Day 52 - Finding Hope through Faith- April 30th

Yesterday I mentioned that so many people seem to be going through health and other struggles at this time.  I don't know if the number of people affected is really increasing, or maybe we're just finding out through higher technology, and advanced sciences what people have and could have.  Trials and Adversity is not something that has popped up in the last decade. It is something that came with the fall of Adam, but when those trials seem to prolong their stay on our doorstep, sometimes it seems awfully hard to hold on.  

We all know that there needs be opposition in all things.  We know that we are refined into the people that we can become through trials.  Many of the true blessings we experience in this life actually come in the form of adversity.  Knowing all that, still there are times when we can become so overwhelmed that we can feel defeated and hopeless. As I contemplated the woes that affect so many, I remembered this touching video from Elder Holland. I am hoping that if there are any that have felt this way, that watching or re-watching this video might uplift and heal their path when the journey gets tough.

Elder Holland - Good Things To Come

Day 51 - Finding Familiar Stories - April 29th

I was able to attend a wedding and a wedding shower today, and saw many of my long time friends and acquaintances that I haven't seen for a for quite a while.  What a joyful time we had! 

As we talked and caught up with each others lives, it was very interesting to hear so many of those that I spoke with were either dealing personally with significant health issues, or their loved ones were. It seems as if there is a major growing number of diseases affecting someone in every family, and many of those illness's are puzzling our doctors with no cure yet found. Even though it's very concerning to hear of these trials affecting so many of those I care about, I thought, how wonderful it is that we can all meet together, and still have joy and happiness in our friendship and love.  That we can celebrate the good that happens in others lives, and for a while forget those trials in our own!  Isn't it wonderful that we are not alone in this world nor do our lives go unnoticed by God and His Son.  We can find reasons to rejoice, both in this life and in our lives to come!

Day 50 - Halfway Point - April 28th

As the days get closer to my age, it seems like the time is passing even more quickly. Not that I am 50, but what's a couple of years (or quite a few more) at this point in my life! Looking back at some of my original posts, they are becoming distant memories. For some that is good, for others, I am quite happy to leave them in the past. None the less I am forever grateful for the love I felt from so many during this journey.

Days once spent at the Huntsman are now becoming days spent with family, friends and catching up on shopping. Just don't tell Robert I have traded my naps for trips to the store. 

I feel so blessed that I have not faced any infections or sickness during this 50 days. I know that I can blame my wonderful caretaker for keeping such good care of me for that! My life has changed drastically since those first weeks up at the patient care facility, and even since those first few weeks at home. Being able to get out and be with those I care for so much, makes all the difference in the world!  

For those going through these same circumstances, I still need to relate, at this point, even though things have improved drastically, at 50 days in, I'm still not at 100%. There are days, that when overdone, can bring pretty uncomfortable nights. Even days that aren't overdone, usually bring some pain in the evening (but I am sure those 50 + years contribute to that!)  There are also still days that call for a good old cat nap to make it through.  (not complaining about that, by the way)

I never dreamed this time would go so fast, but it does, as we all know. Both the good and the bad, create the memories that are woven into the stories of our lives. It's those stories that can be passed on from generation to generation, either to inspire for the better or for the worse.  We however, get to choose the fabric of our stories!

Day 49 - Do the Right Thing to Do! - April 27th

On the way home from my strength training class today, I heardthis news story. It is definitely worth sharing, everywhere with everyone!  The entire scene was captured on a home security camera as it unfolded.  Seems like two young brothers found some money in the front of this house, and I guess they are debating on what to do with it. 

Then the older brother, asks his younger brother, "Do you kinda want to keep it?"  Or would you - would you,  Do you want to do the right thing to do? Or keep it? 

Without hesitation the younger brother responds in the happiest voice,  "Do the right thing to do!"

The Older brother then says as they knock on the door,  "It's always best to ask someone."  

Hooray for those kids!  Hooray for those parents! Hooray this little video went viral!

In a world where we need security camera's to protect our homes and our safety, isn't it great it captured a moment like this!

And isn't wonderful we still have heroes  that "Do the right thing to do!!!!"

I'm so glad that this seems to be the theme of all those I've come in contact with at the Huntsman. They all seem committed to doing the right thing, and in many cases the better thing.  Today I called Dr. Sborov, my cancer doctor with a question about my daughter, he listened carefully, even though I know his schedule is jam packed from before dawn till evening.  He gave his advise and actually some solutions that were much needed.

Did he need to spend his time, with me this day, probably not.  My questions today had nothing to do with treating my cancer, but this incredible doctor, took all the time needed to respectfully resolve concerns that were on my mind.  I'm so glad that even some very important, busy people make their life about doing the right thing to do,  and yes, he's my hero too!

Day 48 - A Little 'Peace' of Heaven - April 26th

I was able to experience another beautiful milestone today. This is the first time I have been able to go back to the temple since my stem cell transplant, and oh what a joyful experience it was! 

Certainly there is no place on this earth, where you can feel closer to heaven than in the temple. There is a primary song that explains; it is a place of love and beauty, a place to feel the Holy Spirit, a place to listen and to pray.  It's a place where covenants are made between God and man, and it's a place where families can be sealed together forever. But even more, it's a place of peace, that transcends this earthly chaos and chatter.  

Day 47 - More Acts of Kindness! - April 25th

Again, my heart's been touched with more kindness from incredible people.  Last night my daughter called and said she had something for me that a friend of hers had made.  We met today and she gave me an amazing wood flower arrangement. It was so beautiful!  I thought that my daughter had ordered it, but she assured me that her friend had made it for me totally out of the goodness of her heart. What another incredible lesson.  It is so humbling to me, that there are those out there so willing to share of their time, talents and assets with people that they don't even know personally.  Now I know that there must be incredible love between my daughters and their friends, but to be a recipient of that love totally overwhelms me.  Such people are true examples of Christ-like love as are all of you who have been so very, very sweet to me.

I hope that these kind lessons will multiply, as I hope to be able to pay back and pay it forward, like has been done for me!

Day 46- Fun with Grandpa - April 24th

This video is also on facebook, I just love how my multi-talented caregiver not only takes time out of his day to keep me safe, but he also has a way with the dog and grandkids too!

Day 45 - Another Sunday Feast - April 23rd

I am again humbled and grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints! It's very hard to comprehend how beautiful it's teachings are, and how much I glean every Sunday from being there. Each message that I hear makes me want to be more like my Savior, more loving to my fellowmen and more dedicated to my family! How could a church that teaches these kind of principles be false? I know that it is true, with all my heart! Even though my days are full of short comings, mistakes and sins, I know that my Savior loves me and paid the price so that I have a chance to be forgiven and the power to overcome those struggles that keep me from being the person He knows I can become.  

I also know, that the closer we come to Christ, the more we will want to treat others as He did. I was talking to another daughter the other day, and we were discussing the unfortunate happening on the United Airlines flight that ended up being overbooked at the last minute. I am sure that so many of us were horrified as we watched that 69 year old man being drug off the plane.  Without condemning either side, my daughter simply said, "At that point, (speaking of when they physically started to force the man from the plane) why didn't any one on that plane offer their seat, so the man would not have had to have gone through that." she then added, " I couldn't have just sat there, I would have just told them to take my seat to stop all the craziness!"

Her comment actually made me really think, if I were there, would I have watched in horror as they dragged him from the plane or would I have been compassionate enough to have stepped in without judgement?  I know there are many sides to this situation, and wrongs on both sides, but I was touched by her care for this man, that she'd be willing to give of her comfort to save him from having to go through what he did.  I certainly know what our Savior would have done.  I am so thankful this daughter helped me to remember how it important it is to live the life that exemplifies the person I profess to be.  I am also grateful for a church that centers it's teachings around our Savior Jesus Christ, His Atonement, and His and our Heavenly Father's love and plan for us.  

Day 44 - Each day a little closer - April 22nd

How wonderful it is to say, each day brings us a little closer to the way life was before this journey began.  Today brought shopping, (my visa is still in prime condition), unloading, then shopping again!(while Robert weed trimmed) Later I was able to attend a swimming meet for a couple of incredible granddaughters, (while Robert mowed) then we were off to a wedding reception! After that we drove to the car wash and finished the evening with a stop at the local super market.  On the way home Robert mentioned how sore he was from working so hard,  I could totally relate, it was really hard carrying that purse around all day.  Luckily, Visa cards do not weigh much!

Day 43 - Another Milestone - April 21st

I'm not quite sure what it means about your lifestyle when most of your milestones have to do with food, but we made another one tonight! Robert finally relented and let me order an Arby's Beef and Cheddar.(After much persuasion, begging, crying and almost adult tantrum).

He has been so diligent to make sure everything we eat can pass the low microbial diet standard.  I on the other hand am just going by my hankerings, and a Beef and Cheddar has been on my list for several weeks. I have to say, it certainly did not disappoint!

Before I go recommending this for any other stem cell candidates on day 42, I do need to say, my care taker made sure that the meat, the bun, the cheese and sauce were all ordered separately. Then each was heated to a substantial "safe" temperature in our microwave then assembled for consumption!

I'm such a lucky girl, aren't I! I like these milestones, Umm, Good!

Not To Be Left Alone - We did Have Curly Fries Too!

Day 42 - Stepping It Up, Or Stepping Out  - April 20th

I mentioned before, I had enrolled in the Huntsman's Power Program to try to get a little strength and energy back.  I go twice a week and get my very own trainer to guide me through the exercises.  Things have been going fine as I have been learning how to do each move correctly.  I have been slow enough that it takes me about an hour to accomplish one set of each move. I have been totally happy with my pace and have thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

Enter today; for some unknown reason, (and not per my request) my nice (I'm thinking that term over) trainer thought I should step it up a notch.  He told me that today we would start doing 2 sets of each exercise! Now I'm all for getting a quality workout but this was definitely seeming more like work, than a fun time.  He was so kind and he persevered every moment with me (making it impossible for me to step out the door, and head for my car). 

Somehow the hour passed quickly, and somehow I survived! It actually wasn't that bad, in fact, I had that good old endorphin rush as I drove my car home.  Now that I'm home, and have had time to think about and feel the real rewards of that great workout;
😈😈😈 I am definitely figuring out how to distract my trainer next time, so I can step out to rest in the car--- (not really😇)

Day 41- Pretty as a Picture - April 19th

It was an exciting day yesterday to find the UPS man had delivered a package to my porch!  There inside the plain brown box lay a few treasures just waiting for me to unleash! Carefully I cut the box tape as to not hurt the contents inside, quickly I opened the box to behold the cutest little face masks there ever were! Three of them I ordered on line! No longer was I destined to wear the same mask with every outfit! I now had a choice, so happy dance day again!  Never knew face masks could be so exciting!

Just don't tell Robert, I bought three little hats to match from the wig store! 

Day 40 - Blessings from Heaven - April 18th

I just want to thank my Heavenly Father for His tender mercies again!  A few weeks ago one of my daughters called me clearly shaken as she told me everything was fine.  I could tell by her voice that everything wasn't fine.  Apparently she had been traveling down SR 201 with her youngest daughter,  asleep in the back of her vehicle, when she had the definite feeling to slow down. She listened to that prompting and slowed down, although she saw no reason to at that moment.  Seconds later a car pulled out in front of a truck that was driving in the far left lane, causing the truck to skid in front of her and loose control, narrowly missing her. Then hitting the barrier it bounced off and came back across the road almost clipping her vehicle again. The truck went down into the barrow pit and bounced back again out of control in front of her. Because she had listened to the still small voice that day, her life and my granddaughters were miraculously spared.  

Fast forward to last evening, a different daughter, who has been struggling with unexplained pain for a couple of years.  This pain has effected her quality of life, and caused much concern over it's origin. She finally found a doctor that had an idea of what might be causing the pain, and was scheduled to have surgery today. Last night she received a beautiful priesthood blessing from her husband, promising her peace and comfort throughout this experience. He asked that her doctor would be guided throughout the procedure.  True to the blessing; things went very smoothly today! She returned home with minimal pain, being able to take a walk around the block with us this afternoon. 

Tonight I am so happy for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and for a daughter who was in tune enough to listen!  I am also so grateful for the holy priesthood and the blessing it is to each of us as we embark on our separate journeys on this earth.  That a very loving daughter of God felt of it's power in her behalf this day!

We each embark on our own journeys through this life, sometimes as we travel along our path, it is strewn with thorns and detours we might not have willing chosen.  Occasionally the Lord blessings save us immediately, but often it is not until we have passed through these detours that we see the golden blessings that line the rocky path. I am so glad we can let Him be in charge, for he always knows what kind of path will be the best for us! 

Day 39 - Comfort definitely has it's place - April 17th

Tonight I thought I would mention a few high value comfort items that have made this journey so much more pleasant!  

First of all, at the beginning of this journey, my daughter's friend, who I had never met, made a blanket out of that soft minky material and gifted it to me. It certainly overwhelmed me that anyone could be so kind and generous to someone she had never met! What made it so incredibly special, was the night my daughter delivered it to me, I was having a reaction to the bone marrow biopsy, and was laying on the couch. This blanket felt like a warm layer of love, comforting me through the night.  It has definitely been my go to blanket any time I am in need of extra comfort! Yes, it's my 'blanky' and I'm afraid I might go through withdrawal should anyone ever try to take it away. I guess we'll  have to do like they do with young children and just cut smaller and smaller pieces off of it as it wears out!

Next comes my microwave heating pads, I have 3, all different sizes,  I heat them each night and they come to bed with me, somehow those aches and pains just melt away!  The only down side is when the power is out, I am out of luck! 

Thirdly, is the most comfortable night gown ever! Also given to me as a gift, for our stay-cation at the Patient Housing.  It is large and made from completely recycled material, and it is incredibly soft.

Lastly, and not leastly, at this time,  COMFORT FOOD! Seems like I have no problem getting any thing in this category down.  I think I am seeing visions of my old self returning, that's not all good, but it sure is comforting!

Day 38 - Easter Glory - April - 16th

It was another beautiful day, as I was able to attend our ward for Sacrament, Sunday School and Relief Society. This is the first time I have been able to attend all of these meetings since my transplant. I so enjoyed the talks given and lessons taught. 

Since it is Easter Sunday, I thought it might be appropriate to share a little piece of what one sister shared in her talk today from Elder Bednar.  

"The Savior has suffered not just for our iniquities but also for the inequality, the unfairness, the pain, the anguish, and the emotional distresses that so frequently beset us. There is no physical pain, no anguish of soul, no suffering of spirit, no infirmity or weakness that you or I ever experience during our mortal journey that the Savior did not experience first. You and I in a moment of weakness may cry out, “No one understands. No one knows.” No human being, perhaps, knows. But the Son of God perfectly knows and understands, for He felt and bore our burdens before we ever did. And because He paid the ultimate price and bore that burden, He has perfect empathy and can extend to us His arm of mercy in so many phases of our life. He can reach out, touch, succor—literally run to us—and strengthen us to be more than we could ever be and help us to do that which we could never do through relying upon only our own power." Elder David A. Bednar , 'The Atonement and the Journey of Mortality'

How deep these words struck my heart as I realized; even though I have felt my Savior's loving hands carry me through this journey, I haven't paid attention to all of the blessings Jesus Christ offers through the atonement. I couldn't be more grateful for the atonement, and the ever flowing fountain of His Love.  Wishing you all a Beautiful Easter!

Day 37 - Beautiful Day, Beautiful Time,  April 15th

I'm certainly one of the luckiest grandma's on earth! Today we had our Easter celebration. It was the first time since I've been home that we've been able to have all the grand kids and most of children together again! We played a few games as the grandchildren related stories from Jesus' life while he was on earth.  It was so amazing to see how well they've been taught so humbling to realize their royal potential! I know it seems repetitive, but I've just got to say, without hesitation; BEST DAY EVER!

My daughter caught a few of moments from the day, we've just got to share!  Hope you can see, why I feel so blessed!!

Day 35 &36 - Two for One - April 13th and 14th

Apologies for day 35, our power went out about 7:30 last night and was out until about 11:30.  To be honest, it was such a busy day for me, with a couple of appointments up at the Huntsman (one being my new exercise training) and a training class for Kimba, I was also out of power by evening.  It was definitely a learning experience for me, I realized as much as I would like, I am still not quite up to par. Day 35's Lesson: Pacing at this point is still a very valuable tool!

Day 36: Today is just one of those days to acknowledge some of those hidden blessings you never knew came with those cancer treatments!  As the wind was blowing strong yesterday, it was very nice to not have my hair messed up or blowing in my face!  Also, it is way nice to wash your hair (in my case sprickles) and have it dry with 2 swipes of your bath towel!  Best of all, I haven't shaved my legs in 4 weeks and they're still smooth as a baby's bottom!

I might have paid money to have some of these luxuries.

Oh wait we did!

Day 34 - Grateful for Those Who've Gone Before - April 12th

Tonight brings reflection, on two incredible people, who have blazed this trail before me.  I not only do I owe them my life but certainly their influence has molded my every response to overcoming this disease.  I speak first of my dear sweet mother, who battled this same cancer over 46 years ago. Little did I know then, she would set the bar for me to try and stretch for.  Her experience, so different than mine, included so much suffering, from the side effects of the unrefined treatments of her day.  Yet, she fought such a noble 7 year battle, never complaining, serving those around her, at any opportunity that afforded itself.  I watched as she selflessly made sure others always came first, and I was the benefactor of so many acts of her service.  I am so grateful for her example and her love, and will cherish the time I had with her!  I will have to work extremely hard to even be a fraction of the hero she was to me and so many others!  

Second, I am so grateful for a father, that showed me, when you fall off the horse, you buck up, get back on, and you better enjoy the ride from there. He was also one to never complain, always finding a power within to keep going.  I often think of his determination, even as his health deteriorated, in his later years, he gave all he had to rehabilitate and overcome his struggles.  I am so happy for the memories and example my parents gave to me! Somehow I never feel alone, as I explore this new journey awaiting me! 

Day 33 - Each Day is a Little Better - April 11th

I am so amazed at how being able to get out and about has lifted my spirit and physical well being! Having the freedom to be able to choose where I want to be has been so very therapeutic! It is such a blessing that I took for granted, and one I can never be grateful enough for! I have missed my friends, it is absolutely wonderful to see them again and feel of their love.  It is nice to be able to attend church meetings again and feel the spirit that abides in sacred places! 

I feel very happy and complete this evening, truly each day is a little better!

Day 32 - Where Have all the Flowers Gone? - April 10th

Don't worry I have them! When I received my stem cell transplant, they told me to tell my family and friends that I wouldn't be able to have fresh flowers because of microbes they and the soil that surrounds them carry.  I was obedient and let those closest to me know.  What I didn't know is how creative and clever loving people can be! Flowers have come in the most cleverest of ways, I've had paper flowers, water colored flowers, pansies potted for my front porch, so I wouldn't get those little microbes in the house, and flowers that have been pressed into fragrant soaps. All so very delightful and pretty, each bringing a little sunshine into my life!

I'm sharing these sweet little ideas for those that might be in similar circumstances wondering what might be a suitable replacement for live flowers. 

Flowers are still filling my life with Joy!!

💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮💮

Day 31 - Good Things Come to Those Who Wait - April 9th

Thought I would just share a few of the joys we have been experiencing since making it to the thirty day mark!

First of all our sweet puppy (Kimba) was able to come home! 

Second, Our darling grand-kids, who so lovingly took her (Kimba) in to be part of their family were able to come visit!
Both Grandma and Kimba were definitely in 7th Heaven!!

Third, finally a SALAD!! Even though each leaf had to be individually scrubbed,  It was so worth it!

Day 30 - Pay Day - April 8th

It is such a humbling thing to see your children become incredible adults! I titled this day, Pay Day, and really, that comes with a very big disclaimer, because it insinuates that I had put in the work to deserve this reward. Even though I know it was not any of our doing, I am so amazed at the wonderful children that I have! They are so loving and compassionate, and filled with kindness for others! 

They have each been so quick to step in and serve their parents, where ever needed! They have sacrificed in so many selfless ways to make this time so much easier on us! Their acts of service are way too numerous to mention them all individually, but I just wanted them to know that I have seen and have been moved to tears many times, as they have selflessly given of their time and love. They have made this journey so much easier and pleasant while sacrificing precious time and complete lifestyles to make this journey possible. I don't think I could have ever foreseen the wonderful Pay Day that could come my way!

Day 29 - Out of Jail, (Almost) - April 7th

We saw the Doctor today for my 30 day check-up.  All good news!!

Looks like the lock down period is over!! We are so blessed to have made it through this time without complications or having to be hospitalized!  They say about 80% of all stem cell transplant patients end up in the hospital at some time over this 30 day period. As a little side note, We saw some friends we had made at transplant time, the husband had his transplant a day after mine, having a different doctor, we hadn't crossed paths until Wednesday of this week. They had mentioned how difficult this time had been. He had been hospitalized at day 11 for 4 day, and has been fighting infections and diarrhea for most of the 30 days.  Oh, how our hearts ached for him, and yet we realized how truly blessed we had been.

As I contemplated why perhaps we were able to dodge the bullet, so to say, I know I owe so much to the Lord and the many prayers that have been offered in our behalf.  That being said I also have to give much credit to my gate keeper, and loving caretaker husband, Robert. He has been extremely vigilant to keep me safe and protected! He never left my side, night or day, making sure I never came in contact with any possible germs lurking anywhere! He stayed with me through all good, bad and ugly, waiting on me hand and foot.  No one could ever ask for a more devoted husband, friend and companion.  I can't even express a smidgen of the gratitude I have for him and his nonstop loving care! Which brings me to the Title of the Blog today, as I expressed that sentiment to a good friend, that I was finally out of Jail, Robert quickly reminded me, I might be out of jail, but I still have an ankle monitor attached. I will be wearing my mask in public and extremely vigilant to not share any germs with anyone as my immune system continues to grow!  But, what a wonderful day it has been!!

Day 28 - It's Okay! - April 6th

Something that my doctors advised me from the very beginning of this journey has finally begun to set in.  Not all by choice at first, but after this learning period, I am slowly getting to know, how vital this advice really is! They said it's okay to take a rest, if you feel tired, take a rest, it is vital to your recovery! I think how many times as women (and men) we feel the need to just keep going at our top speed even though we might be sick, hurting, overburdened, or broken. We just feel that it's our moral duty to do everything, be everything, and fit every thing in our schedule! Sometimes however we find ourselves becoming less effective, less ourselves, less like the person we intended to become. Sometimes we just get sicker. It has taken this journey to finally get me to see, It's Okay to take a rest!

I was so struck by Elder Scott C, Grow's talk in LDS General Conference, when he talked about his experience with Elder Maxwell. He mentioned that when Elder Maxwell was diagnosed with cancer, he had said he just wanted to be on the Lord's team, whether on this side of the veil or the other. He was very reluctant to ask for the Lord's help in his behalf. Elder Maxwell's wife had to remind him that even the Savior had petitioned the Lord that if it was God's will, that the bitter cup might be taken from Him. Of course we know that Elder Maxwell's life was extended another 7 years as a part of the Lord's plan, but here is the part that caught my attention, Elder Maxwell's treatment took about a year before he was able to serve again. He sought the Lord's will, and then followed His plan, he took time to get better, and then was able to be all the Lord intended him to be.

I wondered if we applied this to our lives, how much better we too could become. When we are sick, broken or just plain exhausted, if we seek the Lord's will in our behalf, and we finally realize, it's Okay to rest,  It's Okay to take time to get better. He will guide us to know what we need to do to become the person He knows we can be. I am so thankful for the experiences that the Lord has allowed me to partake of, for the lessons I am slowly learning, and for the wonderful leaders that guide and direct us in this gospel, both present and past.

Day 27 - No Pain No Gain -April 5th

Part 1:

I am so thankful that the Huntsman Cancer Center has realized there are so many facets to overcoming cancer. They not only work hard to wipe out this dreaded disease, they also help you to work hard to build your body and mind back to fight off any chances of it returning again.  They have a complete health and wellness program, which includes a power program, which stands for Personal Optimism With Exercise Recovery, nutrition counseling, music therapy, acupuncture as well as emotional counseling. I went for my first physical base line today, okay it's probably not surprising that I found out I have a Very  L - O - N - G way to go to get in shape. Anyhow, I am really excited to get started... I'm counting today's testing as the pain part, by the way...

Part 2:

Totally delighted and forever grateful for the happenings of this night! We had gotten a phone call, a few evenings ago from one of the young men in our ward. He wondered if it would be okay if his quorum could come help with a little yard care tonight. We humbly but gratefully said yes, especially with my restrictions of not being able to touch any soil and plants (same for weeds) for 100 days. To our surprise, the entire young men, young women, their leaders and the Bishopric showed up and completed what would have taken us most of the summer to do! Especially as it would have been up to Robert, and he is spending a lot of time with his new hair.

Thank you Bluffdale 3rd Ward!  You're Soooooooo Awesome!!!

Your pain, was our gain tonight!

Love you all 💕

Day 26 - The Joys of Having Hair and Not - April 4th

I've talked about how wonderful it was to get my wig, to begin to feel closer to my old self. Your self esteem  takes a little hit when you see the horror in your grandchildren's eyes the first time they see you without hair, or perhaps it's when the older ones can't stop laughing, admittedly it is quite humorous, and I did prefer that reaction! I loved seeing the new me, although not quite as much as I enjoyed seeing the new Robert!

My wig is really pretty comfortable, but when it comes down to it, I love the soft little pretty hats that I have been given.  There are ones made of cotton and there are some made of bamboo, I think they are made of a little bit of heaven! They soothe the weary head that still is sporting a few "sprickles" (what I call the few little shaved hairs still hanging on for dear life) They are so wonderful to maintain warmth or coolness and so easy to slip on fast. So..... Yes, I am so thankful they have a way to help us baldies, feel and look a little closer to our former selves but, don't be surprised to see me wearing my good old comfy hats around town!  Also a few other tricks for comfort that have helped the sprickle situation, I just use conditioner on my head at night, followed by coconut oil, really softens a prickly situation! 

Day 25 - This is My Fight Song! - April 3rd

The other night, I wasn't sleeping too well, and I got the distinct impression I needed to be sharing a little more on my blog. Things have gone so well and we have been so blessed, there has not been something to be grateful for each day! There have been so many big and little miracles, I am truly humbled at the Lord's hand in my life! That being said, this journey has not been without it's challenges and victories, and that is what I will be sharing as I am hoping that someone else going through similar experiences might be be able to find solace, comfort or ideas by me sharing some of my experiences. 

I am going to begin with the first big challenge after the chemo and stem cell transplant. I have already referred to this earlier but I'm not sure that I emphasized what a giant transition this one thing made in my life at that time. I'll be referring to my blog from Day 12 - March 21st.

Before that day I was really struggling keeping anything down or anything in... My days consisted of going to bed, going to the bathroom, laying down in the car trying to make it to the Huntsman before throwing up, coming back to Patient Housing to begin the whole scenario again. Nothing seemed tolerable let alone palatable. I was so skeptical about the ice cream bar for a couple of reasons. First, in my little mind it was about the farthest thing from being healthy that I could imagine... And having struggled with this fatal attraction in the past, I wasn't sure I wanted to start first thing out of the gate addicted back to goodies, second, I hadn't been able to keep milk products down anyhow. 

With strong encouragement from my lovely caregiver, he purchased the ice cream bars on the way back from Huntsman. I was so shocked that something could taste so pleasant and stay put! It truly began the process I needed to start feeling better.  It didn't clear up all the nausea or diarrhea at once but it honestly started me on a new road! The doctors were right!  

Now, like I said, There are still bouts with nausea and the other depending on the day, but I have found the other good advice given by the doctors works also, "Don't get to hungry, carry snacks with you, and be prepared to eat them when needed! For me, 
Tillamook cheese slices and Kind, low glycemic nut bars, have really helped! Hoping this information will be helpful to someone out there, beginning your Fight Song!

Day 24 - We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet - April 2nd

Like many of you I was so thrilled to not only see but to listen to our Prophet's voice today! What a thrill to feel of his love and get his direction on the what matters most in our lives at this time! Oh, how I love him, and am so grateful he leads, guides and directs the church today. Also it's so exciting to hear of the new temples coming! How blessed we are to see how the church is growing, so excited that another temple will be coming close by!  I am so grateful for the inspiring words we have heard these past 2 days, such absolutely amazing counsel, for a Christian Church! It is right and good! It is Gods True Church, Forever grateful for General Conference, Forever grateful for this gospel and it's truth! 

President Thomas S. Monson

Day 23 - The Blessings of Service - April 1st

As I listened to the wonderful talks today given at conference, not only did we hear the words of God, but we saw those talks come alive in the actions of our dear sweet neighbors, living the words that were preached. They were our examples of being apprentices of  Christ not just part-time disciples. They spent their time between conference, cleaning and trimming up our some what neglected yard into a beautiful masterpiece!  The Lord continues to tudor me as I see how He blesses His children through the hands of His disciples. As hard as it is for us to be the recipients of others hard work, we realize without their help today, the work would still be there! It is definitely a humbling experience to be on this side of the pendulum, and we can't wait to give back, but how sweet are the blessings of both sides of service!