Looking up or looking down?

Where do I start describing this past week?

Well, let's talk symptoms.

As I said preciously, I have a little more nausea for the four or five days after chemo but I also have less sensitivity to cold.

This past week has seen the revival of dry mouth and mouth sores. In particular, I have a very sore spot right under the center of my upper lip. The dry mouth is primarily a factor at night, in that it wakes me up. The mouth sore is 24/7 and it affects my interest in eating some things. As a result, while I had gained 6 or 7 pounds prior to last week's chemo, I have lost all of that and perhaps a pound more since the chemo.

I have good energy and a positive outlook. I have played tennis every morning since last Friday and intend to continue. Having said that, I do get a little tired and enjoy the odd rest, except that, if I fall asleep, my dry mouth wakes me up.

Many have asked about my back pain from the shingles. While it was diminishing significantly, it seemed to recur on Monday morning. To be fair, I cannot blame the shingles. It was more likely due to the red BMW that rear-ended me. There was minimal damage to my car, much more to the BMW and my back, neck and wrist are on their way to the chiropractor tomorrow. The rest of me may tag along to see what the doctor says.

On a more serious note, I know that many of you have looked up to the research manager as have I. However, I have gotten a new perspective and must admit that I now look down on the research manager. My magnetic pad for my bed arrived last weekend and it raises me a few inches thus causing me to look down on the research manager who decided that she did not want a pad on her side of the bed.

For those that believe in symbolism, there is even more persuasive evidence, Our bath tub, has a small shelf on one side that begins to receive water only when the tub is half full. Similarly, it has no water when the tub is half empty as the water drains. I am sure that the cleaning lady wonders what five rubber duckies are doing in the tub, but they are. Frequently, and more often than any other, the one named Charlie ends up on the shelf looking down on the other duckies, causing the Charlie duck to look down on the duck named Carol, the research manager.

I am still wearing red shirts and was joined today by many in red at the bridge club. I was gratified for their support and then I realized that it was St. Valentines Day. I couldn't even kiss any of them because it hurts my mouth sore.

But a symbolic kiss of thanks to all of you for your love, caring, prayers and support.