30 Lashes with a Wet Noodle

My "funny" and charming father would write notes excusing me from school or explaining an absence with ridiculous "please forgive her" instructions like, "please forgive Kirsten's behavior and feel free to administer 30 lashes with a wet noodle as punishment."  You can imagine how that went over with a 15-year-old Kirsten who had to present such a note to her teacher or principal.

Anyway, I am feeling like I am in need of forgiveness for leaving you all hanging so long without a post.

UPDATE:

It has been an interesting month.  Since I last posted, Ginny made the decision to more aggressively address her urinary system challenges.  This decision was almost made for her as her right ureter has been unhappy for months and the presence of a stent there has become more and more difficult for Ginny's body to tolerate (painful and increasing bleeding).  The solution suggested and ultimately completed, was the removal of the stent and the insertion of a nephrostomy tube (a direct line and drainage system in Ginny's right kidney).  This supports the kidney and the ureter is now free to rest. As reminder - the stent was placed initially because the "bastard tumor" has formed around the right ureter and the stent kept it open.  The nephrostomy procedure was complete Monday March 6th.   She spent the night at Mayo and is now home.

Sooooo this is a lifestyle change for her.  Although small, it will require daily attention from nurse Kirsten :)

For those of you who are curious...

The tube actually comes out of her back so she is unable to do the site maintenance on her own.  Some of you are asking yourselves how can she possibly sit or sleep?  Well, as is her wonder woman way, just fine.  She slept on her back last night.

On another note, Gin is experiencing less pain and discomfort in her other "disposal" system.  It seems the pain pump is doing a good job of controlling the pain there.  Gin has not needed oral meds to supplement the pump in over two weeks.  She wonders if the tumor is shrinking as a result of this "wicked" chemo - MAY IT BE SO!

THE GOOD STUFF...

On Saturday March 11th we are celebrating Ginny's 80th Birthday.  I know, I know...80?  Yup, our Gin has aged well :)

Those of you who are local, feel free to join us.  Family and friends are flying in from all corners of the country and we are looking forward to celebrating my incredible wyf.

March 11th
1-4 pm
Toasting at 2 PM
Austin ArtWorks Center in Downtown Austin

She is asking that folks not bring gifts but she would enjoy a card.  For those who would like to do more, Ginny suggests donations to the Mower County Humane Society or the Austin ArtWorks Center.

I will post pics after the event, I PROMISE.

Love
Kir