I think one of the first Westerns I ever saw was Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Somewhere in the middle of the movie, the two of them have to get out of town fast and they head into the bad lands of Utah. Huge expanses under a big sky. You are at the same time exposed and hidden in the enormity of the landscape. The two heroes would ride from ridge to ridge and then stop to look back. They scan the horizon in silence. Are they being followed ? A spec of dust on the horizon, is it them ? Just dust from the winds ? Have a quick watch. You will see what I mean.
I was thinking of that scene today when we met with the oncologist. After a week break from the chemo, Kath is scanning the proverbial horizon. Is the lymph node in her shoulder really bigger ? Is it because of the cancer ? The infection ? Maybe its nothing. It sort of feels like that scene. After all the efforts of the surgery, radiation and chemo — or Slash, Burn and Poison as Kathleen says, how could the cancer still be there. She has come so far, with so much effort, how is it possible there are specs of dust following her on the horizon?
Round 9 tomorrow. White Blood Cell count, platelets and kidney functions all passed so she is good to go. The doctor asked if she wanted to do just half strength to make it a bit easier. Nope, full strength. There are specs of dust on the horizon.
—Mike
in the cancer bubble 
Hi Kathleen & Mike- I am very happy you were home for Christmas Kathleen and able to enjoy your Christmas decorations (that was a lovely picture of you beside the tree). Best wishes for an uneventful round 9 tomorrow –
Deanne
thinking of you both, always
hugs
Hi Mike and Kathleen,
It always amazes me how you bounce back after each onslaught of chemo. Vital functions normal. WBC, platelets, kidney ready to go again.
Good luck tomorrow. Thinking of you from far away.
Love Judy
Oh, Mike, that scene from Butch Cassidy, is so calming in a way. I grew up watching Westerns with my Dad, I think my first one was High Noon with Gary Cooper. I was also thinking the ‘good guy’ always prevailed, in one way or another. Kath, you are amazing, all signs say you are ready to go for today, that speaks volumes! Those dust balls have to be fading! You will be in our thoughts today, as always! Hugs! Colleen
Dear Mike and Kathleen,
Your words on this blog posting and the movie clip provides such an incredible visual and allows for a glimpse into your thoughts and realities at this time in your journey. I hope that your surroundings will be clam, the skies will be bright for you and the trail you take tomorrow will be smooth. Keeping you close in our thoughts.
Much love and big hugs to you both.
xo Jill and family