How to put a Positive Spin on Things...

Howdy Ho Mon Amis!



Recently I had ocassion for a little HYDROTHERAPY courtesy of my Friend, Captain Tom Warren for a little excursion aboard KAMEHAMEHA. It was a day sail for some mutual Friends celebrating a Birthday. As is fairly typical the weather was great, with just a hint of the Trades teasing out in the Pai'lolo Channel (between Maui & Molokai).

After a leisure motoring through Ma'la to cruise by my Porch and visit the Turtles, we paused just of Wahikuli Beach to set the sails, and headed off past Kaanapali out to catch the wind. Just as we passed Black Rock we could see right away the signs of sea life activity ahead. As we were still in light air, it soon became aparant that the activity was moving more toward us, than we were towards it.





Within a few minuets we were surrounded by the darting dorsal fins and graceful leaps of dozens of Spinner Dolphins.





It's difficult to adequately describe the graceful elegance of these playful Seagoing Mammals as the effortlessly ride the twin bow waves of the Catamaran, endlessly spinning, jumping and splashing about in the surrounding waters. Literally hundreds of them in the Group. This first hand video clip shows a little of what we experienced:

Just a couple of weeks prior to this I had the opportunity to take along an old High School Friend, Jim Hewlett and his Wife for a day sail. It was too early still for Whales, and we only saw just a few of the Little Spinners then, but I think they enjoyed the day, it's hard not to enjoy a day on the water off-shore Lahaina. Perhaps YOU'D care to join us on YOUR next visit to Maui?

"The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails." - William Arthur Ward

Guilty as Charged!

Yes, I've been negligent. Yes, I've been lazy. Yes, I'm in good health.

No, I haven't any reasonable excuses. No, it's not any one's "fault." What can I say? To those of you who have followed faithfully, waited patiently and been encouraging all along the way, I can only say, first - THANK YOU, and second, I am sorry if I've let you down. Again, I've no real excuse other than just not checking in and bothering with an up-date. Certainly much has been going on, though little of any significant importance.

LIFE IS GOOD, and I'm fortunate to be able to witness that every day, as you can see by this picture taken Tuesday Morning. One of my favorite expressions is, "After the Rain comes the Rainbow." Or to put it another way, you can't have Rain, without a Rainbow. In other words, with the bad comes the good, we just have to look for it.

So, no matter how down I may get, or whenever anything "bad" happens, I can always find something good to focus on, and hope that you can as well. Unfortunately, that's not always a cure all or enough to raise ones spirits, although it does tend to keep one from complaining.

And so, another Halloween and Thanksgiving have come and gone, and Christmas is on the horizon. On the "Good News" side of things, Mom has settled into her new home at Roselani Place and is just loving it. She has many new Friends, an endless list of activities and adventures to keep her occupied, and both Kelly and Amanda have been generous with their visits with the Great Grand Children. Additionally, Marcia Seabern (my Dear Landlady and Friend) visits most every Sunday and this past week took Mom to see a local production of ANNIE at the Iao Theater (which featured Artist Friend Ronaldo Macedo's Daughter Summer as "Molly") which they both thoroughly enjoyed.

OK - so I'm alive and well, and hoping you are too, and will be back with more... Tomorrow.

"Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad." - Miles Kington

Aloha Dad! Edd Wall 11/22/1922 - 10/11/2009

It is with great sadness that I must report that my Father, Edward Gustav Wall, passed away in his sleep early last Sunday morning. With him were my Mom, who was by his side for over 65 years, and my Daughter Amanda.



Anyone who ever knew Dad or had even met him for the briefest of moments, knew him as a kind and gentle soul, always with a ready smile and a quick wit. He taught me more than I could ever pass on in two lifetimes, and always set a high level of achievement to strive for.

We had only a short time before completed the Folks move from their home of over 63 years, in North Hollywood, California to the Island of Maui, in Hawaii where I live, along with two of their Granddaughters and 4 of their Great Grand Children. Dad along with Mom had the opportunity to tour around and see parts of the Island, and visit with Family and meet many new Friends.

Unfortunately Dad brought along with him some health issues from California, which ultimately compounded and were just too much for him to cope with. We all know that Dad is in a better place now, and joins many of our Family and his Friends who have gone before him.

We ask that your Prayers be for Mom, Dorothy May Wall, and that any Donations (please no Flowers) or bequests be made to the Braille Institute, where Dad served as a Volunteer for over 30 years.

Office of Development & Planned Giving Braille Institute of America, Inc.741 North Vermont Avenue Los Angeles, California 90029Phone: 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553), Ext. 1238FAX: (323) 663-1428E-mail

Mom & Dad Move to Maui

Yes Sir, it sure has been a long time since my last update. But for good reason I think... First of all, healthwise I'm doing just fine. Clean bills of health from all the Doctors, and I've even managed to start flirting with real food for the past couple weeks. Secondly, as most of you know, I've been pretty busy moving my Parents to Maui. The hardest part has been trying to convince them for the past two years that it was a good idea. But once they finally accepted the concept though, I couldn't move fast enough.

To back track a bit, after spending a week this last trip, packing up everything they'd decided they needed to have in Hawaii, we had a 5'x7'x8' crate to ship to Maui. With that gone, we had a "going away" party put on by the Braille Institute, where Mom & Dad were recognized for their almost 60 years of combined service. It was a Luau theme, and even had a traditional Hawaiian meal. A beautiful cake and three kinds of ice cream (of which Dad had seconds on all three) topped off the party.

We then packed up the car and left for San Diego, where we spent a couple days with Friends Peggy Johnson, and her Father Doug Williams, whose 95th Birthday we were there to Celebrate. Then it was off to Las Vegas for a stop over on our way to Utah for Mom's bi-annual Family Reunion. We stayed at the Hilton, and had a chance to visit with my Son Carl, and his wife Wendy, and their Children, Chase and Brittany. Their oldest Son Cody was off in Wyoming, working for the Summer. We did some serious damage at the Buffet, and then after a great massage at the spa, and BURNING THE SH*T out of my feet at the pool, we were off again.

Next stop was Orem, Utah where we joined about 80 Family Members for 4 days of Feasting and Reminiscing. They had a special Luau luncheon and Hula show for the Folks, as a send off and was a good chance for everyone to say Goodbye. To be sure there were plenty of tears to go around. We then spend a couple days at my Sister Karen's home, in Lindon so she could have a chance to spend time with her Mom & Dad before the big move. The icing on the Cake for Mom, was Karen's two older Children (Joshua & Ashlee) were both there also, with their Children, so Great Grandma was even higher in "heaven!"

I managed to slip away for a couple days and had a good visit with High School buddy Rick Ortenburger and his wife Elfie, and a terriffic massage from Friend Nichole Anderson. And live was good. Then it was time to gather up the Folks and board our Delta Airlines flight to Maui via Seattle, Washington. The flights were actually pretty uneventful, although Mom & Dad would tell you otherwise (I don't think they'll be doing any flying any time soon...). But we made it to Maui just fine, to be greeted by faithful Daughter Amanda, and news that Hurricane Felicia was headed toward the Islands! (The hurricane fizzled and we only wound up with minor showers.) I'll follow up with the next installment about their move-in to their new home.

“Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.” Audrey Hepburn

It's About Time

About the photo above... It's from my last visit to Disneyland, and it's a photo of good Friend Marcus DeChevrieux, Marine Art Historian extraordinaire, and Carol Ruby a former Lutheran High School graduate and fellow GLASS Fan! Also with us at Club 33 were JC & Franci Agajanian. But that's another story...

Today is all about July 8th, and TIME. Terry "Ike" Clanton, host of THE HAUNTED SALOON shared this tid-bit, "... at five minutes and six seconds after 4:00 am on the eighth of July, the time and date will be 04:05:06 07/08/09." Just now in reading today's SCUTTLEBUT, the Curmudgeon provided this observation: "Shortly after noon on July 8, comes the moment that can be called 12:34:56 7/8/9." Now I found both those items rather interesting, and just had to share them with Ya'll.

And speaking of "Ya'll" - I would like to acknowledge everyone who's taken the t me to let me know you do follow along, and check out these post's every now and then. It's appreciated, and the only real reason to continue on. There just always seems to be so much going on in life and this just seems like a pretty darned good way to share it, at least from my POV.

Along with Michael Jackson's Memorial Service today, the 4th of July has come and gone. I spent the better part of the day watching the Coke Zero 400 NASCAR race at Daytona, with young and wild Kyle Bush providing more than his share of FIREWORKS and giving Tony Stewart the Win. Man that Kid can sure drive, but he's gotta loose the "ATTITUDE" and smarten up. When he does, he'll wind up winning a Championship or two for sure.

Right after the race Kyle & Amanda showed up with Tyler & Hailey and their Friends Steve & Laura (? hope I got that right Amanda...) after a day at the beach. They only made a brief stay, just long enough to hose off the Kids an say Hello & Goodbye, as they were headed home to BBQ and enjoy the Neighborhood fireworks, which in their neighborhood is quite the show. but Amanda clued me in that Kelly and her two, Madison & Grayson and Nana (Anne) were still there (Keiki Beach) and were planning on staying for the Lahaina Fireworks. Well, I grabbed a spare bottle of water and walked right on down. had a nice visit with them, watched a GREAT fireworks show thanks to the Merchants of Lahaina. It was quite the show with a full moon coming up over the West Maui Mountains and the fireworks reflecting off the water. Pretty darned good for a free show.

Tree trimmers were here all day, and that's about it for now. I didn't get my nap today, so it's early to bed for me tonight. Aloha and God Bless.

"Get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please." Mark Twain

Don't Forget Victor - Vote, Vote, Vote

Please vote for Baseball's All Star Game Player Shane Victorino. Shane's a Maui Boy, and plays for the Philadelphia Phillie's. If you follow Baseball at all, you know he gets better every game. Anyway, we can vote him onto the team, it's not too late, and your vote (or 20) can make the difference. Click on the Link below, and after you complete the short form, you can vote as many times as you want. THANKS.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/all_star/y2009/fv/ballot.html

It's Not ALL About the View... Well Maybe just a Little

Yep, I've fallen victim to Polynesian Paralysis... I seem to be particularly vulnerable after long durations away from Home. Part of the problem has to do with having my wonderful Ocean View obstructed with the occasional HUGE, Sleek, Luxury Sailing Yachts that seem to show up from time to time. This particular one happens to be a beautiful 130' Dubois gem named SY JANICE of WYOMING. She's of New Zealand Registry, has a mostly Australian Crew, and boasts a 175' Mast! OMG is all I can say. And no, I didn't manage to get aboard, although the Captain and Crew did spend a considerable amount of time in the Lahaina Yacht Club, and a good time was had by all.

But that's been far from all that's been distracting me... I've actually been plugging away on a few of my Web projects, which I seemed to neglect whist on the Mainland... (yes, I've got excuses for both sides of the Water). Did a little polishing and fine tuning on www.kamehamehasails.com, a site for good Friend Captain Tom Warren, aboard whose fine vessel KAMEHAMEHA we'll be having a little Holo Holo sail tomorrow with several Lady Friends...

I'm just getting a new one started for the LAHAINA SWIM CLUB, which I'm thinking could be fun, and they meet at the Community Pool where I do all my "training" (OK, we'll call that occasional therapeutic exercise.

And now (drum roll please) here's my BIG NEWS! I had my Blood Tests and CAT Scan last week, and on Monday had my final follow-ups with Doctors Newman (ENT) & Coty (Oncologist), and have come away with rave reviews. In fact, all "A's"!!! Here's the scoop for those of you who care about the details:

There’s no sign of Cancer or any tumors. My lungs are clearer than they were 2 months ago, and they’ve no concerns about them. My heart sounds good, steady & strong, and breathing is clear. My blood pressure is GREAT - 100/50. My weight has been stable at 195 for 3 months (what I weighed as a Sophomore in High School), and my cholesterol is well BELOW average, which is good. My blood work is good, and no serious concerns there. I’m a LITTLE bit anemic (no red meat/Iron) and a LITTLE bit high with glucose (sugar in Ensure) but otherwise, AOK.

As for the “saliva” and my eating issues… Now it’s a bit more clear why everyone was so non-committal and vague about it in the early days. What they’re saying now is, this is pretty “normal” and it could be years before I see much change, and most likely it will never be back to completely where it was originally.

Dr. Coty did say I needed to be more aggressive in my approach to “eating” and encouraged using the blender, etc. He also was pretty adamant that the way I’ve done so far, I could live the rest of my life with my current kind of diet. So, I guess it’s up to me. I’m having soup with boiled vegetables at this very moment. I'll have more on Diet next time.

Whew, I've worked up an appetite... it's time for a drink! Wishing you all good health, fair weather, and fun times!

I’ve heard it said, “There are 3 kinds of people: Those who can count and those who can't.” However I prefer, “"There are only 10 kinds of people: Those who understand binary and those who don't!"

Back Home in Lahaina

OK, so this time I probably do deserve all the "bad things" you've all been thinking, and YES, I've been a lazy, no account, bum. Guilty as charged. So, let's see what I can do to make up for it. First, I hope everyone entitled had a GOOD FATHER'S DAY! I did, heard from all three Kids who each have their own Father issues to contend with, and I think everyone managed nicely. I talked to Mom today and I know she and Dad had a very enjoyable visit from Claudia and Aunt Elaine. Nice quiet dinner, then home for Apple pie and Vanilla Ice Cream!

So, I think this photo kind of speaks for itself, I did make it home to Lahaina.

Actually I arrived back on Maui Tuesday night, after a little delay getting out of LAX and without my Carry-on (Gate checked it) which had my trusty Igloo and my medications. Wasn't the end of the world and good ol' Hawaiian Airlines had it for me first thing the next morning.

I spent a couple days at Amanda's relaxing and enjoying the little cherubs Tyler & Hailey before heading over to Lahaina.

You can see it this photo, the two water lily blossoms were here to greet me, along with Marcia and Steve, a pile of mail, and needing to tweak Marcia's computer. "Welcome home, Ron!" I was happy to find that none of my plants or pets had died... which is one great advantage of not having any plants or pets, which keeps things simple. Pearl started right up, and my current registration was here waiting for me, along with the bill to renew the insurance. Ahhh, life is good.

Well, I have a feeling the next couple weeks will fly by and before I know it, I'll be hopping back on the plane to fly back to LA. I've got a busy schedule already with Blood Tests, 2 CAT scans, and appointments with Doctor's Gilbert, Newman and Coty, and then I also need to see my ol' Friend (and Dentist) Dwight Mounts - as I had a crown come loose in LA, and all this medication leaves my mouth feeling funky, so I want to get the ol' Chomper's cleaned and checked over.

Seems like I should have a go at backtracking and covering all the adventures and experiences I had these past two months, but then, I'm not sure I can keep up with what's going on here now, much lest what's already "old news..." So, I guess we'll see... Thanks to everyone who's been following, and for those of you who've made me feel worthwhile, and let me know you care. It means the world, and I'm humbled to have so many good Friends and such a wonderful Family. I love you all, you are truly my most valuable "possessions."

"Never mistake motion for action." Ernest Hemingway

But NO NEWS at all, is not!

Hello Everyone... Sooooo Sorry. Yes, I've been neglegent. Partly because I've been just fine, and nothing much has changed, partly because I've been traveling and a bit busy, but mostly, I'VE JUST BEEN LAZY. OK, go ahead and lash out with your scoldings... I freely admit, I deserve it. One little side note however... there were VERY FEW of you who made any effort to complain or let me know that it mattered, whether I wrote anything or NOT! Even worse, there were even FEWER of you who took my last request to E-MAIL ME, and let me know what was up IN YOUR LIFE!

Please, make no mistake, I'm not trying to turn this around to get the focus off of me (well maybe a little), I'm just telling it like it is.

So, where've I been you might be asking...? Well, I left Maui on April 14th! (YIKES - that was almost a whole month ago already.. Oh my!) I flew into LAX, and went for a visit with my High School Friend JC Agajanian, Jr., and spent the week and weekend involved with the Long Beach Grand Prix (They're a little prissy about it, it's acutally The Grand Prix of Long Beach - as it was pointed out frequently). The photo to the right shows how the track looked from the Grandstands (looking LEFT into Turn #1 - the Start/Finish would be off to the RIGHT; and NO, those are not the Indy cars, they're for the Toyota Celebrity Grand Prix, which preceeded the main event.)

...And so OK, there's more I want to say, and have to share, but I'm getting interrupted, so I'm gonna post this now... and I'll be back to continue on... Honest, I promise...

No News is Good News is Trues...

Aloha Faithful Followers!

It's True, at least in part "No news is good news..." - although I've not reported anything here in nearly a Month, I can now report having heard that my Friend Nicole, (AKA Organic Nicole) an admirable Cancer Survivor had a recent Biopsy, following YEARS of extensive treatments and surgeries, and after comparison work at the Huntsman Cancer Hospital she's been informed she has No Evidence of Disease - and having NED on your side is a Big Deal in our World - so Hurray for Nicole.

Then there's that ever prevalent GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS side of things... I recently had a Gent on the East Coast, David Wald contact me, as he's been diagnosed with the dreaded Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and he too has started a Blog. His spirits seem high though, and although still early in his treatments, his tumor has already shrunken by half. Believe me Folks, EARLY DIAGNOSIS is every one's best Friends. Do yourselves a favor, and pay attention to your Body, and visit your Doctor REGULARLY. It does make a difference.

Alas, in my delinquency from the Keyboard, I was remiss in NOT making mention of Dear Daughter Amanda's Birthday, which was March 6th, and of which negligence I was severely reminded about last evening!!! Sorry Amanda, HAPPY BIRTHDAY! There is probably much else to apologize for, the least of which is not maintaining my correspondence here. I will simply say, "I AM SORRY" and offer no excuses, as really there are none, other that laziness. I won't even try and lay it off on my favorite malady Polynesian Paralysis or my old stand by, Aluminitus, both of which have been perennial favorites for a long time.

So - why the lack of input here-in? Well, there just hasn't been much improvement and I've been frustrated and admittedly a bit depressed about the slowness of recovery. By that I mean I feel pretty good, and everything SEEMS to be going well, except where eating is concerned, and I know I haven't been eating enough. Swallowing still is no problem, in spite of all I was told ahead of time it would be - but the irritation to my tongue, cheeks and mouth in general occurs with just about anything I try and eat.

Well, that culminated in a "chat" with the Nutritionist yesterday, and I have to say, I got a bit of a scolding, and a wee bit of a scare, in that she was insistent I have a feeding tube installed to augment my lack of nourishment. We've still put that off for the time being, in that according to her, there's no real difference between the supplements I'd take through the tube, and the Ensure or Carnations Breakfast I "should" be taking now. So, my mission is to hit a minimum of 2,800 Calories p/ Day - A real bummer realizing that "in the old days" I could exceed that mark in one meal!!!

Well, that's a quick up-date. It's time I think to refocus this Blog, with my penchant for travel or my wanderlust and daily adventures becoming the focus, and less on my health. To wit... I'm off tomorrow to Oahu for a couple of days. Taking a little junket with Amanda, in pursuit of education and recuperation. It'll also serve as a "test flight" prior to my departure for the Mainland next Month. Details to follow. Love you all. Oh, and don't hesitate to drop me a line or let me know what's going on in YOUR LIFE at: knowsalot@aol.com.

"There are as many nights as days, and the one is just as long as the other in the year's course. Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness, and the word 'happy' would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness." - Carl Jung

Home Sweet Home...

Aloha Ya'll!



Yup, I've made it back to Lahaina (for the most part), and I'll bet as good as I feel about that, you're all even happier not to have to look at my goofy face and that "thing" on the end of my nose any more. Both Daughters, Kelly & Amanda insisted I change it. My apologies for leaving it for so long, but to tell the truth, I've felt worse this past week that any other full week during all the treatments. I'm laying it off on withdrawals from all the treatment "drama" and the fact that it's been darned cold here in Hawaii! I know, I know, no complaining about being in the Sixty's!!!



Well - today sees Birthday wishes for friend Bonnie Nelson and Son-In-Law Brooks Maguire - Happy B-Day you two. Bonnie's putting in an appearance at Sacred Hearts Bazaar this weekend to promote her Cheetah Alliance website, and her BIG FISH LITTLE POND children's tale, and Brooks continues to "wow" Lahaina's Visitors and Locals alike at CHEESEBURGER IN PARADISE, Thursday & Sunday nights. Check out their websites for more info.



So, the surgeons seem to think my fingers are "looking better" and that I'm to just continue soaking in H2O and leaving them to "air." Which is scary, no band aids or interference with the obstacles of life one tends to disregard when not so sensitized to every little thing. So it makes me vary weary about venturing forth. My nose does seem to be doing pretty good, and healing nicely, hopefully back to normal sometime soon. Eating is still no bargain, and seems to be the biggest challenge for me right now.







The best is being back in Lahaina, back on my Porch, and watching the Rainbow's in the morning, the Turtles and Whales all day long, and of course, the Sunsets which most days are splendid. Well, I'm thinking it's "nap" time, so I'll be back later. Ya'll take care now, ya hear?!





"Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea." - Robert A. Heinlein

Epiphany in the Wee Small Hours...

February 25th, 2009 2:50am, Lahaina, Maui, HI - back Home.

I've just awoken from an evidently pleasant 1 1/2 hour sleep segment, to discover that for the first time I've got a totally dry mouth. And I mean TOTALLY, tongue, gums, cheeks, throat, rough of my mouth, everything. Now, the remarkable thing is, nothing is stuck together. There is no pain with movement. Tongue slides easily over and between every surface, and again I say, there is no pain! It is at this point where I'm finally able to make the distinction between SALIVA and MUCOUS. And that's got to be the key.


So, before anything worse can happen, I jump (read that slowly roll) up out of bed, grab the ever handy bottle of water and take a swig, still marveling at what I've just experienced. Can you tell the focus of my world has narrowed? Careful not to inadvertently swipe the dingleberry on the end of my nose, I rub my eyes and continue to swish the mouth full of water as I get up to head to the lua to spit it out. And so I'm up!

Yep, this is pretty much the night time routine I've settled into. Sleep an hour or two, up to do maintenance, and back to bed for another short snooze. It's been a real good thing that I'm a good cat-napper, as I've had no real trouble falling asleep, and then I also awake pretty easy, and as long as I don't let myself get distracted by sitting down to the computer or turning on the TV, it's no great chore to fall back asleep again.

And so yes, by the way, I'm back in Lahaina. Good Friend Marcus is back in town, and will be spending the night Wednesday, and I'll be catching a ride back to Amanda's with him on Thursday.

"Always do sober what you said you'd do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut." - Ernest Hemingway

A Few Bumps Along the Road...

Hmmmmm, Saturday is it? Where did this week go? Well, I have a clue, out the window is where. I think I mentioned that even though "recovery" had started, about all I could say I'd noticed was that I wasn't feeling any worse each day. So, while things have stabilized I've not yet noticed the "feeling better" part quite yet! But that's to be expected, so I'm told.


All in all, I guess I’m doing pretty good. Nothing about the Radiation treatments or chemo therapy were fun, and I’m really glad it’s over. Now, if I’d start feeling better that’d be nice too. I guess just not feeling WORSE every day is something, and I’m good with that too. My last radiation treatment was Feb. 10th, and I still can’t do much more than a totally liquid diet, which is getting pretty old, I don’t mind telling you.


One of the side effects of the Chemo was that I got infections in several of my fingers, pussy little things on the sides between the nails and the quick. Last Wednesday I wound up on a Surgeon’s table, having my two thumbs and right index finger lanced (that’s sliced open and drained) which was no fun whatsoever, and not something I was exactly ready for. The photo doesn't quite do the "thumb job" justice...


Thursday was my first follow-up with Dr. Makishi, the Radiation Oncologist, who pretty much said, "I'd done good!" He will see me two more times I guess, and get me started on coming down off the Pain Patch and the rest of the pain meds - which I flip-flop back and forth over. Sometimes I'm feeling pretty good, and am ready to be done, other times, feeling not so good, and wondering what else I could take to make things seem better.

Then on Friday I had the end of my nose snipped off (skin cancer which started the whole thing - and this is the "before" photo) and now I am the proud possessor of a little “dingleberry” kind of thing sticking on the top of my nose. I’m a real site… I’ll try and get photos up on the Blog soon, no reason why EVERYONE shouldn’t be able to laugh their ass off at my expense!



So, this little gem comes off Friday, and hopefully that will be the end of it. If the skin graft has taken that is... As for the fingers, they're coming along. The Left Thumb is just about healed. The Right has a ways to go, and the Right Index finger is still a bit of a bother. I have little minor flare ups on other fingers, and my Right toe on my foot seems to be barking for attention - I suspect wearing shoes as the major culprit there however. At least back in Lahaina slippers work just fine. Although we have Rain on the forecast, so we'll see.



"You cannot depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus." - Mark Twain

A Little Appreciation

Recovering from Recovery…

Yesterday went fairly well, as “days go,” I guess; especially so, considering it was my 61st Birthday (oops - had mistakenly previouslu had this as my 60th... hada be the drugs!), and first follow-up appointment with Dr. Coty, the Medical Oncologist. Naturally, his office is in the Oncology section over at Kaiser Wailuku, where I had been undergoing my 8 weeks of Chemotherapy and all in all, I received a GOOD report, and will see him once more before leaving for California in May.

Awhile ago, it occurred to me, that it would be a worthwhile gesture on my part, to acknowledge or express my appreciation to the surprising number of Medical Professionals it took to provide and maintain the care I’ve been under. The first thought I had was the timely result of something I stumbled over, on the Internet. I came across a site, where you could make your own HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD STAR, the so called “Star’s” Star… And weeks ago Amanda had helped me to collect all the names and with correct spellings.

As time went by I remembered having some "certificate" blanks somewhere in storage, and was actually able to find them, and added that to the mix. In talking with Amanda and Kelly we came up with the idea that one thing Nurses and anyone in the Medical profession would appreciate would be a Foot Massage & Pedicure, so we got gift Certificates for them all. Since two of the Radiation Techs were Male, I had concerns that a "pedicure" might be a little too effeminate, but turns out both are married, so I left them the option to pass the certificate on to their Wives, and maybe pick up some Brownie points in the process.

Topping the package off with a letter to just say THANKS, and a little toy windmill for fun, we packed them all up in an envelope, and had Amanda deliver them. Turns out they were a big hit, and it was definitely the right thing to do.

And then we met with Doctor Coty, and Amanda brought up the issue about my "fingers" and he didn't like what he saw. Said he was going to send me over to see one of the surgeons, and have them take a look. Well, the look turned into LANCING three of my tender little digits, both thumbs and my right index. OMG, I wasn't ready for that. So now I've got even bigger bandages on my fingers, and typing has gotten even more difficult. And on that note, it's time to rest 'em.

"To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing." - Elbert Hubbard

Yessterday The Presidents, Today Paris, Tomorrow Me!

Yep! In addition to Sweethearts, February is a good month for Birthdays! Just ask any Aquarian... So Paris, I hope you had a good time on your Birthday, today. Sorry I couldn't make it to the Party, but I just couldn't get away. I know you'll understand. Maybe next year!





Normally I tend to "play down" mine, to the extent that I simply dissappear, and that't the end of it. Surprisingly enough, my Family's even kind of given in after quite a few failed attempts to have it matter. But that ain't gonna happen this year, I'm not even gonna try and fight it. Still, I don't think we've got any great plans. Fortunately for me, they've all got such full lives of their own, it keeps them busy enough, and besides, "Dad's" gotten more than his fair share of attention this year.

Now, as far as my "health issues" I guess we're kind of at the boering stage. I suppose there's still some drama remaining, awaiting the post-treatment diagnosise of the different Doctors, but I don't see how it could be anything but good at this point. Hopefully I'm not being over optomistic, but it sure seems like the cancer should be whooped. Presumeably just removing the one tonsil was to have gotten all the identifiable cancer cells, and the Radiation/Herbitux surely reduced the "lump" in my neck, as it's definately gone.

Well, I guess that's what this week is all about. Tomorrow I meet with Dr. Coty, he's the Medical Oncoligist, and Kaiser's Cancer Guy, for his follow-up & evaluation of the Chemotherapy. Then Thursday it's Dr. Makishi, he's the Radiation Oncologist, over at the Pacific Cancer Institute, for his evaluation of how well I've "cooked." And last, by the end of the week I should know from Dr. Neuman, my ENT, when he's going to do the Nose Excision (oh, you knew about that right?), which will probably be next week. So, that's about it for now. Ciao!

"I have finally arrived at the age at which the things I remember most clearly never happened at all." - Mark Twain

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY YA'LL

Hello Sweethearts Everywhere!

Here's wishing a good day to all, and wanting everyone to know that for sure, THIS GUY LOVES YOU! I have been so fortunate these past few weeks, to be on the receiving end of so many kind thoughts and good wishes, I can't begin to thank you all enough.

So this is one feeble attempt. THANK YOU! THANK YOU!! THANK YOU!!!

As to recovery progress... well, we haven't started making much yet... but, the good news is, I don't think things are continuing to get a bit worse each day, which from my perspective is GREAT! I'm more than happy to have finally reached the HIGH PLATEAU of PAIN and DISCOMFORT, if in fact this is it. And then it's just hanging in there as things improve, which I don't expect to be exactly easy, but it will be a welcome change. So, although I wouldn't want you all to just forget about me entirely yet, I do think it's about time to lower every ones "concern levels" on my account, and shifting the focus of some of that positive energy to others, who might be more in need of it than me now.

And there's no doubt there's too much of that in the world. for example, I recently learned that the Sister of my Uncle Rich's wife, Mary Ann, has just had hip replacement surgery, and isn't doing all that well, and our prayers should go out to her. On the other hand, ol' High School Pal, Derick Moss has just come out of the Hospital after having his SECOND hip done, and he's doing pretty good, or so he says. Then there is my first Wife, Kristie's son Jon, who's having a terrible bout with undiagnosed abdominal pains, which are evidently more than just a teenagers raging hormones. And so he's in need of a Prayer or two.

Now, over on the good side of Life, another High School Buddy, JC Agajanian's (and wife Franci's) eldest Son, JC III and his wife are expecting their first the end of May. Hurray Jay! So, again we're reminded that LIFE IS GOOD. The good Lord gives us highs and lows, and it's up to us to make the most of them all. Again, I say Thank you to everyone, your support and encouragement have meant the world to me. I'm not sure I could have done it, without it.

Oh, and I would be remiss, were I not to mention that the clever little composition of John 3:16 was sent to me by my Dear Sister, Karen. - Thanks SIS!

"Life has taught us that love does not consist in gazing at each other but in looking outward together in the same direction." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Happy Paraskevidekatriaphobia Day!

Paraskevidekatriaphobia: Derived from three Greek words = “Paraskevi” which means Friday, “dekatria” which means Thirteen, and “phobia” which means fear.

Last Treatment - Just the Begining...

Well, Tuesday may have been my last Radiation Treatment, but I'm realizing that this "Adventure" is far from over! They sort of tell you this in the beginning, but it isn't really all that clear, and it definitely doesn't soak in. I chose to seek strength in focusing on making it to "the last treatment." Knowing that if I could make it to that point, it'd be NBD (no big deal) to get through whatever was left. Well, that is proving to have been a little short sighted.

The "facts of the matter" are becoming clearer, now that we've reached that landmark achievement. The reality of it is, that the effects of the Radiation will continue to INCREASE for at least another three days following the last session. That's not a real welcome prospect, as the last few sessions clicked off, the after effects were significantly more unpleasant. I've been more fatigued. The burns (epidermal) on my neck cover about 60% (mostly on the right side) and take quite a bit of attention with keeping covered with the Aquaphor ointment so it doesn't dry out. Then there's the fact that the ointment is a bit greasy, and gets into and on to everything.

Internally my throat, cheeks and gums have some pretty bad spots as well, which make for an interesting mix. The saliva glands are gone, so there's dry mouth, which you really have no idea how important a role saliva plays, until you don't have it. And where the sores are, they tend to "weep" with a very unpleasant mucous. It gets a little hard to try and explain, at least it is for me, but you have to rinse with all manner of solutions to start the juices flowing, and then to stop them, in other circumstances. Another swell part of the "internal" functions is that where I had once been dealing with constipation, has now turned into diarrhea.

I've mentioned before the "fingers," which have resulted from the Erbitux, well they're defiantly an unwelcome complication with everything else going on. I can't seem to do hardly anything without bumping or snagging a finger on something. And of course, there's incidental pain involved with that. And so... if my reports here seem to lapse at times, it's because that's just what's happening with the Author, he's "lapsing." Which is about what's to happen now. More later... stay tuned!

"The problems that exist in the world today cannot be solved by the level of thinking that created them." - Albert Einstein

Final Radiation Treatment - #35

OK, this makes it official... we've reached the last step in my Cancer Treatments.

Both Kelly and Amanda were there for me, and we even had Kyle join us. Kelly showed up UNEXPECTEDLY with her ever ebullient smile and a bunch of balloons.

And to share a little bit of a different approach, let me introduce a new little technological bit of Wizardry... a FLIP Video. CLICK HERE and catch a peek at the Daily exercise for the past seven weeks.

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." - Abraham Lincoln

OMG! It's the First Day of the Rest of Our Lives!

OK SPORTS FANS!! It's Monday, February 9th. Radiation Treatment # 34, and after 10:10am today, THERE'S ONLY ONE MORE TO GO!!! Hu-friggin'-Ray! (Sorry Mom, I just had to let that out.)

I woke up this morning, not with a sense abode, but one of wonder. It was kind of surrealistic, because first of all, it was light out, not o'dark thirty, as I'm used to awakening. Secondly, IT WAS QUIET! I didn't hear Hailey starting her morning weakened whimpering wail. I couldn't hear Tyler hollering "CAN I HAVE A TREAT?" or "I WANT A FRUIT ROLL-UP." It was actually quiet. there was the faint murmur of the TV, so I figured Kyle was up. I couldn't smell if the coffee was going, but then the ol' sniffer seems to have lost a little of it's ability to more than just itch lately.

So anyway, it was strange, my throat, tongue, cheeks and gums weren't cemented together, threatening to ignite in a blaze of pain if I swallowed. I did have the old urge "to Go" that I've come to know so well, but not the fear too breath because another day of NOISE, and hunger, and thirst, and pain was just beginning. Well, I got up, slipped into the Bathroom, grabbed a swig of H2O before reliving myself, had a rinse, took a (relatively painless) deep breath, and peeked out the door... Well, there was Hailey, up, smiling and toplessly toting her Bear, Tyler lying on the Couch, with that sly, coy, 'there's more on my mind than you think' look on his sleepy face, next to Kyle, watching Bloomberg and the Morning News.

... And it was QUIET. So, there I was, 7:30am in the morning, holding Hailey in my arms, feeling somewhat decent. I'd actually been asleep almost 3 hours, close to a new record. The DRY MOUTH syndrome wasn't all that bad. One noticeable change is the current stomach gurgling going on. With the Anti-biotic, pain-patch, Vicodin enhanced liquid diet, water based concoctions and Amanda's late night protein cocktail, it's resulted in quite the cacophony.

And so it is, I find myself getting Hailey dressed for her Day Care session, and sitting here watching our New President trying to sell his economic package to a "Town Hall" meeting in Somewhere, Indiana; something I'd almost never do. And actually being interested. Heidi (Hackler), I'm beginning to think you were right to back the Guy the way you did. And Emilie (Barry) your "other" Chicago Neighbor looks to be doing pretty darned good out of the gate.

Anyway, since Politics are NOT my thing, I found it interesting to see him out, talking "with the people" and his pushing for the Folks of the Senate and the House to work together to fix things around here. I don't think focusing on the Infrastructure is such a bad idea. And the remarkable thing about his LAST QUESTION, and offering it to a 9 year old Boy, was that it had to do with our Education system. Well darned tootin', we gotta do something about that. It wasn't so long ago, reading about how technology is changing so fast, and the economy is deteriorating almost as rapidly, we have to face one simple fact;

We have to build schools TODAY, to teach the Children of TOMORROW, about things that we don't even know exist yet.

Well, you go Pres.!

And speaking of going... that's what I must do. We're going to try and film today's session, "for the record!" Talk to Ya'll a little later.

"A word to the wise ain't necessary. It's the stupid ones who need the advice." - Bill Cosby

Weekends, What a Wonderful Invention

So the weekend was spent in kind of a haze... Saturday saw the return of NASCAR NATION! Hurray. Being the Motorhead I am, this was good news. And what could be better that than a Son-In-Law's Big screen TV! Never mind that the Darling Grandchildren weren't into it, and outwardly expressive about finding out "the day at the Beach" wouldn't be until Sunday.

Not unlike several other days this past week, Saturday proved to be one filled with "pain" issues. Now mind you, pain is juat a part of this game, and I've been pretty much resolved to the fact, that this isn't gonna be no picknick. But, of course that's what the Pain Meds are for right? and for the most part, they all seem to do their job, up to a point. that point being where either something new is added, or a dose perhaps missed. In the case of the Pain Patch there's the added factor of application effectiveness. Well, the most recent patch (one I'd put on myself, on my back, right hand shoulder blade) had puckered, and looked like it might not be getting the maximum absorbption through my skin.

Ultimately, that appears to have been the case, as reapplying a new patch finally resolved the situation. And the dituation being, I can't think, I can't act I can't do much of anything except cringe, and try not to whine and hyperventalate. Then, after getting thigs stableized, it takes a whole lot of more time to recover, and get back to "normal" - whatever that is. So between 30 s0me cars getting wrecked in 8 crashes and two red flags in Datona, the Kidz having a boute of house fever, and being "off" with the pain meds, Saturday was not a banner day.

Sunday, with things somewhat back to normal, and following a decent nights sleep, we (Myself, Amanda, Kyle, Hailey & Tyler; Kelly, Madison & Grayson; and Brooks who was on his way sepreately)were all on our way to Lahaina, for a trip to the Beach! Ok, they were all going to Keiki Beach, and I was headed home to do some "chores." I rode with Kelly; we stopped at the Olowalu General Store, as Kelly HAD to have her Egg Salad sandwich... and then she dropped me off at home.

Steve (Lombardi) was there, but Marcia hadn't come back from church (she sings in the Makawao Union Church Choir). Had a Beer on the porch (well, Steve had the beer) and watched the Whales and got caught up on the local doings while I'd been away. I then went in to "putter" and actually found some things I'd been looking for, some of them for weeks now, so that was good. Did a little house keeping, which was necessary, and then Steve asked if I wanted to head over to the Goose (The Sly Moongoose) for a Beer or two... Well that was a great idea, as I hadn't been there in ages, so off we went, only Steve had all the Beer...

Not long after we got back to the House, Kyle dropped off Amanda, and we were off (in Pearl) back to Kahului, with my Recycling in the back. Aside from two idiots who almost got us killed, we got back to Amanda's without incident. Lea Voss dropped by for a visit, and a couple Backgammon lessons (which she managed to win 3-0). They had a great Veal Meal, and I had Strawberry Carnation Instant Breakfast. The Kidz were pooped from their day at the Beach, and happy to have the added distraction of Aunty Lea, so they were off to bed without any trouble. And from there, it was an early night for everyone.

OK - tomorrow's the BIG day, my next to last treatment - and Oh boy, am I ever ready!

Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect. It just means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections." - Wall's Words of Wisdom

At least the Chemo's Over, Rover

Well, Thursday wound up a bit tougher that I'd thought it was going to be. But there were some high points too. I guess it just proves out the old addage that, "Right Action is Happening."

But, in the interest of continuity, I'm gonna come back to this (at a later date), and fill in the blanks. If I understand it right, that's one of the many options the GOOGLE BLOGGER provides. So, tune back HERE, and next time, there will be a little more about what all went down on Thursday.

I've got a whole lot to say, to thank the Kaiser Wailuku Oncology Staff. A whole lot more than just THANK YOU!

"You can't predict the future; you can prepare for it." Common Sense

The hurrier I go, the behinder I get...

Well, I've got some catching up to do today. Sorry, but we had some Pain Delays. I think things are back under control now.


One thing it probably will be difficult to hide, is the fact that my brain is no longer exactly functioning all that well. Like you could say I'm not exactly as sharp as a tack... or, I'm about as sharp as a marble! Speaking of Marbles, I see some of mine rolling away there, under the couch...


One of the greatest labor saving devices of today is … tomorrow! - Wall's Words of Wisdom

What Difference a 'Pray' Makes...

Several Months ago, I'd asked my Sister Karen (KC Clark, who lives in Utah, with her Husband JC, and two Sons, Joshua and Benjamin) if she might send me some PEPPERMINT OIL, as it was one of the few things I put much stock in, from the Aroma Therapy school of thought. Among Karen's various activities which she manages to keep herself too busy with, one of them is EMOTIONAL SCENTS, a distributor of Essential Oils and sundry other products, which is my connection to that world. Anyway, at the last RALSTON FAMILY REUNION (Mom's side of the Family) several years ago, I was introduced to Peppermint Oil, and found it therapeutic in the way of stress relief and relaxation. Well, all things considered, I figured I could use some...


So, it was with a bit of selfishness that I offered up a prayer on my own behalf, that would the oil PLEASE arrive. Well darned if it didn't. And what wound up being the biggest treat and therapy of the whole package, was a little hand made "CHEER-ME-UP" card from my Nephew, Benjamin. You may not be able to tell from the photo, but the letters and palm are foam cut-outs. Anyway, it had me bustin' my buttons. There is just no greater power or joy, than can be found in the energy of a Child. THANK YOU BJ!


And so I began week #8. Kelly showed up promptly on time, however uncharacteristically dressed for work (Kelly is the Veterinary Assistant for the Maui Humane Society), on a day she normally has off. In spite of all the lay-offs, business closings and everything else in our crazy economy, there seems to be no shortage of "animals in need" and she had been called in to deal with the overload. Kelly looked a little tired, and upon inquiry, revealed that a large part was due to Grayson's seemingly coming down with some stomache ailment which resulted in their being up all night with the usual debilitating regime normally associated with such things. Sure hope you feel better tomorrow Gray Boy.

My "MASK" is just starting to feel comfortable (like I'm not going to choke in the next 30 seconds), but I'm still left with a scaly complexion following the treatments. As the photo hopefully will attest to.





And good news, we were successful in swapping the Vanilla Ensure for Strawberry. We had a bit more rain over the weekend, and here's the Kiddo's dressing up to face the severe Winter's weather, Maui style.





“One of the many things no one tells you about aging is that it is such a nice change from being young.” - CURMUDGEON’S OBSERVATION

Sanity Preserving Projects

The "poster" above is a recent project I took on, to lend an assist to Moma Duma (who is still Bonnie Nelson to most of us who have known her in her previous life...). Along with her CHEETAH ALLIANCE http://www.cheetahalliance.org/ project, she's seeking out and pursuing ways to entertain and capture the interest, imagination and tremendous potential possessed by Children everywhere, in the hopes of raising consciousness towards the dwindling populations of endangered animals, in particular the Cheetah, and other issues the Children of the World will necessarily inherit from "US" adults.



I encourage any of you with a little time on your hands, or an interest in cultivating the Youth of Today as they prepare for their Leadership Tomorrow, or the desire to improve the World condition in any way you can; to check out her website, or some of her writing efforts. www.cheetahportal.com/index.html offers her experiences and feelings while traveling through Africa. You'll also find at the end of my FAREWELL CARTHAGINIAN Photo essay, a link to Bonnie's article in the Lahaina News, a tribute to Lahaina's vanished vessel.



"The really bright student, the eager questioner, the probing searcher, especially if he is brighter than his teacher, is too often seen as a 'wise guy,' a threat to discipline, a challenger of his teacher's authority." - Abraham Maslow

Congratulations PITTSBURGH!!

Nice try ARIZONA, but it just wasn't meant to be.


And so went a relatively quiet and relaxing Sunday. I hope a good time was had by all. Tomorrow begins the beginning of the "end." And none too soon if you ask me. I'll freely admit, I'm ready for this to be over. Of course, the worst is still to come, so they say...


The good Folks at the Bobby Baker Clinic (I'm sure in an effort to cheer me up) pointed out that as of Friday, they were now "BUMPING UP the Treatments." 'What does that mean?' you might ask... 'Well we're now going to target a SMALLER AREA.' Sounds good doesn't it, Oh, but wait... we'll also be INCREASING the doses. Swell. It'll hurt more, but over a lesser area! Oh well, that's how this whole things gone: good News / bad News.


I'v e had tqo more fingers "go off" now boasting a total of 7 bandaged flanges, and I may just stop tryoing to corredt the inherent "typos" that come with the darn things. At least the tears don't splash on the pages like they jmight otherwise. Poor Joni, the Oncology Pharmicist is worried about infections, I tried to assure her that I was doing pretty good (that was last Thrusday, wehn there were only 5) and they're not too bad, really. Speaking of pharmacy - only one more of those lovely sessionsw, nesst Thursday. Actually, I will miss those Nurses quite a bit, as they have been very caring, and a big help in adjusting to "side affects."


One of the most troubling of all to everyone seems to be my loss of weight. Yes, it seems to have become a factor. ONe which I'll attribute to the counter productive by product of the AFTER TASTE resulting from the ENSURE. I've been taking the ENSURE from the git go, and it actually started out pretty good, I could actually tolerate it just fine. I had bought some at the store, comes in bottles, when I first had my tonsils out, as they were concerned way back then about loosing weight. Given the choice, I went with Coffee, as my recollection of the other flavors was let's say, somewhat less than motivating. Well, there was a bit of sticker shock, with them costing a little over $2.00 a bottle, and my supposedly having to take 3~6 servings a day, depending on what all else I was able to eat.

Well, the first week of Radiation Treatment, Jeannie the Receptionist was kind enough to offer that the Cancer Society made it possible for patients to draw one case per week, which was quite a savings, so I gladly took her up on it, and received my first case of canned 'Regular' ENSURE. By mid-January, I was ready for another, only to find out, that they were "out!" No problem, the effervescent and every resourceful Jeannie pointed us to the American Cancer Society, who conveniently happened to be just down the road, at the Cameron Center (where I used to make my Blood Bank Donations). We went by, and they were kind enough to provide another case (up to one p/Month for 3 months), this time ENSURE "PLUS." Well, I don't think either the Cancer Society nor the ENSURE folks are fully aware, but this lowly little Patient can tell you, THEY AIN'T THE SAME. The after taste, effect on the mucous production, and all around consumption experience went from tolerable, to horrible - making it really hard to drink the now six cans a day they wanted me to have.

Anyway, short version is I lost 10 pounds the first month, then 5 pounds in a week, then only 3, and last week, it was another 10 pounds (they didn't like that...). So everyone was in a tizzy, with one result being I got an increase in my pain patch, from 100 (whatever they ares...) to 150, which helped on the pain management side, and a referral to the Kaiser Nutritionist, who initially responded that they could get me an appointment early in March! We wound up with a phone consultation, which rattled Amanda a bit, as the (questionable) Nutritionist mostly focused on how many terminal patients she'd had lately from one thing or the other..., with the best thing coming out of the conversation being to NOT put raw eggs (this had been my idea) into my "shakes" as a way to increase proteins in my diet. Lately the scrambled egg thing wasn't working, as it was too much trouble to get the leftover egg mush out from my cheeks and gums. Have I mentioned before that brushing my teeth takes roughly 45 minuets to an hour these days?

Well, Thursday, whilst lamenting all this to my Dear Nurses at Kaiser Oncology, Annette suggested CARNATION INSTANT BREAKFAST. Well, I had taken that waaaayy back in my High School days, when I was (desperately) trying to GAIN WEIGHT for Football, and two of those (morning & night) were part of my program. So, I didn't have any problem, and we got a "mixed" pack to try. Well, the Vanilla was close to ensure, and not great, the Chocolates (of which there are 3 flavors) create taste issues, and are not pleasant, but the STRAWBERRY - hello, we have a winner! I can't explain it, as I've been avoiding Strawberry Ensure, and real Strawberries are no go, but the Carnation Strawberry is smooth, soothing and tastes great (well, not bad anyway). Only problem here is so far, all we've been able to find is the Variety packs, which only have two strawberries per package. Anyway, Annette gets the ANGEL'S award again. Thank you Annette.

Lastly, the NO TALKING RULE is in full enforcement now, as that seems to be the one thing I can actually control, to minimise the discomfort I continue to experience with my TONGUE and mouth.


"To bring up a child in the way he should go, travel that way yourself once in a while." - Josh Billings