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I actually got out of the house!!! - 11/18/2008 7:19:48 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Ezekiel 22:30 "I looked for someone to stand up for me against all this, to repair the defenses of the city, to take a stand for me and stand in the gap to protect this land so I wouldn't have to destroy it. I couldn't find anyone. Not one.” Deuteronomy 30:16 “For I command you this day to love the LORD your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the LORD your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.”
It’s very cold here. The wind chill was 17° when I got up. Yikes! That’s not normal for Georgia. Must be ‘global warming’ (ROLLING MY EYES AT AL GORE).
Gracious! I haven’t accomplished much today. The daycare child has thrown up all day. There’s a very bad tummy virus in town and I assume she’s picked it up somewhere. Church, probably. It was a long day.
My mother will be here early on Wednesday. She won’t stay long so she can check into the hotel at the hospital in Birmingham. Only a few more visits and her dental work will be completed. It will have taken almost 2 years.
My plan is to ‘fall clean’ our bedroom so I can move a chair out of the living room and then put up my white tree with purple balls in the bedroom. It’s such a gorgeous tree. I enjoy the holidays so very much. I’ll get that started tomorrow afternoon.
I’ve finished all the Christmas shopping I plan to do. Nothing for the grown kids, just the ‘real’ kids. Jim would love to make a list and would expect huge and expensive presents. We haven’t been able to do that for a few years. I don’t miss it. All I want for Christmas is the same thing I ask for each year. SNOW. I have to wrap and ship the presents, but will do that next week when I’ll have transportation. Jim will be home all week except for a doctor’s appointment. I just read that only 31% of people have started shopping for Christmas so guess I’m way ahead.
That being said, I may just spend a little on gag type gifts. That’s fun. There’s a great store in town that buys stores that have gone bankrupt, etc. They’ll have really nice things and all are $1.00 or less. I’m talking John Deere Lunchboxes…… $1.00. I used to buy lots of items and sell them on Ebay but got out of the habit when they were short on some of those type things. Then it got to where I just didn’t have enough extra cash to do it. It’s fun, tho!
The doctor’s appointment is with an eye specialist. It’s very important to have regular and extensive eye exams when skin cancer is a concern. We’re being pro-active.
I got out of the house yesterday! Yep! When Jim got home at 7:45, we went to Wal-Mart and walked around for 46 minutes! I’m so spoiled. Jim was looking at the $5.00 DVD’s and I wandered off. He had a hard time finding me. I promised him that I suffer from Stockholm Syndrome and did not approach anyone, asking for help to get away from my captor. He didn’t think that was very funny. Shucks… I can go weeks without ever going anywhere!! Send me a car! Please! As long as it runs!! LOLOL
I think we should invent some flip down gutter system that will allow people to permanently install Christmas lights. A quick flip of the switch would lower the flap which would hold lights of your choosing. No need to climb ladders or hang from the roof. I’m thinking I might just get Jon to put up Christmas lights for us this year. We haven’t put them up in several years because Jim’s not able to climb a 3 story ladder. The peaks on our house don’t have gutters so he can’t use on of the contraptions they’re selling now.
We really don’t like late basketball practice. Last year, at the other school, practice times rotated so the girls and boys didn’t have early or late practice all the time. Jim didn’t get a say in practice times and maybe the other coaches work late. I don’t know but it ruins our evenings, Monday through Thursday. I sure hope baseball practice is right after school!
There’s some new shows on tonight, so I’ll have something to do. I’m trying not to go to bed quite as early. Last night I stayed up til 10:30 and slept well all night. I had a hard time getting up.
Have a lovely evening and keep warm!
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Next Stop Paradise
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Still decorating the house - 11/24/2008 5:53:56 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Proverbs 24:3 “It takes wisdom to build a house, and understanding to set it on a firm foundation.” Psalms 133:3 “Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the LORD has pronounced His blessing, even life everlasting.” Psalm 145:13-16 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
LAST THURSDAY: And how are YOU this fine day? I had a catastrophe to clean up early this morning. The shelves I’d put all my travel brochures on didn’t have the base on the bottom and it leaned over in the closet, dumping brochures to the side. I had to take the base off another of the shelves down in our garage and then remove hundreds of pounds of brochures. Once I did that, I put the base on, put it back in the closet and put all the brochures back on the shelves. Oh my aching back!
While I was doing that, I set aside many of my brochures to share with some friends tonight. I cannot take them one of everything. I did that for my mother and they filled a good sized box that weighed almost 40 lbs!!
I had a travel training on Family Travel and Food and Wine Travels today. I’m working really hard, studying and am slowly building up my bookings. If I can just get people to check out my site to see it’s all inclusive! Hope you’ll give me a chance to book your travels. Even a simple airline ticket will pay me a small commission while saving you the $15.00 fee for calling in to the airlines.
Psalm 77:14 says, “You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples.”
I’m so glad this is Thursday! Only one week until Thanksgiving. I haven’t bought my turkey yet. We’d looked earlier and could only find smaller birds. We like Butterball and always get a 28 – 30 lb bird. I may have to drive across town to the Publix or even go to Carrollton to shop.
MONDAY NOV. 24th: Wow, I have been busy and haven’t even thought about writing in my blog.
We have hit a couple of stores and the largest turkey we’ve been able to find was 21 lbs. We bought it but will keep looking! That’s pretty small for so many people, left-over’s and homemade soups.
Nick spent the weekend at a friend’s house. I really miss him when he’s gone for a few days. Jim’s been very busy doing his college school work. With coaching sports, he gets home so late at night that he has to use his Saturday and Sunday just doing his course work. The sooner he finishes, the sooner we’ll triple our income.
Wow, there are so many great deals on cruises and trips right now! I have some people considering the Big Band 10 night cruise to the Caribbean out of Ft. Lauderdale. You cannot beat a 10 night / all inclusive cruise for $899.00 on the MSC Lirica.
DRAT! The head coach called basketball practice Monday – Wednesday from 5 til 7. That cuts into our Thanksgiving vacation time. Maybe a lot of the boys won’t be able to come on Wednesday and it’ll just be tonight and tomorrow.
Jim and I went to vote today. We took turns sitting with the daycare child in the car. She’s entered the terrible two’s with a bang and the office where we had to go to vote was packed. Voting in the run-off is this coming Dec. 2nd but it’s hard for Jim to get home during poll hours.
Tomorrow I’m taking Nick for HIS flu shot. We’ve gotten ours already. Nick’s not fussing about it this year. I think having the toe surgery and getting 7 or 8 shots in his toe eased his fears.
Nick’s friend came home with him late this afternoon. He’s a great kid from a superb family. They live way up in the subdivision and there’s a huge group of kids up there. Nick’s been riding his bike up there to play. His friend is a little younger but has an older brother and sister. He’s pretty mature for his age and Nick’s not like the average public school teenager, since he’s never been in public school. They play very well together. I really like the parents, too.
Our granddaughters are with their mom almost every day now so I get to talk to them all the time. Kaylee LOVES ‘my Grandpa in Georgia’ and wants to marry him in two years. She’s 5. Eden is very creative and loves to tell us about her projects. I wish we lived closer so we could watch them grow up. I really know very little about our grandson. His parents are so busy and don’t update us often. I know he loves sports, Matchbox cars and Nascar. They also live far away. He’ll be 6 in January.
All our Christmas presents are purchased and have arrived. I have to wrap them and mail them sometime this week. No sense waiting til the last minute and worrying that they won’t arrive in time. Last year our grandson’s birthday present arrived a few days late. One granddaughter’s arrived the day after her Sunday birthday. I’d rather they be really early than late!
Jon came over early this morning. He and his family will come here for Thanksgiving. Scooter loves Jon. He met him at the front door. I hadn’t seen him for more than a week. We usually see them once a week at least.
I won’t have the daycare child again until next Monday. I forgot to tell the mom that we have a sit down dinner Christmas party that night so I need to be out of here by 5:30 at the latest. I’m sure they can work it out. Anyhow, I’m thankful for the time off. Baby has been sick on and off for 3 or 4 weeks and she was quite whiny today. I’ve caught her cold, tho I tend to snap right out of things like a cold. I woke Sunday morning with a sore throat and stuffed up head. Today I only have a little nasal congestion.
Jim and I got our Christmas tree up in our bedroom this weekend. I bought some new deep purple glass balls at Hobby Lobby for half price. The tree is white (green and white actually) and is decorated with the purple balls, pearl and jewel garland, silver ‘Christmas’ ornaments Rev. Jack Peeler had given me a few years ago and a white angel. I also have some dried flowers and berries, all in shades of purples, stuck in the tree. It’s a very formal tree and quite lovely.
The living room tree comes next. I’ll vacuum the corner well and move the stereo speakers over a bit so we can get the tree started. It’s a huge tree. It’s 8 foot tall and very big around. We bought it for a HUGE living room up north. I’m not sure how many of our trees we’ll put up this year. I have one for our rec room, one for Nick’s bedroom, a small one for another area and a white metal one for outside. Nick isn’t interested in moving furniture for the tree in his room, so that one may not go up this year. You can never have too many Christmas decorations! (Well, I guess you CAN since we left a huge home to move here and I have to choose things each year to NOT put up.)
Hmmmm….. what should I eat for supper? Jim’s gone to practice and Nick’s friend is very picky. He only eats Hot Dogs and Pizza. We DO have some Pepperoni Pizza Hot Pockets so he might just be in luck!
Have a lovely evening. Get those presents wrapped so there’s no last minute rush!
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Won $100.00 - 12/2/2008 6:47:58 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Psalms 37:23-25 The steps of the godly are directed by the LORD. He delights in their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand. Once I was young, and now I am old, yet I have never seen the godly forsaken, nor seen their children begging for bread.
Luke 1:49 "For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name
Romans 8:32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Philippians 2:5-7 “Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not demand and cling to his rights as God. He made himself nothing; he took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form.”
This portion is from Tuesday, Nov. 25th!
We found some large turkeys today. It took a visit to several stores but we found a big selection of turkeys around 25 lbs in size at Wal-Mart. We bought two of them. We now have two frozen turkeys in our freezer. The smaller one and another 24 lb turkey. The 3rd is thawing for Thanksgiving. I am so very thankful we found larger birds.
Wednesday (tomorrow) we’ll go ahead and make the pies and some Hard Molasses Cookies. That makes Thanksgiving a little less rushed. I’m really looking forward to our feast!
We took Nick for his flu shot today. There was a bit of a line so we had over an hour wait. Once he was called back, it took less than 5 minutes start to finish. I’m glad that’s done. Jim cannot take a chance on getting sick. I feel like Nick and I have to be protected because of church and the daycare child. She picks up everything from church and her school-aged sisters. We don’t need to get sick and expose Jim.
I didn’t sleep really well last night. Nick had a friend sleep over and they were up really late. I had to get on to them about 12:45. They were in the kitchen making chocolate milk and snacks and were talking quite loudly. One quick word reminded them we were trying to sleep, but I was awake for quite a bit after that. Scooter woke me at 7:00 a.m. He doesn’t understand holidays and weekends. Any time I try to sleep past 7:00, he does one of his little ‘sharp’ sounding barks. Once I get up, he goes right back to sleep! It doesn’t matter how late he’s awake at night. Come 7:00 a.m., he’s going to wake me up.
December 1st:
The daycare baby is VERY sick. She sounds like she has croup. Poor kid. She catches everything that goes around, it seems. I think she’ll be so immune by time she goes to public school that she’ll never get sick. Meanwhile, she is very fussy, wanting ‘Mommie’ and the coughing must hurt her chest. She pushes on it when she coughs.
Tonight is our first Christmas Party of the year. It’s at Jim’s work. It starts at 6:00. I’m looking forward to it. I have a new green sweater to wear with some dress pants. I haven’t chosen my jewelry yet. I’ve got a lot of Christmas pins to choose from.
Speaking of parties, we have a lot this year! They should all be a lot of fun, too. We’re also going Christmas Caroling with a group from our church. It’s not a church function, just a group from church going to all the local nursing homes. We’d planned on going 2 nights, but our Sunday School Christmas party for the 9th graders is on one of the nights.
Jim’s visit to the eye doctor was okay. There is no sign of melanoma, which is a giant blessing. He does have Age Related Macular Degeneration (dry) in one eye but it’s slight and is not yet affecting his vision. That’s the condition where a person eventually loses central vision. It would be like looking at a face and seeing the hair and background but the face would be a black spot. There is no treatment for ARMD yet.
I just feel that God has been so very good to us. I decided to go through our closets and find items never used or seldom used and pass them on. I gave away sheets and towels to a no kill shelter, a stroller to a 3 legged puppy, a card game, Pack ‘n Play, puzzles, and a lot more just today.
Tuesday Dec. 2nd.
Jim was sick during the night so stayed home today. The daycare baby was home sick with mom, so it was pretty quiet around here today. I took a nap. I’d lost a little sleep because of Jim getting up and down.
We played games at the Christmas party last night. I won $10.00. Jim won $100.00!! That was neat!
We finished decorating for Christmas. I do have a few snowmen that go al around the house that I’ve not put in place yet. We’re watching Polar Express. I’ll finish it all tomorrow.
It’s pretty cold here for Georgia. I saw a homeless man with two dogs tonight and stopped to wish him Merry Christmas and give him money for supper. I’ll never pass another homeless person without thinking of the Burger King Angel I met the year after my brother had been killed.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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How am I going to pull THIS off? LOL - 12/4/2008 8:50:39 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Oh I’m so glad Friday is approaching! I have a lot of things I need to get done this weekend. I have socks to pick up for the homeless and clothing plus baby items to pick up for a needy family. Gosh I wish I had a car!
Monday is going to be a nightmare! I have my dental cleaning and have to take the 2 year old with me. I have NO idea how I’m going to get her to sit quietly in the exam room while I’m having x-rays and cleaning. I’m afraid Nanston Dental Group is going to kick me out! I’ve taken her before, but she was younger and not so rambunctious. YIKES!
I made homemade Turkey Vegetable Soup today and boy was it good. I’ve got a huge pot of it so we’ll eat off of it for a few days. My soups are always like stew. I tend to really pack in the veggies and meats.
My Christmas decorations are all in place now. My only problem is the spotlight on my outside décor blew the outside trip switch because of all the rain. The plugs were not in really well and all this moisture! Wish it were SNOW!
Less than three weeks until Christmas! Wow! My shopping is done for all our family and packages are all mailed. I do have some shopping to do for an adopted family our youth workers are sponsoring. Maybe a group of us will go together this weekend. That would be fun. I’m sure Toys R Us will have what we need.
I had three women coming to pick up things off Freecycle today and all stood me up. The weather is very icky, tho. No problem. I’m sure they’ll come tomorrow.
Jim’s almost finished with his school except math courses and student teaching. WGU won’t transfer any course that is your ‘major’ so none of his university math transfers. He says that’s probably a good thing since he was in college 40 years ago. Does math really change?
We have so many friends who have very serious needs. Would you pray for our friends needs to be met? Finances. Jobs. Hubby in Iraq. Illness. Depression. Marriage problems. The list goes on and God knows the names.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Ranting today - 12/7/2008 4:28:30 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Habakkuk 3:17 -19 Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls-- Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer's feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills. 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
My Goodness, it’s cold here for November.
Sort of a lazy Sunday. Jim cooked pork chops on the grill for lunch. He also repaired the stopper part (what IS that called?) in Nick’s bathroom sink while I watched some Christmas DIY shows.
We had a lot of kids in youth today and many of them were very excitable. Nuff said.
I’m hoping we got the dentist situation figured out. The daycare child’s mom is taking the two older sisters to the dental office just down the street from where I’m going a few minutes earlier than my appointment. I’ve asked her to take the baby with her and drop her off with me after they finish. Maybe it’ll work out that I’m already finished by time she arrives. I’m very concerned about trying to have her sit in a chair next to me. She’s danger girl! Meanwhile, I’ll drive Jim to school tomorrow morning so I have transportation. Oh how I’d love to have a junk car that would get me here and there! I don’t think it’s wrong to want a clunker just good enough to get me to Bible Study or Wednesday night youth group, do you? It’s not like I want a new car or a fancy car. I do not want to keep up with the wealthy people in town, just very basic transportation that is safe enough to get me to church, the library, grocery store.
Matthew 6:19-20 "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
ACK! I hate football! Jim finished the sink and took over the t.v. again. We have only one DirecTV receiver so what one watches, everyone watches. I guess I could put a movie on in the bedroom. I’ve already watched a lot of our Christmas movies. We have a few that are partially metal! Yep! That old! It’s a Wonderful Life and How the Grinch Stole Christmas are both very old VHS tapes. I need to buy them on DVD someday. What’s your favorite holiday movie? I like so many of them.
Tomorrow after lunch I’m to pick up some socks for the homeless and clothing for a needy family in town. Several people through church have already brought socks. If things go as well as previous years, I should be able to supply 400 pairs of socks. Hope so. We complain about being chilly in the house because of having to keep our heating bill down, wearing 3 pair of socks…. While there are those who have no shelter. No homes.
Yesterday was my Father’s 81st birthday. Amazing, isn’t it?
I’ll pick up Jim after school. Actually, his mentor will call him at school at 3:15 so I won’t need to be there right away. They talk every other week just to make sure he doesn’t have any concerns. He’s moving along. He’ll have his certification pretty soon! He’d waited too long to use his military GI Bill for college but God has been good to us. He was drafted and had already attended college when he went in the service. He paid for college, back 40 years ago, by working part time jobs and scholarships. It took me years to pay off my college loan. Actually, Jim paid it off. :0) I think kids who get a free ride, with mom and dad paying for school, don’t appreciate the opportunity or work as hard in most cases. They fall for the sales pitch of some ‘chef’ school or ‘design school’ and waste huge amounts of money for nothing. First, get a plan. Nick knows he’ll have to pay his own way to college. He can get a scholarship through the state as long as he keeps his grades up but will have to live at home and supply his own transportation.
I’m off on a tangent because of a conversation I had earlier.
Well, I’m bored to DEATH so think I’ll find something to do. Have a great week!
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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It shouldn't rain in winter! SNOW! Give me snow! - 12/9/2008 6:17:01 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Corinthians 4:8-9, 16-18 "We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed… Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" 2 1 Peter 5:6-7 “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” Philippians 4:4-8 “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy; meditate on these things” Romans 15:13 "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit"
Are you having a nice week? I’m just bored.
We’re expecting quite a bit of rain, starting late today. Thursday may have some wintry mix. That would be nice. I have no plans. In fact, until a Christmas party next Monday, I have nothing to do and no place to go.
I went to the dentist on Monday. One of their hygienists was out so we got worked in slowly. It took hours and hours, but I got my teeth cleaned. I’m still waiting to hear back. The dentist thought she saw a shadow but wasn’t sure. She wanted the senior dentist to look at my x-rays. I prefer to be overly cautious because a previous ‘keep an eye on the shadow’ ended up with an abscess and huge bills. This is a back molar and I’d never waste money on a root canal and crown for a back tooth. Our insurance only pays 50% of major work, and there is no way we could pay the other half. We’ll see. My dentist was supposed to call me sometime this afternoon and let me know. She didn’t call, tho.
Jim is horribly busy this week. Each day he has basketball practice with games on Thursday and Saturday. Tuesday night, tonight, is a concert and he’s taping it (burning CD’s) for the school. Thursday night is another concert at another school. There’s also one next week. He’s going to do all three, I think. It’s hard because he gets out of school and has an hour or so in between. He has college courses to squeeze in, too. Tonight basketball practice was moved to an earlier time because of the concert so Jim couldn’t even come home to eat. He enjoys it, tho, and likes helping.
I won movie passes to see The Day the Earth Stood Still on the IMAX in Atlanta this Thursday night. Needless to say, we can’t go. Shucks! Of course, I didn’t know the tickets would only be good in Atlanta when I entered the contest. I never win anything! Maybe my luck is changing. The lottery is $170 million tonight. If I had a way to get to the store…. I had to show ID to pick up the tickets, in Atlanta, so can’t even give them away.
I hope Jim calls home between basketball and the concert so I can remind him to stop and get lottery tickets!
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Merry Christmas - 12/24/2008 4:17:07 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Merry Christmas to all!
I didn’t realize it’s been 3 weeks since I last blogged. I knew it had been a while. I’ve not felt well. Menopause has presented some new discomforts that just left me down and out quite a lot. I was sailing through menopause until BOOM, four years after my last cycle…. Hot flashes and lots more.
We’re ready for a quiet Christmas. We always let Nick open a present on Christmas Eve to take some of the edge off the wait. That pleases him. Jim and I don’t exchange gifts due to finances.
I cooked a huge dinner for Thanksgiving and much of the food went to waste. I’m scaling down for Christmas. Not so many different dishes. I’ve decided I can always add a dish on ‘left-over’ days if I want. The pies are made and the turkey is thawing. We’re not going to get up early to get it in the oven, either. Who cares if we eat at 2:00 or 4:00? Not I!
I have off until January 5th, as does Jim. I’m going to take advantage of that time off and sleep as late as I want, nap whenever I feel like it and try to find things I enjoy doing and do them.
We’ve had several Christmas parties and really enjoyed them. I got a Snowman Cookie Jar at one and a boy in my Sunday School class got me a Yankee Candle electric tart warmer that matches my house perfectly.
My mother loved the Christmas present I sent her. I’m so glad! I can never find anything she doesn’t have or really wants but this year she mentioned something to me and I pre-ordered it before it was in stores. Saved money and got the perfect gift!
My 'socks for the homeless' drive is going very well. I've also gotten some great sweaters and jackets. A local family with 3 boys and a baby due any minute was brought to my attention. Email pleas brought in 7 HUGE bags of clothing, brand new toys and shoes. Charity is alive and well in America.
It’s just too warm here. I know I should be thankful because that’ll help with heating bills, but I really, really, really miss the snow. It doesn’t even feel like Christmas.
I turn 58 on Monday, Dec. 29th. Nick turns 14 that day. He’s excited about his birthday and is surprised I’m not excited about turning 58. I certainly don’t feel 58. I don’t know if I look it or not. I still think of myself as mid 30’s.
I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas!
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
< Message edited by dianetavegia -- 12/24/2008 6:04:41 PM >
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Monday is my birthday - 12/28/2008 1:28:21 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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"That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
Colossians 2:2-3
"And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven." Colossians 1:20
Have you recovered from Christmas day? Do you have plans for New Years?
We have a tradition in the south of black eyed peas and collards on New Year’s Day to represent the pennies and dollars we’ll have during the coming year. I’m already prepared. Some years I’ve waited too late and had trouble finding the items. Also, we’ll have shrimp. We love shrimp.
I’ve not had an appetite for a couple of months. I have morning sickness much of the day, several days a week. Nope. Not pregnant. Menopause! Also, each hot flash is preceded by a horrible bout of nausea. Even the thought or smell of food can make me deathly ill. I am drinking loads of water and eating crackers. It’s amazing what they haven’t told us about menopause! It makes sense, tho. Morning sickness is caused by a change in hormones, as is the nausea during menopause. I sure hope this doesn’t last years! That’s just one of my new complaints. EEK NO FUN!! I hope my hormones level a bit and these new complaints lessen. I honestly feel like I’ve lost a month or so of my life just not feeling well. I have felt better the last four or so days, tho. The hot flashes are not so severe and I’ve been able to eat again.
Only 1 day until our birthday. Nick wants cupcakes. That suits me just fine because I probably won’t be eating them. Jim doesn’t care, as long as there’s cake. I don’t want to gain weight! I’m a little less than I was after the six month weight challenge that started last January. Well within what the doctor considers a healthy weight for my height.
We didn’t sleep well Friday night. We went to bed about 10:00 and I fell asleep around 11:00. At 2:00, the dog was barking like crazy and wouldn’t calm down. A repo man was at a neighbor’s house and there were people in the street having discussions with him. Flashing lights, voices, dogs barking, etc. I didn’t get back to sleep until around 5:00 and then was up by 8:30. Last night I watched t.v. until almost 1:00 and wasn’t too happy when the clock went off at 7:30.
I’m so glad Jim gave up cooking for Sunday School. We don’t have to go so very early. We live only 2 minutes from church so we don’t leave here until about 8:55.
Speaking of Sunday School, our attendance was really down today. The kids who were there all had colds and talked about horrible stomach viruses they’d had or their family had this past week.
My mother sent me some birthday money. It won’t be here until Monday and I don’t know what I’ll do with it. I don’t know how much she sent, either. I think it’ll be fun just to get out and look around, even if I don’t buy anything. I want to go to Hobby Lobby.
We got Nick a BMX bike for his birthday. We gave it to him early because of the warm weather. Also, we’d let him choose the bike. He really needs shirts. I think I’ll find him some tomorrow. When he was dressing for church, we realized he’s too long and tall for his men’s size small dress shirts or long sleeved polo and pull over shirts. He’s thin but so very tall. Jon just gave him 10 pair of super nice pants and he can still wear the jeans we got him last year because we got them a little long. He’s in 32” X 32” now. What a good boy he is, too. Oh, he’ll try to get out of doing math some days, but he doesn’t talk back or demand. He’s kind and helpful. A real blessing.
I’ll try to remember to get Jim to take a picture of me and Nick tomorrow. We took one together on our birthday last year. It’ll be interesting to see how much we’ve changed.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Cancer is a four letter word! - 1/3/2009 8:52:11 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Flying Free
There is a place I call my own
Where I can stand by the sea,
And look beyond the things I've known ,
And dream that I might be free.
Like the bird above the trees
Gliding gently on the breeze,
I wish that all my life I'd be
Without a care and flying free!
But life is not a distant sky
Without a cloud, without rain.
And I can never hope that I
Can travel on without pain
Time goes swiftly on its way,
All too soon we've lost today.
I cannot wait for skies of blue
Or dream so long that life is through.
So life's a song that I must sing,
A gift of love I must share .
And when I see the joy it brings,
My spirits soar through the air.
Like that bird up in the sky ,
Life has taught me how to fly.
For now I know what I can be
And now my heart is flying free!
You can hear the tune to the above song here:
http://kids.niehs.nih.gov/lyrics/flyingfree.htm
The doctor says I have colon cancer. In 14 years, only 2 of the tumors he's seen like this have NOT been cancer. I'd like to be #3.
Please keep me in prayer.
Today we took down our Christmas trees. I'll be unable to lift and do many things for a while after my surgery this Wednesday so I thought it was better to get it done now.
I feel GREAT. Other than the distended tummy, you'd never know I'm 'sick'. I've never been sick in my life. A cold. An ear infection. Nothing else. I have been blessed.
We also went to Hobby Lobby and got a wrought iron, reddish colored, toilet paper holder and towel bar. I'd gotten two hand towel racks to match a few weeks ago. Lovely and only $4.00 each. I love Hobby Lobby.
We've done laundry and other chores. Jim and Nick have been great.
I'm only allowed to have liquids because nothing can get past the tumor. Boring! I'm losing weight but would rather have done it another way.
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Surgeon on Monday - 1/4/2009 6:28:44 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 1 Corinthians 15: 12 – 19 Now, let me ask you something profound yet troubling. If you became believers because you trusted the proclamation that Christ is alive, risen from the dead, how can you let people say that there is no such thing as a resurrection? If there's no resurrection, there's no living Christ. And face it - if there's no resurrection for Christ, everything we've told you is smoke and mirrors, and everything you've staked your life on is smoke and mirrors. Not only that, but we would be guilty of telling a string of barefaced lies about God, all these affidavits we passed on to you verifying that God raised up Christ - sheer fabrications, if there's no resurrection. If corpses can't be raised, then Christ wasn't, because he was indeed dead. And if Christ wasn't raised, then all you're doing is wandering about in the dark, as lost as ever. It's even worse for those who died hoping in Christ and resurrection, because they're already in their graves. If all we get out of Christ is a little inspiration for a few short years, we're a pretty sorry lot.
I didn’t go to church today. I feel fine, but I don’t want to have to repeat my saga 100 times. People ask questions that only leave me with questions and questions I cannot answer. Repeating things, explaining symptoms and hearing about Aunt Suzie’s bout with colon cancer are not for me right now. I’m focusing on positive and happy thoughts. So, I slept in a bit late instead.
Our daughter is here from Connecticut. She’ll stay through Friday. Her boss is an old friend of mine and he quickly told her to take all the time she needs. Her ex-in-laws are helping with the girls. I really appreciate all they are doing and their constant prayers for me! Thanks, Linda and Ray.
I’m so hungry! This liquid diet is a bummer. Yogurt and soup broth. I did get me some Chicken Gumbo and drink the broth from that. At least it’s not the same taste every ‘meal’. What a way to lose weight! I don’t recommend it. I look really good, tho. Hubby follows me around with that look in his eyes. YIKES! LOLOL Down, boy!
I just really needed something to chew, so I got some butter mints at the dollar store. They really melt in your mouth but it does satisfy that desire for something other than liquids.
Wit makes its own welcome, and levels all distinctions. No dignity, no learning, no force of character, can make any stand against good wit. - Ralph Waldo Emerson 
We went to the dump, the dollar store and tonight, to Wal-Mart. I need to keep my mind busy so I don’t think of upcoming things.
Romans 8:28-30 “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren.”
Please remember me in prayer this week. Monday is the appointment with the surgeon and Tuesday is the CAT scans. I assume surgery is Wednesday. That’s what I was led to understand. That’s all I know for now. I am scared.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Some general info on my last week - 1/12/2009 2:44:12 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 1 Peter 2:12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us
Where to start? Maybe I’ll just ramble today and decide what I want to explain or share later.
Timeline: December 31st Jim got me an emergency appointment with a gastroenterologist. On January 2nd, I had an emergency colonoscopy. I was told then that I had a tumor and in 14 years, the doctor had only seen 2 that were not cancer. My visit with the surgeon was within minutes of us calling him on Monday. The gastro had called him during my colonoscopy and told him what he’d found. Tuesday I had my pre-op / admission to the hospital and four CT Scans. Wednesday afternoon was my surgery. 42 hours later, I was discharged and in the car heading home.
I’ve been home from the hospital since Friday morning. My colon cancer surgery was late Wednesday afternoon. I’m so thankful that I can eat normally again and all my pain and discomfort is gone. I know a lot of you are wondering what symptoms I had that led to me discovering colon cancer. If you’d like details, send me a note. Honestly, even a web search for the symptoms never brought up colon cancer.
It’s very weird to say I had cancer. To go from being sick one minute to well the next ……… I have one teeny spot where a pin head needle hole was left and five spots with staples. I tease and say I had my navel pierced. I have two staples just above my navel where they inserted the camera. I’ll be glad when the staples are out. They catch on my clothing! One spot split open a bit so is scabbing and taking its time closing up. I’m sure I pulled it when reaching for a coffee cup the first day home. I don’t ‘do’ sick well at all and am not one to sit around. In fact, the day after I got home, we went all over, shopping and window shopping. The walking is very good for me! My post op visit is Wednesday morning and I’ll get my staples out then.
Our oldest son got here in time for my surgery. He came from Baltimore. Only our 32 year old son knew he was coming so we were all surprised. My mother was here from Alabama by Monday evening. Our daughter had gotten here from Connecticut the day before. We went from a house of 3 people to 10 within hours. It was wonderful to have all four of our children together even tho the circumstances were not the most enjoyable.
We went to church on Sunday and sat near the back in case I needed to go out. My mother, our local son and his wife, our daughter and the three of us went. Our daughter hasn’t been in church in years unless it’s when she’s visiting us. My mother doesn’t attend regularly either.
My mother is staying with me for the rest of the week and maybe longer, if I were to need her. The plan right now is for her to leave Thursday morning. She’s 76 and fit as a fiddle. What a blessing! I had to return to doing daycare right away. We cannot exist without the income. The hospital made us pay our yearly deductible and co-pay up front and each doctor and one procedure took co-pays. Can you spell BROKE?
Jim had a note in his mailbox at school today. He has already been asked to return to the same school next year. What a blessing! I’m so glad they love him and appreciate all his efforts.
A young boy Jim coached last year accidentally killed himself last week playing ‘the choking game’. He was only 12. Very, very sad.
I could call this afternoon to get the biopsy results but doctor said he might not be there to explain them. There’ll be info on the type tumor and other stuff including whether it was in my lymph nodes. Dr. said, as he was discharging me, ‘You’re fine. I’m not concerned.’ Neither am I. I’m so thankful God heard our prayers and kept me safe during this time.
Jim will be home right after school and we’ll eat an early supper so he can go back to school for basketball practice. Tonight Mother and I are going to Joanne’s Fabrics to find some remnants for me to make new kitchen curtains to match some things she’s bought me recently. Should be so much fun! They have wonderful bolts of high quality material at $1.00 a yard! Fun!
Have a blessed evening and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Chemo in Feb. - 1/14/2009 8:03:35 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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1 Peter 5:2-4 Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
"You will call to Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart." -Jeremiah 29:12-13
I saw the surgeon today. I had some cancer cells in 5 lymph nodes out of 14 or 17. I’m very disappointed but he assures me this is still 100% curable. I have an appointment with the oncologist on Jan. 27th at 12:45. Chemo won’t start until I’m fully healed from the surgery so probably late February. Please keep praying for my healing!
The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Thursday Jan. 15th - 1/15/2009 2:39:31 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 James 1:2-8 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. 2 Corinthians 3:18 “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another." Psalms 13:4-6 “Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, “We have defeated him!” Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall. But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to the LORD because he is good to me.” Joshua 1:8-9 “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.
Happy 6th Birthday Jackson! I hope you like your presents!
My mom had to go to Birmingham for the day to her dentist. If they can rush a fitting, she may stay overnight and see him again on Friday. She’s going to stay with me until I have my oncology consult and then she’ll go home for a few weeks until my chemo begins. We assume it will be after Feb. 20th because they allow you to heal from the surgery before starting chemo. That would be six weeks. It’s so nice having her here and I find comfort in her presence.
I’m making some new curtains for my kitchen. Mother and I found some beautiful material earlier in the week at Jo-Ann’s and I’ve got them cut and pinned. We went out yesterday and Mother found a mat for in front of my sink that matches both my ‘farm’ border and the curtain colors. It looks so pretty! I’m planning on sewing the curtains today. My machine stays set up in the rec room downstairs so I won’t have to have anyone lift it for me. ** I have finished the curtains but can’t climb to put them up. I’ll have Jim take down the old and put up the new tonight if he has time.
Jim has an away basketball game today so he won’t be home after school. A lady from church is bringing me supper. That’s such a blessing! It’s amazing the things you can’t do when you can’t lift or reach, etc. Other than soreness in my abdominal area , I’m not in any pain.
Jim is way ahead on his college courses for this term. Actually, he’s finished with two months left. He was going to open up his math courses and work on those early but we’ve decided to let it slide because our schedule is going to be hectic and draining for a while.
It’s quite cold here! Our wind chill was 12° when my mother was leaving today. It’ll be near zero later. Scooter doesn’t like it cold! He's on the sofa but covered up in this photo!
I’m working on memorizing a passage of scripture each day. Not a verse, but a passage. It’s not as easy as it was before. My mind tends to be rushing about with all sorts of thoughts since starting menopause. When Nick was in AWANA, and I was a director, we would learn verses to music. That was quite easy.
I’ve lost a bit of weight and it’s staying off. I’m down to 132lbs. I’d like to lose more and get in shape, but I don’t want to lose it by being sick from chemo or not being able to eat. That wasn’t a good way to ‘diet’!
I want my hair to be that long again. I sure hope I don’t lose my hair. I had it cut this weekend, but only about an inch. Oh well. It’ll grow back!
Have you ever heard of Aisle 19, the "cash back online shopping portal" that works with 600 retail stores such as Wal-Mart, Target, Old Navy, Macy's and many others to earn cash back on your purchases? Aisle 19 is by invitation only. If you’d like me to invite you, send your email address to tavegia at bellsouth dot net and I’ll invite you. It’s free! You earn cash back from lots of stores we already shop at! Cash is always good!
Nick has been caring for me today. For lunch I had meatloaf and a huge stuffed mushroom. He’s making me a cup of hot apple cider now. He’s such a great kid!
There’s no school on Monday or Tuesday. Jim has to go for a teacher’s work day on Tuesday, tho. We’re making cookies for the BSU group at a local college and need to have them ready by Wednesday. Jim loves to make Hard Molasses Cookies and we didn’t make any this holiday season. I think we’ll make those. I can sit and roll cookies in sugar, etc. We’ll make extra so WE can enjoy some!
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Got lots of plans for today! - 1/19/2009 7:43:47 AM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 2 Corinthians 1:7-12 We are confident that as you share in suffering, you will also share God's comfort. I think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and completely overwhelmed, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we learned not to rely on ourselves, but on God who can raise the dead. And he did deliver us from mortal danger. And we are confident that he will continue to deliver us. He will rescue us because you are helping by praying for us. As a result, many will give thanks to God because so many people's prayers for our safety have been answered. We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have been honest and sincere in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own earthly wisdom. That is how we have acted toward everyone, and especially toward you. Hebrews 12:28-29 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire." Proverbs 11:24 One man gives freely yet gains even more. Another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. John 15:5 "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me."
Jim says we’re having way too much fun. NOT! My mother had cancer on her arm years ago. That arm was slightly numb and she found lumps in her armpit. We got an emergency appointment with Jim’s doctor. She has Squamous Cell Carcinoma and has to have MOHS surgery on Tuesday. Good Grief! She’s taking great care of me. She won’t be able to lift, either! Oh, Nick!
I’m eating so well again. Boy am I glad doctor fixed my problem and took out those ‘sickly’ lymph nodes! Now we’ll just get that chemo to kill any wayward bad cells that might be sneaking around trying to make me sick! We’re eating very well.. YUM. We’ve had homemade lasagna, fried chicken, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and brownies, pork BBQ, baked beans, potato salad, spaghetti and baked manicotti, cookies and so much more. Our church friends brought all that. Some precious church kids made me chocolate covered pretzels. They are SO good! Our church family has been so very helpful and loving!
So, I woke this morning at 5:00 feeling GREAT. I did try to go back to sleep, but by 5:30, decided to make me a pot of my weak coffee and do some Bible Study. It’s now 7:00 a.m. and the rest of the house is still sleeping. Even the animals. I’ve been trying to memorize large passages of scripture each day and have realized I need to scale down the size to something my menopausal brain can fit in with all the hoopla going on in there. A couple of verses at a time.
I have many plans for today! I have to bag up a load of items for my ministry, ‘Socks for the Homeless’, so they can be delivered Tuesday a.m. Our church members have really been supportive of this ministry! We’re also baking cookies for the Baptist Student Union at a local college. We’re going to ‘re-do’ Nick’s bedroom so we will pick up the paint at Home Depot early this morning. I have to make another set of curtains for the kitchen. The material we’d chosen is quite stiff and it looked too sparse on the windows so I’m doubling the size. It won’t take long once I get them pinned this morning. I have to do sit down type things since I can’t lift more than 5 lbs or reach/ drive. Stupidvisor is my title. ;oÞ
Jim has off today but does have basketball practice at 5:00. We have left over pork for supper. YUM! With some fresh green beans and cauliflower, we’ll be all set!
 Phillipians 4:8-9 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
We had another good sermon in church yesterday. Some great hymns, too. Attendance seemed a little down but the weather was yucky and school is out. Actually, there was no school on Friday in our county because of the cold. I’m sure some people took advantage of the long weekend to get away.
John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
Wow Guys! I cannot TELL YOU how at peace I am! If you’ve not experienced it, I doubt you’d be able to understand this ‘peace that passes all understanding’. Thank you Jesus!
Well, I think I’ll go find something constructive to do while everyone else sleeps. It’s 7:40 and I cannot waste another minute of this glorious day!
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Mother needs more surgery! - 1/20/2009 2:19:51 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Deuteronomy 32:4 "The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He.” Matthew 5:48 "Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 16:24-25 “Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.”
I’m on a new sleep/ wake schedule. I’m not sure why, but I’m falling asleep by 10:00 and waking around 5:30 each morning. I’m sleeping really well. I cannot seem to get back to sleep nor am I tired when I wake. I think it’s because of how early it gets dark here. My body clock is off kilter. I go ahead and get up, make me some coffee and do my devotionals before anyone else is up. It’s a nice quiet time.
My mother asked me if I was ready to get rid of my ‘Little Black Sambo’ books. I hadn’t thought about them in a few years. One is autographed by the illustrator. Even without the autograph, they’re worth about $300.00 for both. I had a 45 rpm record when I was a bit older (10), but that is nowhere to be found. Anyhow, I haven’t decided. I really loved the books as a child and might just want to hang on to them. I seriously doubt the value will ever be much higher. They won’t be 100 years old until around 2045. A lot of people are insulted by the books, tho it’s a very cute story. We’d gone to several antique stores looking for military items and depression glass and saw a lot of old books. That’s what brought this up.
Mother has her surgery on her arm this morning. I sure pray it is contained in that one spot and hasn’t spread! She has Squamous Cell Carcinoma. That’s a skin cancer that can spread to organs and lymph system quite easily if not treated quickly. Laura Bush had a small spot on her shin a few years ago and is being watched for recurrence. I’ll update when I know more and before posting this, if possible. ** My mother’s surgery didn’t go well at all. Dr. did 3 procedures in the same spot and said ‘We might be dealing with something much more serious.’ Tomorrow is an ‘up to 8 hour’ MOHS surgery on the same spot. He didn’t touch the spot on the back of her leg. He said that most probably is quite serious, too. I appreciate those prayers!
I made more curtains yesterday and they’re up and looking so pretty. We also went and got paint for Nick’s bedroom. He really needs a new dresser. His is very small and doesn’t hold enough. It’s an antique but he ruined it. It would have to be refinished to be of any value. Teen aged boys and their stickers, etc. Nick wants his room to look ‘military’. He loves the History Channel and the Military Channel. He’d much rather watch a documentary on WWII than cartoons any day. We found a green paint for his walls that is an exact match to fatigues. His bed has a military type look to it already. We’ll have to change out his ceiling fan because it’s a baseball glove, ball and bats (Hunter Fan). Jim wants that one in his office. I’ll paint the white one Jim has to look like camouflage. Now we need to paint and figure out how to arrange the room. Oh, THEY need to paint. I can do some right in front of me, I guess. I can also do the fan and shelving because it can be sat on the table for me to do. No reaching or lifting yet. I scraped off the wallpaper border that didn’t pull off easily, so that’s all done.
We had everything out to make cookies last night and realized we didn’t have Baking Soda. Nick had used it in experiments for science class. It was snowing and very cold so we put that off until sometime today.
Snow. Well, we got to see some small flakes Monday night, but nothing stuck to the ground. My mother has never seen large flakes. There’s a chance of snow flurries today. Hope they’re huge! I love snow. (The photos included are NOT mine!)
I got a little ‘sad’ yesterday. We ran into someone while in a store that went on and on about chemo and surgeries they knew of. Later in the day I just felt a bit down. Had to rebuke that and refuse to dwell on anything but God’s promises and God’s love for me. I know people mean well, but long stories about so and so having such a hard time with chemo is not productive.
We’re only one paper short of having everything we need to file our taxes. I’m hoping it comes today. I got a number of the papers off the internet so we didn’t have to wait for snail mail. The money is always a major blessing to our family!
I’ve been searching companies on Aisle19 and see we can save a nice chunk on Jim’s college text books! If you want me to invite you (think Gmail), send me an email with the email addy you’d like to use and I’ll do so right away! Every penny saved is GOOD!
From the original Webster's dictionary: Patience is "the suffering of afflictions, pain, toil, calamity, provocation or other evil, with a calm, unruffled temper; endurance without murmuring or fretfulness, from a kind of heroic pride, or from a Christian submission to the divine will."
We bagged up socks and a few clothing items for the homeless yesterday and got them delivered. We had two 55 gallon yard bags filled with socks! I haven’t counted how many pair of socks we’ve had donated. I kept 40 or so pair to hand out when I come across homeless in our little town. We live near the interstate exit and see several men a week. I try to give them money for food but many times have no money. A couple pair of new, dry socks are very appreciated and that gives me a chance to witness. Thanks to all who’ve donated!
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Good report for my mother - 1/21/2009 3:58:49 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Ezekiel 36:22-23 “I am bringing you back again but not because you deserve it. I am doing it to protect my holy name, which you dishonored while you were scattered among the nations. I will show you how holy my great name is – the name you dishonored among the nations. And when I reveal my holiness through you before their very eyes, says the Sovereign Lord, then the nations will know that I am the Lord.” Psalm 90:10 "The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away". Psalm 90:4 "For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night" Check out THESE verses! Jeremiah 32:17 “'Ah Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You.” Jeremiah 32:26-27 “Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, saying, ‘Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?’" Psalms 20:4-5 “May he grant your heart’s desires and make all your plans succeed. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory and raise a victory banner in the name of our God. May the LORD answer all your prayers.” Philemon 1:4-7 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.
Happy Wednesday to you all!
I slept a bit later today. Jim woke a little after 6:00 and put the dog out for a few seconds. Once Jim got in the shower, Scooter whined at my bedroom door, wanting to come in and get in bed with me. I didn’t want him to disturb anyone else, so I got up and made me some coffee.
I drink weak coffee compared to my mother and our grown kids. I’ll make a few mugs for me and then by time my mother is up, she can make her mud coffee. ;oÞ I go through phases where I can’t tolerate anything but tea and then in the spring, I’ll drink coffee for months before going back to tea. I think it has to do with a year I had a bad chest cold and the only thing I could taste was a good cup of coffee. I drank a lot of coffee while sick with that cold. I’m weird.
My mother’s surgery on her arm went well. The 24 hour biopsy came back clear so they sewed it up. She has to have a surgery on her leg in two weeks.
I’m making Nick some new curtains first thing today. In fact, I have very little left to do. I need to just sew the rod pocket on both panels and they’re all finished. They’re a dark brown and go to the floor. We got him new sheets in dark brown and pillow cases in brown and in green. We also got a new comforter that is dark green and reverses to medium brown. ** Drapes are completed and very pretty! Now we just need to paint the walls and the shelving and he can put his things in place and begin decorating with any WWI, WWII and military things he can find. Oh, and I still have to paint the ceiling fan when Jim switches them out. That is going to be done in brown and green to look camouflaged. I’m watching for a dresser on freecycle but people are giving away real garbage right now. I may end up buying one at Wal-Mart. They do have some nice looking furniture that isn’t too expensive. I hate to spend a lot of money in a teen’s room. Nick is prone to feet on the furniture, stickers, writing down a phone number on the top of a dresser, etc. EEK! Don’t sweat small stuff!
I wrote 9 thank you cards and packaged up three college books Jim sold yesterday on Amazon. We went to the post office and got those mailed while out to pick up some antibiotics Mother needs to take for her arm.
Jon and Mary are coming for supper. We’ve having Buffalo Wings (actually legs and breasts), fresh green beans, cauliflower and hash browns. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Can it be SPRING? - 1/23/2009 1:10:17 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Photos by Laura Tomas
A perfect spring day in Georgia! We’re supposed to top out at 65°. Wow~ Hope so! It’s already 61° on my outdoor thermometer. The sky is a bright blue after a very overcast morning!
I slept until 6:00 today. I don’t mind that at all. I didn’t like waking at 5:00 but 6:00 gives me time for my devotionals and a few cups of coffee before everyone else begins to wake and the daycare toddler arrives.
The beautiful pictures on my blog today are photos taken by our Hispanic Minister’s Wife. She’s a member here, too. I didn’t realize she was such an accomplished photographer! Thanks Lori!
After supper, my mother and I went to Home Depot to get another gallon of the paint for Nick’s room. One coat isn’t covering it. He had chosen ‘Crocodile’ and it’s a beautiful color. He wants a military looking room. We also went to Dillard’s and Belk’s to look around. Mother got me the cutest pair of shoes. I’m not sure what you call them because I’m so out of it when it comes to fashion. They are suede slip on with no real ‘back’ and are surrounded with ‘fur’. Mocks? Mucs?
So, while looking at all the clothing in the stores, I came to the realization that this year’s style is a rip off of the 1960’s and 1970’s. I saw a lot of Jackie Kennedy clothing! Then there’s the HUGE pant legs reminiscent of Sonny and Cher. Baby Doll tops. Huge buttons. Herringbone plaids. Tie dyes. All we’re missing is pillbox hats and peace signs painted on our cheeks.
I feel like I haven’t accomplished a lot today, but I have gotten some things done that needed doing. Nick had five shelves of collectibles that I dusted and divided up. He doesn’t want the Chevron Cars back in his room. We’ll have to find a shelf for them in the rec room. They’re precious vehicles. If you ever need a present for a younger child, check out the clearance section at www.chevroncars.com
We’re having left-overs for supper tonight. Jim will be home around 5:30 and I’ll have it all ready so he can eat and put the final coat of paint on Nick’s walls. Nick is so ready to have everything back in its place! I don’t blame him.
Jim has the final basketball game of the season tomorrow with play-offs starting next week. He’ll also coach baseball. The coaches had a meeting with interested kids this a.m. and Jim said they had over 40 boys come out. They’ll start playing catch in the next week or so. Jim will really enjoy that!
I had fresh green beans and cauliflower for lunch. Yum! I love steamed veggies! My weight is staying down, tho I’d really like to lose another 8 lbs or so. I’ve always felt 124lbs was my best weight. I’m getting in some walking MOST days, tho it’s harder during the week because of the daycare child. We go out at night to walk even if it’s around a store or the mall.
I’m so glad it’s the weekend! I just hope the nice weather holds so we can do something outside! Neat!
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Time is quickly passing... - 1/25/2009 7:38:41 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 photo courtesy of Lori Hart Tomas
John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Philippians 2: 5, 6, 8-11 "Christ Jesus, Who, being in very nature God, and being found in appearance as a man, humbled Himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2: 5, 6, 8-11
Philippians 4:8-9 “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you."
Did you have a very busy weekend?
Nick’s bedroom is all finished and looks great! He has a few ‘war’ items on display but because he has a small collection of GI Joe’s from WWII and the Civil War, it looks like more. He has a .52 caliber Sharps Carbine bullet from 1852, Civil War (found in Cobb County, Ga.) and an ammunition chest from WWII. The wall color is perfect and the drapes I made are quite pretty. He’s thrilled! Now he no longer has a ‘little boy room’.
Mother and I were out almost all day on Saturday. We went to a huge number of Thrift Stores, Antique Stores and had lunch at Long John Silver’s. It was fun, but I was tired and ready for bed by 10:00.
 photo by Lori Hart Tomas
I’d put in an oven roaster today so it was ready when we got in from church. Nick had a friend come home with him so we ate and then took the boys to Gold City Antiques. The owner wanted to give Nick the Civil War bullet. The boys and Jim really enjoyed the store. The lady opened the cases and let the boys be hands on.
Later in the afternoon, we went to the dollar store for some cleaning supplies and Valentines, Wal-mart for shipping envelopes for college text books Jim has sold and then to the grocery store. We were out of meats! It had warmed up to around 50° so it was nice being out!
Our Jon is going to drive my mother to her doctor’s appointment in Atlanta on Monday. We are concerned they may biopsy an area and didn’t want her driving herself home!
Tuesday is my consult with the oncologist. I’m certainly not excited about it because of it being an ‘unknown’. God is in control and I expect a 100% healing. I’ll let you know what he says and what the plan is as soon as I know something. Will you whisper a prayer for me?
The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with.
James 5:16b
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Oncologist Tuesday at 12:45 - 1/26/2009 1:32:23 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 photo courtesy of Lori Hart Tomas 2 Corinthians 12:9 He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Psalm 25:5 Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day. Romans 5:3-4 Tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
I have to be honest and admit I’m not looking forward to my consult with the oncologist on Tuesday. I have no idea what to expect and I do not like the unknown. Scripture tells me in Jeremiah 32:26-27 “Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah saying, ‘Behold, I am the Lord, the God of ALL FLESH, is anything too difficult for Me?’” Jeremiah 32:17 says, ‘Ah Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! NOTHING is too difficult for You.”
“So we should pray not just for relief from our affliction, but for the grace to turn it into greater openness to God and to His will for us. Then we can be strong in calamity, and at peace in the place where God has planted us.” — David H. Roper
 photo by Lori Hart Tomas
I woke so many times last night and I have no idea why. We’d gone to bed early but I woke at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 5:30 and then 6:00. Jim had wound our clock that chimes, but that is a sound I’ve heard continually for over 30 years. I turned off the t.v. at 1:00, thinking that might be the problem. I was only awake long enough to glance at the clock so it was just a bit of a bother.
My mother is on her way to Emory. Our 32 year old son is taking her. She’d found two lumps under her arm on the side where she’d had breast cancer 25 years ago. That’s also the side where she has Squamous Carcinoma. Her lymph nodes were removed 25 years ago so we have no idea what this might be. The dermatopatholigist doesn’t believe it’s caused by the cancer he removed from inside her arm. I’ll update here as soon as I know anything. ** The cancer specialist said the lumps are ‘nothing to be concerned about’ and said he’ll see her again for her regular appointment in April. That’s wonderful news!
 photo by Lori Hart Tomas
Hebrews 12:1-3 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
Jim won’t be home til very late tonight. The basketball team has their playoff game today and they’re out of town. He rides with the teams on the bus and the girl’s team plays before the boys. That means the boys game will start around 6:00 or later.
Well, again I’ll share that I’m a little apprehensive about the doctor tomorrow. Maybe this visit will just make it seem more real…. I don’t know… but I covet your prayers!
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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New update - 2/1/2009 6:26:40 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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James 4:14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Psalm 77:11-14 I recall all you have done, O LORD; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about them. O God, your ways are holy. Is there any god as mighty as you? You are the God of miracles and wonders! You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations. Psalm 136:1-9 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords. His faithful love endures forever. 4 Give thanks to him who alone does mighty miracles. His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to him who made the heavens so skillfully. His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to him who placed the earth on the water. His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to him who made the heavenly lights – His faithful love endures forever. The sun to rule the day, His faithful love endures forever and the moon and stars to rule the night. His faithful love endures forever. Matthew 7:24-27 "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones. 
Not much has been going on since my last blog. My Oncologist called on Thursday to say my chemo might start a bit later because he has to send off a portion of my tumor to the Mayo Clinic to see if it qualifies for the drug trial. The testing of the tumor takes about 10 days. I also have to have a CT scan of my chest this Friday afternoon for the Mayo drug trial. I’m certainly praying for a complete healing and if this drug is the answer, that I’m chosen.
The trial drug has been used since 2004 on advanced colon cancer and the cure rate is excellent. The Mayo Clinic has been given the FDA okay to try it on people like me, who did not have cancer in other organs, to see how it works. Dr. said it would be a major thumbs up for me and would give me a chance to help others in the future. Sounds great!
I don't think I told you that my chemo will be Wednesday every other week with a return visit on Friday for either the trial medicine or to be unhooked from my pump. Oh, the pump is something I'll wear home on Wednesday and it will continue pumping until it's removed that Friday. Then I'll skip a week, etc. until I've had 12 treatments. That's approximately 6 months of chemo.
I’d be lying if I implied I’m always upbeat. I would prefer to have been told my cure rate is 100%. My number is over 70%, not counting any points I might be given for being a good weight and in good, otherwise, health. I know that 71% is quite high, but it’s still scary. I’ve had a number of sad times. Not depressed. Just sad. I feel numb, if that makes sense. It’s as if the whole world continues to turn and move and I am in the middle of this spinning movie, standing still.
This week I have a surgeon’s visit on Wednesday and my mother sees the dermatopatholigist right after my visit. They’re within walking distance of each other, so we’ll have an easy morning. My visit is a ‘pre-op’ for having my ‘chemo port’ put in. Friday morning I have to be at the hospital at 6:30 with surgery time of 7:30. I won’t be put to sleep. Dr. Griffith said it’s a 15 minute procedure and I can go shopping or whatever right away. Actually, I have the CT scan of my chest at 1:00. The port will be a disc about the size of a quarter that will remain under the skin on my upper chest so chemo can be administered through that instead of having to start IV’s each time. It’s supposed to be a real blessing.
We had a good church service today. Our Youth Choir sang some glorious songs that were slow and had lovely words of praise. Very uplifting. Our sermon was on Hope. Brother Jeff did a good job. I’m not going to return to teach Sunday School until I’m finished with chemo. That’s over 6 months from now.
We did our taxes today. It’s supposed to take about 10 days for funds to be in our bank account. We were very upset to find out that Turbo Tax now charges a LOT more money! Our cost was over $100.00. We won’t use them next year.
Nick and my Mother both have bad colds. Nick’s getting over his and Mother is just getting sick. They both stayed home from church today. Jon and Mary met us and then came home for lunch. We had Beef Stew and it was very good. Anyhow, my Mother actually went to bed this afternoon and she never, ever naps. I know she must feel awful for her to lie down! I hope she’s okay. I checked on her earlier and she was sleeping very hard. She had not slept well at all last night.
Mother and I go out every day. We put Lauren in the stroller and walk around stores like Hobby Lobby. Lauren enjoys it and she sleeps really hard once we get home, have lunch and put her down for her nap. The fresh air is good for all of us.
I’m walking several hours a day. I’ve told you before that I read walking an hour a day for 6 days a week helps prevent a recurrence of colon cancer. It also helps the time pass so I have less time to think about percentages or ‘what ifs’. The exercise is keeping my weight off. I sure don’t look ‘sick’ or like I had surgery 3 ½ weeks ago!
I really dislike football and wish we had another satellite dish so I could watch something other than the Super Bowl, but alas, it’s not to be. Oh, I could put in a movie in the bedroom, I guess, but then I’d be alone. Maybe I’ll go into Nick’s room and help him scope out Germans on Call of Duty 3. I like doing that.
PLEASE keep me in prayer during chemo for a full and forever 100% cure! I will NOT lose my hair. Side effects are said to be mild with any of the 4 medicines (including the trial drug) but might include mouth sores, acne and fatigue, as well as the usual.
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
< Message edited by dianetavegia -- 2/1/2009 6:32:51 PM >
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Terrified much of the day - 2/3/2009 6:27:07 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Isaiah 48:10 “See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.”
1 Peter 1:6-9 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith--the salvation of your souls.
(Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it's your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory. You never saw him, yet you love him. You still don't see him, yet you trust him - with laughter and singing. Because you kept on believing, you'll get what you're looking forward to: total salvation. The Message)
Unbreakable. Have you seen that movie? Well, I guess you could say I thought of myself as unbreakable. I’ve had chicken pox, measles, mumps and colds but nothing more. No PMS, problems with childbirth or problems with menopause. I just assumed I’d go to sleep when I was 103 and not wake up one day.
I’ve been keeping busy and keeping my mind off illness until the registration nurse called this morning about my port on Friday. She began talking about anesthesia, how long the procedure takes and recovery room and I just was overwhelmed with fear. I’m alone right now because Mother took Nick for a haircut and I’d doing my best to keep my mind off the ‘what ifs’. Please pray for me.
Wednesday morning is my appointment with the surgeon for the pre-op details. Read that as ‘Where’s my $30.00 co-pay?’ Mother has an appointment right after that with the dermatopatholigist. He expects to remove her stitches from her arm and work on the spot on her leg. That spot, however, has still not healed from the biopsy several weeks ago! Not sure what he’ll do!
Jim is supposed to be home early today. It’s too cold for baseball practice and he has a coaches meeting with all the coaches in the division tonight. It’s in Mt. Zion so he’s picking up a coach friend from another school so they can car pool. The meeting is at 7:00 so I’m sure he’ll be quite late getting home.
I’m hoping this is our last cold spell before spring. Tomorrow morning should be about 10° wind chill when we leave for the doctor. OUCH! My gas bills haven’t been horrible, but we keep the house pretty chilly and wear loads of clothes, use electric heaters to heat specific rooms instead of the whole house, etc. Anyhow, it’s going to begin to warm Friday and should be very lovely this weekend. I’d love to sit out on the deck and get some sunshine!
Another phone call…. My CT Scan is actually on Thursday. The lady had left the information on my answering machine and it SOUNDS like she said ‘the 6th’ but she actually said ‘the 5th’. That means I have something Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Oh well.
Jim and I are going out to dinner Wednesday night. We’re going on a date to Longhorn’s. That’ll be very nice. I’m thinking Prime Rib. Sound good?
Well, I’ve been up down, up down, up down today. Right now I’m scared and overwhelmed….
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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My Port (Power port) - 2/9/2009 6:58:40 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Psalm 42:5 Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. 6 O my God, my soul is cast down within me; Therefore I will remember You from the land of the Jordan, And from the heights of Hermon, From the Hill Mizar. 7 Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls; All Your waves and billows have gone over me. 8 The Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, And in the night His song shall be with me-- A prayer to the God of my life. 9 I will say to God my Rock, "Why have You forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?" 10 As with a breaking of my bones, My enemies reproach me, While they say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 11 Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. Joel 2:25 "So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, The crawling locust, The consuming locust, And the chewing locust, My great army which I sent among you. 26 You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, And praise the name of the Lord your God, Who has dealt wondrously with you; And My people shall never be put to shame Romans 5:6-10 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! For if, while we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 
I guess it’s been quite a while since I’ve blogged. I’ve had doctor appointments, CT Scans and had surgery to put in my Power Port. (OUCH) Rush, rush, ouch, ouch, worry, worry….
I have bruises on my hands and up my arms from IV attempts. I have to wear a purple rubber bracelet as a medical alert and I have the pain in my shoulder to remind me of things I would rather forget....
I’m overwhelmed this morning. I’ll get a phone call between now and Tuesday afternoon about chemo. I might start Wednesday and it might be next week. The crazy things going through my head…. Lift me up, Lord, and remove this fear!
I spent so much of my life worrying about sickness that didn’t exist. What a horrible waste of time that was. I repent of all those wasted hours and days, Dear Lord. Help me to trust YOU today and give this experience to YOU. You say, ‘I am the Lord who heals you’. Increase my faith. I believe. ‘The eyes of the Lord run to and forth over the whole earth….’ God’s eyes are on me. TO GOD BE THE GLORY !!! Mountain BE REMOVED!
“Qavah”: wait, look for, hope, expect. Isaiah 40:28-31 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait (“Qavah”) on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.
I listened to a CD of Bible verses this morning and had a nicer afternoon. That and my daily devotionals gave me great hope.
Baseball has started. I’m not positive what the plan is for supper, so we’ll eat at our regular time, with or without Jim. We’re having pork roast, blackeyed peas, Brussel sprouts, new potatoes, cranberry sauce and cornbread. Doesn’t that sound good? YUM!
Jim’s going to the symphony tomorrow with the school. He’s looking forward to the music, but not the bus ride. They’ll have a short baseball practice after school. Jim’s pretty much decided he won’t coach next year.
Well, no call from the doctor so that may or may not mean I have chemo on Wednesday early a.m. I’ll call late tomorrow afternoon if I’ve not gotten a call by then.
Have a lovely evening and thanks so much for your prayers for my healing and for overcoming any fear.
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Tuesday before 1st Chemo - 2/17/2009 4:29:19 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Ephesians 1:13 It's in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free - signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. 14 This signet from God is the first installment on what's coming, a reminder that we'll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life. 15 That's why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the Christians, 16 I couldn't stop thanking God for you - every time I prayed, I'd think of you and give thanks. 17 But I do more than thank. I ask - ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory - to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, 18 your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for Christians, 19 oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him - endless energy, boundless strength! 20 All this energy issues from Christ: God raised him from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, 21 in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule. And not just for the time being, but forever. 22 He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, Christ rules the church. 23 The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
Let’s try this again. TOMORROW is my first chemo treatment. I went last week and the nurse accessed my port, took loads of blood and I was counseled by the Mayo Clinic Drug Trial nurse but my CT Scan of my chest had shown something in my gallbladder so I was sent for an ultrasound at the hospital. Once the oncologist got the results, he called my surgeon and they decided my gallstones can wait til after the chemo ends.
Again, I’m a bit on edge. The first treatment takes about 6 hours. I keep reminding myself that it’s 12 treatments. After tomorrow, 11. They called to remind me of the appointment just minutes ago. To God be ALL the glory for my healing and health.
Jim had a four day weekend and I enjoyed having him home. He started back to school today. He also has baseball practice each afternoon. Their games begin March 3rd.
We’re having some bad weather over the next few days. We always have a really bad spurt of weather just before spring rushes in. I’m hoping that’s what this is. I’m ready for spring. I’ve not gone out for the last two days and I miss it. Once my mother is gone, I’ll be home all the time again. Bummer.
We’re having steamed cabbage, roast pork (left over from Monday), corn bread and black eyed peas for supper. I’ll slice up some tomatoes, too. Doesn’t that sound yummy? The house already smells good!
Well, there’s not much to report. I would appreciate prayers that I not become anxious or have any reaction to the chemo tomorrow. I do appreciate all the prayers for my total healing!
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Had first chemo treatment - 2/19/2009 2:52:28 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 John 6:66 "From this time many of His disciples turned back and no longer followed Him.’You do not want to leave, too, do you?' Jesus asked the twelve. Simon Peter answered Him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.'" Luke 1:50 His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.
My first chemo treatment was Wednesday. I was given a 30 minute infusion of steroids and anti nausea medicines before 2 hours of chemo drug. The final drug was given in an injection through my port and then 3 ounces was put into a huge pump I wear on my side for 46 hours. The only side effects I noticed was cold things bothering my throat and I had some flushing and slight wobbly sensation from the steroids. Those will be out of my system by this afternoon. Also, I could SMELL the chemo drugs. No one else could. That seems to have disappeared so that will probably only last hours each time.
I did not qualify for the Mayo Clinic Drug Trial because my tumor is not the specific tumor that the drug helps. The people receiving that drug generally have cancer that has spread to their other organs. Praise God, my cancer was contained within the colon and a few lymph nodes.
My total time at the doctor, yesterday, was 3 1/2 hours. It’ll be close to that every other Wednesday for a total of 12 treatments. I’m just praying my white count and platelets stay within normal ranges so I don’t have to miss any treatments and extend time. I’m also praying for a 100% healing. Again, my chances of being cancer free at 5 years ranges from 71-80% and that’s not counting YOUR prayers and GOD”S hand in my life!
We had horrific storms last night. Our son, Jon, sent me pictures of hail the size of golf balls. His bright red Mustang has divots the size of baseballs. His wife had left for work while it was still dark so we don’t know about her car (also newer). Jon’s quite upset. They had moved the cars under the carport right as the hail began. Evidently the hail must have bounced or been blown in by the 70mph winds. I hope their insurance will cover the repairs! He has some roof damage too. Four tornadoes touched down in just hours.
My mother will be going home for a while. I’m doing fine and she’s been here since the first few days of January. She needs to do her taxes and see her doctor. Her legs and ankles started swelling and were not going down over night. She did stop taking Zyrtec, which means she’s reacting to my cat very badly, and that seemed to help. Her spot on the back of her leg has not healed. The dermatopatholigist says it’s pre-cancer but he cannot do surgery for that until she finds the cause of her swelling and until the spot heals. After all these weeks, it looks like a bedsore. She’s got her car partially packed to leave Friday morning. I’ll sure miss her.
I have to give up my daycare child. Friday will be her last day. The doctor said I could continue to keep her as long as she never came if she had a cold, the sniffles, upset tummy or diarrhea or had anyone in the house with the above. If my white cells dropped, I’d have to give her up without notice. That would mean her mother would miss loads of work. I left it up to the mom. The mom knows how badly we need the income but I assured her that she had to do what was best for her as well as me having to do what is best for my health. I’m asking everyone to please check out my online travel agency that has loads of other things to offer to help me generate income to replace this loss. Check it out, please, at www.nextstopparadisetravel.com and Thanks!
That being said, I’m going to list my childcare items on Freecycle this weekend or check with the consignment shop to see if I can bring the better items there. I MIGHT consider a yard sale and then give away what’s left. And maybe not.
Jim has baseball practice this afternoon. He’s going to be shocked. It looks so nice out, but the wind is awful. He’ll freeze! I’ve got pork chops for supper but am not sure what time to expect him.
I would have loved to take a nap today but I’ve never felt safe napping with the toddler here. I think I’ll plan to start taking short naps next week and all during my chemo just to help keep up strength. I’m sure they’ll come a time I need extra energy.
Well, thanks for those prayers and keep on praying!
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Be sure to do your travel shopping through my online travel agency at:
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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Standing on HIS promises! - 2/23/2009 5:08:00 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1900
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Matthew 6:34 "Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes. Matt. 7:7 "Don't bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. 8 This isn't a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we're in. 9 If your child asks for bread, do you trick him with sawdust? 10 If he asks for fish, do you scare him with a live snake on his plate? 11 As bad as you are, you wouldn't think of such a thing. You're at least decent to your own children. So don't you think the God who conceived you in love will be even better? Joshua 1:9 “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Psalm 30:5 “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” 
Ah, what’s been going on? Well, I had my pump removed on Friday. Jon drove me. It took minutes. They weighed me, took my blood pressure and temperature and pulled the needle out of my chest/ port. Minutes. I’d been ill all morning, dreading it, and it took minutes.
My mother left early Friday morning and the silence is deafening. My guys play their games, watch baseball, listen to music or get involved in their hobbies and I am not doing well with positive thoughts much of the time. I need to rise above this! Satan get behind me! ‘For I AM the Lord that heals you!’ The power of God can only be claimed where the will of God is known. I believe God can and will use me for many, many years to lead others to Him and share the promises of His kingdom. I am not afraid of the gospel and am not ashamed to share it! Some of the scriptures that help me are Psalms 30:2; 34:19; 103:3; Isaiah 53:4; Matthew 8; 1 Peter 2; Mark 11; Proverbs 18.
What did I do today? Well, Jim woke me around 6:30 but I had no need to get up so stayed in bed until around 7:45. I got up and started coffee and then crawled back in bed til it was done. I only ate half a piece of toast right then but had some shredded wheat later. Just a small bowl. Just wasn’t hungry that early. Since my surgery, my appetite is much smaller. I’m wondering if the blockage prevented absorption of key nutrients and maybe I ate more in an attempt to get what my body needed. Hmmm… Whatever it is, I eat much less and have kept off the 15 lbs.
I stripped the bed and washed everything from quilts to comforter. I seriously need a new bed ruffle. I’d seen one at K-Mart a few weeks ago and didn’t get it. It was on the clearance rack and it was a shade of purple. I wish I’d paid more attention. Who knows, it might still be there. Mine had been caught in the beater bars of the vacuum when Nick helped me out and it needs to be replaced.
My plan is to pull out everything of mine from my closet tomorrow and go through it. I have a lot of dresses and skirts that are terribly out of style or size 12. (Some are 20 years old but were very high quality clothing) Well, I’m no longer size 12 and don’t plan on ever being that size again. No sense in hanging on to clothes that are too large or too small. If it doesn’t fit now, it is going to the consignment shop. I have an Easter dress from about 5 years ago that was only worn a few times but it is way too large and it’s also sleeveless. We’ll see how far I get, right? I don’t think I have anything my size in the closet other than shirts, slacks and three vests. That’s okay. I can only wear one thing at a time. Talk about SHOES…. Well, I wear size 5 ½ and can find some amazing bargains at times. I also am very gentle on shoes. I have so many that I haven’t worn in years and see they’re coming back in style! Time to get them to the consignment shop. No way am I going to wear 4” heels again! Whew!
After I blogged the other day, I listed all my daycare items on Freecycle and gave it all away to one woman within an hour. She was so very thankful! She has a baby and keeps her nephew so she could use everything I had. I’d been given much of the stuff, so I decided it was only right to pass it on.
Jim has a doctor’s appointment with his pulmonary specialist this afternoon. If he comes by here before heading to Atlanta, I’m going with him. I need distractions and it’s so very cold. I can’t go for a walk in the neighborhood. Hope he stops by! ** He did and I went with him. We’ve just gotten home. It took forever to go through the valet parking (forced) at the VA. Actually, I dropped off Jim because it was time for his appointment and we were only half way through the line. Thirty minutes later, it was my turn.
Well, thanks for those prayers and keep on praying for 100% healing and for peace of mind!!
Be well and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Be sure to do your travel shopping through my online travel agency at:
www.nextstopparadisetravel.com
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