Wednesday, July 27, 2011
I'm Going Home!
So happy. Short blog. Karen is coming at 9:30 to pick me up! See you soon hopefully. But will be resting for the rest of this week! Emma Lee
That Sir Paul!
As you can see, I'm up early to this little computer in the family room. What a great tool to have in here! We are still working on one area of concern, and as soon as that is tackled I should be able to get home. Now that I'm "in the system", I will be getting daily home visits so that will be great on the days Jim is in Halifax and I will also need my friends to check in as well. Getting my front room set-up is the next task. I am told I can get a hospital bed so that will be a great thing.
I can hear the rain pouring down on the windows. It is coming down in buckets. Plants won't need any watering today!
Oh, by the way, I took phone calls all night long from the Bell Centre. I got to hear Yesterday and Helter Skelter (the first encore) before the phone got mushy. That was at midnight. Jim said the show started late because they couldn't get Sir Paul out of NEW YORK CITY! (I have my own way of saying that - ala Sir Paul.) He played 3 hours, 2 full encores and it was an amazing show. Jim took loads of pictures. Can't wait to see them. He'll be back here around 8:30 tonight if flights are not delayed. Jim knows I would simply not have been able to endure the length of the night - he had to get into the Bell Centre at 3 (4 our time) and then wait for the sound check, which was late and then have supper, which was good, and then get first dibs at merch, which was great, and then wait for the show, for which he had to stand all the way through. I would have been a puddle on the ground. I somehow knew that in the back of my mind.
Anyway, have a wondrous day. It could be one of those days. I'm still a work in progress out here so we have to let the doctors and nurses do their thing. I will let you know when I am home. I'm very tired so please email me emmalee@eastlink.ca or call Jim at 396-6570 - he's home Sat - Tues.
Peace to you all. I'm turning my mind to thoughts of energy. Think of yours.
Emma Lee
I can hear the rain pouring down on the windows. It is coming down in buckets. Plants won't need any watering today!
Oh, by the way, I took phone calls all night long from the Bell Centre. I got to hear Yesterday and Helter Skelter (the first encore) before the phone got mushy. That was at midnight. Jim said the show started late because they couldn't get Sir Paul out of NEW YORK CITY! (I have my own way of saying that - ala Sir Paul.) He played 3 hours, 2 full encores and it was an amazing show. Jim took loads of pictures. Can't wait to see them. He'll be back here around 8:30 tonight if flights are not delayed. Jim knows I would simply not have been able to endure the length of the night - he had to get into the Bell Centre at 3 (4 our time) and then wait for the sound check, which was late and then have supper, which was good, and then get first dibs at merch, which was great, and then wait for the show, for which he had to stand all the way through. I would have been a puddle on the ground. I somehow knew that in the back of my mind.
Anyway, have a wondrous day. It could be one of those days. I'm still a work in progress out here so we have to let the doctors and nurses do their thing. I will let you know when I am home. I'm very tired so please email me emmalee@eastlink.ca or call Jim at 396-6570 - he's home Sat - Tues.
Peace to you all. I'm turning my mind to thoughts of energy. Think of yours.
Emma Lee
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Just Call Me The Girl Who Can No Longer Make Commitments
As Mary said, some interesting updates to my blog.
I'm sitting here in our fabulous palliative care unit at the Aberdeen Hospital. Jim is headed for the airport where I am making him take in Sir Paul's concert tonight in Montreal. We purchased this trip out of funds raised at Emma's Excursion of Hope - we split the monies into two portions: one to pay for our Maui trip and the other to pay for us to go to Montreal to see Sir Paul McCartney. I enjoyed the Maui trip. I would not enjoy the McCartney trip and it is against my doctor's advice that I would even consider going. I know that I could not do it. I am very weak. It would simply be wrong.
I'm back on steroids. The headaches have eased. The nausea has eased. One other area is holding us up and we are working on it. I will be here until that has settled down. Dr. Farrell wants me to feel well again. I want to feel well again. Traveling to McCartney and the excitement and not getting back til tomorrow night, while good for my soul potentially, would not be good for my old body. So here I sit.
Last night went wonderfully. That's what I hear. As the title to this blog says, I am now the girl who can no longer make commitments - of any kind. A full report and update shall follow, however, about last night.
There could be a much longer blog coming regarding my experience this past weekend. I'm not sure yet. I would caution folks to stay away from the ER on the weekends unless you are losing a limb. On Saturday everything got the best of me. I felt the worst I have ever felt in my life. My temperature was rising. I could not eat or drink. The pain in my side was atrocious. I knew I had to get help. I came to the ER at 3:30 or so. I stayed in the ER until a bed was found in the maternity ward on Sunday night and then on Monday when Jim arrived I sent him to find Joanne Cumminger, cancer patient navigator. It was not too much longer before Dr. Farrell was walking into my room, and putting me next on the list for a bed in the palliative ward, telling me he was going to make me feel well again (from me - and hopefully erase the experience I had just come through). Dr. MacLean has also been by twice to see me. My level of comfort has been boosted. Oh, I have to mention Dr. Colin Sutton, who on Sunday just happened to see Jim leaving the hospital and inquired about me and off he went and I just know that he touched something off (the maternity ward placement - the fact that I am involved with palliative care?) as well.
Poor Jack Layton. When he had his operation last year I knew in my mind he had developed metastatic prostate cancer. I just knew it. He looks dreadful. No one has used that term metastatic prostate cancer, calling it a new cancer instead (hmm); perhaps because he's a famous politician. There's no cure for metastatic disease, but potential cures for new cancers.
I keep saying this phrase - listen up - but "quality of life" is what it is all about. Quality of life people.
I have to be honest. I'm trying not to cry and think about Jim and Sir Paul. These seats allow us to go to the sound check and a meet and greet. Jim had been working on me getting to meet Paul. We never did get a satisfactory resolution to that. Jim says it would be easier to meet the Queen. I said it would be easier if I were 7 years old.
The Reason for Hope CD will be released in Pictou County during the Dragon Boat festival. It will be for sale on the Race site - Friday night in the Race merch tent and on race day in the lost and found area/carnation purchase area, etc. I have a team that will also be selling - Janet Ervin and Liz Van den Eynden will have product in advance and if you see them coming, pull out your wallet! We have a minimum number of CDs that have to be purchased and listened to here in Pictou County. These songs have to let their energy into our Pictou County air! It's a fabulous project: If I may, track 15 first! My daughter put together a wonderful project!!! Thanks to Tammy too for all her hard work.
Peace to you today. I hope to be home before week's end.
Emma Lee
I'm sitting here in our fabulous palliative care unit at the Aberdeen Hospital. Jim is headed for the airport where I am making him take in Sir Paul's concert tonight in Montreal. We purchased this trip out of funds raised at Emma's Excursion of Hope - we split the monies into two portions: one to pay for our Maui trip and the other to pay for us to go to Montreal to see Sir Paul McCartney. I enjoyed the Maui trip. I would not enjoy the McCartney trip and it is against my doctor's advice that I would even consider going. I know that I could not do it. I am very weak. It would simply be wrong.
I'm back on steroids. The headaches have eased. The nausea has eased. One other area is holding us up and we are working on it. I will be here until that has settled down. Dr. Farrell wants me to feel well again. I want to feel well again. Traveling to McCartney and the excitement and not getting back til tomorrow night, while good for my soul potentially, would not be good for my old body. So here I sit.
Last night went wonderfully. That's what I hear. As the title to this blog says, I am now the girl who can no longer make commitments - of any kind. A full report and update shall follow, however, about last night.
There could be a much longer blog coming regarding my experience this past weekend. I'm not sure yet. I would caution folks to stay away from the ER on the weekends unless you are losing a limb. On Saturday everything got the best of me. I felt the worst I have ever felt in my life. My temperature was rising. I could not eat or drink. The pain in my side was atrocious. I knew I had to get help. I came to the ER at 3:30 or so. I stayed in the ER until a bed was found in the maternity ward on Sunday night and then on Monday when Jim arrived I sent him to find Joanne Cumminger, cancer patient navigator. It was not too much longer before Dr. Farrell was walking into my room, and putting me next on the list for a bed in the palliative ward, telling me he was going to make me feel well again (from me - and hopefully erase the experience I had just come through). Dr. MacLean has also been by twice to see me. My level of comfort has been boosted. Oh, I have to mention Dr. Colin Sutton, who on Sunday just happened to see Jim leaving the hospital and inquired about me and off he went and I just know that he touched something off (the maternity ward placement - the fact that I am involved with palliative care?) as well.
Poor Jack Layton. When he had his operation last year I knew in my mind he had developed metastatic prostate cancer. I just knew it. He looks dreadful. No one has used that term metastatic prostate cancer, calling it a new cancer instead (hmm); perhaps because he's a famous politician. There's no cure for metastatic disease, but potential cures for new cancers.
I keep saying this phrase - listen up - but "quality of life" is what it is all about. Quality of life people.
I have to be honest. I'm trying not to cry and think about Jim and Sir Paul. These seats allow us to go to the sound check and a meet and greet. Jim had been working on me getting to meet Paul. We never did get a satisfactory resolution to that. Jim says it would be easier to meet the Queen. I said it would be easier if I were 7 years old.
The Reason for Hope CD will be released in Pictou County during the Dragon Boat festival. It will be for sale on the Race site - Friday night in the Race merch tent and on race day in the lost and found area/carnation purchase area, etc. I have a team that will also be selling - Janet Ervin and Liz Van den Eynden will have product in advance and if you see them coming, pull out your wallet! We have a minimum number of CDs that have to be purchased and listened to here in Pictou County. These songs have to let their energy into our Pictou County air! It's a fabulous project: If I may, track 15 first! My daughter put together a wonderful project!!! Thanks to Tammy too for all her hard work.
Peace to you today. I hope to be home before week's end.
Emma Lee
Monday, July 25, 2011
A Note From Mary
Hello Everyone,
Today is a big day in the Stewart house.
Tammy Milbury from Codapop Studio (Halifax, NS) and I have been working over the last year on this fantastic Compilation CD which will be available for sale tonight at The Carleton! The silent auction starts at 6:30PM, music will begin at 8PM we have a wonderful line up including : Ruth Minnikin, David Myles, Lennie Gallant, myself and a secret special guest! Admission is $20.00 and CDs are $15.00, the proceeds are going towards Metastatic Breast Cancer Research!
On another note,
My mother, Emma Lee was admitted to the Aberdeen on Saturday Evening and I am certain she will have a very exciting blog post for you when she returns home to her kitties.
She wanted to be at this event so badly and is forcing my father to still attend on her behalf.
Please send out the positive healing vibes as tomorrow she is supposed to fly to Montreal for a visit with Sir Paul McCartney.
Sincerely,
Mary Stewart
Today is a big day in the Stewart house.
Tammy Milbury from Codapop Studio (Halifax, NS) and I have been working over the last year on this fantastic Compilation CD which will be available for sale tonight at The Carleton! The silent auction starts at 6:30PM, music will begin at 8PM we have a wonderful line up including : Ruth Minnikin, David Myles, Lennie Gallant, myself and a secret special guest! Admission is $20.00 and CDs are $15.00, the proceeds are going towards Metastatic Breast Cancer Research!
On another note,
My mother, Emma Lee was admitted to the Aberdeen on Saturday Evening and I am certain she will have a very exciting blog post for you when she returns home to her kitties.
She wanted to be at this event so badly and is forcing my father to still attend on her behalf.
Please send out the positive healing vibes as tomorrow she is supposed to fly to Montreal for a visit with Sir Paul McCartney.
Sincerely,
Mary Stewart
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
The Hammock Got The Better Of Me!
The hammock got the better of me. There it is - perched in the "back 40", and this afternoon I could not resist. It was an awesome couple of hours.
This morning I had a fabulous conversation with a dear friend. He reminded me of the energy of love that has been surrounding me and my family throughout this journey. Oh, don't get me wrong, I am everyday reminded of it. But, as I think you have gathered, I'm not feeling well, and when I'm not feeling well, it's hard for me to focus. Really, really hard. It is something that I am trying to come to terms with. In the dark of night, I call upon all of the energy that is surrounding me to become a part of me, to fill me and take away all negative energy. I cry for that to happen. So today, I'm crying for all of the positive to fill me. And that positive is love. That's what happened in the hammock in the back 40.
As I was laying under my trusty old maple tree, with the sun shining through at just the right angle to see a spider's web in all its glory, and to watch the sun dance on the leaves of that tree, like drops of sunshine really, silently raining down on me, I felt love filling me up. I was taken away somewhere, and for a couple of hours, I felt fabulous. Love. Can you pull it up? Can you imagine it? The love that fills this universe? The energy of love that fills this universe? There were children happily playing and a dog barking (in the distance), and the world seemed just right for a good long while. Now that is a memory I am going to replay, over and over again, and hope that tomorrow it will happen all over again.
Peace to you all. Get out there and experience the love in this universe. Open your hearts and minds and pull it all in: accept it, it's there for us, for all of us.
Emma Lee
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
It's a beautiful morning. I haven't heard the weather and am not going to make a point of listening. I'm just enjoying it right now. The pool is filling. The breeze is awesome and cool and I'm quite content. I'm working as hard as I can to push back these feelings of unwellness. It's been 4 days since I started Xeloda. The nausea is indescribable. I'm going to give it until Friday before I check in with the gals at Chemo. I'm thinking I just have to get used to the rhythm of taking these pills. The nausea pill I have has to be taken 1/2 hour before meals and the Xeloda has to be taken with food. Four tablets in the morning and three tables in the evening. I don't like to have snacks before bed, but I am now.
What a good time I had on Saturday. Besides lots of friends and a beautiful location, Auntie Liz had Honey there. I'm posting a picture. She's a darling little thing. I miss her so much.
The cats and I are having a stand-off. I can't tolerate them. Something radical has changed inside me. I cannot tolerate them. Puff is a wonderful male cat. He's fixed. He loves to play. He spends a lot of time playing and he also is quite vocal, expressing himself in little "chirtles" I will call them. He is about 2 years old, white and lovely. I'll post a picture of his little face. Boobadee is not doing well. She had been, but she's not eating and spitting out her pills and generally not doing well. We will be taking her to the Vet. Puff is Mary's cat but she's in no position to have another cat in Toronto.
Anyway, back to business here. Jim is home today, then working in Halifax for the balance of the week. CD release is fast approaching. I did an interview with the Coast yesterday by telephone. It went well. Spread the word. I hope we have a crowd. The evening is going to be spectacular!
So today, I will finish my book in Lloyd and Gwen's hammock - I'm hopeful they haven't forgotten they have left it here for my use. Jim will be in the pool tonight, I have the feeling. It is great to get the house back to some sort of organization. Pray for Boobadee. She's been the greatest little cat. She adopted us. She's been the source of much inspiration, but her time has come. Pray that Puff finds a good home. He's a dandy little cat, and will be a loyal guy to a caring family.
Peace to you all today,
Emma Lee
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Saturday In Nova Scotia!
My goodness the weather. Is it really July 16th? Anyway, we shall survive.
Aileen has asked me out to her place today, and I guess there will be some others joining us as well. I can't wait! Jim is coming along too. Aileen's cottage is close to the beach where he grew up so he can stroll and check out the changes and perhaps run into old friends he hasn't seen in a while.
At 8:20 a.m. this morning I had the courage to start my next chemo, Xeloda. I take 4, 500 mg pills in the morning and 3, 500 mg pills in the evening. There is also a new anti nausea drug, that I misunderstood. I was supposed to take it a-half hour before I ate, and then take the Xeloda, but whatever. I'll get it into me at some point, and that mistake will not happen again. Reading the side effects on both has me pretty freaked out though. But, as Lee said last night, they have to list the side-effects but a very small minority of people actually end up experiencing them. Dr. Farrell told me yesterday that within 10 days is when the side-effects will occur, if they are going to occur. So, we shall see. I am praying the new anti nausea is really good, cause I am severely nauseated, without Xeloda! Yikes. Hopefully this Xeloda will manage things for a while.
Liz may have Honey for a drive this afternoon, and she just might pass by Aileen's! I really, really hope so.
I have another trip planned. I've been pretty quiet about this one. But here goes: At the same time we planned our trip to Maui, we learned that Paul McCartney is touring again. So on the day after the CD release in Halifax, we will fly Porter Airlines to Montreal. We have seats in the 3rd row from the front and will see McCartney at the Bell Centre in Montreal. We bought the tickets that allow us into the sound check and into a meet and greet, but there's really no guarantee that McCartney will show up or that we will get to meet him. Keep your fingers crossed for me. Jim's working on it. So that Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday will be very busy days for me. I'll be needing some rest after that and that of course is the 10th day since starting Xeloda! I'm a sight to see anyway. Let's hope I don't get the rash and the hand and feet problems for that night.
I see the gals at chemo and Dr. Farrell again on the 5th. In the meantime, if any problems occur, they are there for me.
Alright, enjoy this summer day, even if it doesn't feel like a summer day. This is our life and our time. So get out there and enjoy it.
Peace,
Emma Lee
Aileen has asked me out to her place today, and I guess there will be some others joining us as well. I can't wait! Jim is coming along too. Aileen's cottage is close to the beach where he grew up so he can stroll and check out the changes and perhaps run into old friends he hasn't seen in a while.
At 8:20 a.m. this morning I had the courage to start my next chemo, Xeloda. I take 4, 500 mg pills in the morning and 3, 500 mg pills in the evening. There is also a new anti nausea drug, that I misunderstood. I was supposed to take it a-half hour before I ate, and then take the Xeloda, but whatever. I'll get it into me at some point, and that mistake will not happen again. Reading the side effects on both has me pretty freaked out though. But, as Lee said last night, they have to list the side-effects but a very small minority of people actually end up experiencing them. Dr. Farrell told me yesterday that within 10 days is when the side-effects will occur, if they are going to occur. So, we shall see. I am praying the new anti nausea is really good, cause I am severely nauseated, without Xeloda! Yikes. Hopefully this Xeloda will manage things for a while.
Liz may have Honey for a drive this afternoon, and she just might pass by Aileen's! I really, really hope so.
I have another trip planned. I've been pretty quiet about this one. But here goes: At the same time we planned our trip to Maui, we learned that Paul McCartney is touring again. So on the day after the CD release in Halifax, we will fly Porter Airlines to Montreal. We have seats in the 3rd row from the front and will see McCartney at the Bell Centre in Montreal. We bought the tickets that allow us into the sound check and into a meet and greet, but there's really no guarantee that McCartney will show up or that we will get to meet him. Keep your fingers crossed for me. Jim's working on it. So that Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday will be very busy days for me. I'll be needing some rest after that and that of course is the 10th day since starting Xeloda! I'm a sight to see anyway. Let's hope I don't get the rash and the hand and feet problems for that night.
I see the gals at chemo and Dr. Farrell again on the 5th. In the meantime, if any problems occur, they are there for me.
Alright, enjoy this summer day, even if it doesn't feel like a summer day. This is our life and our time. So get out there and enjoy it.
Peace,
Emma Lee
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Judy took these pictures today at the Museum Porch
First picture is Holly Lynn and Anna - the two students employed there this summer! They are doing a great job!
A Few Things About Yesterday
Yesterday was a busy day.
In the morning, Murray dropped by with a CD of some tunes that he's currently listening to, and a strawberry rhubarb pie! He also had his Pictou County made Whitaker Guitar and we played a couple of bluegrass numbers together, which he sang, and it was awesome. He was on his way to see Everett, my number one drummer, to have lunch. My memories turn back to our original Holy Potion days at Trinity and it is wonderful to have friends like this.
Next, Lee arrived home. Yay.
A bit later, Jim Shaffner called to say he found his air conditioner in storage and he wondered whether I might like it as I had borrowed it last year. Bring it on. So I have an air conditioner in the living room and in my bedroom, ensuring comfortability. Now, will the weather ever arrive?
Lee and I had a good visit, reviewing the pictures from Hawaii. He loves his new Hawaiian shirt and I hope Tessa will like her gift too! Lee displayed his talent at painting one of the pictures from Hawaii that Jim and I had taken. At Whaler's Village, we found one of those little photo booths. I haven't had a picture taken in one of those since I was a kid. We jumped in to have a photo taken. It took several tries and was very confusing for us old folks. Anyway, we finally had one we thought, as our time was up (I don't remember time limits), but anyway Jim had a very "evil" look on his face and I will never be sharing this picture! Lee and I had a great laugh and then Lee added some more details. I'll leave it at that but it is funny.
Then Lee and I ordered a pizza for supper which was absolutely delicious, and in fact, I felt almost like my appetite was coming back!!!
The final event of the day was one that Jim urged me to go to. He came home from Halifax to do a "cry" at a Communities in Bloom event that the Town was holding at Glasgow Square. He told me I had to go. I was confused, and not sure why I had to go to a Communities in Bloom event, but got ready anyway and we arrived at the Square around 8. It was a lovely presentation and the National reps from CIB were there. Then there were the awards. To our shock and surprise, the Town of New Glasgow and CIB presented us the "2011 Flourish & Thrive Award". Kim Dickson, in her remarks, noted how events that we have touched have gone on to make New Glasgow flourish and thrive. We are both very touched, honoured and proud of this award. Very, very lovely on the part of the Town. We will continue to pray that New Glasgow Flourish!
Then home and the end of a very busy day!
This morning started with a set on the Museum doorsteps. I had a good time and there was a lovely crowd - and we even joked about forming the Carmichael-Stewart House Chorale!
I was so cold by the time I got home I made macaroni and cheese and again I am hoping that my appetite is coming back, since I had the craving for this comfort food.
Anyway, find some comforts today that give you pleasure. I'm going to continue reading my book and I have a snugly prayer shawl to keep me warm. Lee is off to see Metallica and Jim found a place to stay in Halifax tonight. Tonight, the cats and I will hold down the fort here at home and, best of all, I hear my pool may be fixed this weekend!
Peace to you all,
Emma Lee
In the morning, Murray dropped by with a CD of some tunes that he's currently listening to, and a strawberry rhubarb pie! He also had his Pictou County made Whitaker Guitar and we played a couple of bluegrass numbers together, which he sang, and it was awesome. He was on his way to see Everett, my number one drummer, to have lunch. My memories turn back to our original Holy Potion days at Trinity and it is wonderful to have friends like this.
Next, Lee arrived home. Yay.
A bit later, Jim Shaffner called to say he found his air conditioner in storage and he wondered whether I might like it as I had borrowed it last year. Bring it on. So I have an air conditioner in the living room and in my bedroom, ensuring comfortability. Now, will the weather ever arrive?
Lee and I had a good visit, reviewing the pictures from Hawaii. He loves his new Hawaiian shirt and I hope Tessa will like her gift too! Lee displayed his talent at painting one of the pictures from Hawaii that Jim and I had taken. At Whaler's Village, we found one of those little photo booths. I haven't had a picture taken in one of those since I was a kid. We jumped in to have a photo taken. It took several tries and was very confusing for us old folks. Anyway, we finally had one we thought, as our time was up (I don't remember time limits), but anyway Jim had a very "evil" look on his face and I will never be sharing this picture! Lee and I had a great laugh and then Lee added some more details. I'll leave it at that but it is funny.
Then Lee and I ordered a pizza for supper which was absolutely delicious, and in fact, I felt almost like my appetite was coming back!!!
The final event of the day was one that Jim urged me to go to. He came home from Halifax to do a "cry" at a Communities in Bloom event that the Town was holding at Glasgow Square. He told me I had to go. I was confused, and not sure why I had to go to a Communities in Bloom event, but got ready anyway and we arrived at the Square around 8. It was a lovely presentation and the National reps from CIB were there. Then there were the awards. To our shock and surprise, the Town of New Glasgow and CIB presented us the "2011 Flourish & Thrive Award". Kim Dickson, in her remarks, noted how events that we have touched have gone on to make New Glasgow flourish and thrive. We are both very touched, honoured and proud of this award. Very, very lovely on the part of the Town. We will continue to pray that New Glasgow Flourish!
Then home and the end of a very busy day!
This morning started with a set on the Museum doorsteps. I had a good time and there was a lovely crowd - and we even joked about forming the Carmichael-Stewart House Chorale!
I was so cold by the time I got home I made macaroni and cheese and again I am hoping that my appetite is coming back, since I had the craving for this comfort food.
Anyway, find some comforts today that give you pleasure. I'm going to continue reading my book and I have a snugly prayer shawl to keep me warm. Lee is off to see Metallica and Jim found a place to stay in Halifax tonight. Tonight, the cats and I will hold down the fort here at home and, best of all, I hear my pool may be fixed this weekend!
Peace to you all,
Emma Lee
Press Release for CD Release
HALIFAX
July 14, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CODAPOP RECORDING STUDIO IS PROUD
TO PRESENT "THE REASON FOR HOPE" COMPILATION CD RELEASE.
July 25th, 2011 marks the official CD Release for "The Reason For Hope", a collection of Eastern Canadian artists in aid of Metastatic Breast Cancer research.
The evening, hosted by The Carleton Restaurant on Argyle Street, Halifax, will be a night to celebrate with friends as musicians come together in an optimistic way to make a change and raise awareness of this disease. We recommend you purchase tickets in advance from The Carleton at 902-422-6335.
A silent auction will be held at the venue and will start at 6:30pm. Music starts at 730pm, including performances by Emma Lee Stewart, Ruth Minnikin, David Myles and Mary Stewart as well as other artists featured on the CD. During the evening the audience will also be granted a special performance by Lennie Gallant. Tickets are $20.00.
In May of 2010, New Glasgow resident Emma Lee Stewart (Founding chair of The New Glasgow Riverfront Jubilee, Former Chair of the New Glasgow Music Festival, Former board member of The New Glasgow Dragon Boat Festival, Choir Director and vocal instructor) learned her cancer had returned for the second time. This time, however, it returned as metastatic breast cancer, seeded in her liver. Over the last year the cancer has spread leaving metastasis in her bones and brain. Upon her first diagnosis with Breast Cancer in 2006, Stewart founded The Reason For Hope, a non profit Nova Scotia Society which has donated money to: The Canadian Cancer Society, The Lodge That Gives and the Oncology Department at the Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, among others.
In an attempt to turn a negative situation into a positive one, her daughter, Mary Stewart, had the idea of spreading awareness through music. During 2010, Mary reached out to friends of the Stewart Family to make this project possible. Codapop Studios (www.codapop.com) have worked on this project with Mary, allowing use of their Halifax Studio to record select tracks from Emma Lee Stewart, Doris Mason, Mary Stewart and The Danger Bees for this project.
The fundraising goal for this project is $15,000.00. Net proceeds will flow to The Canadian Breast Cancer Network for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research to make a change for women who find themselves in this situation in the future via The Reason For Hope Society.
The Reason For Hope CD includes: Alert The Medic, Amos The Transparent, Crissi Cochrane, Crush Luther, David Myles, Doris Mason, Emma Lee Stewart, Hopeful Monster, In Flight Safety, Jenn Grant, Lennie Gallant, Mary Stewart, Matt Minglewood, Rose Cousins, Ruth Minnikin, The Danger Bees and The Love Machine.
Thank you to our contributing sponsors: The Delta Halifax, Turbine by Lisa Drader Murphy and The Carleton for helping make this night possible.
-30-
For Press Inquiries please contact;
Mary Stewart
Cool Planet Entertainment
647.960.2593
marzstewart@gmail.com
Interviews with Emma Lee Stewart can be arranged via:
emmalee@eastlink.ca
902.752.1650
July 14, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CODAPOP RECORDING STUDIO IS PROUD
TO PRESENT "THE REASON FOR HOPE" COMPILATION CD RELEASE.
July 25th, 2011 marks the official CD Release for "The Reason For Hope", a collection of Eastern Canadian artists in aid of Metastatic Breast Cancer research.
The evening, hosted by The Carleton Restaurant on Argyle Street, Halifax, will be a night to celebrate with friends as musicians come together in an optimistic way to make a change and raise awareness of this disease. We recommend you purchase tickets in advance from The Carleton at 902-422-6335.
A silent auction will be held at the venue and will start at 6:30pm. Music starts at 730pm, including performances by Emma Lee Stewart, Ruth Minnikin, David Myles and Mary Stewart as well as other artists featured on the CD. During the evening the audience will also be granted a special performance by Lennie Gallant. Tickets are $20.00.
In May of 2010, New Glasgow resident Emma Lee Stewart (Founding chair of The New Glasgow Riverfront Jubilee, Former Chair of the New Glasgow Music Festival, Former board member of The New Glasgow Dragon Boat Festival, Choir Director and vocal instructor) learned her cancer had returned for the second time. This time, however, it returned as metastatic breast cancer, seeded in her liver. Over the last year the cancer has spread leaving metastasis in her bones and brain. Upon her first diagnosis with Breast Cancer in 2006, Stewart founded The Reason For Hope, a non profit Nova Scotia Society which has donated money to: The Canadian Cancer Society, The Lodge That Gives and the Oncology Department at the Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, among others.
In an attempt to turn a negative situation into a positive one, her daughter, Mary Stewart, had the idea of spreading awareness through music. During 2010, Mary reached out to friends of the Stewart Family to make this project possible. Codapop Studios (www.codapop.com) have worked on this project with Mary, allowing use of their Halifax Studio to record select tracks from Emma Lee Stewart, Doris Mason, Mary Stewart and The Danger Bees for this project.
The fundraising goal for this project is $15,000.00. Net proceeds will flow to The Canadian Breast Cancer Network for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research to make a change for women who find themselves in this situation in the future via The Reason For Hope Society.
The Reason For Hope CD includes: Alert The Medic, Amos The Transparent, Crissi Cochrane, Crush Luther, David Myles, Doris Mason, Emma Lee Stewart, Hopeful Monster, In Flight Safety, Jenn Grant, Lennie Gallant, Mary Stewart, Matt Minglewood, Rose Cousins, Ruth Minnikin, The Danger Bees and The Love Machine.
Thank you to our contributing sponsors: The Delta Halifax, Turbine by Lisa Drader Murphy and The Carleton for helping make this night possible.
-30-
For Press Inquiries please contact;
Mary Stewart
Cool Planet Entertainment
647.960.2593
marzstewart@gmail.com
Interviews with Emma Lee Stewart can be arranged via:
emmalee@eastlink.ca
902.752.1650
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
The Reason for Hope CD Release Party - July 25th, 2011
Codapop Recording Studio is proud to present:
July 25th, 2011 marks the official CD Release for "The Reason For Hope", a collection of Eastern Canadian artists in aid of Metastatic Breast Cancer research.
The evening, hosted by The Carleton Restaurant on Argyle Street, will be a night to celebrate with friends as musicians come together in an optimistic way to make a change and raise awareness for this disease. We recommend that... you purchase tickets in advance from The Carleton at 902-422-6335.
Come out and have a drink, peruse the items and say hello to friends.
A silent auction will be held at the venue and will start at 6:30pm. Music starts at 8pm, including performances by Emma Lee Stewart, Ruth Minnikin, David Myles and Mary Stewart as well as other artists featured on the CD. There will also be a special performance by Lennie Gallant. Tickets to the event are $20.00 and we will have CDs for sale at $15.00.
Thank you to our contributing sponsors: The Delta Halifax , Turbine by Lisa Drader Murphy and The Carleton for helping make this night possible.
In May of 2010, New Glasgow resident Emma Lee Stewart learned her cancer had returned for the second time. This time, however, it returned as metastatic breast cancer, seeded in her liver. Over the last year the cancer has spread leaving metastasis in her bones and brain. Upon her first diagnosis with Breast Cancer in 2006, Stewart founded The Reason For Hope Not-For-Profit Society which has donated money to The Canadian Cancer Society, The Lodge That Gives and The Oncology Department at the Aberdeen hospital in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.
Prior to Stewart's diagnosis, she has been actively involved in the music community of Nova Scotia for years as founding chair of The New Glasgow Riverfront Jubilee, a member of the board of The Provincial Music Festival, a vocal teacher, and a board member of The New Glasgow Dragon Boat Festival, to name a few.
In attempt to turn a negative situation into a positive one, her daughter, Mary Stewart, got the idea of spreading the message through music. During the year of 2010, Mary reached out to friends of the Stewart family to make this project possible. We here at Codapop Studios (www.codapop.com) have worked on this project with Mary, allowing use of our Halifax Studio to record select tracks from Emma Lee Stewart, Doris Mason, Mary Stewart and The Danger Bees for this project.
All of the musicians on this CD are longtime friends of the Stewart family and have kindly donated their songs to help spread awareness for this worthy cause.
The fundraising goal for this project is $15,000.00. Net proceeds will flow to The Breast Cancer Network for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research to make a change for women who find themselves in this situation in the future via The Reason For Hope Society.
The Reason For Hope CD Track Listing :
A light - CRUSH LUTHER
Sadie In The Kitchen - ROSE COUSINS
Up Up & Away - AMOS THE TRANSPARENT
Last Waltz - JENN GRANT
Runaway - DAVID MYLES
Separate Cities - CRISSI COCHRANE
No Matter- THE LOVE MACHINE
Old Faithful - RUTH MINNIKIN
Don't Call It Being Lonely - THE DANGER BEES
I'd Try Anything - ALERT THE MEDIC
I Could Love You More- IN FLIGHT SAFETY
End Of The Road- HOPEFUL MONSTER
Brushed By The Wings Of An Angel - MATT MINGLEWOOD
Good Wife - MARY STEWART
Send Someone For Me- EMMA LEE
When Emma Sings - DORIS MASON
An Extraordinary Ordinary Life - LENNIE GALLANT
July 25th, 2011 marks the official CD Release for "The Reason For Hope", a collection of Eastern Canadian artists in aid of Metastatic Breast Cancer research.
The evening, hosted by The Carleton Restaurant on Argyle Street, will be a night to celebrate with friends as musicians come together in an optimistic way to make a change and raise awareness for this disease. We recommend that... you purchase tickets in advance from The Carleton at 902-422-6335.
Come out and have a drink, peruse the items and say hello to friends.
A silent auction will be held at the venue and will start at 6:30pm. Music starts at 8pm, including performances by Emma Lee Stewart, Ruth Minnikin, David Myles and Mary Stewart as well as other artists featured on the CD. There will also be a special performance by Lennie Gallant. Tickets to the event are $20.00 and we will have CDs for sale at $15.00.
Thank you to our contributing sponsors: The Delta Halifax , Turbine by Lisa Drader Murphy and The Carleton for helping make this night possible.
In May of 2010, New Glasgow resident Emma Lee Stewart learned her cancer had returned for the second time. This time, however, it returned as metastatic breast cancer, seeded in her liver. Over the last year the cancer has spread leaving metastasis in her bones and brain. Upon her first diagnosis with Breast Cancer in 2006, Stewart founded The Reason For Hope Not-For-Profit Society which has donated money to The Canadian Cancer Society, The Lodge That Gives and The Oncology Department at the Aberdeen hospital in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.
Prior to Stewart's diagnosis, she has been actively involved in the music community of Nova Scotia for years as founding chair of The New Glasgow Riverfront Jubilee, a member of the board of The Provincial Music Festival, a vocal teacher, and a board member of The New Glasgow Dragon Boat Festival, to name a few.
In attempt to turn a negative situation into a positive one, her daughter, Mary Stewart, got the idea of spreading the message through music. During the year of 2010, Mary reached out to friends of the Stewart family to make this project possible. We here at Codapop Studios (www.codapop.com) have worked on this project with Mary, allowing use of our Halifax Studio to record select tracks from Emma Lee Stewart, Doris Mason, Mary Stewart and The Danger Bees for this project.
All of the musicians on this CD are longtime friends of the Stewart family and have kindly donated their songs to help spread awareness for this worthy cause.
The fundraising goal for this project is $15,000.00. Net proceeds will flow to The Breast Cancer Network for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research to make a change for women who find themselves in this situation in the future via The Reason For Hope Society.
The Reason For Hope CD Track Listing :
A light - CRUSH LUTHER
Sadie In The Kitchen - ROSE COUSINS
Up Up & Away - AMOS THE TRANSPARENT
Last Waltz - JENN GRANT
Runaway - DAVID MYLES
Separate Cities - CRISSI COCHRANE
No Matter- THE LOVE MACHINE
Old Faithful - RUTH MINNIKIN
Don't Call It Being Lonely - THE DANGER BEES
I'd Try Anything - ALERT THE MEDIC
I Could Love You More- IN FLIGHT SAFETY
End Of The Road- HOPEFUL MONSTER
Brushed By The Wings Of An Angel - MATT MINGLEWOOD
Good Wife - MARY STEWART
Send Someone For Me- EMMA LEE
When Emma Sings - DORIS MASON
An Extraordinary Ordinary Life - LENNIE GALLANT
Random Thoughts
As I was sending an email to my nephew yesterday, describing the nub of an idea for a story, I realized again what an inspiration Honey was for me. Our early morning walks were a real source; when the world was quiet and we set out in all kinds of weather, blazing our trail through the new day. She's been on my mind a lot recently and I don't know why. I must get to see her.
So then I started wondering now where does my inspiration come from? Certainly not from these two cats that had the run of the house for 10 days. Gosh. Although we had Karen here, twice a day for that entire duration, Puff seems to think that he is indeed the ruler of this place. Boobadee and he do not, in any way, shape or form, get along. But Boobadee is again holding her own, now that her thyroid problems are under control with medication. Puff is a real bully sometimes, but on the other hand, I have to laugh at him. He loves to play and run from end to end of the house, chasing the 3 little toys he has, or a bottle top. Yesterday I found a large marble and let that go to see what happened and indeed, it is now a favourite. The wonderful thing is neither of them any longer come upstairs to wake me up, instead waiting quietly downstairs. That is really nice. Thanks. I slept in this morning.
Lee is coming home today and is traveling with friends to the Metallica concert tomorrow in Halifax. We heard lots of Metallica when Lee was growing up. This is the second time he has seen the band.
The Carlton plans are coming along nicely for the 25th. I will post a separate blog on that, with all the details. A really nice silent auction has been set-up as well as Lennie Gallant, David Myles, Rose Cousins, Ruth Minikin and others for the songwriters circle. I'll probably post a facebook event for it as well.
Drug company funding has been approved. Friday. New chemo will start.
Going to try and gather up the cat hair and dust today. My next project is to declutter my little cottage on Temperance Street. I will rest as needed. I'm into The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest and am putting together a short set for Thursday morning (20 minutes or so) at the Carmichael Stewart House Museum. Anna and Holly are hosting music and other activities on the front porch each Thursday this summer! Wonderful ideas, a hop, skip and jump from my front door.
I haven't figured out how to edit after posting. Sorry. Forgive me.
Aileen dropped off some more granola last night. Thanks Aileen!
Alright. Find something wonderful to occupy your mind for a while today. Something you love and find complete and utter joy in. After you're finished, you can either share it with those you love, or keep it to yourself. Either way it's a present - it's a treasure.
Peace to you all,
Emma Lee
So then I started wondering now where does my inspiration come from? Certainly not from these two cats that had the run of the house for 10 days. Gosh. Although we had Karen here, twice a day for that entire duration, Puff seems to think that he is indeed the ruler of this place. Boobadee and he do not, in any way, shape or form, get along. But Boobadee is again holding her own, now that her thyroid problems are under control with medication. Puff is a real bully sometimes, but on the other hand, I have to laugh at him. He loves to play and run from end to end of the house, chasing the 3 little toys he has, or a bottle top. Yesterday I found a large marble and let that go to see what happened and indeed, it is now a favourite. The wonderful thing is neither of them any longer come upstairs to wake me up, instead waiting quietly downstairs. That is really nice. Thanks. I slept in this morning.
Lee is coming home today and is traveling with friends to the Metallica concert tomorrow in Halifax. We heard lots of Metallica when Lee was growing up. This is the second time he has seen the band.
The Carlton plans are coming along nicely for the 25th. I will post a separate blog on that, with all the details. A really nice silent auction has been set-up as well as Lennie Gallant, David Myles, Rose Cousins, Ruth Minikin and others for the songwriters circle. I'll probably post a facebook event for it as well.
Drug company funding has been approved. Friday. New chemo will start.
Going to try and gather up the cat hair and dust today. My next project is to declutter my little cottage on Temperance Street. I will rest as needed. I'm into The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest and am putting together a short set for Thursday morning (20 minutes or so) at the Carmichael Stewart House Museum. Anna and Holly are hosting music and other activities on the front porch each Thursday this summer! Wonderful ideas, a hop, skip and jump from my front door.
I haven't figured out how to edit after posting. Sorry. Forgive me.
Aileen dropped off some more granola last night. Thanks Aileen!
Alright. Find something wonderful to occupy your mind for a while today. Something you love and find complete and utter joy in. After you're finished, you can either share it with those you love, or keep it to yourself. Either way it's a present - it's a treasure.
Peace to you all,
Emma Lee
Monday, July 11, 2011
Mama's Fish Houe, Paua, Maui, Hawaii
The above pics were taken on Sunday, July 3rd, 2011. Mama's Fish House came highly recommended to us by David and Joan and I think I mentioned that before. My friend Janet also urged me to make sure Mama's was one place we didn't miss while in Maui, and so we didn't.
There was a great deal of confusion between the two of us about how to get there as Mama's is "on the road to Hana", which either provokes fear and dread, or awe and wonder, and for some reason we thought Mama's was on the other side of Hana. Many, many people urged us not to try to do the two on the same day. In any event, we were finally given a really good map by a time share salesperson (ha!) which alleviated all of our confusion. Poor fellow - he probably hasn't heard my story before! How to clear a room. In any event, we also found a listing for Mama's which noted it as the best restaurant in the world. So . . . we were really looking forward.
We had reservations for 11:30 a.m. but we set off early anyway. It was another amazingly beautiful day. As it was the July long weekend, there were lots of families camping at bountiful beaches along the way. All beaches in Hawaii are public. We were early, and so did drive a goodly enough portion of the "road to Hana" before stopping to admire some surfers and then turn around to go back to Mama's.
What an experience. A true Maui experience. The friendliness of the staff. The freshness and quality of the food. The atmosphere of the restaurant. It was all simply amazing. Thanks David and Joan! It certainly lived up to everything we had heard about Mama's Fish House. It was the best meal I have ever enjoyed and I mean enjoyed. There was just something different about how the people and the food were honored.
The bags have arrived at 170 Temperance Street!
I'm hoping that tomorrow when I wake up I'll be feeling better. CT scan today will be reviewed with me on Thursday. If drug company approval comes through, new chemo to start on Friday. Side effects described are eerily similar to how I am currently feeling.
I keep thinking of quality of life. I had some great quality of life in Maui! Thank you everyone for making that possible. I pray you are truly enjoying and honoring your quality of life. I pray for that.
Peace today and always,
Emma Lee
Friday, July 8, 2011
Pictou Lobster Carnival
The title has absolutely nothing to do with this post. But I fondly remember so many carnivals. I hope Angie has great success with her challenges this weekend. What a task! My best to all of the volunteers working so hard to make this event a success. What would we do without volunteers?
Well, our bags still haven't surfaced. I don't think I need say anything further on that end. I'm laying low as I'm not feeling at all well.
I can say that I can't believe how my little garden has grown. Yay. Harvested lettuce and had a beautiful fresh salad last night. I'll be planting more.
I'm going to post a couple of shots from our trip! The Mahana was our home away from home. The spinner dolphins were a highlight - snorkeling with the spinner dolphins! There were hundreds of them. It was amazing.
More later.
Peace to you all today.
Emma Lee
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Friday, July 1, 2011
Happy Canada Day!
The sound of the surf and the trade winds never stop and I'm not complaining. Our room is feet from the Pacific Ocean as you have seen from the shots I've posted. The first night in, I awoke with a start and I thought that the glass lanai door was open, and that we were sleeping with just the screen door closed. That thought so comforted me I immediately fell back to sleep. When I got up, I realized that both doors were closed. That is how beautiful the sound of the surf and trade winds are. It is absolutely amazing.
Ive been longing for a place like this.
It may be July 1st as I type and if so, Happy Canada Day. We have met a family of Stewarts from Edmonton and in fact enjoyed a Luau with them the other night.
Do you know how early people get up here? The world starts very early in Maui. Another reason I really like this place. I like to start early too, even without Honey by my side, waking up with the birds.
I have missed writing my blogs though. Writing has become a life line for me. We aren't able to connect with the internet in our room and so to the lobby I must go. Early, very early. Another sight to see! I am facing the most incredible mountain range - what a variety of topography, and colors, and smells, and sounds. If I had grandchildren, I would make sure they could swim like dolphins and when I could afford it, take them to Hawaii. The children here are having a ball snorkeling and playing in the ocean. We are too! Still children at heart. My favorite is just finding a great place to sit and being rocked by the waves, which are not surfable in the area that I have found. It is gentle and allows Jim to have great swims and me to swim, rest, be rocked and rest and swim. Lots of sunscreen, don't worry.
We're going to enjoy a sunset cruise this evening. That is the extent of my action/adventure in Hawaii - that and swimming. I've also been able to sleep. Hallelujah! Cause I am one tired puppy!
I have to mention how black the night gets, soon after sunset. It is amazing. And then - THE STARS! Star gazers would love these constellations. I have never seen the night sky look like this and can't remember when I have actually turned my gaze upwards to look at the stars - maybe last summer? Crazy I know. But the stars here are absolutely amazing. I have tried to catch it with my camera, but it simply doesn't work well enough.
Peace to you all. Enjoy your long weekend.
Emma Lee
Ive been longing for a place like this.
It may be July 1st as I type and if so, Happy Canada Day. We have met a family of Stewarts from Edmonton and in fact enjoyed a Luau with them the other night.
Do you know how early people get up here? The world starts very early in Maui. Another reason I really like this place. I like to start early too, even without Honey by my side, waking up with the birds.
I have missed writing my blogs though. Writing has become a life line for me. We aren't able to connect with the internet in our room and so to the lobby I must go. Early, very early. Another sight to see! I am facing the most incredible mountain range - what a variety of topography, and colors, and smells, and sounds. If I had grandchildren, I would make sure they could swim like dolphins and when I could afford it, take them to Hawaii. The children here are having a ball snorkeling and playing in the ocean. We are too! Still children at heart. My favorite is just finding a great place to sit and being rocked by the waves, which are not surfable in the area that I have found. It is gentle and allows Jim to have great swims and me to swim, rest, be rocked and rest and swim. Lots of sunscreen, don't worry.
We're going to enjoy a sunset cruise this evening. That is the extent of my action/adventure in Hawaii - that and swimming. I've also been able to sleep. Hallelujah! Cause I am one tired puppy!
I have to mention how black the night gets, soon after sunset. It is amazing. And then - THE STARS! Star gazers would love these constellations. I have never seen the night sky look like this and can't remember when I have actually turned my gaze upwards to look at the stars - maybe last summer? Crazy I know. But the stars here are absolutely amazing. I have tried to catch it with my camera, but it simply doesn't work well enough.
Peace to you all. Enjoy your long weekend.
Emma Lee
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