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Catching Up

Time is just flying by these days... I guess that's partly because I am feeling so much better now that the chemo haze is lifting. I just finished week 2 of my first month of iBrance. I am excited to report that there have been relatively no side effects. My energy is coming back, although I am still pretty beat by the end of the day at work. I am not sleeping all weekend, and have had a few really good, really busy weekends lately.

I had my second round of Faslodex shots last Friday. It hurt a LOT more this past time. I think it's because the nurse pushed it faster than the first time. My poor sweet little ass is bruised and sore. The biggest side effect from the Faslodex is fatigue, which, compared to the chemo side effects, is totally livable. I CAN do this!!! We just have to hope this treatment works for a LONG time.

In amazing news.... I was accepted to go to Lourdes in May with the Order of Malta. The Order of Malta and the Knights of Columbus take 50 people every year to Lourdes for a week, all expenses paid (except booze and souvenirs, which means this trip may end up costing a fortune!). Our pastor nominated me last October. Matt and I were both interviewed and had to submit essays. We just heard last Sunday that we were picked out of 150 applicants. I feel so beyond lucky, blessed, grateful, etc. All of those overused adjectives are bursting out of me right now. Of course we are praying for a miracle of complete healing, but I am also searching for peace and comfort. I've heard so many incredible things about this pilgrimage, and really am speechless about what it means to me to have this opportunity.

Sunday started out a bit rough and I couldn't really move well. I had to get it together for our tax appointment, and as I was in the shower I started praying. The second I stepped out, Matt was knocking on the bathroom door telling me Gene (my contact from the Order of Malta) was on the phone. The timing gave me goosebumps. I know that all of this is happening for a reason and God has a plan for me. Times like this really substantiate that in my mind.

Feeling better both mentally and physically has been a nice change of pace. I feel like it's coming out in every aspect of my life. I'm bringing this energy into my teaching, my friendships, and most importantly my "mom'ing." I feel so much more like my old self and it's been refreshing and encouraging. See.. I knew 2018 was going to be awesome! 

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