The simple things in life....

When you are being forced to be ill - as I am with every dose of chemo & associated drugs - you do very much appreciate being well!
The extra drug given to me to boost the bone marrow, and stop my blood count being so low (and making me extra poorly) - really seems to have done the trick. With my new-found feeling of being 'well' (in your terms - probably just feeling normal!) - 10 days after my last chemo round (where, quite frankly, it's pants), I had a very enjoyable few days.

I had an adventure on a bus on Tuesday. A simple act -  (I must confess - I haven't used a bus for many years...) hopping on a bus - Mum was already on it from her village - and going into town.
I say town - its a very dinky one-high street affair - just perfect for me - hardly any effort involved in walking around. A bite to eat, a giggle, a shock at how much Christmas stuff there is around and a ride back. All for £1.85 return. Bargain!
On Wednesday, I dared to drive. Driving and my particular chemo don't mix at all. It would be the same as driving under the influence of drink/drugs...and I've never done that (I know - BORING - but Dad is a retired senior policeman - remember!). I drove to get my nails done - one of the important things of life...well mine anyway!
I then drove to pick Lily up from school. She was bursting with love and pride, at the sight of me, with my new hair, at school, for her. Such a simple act - and yet so heart-warming. I love her SOooo much.
Thursday was like Clapham Junction at home.
Firstly a lady from the Hospice visited me. She's going to support Lily through play therapy at home. She's a specialist children's counsellor - supporting families with life-threatening illnesses. I hope Lily will benefit greatly from this.
Then my weekly visit from Nurse Gladys Emmanuel to care for my Picc line or Pixie as we call it now - thanks to my American rellies.
Then a surveyor, who came to assess the house for cavity wall/loft insulation. Didn't I mention this? A perk of having cancer - a free government grant for insulation! Whoopee! I do feel mildly embarrassed that I actually qualify for such a luxury (!) - but hey-ho..I've paid my taxes over the years.
Then Mum & Dad. Dad made tea, while Mum ironed. Marvellous.
And finally Friday - I was well enough for a 'Ladies that lunch' with my mate Crocks - yippee. It was alcohol free (makes a change) - but still great fun . And 10 mins Christmas shopping, thrown in - perfect! Cheers mate x

And today.
The sun is shining.
I'm with my gang of three.
I feel well.
And I'm happy...
To be alive...
It's chemo 3 on Friday - bloods permitting.
10 days after that - I'll consider myself at the top of the mountain.
Just three giant steps down again.
I can do this.
I will do this.
You won't beat me.
Loser.