...Who knew that could feel so good!
Chemo sucks and I fully support everyone staying clear of cancer so they do not go through it! But today—nine days after my last chemo medicine for the first round, I had a pretty normal day, including a shower, dog walks for my trusty sidekick Speedy-Gone-Doggie (who is not so Speedy after 13 years and is often called Speed-Bump by my sister who thinks that is a more accurate portrayal of his activity level as the dog of the house), and a trip (with the help of friend Ann) to the post office. I ate a grapefruit supplied by friend Toby and even conducted a limited amount of prep work for MStar’s cancer seminars beginning in late January.
I had a friend tell me that her cancer year was one of the best of her life—not because of the horrendous disease and the treatment, but because it taught her important lessons about her life, her priorities and her appreciation for the simple pleasures in life--- like showering yourself... or walking the dog. Maybe this was a lesson I needed to learn—to pay attention to those things in life that are too precious to waste---like a sunrise, the laughter of a child, or the smile of a friend.
Now that I have waxed Hallmark, I want to leave you with the smile of this friend. Several of my friends wrote encouraging messages on paper chain links which was delivered by friend Fran last week. This “Links of Love” was my baby sister Davie’s idea and Marla, as always, made it happen.
Thanks to all of those who facilitated this wonderful chain that I wrapped around myself like a hug and it immediately made me feel better. I plan to beat this cancer and use the chain next fall as a decoration in my sukkah** to remind me of my many blessings.
Thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers, for all the help offered in my behalf—the gift of friendship you give to me. I start awful, terrible, hopeful, blessed chemo again on Monday, the first day to the last of Chanukah—what a gift to give myself this year!
**Sukkahs were used as temporary shelter while in the desert for 40 years after escaping Egyptian bondage and in ancient Israel while gathering last fruits from the fields during harvest time. During the Jewish fall harvest festival of Sukkot (also called Feast of Tabernacles or Booths) we reflect on wandering in the desert, the blessings of the harvest, and mystically connect with the idea that life on earth is temporary, just as a hut is a temporary dwelling ! This always has been my favorite holiday!
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