Family Leaves But Milestone Achieved
I don’t know if I’d say that I completely forgot about cancer over this weekend; after all my drainage system continues to tug at my side reminding me about my newly-realized physical state, but I was pleasantly distracted many times by the weekend’s activities.
Because I’m no longer under the influence of mind-altering drugs (any pain I now feel is relieved with Tylenol), I was given clearance to drive again, so I was able to chauffeur Mom and Dad out to the airport on Friday to pick up Kelly. All went well behind the wheel, but after driving to and from IAH, I was happy to relinquish the wheel to Kelly because my stamina isn’t entirely back to what it used to be. Plus, I wanted to conserve energy so I’d be able to stay “in the moment” as much as possible knowing that our time together as a family was limited. (Mom and Dad headed back to Wisconsin on Sunday, and Kelly is leaving for Michigan at noon today.)
I love having family near, so it really didn’t matter what we were doing throughout the weekend. The air around us was constantly filled with energy, chatter and lots of laughter. Added bonus of us being together was that we celebrated Mom’s birthday on Saturday! Great weather, delicious lunch and great company...
Kelly and I took Mom and Dad out to the airport on Sunday. With a slight adjustment to their travel plans - flight to Minneapolis was cancelled, so they were rerouted to Detroit - they made their way back to Wisconsin after being here for almost a month. It will feel strange that I won’t find Dad at the computer when I start moving around in the morning or that I won’t see him plowing through yet another book that’s grabbed his attention. I’ll also have to get used to Mom’s absence on the patio and in our yard during the day and seeing her reading or knitting when I head to bed in the evening.
I suppose that their return to Wisconsin – as hard as it was to see them go - can be viewed in a positive light. They were not going to head back up north until I was finished with the flurry of doctor’s appointments, and I was strong enough to move about with relative ease.
Kelly was able to stay until today which gave us a little sister-bonding time. We did things that only sisters (at least sisters like Kelly and me) enjoy... reorganizing our kitchen cupboards, cleaning the house, watching mindless television, eating Oreos and napping afterwards. Kelly also decided that she’d figure out when my drain tube would be removed by plotting a trend line on her computer. I wonder if this was prompted by my obvious frustration coupled with winces each time my tube tugged and bit at my skin??? By her calculations, I should be looking at May 2nd or 3rd as my removal date. I remain hopeful that the trend line is correct.
After Kelly leaves today, I’ll return to an empty house. Although Nat would return from work in a heartbeat if I made the call, I’m interested to see what it will feel like for me to be alone. For the last few weeks, I’ve always had someone with me – and for good reason. But given that I’m pretty steady on my feet – both physically and emotionally, I think I’ll be just fine. Lots of love, Lisa
-MESSAGES-
Hi Lisa It's good to hear that you are achieving a greater level of autonomy, but just remember that you don't have to do this thing (or anything) by yourself - if it's your choice to do certain things by yourself that's great, but remember that you have a lot of people that love you that are only a phone call away! Keep up the good work - we'll see you soon.
Isn't family grand?! I read your e-mail today and I'm so glad you got to spend time with your family this weekend. Like you, my family is far away (Michigan, Wisconsin & New Jersey) and while C's family is here, it's not the same as being with your own parents and sisters! Maybe it's because they know all your faults, have seen you at your best and worst and still love you unconditionally. I'm leaving this weekend for a brief get together with my family and I'm sure there will be lots of love, laughter, food and maybe even a glass of wine (or two - we are Irish!). Just remember, you have another big "adopted family" here in Houston and we love you too! Love, M.
short and sweet! Sorry this must be short; we are having quite a storm out there so I need to shut down my computer. I just wanted to say hello and send well wishes and HUGS, too, since your family is gone. What wonderful supporters you have! I'm sure you'll feel their strength from far away.
Well, the thunder is a reminder to go!! Have a great evening...will write more tomorrow! XOXO, M.
Back to work Today was my first day back to work, and I had a great time. I missed knowing that you were over at Goodson ready to answer any questions I might have as I go through the mountains of "end of year" to-do's that are calling my name. I look forward to you heading back to work soon, too.
It is hard to believe that this school year is coming to a close. It seems like yesterday trying to scramble through the first few days of professional development. And yet, we are starting to think in that direction again. Have a terrific day! C. A.
Thinking about you Lisa, I have imagined you skipping across the beach in your wedding dress. My youngest got engaged this past weekend in NYC. Perhaps I should suggest a beach this time. After all, we've had the rain and ice version. I want you to know that I'm thinking about you and praying that drain tube does come out this week! Talk with you soon. S.