November 21

Happy Birthday to me!

So – last week was my birthday. It was the end of a very interesting year – I must say. I was able to celebrate at a few different events with my lovely friends. Shawna cashed in a Sub-4-Santa dinner at Angie Vriens cabin the Saturday before. We had an amazing meal and some great conversating (thank you George Bush) by the fire afterward.

On my actual birthday – I took the day off and totally chilled at home. I didn’t get dressed or even bath. It was wonderful. I watched a BBC miniseries on DVD and hung-out with my muddy-pawed dog as it rained like the dickens outside.

The next night I went to dinner with some friends and the night after that – several of my friends met at one of my favorite restaurants – Red Iguana – to celebrate with me. Cute Joaquin from my ward played Happy Birthday on his trumpet. It was so fun. Thanks to everyone that helped me celebrate in any fashion.

I have an appointment with my Oncologist – Dr. Morgan – next week and an appointment with my Radiation Oncologist Dr. Sause the following week. After that – I may not have any appointments for a while. My skin has completely healed from my radiation appointments. I’m really doing well. My energy level seems to be getting better and I am really looking forward to the holidays.

As trying as this year has been, I am so grateful for how blessed I have been. I am so grateful for my family, friends, work, home, church, dog – you name it. I have certainly been able to get some new perspectives this year and I’m so grateful that things have gone as well as they have.

I saw the movie Twilight last night with Shawna. Remind me to never go to a mid-night show with screaming teenage girls again. I remember when they announced the release date for the movie shortly after my diagnosis. I wondered at the time if I would be around long enough to see it. I am not only around – but a cancer survivor that feels well enough to go to a midnight movie. How great is that?

The scarves, caps and hats are coming off in the next couple of weeks. I look a little Anne Heche from the Ellen years – but it will keep growing. That’s the great thing about hair.

My Dad and Meize and my brother Kevin’s family are coming to my house for Thanksgiving next week. It will be so nice to see them. As much as the world seems to be going to hell in a hand basket the last few months – there is much to be thankful for. I pray the next year will bring everyone I know the happiness they desire and every possible blessing.