December 25, 2025

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Yes, I'm writing on Christmas Day... It's hard this year without the normal traditions and it really feeling like just another day. 

I've tried really hard this year to be in the spirit... I did some baking, shopping and even dressed in festive attire throughout the month. Unfortunately, the baking was by myself, shopping was either online or around town by myself. Christian, Sam and Ashli came over last evening and we did Christmas with them since this is their first Christmas in their new home. Non-traditional supper - spaghetti. Other than them opening gifts, it really didn't feel like Christmas, just a night of hanging out with them. I'm grateful for that time, don't get me wrong, just didn't feel Christmas-y. 

Our other kids are not local to us and are spending the holiday with other family. I know they're all grown and have other families, it's just hard... and without my folks, especially my mom, as she was the one who "did up" Christmas my whole life... It's just not the same. 

I've been on the new chemo pills a week now... Capecitabine. Let's take a look at that and see if it's adding to the holiday blues..

*Hand-Foot Syndrome - pain, tingling, numbness, redness, swelling, blistering, peeling skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet

*Gastrointestinal Issues

*Fatigue and Weakness

*Blood Count Changes

*Headache, dizziness, eye irritation

The doctor said the most common side effect is the Hand-Foot Syndrome and it was highly recommended that I invest in some good hydrating lotion and start using it before symptoms start. It's winter and I get severely dry skin anyway so I usually lotion extra anyway. 

I've been on this script for a week now and fortunately I've not had any side effects. I'm supposed to take this 2x a day for 2 weeks, then take a week off, then repeat. For 6 months. I really feel like I'm gonna mess this up and at some point, miss the "off week" and keep taking them out of habit.... we'll see.... 

The neck ache is back thanks to the immunotherapy.... the feeling like my head is too heavy... but it's not as bad as it used to be.

There are positives... My hair is coming back like it's got something to prove.... and just as thick as before. That also means I've gotta shave my legs again.... ugh... My eye lashes came back quickly too. My lab work is indicating that my thyroid levels are getting better, ever so slowly, but at least moving in the right direction. 

Not much else to report at the moment. Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!

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