[BonnieR]

I understand. I am new at this too. I have started a journal at the suggestion of the cancer center psychologist. She reminded me that it must not be " a chronolgy of suffering" however! But rather say "I feel....describe it....and this is what I learned about myself (in positive terms)". So I am trying to find the good in the bad. Additionally, after my recent first chemo, when the side effects cleared, I attended a series of 4 outdoor concerts. I dont know the last time I felt so alive and joyous and happy. Such a sense of well being! I knew it was because I was not taking the experience for granted. And was living every moment. I recorded that in my journal too so I can recall it on the down days....
And it gives me hope that there can be many more of the up times....and I am taking every invitation I am offered and making every one count. At least I forget I have cancer for that little while.... What else can we do???
In a log book the hospital gave me, there is a column to record symptoms, level of pain, nausea, etc etc. I added a space to rate my level of JOY too.