And The Oscar Goes To.....

All the cancer warriors who continue to fight for their lives with trials, chemo, and medication. Some have already lost their lives in the struggle, while others refuse to give up. We all live with the hope that someday there will be a cure. I say awards go to all.  

Who's On Drugs?

 With or without a sling?

Interviewer:  Is it true you're unstable? 

Gaddafi: No, it's those kids drinking Nescafe with hallucinogens. 

Porcine Representative

Dear Porcine Rep,

I am happy that you find kissing pigs a delight.  I in no way wished to offend the pigs of the world.  I do hear that some of them can be lovable.  Obviously, you have found many that are. Maybe it is time to examine their reputation and possibly redefine it. 

I appreciate any other feedback about likable pigs.

You know you have.....

I love you.

You needed the raise, wanted the job, got the deal. It's all relative.  Don't break down the fence to get into the pen.  When's the last time you did what you wanted?

Adventure In Northbrook

Magic Carpet Above Chicago

Went to the burbs and spent a productive afternoon in the library.  In a private glass enclosed workroom. It's nice to change locations once in awhile. Great way to travel. I highly recommend it.

I'm In Charge Now.....

He  put me in charge since he's getting stale.  Whining about dirty snow,working, winter.

I'm a dog and I enjoy what I do:  I dug a hole, ate lunch, and napped.

You're the boss of you.....

This?

Or this?

Nothing like dirty snow to get you back into the swing of things. I think my cousin Chris has the right idea. He has a place in Delray and when it gets really bad here, he goes to Florida. For those of us who have spent most of our lives in the Midwest, I think we develop two things in the winter, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and amnesia. We forget how bad the winters are. But, no one is forcing me to stay here.  If I want to leave, I can.  And that my friends is my point today. Change means realizing you can do it.  You don't need to listen to anyone but yourself.

Going Home....

I'm sorry I haven't blogged in awhile. The night I returned from Florida, I got news that my Aunt Blanche had died. We all knew it was coming and I had just talked to her a week before.  We had a great conversation, laughing about the indignities of being in a hospital. Wearing hospital gowns that never fit or didn't tie. She was the last of the Kowalczyks. My oldest aunt.  She finally went home. I'll miss her... with a smile.

Self confidence and cancer

Golden Trumpets

When you hear side effects, you generally think about physical symptoms.  Yes, they are real and they are visible.  But what about psychological scars?  I think anyone who has ever been diagnosed with any type of cancer, suffers some residuals. I never had a lot of self-confidence but after I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I found I had even less. Getting through surgery, dealing with incontinence, impotence. Each of these had its toll.  Those of you who have had different cancers, know what I'm talking about. It may have affected your relationship with your partner or family. It has been nearly three years for me, and even though my surgical scars have nearly disappeared, my emotional ones are still healing.  Each time I make a step, it's better and it's important to celebrate. Take time to do it. I treated myself to a vacation. I didn't have the money but I had credit cards and concerned friends who encouraged me. I made it happen and it has helped me so much. I found myself writing long hours every day and enjoying it.  To those of you who read this, take time to do something nice for yourself.  You deserve it. 

Embarrassing moment

Cuban coffee

After ordering a cafe con leche in Key West, Jose placed an expresso on the counter. "How kind," I thought.  After I finished most of it, He said, "That wasn't for you." Imagine my embarrassment when I turned around and saw a local waiting for his shot. We're not in Starbucks anymore, Toto. 

Don't Be Chicken

Chickens roam the streets of Key West.  The one above flew into a tree and  perched at least l2 ft. above me.  I didn't know chickens could fly that high.  But there is a point here, my amis. Don't be afraid to take that chance.  It's frightening but once you've done it, it's exhilarating.  Whether it's getting into a new trial, writing another chapter, or deciding it's time to have surgery.  Take a deep breath and fly. 

Escape

On The Waterfront

I got out of Chicago three hours before the blizzard hit.  Key West is so beautiful.  I have a bit of survivor's guilt thinking of the 21 inches back there.  I am very lucky.