Happy New year

Well I am in Cornwall with Phil, Sarah., Sophie ,John , Oscar, Bertie and Benji.  It is lovely. We  are staying a 2 min walk away from the beach. Benji has taken a couple of swim!  Both  Bertie and Benji love the water, so they have been in the sea a lot, Benji following Bertie into the water. We h
ave visited Port Isaac, Wadbridge and Padstow. The evening have been spent playing games and doing a jigsaw, it is very relaxing. We are just about to play scrabble, which we have played every night, hopefully my spelling will get much better. The bottle of champagne is in the fridge and I have already had 1 glass!!
If the weather is right tomorrow Phil, John and I taking part in the Newquay sea dip, so fingers crossed this goes ahead.

All it leaves me to  say is  Happy New year.
I will tackle the New year with the same determination as I last year.




I have already entered a 2 mile swim, 45 mile bike and a 3 mile run in Tenby(it is very hilly)

next July. I also want to see Sally do her Ironman event in Sweden!!..   I also want to go on Holiday with Mo and Shaun somewhere. I have a life to live and I will live it. My only New years resolution is to Stay positive and Happy!!!!!

A Very good Christmas

A brilliant Christmas.
On Christmas eve we went to Celia and Gavin's for lunch which was very enjoyable, then we went to a very pack Christin gale  at the  local church, it was a lovely service. Mum, dad, Phil and Sarah popped up in the evening with their present for us (they do this every year)

     Christmas Morning  was great  as I love the whole thing of having a stocking and  seeing the surprise of the girls face at what you have bought them. A dog walk with Elaine then off to  Mum and Dads for the Christmas Dinner which Sophie helped with. Phil and Sarah joined us in the evening.

      Boxing Day we wall went for a walk in the morning then 18 people came here in the evening for food and Sue and Jeff played the ukele  this year and we had a good sing song, followed by a Phil quiz.
Today I went swimming with Cathy and walked the dog.   Back to normal 

I really enjoyed everything about  this Christmas, so thankful that I had so many good people to share it with.




                                     

Early Christmas with John Parents

I cooked Roast Lamb on Wednesday for Johns parents, the evening was very relaxing and I managed to cook the lamb ok.  I love cooking and I know they both appreciate  an early Christmas here. last year I was too ill too do much , so it feels even better.
Sophie had Friday off and I went for an eye test, did not bother before as I thought I would not make 2018 and seeing I am still here I had my eyes tested and I have also booked to get my asthma checked.
Today I went cycling with Celia , 15 miles and very enjoyable .  This afternoon Mo and Shaun came for a Coffee, ,might have to plan another holiday !!

I am now sat down, the house is clean and Tidy, please note the tidy as I am not the tidiest person, but I do try, but the house is both!!!

Merry Christmas Everyone

Wishing everyone  that reads the blog a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New year.

This year has bought many challenges on every level and I really did not believe I would be here, so I will drink and be very jolly and I hope you all do the same. 

Cardiff with Sally and kate today.

What does a girl need when she is down, a day with her daughter. Bertie and  I caught the train over to see Sally. We took Bertie and Benji for a walk, then went Christmas  shopping. The day was great fun and I loved catching the train, Bertie was very good, we chatted to a lovely couple on the way  there and a nice young man on the way back.
Today I saw Janet for a catch up, then I saw Kate for my usual counselling, it has done me the world of good!!!  I came back and had a really good walk with Heather and Poppy. Some walks are better than others and this one was good..
Tomorrow is really busy  as seeing Emma, Hair cut, then seeing Megan and to finish the day I am cooking Roast Lamb for John's parents, all good fun  !!

I do believe this cancer has made me stronger, I will get my down days, but I know I have such inner strength I will  get through them . Also when things get too much I see Kate !!!!

Father Christmas and Carols at church

I cycled to the sailing club today with Phil where Father Christmas came and handed out Christmas presents to the children, Hot dogs were served by Sue and there was a bar, a lovely event.
In the evening I went to Carols at the local church with Celia, mum and Sophie. I do love singing Christmas carols.
very tired, hence a short blog today. Catching the train to Cardiff tomorrow with Bertie to see Sally !!1 am finding this cancer hard at the moment, but I  get through this little down time. I always do !!!!

Can not believe i am still here.

 Counselling on Monday and I need it as feeling a little down. Tuesday was art and it was good. I went swimming this morning. Then I went Christmas shopping with dad to Yate. I really believed that I would not be doing Christmas shopping with dad, I thought I would either be dead or really ill, so it lovely to do our usual lunch and buy mums Christmas present. This evening I spent wrapping up presents, never thought I  be doing that either !!

My firrst talk

Friday a brilliant meal out with the tri club. Saturday was spent Christmas shopping with Sophie and in the evening we went  Christ the king Church to listen to Stoke Singers, thy were raising money for Brain Tumour support and I gave a short speech  about the charity and why it was important to me. The evening was brilliant and I enjoyed  doing the speech.
Sunday , out and about with Sophie , then a roast dinner at mums, she does a good roast.

This cancer thing

The thing about cancer is that it never really leaves your thought process. You can pretend it is not there, but you know it is. Why I am saying this is because I am a little feed up and tired.  I want to do so much , but I can't and I get frustrated. I done a lot at the weekend and I feel so rubbish today, I have had to miss swimming and that is when I get annoyed at cancer. I do feel better now that the rant is over.

Good session at Art yesterday. Today was pottering as tired.!!

I am living

Saturday I went to the Good Food Show with Sally, Sophie, mum and Sarah in Birmingham. The day was very tiring but great fun. We saw Mary Berry cook duck in the main arena and the girls got there books signed by her.  We tried load of lovely food and tasted the odd bit of alcohol
 .
Today a group of us went to a Santa Run in Brean and ran either 5K or  10K. It was brilliant. I did the canine cross with Bertie, who was so good and is better at the sport  than me. I ran with Katie and it was very hilly. Such good fun. Adrian did his first canine cross with Noo noo and came 4th !!!

Tim came 3rd in the 5K  and John, Lucinda, Andrew and Phil just really enjoyed the event, as for Katie and I we were 2nd to last in the Canine 5K, but  we took in the views, we  looked over at Weston and Clevedon  piers.
After the race Anna and I got chips, along the  very tasty picnic Anna had bought, which included bubbly. Mum bought the  Tea and we needed that as it was cold. Such a lovely time , memories are made of this !!


More weekends like this please !!!!

Jack is getting better and John's Birthday.

Jack is on the mend I am pleased to say. He came out of hospital on Monday and today he came with us for a small dog walk.
As for me , having a puppy in the house is hard work, but good fun . I have been going to shoe box in the mornings, but that has now finished, the boxes are going to Romania this year!!
It is also John's Birthday  today and I feel very pleased to have made it this far !! We have had a lovely meal at home.

Another Hospital

First of all I walked on Saturday, then in the afternoon went to shoe box and Sally and Jack come up, Jack is not his normal self and we though the pain in his belly was trapped wind!!!  By the time we got home he looked worse so 111 was called and Sophie drove them to boots drop in , they said go in A & E which they did. They got seen quickly and the blood test said appendix need to come out, so today  he had them removed at the BRI, he should be home tomorrow. They are  staying here this week, we are getting used to having a puppy  in the house. He will also get loads of TLC.

In the mist of this I did do a cycle ride with Phil and John which was good fun...

A better week

I am helping with shoebox  this week for Samaritans purse. I have been going up in the morning and bagging up sweets, to check boxes you have to think !! It is so interesting, the boxes go to children that have very little and they get great delight in receiving the box.
Art was also good this week, I am getting better so I fell I am achieving something.
I m also in a better mood mentally  which is good. You have to feel sorry for John at times as he has to put up with me !!!

a good weekend

Friday I had a good swim with Cathy, Richard and Alison. Saturday Sally and Jack came over ready for the Dinner and Dance and various people  came to visit Benji.
John and I were guest of honour at the Dinner and Dance, Adrian the Commodore asked us because we have been involved with club for a long time, John has been commodore in the past and I have been involved a lot with the social side. I do love a good party and the evening proved to be just that that, it was just great fun.... Sarah did a good job organising it .....
Today John, Phil and I went for a bike ride, then mum cooked us lunch, then a visit to the pet shop.

I am struggling

It has been a year and I will not lie I am struggling this week. The average person lives 12 -14 months with this cancer !!!

Living with not knowing that you will be alive to go on holiday next year is a hard, but I  am planning to go away. Mentally I am strong, but this cancer even tests that to the max. When I feel like this I feel anti social and I have to push myself hard to go out.

But this is just a faze and I tell myself to get on with it.

I have a lovely week this week, Sarah(Friend) is coming up to TSC dinner and dance name place tomorrow and having my hair cut. I also have the usual swimming  and art to go to.

Well I must get on, writing it down, seems to make things better. Off to art with dad now.  :)

Just plodding along

Friday I had a quiet day, walking Bertie with is mate Poppy. The day allowed me to finish some art and do housework.
Saturday Sally came over with Benji as she was going on a ladies Bike ride somewhere. Sophie and I took him to the sailing club with Bertie and they were both brilliant. Katie popped in for a chat then Sophie and I went Shopping for bit and bobs. In the Evening we went to the Swan at Tyhterington for a meal with Cathy, Kevin, Alison and John. Brilliant meal and brilliant company !!
Sunday I cycled to the sailing club on my own (Felt brave) to meet John after sailing. Great to be there as chatted to loads of people! Off out with  mum later to church. 

fitness getting back

I did a 20 mile bike ride with Annie on Monday with a stop at a pub for a drink and chips, to say I enjoyed it was an understatement. I felt alive!!
Tuesday was art , but I chatted for most of it and not much art was done , but I will finish the picture at home!! and as for today my usual swim , baking and a dog walk with Heather and Poppy.

Sometime I am asked how I live with the cancer, it is never far from my mind , but I am very strong in mind and have become stronger, believing in myself ( Kates helped) and doing what I want to do. I think about it often, but it does not get me down, I accept it. But most of the time I really enjoy life and the friendships that have made me strong.

Fun weekend

Friday at swimming I felt the old Julie come back, I was able to keep up with Cathy, I told Richard to go in the fastest lane as his swimming has now got too good for us and we are not slow !!
Saturday Sally and Jack came over with Benj , a visit to Thornbury with both  dogs was fun, they got loads of attention, in the afternoon we had friends over to see Benji  and then Mum and dad came for tea and we also had some small fireworks  designed for small children, they were perfect . We also had sparklers and I love writing my name in the sky with them!! Then off to a small Party with Friends from the Sailing club which was good fun, plenty of laughs.
Sunday Sophie, John Celia and I went on a 12 mile bike ride, Sophie is learning how to ride her road bike and only forgot the brakes once, when she went into me ! She is doing so well. it was also a great bike ride, so much nature to see.
Off with Annie on another bike ride tomorrow, making the most of feeling good :) 

Everything happens for a reason.

I believe everything happens for a reason, it may not be clear at the time , but it will become clear.
I receive letters from Kathy in America which I enjoy reading, one day I was feeling down and in her letter was a star shaped stone with Hope on, I held it tight and it gave me hope. I also carry a small guardian angel in my hang bag and a unicorn as they give me hope too.
Also since I have been ill  John has got fit, Sophie has become more independent and Sally is following her dreams. It has also made me realize the importance of having my dog Bertie(sat by me now)
I have also been given a book by Aunty Jenny called " 90 min in Heaven" the book not only talks about his time in heaven, it also talks about surviving the car crash and the road to recovering and how he reacted to people and how people treated him, I may  not have been in a car crash but I can relate to his feeling and emotions about ill. Sorry going on a bit , but the book has given me hope and made me more determined to try and help others and not let cancer be a forbidden word.

As for this week, Art was brilliant fun my style of art is very different to dads, he likes building, I find them boring. I realised that I like flowers and slightly odd art, a bit abstract. On Tuesday I painted an oversize rose with a small man watering it. Weird, but I loved doing it.
A very busy Wednesday. Swimming as usual with Cathy and John, Counselling with Kate(everyone needs a Kate) a walk with Elaine and a meal out with John family on Wednesday .
 Today a visit to Cardiff which was great.  Sally and Jacks dog Benji is great

A puppy arrrives

This week has been busy with the usual swimming with Cathy and Richard came on Friday which was great, food shopping with Mo which I do enjoy doing and a 13 mile bike ride today with Phil and John , did a big hill today and felt very pleased at the top. I hope to do a longish bike ride next year if the cancer allows me !

Sally and I went to look at a cockapoo in the countryside of Wales on Wednesday, 3 hours later  after we had a good chat, we were making sure she was ok and visa versa we are bringing him home. He is called Benji, black and white and lovely. We met both the mum and dad and they were good natured I know Sally and Jack will be the best owners out, as Sally has said she has never been without a  dog and I know from the past year the feel good factor of having a dog with you, |I would be lost without Bertie(he is sat next to me now)

Worst and Best year of my life.

I thought I would write this as  an extra blog.

First I never wanted this cancer, I really am not happy with it, and the year has been hard, first the radio therapy where I met some wonderful people, the 6 rounds of chemo which was  very hard.
Then you may say  how can it be the best, while I will tell you.
This year I gave up my job, although I enjoyed the people , the job was just ok. Before the cancer I was  very focused on sport, which probably did not give enough time to Sophie and John. So what has changed you may ask. I wihile her goes!!
first I have come closer to the people I care about , I do art with dad, which is such a privilege to say I do art with him. Mum is just there, a friend.  I  cycle with Phil and John . My John has joined the tri club, he has lost weigh and is pretty fit now. Sally has blossomed in to a triathlete and a well balanced person. She doing a full Iron man next year( 2.2mile swim, 100 miles Bike , 26 mile run I think) I want to make it to Sweden next year. My illness has stopped me molly coddling  Sophie and let her be the grown up young lady she is., she is also my taxi !!  . I also feel very lucky that Sally has Jack, who is like my son( he has been mistaken for my son and I do not correct people)
 I have a new weekly routine. Dog walking with Heather. and Emma  ,  weekly food Shopping with Mo and Art with dad. I spend time with mum  walking , she also takes me to many places. I still walk with Celia and Elaine and swim with Cathy and sometime Alison, It has made me realise swimming is my real passion, just  being in the water makes me feel good.. Simple pleasures I enjoy more like Sunday lunch at Mum with Phil and Sarah, watching birds in the garden, making cakes with Sophie and just being with Bertie my dog. I  have also discovered I am a stronger person than I though, who can make who own decisions and guide her own path...
We have done some amazing things and I never say no to anything ,I am listening to a ukele band on Thursday
I do wish with all my heart I did not have cancer and do find it hard not knowing if I will be around next year, but I am determined to give it a good go.

Busy, but I do get tired.

A lovely weekend, doing jobs with Sophie on Saturday, which included buying a bird bath and going to the cake decorating shop. To finish the day a evening with Strictly .
Sunday Phil and I went on  bike ride to the sailing club via Old down, didn't plan it to well as though I managed to do a route without hills, then when we were cycling down one , realized we have to back up one, opps !! but it was ok, easier with clip ons. Phil is very good cycling buddy as we are about the same speed. 
We met John and the club ( did not cycle back )and Sophie and Sarah drove down, really missing walking Bertie, he is fed up too. Sophie and I also spend most of the afternoon giving her room a good sort out . Off to Mum and dads for a roast dinner. Never refuse a roast dinner
O yes the bit about getting tired, I just feel more tired after doing thing than I used

Bertie has kennel cough

Monday evening we thought Bertie was not right, Tuesday Morning we thought he had a bone stuck in his throat, so off to the vets. We only made reception and they said they thought it was kennel cough and we had to go on a room on our own, the vet was not sure so they sedated him and x rayed him, in the end it was kennel cough. He is not allowed to be walked or mixed with other dogs for 2 weeks as it is very contagious .
So my plans had to be changed. I had planned to take him to Glebe  but cancelled, humans can not get it, but I like being on the safe side.
Art was good this week, the people make it. Back to swimming with John and Cathy .Today Emma came for a cup of tea, always good to see her. I then tried to back bread, disaster , but will try again.  I went to Thornbury with mum in the afternoon  for my eyebrows to be  waxed.
I also had a coached swim session with the tri club  this evening, I need to keep my head down more. I also did 4 length pacing a 25 year old. I kept up with him !!!!! it was good fun..
Tomorrow  a swim with Cathy and food shopping with Mo, plenty of ingredients to buy as trying new recipe's.

walking, cycling, swimming and a spa afternoon to finish off

First Mo and I were back to our usual food shopping Friday, keeping the diet healthy. In the evening we went to see Crazy for You at the hippodrome, it was excellent, singing, dancing and so very good songs..
Saturday  morning Sophie and I went for a cockapoo group walk at Aston Court, where we met up with 40 other cockerpoo's and their owners, manic it was, but brilliant fun !!  In the afternoon John and I went on a cycle ride with my new clip on's.
Sunday morning John and I went to Cromhall Quarry for a swim as I have not swam there, I only did one lap and I really enjoyed it.
Sally, Mum, Sophie and I went to the Bristolian for lunch ( very good)then went  for a spa treatment. We went to the Ballantine Spa which was ok, the pool was lovely and so was the hot tub. Sally and I then went for our massage which was  late, then we went into a room and got ready , only to be asked to be moved as they wanted it for a couple, having the girl said my cancer was not a problem , another girl came in and questioned my cancer and should I have a massage, having discussed it I finally got a massage ( hooray) and the girl  did a very good job. Sophie went in after me and we waited with mum to go in. We waited a while and then asked when she would go in, they had forgotten her!! She did get her massage and it was good !!A lovely afternoon with the girls, best memories!!!!

Back from Venice

The last day of Venice we visited the Palace and the  cathedral that I can not remember the name of in St Marks square. Both were amazing . First the palace which was very interesting, the prison part  I found more interesting, the conditions they lived in was horrible. The Cathedral  was just brilliant and even I felt lost for words(That does  not happen that much). a lovely meal and a final visit to St Mark square.
The taxi  ( speedboat) took us to the airport in the morning, The journey was quick and it felt like we were in a James Bond movie!!  I  did look for James Bond !!!!
I had a ball in Venice, Mo and I  did a good job not loosing John and Shaun, we did look around once and could not see them, but they found us. We were known for popping into handbag shops!!
When we got home Sally surprised us with a roast dinner with mum and dad coming up too. I was so hungry and the meal was good.

Back home and a walk with Heather, a visit from Elaine. Dad also took me to my flu jab via the coffee shop.

Venice

John and I are in Venice with Shaun and Mo. We have done so much. We are staying 5 min walk from St Mark Square , so very central. Yesterday we walked around a lot of Venice exploring and going into bag shops !! Today we went by boat to Murano where they do all the glass. We also  had Jackie and Dave with us, there cruise ship happened to be in Venice today. We also visited Burano where they made lace, both fantastic places to visit. The sun was out and with good company what more could you ask for !!  The day finished with drinking Prosecco In St Marks square listening to s 5 piece band playing The  Sound of Music, Clare (My sister who died years ago in a riding accident )
and I used to sing together, The song I am sixteen going on seventeen  was our favourite, she was the  female and I was the male. Such good memories.  What more can a girl want. Another good day planned tomorrow so I will  blog again. I have also been in loads wonderful churches and ate plenty of good food.

Gloe Swim

15 members from the tri club went tp Vobster Quarry for a night swim. The swim started at 8pm when it was dark and there was a full moon. It was different, we all got into the quarry with a glow sticks attached to our swim hat and attempted to swim in a straight line , it was hard, some people had lost there glow sticks and keep a straight line in the dark was not easy !! I manages one lap, John did 2, so did Gavin and Richard.  Did I enjoy it,? I think so, would I do it again ? not sure.  But it was a great experience.

something shared..

I though I would let you know something about cancer, it makes you do the weirdest things. I can not being to hope that I will be one of the lucky ones to make 2 years, I can not believe I will have made it to a year at the beginning of November . In moments of madness I have done some things like clearing out my wardrobe (thinking I might not need the cloth again)so now I am going away I really do not have any nice cloths, I have refused to buy cloths all summer, hence more shopping with mum and Sarah on Monday. I have had the family telling me what to wear on holiday.  I have also cleared out all the cupboards and I have got a little addicted  to looking for things to get rid off..

For me I do find living with cancer hard, planning family holidays for next year is proving hard for me. we are booking them, but I know there is a chance I will not be on them.  I think I am ready to talk to there people with terminal cancer and how they are coping. Kate tomorrow  and a hair cut, I need both !!

I have clip on for my bike

My bug is going, 2 lots of anti biotic and plenty of rest I am winning.
Yesterday I walked Bertie with his best mate Poppy, then in the afternoon I picked up my clip on for my bike. I am now the proud owner of mountain bike shoes.I only got them because Sally and John nagged me a lot!!!! The peddles were changed at the shop and this nice man gave me a lesson on my bike on a trainer in the shop. Feeling confident  and brave went on the road at home and today with Phil I cycled to mum's. Following my cousin Denise ( she is doing 64 miles for women v  cancer) example I hope to do more on the bike, so I have to fight this cancer really hard now so I can be fit enough to do a bike ride.    I also want to get Sophie on the bike as I have given her my old road bike.

Weston Super Mare

 Extra blog today.
I went to Weston today with Sarah , Oscar and Bertie . It was great. We walked to Uphill , but on the way we met loads of other dogs and they told us about a  good café in Uphill (we had planned to eat In Weston), but curious to see what it was like we walked there. The café  was located up a side road, we were not disappointed the food was very good and the sun came out. We had a  lovely walk back, it was so relaxed and it just what I needed.

photos to put on when Sophie does it

still rubbish

With John being away and feeling let just say I have been tearful when I am on my own. I know I need a Kate visit , luckily  I have one next week. Although I can not do the Monster race at the weekend, I still hope to do the night glow swim on Wednesday. John home tomorrow evening and I am off to Weston tomorrow with Sarah and the dogs , looking forward to a good walk !!

Good neighbours and good doctors

Today I phoned up the doctors to cancel my flu jab because of the cold, at the same time I asked about my sore throat, they said they would get a doctor to phone me, not only did they phone , I got a doctors appointment and I am now on anti biotic s  , they also gave me a blood test to check my  white cell count I think.  I am so glad to have good neighbours. Irene took me to the doctors with 5 min notice and Heather took me to get my prescription and a little shopping.

feeling rubbish

I have a sore throat and a cough. I feel rubbish. So this weekend I have done nothing, but Sally and Jack have been home and I have seen Phil, mum and dad. Bertie has also had Poppy in to play.

art and swimming

Yesterday I went to art with dad, I do enjoy going , I am not that great up to the others but the company is very good !!
Today I went swimming, John did not faint today and Cathy was  back, Richard also came . It is so sociable swimming. John has always said I chat more than I swim and I did today, but I will get back to the length next week!!

walking and London

Saturday- Out on normal walk and I am back to the 6 miles on the Downs and it felt great. Then collected Sally new bike ready for the Ironman  next year. I also had a bike fitting, ordered some clip on's .(bike shoes) My new challenge to master them !!

Sunday- London here we come !!!  Anna took us to London and it was fantastic.  We start the day with bunch at the Wolseley ( very Posh place, Sally and I shared a glass of champagne as a whole glass would have been to much) then on to the art galley, then Liberty's, Hamleys to name but a few shop. Anna was chuffed eith the freee tot bag from the Chanel perfume shop.  We finish the day with coffee and ice cream in Fortnum and Mason. Such a brilliant day, with our own personal tour guide, What Anna does not know about shopping in London is not worth knowing. We smiled all day. Thank you Anna!!

Here we go again.

I have a story really
John and I went swimming on Wednesday,  we swam in the same lane and I allowed John to go faster than me, as I am not really that competitive !!!!. We had swam about 30 lengths and decided to do some float work, my float is on the side, but John get out to get his float. This is where it gets interesting, John faints and flops into the pool, I grab him and get him out of the pool (not sure how I did it) and shout for help and we end up in the medical room , who call an ambulance , so we have Adam a paramedic come, he was brilliant, he does load of tests, the leisure centre was fantastic , moving people around so Adam could check John over.
We end up going to Southmead Hospital where he is checked over, he ends up on the cardiac ward and gets a full MOT, nothing wrong, he just had a "normal" faint, the consultant  also had a good sense of humour and told John not to compete with his wife when swimming.!!!!  and  that most people in there lives will faint and they can make you feel funny for 30 min. However I did remind John  that when most people faint they do not end up trying to drown themselves !!!!!!,

Walking and Standard tralthlon for Sally today

Yesterday I  power walked with mum, it is surprising how easy it is to us loose your confidence with sport when you do not do it all the time, we did a good walk so confidence restores. Shopping in the afternoon, getting bits and pieces with mum and the girls.
Today Sally did a standard tri in the Cotswolds, she did well. it was cold and raining for some of it, but it was great to watch and I do love going to events.

Not sure how to live

There are no books to tell you how to live now.. I do keep myself busy, meeting Aunty Pat with mum in Thornbury this morning and making  our yearly apple chutney with Janet this afternoon.
However I do feel lost sometimes. there is no chemo and that scares me, it has been part of my life for so long, it has become the normal. However I do have to live and however weird to sounds it feels hard at times.
My usual food shopping with Mo tomorrow which I do enjoy as Mo makes me laugh.
I do worry the cancer will come back quickly, but I am good at not dwelling on it most time, but sometimes it does hit me. Mo does laugh when I tell her I can now think of October, living one day, one week and not thinking further than a month ahead, I am too scared to go that far, to think I may be one of the lucky ones that lives longer with this cancer.

Cotwold sprint trilathlon

We left the house at 5.30 am, after an hours drive we were there, it is busy from there on. putting bikes on rakes , numbers being put on legs and  queuing for the toilet( moan , there is always a long queue for the toilet!!!!!!) Lucinda from the club goes first into the swim, followed by John, Gavin and Andrew, then Sally, then Phil.  Sally did a very good swim, then I go on the bike for 12 miles, windy, but I enjoy it ... It took me 45 min and I did feel a little burn in the top of my legs. I felt alive !!! Richard followed with a really good run. Everyone did really well.
We also really  appreciate the supporters that come up and it was great the hear Celia, Mum and Sophie cheering us on. It does make all the difference.  Mum took her flask and handed out a well earned cup of tea at the end to go with BLT s we had made the night before.
When you are at these sporting evens, it makes you feel so good, cancer is a million miles away!!!!

Running with John and reg for tri

Today I went for my first run with John in my new legging, they are bright , but I love them.
Then we went to the Cotswolds to register for the event. John is doing his first tri and Sally, Richard and I are doing the relay( still can not do lake swimming)  Phil, Gavin and other member of our tri club are taking part. We had a lovely day and looking forward to the event..It makes me feel normal !!!
Picture of me in my new run

ning gear.!!   Will let know how we all get on as it is a family affair

Tenby

John and Sally have just done 5 days sailing in Tenby.  There were 100 boat racing each day and the pair were mid fleet, some races they were near the top, other not so good, but they did enjoy it.
For Sophie Jack and I we visited Caldy Island where the monks are, but we did not see one !!!. the island itself was  lovely and a real escapism place.
We have Kayaks so we spent everyday kayaking. I also did a couple of good swims in the sea, although I did not like the jelly fish !!  We also had a go on a inflatable Sofia which got towed by a power boat. Jack fancied having  a go and Sophie and I thought it would be good fun, it was, although I held on very tight !!   We also met some lovely people...
All in all a good week was had by all. I am doing the bike leg of a sprint tri on Sunday so off to reg and get the pack tomorrow.

Off to Tenby

Going to Tenby tomorrow as John and Sally sailing. Yes I am looking forward to the break. Sophie , Jack and I are going just enjoy being on the beach and visit some places. maybe watch some of the sailing...

How I feel

The aim of this blog was not only for me to write and get my feeling on paper, but to give everyone on insight to how it feels to have cancer.
Today I feel unsettled, the chemo is finished and I am not sure what is next, I guess it is a waiting game to see  when the cancer returns and that nobody knows. I feel ok, tired at times and I do not look like that I am ill and sometimes I can convince myself that I am not ill, but I know I am.. I am trying very hard to stay upbeat and not letting negative thought appear.  I have Kate the counsellor today and I am sure we can put the world to rights there. She is amazing..  On  a lighter note I do make Mo laugh I will now plan to do things in October !!. I find it hard to forward think..

Tenby on Saturday as John and Sally are sailing for the week. RS200 Nationals (Dingy we have) I did the week once and it was way to competitive for me !!!

Sally' 1/2 iron man in Dublin

The 5 of us caught the ferry on Friday from Holyhead, rough crossing and glad to get there.
The  hotel we stayed in was lovely and close to the start of the race.
Saturday Sally had to register, put her bike in and go for a practice swim, busy day. We also tried to drive the cycle route, this proved to be hard as there was one way systems , closed roads and John had a puncture !!! In the evening Phil, Sarah, Katie and Sam joined us for a meal, very nice !!

Sunday we were out of the hotel by 5.30 am ,  a walk to the swim start and for Sally go get ready!!
at 7 the pro's started there  swim, followed by the other 2000 people taking part, amazing sight watching them all go in a swim, then we managed to watch Sally get out of the water and get on her bike, off she went for a 56 mile bike ride to Dublin , Phil and Sarah were able to catch her going though Dublin. 
We all Met in Dublin Park  to watch her run, she still looked good, 13.5 miles later and in a time of 6 hours 33 seconds she finished. So proud... She also raised over £2000 for Brain Tumour Research .
She had plenty of support and the atmosphere at the park was amazing, we also walked some miles that day. We all finished  the day going to Nando's and having A Teddy's ice cream..

Mon. Sally was tired, a little walk into town , then we headed home on the Ferry..

Sailing and going away

Yesterday I went on Sarah's cruiser with John, Alan and Fergus . Great sail to the other side of the river, had lunch on the boat then back. Windy  and Choppy, I felt alright. Proud of myself till I got home and my head felt like I was still sailing, this carried on till the next day!!!  Still spinning now... I like the thought of big boat sailing, but it really does not like me, best  stick  dingy sailing, closer to the water !!!
So today I did not a lot . . Just lunch with Megan and Sera which was lovely.

Dublin on |Friday, so might not blog at weekend. Sally is doing her half Iron man event which she trained very hard for. Sarah and Phil are also coming , so is Sally's Friends Katie and Sam.  So she will have plenty of people to cheer her on.....

Sailing with John

Saturday I went cycling with Phil and John,. Sally Richard and Jack cycled about the longer route.
Today I went sailing with John, I did not want to go really, but I had a great sail with him, the wind was just right.  Came home and the girls had  done the house work, brilliant , just ironing to do, life goes on as normal.. A visit from John Parents, then a Sunday Roast, good Sunday all round....

Cardiff and Castle Coombe

Well, I am living. I have been out every day and it is great. Still feeling sick at time from the chemo. Had to do only a short walk on Monday due to chemo legs
 and feeling sick, but I can put up with that.
Fantastic lunch with mum and dad at Ronnie in Thornbury on Tuesday lunch time.
Today Mum and I caught the train to Cardiff to visit Sally and we went in the international Pool there, it was great, I wore my wild happy swimming hat with pride(Chris gave it to me) it has a big smiley face on it !!. Not allowed to lake swim yet, but this was close.
In the Evening Sally, John, Richard and Gavin, plus 9 others from the tri club  went to Castle Coombe for a bike time trail, it was so interesting.
My days are full but I am enjoying life, I am trying hard to live and sometime forget that I even have this horrible cancer, at times it is easy , other times it is hard !!  But do you what family life feels normal and that the way it should be. At the moment Sophie is feeding Bertie Crunchy Nut cereal too wind Sally  and I up !!! 

a cheer for living

This week has been good, although I did not feel well enough to swim or walk, but I have had fun.
A few hours in Chepstow, shopping at the mail and going out with Sophie and Sally.
Tomorrow I am going to go for a bike ride and back to walking on Monday. I am also trying to get 2 swims in. I read a book Chris gave me called Swimming with Smiles, brilliant, the story's in there would make anyone want to swim, there was a lot of people who have swam the channel either relay or solo, lets just say I would not want to do it, but I do admire them !!!!    But some stories were just about people loving swimming and that is where I come in, I love the feeling of being in the water and I epically love being outdoor swimming in the sea, freedom and feeling of being at one with nature.  At counselling this week we chatted about how tired I got after sport and getting the balance right, which is hard as my does get very tired, but my love of sport is so great I think it is worth it and the buzz I get when I compete (aim to Finish) and an event is great.  I am also lucky enough to do my sports and events with some great people who always believe in me ...... I also get to chat a lot... but not all the time, can not chat while swimming ..have tried !!!

Forgot to say took a gamble and took the watch off on Friday and I did not feel sick, I told Mo it was mind over matter..it worked !!

will not be bloging so much

My treatments have finished and I am still feeling sick, but getting out.

I do not want this blog to be a boring dairy of my life so hence I will only blog once or twice a week, the consultant said having been on treatment for so long , now is the time to live, then she said I have been living with it! 
So now I am going to  just bring you the highlight each week.

feeling very sick

Gosh, I had forgotten how rubbish it is feeling so sick. I am not in bed , but with out Mo's sickness watch I feel terrible than I do. Sally surprised me by popping back home because I was feeling rubbish. It did cheer me up...
I also popped over to see Janet for a change of 4 walls.  But the day has been spent doing not a lot. Bit bored at the moment , only so much TV you can watch. Bored of craft and reading book, I have always had the attention span of a sparrow, hence why I do a lot of sport. Hope to back in the pool on Friday  and walking on Saturday...

feeling rubbish

I had almost forgotten  how rubbish I feel on chemo. Stayed in today feeling very sick and generally rubbish.  Thought about going out, but did not get there. I does scare me a little   that  this is the last one. I will have a scan at some point, but no one is going to know, not even those close to me!! I just have to stay strong and it hard at times.

meeting the girls

I met the girls from college today , it was great to catch up, after 2 years I still miss working at the college and the friends I made. Then I went into Glebe as it was on my way home and  felt very at home, although I do not regret leaving. I do miss the people very much. I think I will always pop into Glebe as it is so close.
Chemo this evening, it does make me feel bad , but hay ho!!

A day in Bath

A lovely day today as we went to Bath.  Great day out, got lost getting  back to the car park, then got soaked on the way back, then could not find the car and got even wetter, but we did laugh!!!

Chemo this evening, feeling unsettled at the moment, but generally do before each chemo as know I will not be feeling great.....

last chemo .

I  start my last chemo this week, hopefully Wednesday evening.   I am still tired from the swim , so have not done a lot today, a boring day really...

Poole and Bownsea Island swim

Well, where do I start.
First John, Sally Jack, Sophie all travelled down on Friday night in the rain. Phil and Sarah came down on the Saturday. Saturday Chris came for a practice swim, the sea was rough but brilliant fun, Phil and Sarah arrived for lunch then Sally , Sophie, Jack went back in with Phil for another swim !!

 Fish and chips in the evening, perfect day!!

Day of the swim, Chris pick me up at 6 in the morning, we get to Sandbank, register, then over on the ferry to Brownsea Island. Chris know so many people that are really friendly and have done a vast amount of open water swimming.  The 4 milers go First and I must say so are going a very fast pace.

We  then hop on a boat and head towards our start. The start was very interesting.
Both Chris and I slide off the boat and head towards the start which is a rope with bouys on moored between 2 boats ! .   We hold on to the bouys  then 1 min before the start we duck under the rope and start swimming !! It was choppy and I swallowed  a lot of water, I did find it hard, but with Chris swimming along side me I felt good. I will not lie , I did find it hard and I would not have wanted to do it without Chris. We completed the swim in 62 min !  So so pleased. I was lost for words. Cancer can not take this away.
The outing finished with a picnic with everyone who had come to watch.  They had a good boat ride watching the swimmers and they looked around the island. I really appreciate the family being there for me.

Poole for the weekend

We are in Poole, hoping to do the Brownsea Island swim with Chris on Sunday Morning(Fingers crossed) I hope to swim 1/2  way round the island which is 2 miles. If I was well it would be the 4.
But with old shoulder playing up, 2 it is.  I am so grateful to Chris  who is going to be my swimming buddy.  can not wait !!!
Back to this morning, Jack took me to have my platelet bloods taken I Will know on Monday if I can have the last lot of chemo) then Tesco for some bits and bobs. Home to back scone for Patchway Festival flower show, I baked them the wrong size scones, it was too late to bake some more!.

Bertie under the weather

It has not been my best couple of days, Bertie has been to the vets, a little under the weather, 2 injections later and some tablets he is now ok. But I was surprised how it effected me and my mood, it got me a bit down. That  little dog just keeps my spirits up.
But today has been a lovely day.   Coffee at the garden centre, then Julie came for lunch.
This evening I went to the lake with John, he swam and I chatted !!! Then he took me for a sports massage on my back and shoulder, a little sore from the swimming and sailing.

feeling a little fed up

I am looking forward to the swim, but as it gets closer I know chemo also is and the thought of feeling ill again is not great.
 Good dog walk with Judith and a nice cup pf tea with Janet made it a relaxing day.
The training tapers this week and I am ready for it, I have a sports massage booked for Thursday.
Walking this evening with Elaine and Celia which I am looking forward too.

walking

I did not want to walk, feeling a little sorry for myself, fed up at not driving  not having as much energy as I   want or used to have. But I did walk just over 6 miles and it was brilliant . On the Downs and into Aston Court with mum and Celia. Felt good at the end. 
In the afternoon off to Tesco to buy some sugar for jam making. Blackberries in freezer for nearly a year, so going to do something with them.
This evening John is cooking steak, eating all the right foods for the following weekend !!!!

Tired

You may have gathered from the blogs I have been doing a lot lately, but this week I think it has caught up with me. So I am trying to slow down.  So today I just dog  walked with Emma and had my hair cut. I do love going to the Salon and Natalie does wonders with my hair, it is such a treat. Mum is good at taking me places, really missing not driving.
I also went to Cromwell quarry  to watch John swim. I am still not allowed to go into open water  as risk of infection,  so Bertie and I went for a walk there...

Did not want to swim but did !!!

Well, I did not want to do a long swim, sore shoulder and tired. But John took me and I did swim and I did enjoy the later part of the  swim, I am no sprinter and swim better after I have been in the water for a bit.
Today I also feet anti - social so after swimming I was determined to be on my own all day, but I did text Heather to go for a walk, which was great.

PS  the grumpy old man at swimming( His words) says my grammar and spelling is hit and miss. We  laughed and I said I knew it was bad and I used to get John to check it, but stopped as people will get to know who I am with it as it is . Oh and the man at swimming is very nice !!

Fitness training

Well today I have admitted I am doing too much.  So I did not walk with the girls but managed to get in a last minute sports massage, back a little sore at the moment, old problems rearing it head, when I was not doing a lot it was ok, but more swimming etc, I  need help.
Forgot to say did do a bike ride with Richard, with a subway  roll in the middle. I think we cycled about 8 miles. good fun , but that did not help the back, but so what !!

Sophie is 21

A very busy few days.
Friday we went into town and went for a meal, then a walk along the water front. A lovely evening with my grown up children.
Saturday we had a Pamper afternoon with afternoon tea with the girls. The food was planned by Sally, it was great , then Sally  had also booked a beautician and we  had either a massage, pedicure or manicure, she was excellent.
In the evening we has family and friends for  a BBQ with Jack and Sam doing games, which included giant space hopper races . Brilliant fun with fantastic company.
Now it is Sunday and I have been clearing up all morning and might go sailing  later if not to windy.

Poole

Today we drove to Poole for a practice swim with Chris,  it was great, I felt alive, so looking forward to the main swim
. We also met John's brother and his wife Annette, a great lunch out , it was good to see them too as they live in Sweden, plenty of catching up !. 

Sophie college celebration

Yesterday John, mum and I went to watch Sophie collect her certificate  at City Hall. The mayor of Bristol presented them, it was great, drinks and cake. We are so proud of her. the course she has been on allows adults with extra needs go into the work place ,they  support them and help them find a job. They do a brilliant job..Sophie started an apprentice doing office work a month ago and she is enjoying going to work every day.

A Party

Last night I  threw a party for family and close friends, also friends I had not seen in years.
It was great, the friends I had not seen in a long time  have not changed. It was also a bit of a fun raiser  and we are still checking figures as many people have made donations!. it was a great night and I really enjoyed  my self. 

Today we took our visitors to the sailing club, they went out with Mo and Shaun on the cruiser.
John also took some people out, it was great and because Julie was doing pasta bake we ended up eating there too. Great day out.

Also I want to say well done to Helen from the sports centre who ran 100k for Macmillan.
It is such an amazing thing to and the training must have been hard.

My thoughts

I was up the Mall today buying Sally some lovely pearl earing and the assistant thought she was a bride buying them for her wedding, moments like that make be fully aware that I am ill and that there is a good chance I will not be around to her get married. But I am glad to have a daughter that I am close too and maybe if I was not ill we would not see it other too much. I do cherish every moment spent with family and friends.

tired

the rubbish thing about chemo is that it effects you long after  the treatment has finished. I ma still tired and when  I swim or run I need a rest afterwards. Today was a very quiet day and I needed it!!

a good day

I thought I would let you know what a lovely day I have had. First thing I went swimming with mum and it felt good, then a dog walk  with Heather and Poppy via Glebe House to deliver cupcakes as I have now finished working there. This afternoon I went to art and drew a tulip and was very pleased with my work !!!  Tired now !!

very very quiet

A peaceful day at home. Mum came up and we did some running around, pain not being able to drive. Bertie was also able to play with Poppy again after she had finished her season.  I
also spoke to Chris who is supporting me in the swim which is in 4 weeks, 3 weeks hard training. Walking later with the girls tonight. Tomorrow I will swim and go to art.

Early start

We were up at 5 am to go and watch Sally do an Olympic distance course tri. Sally done very well , finishing 3rd in her age group. There was some really fit people there. Our job was to shout encouragement at her coming out of the swim, on the bike and when she was running. It was brilliant to watch and I do fell proud of her.
We also took Bertie, but he was not impressed with the day as it drizzled the whole time and he got cold, so maybe we will not take him to the next one. 
We were home by 12 and spent the rest of the day pottering, in pyjamas  by 7,it feels like 10 o'clock.

still feeling sick

woke up this morning feeling totally fed up as sickness not going away. Also spoke to Brain Tumour research yesterday and that stirred  up load of emotions.
Then Mo came , had a little cry and a moan and do you what I had a good day. Mo took me food shopping and Sophie has told me there is still no food in the fridge, did forget to buy some things.
Then a small cycle ride which was good.
We also went to the mail with Sophie and bought a top in the sale  to wear to Sophie's birthday.

good old sickness

There is one thing you can guarantee about being on chemo is feeling sick and this time round boy do I feel sick. Mum walked Bertie today and Julie popped in for lunch. no tablets today, but I do feel sick.   Going to get on the bike tomorrow whether I feel sick or not. !!!

very sick

just to say sorry for not blogging,but feeling very sick and tired but in good spirits .

had a fantastic day on Sunday, sailed one race with John  Sophie sailed the other.

Regatta

Vets with Bertie for annual jabs then popped to the club for regatta , but did not stay to long and not going down this evening as must be sensible and avoid crowds because of the chemo, but if the wind is right might go for a sail tomorrow . I hope  I do not feel so sick..

Very quiet day

Today John took me to M &S, then I spent the rest of the day doing not a lot. I saw mum for a bit in the morning and Janet popped over. oh I did go to a Body Shop party  in the evening , which was good fun.  Back early to take chemo. Trying to be good and not over do things as I want to recover quickly from it. The sickness has come back.

chemo again

First of all  I had a good night out   at the comedy festival which was very good, although I did not get some of the jokes.
I have been tired today. So I just cut Bertie and Oscar ready for  heat wave!!!The afternoon was laid back as Julie came around for lunch.
Chemo has started again , but bring it on. they still managed to give me the big tablets..

Art

Today was back to normal, walking Bertie(forgot I was walking with Judith, thought she was away !!) then  food shopping , which I now get pleasure from and Art which I really enjoy.
I was the model last week and some of them gave me the pictures they painted and they are brilliant, so happy. Off to Tesco with Sophie to buy some summer tops and the food Aldi does not do..

The hospital

I went to the hospital today to see if I could have the next round of chemo. I saw Mr Herbert which as laid a ghost to rest , as when I realised it was him, I panicked a bit, thinking bead news, but all was ok. I told him I was not tired from the chemo, but from a 26 mile walk, he smiled. He said at least I was living !! I start the next lot of chemo on Thursday.  I also got the next lot of chemo delayed so I could do my open water swim, telling him I was doing it with someone!!
I only allowed in the sea a week before and I am not allowed in a lake !!But happy with that I can do the swim..

Moonwalk 26.2 miles. with a little help from my friends..

We completed the Moonwalk  (it is a midnight walk raising money for breast cancer . We all walked in decorated bra's, jungle theme) I aimed to do 13 miles but I did 26.2 miles  in 7 hours 20 min. We are a team Celia, Elaine, Mum, Sally and I. We all walked together and it was amazing to do it. It was hard and at 17 miles I hit a big wall and was in tears, aching all over, I was with Celia and she got me thought it, then the others only a few steps ahead, stopped for shoes laces, realised I  was struggling. Elaine gave me some paracitamol  and with everyone pushing me on I kept going, it was so hard, but mentally I was strong and very determined. We are a team and we work well together, supporting  and believing in each other each other . crossing the finishing line arm in arm is a moment I will never forget.
 I am so proud of the girls and it proves with great friends you can achieve anything.
Edinburgh is a lovely place

3 generations

waiting to go !!!

25 miles and near the end !!

 Saturday we walked up to the castle and had a lovely lunch. As the walk did not start till 11.30 at night we had the day to potter.
 We  had tea in the palace on the Sunday,  but with 2 hours sleep and aching all over I  think it was lost on me!!

 We did it,medals to prove it !!

lunch out and more walking

A dog walk with Judith and Slinky this morning. Lunch with Megan and walking this evening, so feeling tired now.
Off to Edinburgh tomorrow to hopefully do a 26 mile walk. I have registered to do 26  before I was ill, but will do as many as I can. fingers crossed I can do it all. it is a midnight walk and we are all walking in our bra's. It should be brilliant fun. We are staying in an apartment in a hotel. !! we have done 3 walk the walk events before!!!
So no blogging till Monday evening.

swimming

I swam first thing with Cathy, a good swim and the speed is getting back. I also walked with Heather and Poppy via the village shop for a drink on the bench outside. Enjoying not working and taking my time to do things..

More walking

A quiet day, tea and cake with Jane and Marilyn  which I always enjoy.  This evening I went walking , felt the good, the  pace felt relaxed.

A bit bruised

A little bruised after falling over, thank goodness for epsom salts.   Today all we did pop to see mum and dad  and tried to be tidy.  Need to be good and rest this week as we have the walk at the weekend.

walking

walked 8 miles the morning, great fun. Did have a mishap, I was busy calling some cyclist  idoits under my breath for jumping over the speed bumps that I fell over one, stopped the fall with my hand, but grazed my knee. More embarrassed than anything else, John laughed when I  got home .
Sailing club to do an American Supper for the last sail training. Got given a home cake by Alberto, his wife Kate makes these fantastic Soft fruit cakes, I can not make them. I have already had a large piece.  Now going to have a bath with Epsom salts in.....

swimming

This morning I was pleased with myself as I did 70 length, I only stopped as I though I should, but it did feel good. Cathy was doing 70, so I had to the same. I do love my swimming !!. Mo picked me and took me food shopping, which was good . Quiet evening in.

lunch and hair cut

today I Celia took me for lunch which was great. good company and good food.  She then took me to my hair appointment which has made me feel so much better, Natalie has cut my hair so I do not have to wear the bandana any more, the bald patch may show if the wind blows but I  am now confident enough not to worry if it does show.
Swimming tomorrow 60 lengths I hope.  I have a swim booked with Chris in July and I really want to do it, so hence pushing the swimming.  

Being Open

They say it is harder to be open than not so I thought I write my thoughts down this evening.

It was my Birthday yesterday, I found this very hard to celebrate, thinking is this my last , or the other train of though was I have got this far.
I do find it hard living with this illness at times, knowing that some things you do, it may be the last time. I not an half empty person  and I am determined to live my life to the full, but I do try hard to stay positive and upbeat . I want people remember me as a smiling person , not a full of gloom person. I am also determined  not to sink into depression again.

today has been good, although things did not go to plan. Missed the bus as waiting on the right stop, but pulled into another bay, watched it go past !!My fault for chatting to Cathy.
Walked with Mum and Celia later, good walk. chilling now.

out with Celia tomorrow and a hair cut at the Salon, when I say hair cut, shaping the hair around the bald patch..

Back to swimming

It has been  a busy day today, Richard picked me up at 8.30 to go swimming. I managed 30 lengths  I think, I am rubbish at counting and it felt good, the only reason I stopped was I was feeling sick, even though I had sickness bands on.
I went to out to lunch with Sally and Jack which I really enjoyed, Bertie came too !!
Very tired this evening, so pottering !1

a quiet day

just pottering in the garden today and an evening meal at mum and dad as being tired makes me grumpy  and that is not good. also missing what I used to be able to do....

over done it

In my determination to get fit, I seemed to have over done it.
Today Sophie and I walked Bertie and Poppy(Heather walks Bertie a lot for me )they are easy together as they  play a lot.
then in the afternoon we went duvet shopping for thin duvets, then we done a BBQ I the evening.
Shattered now, easy day tomorrow .

just forgot to blog

I forgot to blog last night.
Yesterday was lovely, a walk at Severn Beach with Richard and Sophie, a cup of tea there.
Sophie and I had a much out then a bit of food shopping. Home to potter and Janet popped over for a cup of tea. Feeling so much better this time round after chemo, but I think it is because I am determined. Moon walk in 2 weeks so have to train and have legs back. I hope to do 13 miles, although signed up for 26, mum Celia and Elaine are doing that , but Sally and I hope to do the 13.

Off dog walking now into the village, still feeling a little sick, so this will try it all out.

baby sitting

I went to Glebe today to baby sit Megan's baby Sera.  I walked her around  the village. then I walked home,while I got a lift up the hill. I also had a chat with Janet. The rest of the afternoon was quiet as I am still feeling very sick.

So determined

Amazingly I went for coffee this morning, then watched Sally, Richard and Gavin start there swim in the lake , then Tesco. But I felt bad after that and I spent the afternoon in bed, but I did   go  out !!!!!not feeling that good now..

watching sally go

This morning I watched Sally, Liz, Ben, Gavin, Kirsty and one more set of on a bike ride to Monmouth, Sally and Liz did the shorter route ,only 55miles!!!!!, the others did the longer route, I admire them all as she said it was hilly ..
I walked the dog with Sophie , Phil and Sarah then went to Adli(love a bargain) for some cheap cycle kit.
Still feeling good I did some gardening this afternoon, but did take it easy.   The sickness is returning and is coming in bouts, ugh . But I am ok.

just taken chemo and I do feel very very sick. it is pants !!!!!

Sailing Club

There was an event at the club today, where other boat from different clubs come to the club to sail.  Sophie and I had were in charge of the food. Alongside Sue we served about 50 bacon sandwiches,  it was very busy. we also done food after, alongside free tea and cake. Thank you to everyone that helped me as at times my head did feel fuzzy, but this is what I love doing and when I  am there it make me feel good as a person. Phil was also there doing results and John also helped with the event, but so many people helped at the event ,it was great. Also plenty of club members made cakes, so thank you !!  John and Sally also came 6th in the racing which was brilliant.
So I am now tired this evening and Sue I am resting now, in bed with a book and laptop and all I am doing tom is hopefully watching Sally and Liz start there 85k Bike ride. fingers crossed I do not feel to sick, but I have Mo sickness watch at hand.

if at parts this blog reads wrong I will blame it on being tired and chemo head as I have read through it twice and still finding errors  .....

coffee with cathy

I caught the bus to Thornbury to meet café for a coffee . we met at the leisure centre where I chatted to Helen which was lovely ,then we popped into Thornbury for a cup of tea. Sally came home this after sitting her final exam and we went shopping for cycling clothes. We also went to the mail in the evening !!!  Very tired, chemo tables now... what joy!

swimming

I swam with Richard today, 50 lengths and it felt easy. A lovely afternoon with Elaine popping in, then a trip to the mail with mum.  Judith also popped in with homemade welsh cakes which I did not share !!! the cake was good too !!Food shopping for the sailing club , then met John at the lake to go to the pub.
Downhill for a bit as just taken anti sickness and I am about to take my chemo, as someone said at swimming, pretend it is liquid gold, I will try..

walking

counselling this morning. A lovely lunch with Janet and a 4 mile walk with Celia and mum. I am now very tired. early night. Chemo starts again tomorrow . a little moan, just checked chemo tablets, I asked to have smaller pills , the doctor requested it...  guest what I got  the large 250 g one that stick in your throat for a while, what joy!!

art today

this morning my usual walk with heather and poppy and Judith and slinky. Then mum came up to  help me sort out the house. Art this afternoon, nervous about going as not been for a while, but I did enjoy. Celia popped in for a catch up which is always good for me.  Having been busy baking for the event at the sailing club on Saturday.  chemo starts Thursday.!!!!

hospital today

This morning I spent doing housework. Thus afternoon we went to the hospital to see if I was ok for the next round of chemo and I am, I am pleased as it is fighting this horrible cancer. I told the consultant today that I always wore my old clothes because if it was bad news I would never have to wear them again. She also told me that I do more exercise than most people!!!!

A chat

today I walked Bertie at the sailing club with Sarah and Sophie. We ended up staying a while as there was loads of people to chat to.. such hard work!!!!.  while chatting to a member who's wife had a cancer made me realise I might need to talk to other people. he said people do not know what to say to you, so to anyone reading the blog that is unsure. here is my guide.
If you took the mikey out of me before, carry on, I will give as good as I get!
Ask me how I am, but do not let me wallow in self pity.
Laugh with me, I am living!!
But if I am on a bad patch help me get out of it, although I may push you away, don't give up on me..
I am trying my best, but unsure how you do live with cancer, I am not brave, but doing the best I can.
Just glad there are people around to pull me up when it is needed..

Back to today. we backed cakes and Mike and Lily(john's parents) came for tea and cake , always good to see them.

doctors and lunch out

Today has been busy, doctors for bloods in Thornbury. then I meet Megan and  baby Sera , which was great, a lovely lunch out and a bit of shopping. When home Poppy came to play with Bertie and a visit to Janet , a enjoyable day ....

Almost a normal day

Started by taking Bertie for a walk with Emma which was good. Then Mo came round and took me out shopping.
This evening I went walking with Mum & Celia nearly 4 miles around Thornbury. That was ok but I wont be able to keep up with their longer walk at the weekend.
Feeling tired now and still very saddle sore from the bike ride at the weekend

meeting friends

today I had a cup of tea at Wyevale garden centre with Sarah, which  I really enjoyed, then mum took me to the mail to meet Sylvia which was great, we also did some shopping as well as having a cup of tea.  Very tired now but I enjoyed the day.
Also added a couple of photos to Sundays Triathlon blog page.

ps
I have written the blog without my glasses on, so if there are any spelling mistakes etc I can not see what I have written and I am too lazy to look for my glasses