Dec. 17, 1985… I didn't elaborate on my 24th birthday; I should fill in the days. There were 30 birthday cards in all. I hadn't expected it, since 24 is a rather "blah" age, and also, I keep thinking the cancer situation will become old hat. I guess I was very wrong. Thursday I walked with Mom to Bev's Xmas Coffee; just 4 houses away. I got tired, then so hot; I could hardly walk home. Mom had wanted to take the car, but I would have felt like a fool for such a short trip. She was right; it was very tiring.
Saturday Mom had a special dinner planned so all could see the new addition to the Isaacson clan. It didn't work out so well; the guest of honor left!
Dec. 23, 1985… We enjoyed a lovely dinner at Chet and Margaret's.
The nausea almost spoiled my evening, but it finally passed (whew!).
There were just the 3 of them, the 3 of us, and Les. It's better
without all the weird things that happen when too many are invited!
Dec. 24, 1985… CHRISTMAS EVE DAY. . . I felt good today. Jon came over around 2:00 and stayed until 4:00. We stayed downstairs by the Christmas tree. He wrapped up a 6-pack of orange-flavored mineral water for me. I had ordered a boomerang for him; and so ended our Christmas.
The family Christmas was great, as usual. Les came, too. We had
Cornish Hens, potatoes, stuffing, bread and waldorf salad; excellent!
Afterwards, we read the Xmas story and a few other readings; then we had our exchange.
Dec. 25, 1985… Todd and Debra came for today. Our big meal was at noon. Mom fixed a turkey breast with all the trimmings. We had our gift exchange in the afternoon. Todd got a kick out of his "reality mug" and a Far Side daily calendar.
Dec. 27, 1985… I'm getting sick again, temp of 101… arhythmia heart action lasted 12 hours. This was an illness of long duration. I stayed upstairs. . . I had to waken Mom, (she has been sleeping up-stairs). We tried the deep breathing, plus a few other things. I finally took a valium and tried to relax. Mom called the doctor as early as she dared; he called in a prescription for a heart regulator.
Jan. 1, 1986… Mom made Cornish Hens again for just the 3 of us.
I enjoyed the dinner so. We watched the Vienna concert at night.
Jan. 11, 1986… I stay upstairs now, coming down only to have Mom wash my hair using the spray on the kitchen sink. The steps are such a drag, and I like being near all the things I need. I'm so glad I have the upstairs apartment.