Yesterday I had my long awaited MRI performed.  I was put completely under due to the fact that I could not be certain that I would be able to be still for an hour on my back.  So Kath and Brother B were at OHSU from 12:30 (check-in) and stayed until 6:00.  A very long day for them, but I remember nothing except sliding onto a table around 2:45 and then opening my eyes around 5:00!  Now the very long wait until I hear the results that I am hoping for!  I will start my first chemo of the fifth round series next Wednesday.  Then I will wait another week until I see my doctor and find out results.  I am still feeling great, although my right side has gotten weaker, making it harder to use the walker.  I have learned to just take shorter steps and not hurry.  My biggest concern is avoiding a fall.  Kath does a great job of staying close to me just in case I happen to mess up.  I really appreciate those people that are with me in the fact that they don't rush me or make me feel that I am a burden.  I am learning how to make situations work.  This past Sunday I went to the buffet at The Inn of Orchard Heights with Kath, my Mom, relatives, Ken, Rhonda, and Kelly.  I was able to stand for about fifteen minutes (I then could visit), then sit for ten minutes (I could then eat), then back to standing, and then back to sitting.....  By doing this routine, we were there from 9:30 until 11:15.  When you find yourself not being able to do simple tasks that you use to take for granted, you then must be creative in getting those tasks done.  Suddenly I can't sit up straight to eat with a fork or spoon.  So I do the next best thing in that I lay on my side, which means that a booth works great because I have two or three seats to use.  I quit worrying about the stares of people several months ago, because I look strange as I move around to make myself comfortable.  You have to be confident in the person you are and make the best out of the situation.  I've actually started up conversations with many people because they have asked me if they could help.  I say that I am doing great and ask if I can do anything for them.  That usually surprises them and suddenly we are talking about them.  I love visiting with people and hearing about them.  I have learned that each day is a gift and you need to enjoy it to your best!  My days are no longer filled with physical activity of running or working out.  Now I spend my days with my wife, family, and friends as I walk through Costco, go to Great Harvest Bread Company, walk and sit in "my office" at Fred Meyer, watch my television series with Kath and "T"...  You simply change your focus, but you do not quit doing!  You adapt to the change.  Again, thanks for all your comments and thoughts!  We are going to keep after it and make it work!!  Love you all!!