Another great productive morning working on my book. It is such a lovely feeling to once more dive into the world of my imagination.
Today I produced another 3000+ words of editing and I have realised that my original writing is quite good. The story needs some tweaking, but the characters are rich and interesting and the story line is moving along.
I know that Elizabeth would love me to be working on writing Book 4, but I need to edit and re-write Book 2 & possibly 3 first, as it may just change the story.
So total edited is now nearly 12 000 of the +60 000 words, a fifth of the way there.
Hopefully 2013 will now see the publication of Book 2 - The Destructors.
A few weeks ago this felt like and impossibility.
My personal thoughts & dreams to inspire family & friends
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Writing again - at last!
This morning I finally put pen to paper - or should I say fingers to keyboard (it doesn't quite have the same ring to it - does it?). Oh well, the good news is that I am writing, or should I say editing, again.
I have picked up Book 2 of The Guild Chronicles Saga and am working on the re-editing process. Still in the early phase - I find that the story is once more flowing, moving from 5307 words this morning to 8305 words after a few hours, allowing me to once more step into the world I have created. Some of the story needs to be fully re-worked, but the delight I am experiencing in realising that I have written something that I want to read.
Over the last 10 months, writing has at times proved challenging, although I have today collated my Cancer Journal and have discovered that I have written a total of 13 587 words. It was fascinating collating all my separate entries - reading my early posts, the dark times and the times of positive empowerment. So although my 'creative' novel writing has ground to a halt, writing and I have not been totally separated.
I have also loved hand-writing my daily diary - something I haven't done in years. Starting on March 1st, I once more began an evening ritual of noting down my days activities and thoughts - another powerful tool in my writing arsenal.
Keeping up with Facebook has been good, and my occasional posts (sorry everyone) on Vesta have allowed me to keep in touch with the world.
Now I begin to live life again, outside a 3-week cycle, I face the challenges of what things in my life I will return to and what I will leave discarded.
Writing is the very big one, that I know I will keep with delight and JOY.
I have picked up Book 2 of The Guild Chronicles Saga and am working on the re-editing process. Still in the early phase - I find that the story is once more flowing, moving from 5307 words this morning to 8305 words after a few hours, allowing me to once more step into the world I have created. Some of the story needs to be fully re-worked, but the delight I am experiencing in realising that I have written something that I want to read.
Over the last 10 months, writing has at times proved challenging, although I have today collated my Cancer Journal and have discovered that I have written a total of 13 587 words. It was fascinating collating all my separate entries - reading my early posts, the dark times and the times of positive empowerment. So although my 'creative' novel writing has ground to a halt, writing and I have not been totally separated.
I have also loved hand-writing my daily diary - something I haven't done in years. Starting on March 1st, I once more began an evening ritual of noting down my days activities and thoughts - another powerful tool in my writing arsenal.
Keeping up with Facebook has been good, and my occasional posts (sorry everyone) on Vesta have allowed me to keep in touch with the world.
Now I begin to live life again, outside a 3-week cycle, I face the challenges of what things in my life I will return to and what I will leave discarded.
Writing is the very big one, that I know I will keep with delight and JOY.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Celebrating the end of a journey
Elizabeth and I started my chemotherapy journey together six months ago. As we sat together at that first appointment, while they tried unsuccessfully to insert my portocath - my brave and amazing daughter has been by my side.
To celebrate the end, she bought me this beautiful yellow crystal rose for my collection. Yellow Roses - the symbol of friendship. Elizabeth you are my daughter, my friend and my rock! I love you.
Celebration dinner with Matthew and Elizabeth - no more chemotherapy.
The last three tablets - after 669 tablets.
Thank you everyone for your love and your support.
I am still here on Planet Earth
I have not been swallowed by a great sea monster, or disappeared into outer space. In fact I am still in the same space that I was when I last posted, except a little more distracted.
The last month has seen so much happening. Firstly the loss of my father-in-law Desmond, struck the family hard. We are all so far away from Ireland and felt so helpless. Then Ivan left for a 3 week overseas business trip and I began the last 2 weeks of my chemotherapy treatment.
As each day progressed, I began the countdown. Calculating that I had taken over 670 tablets in the course of six months and finally getting to the last three, was a momentous moment. Side-effects have been bearable and enjoying an increase in energy and positive outlook has filled every day.
. . . And then . . . my Dad, Brian, collapsed at home. He was rushed into hospital and diagnosed with a minor stroke. The last 5 days have been concerning. Luckily it has been really minor, although the worrying part is that the MRI has shown a serious of previous minor strokes. The good news is that he is home and feeling good.
So . . . soon I will be back typing regularly. Forgive Me.
The last month has seen so much happening. Firstly the loss of my father-in-law Desmond, struck the family hard. We are all so far away from Ireland and felt so helpless. Then Ivan left for a 3 week overseas business trip and I began the last 2 weeks of my chemotherapy treatment.
As each day progressed, I began the countdown. Calculating that I had taken over 670 tablets in the course of six months and finally getting to the last three, was a momentous moment. Side-effects have been bearable and enjoying an increase in energy and positive outlook has filled every day.
. . . And then . . . my Dad, Brian, collapsed at home. He was rushed into hospital and diagnosed with a minor stroke. The last 5 days have been concerning. Luckily it has been really minor, although the worrying part is that the MRI has shown a serious of previous minor strokes. The good news is that he is home and feeling good.
So . . . soon I will be back typing regularly. Forgive Me.
Monday, April 22, 2013
R.I.P.
On Friday 19th my beautiful father-in-law Desmond Adair passed away in Northern Ireland. Living on the other side of the world it was impossible for Ivan to get home in time for the funeral on Sunday and the sadness we all feel at this loss has been so overwhelming.
Dad you will be missed.
We took some time yesterday to indulge in some memories we shared with you:
We will always remember your very first trip to South Africa - when you asked if there were any "Giraffes or Zebras around" - we laughed at you and said 'No - you have to go to the game farms to see these" and then around the corner we drove past a fence where a number of zebras where standing. The local farmer had converted his beef cattle farm into a wildlife farm. It was so funny. I remember your excitement at seeing a chameleon, your love of the African wildlife and the hours you and Mom spent in the warm sunshine.
The three trips you made to see us in Australia. The very long flights and yet the joy we had for you to spend some time with your Australian grandchildren, getting to know them. We had the chance to take you to see all the Australian wildlife and some of the amazing places we have in this country.
Ivan and I however, agree that the highlight of your travels to spend time with us, was your and Mom's visit to America, when we lived there. Walking you along the north rim of the Grand Canyon, watching the sunset over the red rocks of Bryce Canyon and perhaps most special of all your visit to Zion in Southern Utah. Special places shared together.
Little things like introducing Elizabeth to a morning cup of coffee, made with lots of sugar and coffee creamer. Walks in the neighbourhood and just spending time with the children.
All of these memories are your legacy. Your laughter shared with us all, your love of nature and your hugs and cuddles.
Dad we will miss you and wish you peace on your journey. We will meet again one day and I know you will be waiting to hear all about our next adventures.
Dad you will be missed.
We took some time yesterday to indulge in some memories we shared with you:
We will always remember your very first trip to South Africa - when you asked if there were any "Giraffes or Zebras around" - we laughed at you and said 'No - you have to go to the game farms to see these" and then around the corner we drove past a fence where a number of zebras where standing. The local farmer had converted his beef cattle farm into a wildlife farm. It was so funny. I remember your excitement at seeing a chameleon, your love of the African wildlife and the hours you and Mom spent in the warm sunshine.
The three trips you made to see us in Australia. The very long flights and yet the joy we had for you to spend some time with your Australian grandchildren, getting to know them. We had the chance to take you to see all the Australian wildlife and some of the amazing places we have in this country.
Ivan and I however, agree that the highlight of your travels to spend time with us, was your and Mom's visit to America, when we lived there. Walking you along the north rim of the Grand Canyon, watching the sunset over the red rocks of Bryce Canyon and perhaps most special of all your visit to Zion in Southern Utah. Special places shared together.
Little things like introducing Elizabeth to a morning cup of coffee, made with lots of sugar and coffee creamer. Walks in the neighbourhood and just spending time with the children.
All of these memories are your legacy. Your laughter shared with us all, your love of nature and your hugs and cuddles.
Dad we will miss you and wish you peace on your journey. We will meet again one day and I know you will be waiting to hear all about our next adventures.
Desmond Adair 19 August 1938 - 19 April 2013.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Woo Hoo - Life is Good!
Have had the best 3 weeks - spending time with my brother Ian and his family - wife Wendy and my beautiful nieces Michelle - age 9 and Laura-Ashley age 10.
I have totally neglected my blog in these 3 weeks, used the energy to enjoy life.
So here is the update:
3 weeks ago - my chemotherapy (intravenous) was a bit of a disaster. Just about 5 minutes into the treatment I had another severe reaction. Within minutes I had 4 nurses and the doctor in the room. Was placed on oxygen, Ventolin, anti-histamines and saline to flush the drugs out of my system. I was struggling to breathe and felt very faint. The result was that my oncologist cancelled the rest of my Oxaliplatin treatments - a real blessing for me as the side effects were really yucky. I just had to continue on the tablets, which although there are some side-effects - they are easier to deal with.
I then had a lovely time with my family.
I have totally neglected my blog in these 3 weeks, used the energy to enjoy life.
So here is the update:
3 weeks ago - my chemotherapy (intravenous) was a bit of a disaster. Just about 5 minutes into the treatment I had another severe reaction. Within minutes I had 4 nurses and the doctor in the room. Was placed on oxygen, Ventolin, anti-histamines and saline to flush the drugs out of my system. I was struggling to breathe and felt very faint. The result was that my oncologist cancelled the rest of my Oxaliplatin treatments - a real blessing for me as the side effects were really yucky. I just had to continue on the tablets, which although there are some side-effects - they are easier to deal with.
I then had a lovely time with my family.
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| Balancing through life - having fun at a family picnic. |
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| Back row - my Elizabeth, Matthew & Sarah Front row Michelle & Laura-Ashley |
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| Good looking kids |
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| Celebrating my parent's 50th wedding anniversary with a great photo |
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| My brother took this great photo of me - feeling fantastic |
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| Wendy, Dad (Brian); Mom (Dorothy) and my brother Ian |
I managed to enjoy a picnic out with the family, a trip up to Toowoomba for a great steak and a play in the park with my nieces. A lovely meal, which I cooked - after nearly six months of hardly cooking - I spent the day with Ivan cooking up a great Lasagna. My nieces informed me it was the 'best in the world.'
And today was the highlight:
I saw my oncologist and I only had one more 2-week treatment of tablets (thought I might have had to have two); and then I am finished all my chemotherapy. Friday I will be having my portocath removed; and will begin the last course. In 8 weeks I will have my CT scan to confirm full remission and move into a wonderful new phase of living. Celebrating life to the full and knowing that I did it.
How now Brown Cow!
We live in a beautiful semi-suburban suburb in Ipswich, Queensland. Our one acre property backs onto a flower farm and they also have a number of dairy cows, which feed regularly near our fence.
Today however, sitting having breakfast - I looked up out of the window and noticed a lovely brown cow wandering past the front window. In total disbelief I had another look and sure enough there she was.
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