I can’t believe it has been a full year since I posted last. Yes, I am still around :). Time is flying for sure and I am so blessed and grateful to be celebrating my 3rd holiday season and 64th birthday since being diagnosed. All the kids are home and Johns fiancé Sam is also here with us. My heart is full. 

A quick medical update. Tried to play “Tania Harding” in March and had a fall… ouch it hurt and my leg was turned a different way than my body. No worries, a few screws and plates put me back together. Then had cancer progression and underwent radiation again over the summer. Long term side effects have slowed me down abit and I am even less reliable than I ever was… if that is possible. Funny how it used to be because of work, but now I am retired  and I am still unreliable. Go figure.

 I continue to strive to try to make the most of everyday and am adjusting to a new “normal”. God has blessed me with this time that I never thought I would have. I remind myself daily to “rejoice always, pray continuously”. Some days that is easier than others, but you can ALWAYS find something to be grateful for. 

In the darker times, and there are some, cancer makes for an emotional roller coaster. Too many people gone too soon this year, including my cousin.  It just does not seem fair. And as I have said goodbye it reminds me of my own mortality. I have gone through different stages this year. Fear, denial, loneliness, depression and an anger phase that has been brutal. You would think this would get easier, but in some ways it actually gets harder. Don’t get me wrong, I know how truly blessed I am, but I want this to serve as a reminder to everyone that cancer is so much bigger than treatment. Reach out, support and love on those fighting the fight. And just as important, don’t forget the caregivers. This is a struggle for them as well!!! 

As I reflect on 2022,  I am overjoyed with the time I have had with family and friends. So many memories, so much laughter and relationship building, lots of food, fun travel and some great experiences. God has been good.  So as I enter into 2023, I am hopeful that I will get stronger as I get further away from the steroids and radiation. I am so excited and looking forward to John and Sam’s wedding in March. We love our soon to be daughter-in-law. Maggie graduates with her Masters in May and so excited to see what God has in store for her.  And in April, Neil has a spring performance. Could watch him dance forever. He has plans to spend the summer in California. Oh, and my wonderful Aunt Mary and Uncle Terry’s (both deceased) youngest daughter is having a baby. So exciting. And then Kevin is on break for the summer. What shall we do? Ireland and Alaska cruise are n our bucket list. Long term goals help keep me motivated! 

In closing, I do hope you all had a wonderful

Holiday season. May 2023 be filled with peace, comfort, good health, and Gods blessings. 

All my love,

Joan