Yesterday, we were blessed with a meal from someone we hardly know. Today, a friend brought me to Costco and did all the loading and unloading. We've received gift cards from friends for helpful places. One friend sent me a text message asking for an "assignment" so she could be doing something besides praying! (W, I'll get back to you on that one!)
These are all big things to be thankful for. Some little things come to mind as well. I like to buy the organic chicken from Costco. It was on sale, so I bought two packages today. They come in individually wrapped pieces. I could easily open the big bag at the table and carry them to my freezer . . . all while staying in my restriction limit for lifting.
I am feeling well. I have very little pain, which is a big improvement over late November/early December when the pain was so great that I tried taking Vicodin for it (didn't work). The last time I took anything was a couple of ibuprofen back on January 2 or 3 and I don't think I really "needed" it then. It was more of a "just in case" before I went to bed.
I'm sleeping reasonably well. I fully wake up to change positions when I need to, but I am able to fall back asleep fairly easily.
I have two consultations with radiation oncologists this week. One on Thursday and one on Friday. The Thursday appointment is in San Francisco and the Friday one is in Palo Alto. Radiation could begin as early as next week.
Two medications are being prescribed this week. One will ensure that my ovaries have completely stopped working (thus, stopped producing estrogen) and the other will be a bone strengthening drug. Both of these are once a month (or every three week) injections or infusions. Neither of them have the severe side effects of chemotherapy.
"The Lord is near to all who call to him, to all who call on him in truth." Psalm 145:18
God is holding me, quite safely, in his hands, regardless of how this journey turns out. Yes, it is my heartfelt plea that I be given a few more years on this earth, but none of us are guaranteed those years. One day at a time . . . celebrate that day and join in the community around you.
We don't say this enough. Americans either throw around "I love you" with little thought or with little discrimination. I'm one who is hesitant to use the words for fear they would be misunderstood.
What's there to misunderstand?
I LOVE YOU!
Yes, I do. As Bilbo Baggins said, "It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to."
You just never know where community may take you. Go out boldly and share the joy.