Life's Like A Box Of Chocolates

Good Work From Home.

Posted by juliannah on January 14th, 2012

Written by Sherri Hicks.

There are so many good clear internet service providers it may actually be possible for me to convince my boss that he needs to let me work from home. I know it doesn’t sound like the best idea but for me it’s all about being able to get my work done and be with my kids and since they’re about to go off to school next year I really want to relish the time I have left with them.

I know so many other moms who do this too and I think it’s important to note that most of them have done it really successfully. Outside of starting my own business I can’t imagine another more flexible job than mine so it’s nice for me to remember what it’s like to be in the working world. I don’t want to lose the extra income but I know my husband’s happy I’m going to be home and more accountable for the kids, too, which is reason enough as it is!

The Beast. (But a Nice Beast.)

Posted by juliannah on January 12th, 2012

The other day I was able to see the huge radiation machine used in Grandma M’s treatment. The table she lays on is under a ball shaped apparatus that emits the radiation beam. She tells me that during treatment arms protrude and the ball rotates around her. When the ball returns above her she knows she is almost done and has completed another treatment day.

I hope I am describing this correctly. Technical issues are not my forte as I am right-brained and I was more inclined to notice the orange colors accenting the machine.

During her treatment I wait in a small room where I can see signs that light up while the machine is in use. One says Beam in Use and when the light is on I know she is receiving the radiation. I can also hear a high-pitched sound that one patient affectionately called, “the music.”

I could not find the exact picture of the machine that is used on Grandma M, but I did find a relatively close image.

Technology is truly amazing. My mind can hardly wrap around how someone could figure out how to come up with this treatment. I am glad they did.

Chemo – Our New Friend?

Posted by juliannah on January 10th, 2012

Round one of Grandma M’s chemo started on Monday. She received two chemo drugs, benadryl, a steroid, and fluids. I must admit when I heard the word steroid I was catapulted back to when Butterfly, my granddaughter received steroids during her treatment for leukemia. That girl was a lean, mean eating machine. Not to mention if anything was not to her liking she would turn into the Incredible Hulk. Trust me, I am not exaggerating.

So, the word steroid raised the hairs on the back of my neck. Last thing I want to see is my mother turning green and smashing through hospital walls.

I did not have a chance to speak to the nurses about side effects yesterday as it was the first treatment and the most pressing issue of the day was just getting to the bathroom because of the fluids.

Overall, the day went ok except for the time it took to administer the treatment. We spent about a half an hour in radiation and then another four hours in the chemo room. We were placed close to the nurse station since this was the first treatment and the nurses wanted to keep a close eye on her. Next time we can sit closer to the TV and the restroom.

We once again met up with our newfound friends in the radiation waiting room. One gentleman was receiving his last radiation treatment and will have a port implanted in his chest today. He then will start his chemo. Maybe we will see him and his wife in the chemo room.

I do not wish this on anybody, but what I take from this experience and Butterfly’s fight is truly priceless. The camaraderie and friendship of these people makes my heart take a picture.

January 8, 2011

Posted by juliannah on January 8th, 2012

I do not usually name the town I live in only saying I live in the Desert Southwest. But, if you were reading my blog one year ago today then I am sure you figured out that I live in Tucson.

One year ago today tragedy struck our town. 13 people were shot and injured and 6 were killed. Among them was nine year old Christina Taylor Green. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was shot in the the head and has gone on the make an amazing recovery.

I remember my blog looked more like a twitter feed that day as the news unfolded. We were all glued to the TV listening to the events as they were broad casted.

Tonight Tucson held a candlelight vigil for the victims and survivors of the terrible day. Gabby led the pledge of allegiance with pride and vigor.

Families lit candles in remembrance.

Most importantly, our town has moved forward. Why, because we came together. Tucson may be a small place but it is full of big hearts.

We will never forget.

Butterflies.

Posted by juliannah on January 6th, 2012

When my granddaughter, Butterfly went through treatment for leukemia we all pulled together. It was not an easy time. There was many sleepless nights and grueling days. There was meltdowns over french fries and burrito wars. Tears were commonplace along with some head banging.

Grandma M went to her chemo training today. It brought back many memories for me. Doctors and nurses telling us what to expect. The possible side effects are daunting. However, what I found most profound was the compassionate nature of these medical angels. The same was true with Butterfly. I am happy to find the same today.

The real reason of this post is to clarify why I call my granddaughter Butterfly. First, let me say that Grandma M has worn a gold butterfly necklace for years. When Butterfly was done with her chemo treatments we had a “No More Chemo” party for her. We bought helium balloons to release. I looked for a special balloon to go along and could only find this huge butterfly balloon. I bought the huge butterfly balloon, we attached it to the others, and we released them to the heavens.

This is why I call my granddaughter Butterfly.

A couple of weeks ago my mom, Grandma M asked me to wear her butterfly necklace while she undergoes treatment for her cancer. I had no words at the time. I did have tears. Life is strange sometimes.

I do have something to say about that. At the “No More Chemo, No More Radiation” party, I will return the butterfly necklace to its rightful owner.

Grandma M.

Day One.

Posted by juliannah on January 3rd, 2012

When I first learned about Grandma M’s cancer diagnosis I decided not to write about it. I feared it would invade her privacy. It is hard not to talk about major life changes. As I thought more about it I came to the conclusion that talking about her experience might help someone else. If nothing else I think it will help me deal with the days to come. She has given me permission to tell her story. I hope I do it justice.

We found out this past fall after many doctor visits with different specialists. It came as a bit of a shock, not only to her but the rest of the family. After much thought I am glad to say Grandma M decided to fight.

The fight started today with her first round of radiation. Thirty-two rounds left to go. Every day for six weeks. Thursday we talk to the “chemo doctor” as Grandma M calls him. Today went well and I have positive thoughts about the days to come. The nurses and doctors are caring and compassionate.

I’ve met several people while waiting. Two battling cancer. Another I am not sure. She told me she hates the word cancer.

I. Do. Too.

I saw a very happy man walking out of one office waving his graduation certificate. I used to think my college diploma was cool. Now, not so much.

Once thing is for certain. I do believe we will make a lot of new friends along the way.

Saying Goodbye to 2011.

Posted by juliannah on December 31st, 2011

Goodness how has this year come to an end? I suppose like all the other ones before. I have sat thinking about everything that has come to pass these 365 days. I thought about where I was last year at this time and where I am today. It is eerily the same. However, eerily different.

I moved and moved again. I had help from good friends. I had help from family. I was resistant because of my pride. I relented and swolled that pride.

I once again said goodbye to my oldest son. He left on his adventure to the other side of the world. He is not in combat, but I still miss him. Another birthday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas without him. Still. I am proud.

I rejoiced in my daughter’s year of wedded bliss. I am thankful for my granddaughter’s good health. 10 years in our lives. For that, we are truly blessed. The twin bulldozers turned two. We spent another year missing our Lolly. That will never change.

I said goodbye to two friends. Angelina and Buddy. They lived long happy lives. Yes, they were just pets. They were my pets.

I spent many weeks learning to become the pack leader with Lucie my big, red dog. This is an ongoing task. I am happy to continue the task everyday.

I spent the first months of the year writing about neighborhoods. I then tried my best to write about mounting elk heads. Oh, not so good.

I lost my job. That is all I have to say about that.

My youngest grandson turned one while screaming at the top of his lungs. I some how think this is a view of what is to come.

The end of the year came with Grandma M. Diagnosed with cancer in the fall she (we) are facing a huge fight. We will win. We have won before. Yes, we will.

I am ready for you 2012. Bring it on.

Merry Christmas – Coming Home.

Posted by juliannah on December 24th, 2011

The war on terrorism has been long and tedious. It is not over by a long shot. But for quite a few families, the chance to spend the holidays together is now a reality.

Homecoming is a special event. I’ve lived through the waiting. Still waiting for another. I found this story especially uplifting in this season of joy.

Miss you son. Merry Christmas.

Stocking Stuffers.

Posted by juliannah on December 15th, 2011

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sprint for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

The holidays are a great time to give the gift of a new smart phone. I would love to find one of the Android™ powered EVO 4G devices in my stocking. I am sure I am not the only person out there that would be thrilled with this type of gift.

Right now you can pick up the HTC EVO 4G or EVO Shift for free http://www.bit.ly/rBqHmY, get your activation waived http://www.bit.ly/rBqHmY, and free shipping on new lines of service from Sprint!

Did you hear that Santa?

Smart phones are definitely here to stay and sometimes we wonder how we got along with out them in the past. With features like email, GPS, and music downloads right at your fingertips who can resist?

This deal will only be around for a short time. That means Santa needs to fire up that sleigh and get busy. I am sure the elves will be working overtime to fill the holiday wishes of everyone.

So, there is probably someone on your list just waiting to find one of these great smart phones under the tree. Plus, they are a great way to start the New Year with all the latest apps, music, and technology.

Do not wait because Santa is a busy fellow this time of year.

Sunday Brunch – It’s You Birthday.

Posted by juliannah on December 11th, 2011

D.D. will turn one on Christmas Eve. It is hard to believe a year has gone by and our beautiful, little Christmas present is now a walking, talking sweet toddler. We celebrated his birthday last Saturday with cake, pinata, and presents. We played games such as how many Cheerios fit in his bottle and guess when he reached milestones like sitting, crawling, and walking.

I was a finalist in the milestones but was beat out by his Aunt who correctly guessed his birth weight. I was close but off by a few ounces. What can I say? I have 3 kids and 5 grandchildren. That is a lot of pounds and ounces to remember.

Here are some sweet shots of the day.

Nothing like whacking a pinata. Yep, he is all boy!

He may not have broke the pinata, but he throughly enjoyed that big, red lolly pop.

Cinderella once again did a great job on the cakes and cupcakes.

When it came time to sing Happy Birthday D.D. was not exactly happy with the situation. I mean there is a perfect little cake, topped with a candle and Sissy and Daddy are holding your arms while the rest of the crowd is belting out the song.