Hello Heather, I have some personal experience to share with you.
I had the same chemo as yours: 4 AC followed by 4 Taxol. I also had an ultrasound after AC before Taxol. The worst days after each infusion were the 2nd and 3rd day. The best days were right before the next round of chemo. I would eat more to be ready for the next round of down time.
During these 16 weeks, I went out for walking as long as I had the energy. Otherwise, I did some home exercise. It made me feel better, and was recommended by my oncologist. If I was feeling complete down (days right after infusion), I would forgive myself not doing anything except lying in bed.
I didn't dine out during my chemo as it was during Covid, also because chemo made food taste awful, especially during AC. I started to go to restaurants after my mouth and appetite recovered from chemo. I found steamed food most acceptable during chemo. I couldn't eat any spicy, dry (like cookies) or tangy food. I liked sweets a lot which was unusual of me but I followed my appetite. I didn't eat anything special to help with chemo side effects. My weight did not change during the treatment.
I didn't work during my treatment. I felt it was necessary for me with the dose-dense regimen.
Hope you will have a smooth journey. It's worth the hardship. Stay strong!
Vivian