Long Live Summer Vacation

Having raced home from Maine to have a scan and visit with the onc, I was certain that the time had come to buck up and start treatment again.  In fact, all indications were that my "treatment-free" interval was over.  However, despite continued tumor growth and a few failing numbers on my blood work, it seems that there is still some margin for me to stay off the juice.

Dr. S has given me clearance to remain "au naturale" for the summer with a scan and - shall I say certain? - return to chemotherapy in September.  I am glad, and quite surprised, to get the extra time....but boy am I gonna do my best to enjoy this summer!

For any number hounds out there, the larger tumors now measure about 1.8 inches in diameter....BB

Photos of Maine



Portland Head Light


We've made it back from a terrific time in Maine...our goal having been to hike trails, ride on boats, take photos and eat lobster.  I'm happy to report that we got it all done!  It is still busy here as Vicki prepares to leave for two weeks in Ireland and Dave returns from camp to host a friend from Virginia for a week or so. 

In the meantime, I had a scan yesterday and will follow up with the onc next week.  I expect it will be time to go back on the juice - but at least we are fitting in as much as we can before the plunge. 

Just for fun, I thought I'd share a couple of versions of this photo.  I can't help playing around with my shots in photoshop - the above is the original and below are two mutations based on my whim.  The first uses an effect called "Lomo" which replicates the look you get in old postcards from about 100 years ago.  I have a few things hanging in the house that I have "lomo'd".  The other is a different distortion technique I've been playing with to give images a more painterly appearance.  Enjoy! BB



Portland Head Light - Lomo




Portland Head Light B&W Smooth