Amazing Easter!

I always love Easter, but this year seemed extra special to me.  My husband was home all weekend, my girls were giggly and excited, we dyed egs...and hunted for eggs, the weather was nice, my daughters were like sponges asking insightful questions about Christ's resurrection, we saw a beautiful play depicting the life and mission of our Savior, we went to my parent's house for a wonderful Easter dinner, and we enjoyed time with our family.  It was a beautiful weekend! 

I was caught up in moments...not worrying about catching a great shot of the girls in easter dresses or hunting for eggs.  I'll post the few that we got anyway.

I have a strong testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  I am so grateful for the knowledge I have of him.  I spent time each day studying his life and final weeks.  I have gotten to know him much better this year and I will be forever grateful for his atonement.

‎"The key is not to prioritize your schedule

but to schedule your priorities."

- Stephen R. Covey

I love this quote...I am really trying to live this way.  I want to work each day toward my goals, make time for the things that really matter, and not regret not living each day to it's potential.

More questions than answers! But here's what I know

I have gone to a few appointments this week to get results from recent ct scans and other tests.   I have known from the beginning that my cancer is rarely detected in these tests.  I had over 10 ct scans and they were never able to "see" my stage 4 cancer.  I have an elusive cancer breed, I guess. 

That being said, they didn't see tumors on my scans, but there was other evidence of malignancy.  I have some tests with liver counts that are worrisome (apparently I'm close to being jaundice...no yellowing yet, but I am itchy all over and I guess that is why.)  I also have more of that fluid build-up back in my abdominal cavity.  Last time I had this,  I looked pregnant overnight and this one is accumulating much slower.  My remaining ovary and uteris are painful, angry and are covered in cysts, but they are very hesitant to operate on me to fix them.  Basically, the drs are scratching their heads and wondering what to do next.  So...we can't see cancer, but can't explain other sympotms that are most often caused by cancer.   We are going to try to wait and see what happens with the ascites (fluid)...and will likely have it drained and checked for malignancy.   Beyond that, I'm not sure. 

But...I feel good...I wish there were more definitive answers, but am grateful at least that they didn't see anything big or obvoius.  I am enjoying the break from chemo, surgeries, and hospitals.  I feel like I am good hands both medically and spiritually.  That is enough to keep me going!  I continue to count my blessings everyday!

The only way to climb a mountain...

Is one step at at time!
A couple of days ago we went hiking as a family for the first time.  When we sat at the base, my children thought there was NO way we were going to make it all the way to the top.  We started our trek...one step at a time...and before we knew it...we were on the top looking down.  We had a great lesson on the top about setting goals and keeping our eyes on our goals.  We talked about how we can do hard things...one step at a time.  Life has reminded me of this simple lesson several times lately.  If you are facing things that you find insurmountable...just remember, you CAN do it, one step, or day, or moment at a time.  We can do hard things!  We are not alone!  I been gently reminded to always keep my eyes on my goals and spend time on the things that mattermost.  I have committed to trying to make all my moments count!

Tests tomorrow and National Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week

Tomorrow I have CT scans and other tests that have me a bit nervous.  Your prayers have been heard and yeilded amazing miracles... please keep me in your prayers tonight if you can.  I won't know results until next week when I meet with all of my specialists.  I will let you know as soon as I do. 

Also...this week is National Young Adult Cancer Awareness week.  Did you know that more people between 20-39 die each year from Cancer than all of the other leading causes combined?  Also..most of those deaths are because the cancer is detected when it is too far advanced.  If you have symptoms that you know aren't right...get them checked.  If the dr. dismisses your concern because of your age...get a 2nd opinion.  I sure wish I would have.  Early detection makes a world of difference in treatment.

Simple moments

Its the simplest things that I find myself cherishing SO much!  Today the girls and I played at the park, took a walk, skipped rocks, had a picnic with friends, made dinner, and laughed a lot.  It was a great day!  I continue to count my blessings!  I have several cancer tests coming up this week, so please keep that in your prayers.  I don't know what is next, but I am sure grateful for today!