6 weeks out!

Wow..... Today has been the day that I have been dreaming about for the past nine years.. I have no idea how to write this and really make you undertand what it has been like.  I regret that some of you know far to well what the past few years have been like.  While I did try to hide the pain as best I could I had begun to really struggle in the past two years to hide the pain from my coworkers, students, family, and friends. I hated that I could not fight it enough to not show how weak I had become.   I started to just go to work come home, not hang out with my friends or family and hide as much as I could.  

In respect to this I want to say how truly sorry I am! I have acted like no persons friends, or family member.   I have had time to think back on the past and truly see how much I did pull away from all of you.  I missed important parts or your lives and important moments that I should have been apart of.  It hurt me then believe me.  I am not in anyway trying to make excuses for myself but I was truly just trying to survive each day.  

Everyday I would wake up and know that it would be no different than it had been yesterday that it may even be worse.  I tried so hard to have a smile on my face for my students.  I tried so hard to hide how bad it really was by smiling or just ignoring the pain.  With only certain people knowing my tricks or secrets for hiding it.  This is why I pulled away I was secretly drowning and did not want to take anyone else with me.   I know that I must have hurt so many people, but I also learned who wouldn't let me push them away.   

Pirc thank you for looking at me everyday and loving me.  Thank you for picking up medicine holding my hand in the hospital.  Trying to hide how scared you were during my brain surgery and telling me that it was always going to be OK.  That we would always work it out.  For kissing me every morning with your positive attitude. I am beyond excited for the future to come.  

  

Mom thank you for understanding! I was lucky enough in an awful way to have someone who understood the pain.  Thank you for being my inspiration for pushing through and not letting this ruin my life.  Thank you for forcing me to make appointments.  Thank you for coming to countless doctors appointments with me.  But most of all thank you for just being my mom and loving me more than any mom could love their kids.  

Dad thank you for planning a trip to distract me.   Thank you for knowing how scared I was and distracting me all summer.  Thank you for making my DREAM come true.  I saw every place I wanted to see before this surgery and in every place we met someone that helped to guide me.  It was as if you were my spirit guide showing me to people and places that made the decision to have this surgery an easier one.   Thank you for spend countless nights in past in the hospital with me.  Thank you for the trips to the ER.  Thank you for all the times that you called the doctors office for me.  Thank you for loving me so much! 

Nick thank you for your ever present positive attitude.  Thank you for sending me quotes and books that got me through some very tough times.  Thank you for telling me that some day we would figure this out.  Thank you for forcing me to do things.  Thank you for encouraging my adventure spirit again.   I loved it this summer.  For all of the trips to the hospital over the year and especially during this past surgery thank you.  But most of all thank you for loving me and being one of my best friends.

Sissy thank you for always explaining things that I do not understand.  Thank you for telling me I had to do things that I did not wan't to.  Thank you for calling EVERY nurse at the hospital to update them about me and to hear my update.  I know that it helped my recovery.   I have been blessed to have you as a sister! 

Brittany thank you for being there always.  Thank you for telling me I was not going crazy even when I felt like I was.  Thank you for understand when I couldn't go out.  Thank you for forcing me to go out when you knew that I could.  Thank you for being my nurse for picking me off the ground.  Thank you for all of the dinners.  But most importantly thank you for the calls, especially right after my surgery! Thank you for visiting right before you went to Spain! Love you so much!

Kelly I don't know someone that makes me laugh as much as you and I need each and every laugh that you created each time.  Thank you for the lunches and dinners and the distractions.  But also thank you for understanding when I couldn't do something.   Thank you for all of the visits recently and coming to the hospital even when I told you not to!

Christine AKA Little Wetzle thank you for all of the visits in the hospital and out.  Thank you for all of the books I needed each and everyone! Thank you for talking about work and challenges in the classroom to distract me.  Thank you for always being a person that will support me!

A Phi's thank you all! Each call, text, and visit meant more to me than you know! You girls are my family and I didn't ever know so many year's ago when I picked the house I would luck out to find so many of you that would love me and take care of me through the years so well.  Thank you for understanding when I couldn't always be where you needed me.  You all have been so wonderful and I love each and everyone of you.  

To my co-workers thank you for the support everyday for so many years. You have seen me at some of my worst times and have had to deal with them.  I thank you for not thinking I was a mental person and for helping me through this hard time.  Thank you for helping to keep me doing what I needed to be doing.  I know that I have not always been the best coworker during this time and some of you have had to help pull the weight that I could not.  Thank you for understanding and being there.  Thank you for protecting me and keeping me sane.  

To my family thank you for all of the support that I have needed during this time.  You have all gone above and beyond.  Thank you for supporting Pirc or Jonathan depending on what side of the family you are.  I have needed both sides and have received support from both sides.  Thank you for supporting my parents, my brother and sister, and of course my husband.   I love you all so very much! 

To my friends that I have not named please do not feel that you are not important! I love you to and thank you so much and I am sorry for not being there more for each one of you!   

EXTRA GOOD NEWS! 

Now if you have made it through all of the crazy thank you's you get to hear my extra good news! The doctors appointment today was all that I could ever ask it to be.  She said that I have healed wonderfully and that everything looks amazing.  I have had no real face pain since before the surgery and that would lead the person I met with to believe that the surgery was a success.  This is now the second doctor to tell me that the surgery is a success too.   I believe that it is time to CELEBRATE!!!!!! All of the other pain I have been having is all normal pain.  I still have 6 weeks before I am totally clear but after that she does not expect to hear from me again!  I am literally crying from being so happy and relieved  right now while I am writing this.   My whole life's corse has just changed.. I know have an exciting future in front of me where anything is possible.   Pirc and I can think about doing things that I did not think we would ever be able to do.   

So bring out the champagne it worked and I am doing great!  I made the right decision!  

I am going to sign off of this blog and start a new one.  The summer is over and it has been amazing! One I will no soon forget! Here is to a bright new school year and life!

4 Week's Post Surgery!!

Happy Anniversary to me!

 Can you believe that it has been four weeks?  I sure can't, I feel that time has flown.  I started school last week and had the feeling all week that I was drowning.   It was extremely stressful and I did not have face pain.  In the past as soon as the stress started to build up so would the pain.  I was so excited that I didn't feel any face pain.   It was really hard to get back into the swing of everything.  I just felt like I could not get on top of the work that I needed to do.   Due to the fact that I missed the institute day there are things I feel that I do not even understand.  Due to the fact that we are doing them in  different day.  I am finally starting to feel that I am coming up to water.  My lesson plans have everything that they need to and my copy's are completed and in the folders that they need to be in.   I have also imputed students grades.  While I am still behind on somethings.  I really am trying to catching up to where everyone else is.

Today I worked out for the first time in over a month.  I know that I was not supposed to, but come on I am dying here.   I did a very baby lite work out.  I did the stairs for 15 minutes but did climb 65 floors in that 15 minutes.  I also did the bike for 10 minutes.  I know that it is not that impressive but it felt so great.   I am experiencing some surgery pain now but NO FACE PAIN.  That is the first time in months that I have worked out easy or other wise and have not felt pain.  I really don't want to say that this surgery may have worked.  But it is sure starting to seem that way.

The Night before......

Tomorrow I start to teach again and it is also my three week mark post surgery.   

Inner thoughts:

I am excited and worried at the same time.  I am so excited to see the kids and my coworkers but am nervous that I am not ready.  I have had three weeks with only pain from the surgery what if I start work and my face starts to hurt.  I no it is really silly but man I am scared.  Like really scared! Not having pain for the first time in months has been amazing.  I literally had a moment today reading on my deck where I thought wow even the sky looks more blue.  This may be because according to John Mertes my coworker I close my eyes real little when I am in pain.  Yesterday I even forgot to take some of my face meds and I was fine.  I didn't have break through pain! When I realized I was so excited.  I mean can you imagine if I could cut down on even more of these meds.   I really don't want to get my hopes up, but I also don't want to be a pessimist.  This could have really worked... I could really live the rest of my life with only a memory of this pain not still living the pain everyday.   

Update:

So as I already said I have not had any zings from my face.  This is the FIRST time in at 6 months that I have not had constant pain........ What does that mean?????? I feel great or I am starting to feel great. Due to the fact that the sergeant had to cut so low. He cut mussel that affected my arm and also the use of it.  I also hold my stress in my shoulders.  So I am very tight.  I have had some problems using my arms or lifting my left arm above my head I have become really good at showering with one hand.  Or mostly using one hand.  I am going to try and go back to my moms misuses that did a really good job of starting to open me up.  I just have to try and find a time to do that. 

Doc's

I will have my next doctors appointment on Thursday morning.  This doctors appointment will be a an appointment to talk about medication and how I will hopefully be decreasing my medicine regime.  

Thank you:

What would I have done with each and everyone of you.  I will be writing another post soon when I can really get into this.  But I feel that I have to say it more.  I could not have done this with out the support of each and everyone of you.  I love you for that even if you are just a friend or even if  I have never met you.  Or if you are one of the people I met during travels.  Thank you for telling me to do this and supporting me during this time.  

Big Day

Well I am finishing off the second week after my surgery.  I will first tell you a little about what has been happening this week.  I have been on the Pain Patch to deal with all of the pain I had been since April.  On Sunday I took the patch off for the first extended period of time.  I have not had a patch on since.  It has been a rough week, all of the pain from the surgery that I was not feel I was all of a sudden feeling.  I was also sick to my stomach.  I am not sure why, my mom says it is because my body was used to having the patch on.  Today has been the first day I have felt myself all week.   On the bright side, I have not felt any nerve pain like I was feeling before.   So that is amazing news.

Today I drove by my self (this was a big thing) to River Grove where I work to drop of my Medical Clearance. It was so great to see everyone that I worked with.  I spent nice time catching up with everyone about all that I have missed during the first week.   Although I was made fun of for my blog! Yes I know they made fun of me for saying LOVELY too much..... I was in other countries where that was being said ALL of the time.  Ok I am done and it feels LOVELY.  

Then after this I did go and pamper my self with a pedicure and a manicure.  I felt like I needed and deserved it after that.  I picked really fun colors and had a great time.  

I went to dinner with Riley and Kyle because Kyle leaves for Iowa University on Sunday.

  I can not believe that my little Kyle is going off to college.  I have watched this little boy grow up to become a handsome young man.  We of course went where we always go... Flat top and we had a yummy meal.  We all laughed and caught up on each others lives.    I would say that our relationship is more like a sibling relationship.  We make fun of each other but in the end we would each haveeach others   back if anything every happened.  When we were leaving I gave college notes.  Don't drink the jungle juice unless you want to puke.  If you have a shot make sure you drink water.  When you are playing beer pong use water so the nasty ball dose not get in your drink.  Soco and Lime is the worst shot! eww!!! Try and remember how many drinks you have had.  Eat a hamburger and or something from McDonalds when you are hungover.  A coke will always help a hangover unless you had jack and coke or rum and coke the night before.  Don't walk home alone even when you are so drunk you think it is a good idea. Wear a condom and don't get a girl pregnant unless you want me to kick your ass.  You know just the usual! It was hard to say goodbye, I felt like I was 100.  But I know that he will do great things in his first year at IOWA!   Can't wait to go to the first swim meet at Northwestern.   

Here is a picture from a summer that I was his nanny! 

This is now! 

Staples out: on the mend

 On Monday I got my staples out.  The nurse said that it all looks really good. The site is almost closed and is only slightly open in some spots.   Pirc has to watch and make sure that the swelling continues to go down.  The nurse also said that I will be able to go back to work on Monday.

We got a great deal more info about the surgery from the RN today.  There were evidently 2 veins, no arteries, near the nerve.  She even provided the post op notes to us.  If I read the notes correctly, it appears that there was one vein pushing on the front of the nerve and one that may have affixed itself to the back side of the nerve that they had to remove.  

So the surgery was much more than they thought it was going to be before they started it.   But it does seem like it might be a good thing do to the fact it seems that it might work more.  

Sunday was the last day on the pain patch and I have been in a lot more pain than I have been.  I think that the pain patch was covering a lot more than I thought it was.  

Well that's all for now.   

A little bit of this...

I started the day with a massage.  Now let me tell you that it was not one of the massage that you relax in.  This was the type of massage that the massage therapist kicks your ass.  When my dad dropped me off he came up and told the therapist all about my surgery and the pain I was having.   I feel like I am 3 again.  But I can't hate on him he is just being a good Daddy and taking card of me.  The massage therapist then tried to work on my back and shoulders but he said that it was going to be a lot of work. He said that the surgery caused a lot of trauma and damage and that I will have a lot of pain a work to do.  My homework is to ice and heat my back and shoulders. I also have to do specific exercises.   After he was done I did feel a little better.  Nick was off work this morning and was able to pick me up.  

When is got home I had to sit down a do a lot of work that I had not been able to get done before I had my surgery.   I finished 4 documents and sent them on to my co worker who is going to print them for me.  

I have gotten addicted to the show "Orange is the New Black". I started it yesterday but I have already watched a freakish amount or episodes already.  It is a very entertaining and brilliant show.   I can not believe how well written it really is.  So I watched three episodes of the show when I was done with my work. I wanted to continue but my iPad died.  

Christie came by with things for our class. She also brought our cool new coach books for class.  I am so pumped that she brought then because I can look at them tomorrow.  This way I can really understand the new way to teach the curriculum.  I am so excited!   I am so thankful that she brought it to look over.   She also gave me the low down on what is happening at school.  I am so jealous of all that they are learning and feel that I am missing so much!

Nick came home about 5 and we decided to watch "Oceans 12".  But Clark did not want to watch the movie.  

Pain level and Update:

Right now my actual surgery site hurts pretty bad.  It aches more than burns.  My neck and shoulder is currently wrapped in a heating pad.   Pirc reminded me that a doctor did say that this was going to be a hard part.   A nurse said to try icey hot and so did my mom so we are going to pick some up tomorrow. 

I hate this because I feel like I am just bitching!   But it is the truth, maybe I will just start to sugar coat it or lie.  Maybe it  be psychological and I will really start to feel perfect.  Hmm something to think about.  

Walk on!

Tuesday... I decided today I needed to go for a walk. So all day I was asking people to take me for a walk.  I thought that it was best to go with some one else the first time I went for a walk. Then I know how it is and how long would be good.  

This morning I read a lot! I was very tired and for some reason even though I slept well I didn't feel to great.  The puppies really tried to help me stay calm and try to relax. 

After I read two book I decided I needed to get some work in.  I did some paperwork and then did tons or research.  I was trying to find a good lesson planning application that a connection to the common core standards.  I think I found one which is great.  I set up the app, it was not the most easy thing to set up either.  

Two of my coworkers/friends came to visit.  They also brought me a lovely gift. It was Relaxing cloths.  Haha everyone is trying to help me do that.   But it was so great to see Becky and Martha after a long summer.   They were a great distraction and great company.  Becky was of course excited to meet Clark and if you know anything about him Clark was pumped to meet her.   

When Nick got back from his workout I asked him if he would take Clark and I for a walk.  He said yes, how great is my brother!?   It was funny though it really made me feel like a dog even more.  Nick and I went on a three block walk and I was feeling pretty good.  The last block was a little rough.  But I did finish the whole three block walk.   

Around 7:30 I did have a severe amount of pain.  A lot of it was my neck pain but a lot of it was also coming from my surgery site.  I used a heating pad and that seem to help a lot.  

Tomorrow morning I am getting a massage to try and work on the really tight muscles.  I am a little worried about it though. 

Ok time for bed! 

One Week Post Operation

Today marks one week post operation. Can you even believe that?  I sure can not, one week ago I was elated that they found a blood vessel but scared shitless because I was in so much pain.  Today I am still in pain but not even close to how much I was in the hospital.  

Today was a little hard mentally due to the fact that everyone at Rhodes was starting to come back to work and take classes.  I really wanted to be in my classroom doing stuff and getting stuff done.  I also wanted to be learning with the other teachers.  This may sound dorky but I really do like going to the classes at the beginning of school.  I always find at least one thing that I can bring back into the classroom.

So I spent this morning being bummed.  Then I wrote a whole bunch of thank you cards.  Again I have to say that I am truly blessed and have so much to be thankful for.  So thankful that my hand is still a little sore.  After that I really tried to relax because I was very taxed from sitting the whole time.   

I was really lucky and had two friends come and visit me.  Little Wetzel came to visit first.  She brought two bran new book to read and I am so excited.  I need things to do for sure.  If you have any ideas please let me know I have pinned so many things on pintrest but I don't know where to start.  The next person to visit was Andi.  It was so great to see her she reminded me that if I am not totally healed I am no use to anyone.  Grrr It is just taking to long!  

Ok I am in a lot of pain right now so I am going to bed...

Pain is gain!

Missed Yesterday, Forth Day Home

So yesterday I pushed it a little to much.... I mean a lot to much.  

First I went to the Oak Park Farmers Market my parents.  I walked around and for the first 10 minutes I felt great! let me tell you! I felt like a super star! Then after that I started to really fall off the horse as they say.  It was as if each step I took hurt a little more and more.   Then I realized why they told me no driving because I have to move my whole body when I want to turn my head that is a little hard when you are in a car.  hmmm I guess that does not work so well.  It was funny though I tried in the car and kept hitting my head against the window. hahah 

After the Farmers Market we came home and got Nick then went to the Oak Park Book Fair that the Library throws.  It was great I looked around, and found some great books.  It was very hard at first to  figure   out to actually look through the books.  I found that if I just squatted or sat on the ground it was better than leaning over, leaning over really hurt.   After about a half hour and one bag of books later for my classroom.  I was pretty tapped out! So I went and sat on the ground and read well my family kept on shopping.   

When we got home I fell asleep for two and half hours.   I woke up sick for a while. I think I may have pushed myself a little to much.  We had a chill night after that and I went to bed pretty early.  

Sunday

Yesterday we found out that between 12-2 pm at the book fair any teacher can take as many book as you want for free.  So today dad and I met Christie back at the book fair.  I got two boxes and a bag more of books for our students of biographies, non fiction, and picture books.  

Then Pirc came and picked me up and took me home for the first time since monday.  I really taxed myself earlier in the day so this was another day that i really needed to just relax.  This basically means that I went home and sat on the couch then ate dinner and went to bed.  

Thanks again for all of the support of the past few days! 

Lots of love!

Second Day Home

Today was day filled with wonderful visitors.   I feel so blessed I can not even begin to tell you.  

My first visitor:

Cindy/ Mommy(A phi stuff) came and brought lunch for herself and my Dad (Who has been surviving on hospital food pretty much all week.  So she graciously picked up Jonny's for them.  I still do not have the best appetite so I had beef stoup and Cindy got an extra order of fires for me.  We talked  about everything; our summer trips, life, friends, houses, and money.  You know the usual. haha  She was here for a pretty long time I felt bad because I thought I was eating up her whole day.  Sorry mommy! 

My Second Visitor:

Miguel came to visit me he is Cindy's husband for those that do not know that.  He is also my Dad through Marriage.  He came after work and brought the most beautiful flower arraignment.  He stayed and we all talked about our dream vacations and how we should do a big couples trip.  Who is in?

My Third Visitor:

Christine AKA Little Wetezel she has been my friend since Elementary school and is beyond lovely and entertaining.  She brought over great movies for us to watch like i mean tons of movies and TV series.  We decided we needed something funny and went with "Identity Thief" It was really good and had much more heart in it than I originally thought.  After the movie we had Dinner with the family.  It was extra delicious.  

My reacquiring Visitor 

Pirc (My husband) has been amazing.  He has been coming everyday afterwork to my parents house to see how I am.  He stays and has dinner with us and then after dinner he goes home.  But it is just amazing that he come every day.  I feel so special that he puts in so much effort for me.  Love you Hubby!

Health Update:

I think that I pushed it to hard..I am in quite a bit of pain.  Not in my face which is an amazing sign but on the surgery site.  I slept well last night except for when I woke up because I was sleeping on the surgery site and I was in so much pain.  Walking and sitting are the hardest things to do.  So we will see how that plays out.  Work informed me today that I need a doctors realize to come back to work so that really sucks.  But we will see how it goes.  

"Change is not always easy or overnight sometimes you have to work for it." Don't know if I just made that up or remember someone saying this but damn that is good!

Love 

Abby

Night after leaving the hospital.

After dropping of my prescription we came straight home I was very tired after walking from my hospital room to the parking garage.  I said I was ok because I just wanted to get out of there but man it kicked my butt.  

Mom had a flight in to Chicago today so she got home from work early so we all had a late lunch of beef stew.   Yummy!  

Kyle and Pirc came over for dinner we had yummy delicious Boy Scott Hot Dish!  Mom hates making it for guest but it one of my favorite meals so she made it any way.  Kyle loved it so she felt much better  about it.  We had such a yummy dinner and it was so great seeing Kyle.   After dinner the boys left so they could drive home and find parking.   

I rested for a little bit then my mom was determined to get more of the goop out of my hair.   First we tried no more tangles but it was not strong enough.  So we ended up having to rewash my hair in the sink in the kitchen.  Gradma Joan would have had a heart attach if she was still alive. She then brushed it and tried to get the remaining out but their is still some.   Mom then tried to post a picture of the surgery site but I thought that would make people's stomachs turn. But let me know if you want to see it I guess I will post it. 

Going to bed so tired. 

Abby

Busting out of this joint

Hey All

It is 11:16 and I am finishing all of my check out papers.  I also learned how to take a shower with my surgery site.  Doing well today just dealing with a bad headache.   I am going to my parents to at least Sunday.  We will see how I am doing, we have to take it day by day! 

Lots Of love, And thanks for the support.

Abby 

Just talked to the doctor

Here is the scoop as long as I can hold the meds and some food down this morning I will be discharged.   

If I do get discharged this afternoon I will be going to my parents in Oak Park.   That way someone is home with me most of the time.  

Still in pain but trying to figure that out.  It's really hard to sleep, but I am sure I will figure that out.   

Thank you for all of the flowers, thoughts, and prayers.  They have meant so very much to me  

Love Abby. 

Day 3 thus far

Today has been very uncomfortable. l have been nauseous and really struggled to keep things down. Umm. Thank you for all the flowers that are being dropped off. They all look beautiful. Umm. I got up and walked around with the physical therapist. I don't know. That's good. I don't know what else to write. 

--dictated by Abby, typed by Jonathan

Day 2

Day 2 is a balancing act between nausea, pain, and inability to stay awake.  

Too much medicine brings nausea and the inability to even sit up and stay awake. Too little medicine means way too much pain.  

Visiting is impossible as she can't stay awake.  Hoping tomorrow brings better balance.  

Apple TV to the rescue.

Dan arrives with Apple TV.  If she can get  the nausea under control maybe she can watch something other than reruns.  Hoping it will help her stay awake.  

2:30 here we are

Mom and dad went for lunch! Can't believe she posted pictures I look awful.   I have had my last dose of antibiotics just now.  Still feel awful but have the most amazing nurse.   

Everyone has been amazing I can not tell you how much your support means to mean.   I have the best friends and family!   

The worst part is how nauseous I am and every time I try to puke my head hurts.    

Nick is here now.  

ICU

In ICU working to manage the pain and the nausea. It will be several days we suspect before we know if the surgery had any impact on the pain 

Keeping fingers crossed. 

Out of surgery & now we wait

Talked to the doctor.  The was a large nerve at the base of the skull pressing on the trigeminal nerve. The surgeon has moves the vein. The so not know though if that was/is the source of the pain. 

Now we wait to see how she is when she comes out of recovery.  

Keeping all fingers and toes crossed. 

Rocking the beret.

True to their word they have taken Abby back at 7:45 for surgery.  

She has a sweet gown that she can control the temperature of and a rockin' beret that will keep the Martians away!

Nervous but still smiling!

Last post from me for awhile

Hey guys, 

All hooked up and marked about to go back.  Just wanted to say I love you all and thanks for all the support!

Post will be from mom from now on! 

And we are up and about to leave

5:00 am been up for almost an hour trying to stay calm.  About to walk out the door and head to the hospital.  Pirc is singing some song to himself and I am just sitting.  

More updates to come.   

Night before surgery

Tomorrow morning I will be having Exploratory Brain Surgery.  

Details:

I have to report to the hospital by 5:45.  However Surgery does not start until 7:45.  Talked to the nurses and a few of the doctors on the phone this weekend and today.   They all seem like they know their stuff and they are so nice.  

Emotions:

I am doing ok. I don't really know how I feel to tell you the  truth.  One minute I am scared shitless and the next minute I am completely fine and ready to do this.  One minute I am rethinking this whole thing and just thinking well I could be ok with adopting and the next minute all I can think of is how much I really want to be able to have kids and know that means I have to do this.  It's. kinda funny I am writing this knowing all of you will read it but maybe you will then understand what I am going through.   I am hoping like hell I have the most speedy recovery and can get back to my classroom.  I am still upset I will be missing the first week of school and all of the teacher training classes.   Maybe I will just show up... Pirc and Bret Patnode may kill me if I keep talking like this! Haha   But as Dr.  Cook says I am a fast healer so we will see! 

Deal for tomorrow:

Someone will update this no later than 12:00 pm tomorrow.  With an update of what is going on and how I am doing.  Please check this for any information. We will keep this more updating than anything else.   

Well I love you all I hope you know that! I cherish each one of our friendships and am so lucky to have so many people that care about me.   

See you when I see you!  Now I am going to work on my breathing and centering and try to sleep.   Haha I know right! 

With all my love clowns! 

Last day in Europe.

I am both sad to say goodbye to this trip and this experience and so excited to be heading home to my husband and my puppy!  

Today dad and I just wanted to relax.  So we woke up had breakfast and were on or way.  

We decided to walk over to the river it is the most beautiful part of Frankfurt.  There really is not much else.  Lets say it was not my favorite part of this trip.  We walked over to a little place and rented two chairs.  You had to put a deposit down but got the money back after you returned the chairs.  Dad and I just read and read.  It was amazing.  We got a little to much sun. I have to say I am a little sun burnt but it felt great just to be out relaxing.  

We sat by the river so it was never to hot and we had a wonderful breeze and we sat next to a place that served drinks.  It was wonderful we got to have a few drink and some up the rays!   

Dude set up a hammock I thought nick would love this.  

We ate some lunch at around three then went back to the hotel to get our luggage.  We then made the trek to the airport hotel.  It is so lovely and relaxing here.  We have a great room and the beds are very comfortable.  Dad and I are currently enjoying drinks and writing blogs.   Then we are going to have some dinner. 

I have loved so much about this trip and do not want parts of it to end. I want to thank so many of you for following for reading and for enjoying this experience with me.  

To my amazing family all of you that have been on this trip with me and helped plan any part of it, thank you it has been beyond my widest dreams.  I know that I can face whatever else the summer bring with a clear head and tons of support from my family, friends, and wonderful people I have met on this trip that have encourage me.  

Mom thank you for all you have done to make this possible.  

Dad I don't know where to start... Thank you for the hours of planning you have done.  The countless frustrations that you have encountered, The smiles that you have put on my face, the experiences we have shared and just  being here.  Thank you also for always supporting my dreams!

Pirc you have been incredible during this trip.  First by just supporting my dream to go on this trip.  Second my coming for the time you were here.  I loved every part of watching you discover and get the love for traveling.   You have been an amazing husband and I live you so much! Thank you for everything.  

I will end this post by saying this, this summer holds many challenges ahead and I know I will have all of your support. I may continue the blog during that process I am still deciding what I want to do.  After all this is still the summer of Abby is it not?   

Haha I love you all and I thank you all even more! 

Frankfurt day one and two

So we have arrived in Frankfurt.   

We checked in late had dinner and read our books in our hotel.  

 

On Sunday we decided that we would do the all day Rhine tour.  Due to the fact that today was the Iron Man race here in Frankfurt everything is closed so many people decided to do the same thing as we did! 

It was very close to our hotel so we decided to walk over.   Lets just say it was a little scary when you first walked in.  The company looked very disorganized there was papers everywhere and it was kinda of a yucky office.  It makes you a little nervous about how the rest of the day was going to turn out.   

With in 10 minutes of being there we meet the coolest couple.  Ed and Jenny they were probably in their late 60's early 70's and just about the coolest people I have ever meet.   They were from South Africa and had just been to Russia on a vacation. If you asked if they had been somewhere they had. It was truly incredible. They have been everywhere.   

We went on the bus and next meet this wonderful family from Florida but the parents grew up in Chicago.  I mean come on how cool is that.  The kids where so cute Laney was the 7 year old girl and she was adorable.  I of corse made fast friends with the kids.  How could I not.  

The first place we got off on the tour was the chair lift that took you down into the little town we would be spending most of the day in.  It was 5 euro more but everyone on the bus was doing it.  Haha below are all the views and some pics from the ride.  

Next we had lunch we sat with the family we meet that last name was Sweet haha I love it they were amazing!  Ann and Terry from Australia also an older couple and of cords Jenny and Ed! We had a yummy lunch most people had chicken and I and a few others had the vegetarian option.  It was great potato pancakes with vestiges in them and French fries.   Katie don't kill me I know it was a lot of Carbs.  I have been walking miles though! 

We next went on a bout tour down the Rhine.   It was really great because the day was so amazing it was like 26 degrees celsius and had a wonderful breeze. We sat soked up the sun and didn't do the best job of listing to the history.  We just talked and talked.  I met a guy named Gothem like in Batman yes. He was 30 and a statistic professor interviewing at the university in Frankfurt. He cracked me up so much.  He literally compared his life to the Big Bang theory and explained it was very similar to it.  He had 4 degrees. I could not believe it.  He is also interviewing at University Chicago too!  Here is a picture of most of of cool kids group!  We are missing some of the kids though.  

After the boat ride.  The adults went to a wine tasting.  It was hilarious we sat in an actual wine barrel.  It was Ed, Jenny, Teresa, Dad, and I.  We had such a great time cracking jokes and just being silly.  I have to say that the wines in Germany are just to sweet for my take.  Kate Sanders you would love them! 

Not the best picture but that is Ed and Jenny.   Ed is the only one you can see in the barrel but day and Teresa are in there too.  

After this stop we made one more for people to grab some sovies. I went grabbed a water than went back on the bus to hang with the kids.   

At the end of the tour we said goodbye to new friends.   

Dad and I went to a yummy dinner.   We got to eat outside and just enjoyed a lovely dinner.  

The Mighty Castle!

Wow where to begin with today! It has been an incredible day. 

We first started at the Edinburgh Castle.  It was raining so there were not many people at all but we also had already bought our tickets through the bus company so we got to go through the fast pass line.   I always feel like such a VIP when this happens.    Once we got up to the Castle it started to down poor rain so we opted to grab a spot of tea and coffee and a scone.  I had a yogurt instead and wished the whole time I was eating the scones and jam.  They looked beyond incredible! After about 30 minutes the rain stopped so we began to explore.  Now the castle is not just the remains of a castle it was like a small town.  

First we walked up just to see the view.  

It was a breath taking view of the whole city.  

We next went and saw the Crown Jewels  wish were so cool you can see the coronation crown and the stone that they used to have the kings stand on during their coronation.  Sorry no pictures during this part.   

Next Aunt Wendy and I sat for a little bit and just people washed.   We also watched the guards that were on duty due to the Queen being in town.  I felt beyond lucky to see them they add so much to this experience.  

I love this pic so much!!

After this we went into the war room.  It was crazy to see the weapons and armer that they used to use.   The picture below is a sword that they used during the wars.  It is 2.6 kilos or about 10 pounds. The man their to answer questions said that the men that would have used the swords had been trained to hold it and use it since they were wee little lads.  Then when they were charging someone they would almost due a infinity symbol  to scare the people they were fighting.  

The sword that I have in my hand bellow is a more popular sword used during fighting because it was versatile and could be used in many ways.  He said that "they didn't care how they fought as long as they won."  

Here is a cannon that they used to use to defend the castle.  

Now Aunt Wendy and I were sitting in the square and were just talking and I decided that it would be a great picture if I could get the lion and the guard together.  So I got very close and was lining up the picture and as soon as I got it I looked at Aunt Wendy and told her I got it.  When I looked away from the guard he screamed for them to do this thing and I got so scared And basic flew offf the steps. Aunt Wendy and I lost it we were laughing so hard.  I was to stunned to look around but I am sure that people were laughing at me too.  

So another cool thing is that in the war memorial building they have ever name of every soldiers that has fought for Scotland.  When I looked in the books there were so many Robinson names it was crazy.  I wish I could have taken pictures.   They where mostly served in the Highlands.  We are going on the tour of the highland tomorrow so I am so excited about it.  

This is a picture of all of us before we left.  We lucked out and also got the gards.     

It is a great picture.  

Here is a picture of me in one of the last remaining phone booths! When was the last time you saw one?

On the way out we saw this guy! "They will never take our freedom!" 

Braveheart! Right??

After we left we had a late lunch.   Then we went to the children's game museum that was ok.  Not the most exciting.   

After all of this Uncle Al, Dad, and I wanted to hike up to Arthur's Seat.  Now at first we were a little confused about what peak that Arthur's seat is actually on.  So we climb the closest one. Now let me tell you that we may live in the Windy City but I have never felt wind like this.  Here are some pictures on top of the first peak cluster.  

Trying to show how windy it is. 

Dad did it! 

Uncle Al just chilling.  

Showing how high it was. 

The view was out of this world. 

Next Dad went back to the apartment to meet up with Wendy and Uncle Al and I finished the trek up the mountain.  When we got to the top the wind was crazy but the since of accomplishment and the view was out of this world. 

The wind was so strong it was hard to hang on to my camera.   

We both made it back down in one piece    

Next we went to dinner and in the bathroom dad meet a guy who invited us to his private party.  Being as it is us of course we went.  We had so much fun and met the most lovely and friendly people.   We had to leave after a drink and a shot because we are due up so early but we met people that we will be email friends with so how great is that!

Ok I must go to bed! Love you all!  

Highlands tour day!

Woke up early again this morning had to be up by 6 to shower and get ready before we left to make it to the meet up point by 7:45.  

Being the second day on my pain patch I never feel that great so I had to get something in my tummy before I took more meds.  It was the greatest thing ever we went in to check in and they had a coffee shop there.  They had the most yummy gluten free sandwich, and only one.left and I totally got it.  I have to say that it was the second best breakfast the while time I have been here.   

We started the tour with our tour guide Kenny who was where a kilt so I felt that was a good sign.   It was such a good tour.  From the beginning of the tour to the first stop he talked and we also had some stories that were pre recorded that we learned.  As a total history geek I will admit that it has been so great learning everything.  

The first stop we made was a potty stop so I clearly did not take pictures. This was also where we picked up bag lunches to eat at the next stop. I got the most delicious salad that i have had since being in Paris.  The second stop that we made was where my good friend the Lockness monster (Nessie) lives.  We decided to pay the extra $12.50 to go on the cruse. We bought these tickets from Kenny at our first stop because they were discounted.  We pulled up 60 seconds before the boat was due to pull out. Kenny pulled over and we all ran out to catch the boat.  It was so great! We had a lovely cruise.  We did not see Nessie but I am sure that she is there.  Kenny says she must be a women because she has tortured is for so long without showing her face.  Here are some pictures.  

Some views from the boat that we saw.  

Castle ruins.   

 

During the boat ride we all ate or lunches.  We were all so happy with them.   

After we all loaded back on to our tour bus with Kenny.  He is not happy if someone is late.  Uncle Al just made it! Haha.  We started back on the road. And saw the Harry Potter steam boat but I couldn't get a good picture.   We we t to a castle that was very close. Like so close but I didn't have time to run over and take pictures.  But I did get some inside the castle ruins.  

We learned so much about the highlands I could not even begin to tell you all about them.  We went past where Harry Potter was filmed.  They have taken down the set but it is where they filmed it.  

We went to a few look out points but Glenco was my favorite because it is the highest mountain in all of the United Kingdom.   They are called the sister mountains Hope,  .  It was an active Volcano a long time ago but no longer is.  It was incredible beautiful! Uncle Al and I are planing our next trip to hike them.  Who is in? Please say something in the comment box so that we can get an idea.  I also took some Cye jumping pictures but had Dad take them so he struggled a little.  So the pictures dad took I am doing a torjite if you look carefully and yes I did zoom in on one you can see my shoe fly off.   I guess my shoes stretched out a bit during this trip.  

Luckily a very nice women on the tour got a bunch of pictures when we were trying to capture a leap.   I am so excited to get them.   I will share them on my blog even if I am already home. Here are a few more pictures I took of beautiful Glenco.  

Love my Aunt Wendy!

This is my best bus and amazing driver Kenny! We love him!

One more shameless selfy 

Hiking buddy and amazing Uncle Al! 

After we continued on and stopped at another rest stop and food stop it was around 6 and people were getting hungry.  We stopped at The Willy Stop. Hahaha I don't even have to say something about this it is self explanatory.  But man it had a great lentils soup.

The very last stop that we stopped at was to visit the oldest living one of these type of cows.  His name is Hamish and he is 20 years old.  

Just went to dinner with Uncle Al.  Going home and going to re-pack everything for our next Ryan Air experience.  Que the scary music.... 

Night and love to all!