Block the Sun

We will be participating in the ACMF Block the Sun 5K on Saturday, all 4 of us are walking! Looking forward to it- love supporting this foundation. Great folks, always fun events.

No-Tanning PROMise

Today was the kickoff of our no-tanning pledge for the upcoming prom. I was disappointed that we didn't have more kids at our sign up table at lunch....maybe tomorrow? We had cool shirts printed up, and many teachers were wearing them. I don't know....it was just disappointing.

But, we put an announcement on for tomorrow, so maybe that will bring more kids to us?

We'll see. 

I'll post photos soon.

Melanoma Know More and My Little High School

Yes, today we met at school about a possible partnership with Melanoma Know More which includes education, awareness, No-Tanning pledges, and more...We are applying for a grant to build a shade structure for our students and community to use. Very exciting stuff! Lots of great ideas were bounced around with those who met today, and I'm looking forward to this, and hoping it works out!

What Was I Thinking???

Remind me next time I register for 3 classes in one term, to NOT DO THAT!!!!

Literally spending every free moment working on (or putting off) multiple assignments. Will be another busy week this week. Crazy busy.

So far I've scored well on all things. Not pleased with a paper I submitted last night, as well as a podcast...hoping that they are good enough. Finally just said, "I'm done, and I'm turning it in and not going to worry about it." Whew.

Big exam this coming Saturday. YIKES!!!  Haven't taken one of those in about 20+ years. It's over 12 chapters from a super boring book on direct reading instruction.

Brrr....baby it's cold in here!

 

Yes, I awoke this morning around 3am and thought, "Man I'm cold..." It just wasn't right. So, I got up, went downstairs, and yes, the thermostat read 65 degrees. So I woke up hubby and he tried to get the furnace going, but no luck.  Thankfully, the repairman was here by noon (down to 50 degrees by then- mind you, it's subzero outside and has been for 2 days) and the blower on the furnace had to be replaced. But, it's done, and we are in business!  Whew!

My beautiful little Christmas cactus has bloomed!! Yea!!!

A few days ago, when it was warmer!!!!

Date Night

So one of the Christmas gifts for hubby was that I promised (in writing!) to secure a date night at least once a month. We have never done this. Yes, I know, I know. We should have. We didn't. So, better late than never??? We have been married almost 17 years. JoJo was born 9 months and 2 days after our wedding, so we've really not had much time without a child in our marriage. The kids are older now and we can go do things for a while without a babysitter, so I thought this would be a cute idea.

Saturday night was our first venture out. We'd been invited to an appreciation type dinner from the Andy Caress Foundation, since we'd volunteered this past year.  We went, had fun, met some people, connected with others because of melanoma. It was fun, great cake (yum!) and good food.  Very odd, though, sitting there. Most of the folks there were family or friends or the family. We did not know Andy, but were connected just through the volunteering. Difficult to sit there, too, two of us with Stage 1 diagnoses; and Andy's gone. He was in his early 20's.  His family is so generous and great to work with. I can only imagine that Andy was just like them. They have raised and donated over $100k to MD Anderson in Houston.    I hope we can continue to work with them for many years to raise awareness for melanoma.    

Happy New Year!

I have read all of the blogs that I follow and most of them that deal with melanoma have summarized the past year and set the tone for a healthy 2014.  I had intentions of posting holiday photos and writing, as I haven't written in quite a while.

A lot has been going on. Today is the last day of Christmas break. Yes, we had a full two weeks off of school (yay!) and have managed to stay very busy! It was nice to stay up late and sleep in, and Monday's alarm will come way too early!  We had great news right as break began- JoJo got the part of Fiona in the spring musical, Shrek: The Musical. So, we are super excited about that.  And, all we've been watching and listening to would be the DVD and the soundtrack. Raye got a bb gun from Santa, and has been out in the back yard practicing her marksmanship...she is pretty good. Of course, the gun is camo, so that makes it that much better...

Fiona ears...the real deal is in April!

Go Cards!!

All the grandkids together...and smiling!

 

 

I have used a great deal of time over break to work on the Master's classes...what a headache that has been. And, I was hoping to get ahead...yeah, not so much. Will try to do more this weekend. It's just a lot to keep up with.

 

Had my 3 month check today with derm. For the first time ever, no cutting! Whew. But, she took a ridiculously long time checking the lymph nodes. Then said that she didn't like the way they felt. The word she used was "grainy." Wants me to follow up with my family doctor if he's "good". I explained that he isn't very pro-active...she didn't like that. So, I called my oncologist and Miriam said that my family doctor would send me there anyhoo, so why don't I just "scoot on over here around 1 today so you don't have to worry about this?" So, Raye and I went on over (we had 2:30 hair appointments, so  had to leave straight from there to make that appt...didn't really want her to have to go with, but she is a trooper). Dr. said he's not real worried about it, nothing really jumps out at him, and my melanoma was a stage one. Not likely that it's in my nodes. But, he then says, "Why don't I just follow you for a while?" Come back in about 4 weeks.  OK.  Geez.

 

 

So, we wait and watch. 

 



Ah...a few minutes to write!

Yes, it's morning, on a weekday, and I'm writing! Unfortunately, JoJo started barfing around 3am this morning, so we are staying home from school. That is a whole other fiasco, as there is no sub for me. That means others have to take my students. No one likes to do this, but we at pitch in when it needs to be done. I'm trying to not worry about it. JoJo has not missed a day in 2 years. She frets about missing and is already worrying about what she is missing. But, it is what it is. Raye decided she didn't want a free day, and wanted to go. So, I drove her over (about a 25 min. drive) and I'll go pick her up later today.  She is too funny.

We have been so busy. Classes wrapped up this past Saturday, so I have a little free time until they begin again in December. Mom and dad's 50th anniversary is this weekend, we are driving north to meet my brother and his family for dinner out. They didn't want a party or gifts, but I managed to write a letter to ask as many friends and family as I could, to send a card this week. I hope that is a nice surprise for them.

 

Nature Trail at school

 



In the melanoma world, I'm trying to decide if I'll do the Thanksgiving Day race downtown. I wouldn't hesitate if it were a 5k. It's a 10k. I've done it before, but just not feeling it right now. The 4 of us originally were going to, but Hubby's knee is hurting and so is Raye's. Not sure if they can last 6 miles. Melanoma Know More has a team, we were going to walk with them. I still can. All my friends have other plans that day. Not sure if I want to walk by myself.

 

Our school may be in the running for a sun shade structure. This would be super-cool. More to follow on that.

 

The man I know from our town, alumni from the school where I teach, has stage 4 melanoma and is under hospice care. So sad. He is about 5 years older than me; has 2 sons. It just doesn't make sense and it's not fair. 

 

Definitely puts things in perspective for the rest of us, huh?

Punt Pass and Kick- 3rd place at Sectional  with mom and Grandpa (dad taking photo!)

Fall Fun!

My 3 Girls

Horsin' Around

Band Buddies...





Weary...

It's been such a crazy couple of weeks, with all the school stuff and kids' activities. We are worn down at the crazy place (aka school) because of politics, low morale, high expectations, ridiculous requirements, and overall over-stressed people.  It's so sad to see such great folks just plain ole worn out.

Had my 3 month check with the derm, and only had to have one mole biopsied, which is good. Also, it's been 3 days and I haven't had a call from them, so that is good.

The temps are set to fall tomorrow, and leaves are turning, so that's good.

It's already dark right now....I don't like that!

Headed downstairs for a glass of wine. 

Proud Mama...

JoJo was elected to Homecoming Court for the sophomore class, so this weekend was a huge deal... in the parade, at the game, and then at the dance last night. Super busy around here, and everyone is exhausted today. However, so proud of my girl- for so many reasons. She is such a good kid, she works hard, she is polite, she had a heart for others, and she always does the right thing.  Here is a picture...

Representing in the band uniform...of course!

And her pretty dress for the dance!

The theme was "Southern Nights", so what more reason do you need to wear your boots with your dress?? Boots were popular last night. Since I teach at JoJo's high school, we always chaperone (have for years) and of course, JoJo does not mind- because she is so awesome! So, we had a busy weekend full of making signs for the parade cars (trucks!), decorating for the dance, hair appointment, etc. She thanked me about 100 times for helping. She is on Student Senate, and they put on the homecoming, so she was involved in several projects. Glad we could help, and just so glad that she is so amazingly sweet, kind hearted, and genuine.

And, of course...here is Raye with JoJo....my girls!!

The 2 of us...19 years into this thing...  xoxo

Busy Weekend...

And so it goes...super busy (just like everyone else) and feeling like I'm too old to be doing all this running around!

Pouring rain at the game Friday, but the band was awesome! They were soaked! One lightning delay of 30 minutes, and then they were out there again!

Saturday was the 5K, which was fun. Scott saw our oncologist, but said he was talking to someone, so he didn't go up to him. I didn't see him, or I would have gone up to him!

Here we are:

Had fun, and was good to be there to support our friend and his family! Got to meet Deanna, my friend's sister, who is also a melanoma girl. They are all on board to come to the melanoma 5k in May through the Andy Caress Foundation!

Last week, JoJo won the groove belt, which is awarded to the band person who "grooves" the best during the performance. Our band is a little unlike others around here, as they are quite "dancy", if you will? Our director went to OU (Ohio University) and apparently, this is how they do it there. Anyhoo, it's a big deal to get the belt...

 

So, very happy about this!

 

Also helping out preparing for a benefit tomorrow at a volleyball game. Proceeds go to the scholarship that is being set up in the name of our school nurse that we lost in July to liver cancer.

Made a Diet Coke themed basket for the silent auction, and making over 100 green ribbons to pin on our shirts in support.

Don't judge my messy kitchen table, I know it's messy! We are working like crazy around here on homework, laundry, a sick doggie, school work, etc. It's crazy! But, glad to be able to do my part. 

Reminded of an old Ozzy Song....

No, I'm not a fan of Ozzy. I am a fan of Sharon, however. Loved her on AGT...Back in the day, Ozzy had a song and the lyrics went something like this:

"I'm going off the rails on a crazy train..."

Yes, my work life is crazy. People have referred to our building as a "train wreck." The situation there is a bit crazy. Morale continues to plummet.

What is one to do?

Overwhelming at times. Then add in all the other normal life stuff and it's becomes very overwhelming. I am so glad, though, that I work with folks with whom I can be honest. Lunch time is a venting time, but bouncing thoughts and ideas off these women is amazing. I am thankful to work with such awesome people.

You have to worry about what you can control. This is hard for me to do. I want to control everything.  And always around the corner is the thought of melanoma. Again, I know I'm in the group of folks with great numbers and great chances. But, you cannot help but think of it. I think of it every day.

I think of it when I stand up and my leg still hurts; when I put on sunscreen and my big hat  to walk across the parking lot to pick up Raye from school; every time I see my scar (read: go to the bathroom or change clothes); and every time one of those shooting pains strikes (several times a day).

It's never far from my thoughts. Yet, I have no control.

I have no control over the crazy train either. But, it's my world from 7am-2:30.

All I can do is try to make my stop, Room 101, be a good stop on the train ride for these kids every day.

Toot, toot!

Cancer is Everywhere...

Today at school, I heard from the Guidance Secretary that the dad of on of our custodians was diagnosed with melanoma. She told him that he just had to come talk to me! I gave him a call when I got home and left a message for him to feel free to contact me.  That initial diagnosis can be so scary.

Saturday, the 4 of us will participate in the Ovarian Cancer Awareness Power Teal 5k here in Cincinnati.

A colleague of mine lost his mom to ovarian cancer last year, and his family is getting a team together. We've been good friends for a while and I really enjoy working with him. His sister is also a melanoma girl. So, there is a connection there. I've not met her, but will meet her on Saturday. I'm looking forward to making a melanoma friend while honoring and remembering women who are fighting the teal beast.

 

Tanning Bed Shut Down

I went for a pedicure and hair color today (I needed the color. The pedi was a splurge!) and when I got to the door of the salon, there was a sign that said:

Tanning beds closing October 1

I talked to my pedi person about it. She is the daughter of the owner of the salon.  She said that new laws and regulations are making it too much of a hassle to keep them. She also said they aren't much of a money maker for them. They are putting massage tables in their place.  We discussed tanning by minors, and she agreed that it should be regulated.

The bad thing is that the owner is taking one bed to her house and another stylist is taking the other to hers. Neither of them can be convinced that they should have their skin checked.

At least one salon here is banning the indoor tan.

Did Someone Say 70 Degrees???

Holy Moly a cold front is approaching! High of 70 tomorrow- whatever will we do? I mean, it's been 95 all week. Geez Louise. Most of us in my building are heat and humidity overloaded, so I'm hoping for some giddy craziness tomorrow! It will be a beautiful night for football...I mean for marching band!  Our band is 100 times better than our football team, so it's the highlight of the night!

Had an interesting experience this week. There is an organization here in Cincinnati called Melanoma Know More. They offer free skin cancer screenings once a month at local hospitals. The hospitals and physicians donate their time/space. It's super cool. So, I copy the dates that are on a nice little flier/flyer (how do you spell that word??) onto bright yellow paper and put them into everyone's mailbox at school with a note saying that there is still time to schedule their free screening this year. I also send it via email with an explanation of why it's so important to me and that I was diagnosed in April. I attach Giada DeLaurentiis' PSA. I love how the email looks and sounds. I send it to the elementary and middle schools, and to the admin office.

Guess how many responses I get? From the entire district?

2

2 people say thank you for sending me this.

I know, I know. 2 is good. I just wanted more people to be interested or to care.

But, I guess if I'd gotten that yellow paper in my mailbox a year ago....would I have said anything?

Causing Quite a Stir...

Well, not really, but generating some questions and odd looks. Yes, that's me wearing my hat around our campus. Yes, that's me applying sunscreen in my classroom before I head outside.

I got to meet a colleague's best friend, who lives in another part of Ohio today. She is a breast cancer survivor. My friend is an cervical cancer survivor. They were talking on the computer (I am still stuck in the 80's...I talk on the phone...) and I could see her face. She was like, why are you wearing a hat? My friend told her I was part of the cancer club...I had melanoma. Ah, she says. OK, I get it now. I'd just come in from a grueling walk with 2 pals. Grueling because it was hot out there on the track, it's black and it was sunny. And it was about 80 degrees. And I was wearing a navy blue shirt. No humidity, though. So, I wear the hat to walk over to Raye's school to pick her up, too.

I've had several people ask- what's with the hat? All you have to say is "melanoma" and everyone's like..."Oh..." then silence. "You wanna see my scar???"  "Uh, no, thanks..."

Chicken....  :)

Just registered today for the Ovarian Cancer awareness 5k here in town in a couple of weeks. Another colleague lost his mom to this disease, and he's put a team together. Yep, I'm in.

Your fight is my fight...  Cancer is a moron.

Days Like Today...

I guess I must have been addicted to tanning, or something like that. Days like today really get me. The sun has been out all day and I still long to be lying in it in the pool. I miss the smell of the tanning oil and the coolness of the pool water while baking in the hot sun. Those memories are my first thoughts always on a sunny day.

Then, the panic sets in.

On days like today I have little anxiety attacks in the car- the sun is coming in on my legs; walking from the car to the building...and there is still that longing to be out in it. I guess because I did it for so many years. I'm even tempted at times to just lay out once. But, I think I'd barf with guilt if I did.

Most people don't understand and have no clue the changes that we have made since melanoma set up shop at our house. 

Heck, I don't even understand it half the time. But, it's just what we do. And we hope that we never see it again.

How do you keep those thoughts away? No hat, shirt, or sunscreen can do that.

Another Website with Lots of Good Info

I keep forgetting to mention that when I met with the gal from the local organization called Melanoma Know More, we talked about all the websites we look at (at which we look, I guess would be more grammatically correct. Sorry...). I had not been to this one, but she mentioned it, and I think it has a TON of great info.  It's the New England Melanoma Foundation.

http://mfne.org/

Speaking of New England... Tim Tebow was cut from the Patriots. I know, I know. He has not been performing. But, he's such a good guy. A stand up guy. Really, I hope another team picks him up. 

It's also Labor Day Weekend. The official "end" of Summer. Ah, the kids in Michigan and Wisconsin have to finally go back to school!  :) Weather here is supposed to cool off next week, which will be such a welcome change to those of us who teach in the un-air-conditioned high school of stress.   Oops, I slipped. I forgot; trying to be positive!

I do try to lift up my coworkers in small ways. I was not a good example yesterday; I was a complainer with the rest of 'em. JoJo made me a flamingo (love love love them!) by paper quilling this past week. I asked her to make a few more animals, which she was glad to do. We then glued them to cutout paper apples, and Raye delivered them to some of my colleagues with a message of, "Have a good week!" They loved them, and it was a quick, easy way to encourage them. We have to that this year, or we'll never make it to May!! :) 

I'm too old for working the concession stand....

Oh. My. Goodness.

Headed out to drop of JoJo at the game. The band reports at 5:30, game isn't until 7:30. We don't live in the district, the kids are open enrolled there because I teach there. So, it's really too far to drive home and then back for the game. So, Raye and I decided to stay and I was sure someone would need some help doing something.

What was I thinking?

They didn't have enough folks signed up to work the concession stand. Sure, I'll help. (I was thinking they would need me for, like, just a little bit...) Uh, no. The whole game. Like, I saw nothing. I heard the band (they sounded great!) but I saw no game, no band. I did, however, see about 900 hotdogs and 450 burgers. And yes, I put them on buns and wrapped them in foil. Raye got drinks out of the coolers and handed them to the customers. Her little arms are so sore today. It was 92 degrees, so I was very thankful to have my visor on. It worked as a sweat catcher in the booth. :) Yikes. I have newfound respect for the folks who do this every week.  It takes so much to make it happen. And yes, I'm signed up for 3 more games.

I think I'll see if I can pay someone to take my shifts. Seriously.

I feel like I've been through the ringer... someone under 40 needs to be doing this! ha ha

We did have to put sunscreen on- yes, people were looking at me like I was weird. Oh well, I guess I'd better get used to that. It's just what we do now.

I'm thinking nap today...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz   :)

It' Friday...

It is Friday. But, it was an in-service day. It was stressful; confusing; slightly unorganized; mildly annoying. Oh, wait. Sorry, I forgot. I'm being positive this year. 

Let me begin again.... We had an in-service today.

See, there. I can do it. I didn't have anything nice to say. So, I'm saying nothing.

In a nutshell, there are new requirements for teachers in our state. However, the details on the requirements are confusing, it's all new, and everyone is pretty much stressed out and freaking out. I saw 2 veteran teachers in tears today. How's that for your Friday of a long weekend?

My parents took the kids to the Y since the students did not have school. Everyone worked out and swam. No sunburn! My kids are so good at this.

The first football game of the season is tonight. That means that the first marching band performance is tonight. That's why we go. JoJo is in the band. I do feel badly for them- it's 92 degrees outside. A tad toasty in the big band uniform.  Report time isn't until 5:30- pre-game at 7:00. So, we shouldn't need sunscreen at the game. But, will still be wearing our hats.

Excited to see them. Go Rockets! Go Marching Rockets!