Summer 2011

It's been quite a while since I've last posted. A lot of ups & downs in the past few months, but thanks to God & my family & friends, most of them are UP. So grateful for the love around us!

Since my last entry, Melia completed 2nd grade, finished Signature soccer & Spring softball & made the All-Stars for 8U (softball). What a great experience & she had so much fun with her friends. They all improved immensely! I think she was definitely ready for a break from "activities" in general, but somehow we've still managed to remain busy with lots of friends & family-time. She completed Surf Camp a couple wks ago & although she was excited to be there, she wasn't as gung-ho to be in the camp...but she came out of her funk the 2nd half of the week & I am so proud of her.

She's been really lucky to be swimming a lot with her family & friends. And she's been to Splash water park a few times with Sara & more friends. Got to see Rihanna in concert with her friend, Lauren. She was so excited, but what REALLY made her night was seeing Khloe Kardashian up close!

Had BBQs with more friends & cooling off in the pool. The last couple weeks have been warm here in Brea so we've also cooled down at the movies a few times. Tonight we had dinner with our friends Marley, Madison, Sara & Saige & we then went to watch our friends, Lauren, Madison, Kami, Emma & Ryan perform in the Peter Pan musical. They did such an awesome job & Melia just adored Tink! She really wants to be in the next musical.

Well, tomorrow begins the month of August! Can you believe it?! Every weekend is jam-packed with good stuff til she begins school on the 31st. Ughhhhh NOPE not complaining! She'll be in 3rd grade I can't believe it! Oh well...here we gooooo! Hope you're having a wonderful summer!

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Sports Photos of Melia

Spring Softball & Soccer

Her softball team, the Cherry Bombs, has played 6 games thus far & are 5-1. She is having a great time & enjoys her team very much! She started pitching this year & is improving greatly. We would love for you to come see her play if you get a chance. All of her games are in Brea at Tamarack Park with the exception of one at the Brea Sports Park on 3/31. Here's her schedule:

3/24 Thurs at 530p

3/26 Sat at 300p

3/31 Thurs at 530p

4/14 Thurs at 530p

4/16 Sat at 900a

4/21 Thurs at 530p

4/23 Sat at 900a

4/28 Thurs at 530p

4/30 Sat at 1100a

She is also playing AC Brea Signature soccer. They're off to a great start so far, with a record of 1-1. Since softball is her main sport this spring & some of her soccer games conflict, she will only be able to play half of them. It's quite a busy schedule, but I think she'll be fine. It's me who's beat! Her first game played was last Saturday & I think she missed that fast-pace competitiveness more than she thought! It's so exciting to watch her hustle out there! Here is her soccer schedule. If you can make it to support her that would be great!

3/26 Sat at 1030a - Brea Jr High

4/16 Sat at 215p - Brookhaven

5/7 Sat at 900a - Brea Jr High

5/14 Sat at 1200p - Benton Middle School

Miss You Grandpa...

Seven years ago today, I lost my grandpa. I miss him terribly, just as much as the day we lost him...even more. My grandma, the matriarch of our family has remained such a strong role model for us girls & I can only hope to be as amazing as she!

We love you, gramps, always & forever. I know you're watching out for us, but keep a special eye out for Mel when I can't be there with her. XOXOXOX

Update...

Can you believe we're already well into February? Where did the time go? The Packers were victorious at the Superbowl last weekend & we had a great time at the Perry's with all of our friends! Melia's been selling Girl Scouts Cookies for almost 2 wks now & I'm just about ready for them to be gone. Work has been busy, but good. Melia started practicing for Spring softball & will be playing Signature soccer as well. She's a very busy little girl, but is loving every moment of it. And me, well I'm just riding on her coat tail. I am feeling well & doing my best to enjoy every moment. Taking in & being humbled by all of the amazing people & things we've been blessed with. Life is good!

It's actually the HAPPY Anniversary...

This day last year was the date of my 2nd surgery which, as we all know, was the successful one. A lot has happened since that day & I choose to believe it's all good. I will take this time to thank my amazing family & friends for all of your love & support throughout this past year & a half. You all inspire me daily (in one way or another) & I wouldn't have it any other way!

2011 is going to be MY year!...OUR year! Let's do THIS!!!

Happy Holidays! 2010

Such an exciting & relaxing day today. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all of our family & friends! We hope you're enjoying today with the ones you love & those most important to you. Here are some memories of how we spent this month.

Have a safe & Happy New Year! And happy birthday to our friend, Lizzie!

We love you, Melia & Kamy

Because of YOU...

...my heart is full, full of emotion. Words will never be enough.

A year ago today, is a day that I will never forget. Today is the 1st anniversary of the surgery that altered my life as I knew it. Months leading up to it was life-changing, as well, however I had no clue what was in store for me. But instead of drudging up the painful, exhausting memories, I’d like to take this time to honor the positive moments & the amazing people (YOU) that will forever remain dear to me no matter where life takes us.

Because of you, my days are brighter. Because of you, my days are happier. Because of you, I enjoy a hard day at work. Because of you, it’s a little easier to prioritize “life.” Because of you, I will always cherish you & take for granted NO ONE. Because of you, I cherish ME. Because of you, I can see the good in people more easily than the bad. Because of you, I love more intensely & get hurt more easily. Because of you, my happy tears make more appearances (as they flow right now). Because of you, I strive to give more than I’ve received. Because of you, my idea of true love & happiness is much clearer. Because of you, my daughter’s mommy is more whole. Because of you, I rely. Because of you, I trust. Because of you, I FEEL. Because of you, I am humbled. Because of you, my eyes are wide open. Because of you, my heart is full!

To my family, friends, colleagues, medical staff & acquaintances--past, present & future. Whether I've met you once or am lucky enough to spend time with you, you have affected our lives in such an amazing way. Melia & I thank you over & over, again & again! Without you, I could not have made it through that surgery. Even now, a year later, you continue to give to us. The planets have definitely aligned. We are so blessed!

I LOVE YOU!

~ K

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ILAN!

We love you & wish you a great birthday, Ilan!

Stuff We've Been Up To...

It has been quite a while since our last entry & a few things have happened in that time. Several birthdays (Happy Birthday!), bought a new car, endured my 1st Brazilian wax, happy times, sad times, futsal & soccer, spent LOTS of time with friends, bunco circuit, Kabuki Opening, enlightening realizations, bbqs, surf camp, Melia started 2nd grade, my other baby started college, HHs but most importantly, back at work full-time. The dr has allowed me to come back with modifications. I am doing well; however, 10hrs is a long day. I still have to move slowly or I will have dizzy eyeballs. My energy level is not quite all there yet, but close. And my thirst problem, well....I think that will be with me for the rest of my life. With the assistance of medication, I can manage it pretty decently. But think about it, it was a year ago last month that these shenanagans began! My has time flown!

Hope you're all doing well, staying healthy & happy! Here are some captured memories of our happiness & fun! We love you!

Dads & Grads!

WOW! Can't believe it's been 2 months since my last entry. How is everyone? And how are your summer plans coming along?

Melia is winding down her 1st grade school year & it's been busy! Parties, futsal, parties, swimming, parties, Cougar Carnival, more swimming & more parties...I can't complain. Although it gets a bit tiring, it's been fun. Her last day is on Wednesday & now the tricky part...what to do with her for summer! She has clearly expressed her non-desire to attend the school summer day camp, but with my long hrs at work, it's the most efficient & inexpensive route [BIG sigh!]. Thanks to all our wonderful friends for always helping me out! I am forever appreciative!

My neurosurgeon has bumped up my work hours from 4 to 6 a day now & things are going well. I think once Melia's schedule slows down a little, I won't be so tired. But I am still so glad to be back to work.

This Wednesday is also my nephew Kyle's high school graduation. He will be graduating from Oxford Academy & I can't be more proud! We would also like to congratulate my nieces, Gabi & Amalia, in Arizona. They, too, are high school graduates! Great job, ladies! We love you!

Just in case I don't make it back here for another entry, we wish all you dads a Very Happy Father's Day!!!

Mahalo Nui Loa...from the bottom of my heart!

If you haven't heard, I am now back to work part-time. Today begins the 3rd week of my return & I'm so happy to be back! My co-peeps are the best! They have welcomed me back with 'open arms' and continue to support me while respecting my space down on Level 2. But get this! My colleagues have donated HUNDREDS upon HUNDREDS of hours of their personal vacation time allowing me to continue my recovery without having to worry about whether or not I'd receive a paycheck. And even as I write this now, I can't help but get ridiculously emotional. It's just so unbelievable...I love you all. I told you I had the best co-peeps! I thank each one of you from the bottom of my heart for your selfless generosity & support.

As for my current status, I am doing well. The only thing that continues to bother me are my eyes and my thirst. Looking at a monitor for about 20 min at a time is just about all I can take right now. I get dizzy if I get too crazy on the computer so I make sure to keep it to a minimum. That would be why you haven't seen too many entries here. Also, I haven't had any migraines since the 2nd surgery (Yay!) Just a couple minor headaches. The thirst problem, I've been told by my endo, could possibly remain for the rest of my life. A pain in the butt, but a small price to pay for what I've been through. I've learned to actually listen to my body these days and rest like I should & I thank God every day.

It's been quite a journey thus far. And if there's anything that I've learned in the past 6 months, it's true love, true friendship and serious appreciation. There are so many people that have given so much to my family, Melia & I...school friends, sport friends, new friends, old friends, family. There is not a day that goes by that I wonder, "how can I possibly thank each and everyone of you for all you have done for us?" Thank you, thank you, thank you! BIG hugs & kisses!

~ Kamy & Melia

Our Condolences...

My Uncle Richard & my dad in Hawai'i

Last month, my uncle went to be with the Lord. His services were yesterday & today in Mililani. I am so grateful that my dad got to spend time with him last year...also with my cousins & Aunty Crystal. Family is everything. Aren't they so handsome? We love you, uncle, and know that you are at peace.

My good friends father also took his journey to be with the Lord last week & we are relieved that he is now pain-free. Our condolences to the Maeda/Miyatake families.

We pray for peace & love for these families and hope that you know that we are here for you always. We love you!

~ Kamy & Melia

Post-op appts completed...

My dr appt on Mon with my neurosurgeon was the final post-op of 3. Phew! And he says I'm coming along just fine. Nasal area is still tender, however he is graduating me to the nasal spray form of the DDAVP, which is the medication that is regulating my thirst. Yes, I still have the thirst issue (which drives me NUTS) & the endocrinologist says it's most likely that I'll have it for the rest of my life. Small price to pay considering everything else that I have endured. I still need to take it easy since I'm still getting dizzy & tired easily. So he's ordered me another MRI at the beginning of March & if everything looks good, I can go back to work part-time! Woohooooo! I'm so excited about that. Well, there you have it...I'm on the back 9 of recovery. What a journey! A journey that I continue to travel successfully with the amazing support of my family & friends. Huge love & thanks to you all!

First Post-Op Appointment

So today I saw the ENT to take the packing out of my schnauzzzz & boy was THAT a titillating experience! It's VERY tender up there & at times the pain has brought me to tears, but this doc is amazing & quick. The packing was out in no time & now I can enjoy the delicious aromas and the beautiful smell of FOOD!!! Here's me 3 days post-surgery...goajus I know!

I am 9 days out & doing well. I have 2 more post-op appts with 2 more specialists and then I should be good for a few weeks. The majority of my issues are with me doing more than I really should be. I realize I do have to take it easy. Although my vision is so much better this time around,

I'm finding that it's still taking me a while to focus. Which in turn causes me to get dizzy, then nauseous, then.... ugghhh! No swelling except a little in my nose area. And although headaches are pretty much daily, they're NOTHING like the headaches & migraines I had before. Here's me today! Woohooooo!!!

Again, I want to take this opportunity to thank each & every one of you for all your love & support throughout this journey and although it's not quite over yet, you have managed to ease our hearts & minds on so many levels allowing for proper recovery. I'm definitely looking forward to going back to work! ....and that's not a lie! ~ Melia & Kamy

New Surgery Date FINALLY Scheduled

Hey all. The time has finally come...the long-awaited date of my next surgery. It will be on Mon, Jan 11. Yes, the Mon in 2 days. Yikes!!! Yes, of course, I do have some reservations, but mostly positive vibes going into this 2nd one. This past week was very exhausting for me. Several Dr appt's , CAT scan, pre-ops & getting stuck with several needles. Everyone, including myself, is hopeful it will go much smoother this time around. We somewhat know what we're dealing with now & it should go well. This surgery, my neurosurgeon has invited a nose specialist to partake in the festivities. Basically, he will be the one going thru the nose, breaking thru the septums & sinuses up to the tumor & that's when the neurosurgeon will take over from there, removing the tumor. Both of my brothers will be there this time & to me, THAT makes all the difference in the world. Ryan flies in tonite & Jeri & Chuck are driving in from AZ as we speak (or as I type). I know that my family & friends are again 100% behind me & with me every step of the way. That's what got me thru this last time & that's what's gonna get me thru it this time.

Last night, my Uncle Jimmy & Aunty Debbie stopped by to visit me & surprise me! My uncle is an artist & I've been giving him a hard time for years as to why everyone else possesses some form of his art, but I don't. Well, he surprised me with 2 beautiful watercolor paintings. One of me doing the hula & my cousin's wedding. And the other of a gorgeous tropical flower. I am so touched. They are so beautiful & I am so thankful. Especially since they spent 1/2 knocking on various doors to find me. Thank you uncle & aunty. I love you! And tonight, my family's gathering at my grandma's house & I'm so excited to spend time with everyone before the big day. It's gonna be a great weekend!

Happy Birthday, Kyle!

Hugs & kisses go out to my nephew, Kyle Kauanoe, who turns 18 today! Ugghhhhh! Can THAT be right? OMG! That's ridiculous! That's him in the middle. This was taken towards the end of our trip to Hawai'i back in July '09. Gary decided to take the kids on a banana boat ride (as you can see). They had a blast! Especially the little ones!

Here's Kyle & I at Big Bear back when he was 3 yrs old. Ain't he a cutie?! Love you baby! Hope you have a GREAT day today!

~ Me Ke Aloha, Melia & Aunty Kamy

Mele Kalikimaka to our Family & Friends! Happy Birthday to our Friend, Lizzie!

Christmas 2009 is coming to an end. Melia & I spent last Saturday night with the Okabe family at Papa & Nana's house. Of course, it was great fun with lots of making fun! Games, good food & family...what more can you ask for? Thank you, Nana & Papa, for welcoming us as part of the family...we love you ridiculously! Today, we had a wonderful day with my mom & Anna. My dad came by for a visit, too. We opened gifts, had a great breakfast, went to the movies, enjoyed prime rib & watched the victorious Chargers. No, not a fan, but happy for my family & friends who are. We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!

I am still awaiting a phone call from the neurosurgeon to schedule the next surgery. It's nerve-wrecking, really. I'm anxious to get it over with & at the same time, dreading having to go thru the same process. Ugghhhhh! I'm actually hoping for the week after the New Yr. Melia being occupied in school for most of her days would be the ideal situation. We shall see & I will keep you updated.

Our dear friend, Lizzie, is celebrating a birthday today & we want to wish her a FABULOUS day! She is pregnant with her first child (boy) & is looking as beautiful as ever! Happy Birthday, Liz! We love you!

Happy Birthday, Jeri & Kyland!

Today is my cousin, Jeri's, birthday & her son, Kyland's, too. We love you both & hope you have a FANTASTIC day!