…might not be the hardest part, but it has been a bit of a challenge. So, I got out of my LAST ROUND of chemo a week ago Monday. I thought I was ready to feel lousy for a week or two before my last “climb out” to health, strength and renewed lust-for-life. And yet, when it happened (I felt lousy…probably lousier than any past round), all that mental prep went out the door. Hey, I realize that a lot of cancer patients have it a lot worse than me – but that doesn’t change the mental state that non-stop-blahs puts you into. No matter how much you know it is temporary, you start to feel like it might just be the “new normal”. So, I didn’t want to write about that (or write about or do anything, really). But now I’m writing. Why? Well, I want to do things today! Yes, perhaps today is the “turning point” and I get to reboot now. Ramp up the exercise, activity…rebuild. Next challenge: not thinking about the danger lurking within.
Thanks again to all of you that have helped me pass the days-weeks-months getting through this. Thanksgiving is around the corner, the kids will be in town. I’m [almost on my way] back!
I expect that my hair has neared bottom…for the record, here is the progression to my current hairless alien look (I’m not so fond of it):
Yes, eye hair makes a difference.
We’re hoping the new stuff is curly and red…arrrg matey!
Cliphoma 
It’s Cyber Monday and I want to know how my buddy is doing. Did everybody get drunk on your hooch? Did the family gathering then fall into nasty bickering and maybe even fisticuffs with the cancer patient? Kidding aside, now that you have so many of us following you, what new venture are you pursuing, and how much money are you looking to raise? Oops, I guess that’s not _all_ kidding aside. Anyhow, we all hope you are doing great!
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Hey Steve! Thanks for checking in. And some answers:
* My hooch is just now fermenting. The inaugural brew won’t be drinkable for 3-4 weeks and will “peak” in about 2 months (see details at
* The fam did have some alternative libations…but, contrary to legend, there were no brawls. Used to think that made the fam boring, now realize it is strangely wonderful.
* I’ve been doing some consulting with Ixia and we are considering “renewing my relationship” with the company. It is a different place than it was back in 2007! I’ll let you know how much money we need 🙂
* And, yes, I’m doing great. Today is 3 weeks since the end of my last chemo cycle, and it’s a real treat knowing that I’ll only get better from here instead of going in to get beat down again. A few nagging side-effects, but feel better/stronger every day and am getting things done!
Happy Holidays to all and hope to see you soon,
Cliff.
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Thinking of you and your family at this Thanksgiving time. I hope you are feeling well. xoxo
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Hey, you look good to me! and to Tracey, i’m sure. Hope this ride is finally over!
have a great Thanksgiving with all who care about you and those who cannot be with you still care!
much love, Nikki.
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E’ Popeye. All you need is the red bandana and the salty sea air, and you’ll be a true pirate! Have a good week and rest. Waiting for the first batch of brew…(grog?)
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