Saturday October 31

Happy Halloween!  

Yesterday was a lazy day.  I haven't been feeling very well.  I have no energy and feel really drained.   I can't seem to kick it.

This morning we went to the strip district and walked around.   It took a lot out of me.   I haven't been able to do anything since.   I'm laying on the couch watching naked and afraid.   

I may try to get the energy to go get the mail.   It's just a crappy day for me.  

I hope I feel better tomorrow.  Try to have a good night.   I'm going to head to bed soon.

Thursday October 29

Thursday was an ok day.   I wasn't feeling too well and I'm not sure why.   I kind of felt like I was in a fog and couldn't clear my head.  

In the morning Colin and I went shopping because he needed a new coat.  We found the REI store in Pittsburgh which was pretty cool.   There were some other stores in the shopping center so we walked around for a little bit.  We ended up stopping and shopping closer to home.

After we got home I put on an extra fluid to see if it would help me feel better then I laid down and took a small cat nap.   It helped and we started to get ready for the game.   Someone I knew in high school sent us tickets to the Pitt game last night.   

We had a lot of fun at the game.    Thank you to Lauren who was kind enough to send the tickets and let us experience Heinz Field.   The game was pretty good.   We left after the third quarter so that I could get home and get my tpn on for the night.  

We will see what adventures today brings :).  I am at clinic waiting to speak to the psych doctor for clearance (hopefully) to get me listed.   I will post more later.

Wednesday October 28

Tuesday was a great day in clinic.   My liver enzymes are up again so the doctors are adjusting my tpn and taking the lipids out temporarily.  They are pleased with everything else and if I stay on track they might activate me on the list next week!   I have an appointment Friday to meet with the psych doctor to hopefully get the final clearance.   

Wednesday was a rainy mess of a day.  We watched a movie and then decided to go check out the actual movie theatre.   The theatre here is huge!   It was kind of crazy.  We were there for an early showing of the Intern.   It was a cute movie.   Worth seeing.  After the movie we just came home and chilled out.   I face timed with Amber and the twins for a little bit.  Then I put on my medicine and went to bed.   I have been waking up at 2am and can't get back to sleep.  I'm going to talk to the doctor about it tomorrow.  

Today we have a busy day planned.   We are going to the Rei store that we found in Pittsburgh.  We are going to try going for a bike ride and we have tickets to go to the Pitt game tonight.   Should be a pretty jam packed day.   I'm going to have to keep up with my fluids today and get my tpn ready so that I am able to get through the day.   

I will post more later.   Sorry I've been slacking again. I'm really going to try and be better about posting daily.   Have a good day!

Monday October 26

We left bright and early this morning to head back to Pittsburgh.  We were home by 12:30.   I am exhausted from not sleeping last night.  I've been up since 2.  I wasn't able to nap in the car.  I have my fluids running now and am hoping to possibly take a small cat nap.  We have to be at the hospital at 7 am tomorrow for an appointment.  I'm hoping I can get to bed early tonight and actually get some sleep.  We shall see.  Wish me luck.  Have a good night!

Sunday October 25

Sunday was a day for visiting.   Amber came over with the boys to carve pumpkins.  We had a lot of fun.   They did a really good job carving them on their own. In the afternoon I went over to Sean and Jamie's to see Aubrey for a little bit.  After that I went to see Jody and Kenny.  I went back to Mom's and took a little nap.   When Mom woke up we decided to go to dinner.  We went to Friendlys with Shawn and Courtney.  I treated myself to a tiny kids milkshake.   The Sonic commercial had me craving them.  We went back to the house and Amber and Bobby came back to say goodbye.   I put my pjs on and was in bed by 8.  Too bad I didn't sleep well at all.  I have been up since 2 am.  Maybe a nap is in my future.  We shall see.

Saturday October 24

Spent the day today shopping with my mom.  None of my clothes fit me.  I've lost close to 20 lbs.  She bought me new jeans and a couple of sweaters.  After we got back from shopping I put on my fluids and Dad and I watched a movie.   San Andreas.  It was pretty good.  

Now I'm going to go to Shawn's to hang out for a little bit.   Tomorrow I'm going to have to go to Cyndee's to get the odds and ends that we need to pack up and bring back to Pittsburgh with us.  I have a list and hope I don't forget anything.   

That's pretty much my excitement for the day.  Until tomorrow.   Have a good night. 

Friday October 23

We made it home for the weekend!!!   It's so nice being home.  

I had a dentist appointment yesterday because I lost a filling in my tooth.   Dr. Matos fixed me up right away.  After my dentist appointment I went back to Mom's and hung my fluids for the day.  Amber brought the twins over and we hung out for a little bit.  

We met up with Colin and took the dogs for a hike.  They needed some energy run off them and Carter and Caden did too.  The twins were monkeys on the rock wall.  They were climbing like champs!   

They didn't want to leave.  

When we were done with the hike I went with Amber to the dollar store.  She dropped me back off at the house and I decided to run to Diesel Works to see Jamie.   I stopped and hung out with her and Lizzie for about an hour.  Lizzie is getting so big already.  She's a real cutie pie.   I missed Aubrey.   She was at her grandparents.  I'm going to try and catch up with them again while I'm home because I miss my buddy.  

Isn't she adorable??   I just want to kiss her chubby cheeks all day!!!

After my visit with Jamie I met up with Colin.  We made plans for dinner with Cyndee, Brooke, David and the kids.   We went to Aroogas in Centerville.  I of course didn't eat but we had a nice dinner and had a lot of fun catching up.  I got back to Mom's around 9.  Put my medicine on and went to bed.  

Today is a new day.  I'm not sure of my plans just yet but I will try to stop slacking and remember to update. Have a good day!!!

Wednesday October 20

Sorry for the lack of posts recently.  I've really been slacking.  

Tuesday we were in the clinic all day.  I have a standing appointment on Tuesdays at 7:00.   They take my blood work and monitor me.   If I need fluids, meds, etc they give them to me while I'm there.  It's a pretty efficient system they have.  This week I was extra dry so they gave me additional fluids on top of what I usually take.   They also had a hard time getting blood from my PICC line.  They had to put a special medicine in my line and let it sit for a couple of hours to loosen things up.  Luckily it worked and they were able to do all the testing they needed.   After we got home from the clinic we went for a bike ride.   It was a little chilly but a nice evening.   We also found out that there is a bike garage in the complex so we don't have to keep our bikes in the apartment.  There's a secure key pad and its shares with about 10 other tenants.  

I went the whole bike ride without falling off my bike!!  I have been wearing my helmet too.   The last thing I need is to hurt myself.  I'm enjoying the exercise and so is Colin.   It's nice because it gives us something to do.  

Yesterday (Wednesday) was an ok day.  I wasn't feeling very well.  I was really tired and feeling like I needed extra fluids.   I put on two bags and felt a little better.  I just couldn't catch up on how dry I was feeling.  In the afternoon we decided to go for a drive. We found this beautiful lookout over the city called Mount Washington.   It was gorgeous!   You could see the whole city and all the stadiums.  

Isn't it beautiful!!   

We stopped and grabbed lunch on the way back to the house.  Colin got home and napped.  I put on my medicine and did some laundry.   We had a pretty uneventful evening.   Just watched tv and chilled out.  I needed the rest.  

Today we are waiting to hear if we are allowed to go home for a visit.  I'm nervous they are going to tell us we can't go.  I have a dentist appointment in the morning because I lost a filling in my tooth.  Colin really wants to bring the bikes home with us so he can ride and take the dogs along.  We are trying to figure out what the best way of accomplishing the task of transporting them and the best way to do it.  Should be interesting!   I'll post more later.  Have a good day!

Monday October 19

Sunday afternoon was pretty uneventful.  It was a lazy day of laying around and recuperating from company even though I miss them already.  Not too much to report for Sunday.

Monday was a good day.   We woke up early and decided to go look for bicycles.  There is so much to do on a bike around here and it would be nice to have them to get around without driving a car everywhere.  We stopped in to a couple of shops and priced around.  Eventually we found a bike shop having awesome deals and decided to make a purchase.  We went for a bike ride when we got home.  I think it will be good exercise for me and for Colin as well.  I just wish the weather was a little warmer.  It was pretty chilly riding yesterday.  I haven't ridden a bike in a while so it was touch and go for a little bit, but I only fell off twice and I was able to avoid hitting anyone.  The most damage I did was to a bush that I somehow fell into.  I think the biking is going to be a good outlet for us.  I'm excited to ride again today.

My surprise for the day....there was a note in our mailbox that I had a package in the office.  I went and picked it up and it was a huge box.  I took it upstairs and opened it.  It was a care package full of goodies!   It really made my day.  There were candles, nightlights, nail polishes, lip gloss, fuzzy socks, comfy pajama bottoms, a book on how to make your own wreaths, an anchor notebook to keep me grounded, a box to write my daily prayers in, magazines, word search puzzles, 2 Dudes Painting sweatshirts (so excited about wearing this because it's freezing here!), lotions and so much more.  Three beautiful young ladies sent the package - Brynn, Lisa and Sam.  I can't thank them enough.  Things like that make it a little easier to get through the days and keep me from being homesick. 

I have been overwhelmed by the support of everyone around me.  All my friends and family have really gone above and beyond to make sure that I am as comfortable and happy as possible.  I have no words to express my gratitude.

It's now Tuesday morning, I missed my entry yesterday with all the excitement.  I'm sitting in clinic waiting to get a chest x-ray because my PICC line isn't giving blood return.  They are going to make sure it's still in the right place and hasn't slipped at all.   As long as it's in the right place they can put a medicine in it to help open up the vein and hopefully it will start working properly again. 

I will try to update later today.  Have a good day!!! 

Saturday October 17

Saturday was a really nice day.   Amber and Bobby came with the twins on Friday evening after work.  Colin woke up bright and early Saturday and made breakfast for everyone.   He made French toast, fresh fruit, bacon and sausage.   Everyone filled up on breakfast and then we decided to go to the Pittsburgh Zoo.  Colin wasn't into the zoo scene so he stayed behind and cleaned up the house, etc.

When we arrived at the zoo, we were pleasantly surprised that it was Trick-Or-Treat.  They gave the boys a bag for candy and we were off.  (unfortunately we were some of the only people not dressed up because we didn't know, but people didn't seem to mind too much).  The Pittsburgh Zoo is really nice. There's a lot to see and a lot of walking but I managed ok.  Throughout the zoo they had motorized scooter/wheelchair rentals.   There was some temptations at points, but I stuck it out and just rested when necessary. 

There were a couple places in the zoo where you could interact with the animals which was different.  At one point, we had two doe walking up to us and we were able to pet them.  One of them decided to try eating my coat.  The boys thought it was hilarious.  There was another part where the kangaroos were loose and  you were walking through, none of them came up to us but it was really neat to be in the same pen and watch them interact with each other.  They were adorable. 

There was a part where you could ride on the elephant, we decided against that.  The boys loved the rhino but she was really hard to see and kept hiding.  They also enjoyed the sea otters.  There were two otters who were playing in the water.  We could have watched them all day.  It was like they were wrestling. 

After the zoo and collecting candy we headed back home so I could put my fluids on and chill out for a little before the evening.  We stopped and grabbed fast food for lunch and went home.  We rented a redbox movie and Amber, Carter, Caden and I chilled out and watched the movie while Colin and Bobby went to visit some breweries throughout the area.  After my fluids were done and the movie was over Amber wanted to do a little shopping to see about getting some stuff for their new house.  We went over to the Macy's and stopped at Target, TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Bed Bath and Beyond.  She purchased elephants knick knacks to put on her shelf when you walk into the living room.  There is meaning of wisdom behind the elephants and a whole story behind them.  They boys picked them out and named them.  Melly is the female and Telly (I think) was the male.  They like to name things like that.  She was super excited about her find.

After shopping, we met up with Colin and Bobby at Dave and Buster's.  The boys had an absolute blast.  They ate dinner and played games for hours.  They kept thanking us and telling us that it was the best restaurant ever and they want to come back every Saturday.  I don't think that's going to happen but I'm glad that they got to experience it.  We had a lot of fun.  We got home around 9:30 last night and went straight to bed. 

This morning Colin woke up early again and made breakfast.  This time he made pancakes and bacon.  He also made homemade whipped cream which was delicious!  He put it on the blackberries and strawberries.  Breakfast once again looked amazing.  After breakfast we went for a quick walk and then they packed up and left.  It was nice having them here and I'm going to miss them.  Hopefully we will see them next week if I can get permission to be allowed to travel back home for the weekend.  I need to pack more clothes and have a list of some things that we don't have here but we need.  I also didn't really get to say proper goodbyes to anyone, so I'd like to catch up with a couple of people.  If they list me this week, we aren't going to be allowed to make the trip. 

I miss my puppies so I'm planning on spending a lot of time with them.  On another note.....I hung my new piece of artwork I scored at Big Lots for $12 on the wall in the apartment above the futon.  We moved the sign Dad made so that it hangs down as soon as you walk in the living room.   Amber and I were going back and forth on where to put it and we think it looks best there.   You can see it as soon as you walk through the hallway and it will be a constant reminder that I have the strength to do this.  The apartment is definitely coming together.  It's really starting to feel like home. 

Well....I'm getting a little tired so I'm going to go and take a nap (possibly).  I will update later today.  I'm not anticipating an eventful day.  

Have a good afternoon!

Friday October 16

This morning we woke up bright and early and decided to walk to Panera so Colin could get some breakfast.   It was a nice walk.   We found the end of the trail behind the house takes you to a walking bridge where all of the outlets are.  It's a pretty good distance but it was well worth it.  

I sat down this afternoon and started banging out thank you cards.  I have so many I want to send out.  I worked on it for a couple of hours.   

We spent the afternoon cleaning up the house.  This evening we took the truck to the car wash and we went to Big Lots and bought a piece of artwork to hang on the wall above the futon.   It looks really nice.   We are going to move the plaque Dad made me to the bedroom so I can see it every night as a reminder.  

Right now we are just hanging out and watching tv.  I may attempt to tackle some more thank you cards.  I have about 30 left to do.  My hands are cramping from doing so many today.  For now.....I'm just going to chill in my pjs until bed time!   I will update more tomorrow.  Have a good night. 

Thursday October 15

I fell asleep last night before I could post anything.  We had a fairly busy day and I was exhausted.

In the morning we went into Pittsburgh to their flea market downtown.   There really wasn't too much there.  We are so used to Roots, Central Market and New Castle's market that it didn't compare.   We left there and went back to the strip district where we were the other day.  

We walked through most of the stores to see what they are about.  We got some fresh bread so Colin can make breakfast for Amber, Bobby and the twins when they come.  He seems excited for their visit.  I know I am!  I miss them so much!!!

We got home and I put on my fluids and ran my new medicine in through my Iv.  We chilled out a little bit and then decided to go for a walk.  We walked over to the grocery store to rent a movie.  Unfortunately when we got the movie home it must have scratches or something because it freezes throughout.   I'm not having much luck with movies these days apparently.  

The evening was pretty boring.  Just watched tv and went to bed.  Not too much new to report.  I'm up bright and early this morning.  I'm going to take off my tpn and then I think we are going to walk to Panera to get bagels.  Should be a good day.  

I will post more later.  Have a good day!

Wednesday October 14

Today was an ok day.  I was up and showered bright and early.  We had to run a few errands this morning.  We found a fed ex and shipped my old Iv pumps back. I also wanted to buy a backpack for when I need a bag but can't bear to carry around my huge purse.  They happened to have backpacks on clearance at the fed ex store we went to.  I scored a cute teal backpack for $17.   It was originally 70.   So that was a nice surprise.  

I had a package delivered to the leasing office today.  It was this beautiful bracelet from Amanda, James, Georgette and Butch.  It's gorgeous.  I'm super excited to wear it every day.  

Isn't it pretty!!!  

We also had a visit from the nurse today.  She showed us how to hang my new medicine.  I'll be on it for about a week.  I have had a sore throat which we found out was thrush.  The med is supposed to help clear it up in a week.   It's no wonder my tastebuds seemed off.  So far the medicine seems to be working.  

After the nurse left we decided to go on a field trip to Whole Foods.   Definitely an interesting place.  I've never been to whole foods before but it was good to walk through and experience it.  They have a lot of different things.  We didn't buy much because of the prices.  Everything is about 3x the price of the regular store.  We bought sausage and bacon for when we have company this weekend.  The meat counter had the best looking meats.  We left there and went to Giant Eagle. Much more my speed.  

After the store we watched a movie.  Furious 7.  The movie was ok.  I like the older ones better.   My DVD player is cooperating again so that's a good thing.  

I'm feeling a little sick this evening.  I gave myself an extra bag of fluids.  Hopefully that helps.  For now I'm hoping to catch a break.   I'm falling asleep so until tomorrow.   Sweet Dreams.  

Tuesday October 13

We got up bright and early this morning to my now weekly appointment at clinic.   We had to be here at 7 this morning.  They are very happy with my progress so far.   I can't believe that I have been able to maintain myself and my output and have been home for a full 7 days hospital free!!!   It's exciting news!

I have thrush due to the steroids so they are going to put me on medicine to help with that.   They are adding a couple of other medications to my regimen that should help keep me "healthy".  They are also adding additional fluids to my daily routine in case I need them.  

I'm not allowed to take anything in by mouth.   They want me to do sips only and no solid foods at all.  I have been feeling so well that I am actually craving foods.   I have to be good and not let the cravings get the best of me.  It will keep me on the upswing so I'll be healthy enough for the transplant.   Overall it's a pretty good day so far.  I'm extremely happy with the outcome of my appointment.   

We check back in with them next Tuesday and see what progress has been made and they will decide the next step from there.   Overall today is a good day!!

Monday October 12

Today was a good day.  We woke up bright and early.  We cleaned the apartment.   Got showered and dressed and then went to "The Strip District".  It's a bunch of stores and specialty markets in Pittsburgh.  It was pretty cool.   It reminded me of the shoppes in the Keys or even boardwalk type stores.   Jimmy met up with us and brought his little girl Violet.   Violet is adorable and sweet.   It was finally nice to meet her.   I can't wait to meet their son and Jimmy's wife Sarah.  It makes us feel better knowing that they are here if we need anything in an emergency.  

We walked around for about 2 hours.   I bought two tshirts and Colin got some bracelets and some fresh bread from one of the bakeries.  The guys had lunch at a really cool taco stand.  It looked amazing.  Too bad I still can't eat.  

We are back home now watching re-runs of Gas Monkey.  I think we are in for the evening.  We were going to watch a movie but it appears the DVD player ate the redbox movie.  We can't get it to play or open the door.   I'm giving it a little rest. I'd hate to break the DVD player to get it out of there but that might be the outcome.   Now we can't watch movies.  It sucks.  I will keep you posted on the current minor dilemma.  Hopefully it works out in my favor.   Well...until next time.   Have a good night.

Sunday October 11

It was a good weekend.   Mom and Dad came to visit with Shawn and Courtney.  We did some shopping, started another puzzle and did some sight seeing.  We spent yesterday afternoon at the Andy Warhol museum.  He was definitely an interesting fellow.   We learned a lot.   He has some amazing art pieces.   

M

Some sneak peeks at his art.  Cameras were forbidden. We were amazed at a lot of the pieces.  He lived an interesting lifestyle.   Especially for his time.  We spent a few hours there.   It was an interesting day but we had a good time.   After the museum, we came back to the house so that I could put on my fluids.   While I was doing my fluids Shawn and Courtney ran out and did some errands and a little shopping.  Mom and Dad stayed with me.   We took a nap and chilled out until my fluids were done.   Once my fluids were done, Dad and I took a walk to see what was going on on the river.   We saw a couple of speed boats and a huge barge.   

It was gorgeous weather and a really nice day.  We walked about 1/4 mile and then went back to the apartment.  When we got back we decided to go to dinner.  I took them to The Butgatory (where our friend Jimmy works).   I introduced him to my family and they exchanged information in case of an emergency.   We had a nice dinner and everyone was happy with their food.   After dinner we did some light shopping at the outlet mall.  I went into my first Charming Charlie's.   Adorable store!!!   It was pretty inexpensive and they have so much stuff.   You could spend hours in there to get through everything they had.  Then we went BACK to Target.  I got another shelving unit for inside the door.  I wasn't happy with how short the original one was so I bought a second one and attached it on top.  Shawn helped me put it all together.   It looks really nice.  After that it was bed time so I said goodnight and went to bed.  Everyone was exhausted but seemed to enjoy their day.  

This morning I was up bright and early.  Everyone was up and ready to head home.  They were all out of here by 8:30 this morning.   Colin was headed home early as well.   He ended up getting home around 11.  We are just sitting here and chilling out for the afternoon/evening.  We both had an eventful weekend and are beat.  I will touch base again tomorrow.  I hope you had as good of a weekend as I have.   Until then....

Friday October 10

Today was a decent day.  Colin was up bright and early and we straightened up the apartment.  We got him packed and set up to go home.  He was excited for the break.

In the meantime, I had gone to Target and bought the shelving unit we wanted.  I left the house and it was gorgeous outside.   As soon as I hit the register it started torrentially down pouring.  It was crazy.  I got the unit into the house ok.  I ended up getting a piece on clearance for 20.00 because it had a broken corner.  I was able to hide the broken piece for the most part.  Now i think I may go back and get another piece to stack on top to make it look a bit bulkier.   It's still looking like it needs a little more substance to it.  I'm not 100% sure.  Maybe it will grow on me as it is.  You never know.  

You be the judge.  After that excursion I ran to the grocery store and got a mum and pumpkin to make the porch a little more homey.  It looks nice.  

The evening was pretty uneventful.  I had to change my bag because it sprung a leak.  You know how much I love it when that happens.  And that was my Friday.  I hope you had a good day today.  I will touch base again tomorrow.  Until then....goodnight!

Thursday October 8

Today was a good day so far.  I did some laundry this morning.  Colin and I were bored so we went to check out IKEA.  It's only about 10 minutes from where we live.   It was a nice little field trip. 

There was also a mall close by so we walked around for a little bit.  While we were out I decided to get something new to do besides that puzzle.   The puzzle was driving me nuts.   We returned the Redbox movie and stopped in at Michaels.  I picked a new hopefully easier puzzle and a paint by number set for something to do.  

After our errands we came home, I put my fluids on and we chilled out for a little bit.  Around dinner we ran over to Dave and Busters to check it out for when company comes.  It was dead.   There was absolutely no one in there.  Colin grabbed some food and we came back home.  It was an eventful day but we really didn't accomplish much.  If that makes sense.  

Now I'm laying in my pjs watching tv and getting ready for bed.  Hopefully tomorrow will be a good day as well.  Until then!   Goodnight!

Saturday September 26

Lots and lots of company today.  Colin was here bright and early to get me up out of bed and into the shower.  A few hours later Kelly and Matt came to say their goodbyes with Thomas.  After they left Amber and Bobby came with the twins to hang out and get some packing lists finalized.  They left to meet Colin at the house and go through everything.  

Then Shawn came for a few hours.  He diligently worked on the puzzle for a few hours.  He left.  Then Mehgan came.   It was nice to catch up just the two of us.  We have a lot going on in our lives and need to make sure we are making the time we need for each other.   She was here for a couple of hours but left to head home and let out the pup.  As soon as she left, Shawn and Courtney came back.   These two are determined puzzle fools!!!   

That's all for tonight.   Thanks for the visits and the outpouring of support and love! 

Wednesday October 7

Today is Wednesday.  I woke up feeling pretty good this morning.  I ran a couple of errands with Colin.  I'm bored out of my mind.  I tried working on that M.C. Escher puzzle again to see if I could pas the time, but all it did was frustrate me. I don't even have one full side done.  It's a little frustrating but what can I do.  I am determined to complete that puzzle no matter what.  I think I may try a new approach and start with the inside and work my way out.  The borders on it are just 100 different shades of gray.

On another note.  We went to the Redbox today and got some movies.   We watched Get Hard.  I worked on the puzzle the majority of the time, I wasn't really too into the movie.  We also rented The Longest Ride which I'm hoping Colin will let me put in soon so I can watch it without having to keep the movies longer.  The Redbox is right across the street at the grocery store.   There are so many stores right across the street it's awesome.   Shopping could become an issue.  There's a Target, Bed Bath and Beyond, Macys, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Giant Eagle, DSW, and a whole strip of outlet malls. It reminds me of the malls at Rehoboth Beach.  They are cute outdoor outlet malls. There are more restaurants than you can imagine too.  There's a Dave and Busters, Burgatory, Red Robin, Steak and Shake, Chick Fil A, McDonalds, Wendy and so many more.  There's even an Ihop close by which will surely make Mom and Dad happy.   We love IHop!

I'm feeling a little better today than yesterday.  I'm not in as much of a fog as I have been.   That was a really weird feeling.  It was almost as if I was in an out of the body experience.  Nothing seemed real.  Now I hope that I can stay on this track to feeling better.  Mary emailed today and said she is going to try and get us hooked up with a therapist to finalize my being listed.  She is going to get back to me this week and let me know.  Once that last hurdle is complete and as long as I can stay "healthy" and not have vomiting fits, we should be good to go on the list.  Then hopefully we will have the transplant in no time at all.

It's getting close to dinner time, I am home so I'm hoping to make Colin dinner so he doesn't have to eat fast food anymore.  I'm sure it's getting old.  Well....I'm going to get up and look for something to make for dinner tonight.  I will update tomorrow.  Until then, have a good night.  XOXO

Tuesday October 6

Pretty uneventful day today.   Met my new home nurse.   She seems pretty good.   She explained my new meds to us and how to administer them.  It's a lot of work but hopefully it will all be worth it.  

We went to our friend Jimmy's restaurant The Burgatory so Colin could grab something for dinner.  It was nice to finally see Jimmy after all the help he has given to us with looking for an apartment etc.  he was a huge help in finding us a safe place to live.

It's after dinner and I'm just sitting here watching tv.  I'm bored but trying to make the best out of my situation.  Colin is going to probably go home this weekend  so he can grab a couple of the things we missed or forgot.  Maybe I'll be feeling well enough to head to Altoona for a visit.  We will have to see how I'm feeling.   Grand plans in my future ;). 

Well...I'm rambling.   Time to get changed and ready for bed.  Goodnight.

Monday October 5

I was discharged from the hospital this morning.  The doctors want me to try and manage at home.  So far everything is going ok.  I'm feeling like I'm in a fog.  

Colin and I are currently waiting for my tpn delivery.  They are changing that all around as well.  Hopefully I'll do ok with the new formula they are mixing.  I'm really exhausted so this post is going to be short and sweet.   I'll update tomorrow.   Sweet dreams.

Sunday October 4

Today was a lot better.   The pain has gotten better and so has the nausea and vomiting for the most part.  

I had a nice surprise visit from my friend Nicole and her husband Mike.  She was in Pittsburgh for a game and had some time to stop at the hospital and visit.  It was nice to see them and break up my day a little bit.  Thank you for stopping and for all the support.   It's always nice to see new faces and break up the monotony.  I appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to go out of your way to come for a visit.  

I'm getting bored fairly quickly today.  Nothing is keeping me content.  I'm bored with the tv, my phone and the iPad.  Hopefully Colin can bring in cards or something tomorrow to give us something to do.  

We are hoping I'll get discharged this week.  We should know more tomorrow.  The docs aren't really saying too much because they want to see how these medication changes are working out.  I think they are definitely helping so we will see what the next step is.  

I will post more tomorrow.  Have a good night.  

Saturday October 3

So last night didn't go as plannned.  I ended up coming in to the ER.   I was admitted for the usual nausea, vomiting and pain.  Dr. Cruz made his rounds this morning and changed my meds around.   He's hoping a higher dose of steroids and some antibiotics will help.  

I'm having a horrible time.   I just sit here and cry.  I am so homesick.  It's only been a day.  I'm trying to stay positive.  It sucks.   I just lay here and pray.  That's all I can do.

On another note....we couldn't have made this move without the amazing help of David who drove the box truck and unloaded it in the middle of the night last night.   All while he broke down and couldn't get in touch with Colin because for some reason I ended up with his cell phone in my purse in the ER.  

And the help of Jeremy and Janel who so graciously drove our other vehicle here because I was unable to make the drive.   They helped Colin all day today unpacking, organizing and unloading.  We love you guys and don't know how we could have done this without you.

And of course to Colin who has uprooted his life to move us to hopefully make me better and get me the transplant.   It's going to be difficult and there are a lot of unknowns.   He hasn't even thought twice and just took the reigns to make it happen.   I know I don't say it enough but I love you with all my heart and can't imagine doing this without you by my side.   

For now....I just need to stay positive and focus on getting better.   I will update tomorrow.   

Friday October 2

It's official.   We are on the road to Pittsburgh.   The journey has just started.   We had a lot of hiccups this morning.   From my bag breaking all over the carpeting in the middle of the night to the vomiting fits this morning.   I went to the infusion center and was given fluids/nausea meds.   While I was there my bag broke.   Surprise surprise.  

Dad was with me and helped me clean everything up.  We went back to the house and finished loading the car.  One of the hardest things I've ever had to do is say goodbye to my dad and brother.  I know I'm going to see them soon but it's still really hard to leave.  I am still an emotional wreck.   It's really hard knowing we are going to be so far away from everyone.   It's not exactly the life we chose but it's the hand we have been dealt and are learning to deal with on a daily basis.

Colin said something to me today that really sheds light on the situation.   We can't keep living like we were living.   It's not fair to him, to my family, friends etc.   we need this move so that we can have the transplant and take control of our lives again.  It is something that I'm going to put all of my faith and heart into so I can be a better person for everyone in my life.  

I will post later.   For now I'm going to enjoy the journey and spend some time with my hubby.  Wish us safe travels.   XOXO

Thursday October 1

We are breaking free.   I'm being discharged today to leave for Pittsburgh tomorrow.  Thank you for all the thoughts, prayers and well wishes.  Keep them coming until everything works out ;).  Any help getting through this difficult time is greatly appreciated.   We will keep you posted on our journey.   Thank you for everything.  Have a good day!