The Stillroom

This was taken New Year’s Eve in East Liberty. We sat around all day and decided we needed to get out of the house late afternoon. We took advantage of the gift card and went to Trader Joe’s because I drink decaf coffee and their French Roast decaf is the best. We added a few additional treats like the frozen chocolate croissants and fresh ravioli. I have been feeling pretty good since I have the chemo out of my system. I felt good enough to leave the house for a ride to the store which was refreshing even on this dreary winter day. Mike has a thing for some kind of bread he found at Whole Foods so we trekked up the street for that. When he has his mind set on good bread, look out. We drove home at dusk and the fog on the river was impressive to say the least. We spent a quiet evening in and fell asleep like only old, tired people do and the people up the street set off their fireworks at midnight so we woke up long enough to wish each other a Happy New Year and fell right back to sleep.

Wig shopping. Now there is something I thought I’d never be doing. At first we told Lisa the hair gal I was salt and pepper as I have never dyed my hair or used any product in it. So she brought out a wig that made me look like mama from the Carol Burnett show. Was it Mama’s Family? Well, that was a hoot and it was also when Mike, Patty and I decided I was still more brunette than salt and pepper. I opted for a bit longer style of “hair” and it looked nice at the salon but looked stupid when I got home. I think I’ll stick with wearing a turban or head wrap. I’m just more comfy bald than I am with this “hair.”

Well, the calendar has turned and while most folks look to the new year refreshed and with hope, I kind of am apprehensive as I don’t know what my future will hold. I guess really at the end of the day none of us do. I will just keep letting the system and the good Lord guide me along in this journey. I will try and be positive and hopeful until I know there is no reason to be either.

I am greeting each new day with gratitude for feeling good on the days that I do. Grateful for the caring friends and family that I know are thinking of me. I have now become their concern to a degree. If good vibes and prayers are answered in any form, I know I am in the best of hands with those around me. But, it is still my path to walk alone.