TWO FOR TWO!!!!! (And a BIG **screw you** to cancer!)

Claire found out today that both her mammogram and CT scan were clear.  I cannot imagine how excited, relieved, and happy the little house on Grace Street must be.  HUGE Congratulations to Claire!!!!  Who knew that last year, we would endure breast cancer awareness month with heavy, burdened hearts, but this year we would wrap up the month with tears of joy and a huge need to uncork the finest vintage we can find?!  Cheers to Claire!!!

Awesome Story!

Happy Fall!!!  I am so grateful that this fall has started off way, way, way less eventful than last year.  It is amazing to me how much can happen in just a few months.  One of the many awesome things that has occurred through this whole journey is seeing how people dig deep to find ways to help.  Erin's brother, Alex, is a high school teacher and coach in California.  Just like his sister and his mother, Alex obviously has formed a very special bond with many members of his community, especially his students and athletes.  Last winter, the young people from Palos Verdes High School surprised Alex with gift cards and money to help support Alex and his family through that difficult journey.  The mother of one of Alex's students sent me the following clip from the high school broadcasting group.  Follow the link, click on the broadcast for 9-13-13.  The story is around the 7 min 40 sec mark.  Enjoy!!!

http://www.livefrom205.com/205-shows/

The Garden Girls and Terry

Lately, I have been thinking, "So.... what about Claire?"  I hate that I overlook her a lot, but truth be told, I don't have much info about how my favorite fellow wine lover and mom is doing.  I think she is in a bit of a holding pattern for now, too - finished with radiation and waiting for the team to decide the next step.  

I have heard a few little tidbits about the fun things going on her little world.  I know she and Terry have been up at the island quite a bit, hopefully enjoying the sunshine and the beauty up there.  The two of them have joined forces with Claire's sister, Eileen, to participate in an art show and sale this Sunday, August 18th.  The event, "Expose Yourself to Art," will be held at the Bonner County Fairgrounds from 4-8 p.m.  There will be 30 artists, each showing 30 paintings, that will be available for purchase for $30 apiece.  Proceeds will benefit the Bonner County Fairgrounds.  If you would like to join in the fun, head out to the Fairgrounds and look for paintings by, "The Garden Girls and Terry."  

*Guest* Blogger

***Big News from Erin herself:***

Yesterday I had my first CT Scan since doing chemo and radiation. I finally got the nerve to call and ask for results. It was CLEAR!! No signs of cancer. Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers, it worked! I feel like I can breathe now.

A Graduation, Our Young Explorers, and An Opportunity for YOU!!!

Just over a week ago, my boys and I went to Erin's and Claire's Livestrong Graduation at the Valley YMCA.  I was so excited to attend and share in the gals' achievements.   What I saw was very touching and moving.... and slightly interrupted by our children going on an extended hike out of our line of view.  Truly, the life of a mom doesn't lighten up even for cancer!!!  And sometimes young Indiana Jones Boys need to be wrangled before they get too far.  So, long story short, I missed Claire and Erin's specific presentations from the Livestrong crew, but I heard it was very touching.  I am so proud of the bonds they have formed with other survivors, their newly extended support network in the Spokane area, and the physical, emotional, and bonding journey they completed.  Claire and Erin are truly ROCK STARS!!!!

One of the speakers, another cancer survivor, shared a wonderful opportunity to participate in on-going cancer research.  If you live in the Spokane area, have never had cancer (not including basal or squamous cell skin cancer), and are between the ages of 30 and 65, you are eligible!!!!  The study will involve one visit to one of our three YMCA locations in September and surveys every couple of years.  It will encompass several years, but very little effort on your part.  There will be one appointment, then survey completions every few years.  This study strives to understand better the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that could cause or prevent cancer.  This is one huge step in helping find a cure.  If you are even remotely interested in participating, please visit: https://www.seeuthere.com/rsvp/invitation/invitation.asp?id=/m1c9c3bc-4P3MY6Y5WCLBS  Thank you!!!!  See you at the Y in September!!!!

*****Finally, Happy Tears!!!!!!*****

Earlier this week, Erin shared with me that she had a big test coming up, a two and a half hour mammogram.  YUCK.  She was really apprehensive and worried this whole evil process would be starting over again.  Well, she just called me in tears.  Preparing for the worst, I held my breath and tried to comprehend her words as she told me there was absolutely NO evidence of breast cancer.  As of right now, she is BREAST CANCER FREE!!!!  WAHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Her journey isn't over, but this is absolutely incredible, miraculous news.  She will be continuing herceptin treatments through the fall and will have more tests to see if the cancer metastasized elsewhere, but at the moment, it is time to celebrate!!!  Congratulations, Erin!!!!  Too early for cocktails?  I think NOT!!!  Cheers, my friend!!!

Eleven Pink Months and Counting

Over the last (almost) year, I have learned how precious life is and how quickly things can change - good, hard, or downright rotten.  This year has been one of the harder in my own life and I am merely standing on the sidelines, trying to remember to smile and cheer for my dear friends.  I cannot begin to fathom what this year has been like for Erin and Claire.  Although we haven't chatted about it, I imagine our hopes for the next year are all very similar..... life without cancer, chemo, or any of that heinous crap-ola.  I have no idea what the timeline looks like for tests and whatnot, I truly am *that* good of a friend, but I do know that now both mother and daughter are finally finished with radiation.  Claire wrapped up her last treatment about a week ago.  Although the side effects have been tougher for her, I am sure she is anxious to get past this hurdle and face whatever the next steps may be.  

I am so proud of how hard these two have fought to conquer the vileness of cancer.  I know there must have been so many times that were near impossible to push through, but with the love of family, friends, and even strangers sending whispers of encouragement, our gals continued onward.  Unfortunately, even though the intensity of the initial diagnosis of both women has dwindled, the fight is not over.  I have felt myself relax some, but today I realized something very important.  As Erin was sharing her thoughts about scans to come, I realized that the fear, the life-threatening potential of this awful illness, is still very, very real.  I am so impressed with the strength she and her mother have shown, that I often forget that that strength is part of their armor.  So, to Claire and Erin, I pray for the cancer-free days, when we really can relax with a glass (or case) of wine, and celebrate two bodies filled with healthy, cancer-free cells.  I apologize for getting a little lax lately, but please know that all of us in your vast fan club love you, are pulling for you, and dreaming of the time when this is a rocky road we can hardly recall.  Keep fighting, Ladies.  So proud of you both.

If you would like to renew your supportive energy with a little pick-me-up card:

Erin Hughes / Claire Bistline

3118 W Grace Ave

Spokane WA 99205

Donations can still be made at any Spokane Teachers Credit Union (Spokane, Post Falls, Bonners, Newport) to the "Erin Broughton Hughes Benefit Fund."  I'd love to find some creative ways to boost that account back up as I can only begin to imagine how tough the financial world must be for them both.  Any great fundraiser ideas out there???  Hmmm......  

Finally.... Some Updates!!!

My apologies to Claire, Erin, and their fan club for my negligence with this page lately.  The world of a first grade teacher nearing the close of the school year is exhausting, emotional, and waits for no one.  I truly cannot count the number of times I have thought about writing a post and just couldn't summon the energy to go find my lap top.  Truly, the dozen steps to retrieve it and the dozen back to my comfy perch in my recliner, have been just too much, and then to face the intense physical energy demand of actually typing, impossible!!!!  BUT, I have my laptop now and on with the update!

Erin met a huge milestone this week, she wrapped up her radiation visits!  YES!!!!  Somewhere in the middle of her 33 days of treatment, she was suffering from horrible looking burns.  She said it felt like a sunburn and a rash together and the look of it definitely made me cringe in sympathy.  I was shocked when I saw her this week and the intense blistering burns were completely healed.  We both were confident she was going to scar, but her skin is already looking so much healthier.  Her text to me yesterday, although not appropriate to share verbatim, might lead one to believe she could confidently head out in a bikini this summer, without any scar issues.  So, so happy for her!!!!

Claire is somewhere in the middle of her radiation treatments.  I think she has 2-3 more weeks to go, but I really am not sure.  My apologies to Claire, I know she told me, but my crowded brain let that detail slip right out.  Hopefully, she will progress through radiation without the worry or pain of burns.  Crossing my fingers here and hoping for a smooth ride for her.

Recently, Erin, her boys, my hubby, my boys, and I spent a weekend at Silver Mountain.  We stayed in a two bedroom suite in the lodge and spent many, many, many hours in the water park.  My son celebrated his tenth birthday in the beginning of May and opted for a weekend trip rather than a friend party.  His only request was that Erin and her boys could go with us.  We had to wait until the end of the month, as Erin was just beginning radiation and was unsure how she would handle it.  I couldn't have been prouder of my son when he, without any hesitation, agreed to wait for our dear friends.  Big step for my sometimes impatient ten-year-old.

Our four boys watching a movie on our first night.
Gavin, Quentin, Landon, and Morgan.

One of our many trips around the "lazy" river.
Love Landon's face and our oblivious
big boys.

While we were there, we were bombarded with gales of laughter, endless bodily function humor, many video games and movies, and some very happy boys in the water.  Erin was unable to swim with us, doctor's orders, so my hubbs and I found ourselves enjoying countless rounds in the lazy river with the two younger boys.  Although, after running through the water pushing two happy little men in a tube and singing "Yo Ho, Yo Ho," I am confident the term "lazy river" did not apply to our brood.  Thankfully, the kids got along beautifully, had a wonderful water adventure, and came back to our room exhausted.

The "big boys" - Gavin and Mo.

I think the best part of the whole weekend was waking up Erin with a pina colada or maybe the endless joking about being sister wives.  I really don't know how my sweet husband handled it all.  Oh yeah, two hot wives, four strapping young sons, and alcohol.... that would do it.  Speaking of alcohol.... back to the pina colada story....  The first day, we rented a cabana so our dear friend could relax while listening to the pounding sounds of the indoor park.  Erin curled up on the wicker sofa, reading her book, and eventually fell sound asleep.  Truly, I don't know how she did that.  The noise level in the park was not exactly sleep inducing, migraine inducing, possibly, sleep, NO.  All along, Erin had been telling us that the only thing she wanted to make sure and try was a pina colada.  So, exhausted and drippy, I wandered up to the bar.  Of course, I wouldn't want my sister wife to partake alone, so I made the ultimate friend sacrifice and found a margarita there for me.  Truly, I am a giver that way.  When I made it back to the cabana, booze in hand, I very loudly set her beverage down in front of her.  Erin's eyes sleepily fluttered open and the first thing she saw was a frosty coconut heaven.  All good.  We truly had an extremely memorable time.

The Hughes Men chilling in the cabana.

Exhausted boys at the end of the day with their hot cocoa.

The "Little Boys" - Q and Landy Lou and some tubes of candy powder.

Two, Count 'Em, TWO Cover Girls!!!

BIG, BIG NEWS!!!  A few months ago, I received an e-mail from a reporter, Kathleen, from Health Monitor Magazine. She had been following our little blog and requested an interview with Erin and Claire for their Breast Cancer Treatment Guide.  Initially, I was a touch skeptical - my typical response to anything that sounds like something exciting or cool.  But, knowing that my skepticism was not the important factor this time around, I forwarded the request to Erin and Claire.  After discussing it together, they agreed to the interview.  Early one January morning, Kathleen spent a few hours on the phone with the gals.  She then arranged for an amazing, nationally renowned, professional photographer to come to Spokane to take shots for the guide.  My good friend, Amy, an extremely talented local make-up artist, jumped at the chance to be involved and spent the photo shoot day with our gals, spoiling them and bringing out their inner glow.  As luck would have it, our friends made the cover!!!!  AWESOME!!!!!!

Today, I received the PDF of the Health Monitor Guide. Just as my students were wrapping up their morning activities, I quickly peeked at my e-mail.... oops, big teacher no-no right there.  Honestly, I was already teetering on the edge, but I totally lost all professionalism, sent my students to go get ready for lunch with minimal instruction - dangerous in a first grade classroom this time of year - and called Erin.  I think I just about yelled in the phone, "IT'S HERE!!!!"  Of course, she is fluent in my random "Kim-speak," but wasn't quite sure about this reference.  When I told her the Breast Cancer Treatment Guide had come out, she gasped and begged me to forward the link.  Risking my little people's empty bellies, I quickly sent it off and thankfully got my rowdy bunch to the cafeteria on time, whew!!!  Since then, I have been overwhelming my coworkers and family with the article, beaming every second.  I have read it with tears in my eyes and have smiled with joy at their gorgeous pictures.  I am incredibly proud of our friends for their courage, honesty, and beauty in the face of the biggest fights of their lives.  This type of advocacy will be helpful to so many.  Great work, Ladies!!!  You are an inspiration.... and according to the young men at my home, you are famous now, too!!!  Thank you so much to Kathleen and her crew at Health Monitor Magazine.  The time and attention extended to my dear friends brightened a few dark January days.  If you would like to view the guide, please click on the link below.

Health Monitor Breast Cancer Treatment Guide

I have very little to update about the gals, medically speaking.  I know Erin has been handling radiation well and been feeling decent.  The two are keeping up with many activities - Live Strong, yard sales, gardening, and apparently a knitting class - who knew???  They seem to both be feeling well and enjoying the beautiful Spokane spring.  I have gotten to visit some, often walking away with a smile and a chuckle.  I don't know how they keep their humor all the time, but I am so glad they do!!!  I have also gotten to steal the boys on Mondays for the newly named, "Midget Mondays," named from my faux pas with the drunken midgets comment, oops, BUT all four boys look forward to it and often fill my home with the delightful sounds of giggles and bodily function humor.  Aaaahhhhhh...... boys.

Ok, Erin is definitely going to have words with me, but I have to share something I think is very humbling and kind of funny.  (Of course, what I think is funny is often questionable, but I digress.)  SO, all of us met on the TJ Meenach bridge last Sunday to watch the Bloomsday race.  As we were sitting in the breeze, I made some comment about my messy hair flying every which way.  Truly, it was a touch embarrassing, but I had put off vanity to make the race on time... or close to on time.  As we cheered on the 50,000 plus runners, I made some comment about how extremely beautiful my frizzy mop was.  I sure did feel awesome when Erin said, "Guess what?  I had a dream the other night that I HAD hair.  It looked just like yours, but a little shorter.  I was so, so happy."  OUCH.  Of course, I know her intentions did not include popping my huge bubble of glorious self-deprecation, but she was successful in halting the train on my frizzy pity party tracks.  To be fair, she did reiterate, several annoying times, that that was NOT what she meant.  I do believe her, but I also think it was damn good for me to think about it all.  Yep, my hair was a bit of a mess, but if that is the biggest of my own personal worries, I am doing ok.  And, if she really is dreaming about hair as gorgeous as my own, I think she should set her sights just a little bit higher... or thicker, I'm not sure.

Drunken Midgets.... Seriously!

Finally, finally, FINALLY I got to see Erin for a little bit.  LeeAnn, a friend of a friend of mine, delivered another meal for me to take to the family.  I cannot believe how many meals LeeAnn has brought.  She didn't even know Erin the first time she signed up!  Amazing.  I love seeing the good in people, perfect strangers in fact!  So, with food in tow, my boys and I bombarded Erin's home unannounced.  I am so glad we did as I was able to squeeze in a quick visit with my buddy.  Erin is set to begin radiation this Thursday, she had a great weekend in Seattle with family, and has been feeling decent.  I am hoping radiation and Erin get along well or at least better than the loathsome chemo.  Fingers crossed!

Erin shared with me that she and Claire were headed to their Live Strong workout class after I left.  I'm not sure what all that entails, but I am confident it involved burning more calories than I had planned for my evening.  While we were discussing it, the excitement pouring from our boys at finally being reunited was intoxicating.  Those boys were ecstatic!  I think I might have been inhaling too much testosterone, or was light headed from the buzz of the young men, but I clearly overestimated my stamina!  After a full Monday of teaching rowdy first graders, I offered to take all of the monkeys to my house while Erin and Claire went to their class.  Clearly I was not thinking straight at all!!!  Erin asked me several times if I was sure, although the time she asked when the stuffed bear was flying through her living room at mach 10 was not exactly sincere.  But, bursting with overconfidence, I whisked the four crazies away and took them to my house.  Those boys played and played and played.  We all laughed like hyenas when they figured out a way to make the Lego Jack Sparrow on the Wii glitch so that it looked like he was dancing.  If that weren't enough, Gavin whipped out his phone and added a theme song - Gangnam Style, of course.  Even though I despise that song as a frequent offender of getting stuck in my head, I must admit, it was hilarious.  I thought all four boys would surely suffocate from lack of oxygen, or perhaps would be begging for dry pants, the laughter was THAT uncontrollable.

Jeez, I couldn't get a focused picture of these whirling dervishes.

Then, some neighbor girls showed up to play, too.  I'm not sure what the young ladies expected with my wild brood, but they fit in just fine and seemed to rival the boys in their level of giddiness and giggles.  Leaving my living room to the whims of the young, I poured a nice glass of wine, grabbed my kindle and headed for the front porch.  My hubby arrived shortly after my exodus and asked what I was doing.  I raised my glass and said, "I'm enjoying a nice evening on the porch while our home is full of drunken midgets."  Truly, that is exactly what it felt like.  Of course, my six-year-old heard my comment and has repeated it numerous times since then.  I can't wait for the phone call from his kindergarten teacher later. How do you gracefully admit to calling your children "drunken midgets?"  And if that weren't enough, it wasn't just my children!  oops!!!  Sorry to the moms of the other drunken midgets.... I mean sweet, happy, little children! 

And finally, thank you to friends and family who participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Spokane this past Sunday.  I was proud to walk with my dear friend, Robin, wearing our BooBees shirts in support of these two amazing ladies.  I heard there were more BooBees shirts out there.  Thanks for honoring our friends as they continue on this journey.

Whoop Whoop!!! (part deux)

CONGRATULATIONS CLAIRE!!!!!!  Claire has reached a huge milestone in her journey!  This last Monday was her FINAL chemotherapy treatment!!  Awesome!!!!!  I am so, so happy for her!  This truly is a huge hurdle that is happily left in her past.  Hopefully, the next week or so treats her kindly, as this little poison concoction has not been a walk in the park at all.  So glad both gals are through this part of their treatment.  Please continue to keep them both in your thoughts and prayers as they learn where the cancer path will take them and they focus on healing.

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure will be held in Spokane this Sunday.  I will be walking with a very dear friend of mine in honor of Erin and Claire.  I apologize for not being on top of getting a team together for our gals - a HUGE friend FAILURE!!!  But, if you are participating and would like a BooBees shirt, please e-mail me - kimleighty@comcast.net  I have a few left over, not a lot of choices in sizes, but a few.  So, so sorry Erin and Claire for not honoring you with a team, but my heart and the hearts of many will be dedicated to you both this Sunday.

****Erin asked me to edit this post.  I told her she can't always get what she wants, but she didn't exactly play fair, something about this blog being for her and Claire.  What is up with that?  SO, as a compromise, here ya go.   I am sorry I didn't get a team going for the race, but I get that I am not a "friend failure."   I'm a "HUGE" friend failure.  HA!  You don't know how to get into the blog, Little Missy, I can post what I want.  Be careful.... I know stuff. 

Tax Day Celebrations

The last few weeks have been fairly productive for our friends.  I apologize for my severe blog negligence, but somehow I managed to get quite ill with influenza, so much for that flu shot I endured for nothing!!  So, with a renewed energy, I am ready to fulfill my blog obligations.

I thought I would start with Claire this time.  She had chemo about a week ago or so..... maybe two.  Due to my lovely germs, I haven't been able to see the gals, so my poor little mind is a little cloudy.  Erin shared with me that Claire's final chemo treatment will be on April 15th.  That seems like a strange way to celebrate tax day, but it will be a reason to celebrate nonetheless.  I know the side effects of this chemo concoction are icky, so thank goodness this is the last one.

Recently, my sweet neighbors, Joe and Claudette, gifted some tickets to West Side Story to my hubbs and me.  It was the traveling Broadway-esque production.  Jim and I were beyond excited to go.  Unfortunately, I really was very sick, and couldn't make it.  Thankfully, Claire and Terry were available at a moment's notice and our tickets didn't go to waste.  I was so, so excited for them both as they would really enjoy it and would appreciate a night out. Without question, the tickets were meant to go to them.  Thank you Joe and Claudette, I heard the show was incredible!  Claire and Terry are set to leave tomorrow for a visit in Arizona.  I'm sure they can't wait to hug all of their dear Ajo friends.  Enjoy the sunshine!!!!

Erin had her last chemo and struggled some afterwards.  She certainly scared me when she started entertaining a high fever and was staring a hospital stay in the face.  Luckily, the meds helped contain the fever and keep her at home.  Whew.  Now, she is driving us crazy with her yard sale finds that end up on our porch, a wonderful touch of normalcy for my dear friend.  She and the boys also left to visit family in Reno for Spring Break.  I am so happy that she had the strength to make the drive and spend time with her loved ones in Nevada.  Erin said she enjoyed a bald "Pretty Woman" bath in her hotel room's extravagant spa tub.  Funny, that was some very good mental imagery.  I am so glad she is getting spoiled and enjoying her time away.

Erin is going to celebrate tax day in an odd way, too.  She will begin radiation that day.  She will have 33 treatments, going for a short time everyday.  UGH.  The side effects don't sound awesome - fatigue, chance of nicking the lungs, possibility of weakened ribs, and risk of cardiovascular heart disease.  JEEZ, her heart has had enough, let's hope that risk does not come to fruition.  Erin will be getting her tattoos next week to mark the points of radiation.  Strange first tattoo, but I'm sure we will be getting some bumblebees when this nightmare is over!!!  Maybe bumblebees right over those radiation tattoos?  Maybe.

Please continue to keep these wonderful women in your thoughts and prayers.  I know they have endured so much already, but this journey is definitely not over.  I am also working on extending the dates on the meal calendar.  As Erin faces radiation and Claire finishes chemo, I'm sure they would benefit from meals for the munchkins and less responsibility on them.  The boys like typical kid fare - pizza, macaroni, chicken nuggets, etc.  Hopefully, Erin will be up to eating after radiation, but time will tell how she endures it.  Thanks!

ERIN'S LAST ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Whoop Whoop!!!!  Today is a huge milestone for Erin.  Today is her very last chemotherapy treatment!!!!  She went to her acupuncturist yesterday and is so ready to kick some chemo butt.  Last one!!!  Erin is fiercely determined and pretty excited.  I'm not sure exactly what the next step will be, I know she has talked about the possibility of radiation.  I'll post when I know more.  For now, today is a huge, huge, huge celebration.  Whoop Whoop!!!

Friendship

Caring, giving, self-sacrificing, these are all words I would use to describe Erin.  She is the type of person who has shown up at my doorstep with an easy bake oven she found at a yard sale, because she knew I always wanted one as a kid.  Or, buys another friend a real Cabbage Patch doll because she didn't have one when she was little.  Erin is also the person who volunteers to watch my kids when they are sick, even though she is home enduring chemo side effects. Truly, she is the type of person to bend over backward for a friend and think nothing of it.  Well, this week I have been fighting some really nasty bug.  When Erin found out I was sick, she asked me what I needed.  I told her I needed her little chemo butt to stay far, far away from the germs at my house.  She said she would leave things on the porch and never come in contact with the air I am breathing.  I assured her I needed nothing but rest and went on my way.  Well, about day three of my lovely illness, Erin sent me a text, indicating I should peek on the porch.  Yep, total care package out there for me - cough drops, magazines, flowers, and more.  Seriously?  I am going to be just fine, she is the one who should be looking after herself.  She and Claire repeated the gesture yesterday, with a small, thoughtful surprise left on my porch.  I'm not sure what I did to deserve such a great friend, but I know I am so, so blessed.

Honestly, I have not been able to visit with these two much lately.  I am hoping they are doing well and handling chemo as best they can.  I know that Erin only has one more dose of chemo, but I'm not sure where Claire is at in her schedule.  Hopefully, I will have more updates, soon.

Thank you to our latest dinner delivery gal, too.  A friend of a friend of mine, who does not know Erin or Claire or me, has signed up to bring multiple dinners to the family.  When I thanked her for taking the time and energy, she was very humble and acted like this is just what people do.  Honestly, I love seeing that.  There has been more good in this journey than I ever could have imagined.  It is something I wouldn't wish on anyone, but seeing the way our community rallies to help out others is awe inspiring.  Thank you!!!!

Chemo and Coyotes

About a week ago, Jennifer Holm  and I were lucky enough to steal Erin away for dinner.  She was at just the right place in her chemo cycle to be feeling up for a little Twigs therapy.  I'm not sure if I was more impressed with my friends scrambling to get their drink orders in before the end of happy hour, or the devouring of the peanut butter chocolate mousse.  It really was quite a sight on all levels.  It was also awesome to laugh, joke, share stories, and experience a regular old girls' night.  (Old night..... definitely not old girls!!!)  The only thing that could have made the evening better was if our friend Kerrie could have joined us.  Ahhhh.... next time!!!!

Last Wednesday, Erin spent the day in the chemo recliner.  She has one more round to go.  The day prior to chemo, she did see her acupuncturist, in hopes of minimizing the nausea.  Erin said she still feels nauseous, but the acupuncture definitely made a difference.  In her words, this time doesn't feel like there is a pot of poison simmering in her belly.   While she is faring better, Erin did not escape all of the side effects of  exhaustion and nausea.  Throw in some killer hot flashes (a common chemo side effect), just for fun, and Erin has spent most of her time post-chemo in bed.  One more to go, Erin.  One more time!!  Whew.

I saw Claire briefly about a week ago.  She seemed to be doing well and was getting ready to go for a walk with Terry.  Hopefully, they will avoid the neighborhood coyotes they found on their last walk.  While strolling through the golf course, Willow (Erin's dog) went running for a bit.  She came back with a coyote hot on her tail.  Oblivious to it all, Willow kept running and suddenly had two coyotes trying to tag team her. The coyotes changed their plan when they spotted Willow's grandparents approaching.  Crazy!  As far as Claire's journey goes, she will be returning to the chemo room this week.  She is not a fan of this chemo concoction, either.  It would be grand if she endured it better than the last round.  Time will tell.

The link to the meal calendar is on the right.  If you feel inclined to send a meal, please sign up.  Sometimes it seems hard to know what to prepare for our ladies, but keep in mind they are feeding two little men, too.  An option for the kids instead of Erin and Claire would work.  The boys like all the typical kids' foods - macaroni, pizza, etc.  Thank you to so many of my own friends who have sent meals.  Many of these friends have never even met Erin or Claire.  Your caring and understanding touches my heart.  Thank you.

Also, cards of support are always appreciated.  3118 W Grace Ave, Spokane WA 99205.  Thanks for thinking of these two amazing women!!!!

All Kinds of News

I was lucky enough to sneak in a small visit with Erin, Claire, and Claire's sister, Susan.  They were having a cozy Valentine's Day snuggled up with Claire, who was experiencing a harder day, post-chemo.  Erin and Claire both agree that this new chemo cocktail is not very kind.  Erin has discovered that acupuncture has been helpful with the nausea and fatigue.  Hopefully that will continue to be a successful tool for her.  Although both women have been facing some unpleasant side effects, we still enjoyed some chatting, teasing,  a touch of gossip, and maybe just enough profanity to make a sailor blush.  All in all, it was wonderful to see their positive nature shine through, even on a harder day.

The gals and I did receive some fun news this weekend.  Our blog has been selected as one of the top cancer blogs by Empowered Doctor.  Empowered Doctor is a news affiliate of The Chicago Tribune, Arizona Central, and CBS New York.  To begin with, I think we are all a little shocked that our humble little blog crossed their computer screens at all.  We are just beginning to learn what this recognition means, but are so excited for the possibilities.  I keep thinking back to when Erin was first diagnosed this summer.  This blog really started as a way to communicate her updates and stories with her friends and family.  Within a couple of months, we sadly added Claire to the cancer journey.  Although the original intention was just communication with loved ones, we are all learning the vastness of our audience.  I am so, so incredibly proud of Erin and Claire for allowing me to share their stories.  Through their openness with me and their willingness to publicize this journey, they are helping to hold the hands of many other people struggling directly with cancer or supporting a loved one in the same predicament.  Thank you, Erin and Claire.  This blog might be pounded out by my fingers, but the stories belong to you.  Your courage and strength will benefit so many.  I am so, so proud of both of you.

A Phenomenal Benefit and Some Chemo Updates

Without question, Terry and Claire have been blessed with some fabulous friends in Ajo.  A few weeks ago, their Arizona family held a benefit silent auction and dance fundraiser.  All of the tickets were sold, filling their venue to capacity.  Local artisans donated all kinds of wonderful items like handmade jewelry, handmade pottery, original paintings, private in-home concerts, brunch for six, as well as many other amazing finds.  Paintings by both Claire and by Terry were auctioned off, touching off a bit of a bidding war by some friends.  The winner of Claire's painting donated it the same night to a mutual friend who loved it so much.  What a touching gesture!  It sounds to me like something Claire herself would do.  Awesome.  Thank you to everyone who donated items, purchased tickets, bid on the prizes, and helped make this event a huge success.  Special thanks to Chris Manson, Wendee Cloutier, Deborah Whittemore, and Ralph Hudson for making this the most organized event imaginable.  My apologies if I missed anyone, just know that all of the time, blood, sweat, and tears that went into this event is greatly appreciated.  Claire and Terry can feel the love, even from miles away.  I'm sure it has brightened many of their days in gray, wintry Spokane.  Thank you!

Claire returned to chemo today.  Hopefully, it will be kind to her.  This is her first taste of the "poison" since her mastectomy.  In time, she will see how her body reacts to this breed of chemo.  We are all crossing our fingers that it does the job, while sparing her the awful side effects.  Claire did receive some good news from her CT scan.  Her cancer has not spread to any other locations!!!!!  AWESOME!!!!!   She will be having chemo treatments every three weeks, with a total of four rounds of chemo in this set.

Erin had another round of chemo last week, her second since her lumpectomy.  This type of chemo is different than what she had last fall and is not treating her kindly.  Erin is struggling with intense nausea and extreme fatigue.  Hopefully, the side effects will lessen soon.  She shared with me that while she was having a particularly difficult moment, her sweet Landy Lou brought her juice, crackers, and tissues to try to console his loving mama.  What a sweet little man!  Those two boys are remarkable.

If you would like to send Erin and Claire your support, cards can be sent to:
3118 W Grace
Spokane WA 99205

Also, their meal calendar has seen very little activity since the holidays.  January is so hard for all of us!  If February is treating you kinder and you would like to sign up, please do.  Thank you!!!

Schweitzer Pictures!

Schweitzer!!!

Last week, Alex and his family flew up to visit with Erin, Claire, and family.  The visit meant so much to our gals who were counting the days until the arrival of the Broughton Family from California.  They spent a long weekend up at Schweitzer together.  They rented a condo and enjoyed some time visiting.  Alex and his wife, Narumi, took the kids skiing and had a blast.  Three of Erin's aunts and one of her uncles were able to visit, too.  Erin shared that it was super relaxing and very fun.  They hung out, went out to dinner, played cribbage, and shared stories.  From all accounts, Erin and Claire enjoyed some precious time with family and will be looking forward to the next get together.

This round of chemo has been kicking Erin's buns a little, but overall, she seems to be in good spirits and coping well.  Please continue to keep both Erin and Claire in your thoughts and prayers as they continue to fight their battles with cancer.  Thank goodness the blueness of January is departing in a few short hours.  I know at my house, the excitement of the holidays has passed, the checking account is just barely in the black, homework for my little people is mounting quickly, work demands keep me hopping, and my inclination is to hibernate with a hot mug of tea and wait out these dark days.  I'm hoping that as Erin and Claire's friends, we can tap into some of the enthusiasm we felt during the holidays and keep sharing our love and encouragement with these amazing women in whatever ways we can.  Letters or cards of encouragement and support can be sent to 3118 W Grace, Spokane WA 99205.  If you are inclined to make a meal for our friends, please visit their meal calendar.  Thank you!

Life with Chemo

Chemo is really an ugly monster.  Overall, Erin is doing well, but has been fighting some nausea, sour stomach, and a headache or two.  Oh how fun.  Luckily, she has been able to enjoy some fun things, too.  She and I whisked Claire and Terry away to see Les Miserables yesterday.  Simply amazing!  Thank goodness we brought the tissues for one of us..... not saying who, but there might have been a sob or two stifled in our row.  We also stopped for lunch.  Who knew a chemo belly would enjoy some sushi after a little bit of popcorn??

Today, we met at Chuck E. Cheese to let the boys run and play.  That was three hours of solid fun!  Well, fun.... except for when that crazy critter came out to lead a dance party, much to the horror of a couple of little people.  AND, other sad news, someone needs to inform Mr. Cheese that switching to Pepsi does not make these two tired moms excited!  NOT AT ALL!!!!  What in the world?  Huge disappointment.  Oh well, the skee ball, basketballs, and slobber coated vampire teeth definitely made up for it.  

Erin's brother and his family are coming to town this Thursday.  Erin and her family are looking forward to spending the weekend with them at Schweitzer.  It sounds like everyone is crazy excited for the visit.  Hopefully the gurgling belly stuff will have run its course and Erin can enjoy some family time.

Birthday Celebrations!!!

It definitely sounds like Erin had a fabulous birthday weekend.  She started off her festivities on Friday by dining with our long time friends, Jennifer and Kerrie.  I'm sure the evening was filled with tales of their children, giggles about many old stories, and apparently some delicious clams for the birthday girl.  Sorry to miss out on this very special girls' night!  Next time!!!

On Saturday, Erin enjoyed a quiet morning at home, a massage, her first foray to Polka Dot Pottery (which she LOVED), and a birthday dinner with friends.  A million thanks to Dyanne and Su for arranging Erin's incredible day.  She shared that it was absolutely amazing, very relaxing, and exactly what she needed.  A HUGE thank you to Su's hubby for taking all the boys swimming, followed by dinner out, and video games at the McDonald home.  Brave, brave man!!!  I know Erin greatly appreciated the time.

On Monday, Erin celebrated her actual birthday at Milford's, enjoying a yummy martini and the best seafood in Spokane.  Sweet Landy Lou accompanied his mom to dinner along with another friend.  Unfortunately, Gavin was feeling under the weather and not able to join in the festivities.

I was unable to see Erin this weekend as my family was out of town visiting friends and family.  This morning, I hurried by her home to drop off her present on my way to work.  I set the package on her doorstep, knocked on the door, and got in the car.  Well, as we all know, Erin is one of the most giving, caring people ever, and showed it again today.  As I was pulling out, I saw my sweet friend, barreling down the driveway, wrapped in a blanket, wearing her pajamas, bald head completely exposed (very, very rare!!), BAREFOOT in the snow, and carrying a small package.  One of my first grade students and his family have done many things to help out Erin.... too many things to mention.  Well, sweet Erin had a small thank you for my guy and was NOT going to let another day pass without getting it to the little man.  Barefoot..... what was she thinking?  Oh yeah, like always, she was thinking of others, regardless of the discomfort to her.  On a separate note, I must say, Erin was absolutely stunning.  I don't know how she pulls it off, but she is definitely one hot baldie!!!

After her barefoot adventure in the icy driveway, Erin unfortunately had to set off for another round of chemo.  She has three more to go after today's dose and will finish up around April.  Her team will then discuss what the next steps will be.  I know items on the table include maybe a mastectomy, radiation, or perhaps both.  As for now, hopefully Erin will tolerate the chemo well and will be feeling awesome for a visit with her brother soon.  I know she has been looking forward to seeing him.

Thank you to everyone who made her birthday weekend extremely special.  Erin is beyond grateful for the support, the time to relax, the visits with friends, and ultimately getting to see how much she means to so many.  As Erin stares down this chemo monster once again, cards of encouragement can be sent to her home at 3118 W Grace, Spokane WA 99205.  Thank you!!!!

Enjoying the Sunshine

Last week, Claire and Terry flew out of the snowy mess in Spokane for some time with friends in Ajo.  I hear they are being quite spoiled in their desert home and haven't had to cook a single meal, awesome!  Love the pictures!

Claire with her friend, Hope

Claire in the sunny desert!  YEAH, her hand is in her pocket!

Terry and friends sipping lattes in the plaza

A church in the plaza.  Beautiful!!!!

It's About Time!!!

Finally..... some good news!  Erin met with her oncologist to review her scan results.  Her cancer has NOT spread!!!!!!!!  AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  The new plan is for her to restart chemo next week.  She will have four chemo treatments and finish that phase.  Then, the team will reconvene to decide the next step.  Thank you for all the prayers and well wishes.  It was finally Erin's turn for some fabulous news - best birthday present EVER!!!!!! 

Updates

Erin had a P.E.T scan this week to determine if the cancer has spread.  I believe the docs were specifically focused on her bones, brain, lungs, and liver, but am not positive on that detail.  At this point, Erin has not received the results and is anxious to hear from her doctors.  She thought the earliest she would hear anything would be later next week.  Based on these results, a plan will be made for her future treatment.  I will post as soon as I hear.

Claire is doing well.  I know it hasn't been all sunshine and roses, but I am amazed at how well she has handled recovery from her mastectomy thus far.  It isn't like she has been symptom free, but Claire is strong and fighting back.  She was given the green light to fly and has tickets for a trip to Arizona soon.  I am sure she is over the moon excited to see her Ajo friends and maybe enjoy some warmer temps!  Claire and Terry recently accompanied my family and some friends to a wine tasting.  I know we wore her out, but it was so awesome to see them both having fun.  LOVE it!!!!

Erin's birthday is coming up on January 14th.  I told her she shares a birthday with Benedict Arnold, but I don't think she was impressed at all.  Perhaps it would impress her more to learn her special day is also the anniversary of the birth of Andy Rooney and Faye Dunaway?  Maybe???  Or.... well.... L.L. Cool J?  Not sure.  In any case, birthday cards can be sent to her at 3118 W Grace, Spokane WA 99205.  Thanks!!!

Their benefit fund is still open for donations, and will be open until this mess is over.  Donations can be made at any Spokane Teachers Credit Union to the "Erin Broughton Hughes Benefit Fund." Also, a link to the wide open meal calendar is on the right side of the blog for any interested chefs out there.  Thank you for all the support, encouragement, positive thoughts, meals, cards, care packages, and prayers sent to these inspiring women.  I know that is what keeps them fighting and smiling.  Blessings to this new year.  May 2013 be much healthier than 2012.