Results

The ladies at CDI Winghaven took excellent care of me.  Joan took my history and helped me relax.  A mammogram is very easy, quick and doesn't hurt at all.  My mind is all over the place and my heart is beating rapidly as I sign in.  I so do NOT want to be here.  I promised my husband I would go, after finding out that his friends wife was just diagnosed last week.  I had seen her about a month ago.  She did not look like she had breast cancer.  That's the thing though.  You may not look like you have it or experience any symptoms so, early detection is the key.

I entered the small room, locked up my stuff and immediately noticed Hershey's kisses in a bowl.  Nice touch.  Chocolate, just what I needed. I decided that I would have one for just for coming today and a second after the exam. I put on the top they provided and was lead to another room with a lot of hi-tech machines.  I just wanted to get in and out of here as soon as possible. The exam took less then four minutes.  Joan had the shots she needed and lead me back to the chocolate room.  I dressed, grabbed my kiss and left.  In the parking lot, I let Jim know I was done and heading home. He told me he loved me and thanks for going. (encouraging spouses are awesome)

The next day my phone rang, it was my doctor office with my results.  I let it ring four times, I felt frozen in time.  I was also driving, I never answer my phone while driving.  Exception made, the receptionist informed me that my girls were fine.  Whew.  I pulled into my driveway upon hanging up and cried.  I was fine.  What a relief.  My husband pulled up right after me, he is on the phone with his friend.  His wife is doing as well as can be expected, not yet knowing what her course of action is.  Jim reassures him that she will be fine.  I tell him I have my results.  I am fine.  Jim sports a huge smile and hugs me.  This was a very awkward moment for me.  I was celebrating being healthy with tears of joy while experiencing painful tears at the same time for my friend.

Knowledge is power. If you haven't been checked yet, JUST DO IT.  Fellas, strongly suggest that your lady gets hers done. Do not accept any excuse.  Make her appointment for her.  Take her to lunch afterwards. You know you wouldn't know what to do without her, so keep her healthy.

Live life loud,
Wendy

Cancer Sucks

That being said, it is time for me to come clean.  My mother was diagnosed three years ago.  Her cancer was diagnosed early and dealt with quickly.  She told me before anyone else and swore me to secrecy.  My siblings would be told slowly over time. She wasn't sure how to tell them. - I am the oldest, I could handle it-  Within a week everyone knew.

I was pissed for a while.  Why would God give my 61 yr old mother cancer?  Give it to me, I am younger, I am stronger, I am healthier, etc... I could handle it. Her chemo seemed to take forever.  Telling her grand-kids why her hair fell out was easier than telling her grown children. ( the kids only asked a couple questions)  Fast forward to now, she is fine and passed her recent check-up with flying colors.  Turns out her biological mom was not so lucky.  My mom found out she was adopted after her bio-mom had already passed.  She had breast cancer.

I have not had an exam since 2009.  Tomorrow I have an appointment.  I am a little nervous.  I have an 85% chance of getting breast cancer.  Not easy to swallow.  I consider myself healthy.  I eat a vegetarian diet.  I exercise regularly and then some.  I do not smoke.  I have a lot going for me. However, I have two huge marks against me.  Honestly, I am afraid to go.  I don't want to know.  Then it came to me..... If I had cancer I would definitely kick its ass.  How can I kick its ass if I don't know I have it?

 

EPIPHANY

I finally have a moment to breathe after a long day.  My day was jam packed with things that many find mundane and boring, especially when they find out there is NO pay, but nonetheless, those things needed to get done. As I sat on the deck pondering tomorrow, I had an epiphany of sorts and would like to share it with you.

   I have a part-time job now, a writing gig on the side, volunteer at the school, etc.... You get the idea.  I absolutely have to get several tasks done tomorrow, other items on the list are not so dire.  I was thinking of how I could rearrange my day in order to guarantee I could get the most important tasks off my list.  There was only one way I could achieve this goal.  Give up my one hour training session with my son.  Sure, I could miss one right?  Not a big deal, I am not training for anything, right?  I have another session scheduled later this week.  It will be alright, it's just one.

Earlier today

 My son handed me two 40 pound dumbbells.  One in each hand he wanted me to step up and down from a riser he built, 28 inches , then lowered to 20 inches off the ground. I performed it about three times and thought some awful thoughts knowing I had to do 12.  He was kidding me right?  The weight was very uncomfortable , uncomfortable to keep hoisting up and down. My knees were hurting, I was breathing hard.  He pointed out that the amount of weight I was carrying was very close to the amount of weight I had lost.  It took a couple more times up and down for me to get it. I felt as if  I was lugging my old self, my old body up and down that step.  How the hell did I carry all that extra weight?  Why did I carry that weight so long?  Then it hit me.....

I was too busy in my past to take care of myself.  I put everyone's needs before my own.  Above my own.  My mother taught me how to do that, really she did.  As a child I watched her give and give to everyone but herself.  She took care of everyone but herself.  She thought that was what she was supposed to do.  She was supposed to be a good wife and a good mother. At the expense of what though?  Of being herself and living her life?  I realized earlier in life than she did, that if you don't take care of yourself, you can't really take care of anyone else.

When you first say it, it sounds selfish.  Well, it did to me.  I started putting myself on my to do list.  whether its a quick run in the morning or a bike, I find time to do it.  Sometimes I multi-task, like getting groceries on the bike, or going to the bank and library.  No matter what, I do not take myself off the list.  I took myself off the list one time and it lasted years.  Do not waste years of your life. Cancelling one training appointment would not have set me off into a downward spiral.  However, it would have gone a against what I believe. I believe I am a better wife, mother, friend, and human because I take care of myself. There is no doubt about it.

Put yourself on your To Do list.  Whether it's to shop, run, bike, whatever your passion is.  You deserve to have a piece of your day.    

Move It Davis

It has been a long time since I worked out in a gym.  When I was in high school I used the schools' gym religiously.  If  memory serves, there was really nothing to it.  It was a small, dirty, stinky room covered in greasy fingerprints.  There was a limit to how many of us could be in the room at one time.  I remember one big, multiple exercise machine in the middle of the room and one rack of dumbbells.  Near the orange cooler of room temperature water was a pile of jump ropes and towels that had seen better days. Things have come a long way since the 80's.

My son Trevor works in a Club Fitness as a certified personal trainer.  He knew I wasn't into the gym experience but, kept asking me to come in and check it out.  I had been inside the facility a couple times and was impressed with the layout of machines, how clean the place was, and I liked the music they had on.  Trevor was persistent and I finally caved last week.  Why the hell did I wait so long?

I ride a bike, I like to run, what do I need a gym for, was my mentality.  I have done several boot camps, with 20 others, which I liked, however, this would be my first one-on -one with anyone.  Not just anyone, my son.  I had heard he was very good at working people out, encouraging them, pushing them.  I had no doubts, he is very passionate about what he does.  I made it clear to him that he was not to treat me differently because I was his Mom. At one point he called me "Davis".  I prefer that over " Mother".   Trevor  knows what I am capable of  and I wanted him to put me through the ringer.

He did not disappoint .  My upper body strength is seriously lacking.  It is unfortunate that I have seriously injured both arms, which makes push ups a bit difficult, and basically anything else that requires arms, but I will get through it.  My favorite exercise was the 10 pound sledge hammer beating on the truck tire.  I should have one of those in my backyard.  ( Admit it, there are times it feels real good to beat the crap out of something.   Cheaper than therapy too. ) I have wanted to do a pull up for years.  Trevor introduced  me to a machine that will achieve that goal.  The machine provides a counter weight of your choice as a balance while you do the pull up.  Make sense?  For example, I weigh 147, we set the machine at 80 pounds.  That way I was only lifting 67 pounds in the pull up.  That is my starting point.  With two, one hour sessions a week, I see doing a 'real' pull up soon.

My hour passed quickly and I made my appointments for the next week.  I believe this time with my son is important to both of us.  He is aware of my goals and wants to help me get there.  I can't think of anyone I would rather have to help me.  Together we are an awesome team.

Planning A Camping Adventure

Her walking stick was bigger than she was

Sydney, currently 6, has been an outdoor girl since September 2006.  She was just six months old when Jim and I took her to her first Ozark Trail Association- OTA- trail build.  Needless to say, the two of us did not get a lot of trail built, we spent most of the time under a tree, me holding an umbrella while I breast fed her. Actually, it really wasn't that bad. We took her on many day hikes before attempting an over-nighter.  By July 2007, she was 18 months old and completed a three day hike of Berryman and Council Bluff.

Berryman July 2007

I wanted to give you some background info to assure you I know what I am talking about.  Preparing for a week long camping adventure seems overwhelming.  At first, it really is.  The planning and prepping for our trips did get easier over the years. I learned so much during those early outings, I could write a book.  Hmmmm.    Having done this so many times I can now get us camp ready blindfolded and in my sleep.  

Tree-huggers!

   My mind was free to pack and plan meals once I found someone willing to :

* Watch the house
* Pick up the mail
* Take care of the dog
* Water my garden

****Thank you Trevor and Emily

FOOD


I plan our meals based on what I have on hand first.  Leftovers do not go to waste at my house and are easy to reheat.  Using this time to clean out the fridge is a good idea too.  That way you don't come home to spoiled food and a stinky refrigerator.

Try to set up a daily meal plan.  I like lists, they work for me.  Make it easy on yourself.  Pre-made foods are quick options and keep your cooking time to a minimum. In the past, I have prepared home-made  stews, soups, spaghetti and BBQ pulled pork.  (  That was before I became a vegetarian ) Packing a cooler full of fruits and vegetables is easy. I make sure to clean and slice them beforehand and place them in freezer bags.  Using frozen Platypus bottles or water bladders in addition to loose ice cubes is a good idea, especially when it's hot.  If you have a large cooler, you can also freeze 1 gallon water jugs.  As a bonus, you have drinking water as they thaw out.

Plan easy snacks.  Granola, protein, and cereal bars are a great option.  Keep it simple.  Cut up fruit, apples, bananas, etc... If you bring it , they will eat it.  After planning your menu, make a grocery list of items you still need.  Easy so far?

ESSENTIALS


Having had a lot of experience outdoors, I know what works and what doesn't.  Our family uses Bullfrog  Mosquito Coast, and a lot of it.    Mosquitoes, pesky gnats, and biting flies are no fun.  Not to leave out the danger of being bitten by a tick and possibly getting lyme disease or worse, Ehrlichiosis .

I like to stock up on sunscreen, took three bottles on this trip.  We prefer the spray on, sweat proof, sport sunblock.  Purchase a couple travel size lotions too.  They don't take up much space in a backpack.  When we returned home, we had less than half of one bottle left.  Maybe I am a sunscreen nazi, nonetheless, you can't be too careful if you are blonde and blue-eyed.

Toss in a bottle of Doc Bronners soap, baby wipes, Advil Liqui-gels, and travel size tooth brushes/paste and you are good to go.  Don't forget any medication.  It's hard to find a Walgreens in the woods.

CLOTHING


There is no one to impress while camping.  Choose light colored, loose fitting, breathable clothes and you will be comfortable during the summer weather.  Keep in mind that whatever you wear may get ruined or turn into permanent "camping only" clothing.  Piece of advice.... pick an old swim suit since it will never be the same after a week of playing in the river.  Sydney is old enough to pick out and pack her own clothes.  Last year, I separated her "camp clothes" from her "everyday clothes".  I give her a number of items to pick out, say eight shirts and shorts.  Who cares if she doesn't match? Add in a jacket and some pants, just in case.

BEDDING


Our family usually sleeps in ENO's or Hennessy Hammocks. ( Check out the Alpine Shop for deals ) We purchased bug nets to keep the bugs away while we sleep, and tarps in case of rain.  All we need are a couple of trees and we can use our car as a tie off.  In bad weather, we use a tent or we  sleep in the car.  The hammocks are the best choice since they set up in minutes and double as chairs. I sleep better in my ENO than in our Sleep Number.  No kidding.

Ready to roll

My next post will tell you where we ended up and what we did when we got there.  In six days I did NOT hear "I am bored".  In my eyes, that equals success.  Feel free to ask any questions in the comment section  below or send it to my email.

Before I go, I want to leave you with a giggle..... Before we leave I shower, shampoo, and shave since I will not be doing these things until we return.  I must have been in a real hurry because I missed shaving under my right arm.  It was hilarious when I put my swimsuit on for our first swim.  It goes without saying, that was the first thing I rectified when we returned home.

Happy Camping,

Wendy

Have Questions About Camping With Kids?

My husband  and I just returned from a six day adventure with our six year old. I have had many parents ask me " how do you do it".  I am putting together a few blogs about our experiences and would like to provide as much information as possible.

  In order to do that, I need your assistance.  So, here's your chance to ask me anything and everything about camping with your child/children.  I will try to incorporate your questions into my posts.

 Don't be shy.... ask me anything.  Leave me a comment or send me an email.  I hope to have my first post up by Monday. Have a great weekend. Get outside!

Quality Time

A last minute sitter afforded my husband and I some much needed time together.  We try to get one weekend a month alone together.  These outings help us stay connected and remind us that our relationship is important too.  Being parents is great, being ourselves is awesome.

It was still a stifling 102 degrees at 630pm this past Tuesday evening.  We stopped at QT and picked up a cold, frothy beverage to enjoy on our hike at Lewis and Clark.   We covered ourselves in bug spray and  entered the trail to find it a pleasant 10 degrees cooler.  We were still going to sweat a ridiculous amount, which was better than sitting on the couch.

I love that my other half and I share an active lifestyle.  When we can't be together, we support each others solo journeys.

A Trail Monster is always prepared

The Lewis and Clark trail is about 15 minutes from our house. This trail system offers a five or an eight mile option.  We had planned a bike ride for the following day so five miles would suffice.

On my right

On my left

We reached the special overlook spot as the sun went down. Jim had carried our ENO hammocks but we decided against hanging them. It was just too hot.  After enjoying a couple brews, we headed out.  We reached the car at 10pm.

The following day, July 4th, we awakened early to beat the heat and get a ride in.  We were on our cross bikes by 730am and in the woods a short while later.  We are fortunate to live close to several trails, single track and gravel.

Katy trail bound

Shady Kona's

Not even the pinch flat I had at mile 10 could ruin our day.  We hit the Katy Trail after riding some at Busch Wildlife.  We had high hopes of catching up and enjoying a beer with friends, who were doing another ride.  There were many people out taking advantage of the cooler morning temp. We rode to Matson and then headed back to Defiance.  

It turns out the two bars were closed for the day, which was probably good since the temps were climbing quickly and we needed to be home by 1pm.  We reached our neighborhood by 1230pm with 35 miles under our belt.  Not a bad day.

We finished up the holiday by grilling some veggies and enjoying a Raspberry Hefewiezen Ale by Schlafly.

Yummy!

What a fun and healthy holiday!  What did you do?