Thanksgiving Before and After

"Have no fear for what tomorrow may bring. The same loving God who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. God will either shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations." - Francis de Sales.



Today I am filled with gratitude. Most days I am filled with gratitude, but as we approach Thanksgiving this year I am acutely aware of all of my blessings. The words of encouragement above were on a little pocket card that my mother sent to me a few weeks ago. This simple gesture was one of the most supportive things my mother could have done. I'm sure that she doesn't even know it because she always feels that she "should be doing more." I am grateful that my folks are already settled back in Florida until the summer because they really enjoy themselves down there. I thank God for the familiarity of our ongoing conversations via e-mail, the knowledge that I can't stop them from worrying but I don't have to live it with them, and for the hope that when they return I will be much further along the path of healing.

As I rejoin this post, Thanksgiving is already past - time goes by so quickly. We spent a lovely few days with family in the country. It was very relaxing and the food was great. Like a much needed oasis. And then we came back.

I've seen Dr. Kennedy twice - once for my regular follow-up visit, and once for an unscheduled visit to try to figure out why my temperature keeps going up and up and up unless we have a tylenol moment. I've also developed an annoying little cough this cycle...had to have CBC, blood and urine cultures, and a chest x-ray...Trying to stay centered is difficult at times considering all the possibilities. But my "team" is always there to remind me that my body is strong and is helping to heal itself, and that no matter how many wrenches are thrown into the system, that we can deal with them. I thank God every day for the people who are walking with me.

I am waiting to hear from the doctor to see what our game plan will be and if I will be able to get chemo as scheduled on Thursday, December 4th. I want to continue with the regimen of drugs that will give me the very best prognosis, but depending on what she finds, she may want to change or alter the meds...we'll see....

Keep a good thought...I felt like writing a little something but now I really have to take a little nap......the last time I did that I came back and it was after Thanksgiving.....and this post was all a mishmash so I will end here and start a new one when I am more rested.....