Friday, March 21, 2008

Good Friday, Good Life

"A day is huge: cancer continues to teach me to live life-not just go through it. When I wake each morning I know I have another day- a day is HUGE. It's always anyone's game! Never give up! There is always hope! Miracles are all around us!"
from the Journal of Christy Hartman Myers

Victoria here, guest blogging again - not because Ken is unable - but because I'm the Queen and I can do what I want! (including usurping the blog of a sleeping husband.) As we are in the midst of this glorious Easter season, Ken and I are both so thankful for our Good life. So on this Good Friday we would just like to share with you some of the Good things that have happened this week and some of the Good people who have touched our lives.

Good friends from the past....

The above quote comes from the journal of Christy Myers (pictured above, with her husband Joe) a long time family friend who left this life earlier than any of us would have liked. Christy was an incredible woman and is our exemplar for how to fight cancer. She did it with grace, humor and determination while continuing to live her life fully for 8 years after diagnosis. We can only hope to live up to her example.

Recently our son Matt put together a wonderful video to support Ken, which many of you participated in. We were so moved and touched by your kind words and loving encouragement. Thank you dear friends - this video came at a time when Ken needed it most.

Good new best friends . . .

As we've gone through this journey with cancer, we have made many new best friends. Cynthia and Reno are two of them. (pictured here at the radiation clinic) Reno is an Italian who loves an American burger. Cynthia met him while stationed with the Navy in Italy. She has been battling cancer for 16 years. They travel to Bethesda from Italy for her treatment. If you ask Cynthia how she's doing, she'll reply, "I'm doing great!" or "It is a wonderful day!" Cynthia says that there are only two things she can control during her fight with cancer - her attitude and what she says to God. We feel blessed that our paths have crossed with this couple - and I'm learning a little Italian on the side from Reno!


Good news in our family . . .

Our niece Megan chose today - Good Friday - as her wedding date! Today a couple will start a new life together. Although we can't be there, we are excited for them and wish them great joy and years of happiness as they start this journey together. It's quite a trip! (take it from someone who knows.)


While waiting for the elevator on Wednesday as we left Ken's chemo treatment, the Big Guy started crying. One of the medical staff asked if she could help him. I said, "No, he's okay, these are tears of joy." Two hours earlier our 8th grandchild, Tessa Grace Carlson (proud parents Matt & Mindy), arrived on planet Earth, healthy, strong and drop dead gorgeous! It was a really GOOD day!



Good Friday ...

Today Ken completed Chemo cycle! He only has one day of radiation left! Although the next two weeks will be difficult for Ken, this part of his treatment is almost over and we both feel pretty darn GOOD about that! As we start this Easter weekend, we will gather our family together and rejoice in this season of hope and renewal. We are grateful for our Savior, for our many great blessings, for good family, good friends and a good life.

See you on the high ground.

9 comments:

Jim said...

In spite of all of the bends in this road of life, we really do have much to be thankful for.
Thanks for sharing so much good news with us!
We hope you have a joy-filled Easter.

Anderson Zoo Keepers said...

It was time for happy, the sunshine and Easter to come around, and I'm really glad Tessa made her arrival safely too.

Eat some ham for me on Sunday, I think the kids and I are going Italian this Easter and pullin' a spaghetti fest!! :-) That's what they voted for - so majority rules.

Sue said...

YAY! The first beast in conquered! Way to go, Ken!

Nothin' like a new baby to bring joy and perspective to our lives. Although I still can't wrap my brain around Matt being a daddy and having facial hair!

Tobi said...

Congrats on the new addition. She is very adorable! I'm so glad that Ken is almost done with his treatments. I know he still has 'a long row to hoe' but I'm hoping the worst is behind him.

chelsea said...

Even though the road has not come to an end, I am so glad one piece is behind you. I hope you guys have a wonderful Easter!

Crazy Granny said...

What a darling grandchild and a darling niece. Best of all is that you're getting close to being finished with this part of your treatment. I Keep thinking what amazing people you and Victoria are, along with so many of the other brave folks that you have met. I feel that higher ground is near. Love Ya

Jim said...

Hope you had good Easter; know you are happy to be at end of this treatment cycle!

Apis Melliflora said...

Good people and good things are happening all around. The Lord is faithful.

The Queen Vee said...

GOOD job honey, you BEAT it....along with the help of a great medical staff. Now go forth and continue to live a very GOOD long life and appreciate all that you have been blessed with. GOD is great and he has been very GOOD to you. I love you.