All the GOOD news that's fit to print!!

February 24/12.

A GOOD NEWS day!

Back to Princess Margaret Hospital this morning to meet with the beautiful Dr. Koch, radiation oncologist. She had the results of my bilateral breast MRI test (done 12 days ago). I'd been having pain in the exact same spot where the lump was first discovered a year ago and the area felt the same as it did on Day One, so I was scared. The second mammogram and second ultrasound showed absolutely nothing, so the second MRI was ordered.

Yep, all decked out again in the oh-so-stylish (NOT!) medical gown. There's just NO way to make these blue rags look any better. (believe me, I've tried). Oh well, at least I was wearing my "empowerment rings" (courtesy of Auntie Ray), to add some pizzazz.

The update? According to the experts, the lump we were all seeing (and feeling) is known as "fat necrosis" at the site of the previous surgery. It's consistent with post-operative changes. The report says, "No suspicious enhancement to suggest recurrent malignancy and there are no suspicious lymph nodes on either side. Clinical follow-up is recommended."

So, what the hell? Since I was jumping for joy over the results, I dumped the drabby gown, showed a little peek of purple lace (no big deal), and wore a massive pink flower on my head. (Feeling better already)! NEXT appointment? With "The Nutty Professor", (medical oncologist), on March 20th.

(I call him that because he looks & sounds exactly like Jerry Lewis "Professor Julius Kelp" in his 1963 movie, one of my fave comedies of all time).

I always wanted to BE Stella Stevens! She got to run off with Jerry at the end of the movie,

and she was just SOOOOOOOOOO pretty!

On the way out of the breast clinic, I did a double take after catching sight of this huge poster of Dr. David McCready, (my hero). He heads the PMH breast cancer program and is the surgeon who saved my life. I remember the day of my diagnosis, I went into "reporter mode", researching info on "the best breast cancer surgeon in Toronto". I decided - He's the Man!, - and I was lucky enough to become his patient. Thanks for everything Dr. McCready!

(and yes, the "I'm a 10" headline suits him perfectly. He'll ALWAYS be a 10 in MY book! - and for countless other women as well).

On the way home in my car, spotted my son, Max, walking back from school. I pulled over on the sidewalk, and he asked if I got good news. Told him yes! All is well. He was VERY happy and then told me HE had good news too!

Turns out, his gorgeous girlfriend, Robyn, has officially been accepted into his high school (Rosedale Heights School of the Arts) in the fall. YaHOO!! (Finally, I have an "official & logical reason" to post this fab pic of Robyn's gown at the dance they attended two weeks ago. Perfect match to Max's tie!) They're both SO excited they'll be going to school together. Adios Malvern, Hello Rosedale! (with all her musical talents, Robyn will be a true asset to the school and I KNOW it's the right place for her!) - To Sharon and Tony - (Robyn's parents), GREAT decision! BELIEVE me.

Working backwards now to Thursday, ( I LOVE working backwards). I was trying to take my mind OFF the fear of MRI results, doing anything I could to concentrate on OTHER things.

Went to Fortino's at Lawrence Square,

to take my marvellous Mum-in-law, (Jean Bornstein), grocery shopping. While she squeezed the fruit, I traipsed thru the mall, checking out stores, trying on clothes, (won't tell you what), but didn't end up buying anything - except a few groceries at Fortino's. By the way, if you've never been to this Fortino's store, GO there!  HUGE aisles, TONS 'o space, you hardly EVER bump into other shoppers and the variety is phenomenal. Takes FOREVER to get through this place! My Mum-in-law was buying "Cuties" here, (the teeny tangerines), cuz my Dad-in-law loves them! (she takes very good care of him!)

After helping Mum B get the groceries up to their condo and visiting with Dad B, (who was watching a weird Christmas episode of some old sit-com on the big flatscreen in the den), stopped off to see my late Mum's old place - (hey, it's just three blocks away, and old habits die F-ing hard). I miss her so much.

Then drove downtown to my stompin' grounds - Gerrard Square, to buy a new blowdryer at Zellers. (I run through blowdryers like you wouldn't believe). To put it mildly, with my massive hair troubles, I blow them out. Bought a tiny travel one for 10 bucks. While there, the customer ahead of me began complaining to the cashier that Zellers will be closing. NOOOOOOOOOOO! She said it would be replaced by Walmart. (Later, I realized it'll be Target). - As McAdorey used to say, "I can't cope." Ai yi yi.

No more Zellers????

Blocks between Zellers & home, had to stop, cross the street and take a pic of the orange sunset. Beautiful.
Then, looked (back) across the street and saw Dana, one of the Bolton brothers, (my musical blog mascots). Hadn't run into him in WEEKS.

Seconds later, Aubrey was sauntering up the road with his guitar.

Bought the boys a couple of brews.

Aubrey (left), Dana (right). These guys are awesome players! LOVE the crazy guitar strings bouncing
in front of Aubrey's face! FYI, this pic was taken by a neighbourhood guy, Stephen Balen. He gave the Bolton Bros a donation and I asked if he would stop and take a shot of us. He kindly agreed. See you next time Stephen!

Oh, and hey, while I'm at it here, check out my sister, Carrie's latest Prickles the Porcupine & Stella the Squirrel video! (Sob).

 

Getting caught up!

November 10/11.

Much on the go this week.

A bit TOO much, if you ask me. (Despite my "empowering" Power Puff Girls sweater, lookin' "a tad peaked" here, - as my Gramma often used to say to me)! But peaked doesn't stop me from loving cartoon characters and a whole cast of whack packers!

Ya, I know, my insane, over-the-top adoration of The 3 Stooges,

Nyuk nyuk nyuk!

and Jerry Lewis, (a la Professor Julius Kelp),

and the fabulous, late, great Billy Van!! sigh - (in The Hilarious House of Frightenstein!!) Man, he was fantastic in all those wild roles! - Remember the credits? Starring - Billy Van, Billy Van, Billy Van!!

and yes, even the Power Puff Girls, proves I've never really grown up, I guess. Whatever. Live with it!

Not enough time lately to sit around, think, create & blog!!
(No shortage of IDEAS, only time).

Monday's "ME day" put me way behind with a lot of mundane stuff. (my fave....not!) Had to run to catch up.

Always makes me think of that Jill Clayburgh movie, "I'm Dancing As Fast As I Can"!! (yes, I know it dealt with Valium addiction). Have never been addicted to the stuff, however, took it six years ago to make my speech at Bob McAdorey's funeral, (February, 2005),

and again, two weeks ago, - (ALSO to speak at a McAdorey function), -
co-accepting his induction award into the Niagara Falls Wall of Fame. (Bob? - Seems I only need Valium when it comes to YOU)! - I KNOW he would relate, understand, and say, "It's OK. I LOVE you." (as he often said when I was freaking out).

In between mundane, "have-a-blast" chores today, headed over to Gerrard Square to track down a gift for my Auntie Ray's upcoming 92nd birthday. (finally found something...just hope it FITS)!

But while there, also wandered into the local boot store to check out these WAY-wild, over-the-knee boots they had.

Always wanted to try them on. At long last, actually DID it. The shop owner was kind enough to take a pic. Upon seeing it though, felt it looked like I was about to go fly fishing with Robert Redford in A River Runs Through It! Gak.

(of course, Bob was MUCH too COOL to wear major-league boots during the making of that film)!!

After giving up on my idea of over-the-knee boots, ended up buying,

...these! Yep. Grape-coloured, knee-high, suede boots. (WHAT???) - Totally UNpractical, but fun to strut in. (just wearing them in the mall, had THREE people ask where I GOT them)!

Then, onward to grocery shopping at No Frills (be still my heart), and to Gerrard & Carlaw, where I ran into my FAVE blog mascots, Aubrey & Dana -"The Bolton Bros". (every bit as cool as Redford in MY book).

They looked great and played their fab version of Me and Bobby McGee, (written by Kris Kristofferson and Fred Foster)- just for me! First time I've heard them sing it. LOTS of people gave them money, as they are SOOOOOOOOOOO good!

Awesome guys! - Bought them each a beer, instead of tossing change into their guitar. (FYI - Aubrey, with the RED hat, is the only street performer I've seen with a cell phone! He got a call while I was snapping pics. Seems a young woman was awfully anxious for him to come over and see her). He blushed when he closed the phone and re-joined his brother. Cheers guys!

Old friends

October 25/11.

Haven't been able to post much because everyone I've seen the last few days, has refused permission to allow me write about them! (Who knew I have so many very private pals)? But not tonight!

My incredible friend, Pam Deacon-Pickard, (whom I first met poolside during a family vacation several years ago at Fern Resort in Orillia), took me out for a belated birthday dinner tonight at Omonia on The Danforth. We had a blast!

She toasted me for a happy, healthy year ahead (could use it!) and we enjoyed appetizer Greek salads, seafood souvlaki for me, pork souvlaki for her, with rice and veggies! All delicious! Though I live just blocks from Omonia, this was my first visit to the classy establishment (as I usually frequent my fave place, The Friendly Greek).

Pam, Dave and me!

Our waiter, Dave, was so handsome, Pam & I concluded he must be a model or actor. Turns out, he's a musician, a bassist with the band SIXXXER, (described as a rock alternative punk band from Toronto). According to legend, formed in 2009 and released their first EP in April of 2010. Sadly, my attempt at taking an auto-shot with him, failed miserably, and looks even worse if I move in for a close-up. Sorry about that, Dave! He is also a very attentive server and helped make it a great evening!

Apparently, Dave B also plays in another band called Neverending White Lights.

Will have to check them out!

Pam & I share a mutual love for Robin Williams, so naturally, she had to wear her Robin jacket, purchased at his last live Toronto concert. (she bought me a fridge magnet from one of his shows which never leaves our fridge!)

Pam reminded me about her funny Robin story from a few years ago. It happened as he made his way to the stage for his one-man show at Massey Hall. Right after he was introduced, it became quiet and Pam yelled out "I love you Robin!" He instantly replied, "LOOK everyone - it's my first Canadian Slut!" Pam jumped out of her seat and shouted, "Woo hoo!" - (then promptly sat down!) A memorable Robin moment.

Pam says, Robin is the only man ever who would be able to get away with calling her such a name.

(for the record, I'd be OK with him calling ME that too!) Woo hoo!

Seems to be my week for reuniting with old friends. On Monday night, went with a special acquaintance, (who wishes to remain nameless) to The Sierra Grill at Bayview Village. We enjoyed a heartfelt conversation for a couple of hours. Very nice way to spend an afternoon. After so very many months looking after Mum and then myself, I was forced to neglect friends. Trying to make up for that now.

Inside, (while waiting for the mystery guest to arrive), this was the cute
fall-themed lobby display.

Took the TTC home from Bayview & Sheppard and discovered a lovely sunset view awaiting me at the neighbourhood intersection of Broadview & Danforth at rush hour.

Wow! So pretty.

The weather was so beautiful, didn't even need a jacket!

Then, ran into my latest blog mascots, the coolest guys - Bolton brothers Aubrey & Dana. They played for me (and others!) at Gerrard & Carlaw.

Love them! They perform so well as a duo. (And well they SHOULD, after decades together!) - To date, Aubrey & Dana have yet to EVER see themselves on this blog, since neither has access to a computer. Wish they could make enough money to afford one!

Just a block from home, had to stop and take a shot of the beautiful autumn colours at Withrow Park. (note the tree hugger!) I don't want fall to end!

"Oh Auntie Em, there's NO place like home!"

Our street is looking stunning!

Thanksgiving Holiday Monday - Surprises galore!!!!!!!!!

October 10/11.

The Kevio update!

Got a great surprise when I called cousin Kev yesterday to find out if he would be requiring my "special delivery Henkell services" on Saturday night at Bridgepoint. He told me he didn't need me because he's at HOME!

Yippie-yi-yo-ki-yay!!!!!!! Sadly, only temporarily, since he can't actually break out of the joint till next week, but he was able to make it home for Thanksgiving dinner! Sure was fantastic to see him dressed up in white, sitting out on the front porch of his own home - (moon-walking boots, crutches & all) and hanging out with his dog, Kalou!

I lucked out when I raced over to take the welcome home pic, since minutes later, Auntie Ray showed up by cab and I was able to witness their heartfelt, long-awaited mother & son reunion! Sure brought tears to my eyes. Gak. Auntie Ray was only able to visit Kev once at Bridgepoint and she missed him so much! (Seeing this embrace, really made me wish Uncle Ev could have been here too).

But it was great for me to see Kevan back with his beautiful wife, Marilyn (home from Malta where she'd been helping take care of their adorable new granddaughter, Sienna), - and with his Mum - (who is a tad overwhelmed)!! Love it! - Auntie Ray always knows how to steal the spotlight!!

I brought along a few beers for the celebration. (only using mine as a prop. I'm going home for a Henkell piccolo!) - I think, after this past month, Kevio will be craving Henkell!! LOL. - Cheers Kev! And welcome home!

Wanted to get a shot with Kevan and Auntie Ray, so Marilyn took one for me!

Ray and Kev - classy, classic and two of the best people on the planet!

Marilyn surprised me with a stunning silver bracelet handmade in Malta. She knows I adore silver AND lace, so this bracelet is absolute perfection! She and her daughter, Sacha, shopped at many jewellery stores to find something special. Not sure what it's called, but Marilyn explained the process of making these fabulous bracelets. Tiny strands of silver, all woven together to look exactly like lace! Ultra-feminine, sexy, and the prettiest one I've ever owned!

Marilyn also brought home this stunning TRIPLE necklace for Auntie Ray. It was bought in a Maltese shop, but made in Italy. Looks great on her!!

After leaving the family reunion, ran into my performing pals, Aubrey & Dana outside the LCBO. They played House of the Rising Sun for me. Fab. They are both outstanding guitarists and I love listening to them sing too!

Since I am President of their non-existent fanclub, AND since it was Thanksgiving, I asked the Bolton Brothers to pick ANY beer they like and I'd bring them. Dana responded, "Surprise us." I like that!

Went inside, got Henkell, (for Kev - for Tuesday and Wednesday, and for me). Chose 2 cans of Stella Artois for the boys.

The man who took this pic (no, not a construction worker from Princess Margaret Hospital), a guy named Aaron, actually hit on me in the store! (As Shatner would say, "Weird, or what???") He asked why I was buying champagne and 2 beers? Told him, - for my friends, outside! (motioning towards them). He took a look and said, "I'm looking for a girlfriend like you, and you're giving beer to THOSE guys?" I said, "Ya, they're my pals, - and they're talented!" He said, "You some kinda Christian??" I said, "Yes, I am a Christian, who just survived cancer, and I kinda like doing nice things for other people." Told him he could do ME a favour. He asked, "Carry your package to the car?" I said, "Nope....just take a Thanksgiving Day pic of me & the boys for my blog"! He did not look amused. But he took the shot anyway, then asked, "You got a man?" I laughed and said, "Yep, a husband, - and two kids." Then he ran off, but not before shaking my hand and shouting, "Nice meeting you!" LOL. Life is fun sometimes.

Aubrey & Dana with their Stellas. (cue Marlon Brando, - "STELLLLLLLLLLLA"!!!) Believe it or not, half an hour later, ran into Dana, shopping at No Frills. He wanted a can of cranberries for their Thanksgiving dinner. I directed him to the canned cranberry section. Hope they had a good meal.

And that's what Thanksgiving's all about Charlie Brown!!