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whispering restrained

there is no susurrus here

overpowering

words boisterous no longer

frightened pursed lips quieted

–

whistles blow

susurrus silenced

punished voice

***

Reena’s Xploration Challenge #416

World Cancer Day reminds us that the disease is more present than ever. All of us can be active in preventing this disease – though sometimes it comes despite our best efforts. There are better ways to unite than in a shared disease! I survived bladder cancer I had 11 years ago. Here are the symptoms:

The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine (hematuria), which may appear pink, red, or rust-colored, or be detected only via microscope. Other frequent signs include increased frequency, urgency, or burning during urination. These symptoms often mimic infections, so they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. 

Key Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

• Hematuria (Blood in Urine): The most common sign, often painless and intermittent.
• Urinary Changes: Increased frequency, urgent need to urinate, or a feeling of needing to urinate immediately even when the bladder is not full.
• Painful Urination: Burning or pain during urination.
• Voiding Difficulties: A weak or interrupted urine stream.
• Pain: Pelvic, lower back, or abdominal pain. 

Advanced Stage Symptoms
If the cancer has spread, other symptoms might appear: 

• Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.
• Pain in the lower back, pelvis, or bones.
• Swelling in the feet or legs.
• Ongoing fatigue. 

When to See a Doctor
Any blood in the urine should be checked, as it is not normal. While these symptoms can be caused by other, non-cancerous conditions like infections, stones, or an enlarged prostate, it is important to rule out cancer. 

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https://rugby843.blog

The lady opened the box and retrieved a ruby hued dress hand sewn by her maid, Jesse. Amanda found the ball gown in perfect shape, but she heard trouble brewing in the banquet hall. Apparently the band had no drummer and in this instance, no music would be played. Things were collapsing around her but she tried to feel confident in her red dress. Two butlers came to her side and one said he had experience with a drum and if she desired, he could fill in the band’s group. Problem solved Amanda thought, but now she had to check on the food. She was thankful to find everything in order on that front. Amanda sighed with relief and signaled the band to start to play.

***

MLMM Monday Wordle #462

any soap might do

scrubbing the disappointments

eliminating

the leftover sorrows stains

polish off new ideas

–

memories hover

wipe away the tear stained cheeks

think positively

brush off happiness concepts

clear out the old prepare new

***

#TankaTuesday Poetry Challenge No. 50, To Cleanse, 02/03/26

Home

Quiet surround

Unwanted solitude

This retired existing life

Lonesome

***

Cinquain Poetry Prompt 38: HOME is your inspiration.

My one line today is smile and looking at my great grandson, how can you not SMILE?❤️

One-Liner Wednesday – I hates the bots

Grandfather knew that feeding the birds, no matter what kind, demonstrated an act of kindness. He had taught his daughter that principle and now as a mother, sees her following his example. Every parent tries their best to raise their children with morals and basic ideas of the golden rule, to treat others as yourself. Love thy neighbor, even if it is in animal form. Birds and animals, and other creatures, all have a purpose and should be appreciated. The grandfather had succeeded with this family.

***

Simply 6 Minutes – Welcome to the Challenge: 02/03/2026

Looking at the recipes

Staring at the food

My eyes narrowed as an eagle’s

Spotting prey so good

The cooking finished, baked the wanted treat and I was ready for the feast.

As my feathers started to spread

Knowing my eaglets would be fed

Wings I open huddling over the mouselike treat

Fluttered over the baker’s delicious looking sweet

Swooped it up like a bird in talons sharp

Ignored the cook’s effort hid under a foil tarp

As talons grab a rodent, used my claws at last

Heavily feathered wings flying at their fast

Like a majestic eagle I flew swift back to my nest

The frosted cookie was the taster’s best.

***

Poetics: The Smile in a Simile

Looting leaders along the sidewalk, followers running behind. All trying to gather as much food as they can handle. Some brought wagons, others brought baby carriages to hold any items they could forage. Why shouldn’t they help themselves, after the way they had been treated? Grocery stores had closed their doors for a week and now the angry crowds took revenge. Broken doors and windows strewn the sidewalks were their options as store owners hid in their back rooms.

***

Fandango’s Story Starter #233