It is all about time....

Although I feel really well, I’ve reached a big decision over the past two weeks. I’m taking time off in March and April to juggle fewer balls. I want to spend time in California. I want to have time with friends, Judy of course, and I know that I’ll need time to recuperate from the two chemotherapy infusions. It is also time to get some dental work done. When I fit “work” into the equation, it just feels like I run from one place to the other…either dashing about to prepare for an absence or running around when I return. We have a terrific benefit plan at work. Since this is a good time of year to be out of the office, I’m going to take advantage of both.

The first infusion is March 5. I’ll stay in Portland until I recuperate. Then I’ll get to see friends. Nate is still here, keeping an eye on Max and me while he hunts up employment. There are some “soft weeks” without much planning, which is a switch. I may venture to Lompoc, I might spend time in Yosemite. The important part of this decision is that people have taken such good care of me, it is about time I do the same for myself. Even the simple act of erasing all the various meetings and responsibilities from my calendar helped me sleep better. People look at me when I tell them of my decision, and ask “What took you so long?”

Circa May 1, I’ll be back in the office. This set of infusions will be complete. They don’t want me to take three more, just these next two. My docs recommend an entire summer off to let my body recover. Anything else we need to do will start up again in September, though of course we’re hoping this is the end for awhile. We’ve organized work responsibilities, people have been very helpful and supportive. I’ll have the chance to set the office and work travel aside, for I’m not supposed to check voice mail or even look at work email. What a switch---an emotional, and physical, sabbatical.

Those of you kind enough to read through this from work, will be getting more information later. My life is far more open than I prefer, but people are so gracious it is difficult to keep secrets. Thanks for helping me with this decision!