Finally, I am feeling good these days. With the infection gone and the chemo treatments done, I know I’ll soon be better than my old self. I certainly have a different outlook on everything. God has given me the opportunity to live and to make every day a day of happiness and success. Music and laughter are a huge part of my daily life. Just before I got sick, my oldest granddaughter, Kaylee, asked me to buy a plaque that she really liked. I set it in the closet and forgot all about it until I was putting away some things this morning. I love the words:

Work like you don’t need the money
Love like you have never been hurt
Sing like no one is listening
Dance like no one is watching

I am so thankful for every day. It is great to be back at work and to be doing things around the house a little. I’m looking forward to the day when I can do everything again.

Dr. Deutsch wants to give my body time to heal from the last surgery and from the chemo. I don’t see him again until September 2. At that time we will decide how and when we can start the reconstruction process. We have to go a different route since he took out the tissue expander on the right side. He mentioned getting tissue and muscle from my back – Ouch! I still have fluid retention from the chemo treatments, so we need to see how much actual fat will be left after it gets out of my system.

I will be taking Herceptin treatments every three weeks now. It is going to be great not having to go to doctors every week. Next week will be the first week (since March!) without seeing a doctor!!!

I’m super excited about our adults only girls’ weekend at Lake Oconee in a few weeks. Just a few of us are going over to relax, laugh, and have fun. It will be a much needed break!

I almost forgot to mention the Peanut Congress last month. We had Larry Jones from “Feed the Children” as one of our guest speakers. His program does so much for people in the U.S. and around the world. They are now putting two jars of peanut butter in every box they give out!!! Peanut butter is very nutritious and does not require refrigeration. Mr. Jones and the American Peanut Council surprised all of us there with a visit by one of his big supporters, Shaquille O’Neal (Shaq). He is a very big man!! It was very interesting to hear him talk about his motivation for supporting the program as well as his love for peanut butter. At the end, one lucky person won an autographed jersey from Shaq. And I won!! I was like a kid running and jumping up the aisle to get it. I was so thrilled!!

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support. With family and friends rallying around me, staying positive and motivated is easier. Honestly, words are not adequate to express my thanks for your encouragement and many acts of kindness.