Hep C Checkup

Today was my first check up since starting the treatment almost three weeks ago. Hot Wife wasn't able to make it, but was there in part due to a note card of questions for me to ask on her behalf. Everyone asked about her. I guess she made an impression our last visit. I know it was at least a good impression due to the attitude of their remarks.

Overall, the check up was nice. I was able to recount my experience of the past few weeks and the side effects that were noticed. The doctor seemed very positive. Yea!

I also had the basic blood work drawn and most of that was acceptable. The significant concern that we have right now is dealing with my white blood cell count. At 3.4, the WBC was very low somewhere between half and a third of normal. We are going to have to be extra carefull not to catch any bugs since WBC's help fight infection. Little kids stay away! Just kidding.

I guess I will need to be extra diligent about washing hands et.al.

Overall we are extremely postitive. Praise the Lord! Please pray for improvement in my WBC count as it will help many things.

Independence Day Weekend

Our Independence Day weekend started with a trip north to Hot Wife's hometown of Attalla, Alabama. It's been a while since we made the trip there -- I guess we've been pretty busy lately! Uncle Duane and Aunt Donna were kind to let us, and the rest of the family, kick back at their home that has a pool. I don't have any pictures, because the hot July sun caused me to get in the pool like a bug gets into a bug zapper. I just couldn't do it quick enough!

We went to the Gadsden fireworks show.






















I wanted to take a family picture in front of fireworks. After a few minutes of homework and setup to get the shot, Baby O sold me out. She's very afraid of the fireworks. So she hid in the car and got in the floorboard as far back as she could.
















I took my shot Friday night so as you know already Friday night and Saturday were a little slow. I vegged around the better part of the day. Saturday, we did find time to go to the Gadsden Mall to feed the ducks and geese. Where are these geese when we were waist deep in cold water last winter?


































Then we took a quick portrait, but the noonday light was less than tolerable. Argh!






















Later that night, Poppy taught Baby O how to string beans. By the way, this is a good skill to learn. I remember growing up where my Mema and Aunt Pearl would string beans for an entire day. I was there to help though I didn't realize at the time how simple skills are so important and grandparents are perfect people to teach them.


















Finally, after going to church, we had a little time to take a few more quick pictures. Aunt Willene and Uncle Allan, I know you read this blog so thanks for the cute outfit that Baby O is wearing. She got so many compliments. Especially when she would wear her hat!

Two New Pics of Baby O

As you can see, she has a crazy side. She probably gets it from her Uncle Bert.

Hot Wife Battles TMJ

She's gonna kill me for doing this!!!

I just got a picture two day ago of Hot Wife molding an athletic mouthpiece to her teeth as a DIY fix for TMJ. I don't even know what TMJ is, but it's freakin' hilarious hearing her talk with the thing in her mouth.

Good luck baby! I hope your solution works.

Uga VI

Well today I got the news that Uga VI died from heart faliure. I really didn't know that one could determine that from a dog. Go modern technology.

Well I had to share the news to Baby O. She didn't seem too bummed - I really don't think she understood. Anyway, I took this opportunity to let her know that the lineage is still secure with other offspring. She can still do her rally call with confidence.

Treatment Update

Yesterday I took my second dose of the Interferon shot. If you remember, last week didn't go so well. I was looking for a shovel to dig a grave in the backyard! Argh! Well, this week has been much better. Hot Wife gave me the shot yesterday after dinner with the goal being for the side effects to occur while I slept. Overall, the side effects were much reduced. I remember some fever last night be not nearly as much as the week before. I am still a little achy today, but trust me, I'll take it!

We have been getting so many notes and emails from friends and family over the last few weeks. Let me tell you, they encourage us so much!

Otherwise, all is good. Baby O has been really into cups lately. There are three plastic tumblers that she's carrying all over the house. I just don't get it though. Baby O has hundreds of toys, but desires to play with cups. I remember Michael and Cole did the same thing. I guess it's just a kid tradition.

Fame! I'm gonna live forever.

Baby O put on some of her Mom's socks. I really think she getting dressed up for "Fame" auditions. Can you hear the theme song?