Gabrielle

I am back after the successful surgery which led to my last break, and it's time I catch up. Since the middle of May we have had a wedding followed by a funeral in our family, and life continues to be very complicated. So, I am updating my profile, but will be taking another break, probably of a longer duration, as we are in the midst of moving back to my husband's home town. So, here are the updates, and I will be back -- can't live without Swap-Bot for too long! Here's my personal stuff, with updates. Mother of 4 plus a "courtesy daughter", grandmother of 10 (the oldest one now lives and works in Boise, ID, and just got married, and the youngest is now 7 and in second grade. I am a life member of Girl Scouts of the USA, as is my husband. I'm a retired teacher, married for almost 54 years to a wonderful man. I call Alaska home (Univ. of AK/Fairbanks, '67) but am currently living in Arizona, although mot for too much longer! We are active in our church and a little with Girl Scouts although I no longer have a troop. Love to read, do counted cross-stitch, and travel. Please note this says "living" in AZ, not "loving" AZ. No offense to true Arizonans -- there is a lot to enjoy in Arizona with great people and fun things to do -- but it's just too hot here for someone who prefers -22 degrees!

Almost anything except heavy metal. Especially love Kathy Troccoli, Babie Mason, Point of Grace, and the Baroque period in classical music. And the Eagles!

Fried Green Tomatoes, The Silence of the Lambs, Driving Miss Daisy, and Day of the Triffids -- and most of the Disney classic animation! And I am now adding I Am Legend, thanks to a grandson who said we had to see it. And Wild Wild West -- I think maybe I have become a Will Smith fan!

All the Law & Order and CSI shows, NCIS and the spin-offs, although the original is still the best. And Rizzoli and Iles,and Castle and bones, all of which I hated to see end. And Wheel of Fortune! And we just discovered The Good Doctor, and are waiting for This Is Us to return.

Mostly cross-stitch, although a slight vision problem since my stroke makes that a little more difficult. I enjoy ATC's and try to use "leftovers" to create 3-D effects. I also like zentangles, and often make up my own patterns. Also some plastic canvas work, and painting murals on walls, especially for the grandchildren. I prefer "cool" colors, esp. greens and blues. I don't really like mustard tones (lived with too much of it growing up as my mother really liked them!)

One additional note! My first name seems to pose a problem for some partners, so I just want to point out that it is spelled correctly when it comes up with my address. It is Pamelia, with an "i" before the last "a" and is pronounced so as to rhyme with Amelia. I really love it because I was named for my grandmother, whom I adored, and it means a lot to me, so many thanks to all those who have spelled it correctly!

Also -- I have received several invitations to groups, which I do appreciate, but my life is simply too unpredictable, and my likes too eclectic, for me to ever want to participate in a group. I just am not organized enough! So thanks anyway, but my answer will always be no thanks.

Finally, I an now almost 2 years past my last visit with Oncology at the Mayo Clinic, and they said don't come back -- you may now call yourself a survivor! I celebrated my first year cancer free with a butterfly tattoo -- butterflies symbolize resurrection! -- but I don't plan on adding another one. I am just basking in the thought that I have made it through. I really appreciate all the fellow swappers who sent me support and encouraging thoughts during the treatment process, as well as those who have continued to do so after reading my profile. And for everyone out there, a piece of relevant advice: GET YOUR MAMMOGRAMS!!! I am definite proof that early detection not only improves the survival rate, but it can make the treatment much less difficult! Take care of yourselves -- I hope to swap with many more of you in the future!

One last note for the Hot Drink and a Note Swap -- I drink just about anything except chai tea, and I love to try new things. I am looking forward to seeing what comes!