Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Moles, dogs, and vacations oh my!

Jon and I went for a second opinion this morning on my abnormal moles. The second doctor agreed with the first doctor, and I feel much better hearing them agree on a treatment plan. The second biopsy that is scheduled for September 29 should remove all of the abnormal cells. Since so many people have asked, the reason the biopsy is scheduled that far out is to let the areas heal from the first biopsy. After the second biopsy, I will be going to the dermatologist every 6 months for the rest of my life. Through all of this, I have not been scared about these specific moles. What has shaken me is these are on my stomach, an area that has not seen sun since before the boys were born. Again, this is all a good reminder to be kind, be patient, and enjoy life while you can.

The part that makes me laugh the hardest is they have repeated many times to me that I can not shower for two days after the second excision. I want to say Hello! I could not shower for TEN DAYS after my ear surgery! (Story of my bionic ear here.) During the hottest heat wave in Chicago (105-110) of the summer and we only had window AC units and I was falling down from vertigo! Do you have any idea what curly hair looks like after 10 days without washing it?

But please do not worry about me because I have a plan to deal with this stress. My very good friend (we have known each other 17 years now, CRAZY) Ann has a precious two month old baby boy and I am getting on a plane today to visit her, coming back Sunday. Did I mention she lives in San Francisco? And her husband is going to watch the baby on Thursday so we can go wine tasting in Napa and eat at Michael Chiarello's new restaurant? And Jon and the boys are staying home? I planned this trip awhile ago yet it worked out with such perfect timing.

To keep you entertained until I return, here is a little picture. Jon and I my original plan had been if I was not pregnant by Christmas 2005, we would get a dog. Nate and Alex trumped the dog idea, and while we still really want a dog, we want one once the boys are a little older and more independent. However every time we are around dogs, Alex goes crazy. He is the biggest dog lover you could imagine.

I didn't have my camera with me on one of our pontoon rides on vacation, but my SIL had hers. I snapped some pictures with her camera and she emailed some yesterday. Alex specifically asked to have his picture taken with Cisco. I love this kid so much I think about getting a dog for him. Completely insane, but that is motherhood for you.


AlexCisco

12 comments:

Lindsay said...

Cute! Have a wonderful trip!

We love our rescued lab! I have to remind myself how much work he was as a puppy, b/c he's so low maintenance now.

Anonymous said...

San Francisco - such fun!!! The pic is super cute. As crazy as it is we have always had dogs before and after our kids. Yes, it certainly does add to the mayhem but we find it well worth it. My oldest graduated this past May and you'll never guess who is in one of his professional senior pics - none other than his best friend, our big 85 pound mutt named Stormie. She is 8 years old and it will be a fond memory.

Joanna said...

It sounds to me like you guys have a great potential Christmas present for the boys...Maybe not this year, but don't wait too long. I was about 3 when my mom brought home our Old English Sheep dog puppy. The joy of that night stays with me to this day.

Mmmm...Wine tasting *drooling*

bb and mtb said...

Good for a good appointment even if the second guy didn't have anything better to report. Like maybe the first guy is a quack and you have the healthiest skin on the planet.

How cute is the picture of Alex and Cisco? Love it!

And maybe I'm just shallow, but I have a much different opinion of Mr. Chiarello after watching last week's episode of Top Chef Masters. But then again, I'll bet he makes some darn good food.

So jealous you will be in SF. It's one of my favorite cities, and you get to play w a 2 month old all? Sounds like fun!!!!

Quadmama said...

Glad you went for a second opinion. At least now you have a starting point and treatment plan in place. Have a wonderful trip. Wine tasting? Sounds like so much fun.

Sadia said...

Enjoy your trip, and thanks for the update on the moles.

I like the new layout. I've been planning to switch mine around, but after thinking about technology all day, I like the WYSIWYGness of blogger vanilla.

A dog? You are certifiable. But other have done it before you.

Steph said...

Have a great trip to SF! Good to get a second opinion. The mole my MIL had removed that turned out to be cancerous was right under her breast- a place that also did not get much sun.

A dog is both wonderful (instant floor clean up when food falls on the floor!) and so much extra work (OMG the dog hair!!! Get one that doesn't shed), but lots of fun, and the boys would love it!

HeatherV said...

Good news on the 2nd opinion front to have a plan with a date for removal. Hope you are leaving for the trip with a better sense of peace.

As a dog owner, think about age and responsiblities for animal care. Good teaching tool as well as the shear joy a pet brings.

One of Ben's jobs is to feed Vegas everyday with guidence. He also practices holding the leash on walks.

I don't know who has more energy, Ben or the dog at times so do think breeds and outside/inside due to extra cleaning.

Have a relaxing and safe trip!

t + j said...

we probably saw you guys at joy's and didn't even know it! we were there way too much. and i even ate there when i went to chicago recently for my bf's bridal shower. there's nothing like those fat noodles! have a great trip and say hi to michael for me!

Becky @ Our Sweet Peas said...

Glad you are feeling confident with the treatment plan! Have an amazing time in San Francisco and that picture is absolutely adorable. The boys LOVE dogs too but I don't know if I will be able to take the plunge.

Megan said...

Thanks for the update on the moles. I was nervous- Mother Hen that I am.
ENJOY SF! Gosh! I would love to go out there. My single most favorite place. Perfect timing. Safe trip!

Sandra said...

I totally understand what you are saying about getting a dog for Alex - they can be so good for kids, but certainly more work for you at this point. That's a tough decision. Your trip sounds great -hope you had a wonderful time!