Surgery. Well, it was two weeks ago.  I haven’t really blogged much about it.  The highlights are pretty much that Dr. Awesome aced her job and cut all of the cancer that was left after chemo. So now, I am NED and cancer-free! Everything else kind of pales in comparison, so it seems insignificant to blather about pain, side effects, drains, body image, and...

I must say, I definitely chose the right place to rest up and heal.  My parents are doting on me: I get meals on trays, pleasant conversation, and whatever I need, whenever I need it.  I even feel (a teeny little bit) guilty for indulging in their care, but I also know that they are delighted to have me “home” for a time, even under these circumstances....

I am wearing my hospital gown and I am snuggled under the first of what is sure to be many warm blankets today. Before we left the house I kissed my girls while they slept. Miraculously, I managed not to cry (though I am tearing up now as I type this.) Brad and I held hands on the way to the hospital. I am blessed. I am ready: “I will lie down and sleep in...

When we were on vacation, we sat on the balcony and watched a storm roll in from the ocean.  If you’ve never done this, I highly recommend it.  It is a majestic experience. When the storm hit, we scurried around.  We brought dry things inside and moved the furniture away from the rain.  We prepared for the storm, just as we are now preparing for my surgery and...

The other day, my friend Joy was walking behind her daughter and my Maren.  The girls were chattering away, as five-year-olds do.  Joy tuned in to hear this snippet of their conversation; it’s Maren describing to her friend what the plan is for the coming week(s): Maren, “My mom is going to the hospital to have surgery.”  Gesturing to her chest,...