Monday, November 21, 2011

Time to take things a bit more seriously! It's Thanksgiving week and this is the time of the year when we should all reflect and give thought of the things we are most thankful for. No, I'm not talking about being thankful for a great vacation or a new car. These are "things"! I'm talking about being grateful for events in our lives that have happened over the year that we cannot put a price on. So I've come up with what I am most grateful over the last 12 months.

1. Mark, my husband who is my rock. He is always there by my side during tests and chemo even if it means getting up at 5am to get to the hospital for a CAT or PET scan. He holds my hand when the IV's are being put in or I'm given an injection. He has picked up what I can't do anymore due to fatigue such as laundry, dishes, etc. He has NEVER once in the 1.5 years complained about doing these extra chores.

2. My family who is always there to give me support when I need it most. Whether it's a phone call, card or visit they are always there when I need them.

3. My friends who have stuck with me all this time. Your emails, thoughts and prayers lift my spirit. I have a memory box filled with your cards that I go through when feeling down. How can I not keep going with all your well wishes.

4. My "work family" at Designcraft. You guys are the best and I love you all. You keep me focused and don't let me dwell on my minor aches and pains. You're always there to keep me going and when things are bad and I have trouble walking, opening packages, etc you guys are always there to help me. I couldn't do it without you!

5. The doctors, nurses and staff at U of C Medical Center. I know I have given you a lot of grief over the past 1.5 years but you always come back with a smile and comforting words. I don't know how you do it putting up with all of chemo patients but you all are special and have a gift of caring. You all are the best and I appreciate all you do.

6. The people I come across in my day to day life. In stores, restaurants, at the gas station, etc. Even when I looked terrible being bald, bloated from steroids, etc you were kind and looked past the outside and saw what was inside my heart.

7. Life in general. I take each day as its last and try to make the most of it. I try to not take anything for granted. What a gift it is to wake up each morning. Life is precious and we should all live our lives to its fullest.

8. I'm thankful to all of you who read my blog. This is one way I have to relieve a lot of stress of side effects, chemo days, tests, etc. I appreciate you reading my words. I hope some day what I have related about this experience will help some one in some small way.

9. Ok - I have to be a little less serious for a moment and say I'm thankful for Thanksgiving dinner! I missed lasts years dinner due to being in the hospital and not being able to eat. Anyone who knows me knows I love turkey, dressing and everything that goes with it. So this year I'm thankful I'll be able to enjoy dinner with family and friends.

So I challenge you all to reflect this week and come up with things you are most thankful for.

Until next time - Keep Dancin'!