Joy Column

[hutchibk]

This is an offshoot of Bonnie's post on another thread. I propose we keep it going daily, and post something joyful that we felt, saw, did, experienced, received, learned, woke-up to, etc..... whenever we feel like sharing. It is important to keep connected to the joyful experiences during our journey. No matter how big or how small. They are what keep us going and kicking and fighting to make it around the next corner!

[hutchibk]

I woke up to find my gorgeous and CRAZY Maine Coon Cat curled up in the new vessel sink in the bathroom today. Good gawd that critter brings smiles to my face... never-ending. He is a KOOK! He just looked at me like "what? you got this for me to sleep in, right?"

He wouldn't let me brush my teeth. He kept jumping back up and trying to crawl back in, even with the water on. Did I say he's not the brightest bulb... not all the time anyway.

LOL

[Mary Jo]

I found Joy today in just being alive and well. It's not because of the weather, that's for sure. Gloom, rain and cold. BUT I'm alive and healthy ANDhttp://www.her2support.org/vbulletin/images/icons/icon7.gif most of all loved by our God. What more is there??????????

Great idea Brenda.

Mary Jo

[Believe51]

I agree. Breast cancer was not going to rob me or make me bitter about life. It has taken enough from us thank you very much!! I have worked very hard to try to bring back the normalcy that my hubby and I so yearned for. We have that laughter back and there are many stories that we would love to share about JOY.

And I too have a Maine Wave cat, huge orange cat with a "M" on his forehead that means "Mommy" LOL!! Won't find him in the sink though...tub maybe; where he can get all wet and 'let' me towel him dry.

Today's Joy: Being able to kiss my husband's bald head and thank him for being the fighter he has always been!! For being able to hold his hand and feel it. One year 9/7/07 and just thankful we have this time they did not think we would have!!

Let's do it girls!!>>Believe51

[Sheila]

I found joy today reading this, and also one of my Grandchildren came over, Allison, soon to be a year old....I got a big hug, a sloppy kiss and got to see all 7 of her pearly white teeth when she smiled....being a GRANDMA, HAS GOT TO BE A TRUE GIFT FROM GOD!

[Believe51]

Cute little story about my 3 1/2 granddaughter Tia. She came to visit and Ed was sleeping off that belly pain. She wanted to see her Grandpa Ed (she has grandparents, great grandparents, and great great grandparents so names are vital for her). I reminded her that when she was sick last time she needed to sleep and be left alone, she did not want to even talk to anyone, she could not eat.

After reminding her of the importance that Grandpa Ed stay sleeping because then his belly did not hurt, she said:

"But Grandma, he is my grandfather", (reminded her why he needed to be in bed) then she repeated it for me!!

"But grandma, he is my grandfather, he is sick and I Loooooooove Himmmmm!!". Guess where that little bugger ended up? Yessir, she gave her Grandpa Ed a big hug when he woke up!!

The little miracles in life, the joys of just being alive and able to hug this small wonder. By the way, she looks just like my son only with blonde hair, when I see her I cannot put aside how she looks like daddy!!>>Believe51

PS. Ed said when he goes in for the next scan to see how the brain mets are he wants the doctor to drill some holes in his head to let the voices out!! ROTFL!! So it looks like bowling is an option if you are not good at pool!! LOL

Love Always>>Believe51

[Faith in Him]

Joy is everywhere. I noticed my hair, eyebrows, and eyelashing are all growing back in and are starting to show some real promise.

My children (9 & 5) are running around the backyard, playing on the waterslide, screaming at the top of their lungs. Also, my wonderful husband of almost 10 years said a most beautiful prayer for me this morning.

And our loving Lord has His hand on all of us today.

[DonnaD]

Brenda,
What a great idea! We often get caught up in the disease and forget we do have so much to be thankful for. Joy is all around us!

We have been camping for the last week. Had a wonderful time hiking and biking. But when I walked into my house I got such a warm feeling. I love my home and all the good memories here!
Donna

[Vanessa]

Joy today was eating a huge ice cream cone. I decided to treat myself. Over the weekend, my joy was spending time with my granddaughter, grandson and of course, both of my daughters. Another joy is cuddling with my little 7 lb. chihuahua, Chico at night.

[swanky]

I got to see my oldest start his first day of Kindergarten. Walked him to school and then picked him up. The little guy looked funny carrying a backpack that is almost as big as he is!

And it was such a quiet day with him gone....LOL

[dhealey]

Joy today was getting out and walking at 5:30 (it's so hot in the evenings) this morning and hearing the birds starting to wake up and seeing the sun rise before going to work. Realizing it feels so good to be alive!!!!.

Thanks for this wonderful idea, what an inspiration!
Debbie

[BonnieR]

Brenda, first of all I feel such joy that you were inspired by my post to do this. What a wonderful idea! Thank you!
I am finally feeling joy today as it is the first one since chemo last week that I have not been in pain.
AND I have 3 different friends coming from out of town all during the next 3 days.
AND we did the final walk through on our remodeled house today.
AND I laughed at your cat story. I could just picture it!

[sassy]

Great joy over the weekend spent with my husband and children, my father and stepmother, my brother, sister-in-law and niece. Taught my sons how to waterski--one of the great joys of my youth.

Joy today as I was in the laundry room folding clothes and my 16 year old son stuck his head in the door and yelled "Love you MOM!"
________
Side effects from prilosec (http://www.classactionsettlements.org/lawsuit/prilosec/)

[cafe1084]

My nine year old was given a guitar last week and he's been "practicing" really hard. So, today I said something to my mom about medical bills. He enthusiastically piped up and said "Mommy, don't worry! Someday we will be rich!" I asked him how that was going to happen and with such intense seriousness, he replied " Well, my guitar career is really going to take off soon." :)

Live life as adventurously as a five-year old with a treasure map

Happy thoughts and peaceful moments,
Steph C

[Jeanette]

Joy is getting every morning and thanking the Lord for another day. Also I checked online today and I only have 19 days until my Eastern Carribean cruise . WOO HOO Best wishes to all my 'Sisters and brothers" Jeanette

[AbbyDawg]

I felt joy today and especially this weekend because I felt so incredibly crummy, lotsa pain, and even had the "trots" on Friday! ... Um, it makes me very happy because I just started the Tykerb TEACH study and I am SO hoping I have the drug and not the placebo ... so I am welcoming anything that could be a side effect and not just my "wishful thinking".

AbbyDawg

[Jean]

Joy today was shopping for a birthday present for my son who will be 23
on 8/23...and planning a birthday dinner party for him.I also had my first 3 month check up with onc. Another added joy is not wearing my wig! My hair has grown enough to ditch the wig.
Yahoo....

Jean

[SoCalGal]

First of all, I thought this was a posting from Joy - my chemo brain. Now that I'm up to speed...

Today I had a mani/pedi with my beautiful daughter, Gina, who will be leaving soon for college. She has been gone most of the summer, so I was truly happy to spend a little time with her.

I am also thankful for this site. I have "met" many wise and wonderful warriors.

xo Flori

[Donna]

If I turn the water on my garden at just the right time, a whole flock of the cutest little birds comes and bathes in the leaves of the trees as they become drenched. They make soft chirping sounds and the water droplets are like little rainbows as they fluff their feathers to get them all wet.

Yep, that's joyful!

Donna

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: I took Joy getting things together for our get-away to celebrate his one year anniversary living with cancer. We are going to the White Mountains Friday 9/7 thru Monday 9/10 at a beautiful bed & breakfast. We will be going to check out the wildlife and wilderness, our greatest loves....animals and the great outdoors!!

I guess I just feel blessed to have this time with my Knight In Shining Armor and that he feels decent enough to even want to go!!

Another Joy: Thankful to have friends as special as all of you, you are my Angel Warriors!!

Believe51

[Marlys]

I awoke this morning in God's wonderful world where nothing happens by mistake. Believing that makes every day joyful and worth living. I pray for each of you are who are experiencing difficulties in the course of this disease and thank God for His loving care. I also thank him for my beautiful granchildren who love a Grandma that can play video games with them!
I have never had a cat but love the story. I do have Pepe who loves to go for his SSNP walks. (That is for stop, sniff, "n pee.)
This thread is a great idea.
Love & hugs,
Marlys

[BonnieR]

Our newspaper has a daily happy musing. Today's is "Some think that joy is in short supply. Rather, it's in short use!"

[fauxgypsy]

We have an ongoing heatwave and drought. A few days ago I looked out my window to the garden. Much to my surprise I saw my half grown kittens playing in the water from the sprinkler. A little thing, but it made my day.

Leslie

[BonnieR]

Leslie, it is so often the "little things" isn't it? Unexpected...

[doh2pa]

I'm blessed with a lot of joy lately, so thanks for starting this Brenda. I'm joyful because:

1. I've reached my first "dear Lord let me stay alive long enough to" goal of seeing my oldest son off to college. We leave next week and it's sad but I'm so happy about the young man he's become and so excited for him as he's about to begin this wonderful journey.

2. I have a man who has loved me for 25 years and we still laugh and dance!

3. I have amazing friends who share the good times and bad but we laugh a lot more than we cry!

and last but not least.....

4. My eyelashes are growing! (sometimes it's the little things!)

[hutchibk]

I am headed out to pick my 'better half' up at the airport... he travels a lot with his work and is sometimes gone for 2-3 weeks at a time. What a blessing and a joy and a treasure he is in my life! My 12 year old 45 year old boy! LOL

He's a sweetie and brings so much joy to my life. Even when he drives me a little crazy.... you know what I mean.

[Believe51]

You know I have been asking for signs lately. I open up the paper and what do I see?

An article with the word:

BELIEVE!!

It was a front page story and the word was smack dab in the center of the page. When I read it (second time this week that word was in the center of something I was about to read) it reminded me of who I am.

I am thankful that in my sad day I was reminded of what is important to me and what I need to do to conquer this all!!

Believe51

[MJo]

Joy is not having to water my garden in the morning because it's raining!!

Joy is starting to deal with 40 pound weight gain and eat healthy again 20 months after diagnosis (thank you weight watchers core program)

[lilyecuadorian]

today ...I went to do a mammogram for my left breast ( the same doctor who find the beast lasat year ) told me .."this time is not a bad news is a good news ...the calcification that you have last year still the same and are bening ...so let me schedule for next year on Aug" do you hav any question ? just look at him smile and said THANK YOU ....

[Emelie]

for me today was to wake up and open my eyes and to hear the birds singing in the tree outside my window. I thank God every day for allowing me to grace this wonderful place for one more day.
Emelie

[cafe1084]

There is a patient at work who has, since I first lost my hair, believed me to be "Stevie", her stepson LOL. She even introduced me at her birthday party as "...Stevie, the most wonderful son a woman could ever ask for." So, today, I am talking with her and she tugs at my hair and raises an eyebrow at me and says "Stevie, you may want to think about getting a haircut." I didn't realize my hair had gotten so long, because just a few short months ago, I felt sure it would never grow back.

Steph C.

[Mary Jo]

It is Tuesday evening. I am sitting here relaxing - reading all the wonderful posts from my WONDERFUL cyber friends. Also, my wonderful sweetie of almost 29 years (Sept. 2) and I are leaving tomorrow for a little mini vacation to western Wisconsin in an old fashioned town. We are traveling through a lot of little old fashioned towns as well. I love to do things like that.

Another "joy" moment!!

Mary Jo

[BonnieR]

I was going to lunch with a friend who is visiting and we found a stray dog along the way. No tags. Spent the afternoon tracking down his owner. The JOY was seeing the successful reunion!!!!! I have never seen a happier dog!!!

[hutchibk]

I love lost pet reunions! They are awesome.

[Believe51]

Todays Joy: My son called me at 1:00 am this morning because he needed his mom. It was my pleasure and honor to be able to answer the phone, talk him into closure, and then tell him to go to sleep. When he was little we would always say each night, "See you in the morning when the sun comes up". He came up with this saying and we said it all through his childhood.

It was my JOY this morning to be there for my terrific son and it surely was a JOY to say "See you in the morning when the son comes up", I missed that so.

This post is wonderful!!!>>Believe51

[Audrey]

I saw a hummingbird this morning in my flower garden--It was so tiny and bright--what a beautiful creature. Made me smile!

[hutchibk]

My joy today is waking up and still laughing at a favorite comedian of mine who I watched on Comedy Central last night, Jim Gaffigan! That guys just cracks me up! And laughing, really, really laughing is one of my favorite things to do in the whole world...

[StephN]

Whoever says "Life is for the birds" may not really know what they are saying. Birds do a lot to lift my spirits! Audrey had a hummingbird visit. We have several nests around.

Three years ago I put a hummingbird feeder hanging from a shepard's hook right next to the edge of our patio. I sit and read or ponder my garden and then I hear the whirring of their wings. Some times there are 2 or 3 divebombing me and while one feeds the others will land in the lilac bush and "stand guard." At times one will come close to my face and just hover in the air looking at me. I wonder which angel sent them...

We have two birdbaths and one is quite near the kitchen window under a sheltering Japanese maple. All kinds of birds visit our yard I got a field guide so we now know more about all the different birds that come. The Flickers peck in the grass, the sparrows take "dirt baths," the Jays come and chase off the others, Mr. Robin comes and hogs the birdbath, and the Finches, Siskens and Chickadees are among other regulars. At times we will see one of the rarer birds and that is always a treat to find it in the field guide.

[tousled1]

My joy today was when I picked up my grandson at school. He came running down the hall and gave me the biggest hug and kiss. Then when we got home we sat down together with a pint of Ben & Jerry's ice cream and two spoons. Eli is my joy everyday and whenever I'm feeling down he seems to sense it and just pours on the love. Grandchildren have to be God's greatest gift.

[sassy]

StephN,

I can relate to your love of birds, I have several feeders outside that I can watch from kitchen and patio doors. I also have been raising zebra finches for several years, but think I am ready to pass them on to someone else to rear now.

At the lake this weekend, it was a wonderful birding time. In additional to the regulars, we saw blue herron, white crane, kingfisher and bald eagle. Birds give me joy.
________
SerennaHot (http://camslivesexy.com/cam/SerennaHot)

[Grace]

Here's a silly one, except for the cat lovers out there who will understand. Our cat Rachel is totally devoted to my husband. Our other cat LoMein likes me a bit more than Miguel, but generally treats us as equals, but Rachel is a one person cat. Always when we watch TV, Miguel sits on the left side of the couch and I sit on the right. Today, while packing we switched places. Rachel jumped on my lap and it took her a few seconds to realize I wasn't Miguel. Her expression said it all--"what are you doing here?" We laughed for at least ten minutes. And then, while packing, I put all the clothes from the closet on the bed and sure enough LoMein decided to sit on the only piece of black clothing, my best velvet blouse. How do they know?

Every day, I find joy in owning cats and will probably get some more when we move to Maine.

[Sherryg683]

I was watching my beautiful little girl swimming today, running around in her little bikini. It hit me all of a sudden that she is becoming a "tween" and starting to act like one. It brought me joy to think of watching her as she grows. She's like sunshine to me..sherryg

[Catherine]

Joy today when I managed to keep my old cat, Biggers from licking my fresh out of the oven bread. More joy when I found him with his head in the tub of fake butter.

Joy to the World, all the boys and girls, Catherine

[harrie]

Today I felt pure joy when someone today asked me how I was doing, I could honestly, 110%, say I am doing JUST GREAT!!!!! And I feel like I have more energy then I know what to do with!

Tonight I will go to sleep letting go about yesterday, I will not think about tomorrow, and I will drift off to sleep with a very peaceful mind. That is joy.

Maryanne

[sassy]

Joy today that my CT was clear and the spots on my bone scan turned out to be previous fractures!
________
Colorado Medical Marijuana (http://colorado.dispensaries.org/)

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: My eyes opened to see a giant orange Maine Wave cat staring at me because I slept late. (have not ever used an alarm clock until this last year, somehow today I shut it off and slept, slept, slept).....Til Mookie told me enough is enough. Love that big boy!!>>Believe51


PS. I wrote my post down first and then read my friends joys, they gave me great pleasure reading more cat stories!! And Catherine, Mookie loves real butter and his sister used to do anything for fresh bread!! How cuteeee!!

[harrie]

Joy for me today was when someone asked me how I was doing and I could say, 110%, that I was feeling absolutely great!

Joy is also drifting off to sleep knowing that today, my two kids, both away, are healthy, happy, and working hard at what they love. Everyone is safe.

Maryanne

[BonnieR]

have had a joyful 2 day visit from a girlfriend. Amazing how much better my appetite can be in a good restaurant!
Went to my hairdresser yesterday certain that I would need my head shaved. He said there was hope still and gave me a VERY short pixie cut. I saw a few people I know who actually complimented me on it!!Bald spots and all! lol
But the most joyful was when my friend and I lay on the back patio looking at the stars in the desert night sky and just talking about life......

[harrie]

Bonnie, I like to do that too. I go outside, lay out on the picnic table and just gaze up at the nighttime sky and feel the depth, see the clouds moving, and look up at all the stars and try to totally relax my body.

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: My longtime girlfriend called last night to mention that she missed me so much because it has been 3 weeks since we last went out. She told me she had the night reserved just for me and suggested a local Chinese restaurant....in case I needed to go out. She said she would understand if I did not or could not go, but that each week she leaves a week night AND a weekend morning reserved just for me. I appreciate the reservations and the freedom to choose if I want to go and every single night she calls me. Every single night!!

I take great joy in my friends and family. I guess I am just simply happy that I am surrounded by love and prayers each moment of every day!! And that goes here too. Love you all.>>Believe51

[hutchibk]

My joy today is my gray tubby... umm tabby sleeping with his head in my lap right now, purrrrrrrring so loud. Oh, and that today it the final day of us getting moved into a new house. I will lie and say that it will be a joy to unpack all those boxes... LOL.

[BonnieR]

Brenda, that makes you and I and Grace who are all moving right now! Anyone else?? Between our year-long house remodel and my diagnosis and treatment, and the move, my brain seems to have run out of the ability to make decisions....
But I have made one more decision to hire a gal to help for a few hours one day a week with the unpacking and sorting and putting things away.....
And I am an artist so a few artist friends are coming over next week with homemade cake to help set up my studio at home....
JOY!!
..

[BonnieR]

Am having neuropathy and pain today. Need some joy. This was today's "happy musing" in the newspaper: "Life is full of simple pleasures. Find a few."

[hutchibk]

today's joy was putting together IKEA furniture... I love that stuff!

[harrie]

My joy up and com'n will be putting together my Office Max computer furniture for my up and coming renovations for my computer room! I am so excited I can't wait!!! Monday is the laminate wood flooring....then comes the computer furniture and amoire, and then the new vertical blinds! The furniture is glass and black legs called the Sharper Image style. So in the corner I found this floor lamp with 3 different colored light fixtures coming out to put in the corner. The room will look totally different!!
( I wish we had an Ikea in our town!)
Maryanne

[Donna]

Hi Amazing Group,

It will be with mixed joy and sorrow that I watch a tribute to my son today - he will be leaving his theater company to find fame and fortune in L.A. They are staging a tribute to him with video clips of his many roles while he was with them.

I am so proud of him as a person and performer!

Have a great day!

Donna

[harrie]

Donna, how exciting for you and your son!! Another big step in his life (and yours!). Wishing him the very best life has to offer!
Maryanne

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

My boys, twin Maltese brothers Paul and I rescued 4 yrs ago, bring so much joy and love into this house, we are always calling one another to come look at this. Chase (12 lbs) and Scamp (8 lbs) are all white with huge doe-shaped black eyes and back noses. They survived together (kept in a tiny cat carrier all day and night). The rescue lady showered with them 4 X she said, to get all the urine and feces off of them. They'd been scared by taunting children banging on their crate as pups apparently. They had mange (mites that attack the entire body and further compromise the immune system, I learned). Chase was the worst. The hair on his face and neck fell out, leaving red raw skin, like a burn victim. He wouldn't eat or drink or come near us. We bathed them daily in special shampoo and loved them up with pets and hugs and kisses and prayers and meds -- and (you know ME) lots of HEALING ENERGY, all day and through the nights. I *nursed* them back to wellness, I swear.

After a few mnths, the vet was amazed that Chase survived. Paul asked why. They usually don't make it when they're that bad off. I wouldn't hear of that, of course. They wake up, in bed with us, always up against one another and at least one of us and then they *groom* one another, licking the other's face and ears clean. This morning that romped. It's a kind of dance, boxing each other with gentle growly sounds. Then all excited, Chase runs and Scamp follows. Originally, because Chase was so sick, Scamper scampered through the house and Chase chased after him. He was a lot slower moving as he was so sickly. We thought he just wasn't too bright, as he reacted so sluggishly. We thought he didn't get it. But he's brave and strong. And little Scamp, our coward, courageously stood in front of Chase whenever we approached, barking and *protecting* his weaker bro (we now realize).

Chase actually had a chemo-like bath at the vet at first, to kill off the mites. They dipped one paw, then after a while another, and eventually the whole dog. They let me take him home as we concurred home is where they are happiest. I stayed up that night w/him because he had these twitching fits the vet had warned me about. He was obviously in a lot of pain. I totally related. I held him tight against me and talked to him softly, telling him I'd stay w/him and reassuring him that he'd be all right, trying to lessen the jerking of his body. After that, the vet wouldn't give him any more baths, but -- he came through. Our boys are healthy and frisky and bless our home with loving energy every single day. Paul and I each delight at watching their shenanigans. They are precious. Know all you animal lovers understand our pride and joy. We have two little white things to be happy about. People tell us they're lucky we found them. We feel just the opposite. We're so lucky to have them. I swear they recognize the sound of a styrofoam doggie box of leftovers from a local restaurant as it comes out of the refrigerator and come running to anxiously watch me divide up the booty! http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/smi/0201e05fca/04 With much appreciation...

Andi http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/celebrte/heart

AndiBB@aol.com

[Mary Anne in TX]

It's a great joy to be dropping our little granddaughter at her 1st day of 2nd grade tomorrow morning before heading to SAT for Herceptin infusion. How lucky can a girl get? Mary Anne

[chrisy]

I had the joy of taking a 1 day trip to Chicago (Glenview, IL, actually) for my 11 yo niece's birthday party on Friday night. Thursday they had tornados and major rainstorms and they were without power from 3pm Thursday until (I think) today. So we had the party with 11-11 year old girls by flashlight and candlelight. And the *worst* part was, we had to eat ALL the ice cream or else it would melt! I think it will be remembered as the BEST birthday party EVER!

[Mary Jo]

Today's joy.........................................There were many!

1. A beautiful sunny day.
2. A beautiful sunny day to enjoy our church worship service and picnic at a local park.
3. A beautiful sunny day to worship our awesome God with our church family but also with husband, son, daughter in law and 2 precious grandchildren.
4. A beautiful sunny day to take a Harley ride with hubby along Lake Michigan and then stopping off for ice cream (caramel collision was the flavorhttp://www.her2support.org/vbulletin/images/icons/icon7.gif I chose)
5. Ending this beautiful day with a nice walk/run - me, my ipod and a happy heart.

Mary Jo

[fauxgypsy]

I had an interesting day. It started because I found a quote from a Buddhist nun on a cancer blog today. It was about accepting bad feelings and moving on, a simplified version of the quote.

http://blog.healthtalk.com/breast-cancer/life-with-breast-cancer/breast-cancer-and-bad-days/#comment-11471

I have been interested in Buddhism for many years and this really touched me so I did a search for this Buddhist nun, Pema Chodron. This led me to a website with information about her books. It also had a map of Buddhist meditation centers.

http://www.shambhala.org/centers/

Now I live in Northern Mississippi which is not ordinarily a place that you associate with Buddhism. But there was a link to a site in Memphis. So I went there.

http://www.dharmamemphis.com/index2.htm

While I was browsing this site I found a link to a meditation center not very far from where I live. Very rural. Not Memphis. Now I would have been less surprised if it had been near Oxford, since it is more of what you associate with a university town. But I called the number that was listed. I was promptly invited to visit. They were having a festival today. I haven't been out much since my surgery but I put on my breast and got my husband to drive me there. It was beautiful and almost completely Vietnamese. It was like a large family reunion. There was one women there who was not Vietnamese and she explained what was going on and introduced me to several people. I was made to feel very comfortable and had a really good time even though I am still very tired and sore from my surgery. We had missed part of the festival and I couldn't stay long but I did learn more and have found out that there are some people in Oxford who are also interested in learning more and that get together for meditation. So that was my joy for today, and also, seeing the lotus blossoms blooming in the beautiful pool. Now I am almost too sore to move but it was worth it.

Leslie

[fauxgypsy]

I just wanted to add something here. This forum is something that I look forward to. I have roamed the web since I was diagnosed and this is the one that touched my heart. This is the one that I compare all the others to. It is so full of loving, caring, thinking people who are talented writers and creative people. I almost said women, but I know there are men here as well. I enjoy the opinions, I am glad of the information, and the support lifts me up when I am having a bad day. I wish I could meet all of you personally. I just want everyone to know that I appreciate the effort that has made this possible and the time that everyone puts in to answer questions and calm fears. I know that I would feel very isolated without it. Thank you all.

[Donna]

Hi Leslie,

I LOVE Pema Chodron! Her works are simple, but not easy. Reading her books and listening to her CD's have been such a huge help to me with this cancer stuff! I would personally recommend "Confortable with Uncertainty" as a great book for our circumstances.

Happy you found her, she is amazing!

Love to you,

Donna

[tousled1]

My joy today was being able to take Eli my grandson to the swimming pool for a few hours. His father had to go to work for a few hours and his mother had shopping and housework to get done. So Eli and I went to the pool. It was a beautiful day and even though there were no other children at the pool Eli and I manged to have a good time just playing catch with a ball in the water. He is the light of my life and every minute with him brings me such joy.

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: Remembering that I asked my husband if he was hungry last night and the cat answered!! That really started my morning off right and I am even chuckling now. Of course I knew what the cat was going to say!!>>Believe51

[hutchibk]

my cat always answers, even when I'm not talking! LOL... My first joy is always the cats, and then other things just fill in over the rest of the day!

[hutchibk]

One of my greatest joys everyday is this forum. I don't know where I would be everyday without the support of all of the folks here. You are the pillars that help keep me supported and moving forward everyday. When I was little, whenever I was sick or hurt I would ask my mom "have you ever had this or felt like this?" and she always answered "yes - honey, I know what you are feeling" - I needed to know that I was not the only one to have ever felt that way or hurt like that... and that is what this site is for me, the support and reassurance that I am not going through this journey alone. Thanks everyone!

[weezie1053]

Joy today was watching my 5-year old grandson, who lives with me, board his first-ever school bus without any trepidation. This is the same kid who accompanied me in Sept 06 when I had my hair practically shaved off. He wasn't suppose to be there, but his Mother did not come home from a night out in time for me to leave for the hair appointment. He was my pillar of strength on that day as he laughed and giggled. He continues to give me the strength to fight this disease, and he showers his Grandma with love. I am blessed and joyful.

Louise

[Vanessa]

I loved Andi's dog rescue story from a few posts back. I rescued a 3lb, flea bitten chihuahua from my mother-in-laws farm back in 2000 on Mother's Day. Everyone said he would probably die on the trip home, but I was determined to nurse him back to health. He now weighs 7lbs. and I am rewarded daily for rescuing him. He is my soul dog. He cuddles with me every night. He is my daily joy.

Another joy I received yesterday was both of my daughters calling me to see how I am feeling. Both of them remembered that I have been feeling a little more fatigued lately.

I really get a joy reading about everyone else's joy and sometimes it can be the smallest things. Seeing my 2 grandbabies smile is one of my greatest joys.

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: I stood in the kitchen and just held my husband tight. I hugged him, smiled, we did not say a word. In those 5 minutes we needed no words because it felt like we said a million already. I love the conversations that we have without even speaking, they remain our best ones ever. I am blessed to have found my true love and will cherish the time we have together an eternity!!

Hugs, Prayers and Big Love going out to 'ya all!!>>Believe51

[Mary Jo]

Today's Joy -

Going to the park with daughter in law and granddaughter Jennah ( age 7) and grandson Isaiah (age 18 months) then taking granddaughter for a special grandma/granddaughter lunch before our school year begins. We're going to Wendy's where grandma can have a healthier lunch and granddaughter likes it.

And breakfast today .................... hang on to your hats.............can you believe it..............................Cocoa Puffs for this grandma. Hahahahahha! We bought some little boxes for a trip we were going on and one of the cereals was Cocoa Puffs. No one ate it yet BUT I did today. Just finished it and drank the cold chocolate milk out of the bowl YUM! Not the most nutritious breakfast BUT I enjoyed every crunch of it.

Happy day all,

Mary Jo

[madubois63]

Yesterday, I sent my son off to college. He passed his road test on Friday and drove off by himself. It was a big day for both of us. I never thought I'd make it this far. Then my friends and I drove out east on Long Island, and I walked in to a field of sunflowers to cut a huge bunch to share. I never did that before. Bumble bees flying all around me. It was beautiful! This morning, I got up at 5 am to watch the lunar eclipse on my birthday. Never did that either. I saw a shooting star and some bats as well as the sun rise. Then I went back to sleep. Life is good.

[Sheila]

My joy today is that my twin girls are 32.....oh wait a minute, that means I am getting really old...so is that a joy? Yes it is...it means I am still surviving and enjoying each and every beautiful day I'm given.

[Vanessa]

I agree Sheila getting older is looking better all the time. Congratulations on having 32 year old twins. You did good. And here's to old age.

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

GOSH THIS JOY THREAD IS FABULOUS. What a great idea, Brenda! It's a beautiful gift you gave each of us, that keeps on giving, day after day... Thank you, thank you, thank you.http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/thghts/gesture-thanks

Whenever Andrea Bocelli's Romanza CD plays, wherever I am, I drift into reverie. Also when Savage Garden's Truly, Madly, Deeply is on, I become transported to a cloud midst the heavenly blue sky and take a perch, observing the world. It is magical. The percussion, the words make my heart quiver. I WANT TO STAND WITH YOU ON A MOUNTAIN. (Can you see yourself atop one?) I WANT TO BATHE WITH YOU IN THE SEA. Dreamy. I WANT TO LIVE LIKE THIS FOREVER UNTIL THE SKY FALLS DOWN ON ME... It just fills me with this overpowering feeling of LOVE for every one and every thing that Is! Today, as I was jotting something down, over my computer, my wrist accidentally hit the CD Play button and my song of Love came on.

It reminded me of THE MOMENT. Years ago. I was driving west in the late afternoon in Boca, going to my daughter Ali's house, to visit my then tiny granddaughter. Josie is now about to turn 11. The song came on and all I could think was LIFE IS SO WONDERFUL. AND JOYFUL. IT IS SO GOOD TO BE ALIVE. THANK YOU GOD. I looked up and the sun was getting ready to set. The sky was incredible. Giant brush strokes of vivid neon orange and splatters of hot pink stretched out above me as far as I could see. I was listening to my song of passion and became aware of the magical sight as my ears were soaking in the bliss of the vibe coming from the car radio. I bent my head down to get an even fuller view then reminded myself that I was driving and needed to look at the road. So I managed to look up and around at the same time, taking it all in. IT WAS A WOW NOW MOMENT I still carry with me and replicate every time I hear Truly, Madly, Deeply.

It's now an old song but I still catch it from time to time in the car. I have sat in parking lots, waiting for it to end, never wanting to stop in the middle, wanting every last drop of joy from it that I can reap. And the blue sky in Florida is bluer than any where else on earth, I swear. I can recall the buckets full of spilt paint painted by a master covering the blueness with coral and fuchsia and I feel utterly blessed. Nothing has changed, but suddenly I feel touched by something quite sacred and wondrous. JOY. SERENITY. BELIEF. LOVE. May they be yours as well...
Andi http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/celebrte/celeb-confettiThank you God for the gift of this glorious day!

[kcherub]

Today...hmmm...

-No more chemo, for now, and HOPEFULLY (I will myself to think), never again!

-I saw little, tiny eyelashes coming in.

-My 7-year old told me he was the "laughingstock" of the school because I sent a little drawing of a cat in his lunch--it was the sight of him using such a word!

-I got 10 new things put on my store's website.

I love this! I hope to do it every day! It really puts things in perspective!!!

[BonnieR]

Another artist friend came to help unpack my studio. I may soon have my art table cleared off enough to actually paint on it!!! AND she brought a homemade chocolate cake with blissful frosting ......

PS: Kerchub, I laughed out loud at the "laughingstock" remark!!

[chrisy]

The whole idea is to get REALLY REALLY OLD!

my joy was waking up in the middle of the night and going outside in my robe to see the lunar eclipse - although it wasn't my birthday, It was still pretty neat. Mary ann, nice new picture - glad to hear from you.

Can work be joy?

I have been going 150 miles an hour at work, but it is good stuff!

[hutchibk]

Ahhh - today's joy was hearing my favorite Elton John song on the radio in the car and singing it at the top of my voice!! Yeah - that was fun... always is.

[chrisy]

Today's joy was being at my favorite coffee shop with my friend after our morning walk, listening to old Frank Sinatra songs. I didn't sing along because Frank was doin' just fine!

[Sheila]

I had to go to the car dealership, and had a horendous hot flash...of course the men looked at me like I was in a circus...bald and sweaty, how sexy is that...but then I smiled, even a hot flash brings joy, It tells me I am still around to enjoy them! So, I took advantage of the situation, stopped at Mc Donalds and ordered a senior citizen coffee.....SO THERE OLD AGE!

[Jeanette]

Joy is getting a senior discount at our local Kohl's. Love all the stores that give senior discounts . Jeanette

[madubois63]

Yesterday's Joy - Breakfast with my son (He slept all day and was awake all night for the whole summer - so this was a treat). My friend Liz (Cancer survivor and doesn't work like me. That means she is available for anything at a phone call. We drove to "The Hampton's" and ate sandwiches by the water). Walking with my daughter on the track (clear skies, cool breeze and good laughs). And I have to say, my chicken summer stew came out really good last night!

Today's Joy - The good lab reports I will get later on at the cancer center, a drive to the ocean (Fire Island) with Liz and the comfort of my own home and family. Life is good...

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: My 3 1/2 yr old granddaughter had just come back from the dentist all upset. She asked her parents if she could see her Grandma Marie at work, so my Daughter-in-Law called and asked if they could swing by. They did and I left work early for something besides my husband's breast cancer. We had the best of times and I really needed her dose of medicine. I was thankful just to be able to sit there & draw and eat with my family.

My husband and I decided to go out for a ride, he is at his peak during the evening hours. First we grabbed sandwiches and coffee (yes..he cheated and loved it too..LOL). Then it was off to the ocean and as we traveled there we went the long way. The long way enables us to view a beautiful falcon nest, owl nest and hawks nest. No week is compete if we do not see our pals and this week was no different. Last night there were about 20 bats flying around the lights in this area and I was captivated with the wonder of it all. I looked up to see our falcon and told him hello. I have named him Eddie!! LOL!!

The joy did not stop here, the moon was so glorious perched boldly in the sky, the light bounced off the waves and gently touched his face. There are benches of black marble that represent mini-memorials for those we have lost and when I asked if he wanted his own bench he said "No Bop, I am no one special". Of course I stopped to face him and as that moonlight kissed his face softly I held him and we cried together. After I could gather some air I replied: "You are special love, you are my knight, my warrior...the best friend I could ever have!! I told him he has to feed his soul some more and stay strong because I am demanding a miracle and he too needs to claim it for himself. I reminded him that we have a mission here and I am so happy that we have this chance to try to get to dance with NED". We practiced the dance in the moonlight with others watching the calm ocean in the distance.

I find joy in becoming a better, stronger person. I keep to heart that I fear very little now that cancer has entered our lives. Not much can give me fear anymore and I feel that it has helped to make me that person. I worry about the little things less, I fear less, I have better perception with evreything. I find joy in the things this journey has given to us, cancer aside. You see, even before cancer I felt this way about my husband and now things are better than ever. Of course cancer aside.

And one more joy I take pleasure each day is my family support here. I KNOW I could never do this without my beliefs and the strength I gather here. I love you all. And girls, practice that dance with NED and remember to save us a seat!!

Everlastingly>>Believe51

[chrisy]

Ok, Marie, as usual, your post makes anything anyone (especially me!) might say next seem like a feather in the wind!
So glad you were able to share that wonderful moonlight beach time. And keep encouraging Ed (and the rest of us!)

My little teeny joy was using my "internal alarm clock" this morning to get up at 5 am (2 1/2 hours earlier than usual), to go up to UCSF for labs and my infusion. I stopped using alarm clocks 9 years ago after hearing a speaker on "the power of your mind" tell us that your body KNOWS what time it is and you can wake up whenever you want, but most people don't trust it. Well, it took a while, but I now BELIEVE my mind has the power to wake me up at whatever time I say, and it works!

Now if I could just get it to put all those little canser cells to sleep, permanently!

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

MY LITTLE JOY. I ran errands and got to my 3:00 appt for a manicure exactly on time. A woman was standing at the counter in front of me. I gathered my credit card (to pay before, so I don't smear my nails) and was off somewhere else mentally. Then I tuned in, and I heard my Friend Anette's voice coming from this woman in front of me. Anette?, I asked KNOWING it had to be her; that was Anette's voice to be sure! Of, my God. She wouldn't turned around. What's going on?, I asked, as she is the most huggy person, full of joy and affection. What are the odds!!?, she said proclaimed aghast. She was buying a gift certificate for my Bday to give me on Sunday, when my daughter and son-in-law are making me a BarBQ to celebrate, and have invited Anette and hubby (Bunky). Yes, that's his nickname, don't know why. Yes, I'm *guilty* -- Virgo!

Anette (Antoinette) was so utterly embarrassed (caught with her hand in the cookie jar). She just kept repeating, What are the *#?!ing odds of you being here on this day, at this exact time??!! Stunned, nodding her head (which I could still only see from behind. FINALLY, she turned and hugged me and told me sheepishly that I better act surprised when she gives me my present. She left and then as I was paying, Bunky came in to give me a hug too, didn't want me to think he was ignoring me he said. (I didn't even realize she was with him. He was in the car.)

So I just felt all glowy and loved and loving and joyful, and it's *stuck* for hrs now! So nice to be remembered. And, she honestly didn't have to buy me anything! I mean it! (Paul bought some champagne in Costco to chill and bring and surprise everyone, to rejoice with.) Birthdays are wonderful. I intend on keeping on having them. I'm going to collect them, in fact.

May your every day have moments of joy, love and serenity. This is what I wish for my dear soul mates I find myself bonded to. Joy, love and serenity are what keep us sane and get us through the worst of times. Sending happy energy to all my Sisters and Brothers, as always...
Andi http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/smi/0201e05fca/06
AndiBB@aol.com

[kcherub]

Bonnie...

Yes, he is too funny! One more reason to think positively!!!

Take care,

[hutchibk]

Today's joy was making the "rounds" at my clinic... just went in for some quick labs, and stayed for almost 2 hours! I visited with my Access program advocate, my social worker, financial counselor, Dr's nurse (her hubby will be on CMT tonight, plays in band with Miranda Lambert), infusion nurses, my lab techs... and around every corner seemed to run into my doctor who kept laughing at me, asking "are you still here? - you should get a job here"...and he targeted me with a rubber band, and told me my eyes looked pretty today... He is such a nut and I love him and all of the associated staff there so much. For such a serious place that does such serious work, they are so positive and playful. What a blessing and a joy!

[BonnieR]

Brenda, wow, that is one happy place. Mine is friendly but nothing like that! Maybe I am still too much a "newcomer". I am working on developing relationships...They always assign a different infusion nurse, I am told. I wonder if it is to avoid too much bonding???
My JOY today:
Our CO detector went off this morning. I could not get it to reset so I did as instructed and called the non-emergency fire department phone number. Two firemen showed up. I apologized for bothering them but said because my husband was away and I was on chemo, I did not want to take any chances. They fixed the problem and then one of them asked me about my cancer. His wife has been having pain and finally, at a routine mammogram, something "suspicious" has shown up. They cannot get get a follow up appt until next Wed and he is SO concerned. He was beside himself and was getting teary-eyed telling me about it. Big strong fireman. I felt so grateful to be able to share what knowledge I had with him. Gave him my phone # for her to call me if she wanted. Nothing happens in God's world by mistake. It was meant to be that he came to my house today.
It filled me with joy..
AND, later, I received a suprise basket of flowers from a friend "just because"!!

[hutchibk]

Yeah - I am definitely on the "guest-list" there, LOL. I guess I am an old-timer and have the benefit of knowing everyone, been going there for almost 4 years now. It's a great place. It's where Lance Armstrong started locally before going to the specialist he found... and it's where Ann Richards went, too.

[kcherub]

My joy today...

I had lunch with one of my favorite people, and tried a new Thai dish!

Sales were great at my store, AND I had the day off!

My son's teacher said he is doing great this year (he attends Montessori and takes medication for ADHD, so I am extra proud)...

My husband paid off one of my credit cards, and

I am here and feeling great!!!

Here's to tomorrow,

[StillHere]

Krista, I just have to say that the picture of you and your son just made me feel wonderful. It is just so REAL and like true life captured on film. It looks so spontaneous, it could not have been posed. I feel so lucky to have my children all grown up before I was diagnosed. I truely pray that a cure comes along soon for all you courageous women with young children. I know that I will trial experimental treatments if/when I ever get to stage IV, first for my daughter (Nicki Age 27), and second for all my sisters on this site with kids who need their mothers. Got to go this is getting long winded and my husband just came home with fish fry's. Yum Yum!, yes I know fried foods are not healthy. Tooooo Bad. Peace to everyone tonight! Karen

[kcherub]

Karen,

If I can bring joy from another day into this--the picture was taken at The Titanic exhibit in Atlanta in early May. I had actually just told him that his Daddy wears girl's underpants (with cherries on them to be exact), so that he would giggle. It worked. ;)

Take care,

[madubois63]

Joy in my life: A phone call from the doctor saying my blood type has FINALLY changed from my B+ to my donor's A+. It's kind of weird, but this is a great thing!!

A ferry ride to my sister's with my kids and friends, and a big party for me that was postponed from last week. A pool, good food, nice weather and lots of people I love....

Spending nearly $30 on tomatoes at the farm stand and making a HUGE pot of homemade sauce for the winter. My house smells sooooo good! Oh, and I making fresh salsa too - yum!!

[dhealey]

Today's joy is being here to celebrate another birthday with my loving family!

[StephN]

Wasn't sure if it was yours or a family member's by the post - but I will go with "it is yours."

Sunday farmer's market nearby is always great for celebrating the joys of Mother Nature's bounty. I went today and there was such a profusion of ripe vegetables and tree fruits that I hardly could choose. We are celebrating my brother-in-law's birthday here tonight, so I could buy a few more items to share at the dinner. Even the first ripe red bartlett pears were fragrant so I got some.

The heirloom potato/tomato man was so nice he even gave me a VERY ripe and LARGE heirloom tomato with we will use tonight. He remembers that I have been coming to his stall most Sunday's and told some friends to go see him. Today he even had some lovely eggplant, which I got to go with the medly of squash I got from the hispanic family I buy from.

I feel so "old-fashioned" looking forward to Market Day! Like I should have on a big hat and long skirt instead of the organic cottons I often wear. Have to confess I often go to a Thursday farmer's market also not far away. Organic, organic, organic!

[dhealey]

Yes it was my birthday. A year ago I wasn't so sure I would still be here, so it was a great day! Thank you!

[hutchibk]

How about this one... waking up yesterday morning to find that my cat had been doing his job overnight and had caught and killed a garter snake who had snuck into the house! Joy was that I did not wake up to a snake in my bed! LOL

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

I am grateful to be celebrated another Bday. Every one that I truly love has called me and/or sent cards. I even got a few gifts, some totally unexpected. I feel so special. It has been a lovely day! Yesterday my son-in-law made one of his fabulous BarBQs in my honor. So I was with 3 of 5 grandchildren and my daughter, SIL, hubby (of course) and a favorite couple who is friends w/both us and my dghtr/SIL! Paul brought champagne. (We are both thankful for reaching this milestone, very aware and deeply moved!) There was a Carvel cake for me and they all sang the HAPPY BDAY SONG with gusto! With help, I smeared my name and dotted each of my grandkids noses (at their request) and we ALL blew out the multitude of collected candles.

My California dghtr called and sang to me along w/my 3 yr old grandson. They sounded like a choir, I swear! Very loud and resonant. Tonight we're going w/friends to *the club* for dinner and more toasting and chatter and laughter. Life is a party. (My dad was 63 when he died of a massive heart attack, in '77. I always thought he was way too young to die. I particularly feel that way as I turn 63. I remember the funeral home being literally filled to *overflowing*http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/phrases/phrases/happy-bday.gif with people who were blown away by the terrible and sudden loss. It was quite the tribute.) So, for many reasons, I am keenly glad and jubilant to have reached yet another Bday, after thinking in '95 (at age 50) that I may not make it to my next Bday. I quickly rethought that, as I find I must do on a regular basis, cheering myself up with strong, bold thoughts of endurance. But back then, I did have moment of thinking I'd be disappointed and not live to welcome in the next century, as I'd looked forward it for so long! And here I am. HERE AM I, Lord. Thank you for sustaining me and enabling me to reach this glorious day. I take nothing for granted. Feel utterly blessed and joyful.

I have spent the day avoiding packing, the most horrid chore in the world to me. We are leaving on Wed. for a quickie to NY. Pelvic sono, family affair, friends, rush, rush, hug, hug. I haven't brought the suitcases out yet as I know once my pups see them, they will be sad. Right now, they're still clueless. (I haven't told them.) Looking for a major adrenaline rush tmrrw to see me through... http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/smi/0201e05fca/06 Sending loving, joyful energy to all my Sisters and Brothers who I feel so very close to... May you all live many, many decades to come in happy harmony and good health! I'll drink to that! Later...
Andi

[weezie1053]

My joy today was outlasting my 5-year old grandson as we walked what is known as "the loop" in my small town. It is a 3-mile area which starts and ends at the local hospital. I walked the trek with no aches and/or pains. Neuropathy remains only in the toes. Last month I had three plantar warts removed which I was told probably came from an infection brought on by the chemo. If felt so good to be able to enjoy what I use to take for granted. I have hair on my head and a bounce in my feet, and a grandson with a smile that gives me strength.

Tomorrow night I go to my second meeting of the local breast cancer support group...and I'm excited!

I am blessed, and I wish the same for you Newbies and those of you struggling with a recurrence. May God's love and the support of others continue to give us the strength to see the silver linings.

Louise

[juanita]

I cleaned my house this weekend. From a post on another site, making do with less, I decided a lot of this could go. And go it did. I'm also grateful that i got to talk to my 1 year old granddaughter on the phone last night. Couldn't understand what she was saying, but at least I got to hear her voice.

[dhealey]

Happy Birthday Andi! I celebrated mine this weekend also. Feel so blessed to have been surrounded by loving family. Hope you had a great day!

[rentrac]

I love the idea of celebrating the joys of daily life. My joy today was cleaning out kitchen cabinets - a chore I'm never wild about. But to have the energy to actually DO IT and see oder arising out of the chaos my wonderful family invariably bestows upon the hidden depths of cabinets and refrigerator. Then my 11 year old and I went grocery shopping so we can start making care packages for her big sister who's starting her 1st year of college... and her roommate.... and her hall mates....and my "adopted" daughters who are her dear friends that have spread out for college this year. Every batch of brownies and cookies going into the boxes will be a delight. I can imagine the surprised looks as my girls open discover their packages and find unexpected goodies. One of my girls is from South Korea, so we've decided I'm her American "Mom". The joy of knowing I can give her a sense of family life when she visits, especially since she's so far from home makes cleaning those cabinets and baking her goody box a real delight.
Thanks for letting me share.
Warmly, Linda

[BonnieR]

Rentrac, what a wonderful thing you are doing! Love in every morsel!!
I saw a joyous film today. "Gypsy Caravan" about gypsy musicians from 4 different countries traveling to the US to perform together. I loved seeing them in their native lands too. The music was so full of joy. Sometimes pain. But always heartfelt....

[Jean]

and as I walked on the beach in the sunshine or at night in the moonlight
I felt great joy and happiness. Last summer was difficult as I was having
chemo and my husband and son were so concerned about me. Last summer I was dragging through and making the best of it. What a difference this summer....how joyfull I am and how deeply I appreciate all the beauty that is around me. The joy of running into the ocean and feeling the waves hitting me. Prior to chemo I would walk into the ocean
and move slow depending on the temperature. Now I just run in and enjoy it. I used to look for the perfect shells on the beach. Now I find joy in picking up odd shapes - even broken shells. We collected a batch of shells to take back to the house to paint designs on them. One oblong
ribbled shaped shell was transformed into a shark, another which was broken was to become a crab the broken section making perfect
claws. I was just bursting with joy as my husband, son and his girlfriend
also sat with me and we all painted on the odd shaped shells. What a great collection, as the shells were outside drying on the deck neighboring
kids passing began looking at them and it gave us additional joy to share some of them with the children. As I walked on the shore I thought of my Her2 sisters and said a prayer for all to have joy and peace also.

Jean

[madubois63]

The past few days of Joy - a belated birthday party at my sister's house in Connecticut (my 2 year old nephews were sick last weekend). We took the ferry over, and the weather was just beautiful. My family and friends surrounded me and sang, and I just let the waterworks flood. I got lot's of gift cards to buy new clothes in my new size!! And the chocolate layered cake was AMAZING. I savoured every bite.
Monday sales at the stores!! I did good and still have some more money left on my gift certificates!!! Yeah!!! I made tomato sauce for the winter. Bought $30 worth of tomatoes at the farm stand and the house smells soooo good. I also made fresh salsa for Taco/fajita night...need I say anything more - YUM.

[BonnieR]

Jean, you really reminded me of a goal I have set for myself. In my life I had spent so much time on the Jersey shore. Now I find myself CRAVING it like never before. The feel of the water, the sound and smell, the food. So, your post took me back a little and gave me hope that this time next year I too will be visiting the shore again. I can already feel the joy!

[hutchibk]

Joy today was a total stranger over the internet helping me locate a discontinued door to an IKEA enterainment center... what a sweetheart! We thought we were out of luck, and voila- it showed up via fed-ex today. Yippee!

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEBBIE! http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/celebrte/celeb-confetti A fellow Virgo. And a Sister in Life! Two peas in a pod. Yes, thank you, I had a great 2 days of celebrating, getting calls one after the other from my most beloved family and friends. How great to be remembered. Hope your day or days were full of joy!

And it was a true joy to receive good wishes and a little special attention from all you wonderful ladies, my HER2 buddies. No one can understand like you gals. And you have the BEST energy, great wisdom and generous hearts. I love you all and deeply appreciate you -- each and every one of you -- every day, but especially am grateful for your good wishes.

A great thing I have learned on this journey -- WHOEVER WANTS IT AND FEELS THEY NEED IT THE MOST, AND HOLDS ON TO *I CAN DO THIS*, *I WILL DO THIS*, I HAVE TO DO THIS* -- all the while pushing away all the doubt, pain and haunting thoughts that naturally occur -- WINS! Yes, it's a full time job. A 24/7 job staying alive, surviving and thriving. It doesn't come easily to be sure. Some days we must take baby steps, not just one day at a time, but one hour at a time, making micro goals for ourselves. But in the end we feel more joyful than we ever did before. Because we appreciate every little thing. We cherish each special relationship. We KNOW how truly blessed we are to be alive. Wishing NED for all you beautiful, wonderful women, along with serenity and LOVE...
Andi http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/smi/0201e05fca/06

[Jean]

Bonnie,
My wish for you is to make foot prints on the Jersey Shore....
The shore is calling your name...

Wishing you all the best during your treatments. Hang in there
before you know they will be behind you.

Sending you hugs,
Jean

[Jean]

Bonnie,
My wish for you is to make foot prints on the Jersey Shore....
The shore is calling your name...

Wishing you all the best during your treatments. Hang in there
before you know they will be behind you.

Sending you hugs,
Jean

[madubois63]

My total joy today was a trip in to Manhattan with my girlfriend Linda. She is a five time cancer survivor (uterine and stomach). we had a carriage ride through Central Park, went to the zoo, saw a wedding at St. Patrick's Cathedral, went to a street fair that was at least a mile long, stolled and ate in Greenich Village and best of all shopped at Jimmy Choo's. Linda has money and loves to spend it. She insisted on buying me a pair of shoes. I actually now own a pair of the most amazing shoes ever. I could pay most of my monthly bills for what they cost. I protested for about a half hour as the shoes were on my feet. I know her well enough to know that I was getting the shoes whether I picked them out or not...so I picked the most pratical pair with a lower heal and in black because they go with everything. I know this is not the place to joke like this, but I want to be buried in these shoes! I am sleeping in them tonight! I feel absolutely guilty about accepting them, but secretly I am in my glory. Now mind you, I walked in to the store in my walmart platform shoes and holding my Target pocketbook...LOL! Linda, on the other hand, looks and dresses like a Barbie doll. She only wears high heals. She bought the MOST AMAZINGLY SEXY shoes I have ever seen. Her shoes cost about $100 more than mine...

[BonnieR]

Madubois, I loved your story. Funny, I just heard from a friend who was feeling guilty about buying some shoes. And I will tell you what I told her. "Wear the hell out of them!" No saving them for special occassions. Everyday is special. And don't feel guilty for a minute!

[rentrac]

Life is far too important to be lived seriously! Besides, what part of your poor body tends to be overlooked the most in carrying us through our fights? Poor overlooked feet. They walk the walk, carry the loads, stub their toes and fussed at if they hurt. Luxuriate in their new found shoes and enjoy every second of those shoes! Your feet deserve it... and so does the rest of you. Besides, I suspect your friend is enjoying your delight as much as you!
Warmly, (and wishing for a pair of Jimmy Choos myself!),
Rentrac

[PinkGirl]

My joy is similar to Madame Dubois's only mine cost $3.00 !!! I found them at a yard sale on Saturday morning. They are a brand new pair of purple Adidas,
very comfy, with a gel heel, and my orthotics fit inside. Purple is my favourite colour (not pink) !!!

[sassy]

Brenda,

Thanks for starting this thread. I look forward to reading it each day and sharing everyone's joy. So glad to concentrate on the positive!

My "joy" today is being here to read this thread!
________
Marijuana card (http://medicalmarijuanacard.info)

[MCS]

I found JOY in my daughter liked her training in social work today-she's doing graduate work. I thought two years ago I would not see her graduate from college. Hope to see her get her masters.I also saw JOY in my other daughter, also in college is in student government and has her first interview with a " grown up" to discuss bus routes in campus

Smiling now

Maria (mcs)

[Emelie]

What a joy for me. We were supposed to go to Europe last Fall and then I was diagnosed with bc. It has been so busy with the move, the new house, hubby's new job that I just put our dream on the back burner. Well, I am here to say the God works in strange ways. It looks like we will be in Florence for about 2 1/2 weeks in Oct. with his new job. Of course it doesn't hurt that they will be paying for the rental car, hotel, his meals and airfare. See how much money we saved by me getting bc? (Hard way to do it).
Will have to take my lap top so I can stay in touch and see how everyone is doing.
Joy for now,
Emelie

[Vi Schorpp]

Great news on going to Florence...I was there a few years ago and it's so beautiful...your trip/life just turned out the way it was supposed to...have fun. The joy for me today would be remembering my trip to Italy, and all the beautiful sights and people I met. My sister and I saw Rome (Sistine Chapel was truly one of those moments), Venice, the Italian Lakes, and so much more. I think I could go to Italy 50 times and never get enough. I love the people and all the amazing history. This is the same sister that I went to Australia and the U.K. with...she loves to travel and I love sharing time with her since she lives in Florida and I don't get to see her as much as I would if she lived in Ohio.

[BonnieR]

Emelie, your news gave me joy! How wonderful for you! It is a great reminder that sometimes we just have to "postpone" things but not give up on them.

[Vic]

To Brenda and All,

What a GREAT IDEA, Brenda, to share all these joyful messages together in one place. First off, I am a "cat person," too, and your cat has personality that is "overflowing" with a cool attitude.

I have two furry ones, one a long-haired shaded silver Persian and the other a short-haired gray "rescued" cat, both of whom are very different, and lovable in their own unique ways.

Yesterday, I wrote on my calendar that I was grateful (also joyful) for being able to work out at the club with a private trainer (and get through it), and then having a wonderful lunch that I'd made and appreciated and finally a walk to do errands on one street (here in So. Cal., we drive everywhere. I did drive to one location, but changed it up by actually walking to several stores and it gave me a whole new perspective!).

It's great to be alive and savor each and every day.

Enjoy your times and find joy in each moment,

Vicki Z

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

I have a lousy cold. It's *just* a cold, but I feel wiped out, beyond listless, unable to speak (people on the phone keep asking me if they woke me up) and unable to think. I spoke to my sweet daughter Pami. She said my body is purging itself of all that is unwanted, cleaning house so to speak. So my perspective changed. I now feel joyful! And I see my ordinary struggle to get through the day as less burdensome and more in the *necessary* column, getting all the clogged areas open. You can't control the wind, but you can adjust your sails...

Andi http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/smi/0201e05fca/06

[hutchibk]

My biggest joy in a long time was yesterday... I had pulled off of a main street to go around the block and bypass some traffic. I haven't been on that block in a couple of years. At the end of the block when I was turning right, in front of me I saw a sign indicating that a building there had been acquired by the local stage Theater group and was being turned into a children's stage, etc... and it was named in memory of my 5 yr old niece and 10 yr old nephew whom I lost 6 years ago in a private plane crash with my brother and sister-in-law. I was floored and so touched. I stopped, started wandering around the building. The artistic director drove up while I was looking around and upon hearing my story took me in to show me what they had planned for the space. It brought me to tears, but wonderful ones. I didn't know about it since it was envisioned by their bio-dad, (ex-husband of my sister-in-law) who is apparently involved with the theater group. I have only ever met him once, at the memorial service... but even though there had been rough feelings between all of the adults back before the crash, I must give kudos for memorializing my sweet Gracie and Andrew in such a sweet way. They were one of the biggest joys in my life. My crazy gray fur explosion (Maine Kook... ummm I mean, Coon, cat) Dasher, was Gracie's cat and the love of her life. He lives with me now and colors everyday in the most wonderful nutty goofball crazy cat ways possible... Gracie was my "apprentice cat whisperer" and my brother had a t-shirt made for her that said that. I still have that t-shirt and LOVE looking at it from time to time.

[BonnieR]

Oh, Brenda.........

[Jean]

My joy today was my husband and I played hooky and drove down to the shore....what a splendid day! We took tuna fish wraps and fresh sliced
tomatoes...hmmm and eat them on the beach...with the beauftiful waves
rolling in. Then a swim and long stroll on the beach...it just doesn't get any better.

Each day is gift and a joy!
Jean

[BonnieR]

Jean, you and I have made reference to "the shore" before. Was it the Jersey shore you visited? Most everyone else calls it "the beach".
Anyhow, wherever it was, I want to go!!!
I settled for a friend coming over with nice cheese and a tomato and we grilled sandwiches which is one of the few things I have a taste for. Now I am wiped out from that simple exertion! But it was a great visit..

[harrie]

Want to share something with all of you, something someone read to me recently that I would like to share:

If you let go a little bit, you will find a little happiness.
If you let go a lot you will find a lot more happiness.
If you let go completely, you find peace.

Maryanne

[PinkGirl]

Wow Brenda, that is amazing. What a beautiful thing to happen when you're trying to dodge some heavy traffic. You brought tears to my eyes.

[madubois63]

Maryanne - Nice poem - so true!
Jean - Sounds wonderful. I love the beach and am so happy that I live in the middle of an Island. I am 5 minutes away from water to the north and 20 minutes away on the south. The south is best because of the ocean - I will be doing more lunches on the beach as the weather cools. I love fall!!! Glad you had a good time and played hookie!!!
Brenda - Your post made me cry! Sometimes, a different way is the best way! You were meant to see the building at that time. I have taken to turning down different roads lately (literally), and it has been so much fun discovering new things!
Andi - try an herbal steam. If you don't have any fresh herbs, use any herbals teas you have in the house. Just boil a pot of water, pour in sturdy bowl and place towel over head/bowl to catch the steam. Breath deep!! If you don't have teas, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, allspice, lemons and/or apples work good too (any or all). feel better...
Emelie: Good for you - have a great time!!!!
Almost forgot my joy (besides being here to even write this...) Taking my daughter to the taping of a show/interview with her favorite band on Tuesday. It airs tonight, so I will relive that joy of seeing her so happy later. Seeing a free movie (the Painted Veil) with friends yesterday. Good lab work! The weather/no humidity/opening all the windows and shutting the ac's off. Driving with the windows down, the sun roof open and the music blasting. Food. Sales. Flowers. This thread and board!!! Love to you all...
Maryann

[Jean]

Bonnie,
Yes, it is the Jersey shore....LBI/and/Spring Lake..those are two of the
beaches....we visit.

I live in No. West Bergen Cty...and in this area they call it the shore...what area were you from?

Hugs,
Jean

[Jean]

Brenda,
What an uplift ! Loved your Joy - thank you for sharing.

Hugs,
Jean

[TriciaK]

This is a wonderful thread--let's keep it going! I read it all each time I sign in and it still gives me joy to read all your posts. Joy for me is living every day with my very best friend, my wonderful husband. Often we just sit (or lie) and talk and talk---you would wonder what we have to talk about at our age, but we can never seem to get enough of sharing thoughts. We have decided that our whole concept of time has changed. We used to have a very busy psychological practice where we rushed from one hour to the next, giving all we had to people in pain, sometimes not eating dinner until 9 or 10 at night. Now we are semi-retired, and we give time and energy to each other and to our large family. At first we felt guilty, not practicing our profession full-time. But since cancer and heart surgeries we have learned to take one day at a time and relish it fully. Just going for a ride is a joy because we are together. We have moved to a smaller home in a smaller city, in a senior neighborhood. We have never had such caring neighbors, and if you think a senior neighborhood would be boring, you don't know this bunch! They have at least one party a month, usually more, and they are actively involved in so many things, and so much fun to be around! Most of them are professional people who have travelled and served all over the world---I often think what a wonderful book could be written about their lives and wisdom and good humor. We are at the age where we don't worry anymore about what we want to be when we grow up---we've grown up and now we're in our second childhood and enjoying every day we are alive. Most of you are younger but your posts say you are also realizing the joy of little things and relishing every day of life. I believe we are here in this earthlife to learn the things we are learning, by whatever experiences come to us. This earthlife is the only school where we get the tests first, and then we learn the lesssons! Thank you for all that you are and share. I truly appreciate and love you. Hugs, Tricia

[hutchibk]

You are a JOY! I just love you Tricia... thank you for sharing with us. Your posts are like mother's milk for me!

[tricia keegan]

Oops that should have been beach walking!!
I feel so much joy when I walk on the beach near my home I'm fortunate I get to do this most days. The sound of the waves lapping in with the birds flying above just gives you such a sense of beauty and joy to be alive.
My kittens playing and cuddling up to me for a pet always make me smile too, for me it really is all these little things that I appreciate so much more since diagnosis:)

[juanita]

My joy for today was that we finally got the check from insurance for my wrecked car. The one I had been looking at was now gone, so I took my husband's pick-up and he got a mini-van.

[Sandy in Silicon Valley]

Okay,

As a card-carrying iconoclast, I don't like these happy- happy- joy- joy la-la land pressures to put a smiley face on living with Stage IV bc...

But today, tho quiet, was a good day, can't deny it: after 3 doses of Macrobid antibiotic, my bladder infection is going bye-bye (I thought it was a prolapsed uterus - OY! - TMI on the web!) and I don't have to pee every 10 minutes; Bruce and I just had banana-mint chocolate mudslides & chips & dip for dinner - YUM; I booked my flight, hotel & car rental to see a close cyberfriend in Austin TX in October; things are lookin' up (need-to-pee-wise) for taking the two little boys (for whom I was Child Advocate & am now just another adult admirer) to the Fiestas Patrias in downtown San Jose tomorrow - parade & music/dance performances to mark Dia de Independencia!

All-in-all, I'll take it!

Sandy in Silicon Valley

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: Although hubby was tired yesterday I recieved 'THE CALL". My nurse advocate called saying that the Tykerb was in and that she would stay until 6 pm to make sure I had time to come and pick it up. That little peach was suppposed to leave at 4 pm!!!!

Then on the way home, on all the highway overpasses there were old and young people picketing the war. They all had signs that said things like "Send Our Boys Home" or "Honk If You Want To End The War". Well Ed did honk and so did 60 or 70 other people. It made me cry a bit as I felt so united with these strangers.

It surely made us feel ONE with the rest of the world. Honking will not get our boys home, but it certainly let us all know we are in this together and UNITED WE STAND!!!

Please send our boys home soon, their families need them!!

Believe51

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

It is a joy to read that young and old pp were out picketing the war (in Marie's post)!
I AM HONKING MY HORN RIGHT NOW. Can you hear it??? I WANT OUR KIDS HOME! I DON'T WANT ANY MORE TO GO OVER, OR BACK!! I don't know what success looks like, but I don't want to wait for it to come (which my instincts tell me could honestly take another few millennia!). I want us out of Iraq. Afghanistan is another issue. The cost of lives is enough reason for me to feel this way. But the cost in $$$$, which we do NOT have to spend, is infuriating.

Forgive my political rant. With New Orleans still in need of so much aid, w/the medical mess of Medicare denying patients all over the place, w/so many places to put our tax $$$ HERE in the USA, I cannot condone staying in Iraq.

We are in this together, and I add my horn blast to be heard by Washington loud and clear.http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/objcts/dead-signhttp://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/peeps-emt/senti/clips/clip1-peacehttp://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/peeps-emt/senti/clips/hands-clip
Andi

AndiBB@aol.com

[vickie h]

My joy came today in the form of an email from Andi, which I promptly emailed to 15 others. The love in her email reached gently around my shoulders like a warm fluffy comforter on a dark snow-filled eve. And the sky became golden and new again. Thank you sweet sister, and I, too am on the streets against the war. If human rights were the real issue, we would be in Africa, New Orleans and anywhere the call of poverty or genocide is received.

Love and much, much peace, Vickie

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: I was lucky enough to get a deep tissue massage from my boy who is too fatigued to even do his walks. He seen me walking and knew my back was out again. As I continued my house work he called me over and just when I was going to say:


WHATTTTTTTT!!!! (LOL, never talk to him like that but sometimes I think it...hehehe!!)

.....he made me lie down for his famous back rub!! It felt like the normalcy I yearn for each day. After the rubdown I thanked God for being alive and for having the chance today to love my favorite person another day!!>>Believe51

[marshbird]

Waking up this morning to the sound of rain on the roof. What a perfect time to cuddle with my husband and count my blessings!

[lilyecuadorian]

Just come from my Doc and he said 2 spot look stable ...no evidence of D so he said is a good news ....he give appoiment for the next 3 months ...but I got some fever I dont know why ??? 100.2 so I did call my Doc and leave the message ...thanks for read ...

[chrisy]

Well, it is a joy to hear YOUR joys! Lily, how wonderful to get a good scan...and Marie, even better than the massage was getting a feeling of normalcy. And I feel joy for Ed, that he was able to nurture YOU for a change. And Sandy, glad to hear you can stand to read the "joys" column and that you have a little more "time" to attend to more fun things. I tell you, I know I'm getting old when I know where the best public restrooms from Santa Cruz to Tioga Pass.

My joy today is that I'm NOT in the office, and taking my day for me. Of course, I've already checked and send email to work since I'm just not ready for COMPLETE withdrawl.

It's a sort of fall like day here, clouds in the sky (maybe GASP even some rain in the forecast) and I'm looking forward to going out in the world on a weekday. Maybe shopping...maybe go hang out at the coffee shop...maybe work out or go for a swim or in the sauna or jacuzzi. OK, maybe NOT work out LOL but the jacuzzi sounds good!

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

Brenda, First chance I've had to respond to your post about your *accidental* happening upon the building named in loving memory of your niece and nephew. What a joy to come upon such a thing! I, of course, believe that COINCIDENCES are messages. I think you were led to that street, my your brother and sister-in-law. They are with you. You can't see them the way you see Dasher but they are just over your shoulder.

My Chase and Scamper are (Maltese) doggies but I talk to them all the time, as if they can understand me. We rescued our boys when they were 4 mnths old and Chase was especially sick with a devastating case of mange (mites were attacking his immune system and he was losing his battle). I confess -- I am a dog whisperer. The vet was amazed by his turnaround. I used the meds and some supplements (taking a chance, guessing at dosage, like for infants) and I sent healing, loving energy to him daily. Our boys are 4 yrs old now and happy and perky and playful and full of kisses and waggy tails and fun ways of expressing themselves. They are a joy.

My daughter has a Maltese the same age as ours and an old Bichon. Dibs and Dash!

I love the T-shirt story. The tragedy you endured must feel enormously painful, yet from my perspective I see that these people who truly loved one another are still together. And I believe they want you know they are okay and more than just in your heart forever.

Your post was just beautiful. I wish you tears of joy often! And love (and health) and laughter always....
Andi

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: For me there are just simple joys that add up to make my life glorious. I want to just express my complete joy for all of you and your support. I recieved a phone call from Kareng to tell me she talked to Nicola's husband. I know she was going to post this update but how we all pull together to follow through on questions or concerns really makes me all warm & fuzzy.

You all make me so proud to know you My Fine Warrior Sisters. It is my complete joy to have you in our lives and has made our journey a memorable one (Ah yeahhhhh....like I could forget if I wanted to!!! LOL). I have a piece of all of you deep within my heart and keep you there protected from the evils.

I LOVE YOU ALL!!>>Believe51

[hutchibk]

My SE (spousal equivalent) loved the breakfast tacos I made this morning. THAT was a joy, as he is a reaaalllly picky eater. Glad there wasn't any cat hair in it...LOL - as he is one who could pick fly poop out of pepper, if you know what I mean. OMG, he is a nut. A wonderful nut, but sometimes quite a tough customer...

[Believe51]

Well it is my joy today to tell you Brenda:

It takes one to know one!! LOL! And you cannot blame him nor the cat!! Hehehe!! Speaking of, is crazy man still sleeping in the sink you bought for him??>>Believe51

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

Joy today was receipt of a voluminous genealogy full of juicy details going way back in my Mother's family. Great read. What a creative, brainiac group of prof's, authors, and award winners.

Details from newspapers in the mid nineteen hundreds were full of such charm and breeding. No sound bytes but rather carried you away to the time deliciously.
Andi

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: I had so much joy today that I felt if I did not let some of it out I would POP (guess you could call it 'tonight's joy'..LOL)!! My joy today is that my husband's MRI said we are on the road to claiming our miracle. Not only does he not have any more added mets, the ones he has have shrunk in size from 5-9mm to 2 mm!!!!! News we were not expecting for a few months so you can imagine the damage we are going to witness then!!!! The hard work this man has accomplished in the last year has finally taken a sharp turn for the better (at one point he did have his markers at almost normal). These nasty cancer cells are finally getting the hint that they are up against My Mighty Oak and they do not stand a chance.

So take that ya nasty little bug-looking cancer cells with X's for your eyes and your legs up, I can see you now and I like you much better GONE!! You may have outsmarted our first chemo plan but you will not survive this. You are not wanted here and never were.

Now go away, we are scheduled for a dance with NED & friends are expecting us (You girls know who you are!!). You are interferring now and have been for over a year. And while you are at it, leave my friends ALONE!!

Usually my 'Today's Joy' I try to leave the C word out of it, guess you can see why I could not resist this time!! So glad I am saving for the spa, I am going to need it when we are through with this one. Thanks for loving us girls and we are so happy we get to tell you some positive news about Ed's journey for a change!!

I Always Believed!!!>>Believe51

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

Today's joy was an email I received that included this priceless KIDS' LETTERS TO GOD. My heart is smiling. Wanted yours to also glow...


"Dear God, Instead of letting people die and haveing to make new ones why don't you just keep the ones you got now?"

Precious, no...?!


Andi http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/thghts/smile

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

More KIDS LETTERS TO GOD... Dear God, Sometimes I think about you even when I am not praying Elliot

ME TOO... I am one with the Universe.
Andi

[fauxgypsy]

My joy today was hearing an unexpected knock on my front door and finding my youngest grandchildren ( Shannan-6 and Austin-9) there. They thought they were supposed to ride the bus to my house today so they did. We called their mother, fed them a snack, and romped with them, Dale did anyway, they play too rough for me right now, and had a great time with them until Athena picked them up. We see them often but it was fun to see them so unexpectedly. They were so full of energy.

Leslie

[BonnieR]

My joy today was receiving my 4th of 6 TCH infusions! Past the half way mark! The dietician wandered by and told me I needed to gain weight and instead of the low fat stuff that I keep buying (old habits die hard!) she said in addition to drinking Ensure I should be putting Haggan Daz in it for milkshakes! Welll, a few minutes later a drug rep who was trying to curry favor there, came along with a freeze container giving away Haggan Daz chocolate covered ice cream bars!!! lol I told him he must be a gift from God. He said he was God's rep on earth. (More like a drug rep on earth! lol) Then a differernt rep brought Jamba Juice smoothies!! Boy, Wed is a much better day than Tues (my regular day) around there!
My white count is in the low normal range. Very low. But still normal
So, a good day all in all.
And I am recovering from the joy of several days of visits from friends who cared enough to fly here to see me. I am blessed.

[tousled1]

My Joy today was reading good news on Esther's GammaKnife and Joy's scans. Also the good news on Ed's MRI (Believe51 - Marie) And Bonnie, now you only have 2 more treatments left -- you can do that standing on your head! Sure wish they passed around ice cream at my infusion center. I must admit I prefer Ben & Jerrys over Haggen Daz but I certainly wouldn't turn it down. Nothing makes me happier than to hear good test results as it offers encouragment for everyone. You women/men are really quite teh warriors!

[Vanessa]

I am also glad to hear good test results from my sisters and brothers and this board. I also enjoy the things that give each of you joy. My joy today was seeing my 3 month old granddaughter smile and talking to an old friend that I have not seen since high school. This illness has prompted me to get in touch with friends that I have not talked to in a long time and I love that feeling. Thanks for being there for me and I will be praying for all of you tonight and everynight.

[BonnieR]

Tousled, they must have heard you too. I later saw Ben and Jerry's icream cones being passed out. And popsicles!! What a surreal day.

[Believe51]

"Today's Joy" was going to an appointment with Ed at the Infusion Unit just built, a building all on its own. We loved the old unit but this is a gorgeous place with lots of room to get treatments.

Each time we go to the area which is near the Imaging Department at the hospital we see a chipmunk. It is a pleasure that we see him all the time!! As you know Ed and myself name our wilderness friends so when we refer to them we know what we are talking about. I decided to name him Chester the Chipmunk. A day after naming him I realized...hey how perfect of a name!!! 'CHEST'er the chipmunk has helped us on our journey since we started in September 2006, we constantly see him. He is our BREAST CANCER MASCOT and really has made going to the hospital an anticipated event.....are we going to see Chester??

I am really hoping that PinkGirl will allow Tiptoe to visit with us for a bit. I have heard that chipmunks and mice can get to be great friends and Chester is very lonely since we only go to infusion once a month instead of twice a week. Please let me know when and if he can visit PinkGirl, Chester is in dire need of new friends. I will treat him like he is my own. I know he does not like the cold so I will make every effort to make him comfortable here in Little Rhody (Rhode Island). Please say yes. No pressure but I kinda let Chester know he will have relatives visiting as soon as their schedule clears up.

Sending giggles and laughter your way>>Believe51

[R.B.]

A bird singing so sweetly outside my little working space. :)

RB

[BonnieR]

I glanced outside into our courtyard this afternoon and saw a gift bag with a pink balloon attached. Seems a neighbor had attended a breast cancer walk and brought home the "goodie bag" for me!! It contained lots of little samples of skin products, a pink ribbon pin and tee shirt and several discount coupons for restaurants!!! The enclosed note said he did the walk in memory of his mother who died of breast cancer and in hope of my recovery. How wonderful was that?

[juanita]

I've had several this weekend, starting with Friday night. Our local high school football team got to play in the Peyback Classic hosted by Peyton Manning of the Colts down at the RCA Dome. We beat Tipton by 2 points. And then on Saturday my 22 yr. old son moved out, sad but happy time. And today the Colts won again and my 18 yr old son and his girlfriend moved into the bigger room my older son just vacated. Long story on her living here.

[chrisy]

Bumping this up...We've had so many "good reports" lately...lots of joy.

My joy today is that I DIDN'T cut the end of my finger off when my knife slipped while cutting potatoes. Good thing I have fingernails!

Also, we're going out to a ridiculously expensive restaurant tonight with friends - I hope the meal will live up to expectations and reputation, but at least I know our friends will! This restaurant is so "out there" that the corkage fee is about double what I usually pay for a bottle of wine!

TBFBD
(this better f---ing be delicious!)

[Mary Jo]

Thanks for bumping this up Chrisy. You are right - there has been many good reports as of late. Me being one of them who had a good report. However, that being said, I will say that I find joy "almost" daily in just living life. Life is precious and boy don't we all know how short it is. The extra specials blessings along the way make it even more joyful but I try to find joy in each and every breath.

Thanks for bumping it up Chrisy. YOU dear one, are also a joy!!!!

Mary Jo

[chrisy]

And being able to call them and say "you DO realize this will be the most expensive meal of your life..."and find out they had NO IDEA...in time to cancel the reservation, and make another one at Ristorante Plan B which is withing stumbling distance to a reliable british pub...

Getting an entire meal for less than a corkage fee....

priceless!

[lilyecuadorian]

My joy today went to church (for the Holly Mass) and pray pray and I did write on a book where say "for petition to our Lord and of course my family and my dear her2support for good health and now I feel much better more light my body so lets make this happen !!good health for all of us priceless lol

[lilyecuadorian]

today my joy was that we went to Renaissance Festival (14th annual north carolina) and artisan marketplace it was a lot of fun and a lot of dust but it was very entertaning

[fauxgypsy]

Rain. And more rain. It has been so dry here all year and now in the last three days we have gotten about two inches by my rain gauge. My little baby garden is slurping it up. It sounds so good to hear rain on the roof as I sit at the computer in my studio.

Leslie

[Mary Anne in TX]

I'm so grateful today for having a granddaughter who so often explodes with excitement for all the little things in life! She's such a great reminder of how important it is for me to remember to find joy in the small wonders of the day! I'm truly blessed to have her.

[KRISS]

Well, there is nothing more joyful than a puppy, Puppy kisses, puppy play, watching Gwendolyn run around the house and yard. Now you have to imagine her legs are only about an inch long. She is so darn cute. With my bad mammo last Tuesday and the upcoming surgery she has kept my mind off of it and my heart full of love! She is the best medicine!

[dhealey]

Joy yesterday was walking in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer even though I was unable to do the 26 mile walk on Saturday due to having a MRI of the brain (still waiting for results) I did the 13 mile walk. There were over 1800 walkers and the money raised was over 2.1 million dollars. It was awesome and made me forget about the possible mets I might have in my brain. Husband was so sweet, he was at every cheering station and was there at the finish line cheering me on!

[Kathy S in Tokyo]

This week's joy; my daughter brought a beautiful stray kitten home and we're going to keep it. It's a "she" and she has grey and darker grey stripes, white socks and a a white bib. She still has blue eyes but that may change as she's still only a bitty little thing (just a pound!). She has plumped out a bit in the week that she's been with us due to the regular supply of food and kitten milk. I took her to the vet for a check up and she got a clean bill of health and much admiration.

[BonnieR]

What is the kitten's name????

[Kathy S in Tokyo]

My 10 year old daughter was so excited about the arrival of a pet and so anxious to have a turn holding one that she kept shouting "Where's the dog? Gimme the dog!" so we decided to call our pretty little kitty the Japanese equivalant of Spot, the puppy from a popular children's picture book. Her name is "Koro." Koro is easier for my kids to say than Spot as they speak in Japanese more than 90% of the time these days. Koro already has us all under control and is happy to play or sleep with any of us.

[jones7676]

My joy was that I was well enough to go to Chicago and spend four days with my daughter and her hubby- including a tour of the condo they just acquired. I did not want to leave her and come back home. I am lonesome for her already. The weather was a lot warmer there than it is here in Upper Michigan too!

[madubois63]

Today is a special JOY for me!! My son is 18. Simple as that...He was 11 when I was first diagnosed; and like everyone else that gets cancer, I thought I wouldn't make it to now. Last year, I was in the transplant ward 8 hours away and very sad that I was missing his birthday. Today, I am baking his favorite cake, cooking his favorite meal and VERY happy to be here to be at his beck and call!!! :)

Love to you all...Maryann

[Mary Jo]

And I received much JOY after reading your post Maryann. Praise God. A true blessing and joy, no doubt.

Thanks for giving me JOY from reading this JOYFUL post. I thank God with you.

Mary Jo

[harrie]

Well happy, happy, for joy, for joy, BIRTHDAY Maryann!!! I send you lots of birthday wishes!!!
Aloha,
Maryanne

[hutchibk]

Tonight I went to the 'First Birthday' for a very dear friend who had a successful heart transplant exactly one year ago! She is doing wonderfully. Talk about joy. Wow, it doesn't get any better than that!

[chrisy]

Today it is raining in Santa Cruz - I mean with thunder and lightening and everything! It's so exciting, and it smells so good. Being from the midwest originally, I miss "real" weather!

[Mary Jo]

Today's joy.................a healthy handful of pink breast cancer M&M's. I'm figuring, hey.........they are breast cancer M&M's..................health food and no calories. Right?

Can't blame a girl for trying!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Enjoyed every last one.

Mary Jo

[chrisy]

Marejo - are they at least DARK chocolate?

[weezie1053]

Today, I purchased a one-inch curling iron from Wally-Mart.

Joy to the world,
God has given me curls,
Joy to the new hair now that it is all there...
Joy to you and me!

Louise

[Vi Schorpp]

My grandson Ange (just turned 9) was so precious last evening. He was in my bedroom helping me make up my bed after i had finished laundering sheets, etc. He took my pink music box with butterflies/crystals all over it and played the music (Wind Beneath my Wings)...then said, "Boy am I glad you're a survivor -- I'd be pretty bored without you here."

[hutchibk]

My joy today was a hilarious email from my oncologist... a man who simultaneously keeps me alive and then slays me with his sense of humor.

[BonnieR]

I thought we might activate this thread for Thanksgiving. I had planned on spending the holiday alone, which is fine. But our brother-in-law phoned and has offered to drive 2 hours to pick me (and the DOG) up and bring me to their house for the day. A 4 hour round trip! And he will be doing the cooking after we get back! What a blessing he is. I was so moved by this gesture. It filled me with joy.
Even better, my husband comes into LA later that day, so he will be able to join us all and drive me home in the morning!
Alot to be thankful for.......

[hutchibk]

My joy today is HER2Support.org! Happy Thanksgiving!

[Believe51]

I smiled at a stranger while at Mom's Oncology appointment before she went to see the doctor. She had that worried look on her face before entering, after looking at me she smiled back with tears. I thought that was the greatest gift of the day until she came out. When she walked by I mouthed to her "I was thinking of you".

She and her husband stopped to talk to Mom, Dad and myself. Not only is their best friend a Male Breast Cancer Warrior, her and her husband are cancer warriors too.

Today's Joy: A stranger hugged me (and I let her...I am a germ-phobe even before treatments). She kissed my face and told me I made a difference in her life and she would never forget me. I was just being me but I made a difference in a strangers life. It is a joy to even be here to do so!!

[harrie]

Believe51, that was really, really nice reading your post. I think some of the best joy received is when you make a difference like that for someone else....and the joy lasts so long too for more then one person which is great!
Harrie

[Kathy S in Tokyo]

The local day care center class of 2 year olds went for a walk to the library for storytime. Eight two year olds and two caregivers, all holding hands, were waiting for the traffic light to change and attracting the attention of a few grandmotherly and grandfatherly types who all insisted on accompanying the group safely across the busy intersection. Once across, one of the enchanted women thought she'd make the excursion a little fun for the children and took about 20 seconds to sing out brightly and point to and wave into the big overhead mirrors at the entrance to a big store on the corner. "Look everybody! You can see yourselves up there!" "Look! Look! Aren't you all beautiful?!" They were all beautiful but I wonder if they ended up going to the library at all...all those angels holding hands and smiling and laughing up at themselves...

[Marlys]

The smiles on the faces of babies in grocery carts!
Love & hugs,
Marlys

[chrisy]

OK, I threatened on another thread to do this, and I always follow through on idle threats!

All of you, but ESPECIALLY BILL today are my joy. I think everyone should take a big dose of Bill posts every day because giggling releases all those good endorphins into your bloodstream and is very healthy for you. Plus, it's really fun to have my husband say "what the heck are you laughing about - I thought you were on a cancer website!"

OK, hutchibk and pink girl....you, too!

[Bill]

Oh my God, Chrisy! You have become the joy in my day! I don't even know what you're talking about, but you have made my day. I'm smiling like crazy. Love, Bill

[chrisy]

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA....

I guess you bring to mind another joy.

Day by day, minute by minute we (that means ALL of us human beans) are passing love, laughter and joy to each other without us even knowing it!

[juanita]

As much as I love my 1 yr old granddaughter, my joy for today is that she went home today. I am worn out!!!!!

[Believe51]

'Today's Joy' was reading Juanita's post. Soooo true!! LOL>>Believe51

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: On our Oncologist visit his Doctor said:

"Ed, you can now consider the glass half full instead of half empty. We have a while to go but it appears that you fianlly have a grasp on this cancer now!!"

Believe51

[chrisy]

"finally got a grasp"....priceless

[Believe51]

I am never late for work, nor do I take time out that is NOT cancer-related. I also have never used an alarm clock until very recently. Yesterday I woke up to go to the bathroom, made a Tumeric Tea, jumped back under the covers on the couch...(cause it is NOT spring yet...hehehe). I went so far as to pick out a movie. Then another. Fell asleep for 30 minutes. Put the digital guide on to watch yet another movie. The day was all mine and boy was I enjoying it. That was until I seen that it was......

Tuesday @ 11am!!! I was suppossed to be working. I quickly ran to the phone to call my boss to tell him how sorry I was. Last week I stayed home 4 days to stay with Ed and nurse him better, not like I needed more time off. Embarrassedly I cried talking to my boss, who has been a total peach since the start, he always told me to do whatever I needed but DO NOT QUIT PLEASE.

Today's Joy: Although my boss laughed so hard, I found little humor in it all. The more he laughed the more I cried. It was then that I realized that it may be time to go on an antidepressant. See, even good came out of this.

PS: I still do not think this was funny. What an airhead I am. Not that I can laugh at!!>>Believe51

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: Watching the Lunar Eclispe last night. When I looked up at it I knew it was the same thing some of you were seeing!! Made me feel close to you all!! Love you>>Believe51

[Hazel Joyce]

A male cardinal at my kitchen window brought me joy today! I was able to snap a couple of pics before he flew off.

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f188/jyc283/000_2006.jpg

[Andrea Barnett Budin]

CARDINALS ARE A SPECIAL JOY!

Hazel's pics:

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f188/jyc283/000_2005.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f188/jyc283/000_2006.jpg
HOPE THIS WORKS... JUST TRYING TO HELP...

[lilyecuadorian]

a special joy is found Lani post about ..the magic coktail that Dr Osbourne is saying about start a new trial !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !

[StephN]

- those heralds of spring began visiting my birdbaths last week. Now we have the Stellar's Jays and many other songbirds returning to our back yard.

The hummingbirds were here ALL through the winter this year. Means the hardy ones are nesting nearby, as they came to feed EVERY day this winter. In fact I need to replenish the sweet water again!

[Believe51]

Ed and I were at chemo on Friday, the day was snow-driven with a full sky you could not see, only smell. As the powerful snow fell in droves we starred out the window from our chairs. Luckily we live rather close to our infusion lab so we could honestly say we were enjoying it. It was A/C day with the works as well and our busy chemo nurse was scurrying about gathering supplies.

Ed reached out for his 'cup' that was not there and he knew it (pretending). Once a week he gets a specialty coffee from the hospital on the same grounds. It was his way of telling me that I am late with his treat and I should be going now. So I ask him, "Are you asking me for your coffee?? You actually want me to risk my life in this blizzard to get you a warm beverage??" (Our overly busy nurse busted in to say that she would put on a fresh pot on for him.) That only made us laugh more!!

His reply: "Hey listen.....YOU ATE CHEERIOS ALL WEEK AND I HAD TO WRITE A REPORT!!!!" (quote from Cheerios commercial). With remarks like that I quickly grabbed my coat and did my own scurrying!!

Chuckling I had to call Bill to remind him that I was in the mist of a blizzard. I called him with snowflakes covering the white hair that has started to emerge in the last year. I purposely stood there allowing myself to become one with the snow, knowing deep inside that spring really is around corner so embrace this now. Fall and winter are my very favorite seasons and I feel the best during them too. Enjoying the beauty I admitted to our Dear Bill that even though I love the snow, please, please.....get back to me when it is close to spring. Of course I had a hardy laugh with Bill also!

And another joy is seeing and hearing the bird stories. Thanks Steph and Hazel.

Love You All!!

Believe51

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: Last night Mighty Oak trimmed my hair and that has not happened for many months. Do not worry friends, he has been practicing using his hands (guitar/drawing, etc) so they do not shake like they used to.....LOL!!>>Believe51

[hutchibk]

My joy today is hearing Marie's and Ed's joy!

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: My son called me this morning and greeted me like this...."Good Morning Beautiful". Nothing is better than that from my special buddy!!>>Believe51

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: Getting phone calls this weekend from Karen and Kate to let me know of their updates. Truely we are all blessed to have these spectacular family members in our lives. Thanks girls for knowing that I needed that!!>>Believe51

[madubois63]

Today's joy...Angel Flight America for flying me to Buffalo (an 8 hour drive otherwise) for my follow-up appointment this week and American Cancer Society's Hope Lodge for giving me a beautiful place to stay for free...

[lilyecuadorian]

Thanks my Lord I got my tykerb and Xeloda ....waiting since Friday ...all this weekend took my breath away the waiting time but ....and I got it back ....I just start 2 hours ago ...

[Believe51]

Twice I postponed running errands in the downpouring rain and almost changed plans to the next day. Being spontaneous I waited most of the day and chose to 'just do it'!!.....

Today's Joy: Bumping into two sadly missed friends at two different places. If I would have not decided to go when I did I would have missed these two people I have not seen for a few years and think about often. What a great way to experience joy.>>Believe51

[Mary Jo]

My joy comes from reading all of your joys here. I don't too often visit this section - just don't think about it I guess.

So today I thought I'd read a few. I couldn't stop reading.

So, thanks for giving me joy by reading of yours. My heart is happy because yours is also.

Love & Blessings from above,

Mary Jo

[StephN]

Lily, I am so glad for you getting the new treatment pills. Just remember to take the Acidophilis with Bifidus to help control the very loose stools.

SPRING IS HERE!

My JOY today was having a crew of three very nice guys come and trim all our hedges and bushes and prune the trees! We try our best to keep the things we can reach at ground level managed, but when you have 20-25-year-old landscaping it can get overgrown pretty quickly.

They hauled away three large truckloads, which I was glad to see GO! From 9 to 4:30 they worked like beavers, with a short lunch break.

Now I can get to my strawberry and raspberry beds and one "wild" corner that needs cleaning out.

I have already been enjoying working outside since the last two years I had trouble keeping my head down due to my complications from the brain met surgery and my clotted vein last year. Working in my gardens makes me feel more NORMAL! Takes my mind off all the health stuff ...

[Believe51]

Like a robot I headed to the bathroom for the daily grooming tasks. Still half asleep I went to the sink and to my greatest pleasure this is what I found...

Today's Joy: Finding shaving stubble in the sink!! He never used to leave that mess there and I am so thankful he did. Not only is he still in treatment but he has enough stubble to provide me with a bit of what once was.....and what we are aiming to achieve once more!!>>Believe51

[Bill]

My joy today is reading Believe's post about whiskers in the sink, and, a big and, so glad that our special Angels Jean and Becky have flown in to post.

[Kathy S in Tokyo]

Today's Joy - My eight year old son baked banana bread to give to a girl in his 2nd grade class as a "Valentine's Day - the next month" gift. The Japanese twist on Valentine's Day is that women give chocolate to men and then the men reciprocate a month later on a manufactured holiday called "White Day." My little man reminded me to make sure we had ingredients so he could make something after school today so he won't disappoint the little girl tomorrow.

[Mary Jo]

My joy this morning.............waking up healthy, happy and surrounded by God's love. Being able to "visit" each of you through this site and to be able to pray for each other.

Love to each of you today....

Mary Jo

[Vic]

First, I found joy looking at Hutchibk's heart-shaped cloud photo. It is absolutely beautiful...did you take it yourself? Can't recall if you mentioned it under a different thread.

Plus, being a cat lover and owned by two cats, the cat-in-the-sink story gave me chuckles.

One more joy is being able to go to Sonoma this weekend to celebrate my Dad's 80th birthday for a destination birthday party with the family. I just spoke to my twin sister and nephew minutes ago and they just got off the Alcatraz tour in S.F. We're flying up tomorrow to meet them.

Have a beautiful day filled with little joys and big joys.

XO,

Vic Z

[hutchibk]

My joy today is hearing from Kate (tousled 1) that she is home and doing so much better.

(I got the pic of the cloud from a friend who had it on their computer. Don't know where they got it, but I made them email it to me immediately!)

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: I have the chance to love my husband for another day. To me there is nothing better than that!!>>Believe51

[norwegian]

Joy is that spring is close, and I can work in my friend's green house.
Joy is that my son wants to come with us to our cottage for one week.
Joy is that he is doing well and has found his way. I love him!

[Karen W]

Joy today is that my 15 year old daughter and I had a great day together on Sunday and that night, before she went to bed, we shared stories and mine made her laugh until her stomach hurt.

I love my teenager so much.

Karen

[jones7676]

Joy is starting seeds even when there is still snow outside. I believe spring will appear someday here in the snowy U.P.

[Believe51]

"Today's Joy"....being able to enjoy another anniversary from the day Ed & I met. Fifteen years today with hopes for many many more.>>Believe51

[Believe51]

When travelling to my Mother-in-Law's new home about 40 miles away (whaahh, want her closer) we enjoyed the sun, some great music and the best company. Not much traffic on these back roads so it was funny to see someone behind us and someone in the opposite lane. Both stopped suddenly and remained there.

Today's Joy: The reason was to let a gynormous and beautiful white duck cross the road. I looked at Ed and replied "Now THAT is why you are taking treatment!!"

Taking treatment allows us to buy the time to be able to view these little things in life. These little things add up to be the wonderful stories we call our lives!!

Believe51

[Believe51]

This is the time of year when you can get your yearly 'Girl Scout Cookie's'. Not the most nutritious snacking but sweet memories from childhood fill my mind while enjoying them. I stepped out of my office for a moment and upon my return my boss was talking about our favorite cookie's, the peanut butter sandwich ones, yummy yummy. I asked him who was selling them this year and he said that I came too late, sales are over for the Girlscouts. This made me sad until....

Today's Joy: My boss told me he would share our fab faves with me if I was really really good. I did not need the pressure to be good and teased him about the pressure he places upon me daily (yeah right). I was sad to know that sales were over but felt it was for my own good.

On Sunday Mighty Oak felt like he was 'not even sick' so he took a ride by himself to try to go shopping and help with the errands he used to be able to do. He went to the bakery and came home so proud.

More Joy: So happy he replied: "Marie, I went to the bakery and brought you a cheese danish (more nutrition-ha). If you think that is a treat, look in the other bag."

Opening the bag slowly I peeked in. Laying alone in this bag was a single box of my fab faves from Girl Scouts!! He told me that the little girl that sold it to him was 'knee high to a grasshopper'.

I did cry as I reveled in the romance of it all AND the normalcy. Another reminder of the life that once was. And still is. This is just the type of thing he would always do before getting sick. So I was thankful for the gesture, the cookies themselves, the normalcy once more. But most of all I loved the fact that cancer can only steal so much and that some things it can never rob!! Take that Cancer...how 'ya like me now??>>Believe51

[juanita]

My joy is that I have one more day of work this week, after missing 2 days cuz I was sick, before we go on spring break and I get to have Dilly with me for a week.

[Believe51]

My Mother-in-Law called yesterday to speak with me!!

Today's Joy: She mentioned how much she loves me, what a special person I am. She thanked me for being a wonderful wife and for loving her son. Also mentioned how happy she was to have me as her Daughter-in-Law!

Then she asked me HOW I WAS!!

One of life's joys. I love her so very much>>Believe51

[harrie]

Wow Believe, that is awesome!!! If MY mother-in-law did that I would totally jump for joy and the probably die of a heart attack!!!

[Believe51]

Ed and I went for a ride last night since he felt so well and I thought that was a gift in itself.......

Today's Joy: We almost got into an accident and Ed stuck out his arms by force of habit to keep me in my seat. It is so nice to know that even fighting BC my boy is still able to protect me!!!

[lilyecuadorian]

Marie your angel name is ED

[Bill]

The Joy in my life today (and for quite some time) is this her2 website and all of the wonderful people I've met here. We all have our life-stories to tell, and I thank God that he has blessed me with a chance to be here and to know you and yours. Peace and love to all of you, Bill

[juanita]

My joy for today was seeing little Nicky again! i love babies!

[Mary Jo]

My joy today was meeting an elderly gentleman at the grocery store who I believe was an angel from Heaven. He was so awesome.....so happy....so kind.....talking to me (and we had never met before) about " how blessed we all have been even though life is hard and at times we don't see those blessings" Then he looked me in the eyes, with this huge smile on his face and said "I can tell you know what I am talking about because I see how happy you are by the sparkle in your eyes." I told him that I was happy he saw my happiness because sharing that happiness is what I live for. I told him that I too saw the "sparkle" in his eyes. (when I spoke though the whole grocery store heard because the man told me he couldn't hear well today because he forgot to put his hearing aides in - so I talked LOUDLY - hahahahahahaha)

Then he left................ he started walking towards the door and then he turned around and smiled and waved. It was awesome. I felt as if he was one of God's special angels walking this earth.

Just had to share with you all.

Mary Jo

[Jackie07]

He was. And you are, too.

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: Mighty Oak's 10TH and last treatment is today. Off to a chemo holiday, then.....look, to your left....could that be Ed & Marie dancing with NED next to the Honeysuckle and Jasmine???.....Oh, I think so.

Another joy will be us trying to get back even more normalcy. Believe me, life will be so different now. Well deserved My Hero>>Believe51

[Faith in Him]

Today's joy is that I get to see my sweet daughter in a play tonight. She has been practicing since January. I am so very proud and feeling very blessed to be here to see it.

[StephN]

Hubby took me to see Cirque du Soleil's CORTEO. They are here this month.

This is actually from a couple of days ago, but I am still thinking about it and seeing flashes of the performers and hearing the music.

Third time we have been over the years, and I am especially fond of the "Cirque" as I used to watch them on Bravo channel when I was down with my chemos a few years ago. These performers are always awe inspiring!

If they can perform those unthinkable feats, than I can darn sure beat this cancer!!!

[sassy]

My joy today---I got home from work (awards program and reception for graduates) about 11p.m., to find out I had won the grand prize in the local athletic booster drawing---$3,000!

[Bill]

my joy today is logging on and seeing the good news from Sassafras!

[Mary Anne in TX]

What joy, Sassy! We already knew that you were a winner though!!!! ma

[StephN]

Dear Sassy -
Your winnings is a perfect example of the old saw, "Good things come to those who wait."

We cancer survivors can add to that: ... wait, and survive to appreciate them!

I am sure you have some plans for this windfall, but hopefully you will indulge yourself with part of it.

[Jackie07]

Thank you for sharing about your good fortune. I was with my Mother-in-law when she won a scratch lotto prize of $20,000 about 15 years ago. I remember the excitement like yesterday.

[Believe51]

Today's Joy: Making it to work without hitting one red light. Amazing>>Believe51

[Believe51]

I woke up early to get to work early (so I can leave early Friday even though there is no chemo-sneaky sneaky! ha). While brewing coffee I heard the bedroom door open. To my surprise it was Mighty Oak getting up really really early.

Today's Joy: Getting a kiss goodbye from my favorite person in the whole world!!>>Believe51

[Believe51]

Sometimes I let my mind wander and go into my own little world. Today when I was visiting there I made a wish and just when I did...........

Today's Joy: A ladybug landed on my shoulder!! Does that mean my wish comes true????

[chrisy]

Hope so! I hope ALL your wishes come true!

[Believe51]

I went home early from work because I had a date with my sweet 4 year old granddaughter, Tia. It was going to rain so my son picked me up at home and dropped us off at the ice cream stand so we could get a head start on our festivities. Having a grown up conversation with this year old is a complete joy in itself but it only gets better the longer I know her.

I used to be a demanding Mom to some extent and seeing the ice cream melt all over herself was something that previously would have made me squirm (she was 'watching balloons'-hehehe!). I am a new and revised person now and although I reminded her to lick her cone, I basically ignored it. Her conversation was more important.

As we were finishing up our frozen treats she looked up to the sky and spoke like I was not even there and said: "Boy, I cannot wait to get back to Grandma Marie's home (never says 'house') so I can wash my hands!!"

Today's Joy: Was the look on her face when I pulled out a Ziploc bag full of wipes!! And Friends, I almost had to give her a full sponge bath right there she was sooooo sticky!!

I live to love another day>>Believe51

[StephN]

Great fun, Marie -
Can't wait till I read about the day that Might Oak take on the ice cream run himself. Hope his energy is on the upswing these days.

MY joy was getting my procedure to unblock my vena cava moved up one week to the 15th. Right - who is joyful about going into the hospital again?!?
Did not sleep well last night and then I tend to get back to sleep in the early morning and then sleep til 9am! Not a good pattern ...

Hubby asked me to buy some ice cream and I keep forgetting since we don't eat it. He thought it might cheer me up!

[juanita]

My joy for today is I got 2 year old Dilly today. She's here for a week so she can go to the Fourth of July parade with me on Friday. She doesn't like the fireworks though.