It's been a while since I last wrote on the blog. The bronchitis I had starting back in late November continued to plague me up through December, January and February. I had to get chest X-rays a couple times to make sure I hadn't developed pneumonia. Antibiotics didn't do the trick. So, my GP finally suggested I try a round of Prednisone before she needed to refer me to a pulmonary specialist. The Prednisone did it -- although I'm currently experiencing allergies and sinus infection. Sheesh!

I was preparing to fly off to the Southern California deserts next week, but I just cancelled the trip. I felt good enough to go but, because of concerns over the corona virus, it seemed wise to cancel my plans. My primary physician reminded me that I'm in two high risk groups -- having multiple myeloma, and being "old." Even though my monthly lab numbers show that my cancer is nearly indetectible, I still have a compromised immune system. I had wanted to go off to the desert since it was one of Tim and my favorite places. I have so many memories (and photos!) of our time in the desert. I tried to imagine what Tim might have done. Knowing Tim, I first thought he might not have gotten overly paranoid about the corona virus and gone ahead with the trip. But, then, I also remembered how protective he was of me when I was undergoing a stem cell transplant. No visitors for months. We had inside shoes and outside shoes. Wiped off all mail and packages that came to the house. Lots of hand washing and disinfectants. Tim did all the grocery shopping. I never left our house or yard. So, in the interest of safeguarding my health and keeping myself in good shape for future trips, I'm staying put for now.

I hope all of you remain healthy and that this pandemic is over soon. I'm also hoping that my plans for an Arizona and New Mexico trip in April, and a visit with my Dad in Milwaukee for his 100th birthday in May won't be jeopardized. As they say, one day at a time.

Devil's Claw (Proboscidea parviflora)