As of April 2, 2012, this blog became the place for documenting our New Adventure called Breast Cancer. Basically it's all about our Cancer ParTay.
As of Oct 2013- our 18 month Survivor mark- the ParTay's pretty much over. Treatments are done, my hair is back and I am healthy & cancer-free!
As of today- I want you to know that the trick to living a happy, healthy and wonderful life in the future is to remember where we've been, what we've learned and how much we've been blessed! That's exactly what I hope you find here.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Surrounded by Love

Wow! Saying that we have been amazed by every one's love and concern is quite an understatement. All of it is a little (OK- a lot) overwhelming in of itself.
First, Katie stopped by this morning. She brought me a gift. She wrote me a letter and included lots of treats. We chatted, laughed and cried together. She said she was laying down trying to get rid of a headache last night when she got my email. She panicked and ran to tell her husband. After he calmed her down, she did some research on Breast cancer survivors. She said the one thing that they all said they needed was a friend. They said- don't be scared- just be there. So she decided she was just gonna come over and be there! She is the sweetest thing ever! I just love her! Here's my cute note. So sweet! {Her hubby wouldn't share the computer so she had to hand write it. LOL I love it even more!}:
Next, I chatted on the phone with a couple people. More laughing, more crying. Great people! We got plans for new PINK clothes and all kinds of new hats! LOL
Then, I went to playgroup. I have to admit, I really wanted to skip it today. But I need to keep in mind that if I don't want to be the "weird girl on the block" then I need to not act like one! I am so glad I went. As soon as I walked in, I got my "1st Cancer hugs". Too funny!  Then it turns out that Julie had news of her own. They are moving to ID at the end of May (WHAT???? I told her that we would all process it and then call her crying tomorrow! LOL ) So we cried and laughed about change & new adventures in general. I loved it! I have the greatest friends here ever! I was so relieved that I can still just be one of the girls.
In the afternoon, my Visiting Teacher stopped by. We talked about a lot of things but also about having faith. She brought by a freezer meal and a little gift. It is perfect! It's one of those picture word plaques that spells FAITH. Underneath it is says, "I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. -Phil 4:13 Very fitting!! Thanks lady!
Another thoughtful thing is that Brett's work is organizing meals to bring to us. Already??? I can't really get my mind around needing all the help that people are offering. It seems so unnecessary as I sit here today. But I am aware that there may come a time (perhaps sooner than I'd like) that it may be needed. Brett has a co-worker that fought breast cancer this last year so they are very mindful of us. We really appreciate them!
Another friend stopped by after the kids got out of school. She quickly said- "I know, I know- just wanted to bring you this!" (meaning that she wanted to respect my space and privacy) She gave me a gift and a hug. Then she cried. She told me she loved me and so did a lot of other people. She said she had a different gift in mind but knew she was directed to this one. She said it's meant for me! Another hug and she was on her way. I was very touched by the gift. There was a card signed by a few of my good friends and a Willow tree figure titled "Surrounded by Love- Abundant Love surrounds you" So beautiful, thoughtful and a bit overwhelming! (I'm using that word a lot lately??? LOL)
Even at Church activities tonight, several people shared their love and concern for us. Everyone wants to be helpful. They are very kind! Brett got quite a few hugs. He thought it was his lucky day! LOL

We really do feel we have been Surrounded by Love. Thanks to everyone for your kind words, thoughts and prayers. (What I mentioned was only a small sample of all the things we've been surrounded by so thanks to all of you) We feel very grateful to have you all in our lives. Thank you! Thank you!

3 comments:

Christine said...

Shay! Thank you for allowing me to read your blog and letting me share in this part of your life. Since you are a great one for finding the positive/humor/choose-to-laugh moments in life, I've decided that you need to get a small notebook (that will fit in your bag) and start making notes for your book. Here's the title... ready?... "Betcha I'm the Only One: Finding the Humor in the Absurdities of Breast Cancer". I'll even get you started... "Betcha I'm the only one who had four men feel my boobs in one day." And... when you're a best selling author and appearing on Oprah and The View, you can thank me by dedicating the book to me. I'll be gracious and accept that.

Seriously, I wish I were closer so I can take your kids when they need to be watched, bring you dinners or just chocolate, and listen to you laugh and even cry when you need to.

Love ya lady!

Christine said...

After your book goes global, you could be a speaker at Time Out for Women. I know it's your secret dream!

Amber said...

I love christine. We would all sit in the audience and say, "we knew her when..." it would be awesome. Thanks so much for sharing this journey with those that love you. I am so glad you are surrounded be some awesome people. Wish I was there.