Mid Day News

Well to be honest there isn't any...

I'm all done for the day bit am bored, and a little bit tired, even though I
did sleep really well last night.

The headache didn't kick in till mid morning though today so that was good,
I was then reading on one of the Brain Tumour Groups on Facebook that the
steroids can actually cause headaches too, and a number of the people taking
them get the headaches, so it could just be that I suppose alongside
everything else.

At least I am slowly reducing them now, and want to do so next month even
more so when I see the Oncologist. I just need to get off them and loose all
this weight I have put on, it will be like having a whole new wardrobe of
clothes to wear again....

Nothing much else to write at the moment so will sign off till later when I
think of something more to say.

Steve x

Super Fast

Well today has been a super fast day and also quiet too.

I have changed the way I log onto the office computer system, which means I
am now running at full speed again, I can now start to work fully and pick
up more task which will keep me occupied. Something that would have taken me
2 hours now only takes me 20 mins.

I have only had two painkillers all day I have a little headache now but I'm
trying not to have any more, see if I can get through till tomorrow, which
would be good.

It's not so bad when I am occupied though so I will just have to keep
occupied and then go straight to sleep.

I commented again today that the last few weeks appear to have gone back to
normal, we don't get the usual visitors just popping in, the odd phone calls
etc, that sounds awful as it as only people who cared, but I know they still
care and will always be there, they don't have to ask me every day though.
It's nice to not have to think about the cancer and just plod on through the
day.

Anyway I have very little else to say today other than Mark has been adding
more of our possessions to the eBay store
http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562 and has
reduced the price on a number of the items. Will sign off an will update
tomorrow.

Steve

From Stiletto's to Wellingtons

Well I would never thought I would see the day I would be swapping my
stiletto shoes for Wellington boots, but today that has happened.

It's been an odd afternoon and today has made me think quite a lot about how
my life has changed so much since September of last year, the majority of it
for the good I might add, but all in completely different ways to what I
would have generally chosen if I was honest.

Back to the wellingtons anyway. I had a call this afternoon from a friend
that wanted more Drag from our collection so he came round and had a look at
what we had left. He bought quite a number of items as he is currently
building up his drag wardrobe.

No sooner did the money come in than had we already spent it - the story of
our lives!! Mark was on the net looking at willies as we need them to go
camping this weekend and also will be handy when we get the boat. Isn't it
odd how your buying habits change....

Anyway long story short we are both now the proud owners of wellingtons....
(or we will be when the postie decides to deliver them)

Have been into the office today and managed to get loads done, which is good
as it makes my email inbox clear and also helps the guys out. Its also a
sense of achievement if I get my email inbox clear too - it always has been,
and is one little way of being back to normal.

Normality has almost returned to my life and everything is now returning
back to a bit of a quiet existence, things have changed etc about where am
working and such but that's about it, it's lovely....

The headaches are just something I put up with now, although they are
getting less and less I still have to take a couple of pain killers during
the day most days, but the Oncologist isn't worried about them and so
neither am I, to be honest I probably give myself headaches by stressing
about them and pushing myself.

Mark has been uploading more stock items to the eBay store so will have a
busy couple of days if they all sell, its better if it's done on a daily
basis as there is always something beginning and ending and is a constant
change of items.

Anyway am off to bed, will update tomorrow.

Steve

Week-end

Well as promised I am updating before we go to bed.

This afternoon I havent done much just sorted a couple of things out tidies
our bedroom and then sat and prepared the kilts that have arived this week,
its an ongoing process and we have more arrivibg in the next few days too.

There is more post to go tomorrow, and am hoping to go into the office if I
can get my head into gear.

Mark has been uploading more items to the eBay store
http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562 there is
loads of random items going on at the moment, as we would like to avoid
going to a carboot sale if we can, but I knw its not going to happen so in
the next few weeks we will be off to a carboot sale somewhere and offload a
load of stuff.

My headaches are ok today although I have had had a couple of painkillers,
thats probably because I am tired though and I have been focusing on the
kilts, so probably my own fault.

I finished my schedule of treatments for the BT Buddies www.btbuddies.org
website. It makes sense to me, but I'm sure it needs to be edited, but at
least the content is there.

Dont forget too, that a friend of ours Mel is still looking for votes to be
this years "Britains Top Role Model"

If she wins she will be doniating her £5000 charity prize fund to a charity
of my choice. Thats £5000 that will be going to a Brain Cancer charity if
she wins. Its really easy to do and takes less than two mins

Her name is Mel Bryan and the link to vote is
http://britainstoprealrolemodel.co.uk/en/ I would be greatful if you could
boost her votes and help her on the way to making that £5k contribution -
Have you done it yet mother?

If you could also pass it round to all your friends and colleagues that
would be brilliant too.

Anyway enbough of the soapbox I'm off to bed, will update tomorrow

Steve

Saturday

I didn't do a blog yesterday - Will be honest I forgot, as I was tired.

We had loads to do yesterday bit didn't end up doing a lot, I didn't feel
too clever yesterday was just so tired so was were supposed to have an
early night, that didn't happen as usual as we decided to curl up on the
sofa and watch the new harry potter film but both fall asleep.

We were supposed to go to Mike Cad's Birthday Bash in Sheffield but neither
of us were upto it. Mark is still slightly suffering from the cold he has
had for over a week too.

Natalya has asked me to write about my experience of treatment and all the
levels, as the first couple of months of treatment are pretty much standard
for most people. There is always exceptions but its pretty much standard
most of the time. The peice will go on the BT Buddies www.btbuddies.org
website and form part of the mine of onformation that is already on there.

This leads me onto another gripe. We havent been up long but we have just
sat and watched Sing if you can with Keith Lemmon and Staecey Solomon.

The moneyraised goes to the Teenage Cancer Trust, now I dont knock this as
it is a good cause, but most fundraising for any form of cancer goes to
either Breast or Testicular cancer. Very little money is raised/spent on
Brain cancer research and treatment and is very rarely spoken abiut.

It would be nice to be able to change this and raise more awairness of Brain
cancer, as it is a big disease, that never gets discussed.

Anyway, we can only do what we can do to help raise the profile of this
issue and any help you guys can do too would be brilliant.

One thing I have found out today is that ex friends who I fell out with
during my diagnosis are still following my blog, I find it both sad and
annoying at the same time. Its sad I the respect that when I needed a friend
during my diagnisis they were not there, and now they want to know what I'm
upto, its their loss at the end of the day.

Today were not upto much, I need to plant my tomato and Garlic bulbs as if I
dont get them done this week they wont get done at all.

Othere than that I will update later.

Steve

Freaky Friday

Today has been the oddest of days, and I don't think I should have got out
of bed this morning.

I just couldn't get myself organised, I'm sure someone was moving all my
stuff round this morning when I was trying to get dressed and get out of the
house.

When I eventually did get out of the house, the alarm wouldn't arm, I
eventually got it sorted though.

I then got on the wrong bus and ended up going all round Salford just to get
into town. I do this regular as all the busses at the end of our street
haven't changed for months, however they don't change their destination, so
I forget which one goes direct and which doesn't.

The traffic going into town was then horrendous.

The list doesn't stop, and was glad to actually get to work. At least at my
desk I couldn't do anything wrong. Then the trouble started.

My PC didn't want to work, the whole office was the same though so I know it
wasn't me.

I eventually managed to start what I set out to do and managed to get things
done.

Coming home I got on the right bus, but I got stuck in traffic again, the
roads coming out of Manchester are all being reconstructed, however the
planners of Manchester and Salford roads couldn't plan a pi$$ up in a
brewery as they have taken one of the busiest roads coming in and out of
Manchester and reduced it down to one lane, go figure....

The headaches have continued, but are nowhere as bad as they have been and
actually went away of their own accord today so that's good, they don't even
bother me that much anymore either.

The tickets to the Boat Show came today for next weekend so that's something
to look forward too, we have to get the tent out tomorrow and check we have
everything. We wouldn't want to get there and realise we haven't got any
tent pegs....

We will also be doing eBay tomorrow as have said previously the house is now
for sale and so we need to get our arse into gear and drastically downsize.

The other house is also available to rent from early next month if anyone is
interested in a short term let.

Will sign off now as am tired and will update tomorrow.

Steve

Massage

Today has been an odd day, my machine hasn't worked properly all day and I
have had various people from the IT department connecting to it to sort it
out, they need to do something as its giving me a headache...

Hopefully it will be sorted tomorrow when I get my new log on details as the
systems have changed, I also get a new key ring too.... woo hoo.

I have had a headache again today but not anything like it has been, two
Ibuprofen and it was gone, I did also have a massage this afternoon at BASIC
which helped me so much today, I just didn't want to get off the table, I
would go for one every day if I could, but that would really interfere with
my working day as I wouldn't get much done.

Also this afternoon we went to a Dying Matters event in Salford. It promised
to be information end of life care, and info different options for the end
of your life. It was odd to say the least, as there was DJ (playing older
peoples type music) and cake, it was like a Tea Party (that was actually the
theme of the event) but to me it wasn't relevant at all.

I know I have been positive through my illness but I also have to be
realistic, and when Mark was sent the information on the event I decided I
would like to go just to see what is available, Mark as usual supported my
decision and we both went along.

Neither of us though felt right being there as it was all old people and all
the exhibitors were aimed at the older people, Mark summed it up below.

"On a slightly different note we attended the "Dying Matters" event today
that I mentioned last week, Steve summed it up perfectly by saying he felt
like a gatecrasher at an old persons "Do". Because there was a free buffet
lunch the oldies were all there, a bus load arrived as we did! The venue
was like a large community room with a smaller room or area to the side
where the buffet was, the oldies were queuing around the room for the grub!
The stalls were very unimaginative, the usual, Age Concern, Marie Curie,
Macmillan, Local Hospice, Chaplains, Crematorium and the NHS. It was all
aimed at the oldies, I think we were the youngest visitors by many decades!
We wanted to speak to someone from a Non Religious background about hosting
a funeral, nothing of the sort there, nothing there seemed relevant to us,
hospice was too far forward to be relevant (strange though how we felt would
have liked to have seen funeral directors there to see how a modern funeral
could look) I am sure you get the impression but when you think of this
against the backdrop of a DJ on the stage playing out those classics,
classics' for the Darby and Joan club I'm sure, I am guessing we only just
missed "Roll out the barrel" and "My old man" in short it was a waste of
time, given half a chance we would have probably run the same event for the
wrinklies but we would have has something much more vibrant for younger
people, dying isn't fun but the funeral should be a celebration of life not
reason to wallow in the self pity of what has been lost but a chance to
reflect on how lucky we have been to have whatever or whoever we have had
the pleasure of for X number of years. The only one piece of info was a
document we got from the NHS people, basically living will type of thing
where we can write in it (whilst we are well) how we would like to be
treated toward the end, e.g. not be taken to hospital, refuse certain
treatments etc, there is lots to consider and I am sure some family members
will disapprove but it's our future, we're in this together, for better or
for worse and unfortunately for some it will perhaps be a realisation that
we are adults and we can do adult things and make adult decisions, mummy's
little boy may always be a mummy's boy but mummy doesn't always know what's
right, you said the same thing on Sunday when you said you have similar
where Andrew will speak up for you, I guess it can be a tough realisation
for parents but all part of life."

The living will is something we all need to do, and am going to bet a copy
for everyone, it's something none of us want to discuss but we should all
do.

One last thing, a friend of ours Mel Bryan has been nominated for another
award (she was the one that won the Big Society Award and went to London to
collect it from No 10)

Well she has been nominated for another award as Britain's Top Real Role
Model. The winning prize is £5000 to nominate to a charity of hr choice.

She has said that if she wins she will nominate this to a charity of my
choice.

This is where I am asking you guys to help her out, and vote for her on the
link below (there is also a small blurb from Mel) It takes seconds to do.

To get through to the judging round I need to attract 25 online votes.
Anyone can vote - you just need to go to the link below, register (you only
need to provide an email address and name) and then click the voting button
- the list is alphabetical and I'm under M for Melanie.

http://britainstoprealrolemodel.co.uk/en

It would be great both for Mel and also for the charity of my choice, which
will be a brain tumour charity for obvious reasons. So please vote and pass
it on, the more votes the better.

Am off to bed now as am in the office tomorrow so need to be fresh, that and
I'm really tired after my massage, not tired more deeply relaxed.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve

End of the day

Well its the end of the day again and its been a nice day.

We finished work today and headed off to the cinema to see the new Pirates
of the Caribbean in 3D.

We used to go regular but for some reason or another we have ended up
missing out for a while, but is something we hope to keep up with.

The film is amazing by the way.

I have had headache though today which has disappointed me, however I did
stress myself out with my PC as it was so slow and didn't work right because
it needs an update which IT have to do remotely, will get it done tomorrow
hopefully.

eBay has been busy again tonight and both myself and Tanja have been getting
post ready for tomorrow, Lawrence will drop it in at the post office
tomorrow. No sooner had I packaged all today's sales than more came in which
will now have to go the following day.

Mark has also completed the first two of the up-cycled cushions that we will
be adding to the range, these will be heading out in the next few days as we
already have orders for them.

Mark is feeling and sounding lots better, although the bug is still there so
I'm still on increased immune boosting supplements to help me avoid the bug.

Am heading off to bed now, I know another late night but I haven't stopped
this evening since we got home, I do feel better for it though as I haven't
given in to the tiredness, that and I haven't actually been that tired.

Will update more tomorrow.

Steve

Day 4

Well its day 4 and so far so good, no painkillers yet....

Will update later

For Sale

Well its official, the house is for sale...

We arrived back this evening and there it was in the garden the for sale
sign - now as the regular readers will know we have instigated this not just
random for sale signs appearing in the garden.

Its odd seing it there, and will be a constant reminder to get our arses
into gear and sort things out., whereas before it was a case of we will do
it eventually, eventually is now so OPPERATION HOUSE SALE AND DOWNSIZE is
underway....

Have been in the office today for a couple of hours but because I was tired
when I went in I was tired by 3pm. I didn't sleep last night as Mark was
snoring and I eventually went into the other room, I then couldn't get
comfortable but I did eventually nod off.

Hopefully I will sleep much better tonight. Mark is feeling slightly better
too so that should help. Otherwise I will be in the other room again
tonight.

Headaches have stayed away for three days so far, they have literally
disappeared as quick as they appeared, so no more painkillers for me for the
time being.

I do carry them with me though wherever I go, that and my antibacterial
waterless hand wash sprays, I do have an OCD I know, but I'm not worrying
about it.

I have booked us into the Crick Boat show at the end of the month, this is
THE boat show to go to apparently for Narrow boats etc, so we will get a
good idea of t hypes of boats out there as we think we know what we want but
we have decided to go and test run a few first, we may change our mind of
what we want when we have been on a few.

Other than that not much else to report today, life is returning back to
normal strangely and have slowly set up a new routine of working from home
and the office.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve

Day Two

Well its day two of not having headaches, which is brilliant as it's not an
issue that I have to think about. That and because I am not taking
painkillers I am not having issues with going to the loo....

So as they would say, Service is being resumed....

Our eBay store is doing really well and my all time favourit costume has
gone on, and already has a bid, (it had bids within a couple of mins of
listing) http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem
<http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150605957208>
&item=150605957208 go check it out, I will be sad to see it go, but will be
happy to see it being worn again and used as it should be.

Natalya managed to get back home OK despite the fact we did get up late this
morning and we had to rush to the train station.

It was nice to see Natalya, as we have only ever communicated via email and
such and then briefly in London, so was nice to actually have some downtime
with her and not just see her as a "professional" She has been one of the
most useful people I have met throughout my illness, she has supported both
myself and Mark immensely and I would like to thank her for that. It's
amazing how some people come into your life for one reason and end up
staying there for a multitude of reasons.

Am off to the office tomorrow to do my day in the office.

Mark is still taking his antibiotics and incresed immune system drugs to try
and get rid of the bug he has got at the moment, Mel has the same bug too
now so it looks like it was something they picked up in london last
Thursday.

Anyway will package up the last of my parcels and am off to bed.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve

end of the weekend.

Today has been a slow but random day again.

Woke up late this morning as we all fancied a bit if a lay in. Not bad
really as it is Sunday the day of rest....

Anyway, once we were all up and running, I did today's sales from eBay and
got them ready for posting tomorrow and responded to a number of email
enquiries.

We then headed off to the warehouse for some stationery bits and bobs and
then off over to Harolds for his surprise birthday party.

Natalya and Mark both had to eat so they could take their medication (I was
ok I was just hungry) so we stopped of at a carvery on the way.

Finally managed to get to Harold's around 5pm. Now I can honestly say I
haven't had headache all day, and I have had no painkillers all day so
that's a really good start. I'm just hoping the last few weeks have been
changes in my head and they are now settling down, t could also be the
Steroids I'm have slowly been reducing them so I could have come to a level
my body is comfortable at and I can now go down to the next level reducing
my intake even more.

Mark is still a little under the weather, I haven't had any signs of his
sore throat though - although kissing is out of the question for the time
being....

My intake of immune system supplements and vitamins etc have been stepped up
a little whilst Mark is ill just to be on the safe side, he is also on a
course of antibiotics as an added precaution.

We have to drop Natalya off at the train station early tomorrow morning so
its early night for us all, long day for her to get not very far in relative
terms, but matching trains, boats and busses adds hours to your journey.

Will update again tomorrow.

Steve

Mini Update

Well were off out again for the day so will update on what we get upto
later.

There is loads of bargains finishing today on our eBay store

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

Will be uploading a load more items this week as we need to step up a gear
and move some of the items we have otherwise we will never get out of the
house, we will have to hire an industrial unit for storage as it is at the
moment but would like to keep it a small one not a huge thing....

Anyway were off to the warehouse to get some essentials and then off to a
surprise, will tell all later.

Steve

Day Out

Well today has been a bit of a random day, we set off this morning to go to
the marina in Southport, but ended up at the Museum of Science and Industry.

From there the three of us had a leisurely lunch at Tiger Tiger. It was nice
just to sit and watch the world go by on a Saturday afternoon.

From there we ended up going to the range in Rochdale (told you it was a
random day out) It was nice to just stroll around the shops and but a couple
of unimportant things. We bought a knot fender/doorstop for the boat as I
really liked it.

It was then over to my parents to say hello to them and see what they were
upto.

From there it was off to Sainsburys for dinner items and then home.

This evening we haven't left the dining table yet as we are just putting the
world to rights.

Headache has been good today its not really been bothering me much I did
have a headache late this evening but we haven't really stopped much today
so I'm not surprised.

Tomorrow is another day and who knows what we will get upto, we may end up
going to the warehouse as there is a few things we need and have mentioned
it so much today that Natalya has said she would like to go (we also want to
go to see if we can get a Rosie to complete the Rosie and Jim set we have.

Will update again tomorrow

Steve x

Illness

Well today has been an odd day, Mark got back late last night from London
and didn't feel well at all.

This morning he was worse and when I went down to the doctors I made him an
appointment.

It was purely selfish, I cant be around Mark if he is ill, especially this
is the week after Chemo week as well.

If he's also ill he can't help me if I need his help. I know it all sounds
like me me me but on some occasions this is how it is. It was the same when
my mum was ill, she was practically banished from the house until she was
better so it's one rule for everyone.

I have upped my intake of my Echinacea and mark has too, he is also on a
case of antibiotics as a precaution.

The headaches are still with me but I'm just used to them now, and I'm now
down to a maximum of 4 Ibuprofen a day which gets me thorough.

We have a visitor this weekend too Natalya from BT Buddies
www.btbuddies.org.uk who is making her way back home from London.

Some of you may notice that there has been a problem with my blog over the
last few days day's, this is because of the program I use, they have had
problems and a number of my blog posts have disappeared, hopefully they
assure me now that they are all back and running smoothly again.

Right well am going to sign off and say goodnight, will update tomorrow.

Steve

Is it expensive or cheap

All I can say is its expensive to stay healthy, over the last two days I
have spent over £100 on supplements and vitamins. These have become the
mainstay of my existence at the moment and I honestly do feel that they are
doing me good.

After watching a couple of videos by Cheryl Broyles

on facebook and reading a number of other sources I decided to take a range
of supplements an vitamins to help me thoroygh my treatments etc. I have
been on these suppements since my diagnosis and have increased the nnumber I
take as I have gone along, I have read further information, and been told
various things so ihave followed the advice and have started thaking those
suppliments.

I now take around 10 different suppliments a day, all with their own uses.
I can honestly say that in a strange way I actually feel better and healthir
now than before I was diagnosed, so they must be doing something right for
me. That and every time I have a blood test they results are always
positive.

Anyway thats juts got me thinking, is it expensive to be healthy or is it a
smal price to pay? I know its a lot to shell out all at once, bit overall it
works out not expensive, and compare it to the fact that its keeping me
healthy, I would spend a whole lot more.

Mark also takes a numberof suppliments as we cant afford for him to pick up
any bugs and carry them, as he is in more or less constant contact with me,
so he has to stay healthy too, so he;s on 5 supliments and multi vitamins a
day, so far its keepin him well too.

I would urge anyone and ineed everyon to take at least a multi vitamin
tablet every day, and if your ill in any way they seek advice on what
suppliments you can take that will help you, there are loads of books out
there that state different foods and suppliment can help for various things,
I would read the books and follow their advice, its working for me, even
though it might only be a placebo its tricking my brian into being health -
then nver mind, lets keep the placebo effect going.

I just rattle if you shake me.....

Today I have been back in the office and and have had a great day, I managed
to clear loads and prep loads of stuff for collection tomorrow. We have new
staff in the office so was nice to get to meet them as have only sent them
emails so far.

Mark is due home any time now, he has been to 10 Downing Street today with
Mel Bryan to celebrate her winning the Big Society award.

Tomorrow is another day, dont know what am doing yet, if I am working from
home or from the office.

Will sign off now and update tomorroew.

Its Official

No not the fact that were mad (that's a given) the house is on the market.
The estate agent came this afternoon to sign all the paperwork.

That just means one thing, it could be relatively soon when we sell the
house and we get to go live on a barge. That sounds really easy but there is
lots of work to go till then.

There is the massive downsizing to complete for all of us and also we all
have to find somewhere to live if the house does sell pretty quick.

Its exciting now as things are starting to happen, and the motivation to
make things happen is starting to grow too, its a case of we have to do it,
but we also want to do it now too.

Today have worked pretty hard for the office as I had issues earlier in the
week I had quite a big to catch up with and it was for the guys in the
office so really needed. I managed to get that all completed and also quite
a bit of extra work done too., I am going into the office tomorrow to tidy a
load of things up, so will have a good day in the office with the guys.

Mark is off to London tomorrow to attend an event at No 10 Downing street
with his colleague Mel Bryan so will be a long day for him, as he is up
early and will be back late - I will probably be in bed though when he gets
back.

My headaches have been quite good today, I took 2 painkillers this morning
and that's all I have had so far, my headache is at the moment like a very
low dull ache so not something I feel the need to take painkillers for,
hopefully tomorrow should be the same.

I'm still on the steroids, which is causing me to keep the weight on, which
I am not happy about, but I understand that it's a needed at the moment and
its something I have to put up with. The other reason for the weight gain
is I'm doing less now. 8 Months ago we were always on the go, running around
a stage for 90 minutes at a time and always on the go, it kept up thinner.

Plans are underway for our costumes for Sheffield Pride, as we have very
little left out there and nothing that we have suitable for the event, so
it's back to the sewing table for us for a one night only costume, that will
be on eBay the day before its worn. I did have an idea to auction both
costumes on the day and give the money to charity, we will see how it works
out.

Anyway will sign off and update tomorrow.

Steve

Moving On

Well things have really started to happen at the house with regards to
moving on.

The photographs have been done and submitted to the estate agent for his
literature. So hopefully we should start having house viewings in the next
few weeks.

The eBay workload is ever increasing and there is now piles of items
everywhere that have ether been put on, awaiting to be put on or awaiting to
be posted. Its turning into a real production line. We will be ramping this
up in the next few days as the more we add to the stores the more we find.

I managed to get through my chemo week without any problems this month,
although the headaches are still with me, the Oncologist isn't to concerned
about them and said I shouldn't either, however I do worry about them as
they are constantly there, although they do go away with painkillers so they
can't be that bad.

I'm getting pretty bad as well at updating my blog, which I promised I
wouldn't, so over the next few days I'm going to make a concerted effort to
update at least once a day.

Anyway I have a pile of paperwork to complete so will get that done and will
update later.

Steve

Busy Weekend

Well this weekend appears to have flown by in a whirlwind of action.

I was in the office on Friday and managed to get loads done. Friday evening
though I was tired and two days in the office plus Chemo was taking its toll
on me.

Saturday afternoon we just got things done that needed doing round the
house. We also went into Salford to drop off the post for the items sold
that day. The eBay shop is going really well at the moment and I'm currently
putting loads of books on there all starting at 99p
http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

The house sale is slowly getting into gear and we meeting with the estate
agent in the week to sign documents etc, which means its happening and we
have to step up the downsizing.

One thing I wasn't happy about on Saturday was the argument I ended up
having with Mark. It is true you hurt the ones closest to you, and he does
get the brunt of a lot of things. Sometimes it feels like everyone is an
expert on how I should do thing, what I should be doing etc and it pisses me
off, I'm still compos mentis and able to make decisions for myself. All I
want is a normal life... I know things will never be as normal as they were
again, but like I said before my new normal is what I want. Just to plod on
and live my life quietly.

I suppose the steroids don't help either, they are making me pile on the
weight which I'm also unhappy about, hopefully I will be able to come off
them next month after my as round of chemo.

The steroids do also make me emotional and I am prone to snapping, which
again isn't a good thing.

Saturday Night we were off out - dressed as pirates... now I know you all
think am odd anyway but this was planned. It was my birthday present from
Nick and Geoff.

A murder Mystery trip aboard a steam train in Llangollen North Wales as
Pirates as a theme.

Random I know, but this actually made it even more funnier. The four of us
dressed as various types of pirates walking through Llangollen town centre
did raise an eyebrow or two, especially considering there was only us in
fancy dress at the time. Some others did eventually turn up n fancy dress
(about 50%) so we didn't look out of place.

The actors pocked on me all night though and all I could do was laugh, which
made the other three laugh too, and every time they asked me a question all
I could do was giggle, never mind we didn't win - we didn't even get it
remotely close but we did have a scream, and I won a bottle of wine because
it was my birthday and I had to stand in front of the rest of the crowd with
a few others and sing the Pirate Song...... The costumes packed away now
though and my pirate days will be reserved for the boat when we get it.

Today has been mainly eBay all day again, systematically adding things from
our collection, books, DVD's CD's will be next and then thre is a whole host
of household items to be photographed and lusted. We haven't even started on
the loft yet which is a weeks worth on its own.

Tanja is also going good guns on the eBay front and has a load of listings
of their own stuff, she is really getting into it.

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/sewwow/m.html?_trkparms=65%253A12%257C66%253A2%257C39
%253A1%257C72%253A4908
<http://shop.ebay.co.uk/sewwow/m.html?_trkparms=65%253A12%257C66%253A2%257C3
9%253A1%257C72%253A4908&rt=nc&_trksid=p3911.c0.m14&_sop=1&_sc=1>
&rt=nc&_trksid=p3911.c0.m14&_sop=1&_sc=1

She is also selling a fine range of Pet blankets all hand so you know your
pooch or your pussy will have an original.

This evening now I'm going to just finish the few books I have here and then
relax and watch some TV and then hopefully have an early night, as I didn't
sleep brilliantly well last night.

Tomorrow I'm still undecided whether to go into the office or work from
home, but I know my Chemo is kicking in now and so it will probably be from
home (I actually noticed this on Saturday night driving home, I was falling
asleep in the back of the car, something I am getting good at...)

Will update again tomorrow.

Steve x

Work

Today has been a relatively normal day, in the fact that I have been to
work. I like going to the office as it keeps me occupied and is a normal day
for me, I know people think am mad, but they are probably right....

This afternoon I weng for my regular masssage. I enjoy my massage and I
really do feel the beneift when I go.

Am back in the office again tomorrow as I have a conference call, this is my
way of slowly working my way back into work. I know I will probably never go
back full time but a couple of days a week would be enough to please both
mysleg and everyone else.

Chemo went rather uneventfull today which is what I wanted - regimented in
how I take them I didnt even feel sick today from my Anti Sickness drug. I
think some of that has to do with the fact I was occupied working, eithr way
only three more days to go this month and am done again.

Headaches have been a bit sporadic today, have only had 4 painkillers though
so am still in low numbers.

This evening I have been adding more items to the eBay store, its becoming a
daily task now for Tanja and myself, we are taking on the eBay world and
learning new ideas every day.

Anyway need to head off to bed, will update tomorrow.

Steve

Chemo Week again

Well today was the first day of this month's Chemo week, and touch wood, its
all gone well, I didn't even feel sick from my Anti-sickness drug which I
have to take fist.

I expressed my concerns about the headaches I have been getting and they
said its nothing to worry about as all my scans last time appeared to be OK
and going in the right direction and they are treatable with Painkillers so
nothing to worry about. At the end of the day there is a lot going on in my
head with all the treatments anyway so I should expect something at least.

My bloods were "Grand" as my oncologist puts it, so again that's a good
sign. It looks like were kicking the arse of this cancer at the moment and I
intend to keep it that way.

The great downsizing of the house is going well and we have become the
centre of the eBay world I am sure. Both Tanja and Lawrence are getting in
on the act now too and now that the sales are coming in for them they are
seeing how easy it is and how addictive it is too, so they will be adding
more stuff this week - will need to show Lawrence how to do it but he will
pick it up pretty easy.

It's a big postal run tomorrow to the post office as another load of our
costumes and DVD's have been sold, its looking pretty bare in the dressing
room now of costumes, but I'm sure there is still loads lurking in the back
there somewhere

Anyway, am off into the office tomorrow to block up the printing system (he
he) and then am off for my fortnightly massage, so a full day ahead so need
sleep.

Will update tomorrow

Steve x

Back to the rat race

Well today has been my first day back working from home for over a week, and
what a joy it was too....
My PC didn't want to work, it wouldn't let me access any f the applications
so I spent the majority of the morning watching our IT guys do their thing
from the office on my PC.
I was back on by lunch though so I managed to make a start on the day ahead.
I had over 2000 emails to deal with - they will be done when they are done
but I have managed to get the majority cleared this afternoon.
I now have to pront over 4000 invoices ready for the VAT submission, the
only problem is, the quicker I print them the quicker they come in, oh the
joys of a seasonal business.
Still it keeps me occupied and normal - which is exactly what I want to be
at the moment.
The headaches are still with me, they are like an old friend now, always
there, dependable and such, I just take two Pian killers and they trundle
off to their room for a few hours before coming back. Sometimes they stay
away for a few hours if I'm occupied others they come back really quickl.

our eBay store http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

is doing really well and I now make it a point of listing something every
day. At the moment I'm on DVD's and then will move onto books. We still have
loads of items in the dressing room to sell though but that needs
photographing, at least with DVD's and Books all the details are already in
the system so I can just add them on without any extra hastle.
At least by adding something every day its new items for people to come back
for every few day rather than just once a week. The other thing is it doesnt
cause havoc at the post office when I take them all dow, although nowadays
as the post is so high we have an account with the post office and we sort
all our own ut and all I have to do is take the bag of items in and hand it
over, no waiting or Old Ladies moaning that I am taling up their
morning.....

I'm back at the hospital tomorrow morning for this months Chemo run,. I hope
this month is not as bad as last month where I did have a number of sick
days over the five day period.
Anyway its an early morning tomorrow so will sign off and update tomorrow.
Steve x

Day out with the Husband

Today started as a relaxing day and then we decide we were going to go out
for the afternoon. It was nice just to spend time together as we have been
with someone else for the last couple of weeks, which is nice, but its also
nice to just be the two of us.

We ended up going for a drive and a picnic and we ended up at Sizergh Castle
near Cumbria.

Mark took his camera so the pictures are on his profile on Facebook.

My headache has been a pain in the arse today, I started the day without a
headache and I thought I was going to have a good day, however it wasn't to
be. It's been a sharp headache that just won't go, like a bad hangover - I
only wish it was a hangover as I know it will all be over tomorrow.

Still uploading stuff to eBay there is loads more DVD's on there now, still
loads more to go on, I'm trying to put something on at least every day so
that the items on there are constantly changing.

The dressing room is looking a little more empty now that we had a bumper
weekend of sales, we need another bulk upload weekend to do this again, but
its a case of the more we get out of there the easier it is to sort and
photograph stuff - that and we need the time, were constantly busy with one
thing or another, we need to set time apart to do it all.

Will sign off and update tomorrow

Steve

Royal Wedding....

Well didn't she look elegant in the dress....

Enough about her anyway it's my blog so will tell you what I have been upto.

We set out on Monday morning to Edinburgh where we were going to be staying
for a couple of days. We were joined by Nick and Geoff.

On the way to Edinburgh we stopped at Culzean Castle on the West Coast. The
place is simply stunning, I will put some pictures on the blog when Mark has
finished editing them.

From then it was a whistlestop week of Castles, houses and Ghost tours in
and around Edinburgh. We actually need a holiday to get over the time we
have been away.

It was nice to be out of town for a couple of days even though we haven't
stopped really and have done loads in the short time we have been there.

Yesterday we decamped from Edinburgh and moved on down the country to
Newcastle where we were staying for the night. We were attending Boulvard
which is Betty Legs Diamonds new venue. The show was good and was like
Funnygirs used to be and was funny too.

We were all tired so we were all in bed not much after midnight - I know
this is sad on a Friday night - the bed was comfortable, I was sleeping
really well and then

SIRENS

Somebody or something had set the hotel fire alarms off at 3.30 this morning
so a full evacuation was underway.

We made our way outside in the cold with everyone esle. Fortunately we were
not out for long but that was it, I couldn't sleep much after that.

This morning it was up and out for breakfast in the hotel and then start the
slow journey home.

For us it wasn't a rest in though as we had over 40 items to package that
had been sold in the last 24 hours, so it was a quick print, pack and off to
the post office.

This afternoon and evening we have done very little. Just relaxed and caught
up on emails etc. Mark has been playing with some of the 600 pictures he has
taken over the week.

The headaches have been a bit off and on over the last few day yesterday I
only had 1 painkiller, today I have had a few so it's all a bit hit and
miss. The number is coming down slowly though and the steroids have been
reduced for 2 weeks now so hopefully things will look good on my next Chemo
appointment on Wednesday.

Anyway I'm tired now so heading off to bed.

Hopefully tomorrow will be another sunny day.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve x

Another long day.

Today has been a hectic day and we have fitted in loads. This morning we headed off to a Scottish Trust property in the centre of the city. The house was a brilliant and it passed an hour or two. From here it was time to split up and go shopping.

After more shopping we headed back to the hotel for a quick shower and change before we walked back in and had a Chinese for dinner. It wad then time to go on heist tour if the day which was the double dead tour. Two really haunted placed on one evening. Both Mark and myself felt a presence In one of the Locations. Anyway it's not so easy to do this blog when your tired and the keypad is odd so will sign off.

Steve x

Sent from my iPhone

Edinburgh

Well am writing this on my iPhone so if it's a bit scrambled then am sorry.

Yesterday we set off to Scotland and we finally hit our first destination dour hours layer Culzeal castle on the west coast was lovely and we enjoyed a few hours exploring the house and cliff top gardens of the magnificent property.oh how the other half lives.

From there it was back in car and over to Edinburgh where we were spending the week.

Unfortunately I fell asleep in the cat an ended up with a sore neck and headache. A couple of painkillers and I was ok though.

Once we had checked into the hotel we went into the city And walked unto the castle and then back sown to the Mitre pub for dinner. Haggis Neeps and Tatties was had by all and was nice too.

Back to the hotel to change and freshen up and we headed back into town for a few quiet drinks on Rose St .

Early night for all after that ready for loads today

Sent from my iPhone

And were set

Well that's it, it's been a long day as I was up at the crack of a sparrows
fart so that I could go to my mum's photo shoot in town.

It was nice for her, as it was also her birthday as well as mine...

The shoot was over and done with by lunch so we went home and had lunch with
the rest of the folks, it was then time to start packing for our week long
expedition to the wilds of Scotland - or Edinburgh for everyone else. The
amount of clothing we are taking is silly, but you do have to prepare
yourself for anything up there as the weather can change at the drop of a
hat.

It's also been my birthday today so have had a lovely day, and had some
lovely gifts from my friends and family, the next week in Scotland is the
best part of my birthday - even though that's not what it's for its just
well timed.

That's it now though all packed, Nick and Geoff (who are also coming with
us) haven packed too and so were ready.

Up tomorrow early so that we can go visit a Castle on the way and then onto
Edinburgh.

Will update over the week from my IPhone as and when I can, will try and put
pictures in as well if I can......

Till the next time

Steve xx

Shopping

Today has been a mixed and busy day. We had some appointments this morning
and then we have been shopping

We popped all over town and bought the most random of things - as we usually
do and even managed to stop ourselves from buying lots of things we like, as
downsizing and shopping don't go hand in hand. There is some lovely items
out there suitable for barges, which I'm sure we will be buying when we get
when we buy the barge, which I hope won't be too long away.

The headaches have been around all day today but I didn't take any
painkillers till late this afternoon, so again thats a good sign, and I had
to take some about 10pm as I am tired and the headache has come back, will
be asleep shortly so won't make a difference.

Am up early in the morning to go with my mum to her photo shoot which we got
her for her last birthday, so tomorrow it's my birthday and my mum's
birthday too, so who knows what will happen, and what others have got
planned.

The eBay stores are coming along well and were learning all the time about
the little things that make a shop a success, one of these is OOAK which
means One of a Kind, which all Tanja's Handmade items are. The link to her
shop is http://shop.ebay.co.uk/sewwow/m.html?_ipg=50
<http://shop.ebay.co.uk/sewwow/m.html?_ipg=50&_sop=12&_rdc=1>
&_sop=12&_rdc=1 There is a whole list of unique things as well as CD's and
DVD's. She is also selling material suitable for a whole host of uses, from
Drag frock to bridesmaids dresses, more will be added over the next week as
she sorts stuff out.

Our shop at http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562
is also going well, and I have uploaded a number of other DVD's this evening
there is some classics on here that we have had for years but are all in
brilliant condition all starting at 99p.

Anyway enough of the sales pitch, need to go to bed now as am tired and like
I said I need to be up at 7am.

Will update during the day tomorrow.

Steve x

And again

Well I did it again, I forgot to do a Blog yesterday. We were just so busy
yesterday that it slipped my mind, I was doing a thousand things at once.

We have estate agents coming to the houses today to do the valuations, so we
had the house tidy to do yesterday, and as we have been downsizing and eBay
and such there is piles of stuff everywhere.

It's amazing how much stuff we have actually got between us all, and how
much stuff we have decided that we can get rid of.

The while process is going to take weeks as when we have cleared one area
there is another to do, and we decide that something else can be sold.

We also cleaned the car yesterday ready for Mondays trip to Edinburgh with
Nick and Geoff.

That's one more job I have to do though I need to pack too, clothes for a
week, in Edinburgh generally means a whole wardrobe as the weather is
changeable at the drop if a hat, you can be in your thermals in the morning
and then in your Speedo's in the afternoon - not that your likely to see me
in Speedo's any time soon.

Anyway better crack on got the post to do from the auctions from yesterday,
and some more have just finished now.

It's all go.

Will update later after I have put some more on eBay.

Steve x

Yesterdays Blog

OK so I forgot to do a blog yesterday, so here it is.

Yesterday I was in the office for the second day on the run, which was good,
even though it did tire me out.

I feel better when I'm tired out, as I tend to sleep better than if I work
from home, going to work actually uses some of the energy that I have got
and this is something don't do when am working from home, so even though am
tired I don't feel the tiredness the same.

So going to work does have its benefits.

The eBay store is going well and sales are coming in on a daily basis now,
even Tanja's store is getting hits and bids so that's a good thing for her
as it can be disheartening if you upload all that stuff then it doesn't
sell.

I did really well with the headaches yesterday too, I took painkillers first
thing in the morning then late afternoon and have had nothing since, and the
headache this morning isn't too bad - much better than yesterday anyway, so
will try and not take any this morning and see how I go.

Today, were all off and I will be doing some more eBay and tidy the house,
and pack for next week, which will probably include doing a mountain of
washing too, even though I have been doing it every day this week - I'm sure
someone leaves all their washing in our washing basket....

Will update later

Steve x

Iphone

Well today I have been in the office for the majority of the day, which is
really good as even though it tires me out, I feel like I have achieved
something with my day rather than when I work from home, as I can see the
work being finished.

I have also been trying to get reception on my phone. I have changed from
Ornage over to 02 curtasy of my new IPhone (which was my birthday presnt
from my mum and dad.

Its not as easy as you would think, but at least it gives me something to
fiddle with for the next few days.

Anyway I'm going to keep this short as am off to bed, need to get up and
sort myself out ready for another day in the office.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve x

Day with Mum

I spent this afternoon with my mum which was lovely. We used to have our
random shopping trips years ago but haven't for a while, so was nice.

The sun has been shining today too which always makes me feel good, however
the weather has been heavy today which always gives me a headache (joy) and
so today I have had a double whammy headache but I have been without
painkillers for the majority of the day so again, that is a good thing, the
headache is like an ice-cream headache )when you get that sharp pain in your
head when you eat something cold)

My Mum bought me an IPhone for my birthday and I have changed suppliers too,
which for me is brilliant as I couldn't wait to get away from Orange. They
even had the cheek to put me through to the retention centre and the person
at the end of the line after reading all the issues on my account offered me
to stay with them, they didn't offer me any incentives just their word that
the service would be improved.

Anyway I, in no uncertain terms would be staying with Orange and asked for
my release code.

Anyway I will be the customer of O2 for the foreseeable future .

Anyway I'm tired now, so will be off to bed, will update tomorrow

Steve

Post

Well after this morning's little grey cloud things did get better - apart
from the headache.

Its constantly there now and will definitely have to say something to the
oncologist when I next visit next month. Not long now till my next run of
Chemo, it goes so quick.

This evening both me and Mark gave been working on the eBay store and have
loads to post out, he has also made a Blanket for a friend which will be
speeding its way to her tomorrow via the brilliant postal service.

Nothing much more to report though this evening and would like to finish
this before midnight if I can.

Dont forget to check out our eBay store - more items have gone on this
evening and will be doing so over the next few days.

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

I have to get that cheeky link in there somewhere....

Right will update tomorrow with more exciting things (if I find something
exciting that is) otherwise it will just be another day in the little life
of me.

Till then

Steve x

I Want to be....

33

I woke up this morning - with a headache as usual, but also a little grey
cloud hanging over me, I soon got rid of it, but it did leave me thinking.

My prognosis of 12-18 months, all be it a bit pants, takes me to March 2012.
One month before my 33rd birthday.

Now when I was younger I never wanted to get "old" and the 30's was old in
my eyes. But now I want to be 33, I want to be 53 and so on.

With my birthday coming up next weekend (just a reminder for you all.... its
next Sunday) it just made me think.

I have promised myself that I will get to 33, and am having a party, and it
will be a right royal two fingers up to Cancer as I can then say, at least I
beat you.

Team Steve 1 - Cancer 0

That's my little grey cloud for today, its blown away though now, and the
sun is shining through.

Will update later.

Steve

BBQ weather

Well today has been a busy day and we have managed to sort all sorts out.

I had a sleep in this morning as I was tired, although I woke up feeling
slow, so may have possibly slept for too long.

The headache was there this morning when I woke up, but I'm just getting
used to it now, I take two painkillers and just get on with it.

We went food shopping this morning and ended up at World Foods in Cheetham
Hill, which is brilliant, as it sells all sorts of weird and wonderful food.
We also bought food for a BBQ this evening.

It was nice to have a BBQ as it shows that summer is on its way, which is
always a good thing.

We have both been adding more items to eBay too. We are methodically working
our way through the house and adding everything and anything, who would have
thought that downsizing could be so hectic, at this rate its going to take
us weeks, and we haven't even started on the loft yet....

The whole eBay thing isn't just confined to me and Mark, as Tanja has been
putting her CD's on eBay too and has managed to put over 50, items today,
were slowly becoming an eBay family

To check out what items we have got go to:

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

to check out what Tanja is listing go to

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/sewwow/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

Tanja will also be uploading a load of hand-mad items and materials, ideal
for drag and theatrical costumes. You will have to keep a check on what she
has uploaded, she is turning into a "One woman eBay machine"

Have another busy week ahead planned, as would like to go into the office
both Wednesday and Thursday this week to sort out a problem with one of our
suppliers, it's an issue that I have been dealing with since I started the
company so I am still being involved even though I no longer manage the
account.

Anyway am off to bed, will update tomorrow.

Steve x

Getting Older

Well tonight has been a lovely night with Friends, but it has made me think
about something.

The people that we had dinner with Dan, yannis and Graham have been friends
for Years, Dan especially, and we only knew each other socially on the
scene, and drinking was the name of the game.

Now we're going to their house which they have just moved into and having a
sociable dinner.

We have done this a lot lately and it's just odd how you change as you get
older, I'm quite happy to stay in now of an evening and have friends round
for dinner and drinks. It's not the illness that has done this to me, Mark
is the same, we just enjoy socialising in a comfortable atmosphere - perhaps
were all just getting older.

On a health note I didn't start this morning very well, even though I was up
at 8am. I just felt like I was running on low batteries and everything was
just slow. I just couldn't get motivated and everything I did seemed to take
much longer.

Because I knew I was out this evening I had a nap this afternoon to try and
refresh myself, and it did actually work, although now I am tired and will
be asleep very soon after hitting the sheets.

The headaches is still there, but again I'm living with it, and just take
painkillers as and when I need.

The sale of all our items is continuing, and were adding more items every
day, one man's junk is another man's treasure as they say, and it definitely
shows.

We have both been looking at Barges again over the last couple of days and
have more or less decided what type were after, we just have to sort it all
out now.

Anyway am off to bed, and hope to have a sleep in in the morning so that am
fresh for the day- Maybe tomorrow I wont have a headache as it will have
been a week since I have been on the reduction of steroids, time will tell,

Will update tomorrow.

Steve

Headache 2

Well today I gave been playing catch up with work, I managed to clear my
inbox of everything that was in there and have sorted a few things out for
next week too.

I haven't been able to shake the headache though today, its constantly been
there all day but have tried not to take any painkillers, will have some
just before I go to bed now so that it doesn't keep me awake.

Have added some more D of our DVD's to the eBay shop, still piles of them to
go. Mark has also been adding other drag items.

The shop has been busy today we only mentioned that we hadn't sold a wig
yesterday and then today within the space of 15 minutes we sold 3.

Sue and Lynne came round tonight with gifts for us, they always bring random
gifts all with a funny meaning, and they always cheer all of us up. Today we
have got a teddy and a bubble wand.

We have been telling them Drag Queen Names and they were amazed at some of
those that we came up with. It was a bit of a scream as they are both older
ladies and haven't heard any of these before.

Anyway I'm off to bed, as would like to get as much sleep as possible, I'm
not setting my alarm tomorrow, will get up when I get up.

Will update more tomorrow.

Steve x

Headache

Today has been a headache day again, but I have been able to ignore it for
the majority of the day.

Today has been a relatively quiet day other than that and have been able to
add more of our stuff to eBay. I have been uploading a lot of my DVD's some
of which I bought before I met Mark and haven't seen since they were bought.

They will all be going on eBay
http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562 so if your in
the mood for a mooch and want some random DVD's then go and check them out
as there is there is something for everyone on there.

There really isn't much else to say today, bit of a boring day. I might go
to the office tomorrow depends how I feel, although saying that two of the
team have got a cold so will see in the morning.

Am off to bed now for an early night as I am tired again, I had a nap this
morning too.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve x

Back to the office

Well today I have been in the office for the majority of the day and it was
a good day, I managed to get so much done, it's amazing how quick I get
stuff done in the office compared to home because of the PC, Just one of the
things I have to put up with I sippse.

I would like to go back to work on a more pemanant basis, but I'm just going
to have to phase that back in. I know you probably all think I am mad for
wanting to go back to work, even part time but like I have said before its
the norm for me, its what I do, and am sure if a lot of you thought about it
you would think the same.

Today I have had my comedown headache for the majority of the day, nomatter
what I did I couldnt shake it. I'm getting good though at just ignoring it.
Hopefully over the next couple of days they will slowly subside even more
and I can drop again on the steroids, as I'm thinking the lower the quantity
I am taking the easier it will be to come off them totally.

One thing that really got me going today was an old woman at the bus stop. I
could hear her chatting with her friend about a person with a scar on thire
head, she was stating that it was probably becaise he was a fighter.

Of course they were refering to my surgery scar. I listened to the
conversation for a while and was saddened by how wrong and defamatory an
older woman could be, and I eventually tuend round and asked hr was she
taling about me, and was rather blunt and in a loud voice told her that the
scar wasnt from fighting but actually from surgery,and that the surery was
ro diagnose Terminal Brain Cancer. Her friend was more shocked and said
"told you so" and she tried to appologise profusely. Obviously she looked
stupid now in front of a large number of people. She kept saing sorry but I
told her that I wasnt interested and that she should keep her negative and
incorrect opinions to herself.

It doesnt bother me any more that people can see my scar though, I nolonger
wear a hat when I go out, I'm not bothered about what people think about me,
or say about me, I would just like people to know the truth and not asume
whatever it is they want to assume. Sadly the truth is there I cant hide
from it, so people around me may as well know the truth too.

Anyway its time I was off to bed.

Loads to do tomorrow

Will update during thr day tomorrow if I have anthing I think I shoudl blog
about before I forget - which is highly likel knowning me.

Steve

Downsizing

Evening/Morning all.

Well today has been a bit of an odd day, the headache is still there and am
used to that now.

Have been thinking about what we can add to the eBay store in order to help
us downsize. Have done the post run too of all the items that have already
been sold.

It's really odd seeing all our possessions going to other people, but am
used to that now with selling all our drag.

My mum came down this evening as she does every Tuesday, its nice to see her
as otherwise I wouldn't get all the gossip or get to see her any other time.

Other than that its been a bit of a quiet day, I haven't been that tired but
I am getting that way now, and Mark has just found me some more DVD's to put
on.

Am off to the office tomorrow so will be heading off to bed shortly so that
am fresh for tomorrow.

Will update tomorrow night when I get back from the office.

Steve x

Smile

Well today has been another good day, even though I woke up this morning
with a headache, this is becoming the norm now so I just get on with it.

I managed to get loads done for the office as Mondays is a busy day as we
have to catch up from the weekend.

This evening after dinner I have been uploading more items to our eBay shop
http://shop.ebay.co.uk/justtheone4u/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562. We have
loads of DVD's that we no-longer watch so they are all going on there, it's
sad that you spend all that money on something and then it sits in a
cupboard somewhere never to see the light of day again. Some of the DVD's
haven't been watched since before I met Mark, so think it's about time to
let them go to a new home. Will be doing loads this week as we have loads
there. CD's will probably follow next.

This whole life laundry and de-clutter is really addictive, I find myself
thinking about what else we can sell. We have the loft to go through yet so
I'm sure there will be loads of tuff up there that will see its way to eBay,
everything from cables for things to ornaments. Even Tanja and Lawrence are
getting into the eBay game and have set up their own account, after all its
not just us who has to downsize to move out of the house, they do too and
they have considerably more possessions than us.

I haven't been as tired today though having done what I have done, which I
see as a goo sign, this sort of happens every month. The week after Chemo is
a bit of a washout and then I start to pick up the following week, well am
picking up and even the headaches are decreasing slightly. I know my body is
going through a lot at the moment so am just taking every day as it comes.

I have been linked on Facebook to a woman in the states Cheryl Browley, who
I mentioned yesterday. She has been a GBM survivor for almost 11 years now
and provides talks on her positivity and provides help to others in the same
boat.

One thing I was asked yesterday is why I still use my Enid Whiplash account
on Facebook and not my own personal account.

The answer is simple.

Whiplash has far more friends than Steve does (and the steve account was
closed down way back) and everyone knows Whiplash, and its this profile that
people come to see my progress. If I ever message people now I always sign
off as Steve, people still call me Enid, bit a lot of people are now calling
me Steve, it's the same with Mark and his Bobbie profile.

Anyway got another productive day coming up tomorrow so will be heading off
to bed shortly. I know when its time to go now as my eyes go all funky when
am tired, so that's my que for bed.

Will update tomorrow with what am upto.

Steve

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR CANCER SURVIVAL

This was posted on the BT Buddies Website, and it is a lighter way at
looking at your illness, You could easily replace the word Cancer with any
other illness in all honesty and the meaning is true again.
Just something to lighten up the day, now that the sun has disappeared
again.
Will update later
Steve


The Ten Commandments for Cancer Survival

1. Thou shalt regard the word, "Cancer", as exactly that: a word. Nothing
more, nothing less. For its original meaning hast changed mightily over the
years, as have such words as Smallpox, Tuberculosis. and Polio, all once
dreaded ailments, now no longer fearsome for, to them, hast come The Answer.
And thus, too, shall go thy cancer. The Answer shall come to those who shall
be present to hear it. Be present to hear it when it comes.
2. Thou shalt love thy Chemotherapy thy radiation,
thy monoclonal antibodies, thy vaccines, and thy other treatments even as
thyself, for they are thy friends and champions. Although they may exact a
toll for their endeavors, they are oft most generous in the favors they
bestow.
3. Thou shalt participate fully in thy recovery. Thou shalt learn all the
details of thy ailment, its diagnosis, its Prognosis
its treatments, conventional and alternative. Thou shalt discuss them openly
and candidly with thy oncologist and shalt question all thou do not
comprehend. Then, thou shalt cooperate intelligently, and knowledgeably with
thy doctor.
4. Thou shalt regard thy ailment as a temporary detour in thy life and
shalt plan thy future as though this detour had not occurred. Thou shalt
never, at no time, nohow, regard thy temporary ailment as permanent. Thou
shalt set long-term goals for thyself. For thou will verily recover and thy
believing so will contribute mightily to thy recovery.
5. Thou shalt express thy feelings candidly and openly to thy loved ones
for they, too, are stricken. Thou shalt comfort and reassure them for they,
too, needest comforting and reassurance, even as thou doest.
6. Thou shalt be a comfort to thy fellow-cancerites, providing knowledge,
encouragement, understanding and love. Thou shalt give them hope where there
may be none, for in hope lies their salvation. And by doing so, thou
providest comfort for thyself, as well.
7. Thou shalt never relinquish hope, no matter how thou may feelest at
that moment, for thou knowest, in the Deep recesses of
thy heart, that thy discouragement is but fleeting and that a better day
awaits thee, perhaps tomorrow, perhaps the day after tomorrow.
8. Thou shalt not regard thy ailment as the sum total of thy life but as
merely a part of it. Fill thy life with other diversions, be they mundane,
daring, altruistic, or merely amusing. To fill thy life with thy ailment is
to surrender to it.
9. Thou shalt maintain, at all times and in all circumstances, thy sense
of humor, for laughter lightens thy heart and hastens thy recovery. This is
not an easy task, sometimes seemingly impossible, but it is a goal well
worth the endeavor.
10. Thou shalt have enduring and unassailable faith, whether thy faith be in
a Supreme Being, in Medical Science, in Thy Future, in Thyself, or in
Whatever. Steadfastly sustain thy faith for it shall sustain thee.

Paul H. Klein, September 3, 1993

End of the weekend

Well its Sunday night and I'm off to bed early.

It's been a tiring weekend, even though I haven't done that much. The eBay
items are going on thick and fast at the moment in readiness for our life
downsizing. I have been going through a box today that has all birthday and
event cards in for me and Mark. It brings back memories, and is something
that we would like to keep, so that's one box already ready to move.

People are now realising that we mean business when we say we are moving to
a barge, they think were cuckoo - they are probably right but its something
that makes our life a whole lot simpler, so thats what were doing.

My headaches are still around, they are like old friends now that just don't
know when to go home. They longer and bother me in the respect that they are
just there, I don't want to keep taking painkiller but today I have,
although I only take one at a time and that does help.

Hopefully over the next week or so the headaches will slow down and go back
to normal as my body gets used to the reduced steroid levels.

Its two weeks today to my birthday, which I am and am not looking forward
too.

I'm looking forward to it, as it's my birthday (and my mum's too) and I
enjoy my birthday, but I'm also not looking forward to it as it marks a
milestone in my life, milestones are more and more significant at the
moment, especially with the treatment I am getting from the hospital etc.
Even though they have said that the treatment is looking positive and things
are looking good inside my head, the fact is still there and the figures
they have given me are still there. The fact that I am also not through
with the treatment and anything could happen at any time still gets to me
occasionally.

But I'm strong and I plan to plod on for as long as I can, and am looking
forward to my 33rd birthday next year, where I plan on having a much bigger
party, the dates of my birthday fall one month after the "given" prognosis
dates of a GBM so will be a celebration all round - despite the fact I will
be 33, that I cant help I will just have to admit to being old......

Anyway I'm tired now and everyone else is in bed, its times like these when
am sat here, tired, think about things that I think about all this, and the
illness, I also read other peoples stories to see how they cope, some are
good and some are bad, but the one thing that always shines through is the
fight of everyone else, and the support network they have around them, even
if that support network is just one person, its still there and its all that
person needs to keep going.

My support network is brilliant, right from the hospital staff and Macmillan
and my office who have been brilliant through, and then down to my close
network of friends and family, these have been amazing - also stressfull at
times but overall they have been amazing. It has got to a stage now where
things are relatively back to normal in my life - or as normal as they ever
will be again and the support is there if I need it.

My brother who is in the army is of to Italy tomorrow as support for the UK
troops who are dealing with the whole Gadafi fiasco, I'm not one for
politics, but that's what it all comes down too, so will see him now when he
next comes home.

Anyway will sign off now and update tomorrow, who know I may do a lunchtime
update again.

Steve x

Tired

Today has been a long day as I have been tired and I'm still suffering the
effects of me reducing my steroids. I have had to take some painkillers this
morning but have avoided them for the rest of the day, thisis good at least
I'm not constantly taking them.

We have been linked to Cheryl Broyles in the states, who like me has a Grade
4 GBM and has suffered this 5 times now and each time has fought back and
is now a motivational speaker for others.
http://www.btbuddies.org.uk/stories-of-hope/118-cheryl-b/1565-what-ive-learn
ed-as-a-gbm-brain-tumor-cancer-survivor-from-cheryl-broyles.html is a link
to a motivational speech that she has given.

This woman is an inspiration to not only people with any form of illness but
also anyone on a daily basis. I must admit that this is religious speech,
and I'm not religious, if you listen to what she says though there is a
meaning, you have to interpret it as you wish. Her other videos are
different.

On other things in my life. The plans to downsize to a barge are still
continuing and we have started looking at the mammoth task that is
downsizing, and going through all your wildly possession. I have asked
myself the simple question "Do I really need this" I'm not attached to
anything much materialistic these days, I have said there is only a few
photographs and personal items I would want to take with me, no more than a
storage box if the truth be know.

Anyway more sorting tomorrow, so am of to bed.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve x

Life Priorities

Today has been the start if a our life de-clutter, now I know I started this
when I was first diagnosed with certain ex-friends and such, but we have now
started to do it with our physical possessions too.

As a lot of you will know we have decided to simplify our life and downsize
- having a nice big house is lovely, but it also means responsibilities as
well. So were downsizing DRASTICLY and moving to a barge/canal boat just the
two of us.

This means disposing of the majority of our physical possessions and only
taking with us what we really want to have around us. Therefore the eBay
store over the next few weeks will be filled with our life not just that of
Bobbie and Whiplash as It is at the moment.

Its amazing when you start to look at things how much stuff you accumalate
and keep with you - well not for us any more.

The idea behind all this is to simplyfy our lives and live happier. The
businesses is going to have to move to a Unit somewhere as we will be
building that up and eventually it will end up in a shop somehere so thats
not an issue. Its everything else. The whole Trouble Roadshow, soundsystems,
lighting etc needs to go (if anyone is interested give me a shout).

We watched a video the other night of a woman in the states that has had the
same diagnosis as me and she has so far survived for 10 years. She beleives
in 3 types of Medicines.

1. Western Medicine - Bog standard treatment, Radio and Chemotherapy
etc.

2. Nutritional and supplimentary treatment - Vitamins etc

3. Stress Reduction - Whatever stressed her out has been kicked out of
her life

The first two I do/have completed anyway so thats easy, the third is easy to
think about not as easy to achive but we have started. She moved to the
mountains to live a stress free life, were mooving to a barge.

And that in a nutshell is where were upto, so the mammoth task of downsizing
has begun.

Will update tomorrow when we have done more photography and eBay uploading.

Steve x

And so the comedown begins....

I forgot to do an update yesterday as I was so tired in the morning I fell
asleep.

I was intending to go into the office in town but I sat down after breakfast
and fell asleep I finally got into work just after lunch. I then worked till
about 3.30 when Mark was in town and picked me up. I was really tired though
and shouldn't have gone into the office but I just wanted to get out of the
house. I did actually achieve a lot whilst I was there though, so that's a
bonus all round.

The comedown also started yesterday, which isn't good but I knew was going
to happen. As I'm slowly coming off the steroids I get withdrawal symptoms,
this in turn causes headaches etc. I knew what to expect but still not
wanted, hopefully as I'm doing it a lot slower this time it will be a lot
easier. I took two Paracetamol this morning as I had a dirty type of
headache (like a hangover) but thats cleared now.

It's not too bad if I'm working as I keep my mind on something else.

One thing I have noticed this morning is my hair is growing back (at last)
its not ginger, or any other colour, but its growing frizzy. It's not
straight like the rest of my hair, and the part at the back looks all fuzzy
and I simply cant do anything with it. At least its growing back though. It
may sort itself out as it grows more... If not it will be the GHD's for me.

Will update later

Steve

just a quick one

Well it's been a busy evening, there has been quite a few sales on the eBay
and Shop front and that's all I have done.

Nick and Geoff popped round earlier and we were discussing our trip to
Edinburgh at the end of the Month, we will need a holiday by the time we
come back because we want to do so much.

Headache is kicking in slowly now, its because am still sat at a computer
and am tired so am going to sign off and say will update again in the
morning.

Till then

Ciao Amigos

Steve

Lunchtime Update

I'm getting used to these lunchtime updates...

This morning has been really productive I have done loads for the office and
I can see the summer quickly approaching us now, it is going to be so busy,
and in one respect I'm glad I am able to work from home so that I am not
distracted by all and sundry, I can just work through my inbox at a cool
pace, although I did speed through it this morning.

I have loads of invoices to print off but as I share a printer with the rest
of the team I have to do them in batches, never mind, again keeps me
occupied.

Have had some more work come in for www.DragQueenSuperstore.com I need an
act for Stoke on Satirday night, the best thing is its throgh an onother
agent so looks like the word is out and they know I'm the provider of Drag
Artists.

More work on the shop has been done not that you can see any of it, but it
is there, and hopefully tonight I will get the rest of the stock on there.

The eBay store is slowly ticking over and we have a load of new stock to
photograph which will be going on at the weekend.

I am on day two of my reducing steroid dose, and at the moment I havent seen
any diffrenece in myself, I still have a slight headache but thats just my
normal day to day living now., and it is getting better every day so again
am still not taking painkillers.

Nothing much else to update really, will update later with how I get on in
the rest of the day.

Steve

End of another day

Well my mum has just left with her dodgy leg and I'm going to do this blog
and head off to bed, as I m really tired, hopefully I will be able to sleep
all the way through tonight.

My headache is still at a minimum and I haven't had pain killers for 4 days
now, so that's all good.

The best thing about not having pain killers is the side effect on my
digestive system, which is now slowly kicking back into action - pain
killers = constipation which is not nice at all.

I have also started on my reducing dose of steroids today too so will give
that a week or so to see how that goes.

I want to go into the office on Thursday as I haven't been in for a while
and I am missing them all and I feel disjointed from the office.

Mark is sat at the table blinging up a top for a friend which looks really
nice. He enjoys doing stuff like that - I do too when I have the patience.

I have been working on more of the sites today www.dragqueensuperstore.com
and www.justtheone4u.co.uk so these should see a massive improvement in the
next few days, there just isn't enough time in the day in which to do
everything and some of the things I want to do take 24 hours to process so
it's not an instant fix.

Right well am off to bed after I have linked this blog to my Facebook so
night night all and will update tomorrow.

Steve x

Lunch Update

Well what a night last night was, I don't think I was suppose to sleep at
all, first I needed the loo, then I had heartburn, then I was too warm,
then, well you get the idea, I just couldn't sleep for more than an hour or
so, so I was really tired this morning when my alarm went off.
I only wish I had something on my mind at least I could say that was what
was keeping me awake, but I'm pretty clear headed at the moment and not
worried about anything.
This morning though has been really productive and have managed to sort
loads for the office, although for the last hour or so there has been an
issue where my computer simply says no, and its been really slow.
Have had some more ideas for http://www.dragqueensuperstore.com/ and
http://www.justtheone4u.co.uk/ and its all behind the scenes stuff but stuff thats
really important, so have made a note of that and will work on it later. I
make so many notes for the sites at the moment and follow various links that
I now have one pad for them all.
Will update later as my mum is down this evening for dinner as she does
every Tuesday.
Till then
Steve x

its the end of the day.

Well its the end of the day and I intend to be in bed very very shortly.

I have had a tiring day but a good day as have managed to get loads done,
which always makes me feel better as at least I have then achieved something
with my day.

Will be back to my desk tomorrow morning and hopefully have another busy
day, the time passes much quicker if I'm busier and it's what I am used too.
Working from home does have its benefits though, although I try and use the
work as a distraction.

One thing that has been pointed out to me today, and I have realised it
myself but not thought about it, is my reading speed has slowed down since
my opperation, its not something thats a major issue but something I will
let the oncologist know on my next visit. It sounds daft but I just dont
skim read like I used to any more I read the whole thing. Will probably make
me read things properly now rather than skimming and making it up as I go.
Will update on that one - maybe its just one of the side effects of having
my head fiddled with as I'm still only just over 6 months after my surgery.

Still on the head front I havent had painkillers again today, which I'm
loving as I hate taking them, lets hope the headaches that I do have
continue to decrease and I can not have them alltogether. I just hope that
this week when I start to reduce my steroids they dont come back. I'm going
to reduce them much slower though this time so fingers crossed I wont have
any nasty comedowns as with previous times.

Another thing I have noticed over the last few days is, my life has gone
back to normal, or as normal as it ever was/will be. People don't just phone
up randomly now every few day, the emails have slowed down, the Facebook
messages etc have slowed down too. It sounds awful of me to say it but its
great. Its as though I don't have an illness that people have to ask about.
Although it's still nice when people hone like they used to every so often,
I suppose there is a fine line between the two.

Anyway that's enough of me rambling, I might have slowed down at reading but
my typing hasn't been effected even though all the words are misspelt
(that's always been like that not a side effect of the surgery, spelling was
never my strong point, you should get a text of me when am tired, even
code-breakers cant figure them out)

Anyway again, will update tomorrow

Steve xx

PS Hello to my mother who I know reads this blog in her dressing gown every
morning..... Boy s that a dodgy nightie is that beans or a egg down the
front? must get you a new one for your birthday - Webcams are brilliant for
spying on your old folks... J

Lunch

Well its lunchtime and I'm feeling OK.

I'm a little tired but that's something I have become to expect. The best
thing I have can say is I haven't had any pain killers for 3 and half days.
Which is really good, I still have a slight headache but not anything I
think I should be taking painkillers for. If I can avoid using loads of
drugs then I will, as I put so much into my body with all my other
treatments it causes other issues.

I'm so glad that today is Chemo free though as I can get back to normal and
not have such a structured day, eat, hour wait, anti sickmess, hour wait,
chemo, hour wait, ear, feel sick, so on and so on.

Anyway have loads to do and its lunchtime so will update later.

Steve

Emailing: IMG00091-20110403-1533, IMG00090-20110403-1531

I forgot to put the pictures in of the Church.

Steve

Small Church

One thing o forgot to mention yesterday in my Blog was our little visit to
the little Church.

Its officially the world's smallest church - or so Nick tells us.

If you blink you miss it as its surrounded by trees on the side of the road.

We made our little pilgrimage yesterday on the way home.

The two pictures enclosed are of the church and of the blurb, I forgot to
take one of the sign that showed the times of services - not that you could
get many people in there it was seating for 6 only.

Anyway nice little bit of history though.

Will update later

Steve

End of Chemo Week

Well that's it for another month, my Chemo is all over and I'm free for
another 23 days. I can honestly say this month I am glad to see the back of
it.

Have had a few issues this week with the Chemo and Anti Sickness drugs, and
today I feel shattered and like I have run a million miles.

Never mind its don and dusted now, I know I need to tak my anti sickness no
matter what and the fact it makes me feel sick for a while is something I
have to put up with, its better than wiping me out and making me sick all
day if I don't take them.

I didn't update yesterday as we were so busy, we had friends coming over for
dinner so we had to tidy up and I helped Mark prep the dinner, it was nice
to do it through the day rather than rush do it all towards the end o the
day, it was actually a nice day just plodding on, although I was tired
through the day and I had to stop for a rest several times (see I am
listening to my body)

It was however a late night and I was flagging towards the end but I don't
like to disappoint people and head off so I stayed up.

Saying that though we got to bed at abut 2.30am when we finally got to bed
and then we were up not long after 9am so not as though we wasted the whole
of today.

Nick and Geoff text us to ask if we would like to go on a Magical Mystery
Tour today and if we did they would pick us up at 11am

We ended up heading off to North Wales (Llandudno) to be precise and walked
down the pier and along the prom, it's a lovely place am sure, but the
weather wasn't the best and as we were all cold and there wasn't much to do
it was a nice trip out just let down by the weather, and the fact we got
stuck in two traffic jams on the way home.

We did have chips though (which is law when you go to the seaside) and were
followed by the seagulls who are very cheeky.

One of them obviously wanted my chips and so decided to poop in my tray so I
couldn't finish them - out of principal Mark threw them in the bin, so it
was a failed attempt at getting chips from that bird all round.... and who
says being pooped on my a bird is good luck.....

All in all its been a lovely weekend with friends just tiring and
problematic, I'm hoping that Monday will be the start of another good week
and I get loads done.

Happy Mother's day to my two mums too, and any mothers out there have a good
one.

Will update tomorrow.

Steve x

Sick

What a mixed bag of a day.

I got up this morning without a headache - bonus

Although I had confused the office and they assumed I was going in, although
I had arranged for Meesha to come over to the house, so after clearing that
up I got up.

Anyway I sorted a couple of things out at home and then Meesha Phoned to say
she was near and I had to head out to meet her.

I have decided to take my tablets differently today, and because the anti
sickness drugs were making me feel sick I tried the Oncologists
recommendation that I may be able to get away without taking them.

WRONG

I was fine for the first two hours or so, but then I was as sick as a dog,
even though I had taken my secondary anti sickness tablet.

So tomorrow I think I will be just putting up with the anti sickness drug
sickness for the half hour or so that I get, it looks to me like a simpler
and easier option.

The rest of the evening is now going to be spent in bed - an early night as
I think I need it.

Will update tomorrow at some point.

Steve