How often do you hear, “time flies!” or “where did the time go?”  It is hard to believe that ONE YEAR AGO Amanda’s future abruptly adjusted. While the rest of us think, “a year already?” For her, the length of one year felt like an eternity to live through.

 Amanda is slowly making up for lost time. I think the first step seemed to be accepting that- no, the past year will not be given back…it was ripped away but making the most of the future is essential. I see her mindset getting there as she beings to feel a bit better.

 Amanda is currently in remission…those words came from her Doctor on May 5th. Since then, she began a series of medications. Hormone blockers, a chemo pill, bone density infusions, etc. With those come some interesting and sneaky side effects that remind her daily that she is still fighting a battle and her life will always be different.  She is also scheduled to undergo a hysterectomy in July, which will eliminate MOST of her body’s ability to produce hormones that could feed potential cancer cells.

 She spent some of her Spring back at school!! She was lucky enough to be welcomed into the school office as a friendly face and helpful heart. She is hoping to be a part of the team in some way this coming Fall.

 For Amanda, Aaron, Grace and Hallie, this summer will be monumental. In their opinion, the memory making needs to be tenfold. Campfires, sunsets, paddle boating, walks and a first EVER family vacation! The “Chillax Shack” that was supposed to debut last summer, will be open limited hours this summer! After much discussion, it was determined that having a project as a family and doing something in their community are two very important things they want to accomplish.

 As the girls grow another year older, Grace is on the horizon of her senior year and Hallie will become a new driver. Aaron has learned the value of his presence at home and the security he provides his family. Amanda recently turned 42 and learned it is ok to celebrate herself. Big accomplishments or small feats; they’re all worth celebrating. Today, after a year of hell, Amanda offered this advice on Facebook:

“Please make the most of every day. Don’t wait for something life changing to happen before you live and love harder. Give hugs, say I love you, do silly things to laugh…because none of us come with a guarantee.”