Spring has sprung in Atlanta and in me!

It’s another beautiful day in the neighborhood! Hallelujah that I talked to the nurses yesterday and the blood cultures are negative after 24 hours. They will let them grow for a few more days but usually most of the things to worry about show up within 24 hours. Yay! I got to spend last night at home instead of at Emory.

I am spending my days taking morning and evening blood pressure and temperature readings, as well as taking morning, mid-day and evening medications which are adjusting all the time. I am starting a mild excersise routine, walking Watson, enjoying hearing the song birds and watching them eat at the feeder. Reorganizing the house and putting things away after the mold remediation. Reading emails and texts to keep up with work and friends. Taking lots of naps. Reading lots of inspiration from all of you, enjoying all of the healing thoughts and prayers and saying a lot of prayers of gratefulness every-time someone pops in my mind. I am giving my new blood a chance to heal me once and for all. Patience.

I am still not allowed to drive so Mom and Sheri take me on short field trips. I still wear a mask when I’m going to be in a crowded place or at the clinic. It’s important for me to wash my hands constantly and not put my hands to my eyes or nose. Easy to do until you know you are not supposed to do it! Ha! I take nausea medicine around the clock whether I feel nauseous or not to prevent! I think my insides are still irritated from the strong chemo I have taken. I can’t seem to drink enough water. They want me to drink a minimum of 1/2 gallon per day. I still find myself needing fluids every week to protect my kidneys. I have had a few signs of Grafts vs host disease in the form of rashes here and there, but fortunately, it has been mild so far. I’m looking for some wood right now to knock on. 🙂

I’ve had a real lack of appetite and most things taste differently than before but I force myself to eat and try to think of things I used to like! I have maintained my weight for the most part. Since my potassium has been a bit high, I’ve been avoiding avacados, bananas, spinach, potatoes and other foods high in potassium.

Overall, I am enjoying being home and taking it easy… one day at a time. Yesterday was a good day and today looks to be one as well! I am blessed! “Hope” is that beautiful place between the way things were and the way things are yet to be:)

Every morning lean your arms awhile

upon the windowsill of heaven

and gaze upon the Lord.

Then with the vision in your heart,

turn strong to meet your day.