For now, at least, all the test, poking and prodding are over. Catscan, Colonoscopy, X-Ray, MRI, endless blood work, catheters & PET-CT scan's. The doctors agree. It's time to move forward with treatment.

Sometime this week I will be starting a Chemotherapy cocktail consisting of daily doses of Xeloda with a snort of Eloxatin and a Radiation Highball chaser. I have to say, I just love their websites! People, nearly double my age, standing tall and proud. Wind blowing in their hair [?]. Happy as a pig in shit. I'm forced to wonder why I have been dreading it. After all, mouth sores, vomiting, nausea, difficulty swallowing, hair loss and "abnormal tongue sensations" (my personal favorite) can't be all that bad can they? Like I told my doctor........"Your going to drug me and put a camera up my ass?........sounds like my last trip to Vegas!.....Will there be any farm animals?". I can't help but think this trip, although memorable, won't be as much fun.

Now that the pessimist within me has had his say, I will try to move on.

There's a boat load of things for me to be grateful for. My family, friends and loved ones. I've stopped smoking after 20+ years. I have a great job that has brought new and trusted friends. God. And yes. Believe it or not. I am grateful that I have these meds available to me, not to mention the doctors and medical insurance.

I've been told that Chemo & Radiation should be about 5 weeks, with surgery to follow, providing everything works out as planned. I'm anxious to get started with one exception........ My oldest, Ashlin, graduates high school June 3rd and I'll be damned if I'm gonna miss her graduation. Tuesday we meet with the Oncology Department to review our game plan. I think there might be a delay until June 4th.

Ashlin. I love you and I could not be prouder than to call you MY DAUGHTER.

Happy Mothers day Mum. I love you!