Chemo Tired

It's been nearly a week since Paul's second chemo treatment, and he is getting reacquainted withe the classic chemo side-effects. His number one side-effect is his tiredness. The chemo has a way of sucking out all of his energy. He's had some queasy spells as well, and his appetite just isn't there. In addition to her nursing duties, Steph is also taking on the dietitian role. Her patient can be a bit unruly and stubborn at times, but she continues to push the food - even if it's a tiny bit at a time.

Being able to drain his abdomen at home through the port they installed during his hospital stay has been good. Steph has become quite adept at it, and it gives Paul more "room" to eat.

Steph's parents arrived safely from England. They are reacquainting themselves with Larimore and are adjusting to the brisk North Dakota winter! We are all excited to have them here!

Emma and Sarah have been looked after well by the school and community. This weekend they were part of the "Socks for Kids" program, a local Christmas charity. While they are a little overwhelmed at times, they certainly appreciate all the kindness as well.

The "usual suspects" will converge on Larimore for Christmas. We are all looking forward to being together, especially with Steph's parents able to celebrate with us. For those who don't know, Paul is the second youngest of the seven Hougen kids. John and his wife Michelle - who live in Bismarck -will be in town, along with their kids Erik who is living in New York City, Krysta who is living in Washington, D.C., and Carlie who is going to school in Chicago. Jane lives in Bismarck and will be home as well. David lives in Larimore. Susie (me) and husband Marty and Ben and Kjerstie live in Greenbush and will be in Larimore as well. We always have a great time together - Emma, Sarah, Ben, and Kjerstie especially like it when the "big cousins" come home!

We will have the Christmas Steph has decreed: "A fun-filled, family-filled Christmas!"