Too Busy to Worry

During the past few weeks, our house has been buzzing with activity. My California Adventure kept Robby and I busy for nearly a week. We had just begun to adjust to being home when we got revved up for my 5K this past weekend. I would have loved to bask in the accomplishment, but I didn't have time.

Every year Scott hosts a luncheon to thank the businesses that work with his students. These business owners eagerly accept special education teenagers, many of whom possess little to no work skills, and offer them an opportunity to experience the workplace and to build their resumes. The luncheon is Scott's way of thanking these individuals while honoring them for their participation in the internship program.

In addition to thanking the businesses, the luncheon also serves as a celebration for the students. Many of the students graduate upon completing the Internship program, and this lunch is often the last business they have at the school. Because many of Scott's students come from dysfunctional families or are in foster care, their high school graduation often passes unnoticed. For too many kids, this lunch often serves as the only commemoration for their high school graduation. We strive to make it special.

Because we receive no reimbursement for the event, Scott and I often struggle to provide a memorable event on a shoe string budget. Each year we resolve to delegate the responsibilities. Despite our planning and requests, the cooking and decorating always falls upon my shoulders. I spent all day Sunday cooking.

We had 48 confirmed guests, but we have learned through experience to anticipate a slight increase in attendance from those who forgot to RSVP. This year's menu included chicken salad, sloppy joes, smoked chicken legs, baked beans, pasta salad, homemade rolls, and cookies. We made a lot of food, but teenagers eat a lot! Robby was a willing helper when it came to making cookies. Together, we made over 12 dozen. By the time Sunday evening rolled around, I was exhausted.

Monday morning Robby and I packed up with car with the food, tableware and decorations, and headed in to "Daddy's big school." The luncheon was a success, with nearly 55 people in attendance. It is always a lot of work, but it is worth it when I see the excitement on the faces of his students. I am, however, happy that it is over.

My leg is sore and my muscles are tired. My bursa/bone spur is angry and is making me cringe with every step. I need to make an appointment with my surgeon to have my limb examined. Unfortunately, the appointment will need to wait.

Wednesday I am driving to Pittsburgh to visit the specialists concerning my pituitary tumors. I haven't been nervous about the appointment until now. On the other hand, I haven't had time to think about it. I've been moving from one project to another with blinders on. I've had little time to look ahead. I've known about the appointment for months, but it somehow feels like it sneaked up on me.

When I think about the appointment and the possible surgery, I become scared. I am used to having surgery on my lower extremities, but the prospect of a laser being aimed near my brain terrifies me! I suspect that my avoidance of thinking about the impending appointment is a result of my fear as much as my busy schedule. But the appointment is now tomorrow, so I cannot put off dealing with it any longer.

I'm going to try to rest my leg, but I need to pack and get ready to go to Pittsburgh. Hopefully I'll have more answers concerning my health tomorrow. I know that I'll feel better once I have a definitive treatment plan. Until then, I think I'll stick with denial. It keeps me from worrying and crying!