is the 1996 Olympics when Kerri Scruggs landed her vault on her injured ankle.  The whole team was so awesome that year.

2. Have you ever been to Rio? How about the place that started it all-Greece? Have you ever been to any of the Olympic Games in person? Is that something you'd like to do? Have you ever met an Olympian in person?
No, I've never been to Rio or Greece.  I've never been to the games in person, and yes, I'd like to. No, I've never met an Olympian.

3. The ball's in their court (tennis), cross the finish line (track and field), on target (archery), make a splash (diving), on a roll (gymnastics), out of one's depth (swimming)...which Olympic-related idiom best applies to your life right now? Explain.
Cross the finish line.  That is what I'm trying to do in this cancer fight.  Chemo is done and now comes surgery and then radiation.  I've about got it licked.  Prayers for surgery next Tuesday would be much appreciated.

4. What have you earned a 'gold medal' in recently?
Can't think of a thing right now.

5. What is it (or who is it) that motivates you to eat right, exercise, and do what you can to be healthy?
Cancer has motivated me to want to take better care of myself in the future.

6. Are you young at heart or an old soul? Explain.
I'm a bit of each.

7. It's National S'mores Day (August 10th)...are you a fan? Will you celebrate with a s'more today?\
Not really...I like all the components, but not together.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
I've been surprised how much I've enjoyed the swimming events so far this year.  I've never watched them in the past very much.  Also love the volleyball!

Checking In

Hello Everyone!



I know I haven't been around for awhile much, and don't know when I'll be back on a more permanent basis yet. But I thought I'd take a minute and say hello. However, I have been reading your posts and once in a while I comment, but mostly just read. So I am keeping up with you some.

Usually I'm checking from my phone or iPod. Seldom do I come to the computer. I usually just don't feel much like sitting at the computer these days.


I have 2 more chemo treatments to go and then I'll be rescheduled to meet the surgeon again and I'm sure there will be a bunch of scans and stuff I'll have to do so she can make the decision as to what surgery I will need. I'm expecting that to be at the end of July or early August from what they tell me. They like to give you about 4 weeks to recuperate from the chemo. And I'm sure I'll need that time. This part of the chemo has left me extremely weak and I'm now only working 1 day a week. It's really about all I can handle. However, it could be a lot worse and I feel so blessed with how God is taking care of me. Some rash and weakness is so much better than so many people have. So really, I'm not complaining, just telling it as it is.


I appreciate all the prayers you have prayed. I know that's why things are going so well.


Take care and know that I am praying for you too.


Love

Update

How about an update?  I'm doing well.  Good days and not so good days.  But overall, I'm well.

I've completed the 1st round which was the bad chemo (the red devil).  There were 4 of those, 1 every other week and it is done.  I will never have to do that again in my lifetime as I have had the maximum dosage allowed.

I have now started the 2nd round which is Taxol and I have to do that every week for 12 weeks.  I have completed the first 2.  I think the symptoms were a little milder and the Dr. says they should get less and less over the next few weeks and then around week 5 or 6 they may start making me more tired again, but still not be as bad as the others.  That's good news.

I did get to talk to the oncologist yesterday and he seems very pleased.  He said he can tell it's working and that the tumer is shrinking.  Yay!!  Good news!

So life is good and God has everything under control!

So how are you doing?  I've been reading a lot of your posts, but I'm not commenting a lot, just trying to keep up with you.  I'll get back to this blogging thing one of these days.

Tuesday

Hello Everyone! Just wanted to check in and let you all know, I'm still here! lol

I'm doing well. I had a couple semi-hard days and missed work last week, but I feel almost normal right now. I'm learning to understand the doctors and nurses know what they are talking about. Imagine that! Why am I so hardheaded sometimes? They told me I need to eat and I need to rest. Boy are they right! Wish I'd just do the right thing the first time, instead of having to learn it the hard way on my own. lol I go Thursday for my second treatment. Hoping it will go about like the first one or at least no worse. But however it goes, I know God is with me.

We had the memorial service for my dad on Saturday and it was just so nice. Dad would have loved it!! So many family and friends were there. It was like a family reunion. I can just imagine that someday arriving in heaven will be very similar. Seeing friends and family that have gone on before. Sometimes I just can't wait! And now I have another reason to want to go. I plan to do a post on my dad soon. I'm waiting to get a copy of the video we used first. I want to post it here as a memory for me.

Our ladies' Bible study starts tonight. I can't wait. I won't be facilitating this one, but will just be there as a student. So looking forward to it. We are doing Beth Moore's, Believing God. We did this several years ago, however, we have a lot of new people who have never done it. So we thought it was definitely time to do it again. It is the one that has most impacted my life and faith. I'm looking forward to what God is going to say to all of us.

Well, that's all for now. Hope you all have a great day!!!

Battle Plan

We now have a Battle Plan. Several of you have asked and I don't mind sharing.

Here's the simplified version. We'll be starting with approximately 20 weeks of chemo and then surgery will be after that. Then a decision will be made about more chemo or radiation or whatever from that point. My oncologist says we are going for the cure, so the treatment will be very aggressive. He said he never wants me to have to go through this again. I agree with him 100%.

I still have a couple of tests on Monday, then I get the port put in on Tuesday, and chemo starts Thursday. And so we begin.

Again, I thank you for all your prayers to this point. I would also ask, as God brings it to your mind, we would love your continued prayers over the next months.  Also, please pray for my friend Kathy at Empty Nest but Full Heart who is fight her own battle.  I know we would both appreciate it very much.

Thank you!

Update

I think my husband said it best on FB, so I thought I'd share it here.

"UPDATE: We got the results back from the scans Cathy Sempsrott Stephens had done yesterday. Both scans came back clear - NO signs of metastasis!

The doctor says at this point, we are "going for the cure."

We want to express our deepest appreciation to the hundreds of prayers that have gone up on Cathy's behalf across many states. Your well wishes and encouraging words have sustained us through some rough days and nights over the last couple weeks. It is humbling to know how much folks care. We love all of you. Thank you for your prayers and your encouragement.

There are a couple more tests that are still going to be run. They are not really looking or expecting to find anything. Just wanting complete information before the "battle plan" is formulated. We know that the journey ahead will be difficult, but we know that "He who began a good work is faithful to complete it!"

Thank you again, and keep praying!"