Physical Therapy and One Year Check-up

Good evening to all it's been awhile since I posted an update. My health has been improving over all, there's still some issue with the neuropathy and lymphedema, of which I've been going to therapy for the lymphedema, there will be six more treatments over the next three weeks which, if you were to ask me, "Do I feel it's helping?" Today would be a resounding NO, although I know it is, simply because I've gained some range of movement back and they discovered why I have some issues with my wrist and thumb. So, yes though painful, physical therapy is proving very helpful.

So to move on to my one year check-up I first want to back up to a conference I went to with our church in Connecticut. All of the speakers were very good and each spoke on How God helped them through their trial or journey. I'll be using some scripture that was shared there and that I've also studied while going through my journey.

Romans 5:1 "THEREFORE being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:"
In this verse we see, have peace with God. That is exactly how I got through the past 18 months. Knowing that the Lord was in control and that no matter the results I could have peace with God through the Lord Jesus Christ. Did I always feel that peace or rely on it, no because I'm human. I can say though that I had peace with each decision made concerning my health and if there wasn't peace I would ask if I could have some time before giving my answer.

Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God...." This verse can be applied in so many areas one of which is yours, mine, any ones health. See back on November 13, 2017 I had no idea how the Lord could use getting a mastectomy for good. Through this journey I've seen people saved, doctors, other patients, people I meet shopping or on a trip. So, then on November 21st I received a call from my surgeon and he wanted to inform me that he was 99% sure that all cancer had been removed. Then a year, and five days later I make the trip with my husband back to Boston for a one year check-up and to have a few test ran. Upon meeting with my surgeon, his nurse, and my oncologist they told me that there was NO sign of cancer or cancerous cells! They're is a quote I've seen that I truly applies here: 

Sometimes I just Look Up, Smile and Say, "I know that was you GOD! Thank You!" 

This is exactly what I said, when I heard I've officially been cancer free for one year and five days. Because I and a hundred plus others are doing/did this clinical trial it's showing the medical field what they can do and for me, what God can do! I've always known the Lord would take care of me and my family. But over the past year plus I've really learned what it means when the Lord said, "..But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory.." It's not just the spiritual, or just the physical, it's not just the material but ALL your need according to his riches. 

As I sat in the conference in Connecticut listening to Mrs. Clark, Amy Vassak and others, he showed me that no matter the journey, no matter the trial God will take care of each of us. Satan will attempt to discourage you and to put you down. 

Matthew 4:10 "Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shall worship the LORD thy God, and him only shalt thou serve." 

6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." 

Don't let Satan get you down, discouraged or distracted. Stay focused on the Lord, seek him first. If you will fully rely on the Lord he will get you through your trial or journey. As I look back over the last 18 months I can say, I know when I was relying and depending on the Lord and the times I wasn't. Just as I can tell in my daily goings on. If I get up and rush into my day, it doesn't go nearly as smoothly as it does on the days I pray and have my time with the Lord. 

So as an overall view I'm a cancer survivor of 18 months. I'm cancer free for one year now, and even though I have a few lingering issues from having chemo, lymph nodes removed and radiation God is control and he knows my every tomorrow and HE is the one I lean on for my strength through the journey.  

So the question to you is:" Who will grow in the Lord, depend on him for strength, trust in Him because of your testimony in your trial or journey? 

Blessed Beyond Measure

Make Today Amazing

Another Surgery, biopsy, results

I just keep trusting my Lord,

As I walk along!

I just keep trusting my Lord,

And he gives a song.

Though the storm clouds darken the skies,

Or the heavenly trail,

I just keep trusting my Lord 

As I walk along....

He's a faithful friend,

Such a faithful friend

I can count on him

To the very end!

Though the storm clouds darken the skies

Or the heavenly trail.

I just keep trusting my Lord

As I walk along!!

Yes, that is what I have done for well over a year, and I had to once again, say, "Lord, if cancer is my life then I trust in you!"  I was waiting to say anything about this last surgery because there was a concern the cancer had returned just three months after finishing chemo. Praise the Lord, though even though located two cc from the original tumor, it was a very enlarged cyst that was irritated due to radiation/chemo. On Wednesday, 9/12 I had surgery/biopsy to have the cyst removed. Then on Thursday, 9/20 I got the results back, which was benign! We are praising the Lord for that!! Just because the road looks clear and the storm clouds seem to have settled don't stop trusting in the one, the only one that can and will take care of and heal you.

I am having some issues with the lymphoedema, and maintaining range of movement in my left arm, but God has given me the strength to do the daily exercises. Even if I don't regain full movement I'm very thankful for what I have.

Friend, God has purpose and time for everything we go through. Two of children and their families as well as my parents have gone through a huge valley with Hurricane Florence, and one of my children recently with their own health issues. Though I, was very stressed over this and at times worried a lot about them and the situation. God was always there. He has answered several prayers over the last two weeks and I know that my God will answer prayers in his time, and as we need them.

Don't give up praying! Prayer works and as the Bible says, "Pray without ceasing." It doesn't mean we're to pray all day and all night, but rather we are to pray daily, several times during the day. Somethings that you can us to look for and pray more than during your devotional time, or dinner time, or before bed. Have things that remind you of people, situations etc.
For example:
--When I come across a penny I now pray for all who have been affected by a Hurricane. This includes those that have already recovered because the heartache, pain, etc is still with them. I have a friend in Louisiana who lost everything and recently mentioned how the memories, the tears had come back.   My family and all those, who just come through and is still going through clean up and rebuilding from Florence. They have now been added to that list when I come across a penny.
--My wedding rings when I'm busy and I look down (or now feel them on the necklace) I pray for my husband.
--I see a prayer bulletin or something that reminds me of my church family. I pray for them, my pastor and his family.
These are just a sample of things I use to remind to pray for different ones. Do I always do it, no because I'm human and I forget or think I'll pray later. My goal is though to never let an opportunity pass by to pray for someone.

So, no matter your trial, or valley, or situation remember we have a God that answers prayers and will answer our prayers if we only ask.

Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Ridiculously Amazing

Life after _________. What do you need to put in the blank?

Hello my dear friends, I am so sorry I've not kept up but as I have completed all my treatments and radiation I'm been trying to simply get things to a "new normal". If you have battled any sickness or had any life changing things take place in your life you will understand sometimes what was can no longer be the norm.

I have asked myself and others, in a teasing manner, what is normal? Hee hee I suppose it all depends on the person, doesn't it?! Oh well, I'm now working on a "new normal" for me. Of course in the last two months I have had a son get married, and a son go off to Bible college, my husband had surgery and tomorrow is my three month check-up so there's a lot of "new normal" going on. So I thought I'd share some of what I'm doing that is being a huge help in getting Life going again.

First is, I'm working on having a menu for our evening meals. Reason being some days I still don't feel up to cooking or some days I forget to plan for an evening meal. So for the last month I have had daily menus and it's amazing how not only do I save money on groceries but I know each day exactly what I need.

EX: Monday 9/3 Hot dogs (with all fixings) I have listed anything that we as family enjoy on hot dogs, potato salad, corn on the cob, and salad.

Tuesday 9/4 Beef Stew (Rival Crock Pot Page 32) then I list items I need to purchase on my menu

Wednesday 9/5 Chicken (Rival Crock Pot Page 20) again Items I needed to purchase I listed and bought on this past Saturday when I went shopping.

Thursday 9/6 Subs, chips, baked beans

Friday 9/7 Left overs

Saturday 9/8 Pizza, chips

Sunday 9/10 varies

This just gives anyone who may be interested in doing a menu a general idea. Yes, some of these meals is what we're actually having :) this week. Now what happens if we don't have left overs or enough to feed everyone - that is where I have a stir-fry or something I can pull out of the freezer and ta-da dinner is served. :)

The Bible teaches that everything should be done decently and in order. In order for me to do that I must plan. Then not only do I plan but I follow that plan. Sometimes I have to be flexible when other times I can follow it to the T. The goal though is to do things decently and in order.

I also have a cleaning schedule because over the last year things were neglected and things were not always done. So to get a deep cleaning in and to make sure all things are done decently and in order I have a list that I follow.  EX: Monday - Laundry and work on Kitchen; Tuesday - Bathroom scrub the floor etc. and so on and so forth. Each day of the week gives me something to focus on.

Then on top of that I have things that get done daily:
Devotions - staying in Gods word and keeping him the center of my life
Piano - I need to practice daily to learn and get to where when I play for church it's for Gods glory and I know I've put forth my best effort to be prepared.
Dishes - who wants to walk into a dirty kitchen etc.

So as you see, things I use to just do or not do I now plan. I've heard a theory used in several ways and I use it and a friend shared how she uses it with her anxiety. It's the spoon theory this helps me to keep my "new normal" going in a decent and orderly fashion. I will say, I'm very thankful I have more good days than bad now and God has without a doubt blessed us beyond measure.

So friend, you may have a hidden illness, a visible illness, a heartache, or anything but remember to stay in God's word, stay before Lord in prayer, do what you can, and to the best of your ability with the Lords help you WILL get through each day. You may not accomplish every task you set for that day, but if you put your best foot forward and if you have only 5 spoonful's of energy do what you can, so you can be what you need to be for your family.

I know there's not been a lot of scripture but really there is life after __________________ and whatever you maybe going through. (fill in the blank) If today was bad, figure out what went wrong and change it to make tomorrow Absolutely Ridiculously Amazing! :)

Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Ridiculously Amazing

There's Always A Rainbow After The Storm

What storms have you faced recently? Did you look for the Rainbow afterwards?

Nahum 1:3, 7

"The LORD is slow to anger and will at all acquit the wicked: the LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.

The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him."

Psalms 107:28-30

"Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.

He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.

Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired heaven."

In reading these verses, we see how God has full control the storm. The Lord can calm the wildest storm and make everything peaceful and quiet. How can we apply this to our lives?

When a storm hits such as financial trouble, sickness, death, etc the Lord knows how to calm your sea of turmoil. He knows what you need, who  you need, and when you need the quiet, peaceful haven. Are you putting your trust in him to do that for you?

We have recently come through the storm and days of trouble as I'm sure many of you have as well. Let me say here, if you're thinking all is good for me and I'm going to be just fine. You need to step back and first be thankful the sea is calm, but beware of the calm before the storm. I would have never in a hundred years expected to have or get cancer. However, the rough seas came and I/we had to endure the storm of uncertainty, of doctors, of over 60 appointments from January of this year to June 4th. This is not counting all the appointments from May 9, 17 to December. I had to ride the rough sea of going through surgery, and radiation, BUT There was a quiet time coming a time of peacefulness, a time where my haven was calm and the waves weren't pounding at my door.

Friend when you go through a storm remember, there's a rainbow after the storm is gone. What is that rainbow? It's a promise from God that he knows and is with us. When you come through the storm and yes while in the storm you should Praise the Lord, trust in him and continually praise and trust in Him, during after the storm.

Psalms 34:1, 3-4, 8, 17-20, 22
"I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.
I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be a contrite spirit.
Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.
He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken.

The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.


We should always praise the Lord. I know at times we may even feel he's not with us. However, he is and when he's quiet it is during the test or the trial you maybe going through. As we go through life there will be many afflictions and many storms that knock us down, we simply need to get up, dust ourselves off, thank the Lord that we have this minute, this hour, this day, month or year, and keep on praising God for all he's done and will do.

The topic "There's always a rainbow after the storm". Can be viewed in several ways. My thoughts are simply:
1. The storms of life will come
2. How you view it is up to you
3. Look for the rainbow after you come through the storm
4. Praise the Lord for what you learn during the storm and for allowing you to see the rainbow at the end.
5. Whatever you do, DON'T let Satan win by complaining, moaning and groaning over the storm.

No matter the size of your storm, God is in control and he knows your tomorrows. The greatest part is, He's already there!!! So, "Rejoice in the Lord alway and again I say Rejoice". "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path".

The joy of the Lord is my strength - through the storm, through the valley, on the side of the mountain and on the mountain top.

Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Amazing

Never Forsaken

I Chronicles 28:20 "And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage and do it; fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord."

The last few days have been days that I felt I have not been able to do what I said I would do, or even be where I said or wanted to be. Is this my fault not totally when one stops and considers all that has happened the last year 14 months. I know for me I am one that wants to jump right into the middle of something and go for it. Well, though I had two really good weeks I was not anticipating a low day. I have been so thrilled to be a part of services, being in church for almost three weeks straight on Sunday and Wednesday with one week adding two extra church days.

However, Life after Cancer has it limitations but we can not let it discourage us. I was going to share some out Mrs. Evans book this entry but I believe this is what I am to share for now.

As I read this verse in I Chronicles I was thinking, lately the Lord seems to direct me to the scriptures that speak of being strong and of good courage. This passage is no different in that it speaks of that, as well as, not fearing, that He will not fail me, He will not forsake me.  Recently our Pastor preached a sermon, and he said something that I had noticed in my life and even just yesterday felt. That is when you are going through something sometimes we feel the Lord is not with us. We wonder where he is, not because we are not trusting in him or because we do not think he will care for us. Rather because when one is going through something we will sometimes feel as though God is not there at that moment even though he is.

I like the saying I heard once, "The teacher is quietest during the test" That is exactly how it is when we are going through a trial, a rough time, a time of not knowing. God is with you, he will never forsake you, He wants you to be strong and of good courage. He is there, just quiet through the test.

I have to be careful not to start feeling forsaken, for the fact I am home alone a lot. Saturday and Sunday was no exception this past week, except that I was not doing well health wise. I have made it past one month and still have a month to go where I could really feel bad at times and yet I still have a long time where my energy could be really low. However I choose not to focus on what could be but go day by day. I over extended myself the last two weeks being so excited to even feel like going and doing that I physically was forced to stop. As I messaged a lady in my church this evening I realized I was starting to feel sorry for myself. As I mentioned earlier over the weekend I honestly felt people would start thinking I was not dependable. Which is not the case they know and to a point understand. The sweet part of the texting with this lady, she did not focus on what I said about not being dependable, but rather on the positive and encouraged me by saying she has been and will continue to pray for me.

Friend, what are you facing that at times you may start to wonder if God is there? What trial are you going through that you feel forsaken? Let me remind you that God will never forsake you, you have no need to fear, be strong and of good courage. So, life after cancer is rough, God carried you through it he will also carry when you need it afterwards as well.

As you go through ___________________ you add what it is.
1. God knows our tomorrows
2. God Loves you and watches over you
3. God will never leave you

As you go through ___________________ you add what it is.
1. Be strong and of good courage
2. Fear not
3. Put your trust 199% in the Lord

As you go through __________________ you add what it is.
1. Remember you are Blessed Beyond Measure
2. You Can Make Today Amazing through Prayer and Bible Reading
3. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

As I read the passage in I Chronicles I was reminded God is LOVE, God gives me courage and strength, God gives me peace not fear, God is always there even when I feel forsaken.

Now if you are not saved you may not understand this. You may say how can this be? It is really quite simple, see God gave his only begotten son for you and for me. He did this because he Loves the world! Not just the white, or the black, or the Jew or the Gentile, He loved us ALL!

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life."

Whosoever is YOU my friend. You simple need to trust in the Lord asking him to forgive you of your sins and to come into your heart. That is all there is to it. You can not get to heaven by being good. You get to heaven by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ! If you want the peace that he will never forsake you, you can it. Would you say this prayer, keeping in mind the prayer does not save you, but having faith that Jesus will forgive you of all your wrong doing and come into your life.

Dear Jesus,
Thank you for dieing on the cross and raising up from the grave. Now dear Lord, I ask you to forgive me of my sins, I understand I am a sinner and can not get to heaven on my own, or by my works. Please dear Jesus come into my heart and take me heaven when it is my time to go. Thank you Jesus for saving me.
In Jesus name, Amen.

Friend if you prayed this prayer and meant it, I would love to be able to rejoice with you in your salvation...  Please feel free to leave a comment.

Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Amazing

Life after cancer

Good evening, well, I thought I would jump on here and just do a small update of life after cancer.

I have wanted to hit life running just like I was doing before cancer. You know though that does not happen. You have to work back into the old way of life. This past week I was so excited to go to church Sunday all day, then make Monday and Tuesday Conference at church, then Wednesday night church, and yes I did not stop there. On thursday I went up North with my husband to drop a car off, then Friday ran errands. You guessed it, things did not slow down. On Saturday we drove to Vermont for a dear friends wedding, church on Sunday and then yet again today, another wedding though closer to home. Yes, I am beat. So though there is a ton of things I could be doing, want to do, possible need to do, I am slowing down until Wednesday morning.

See, though life does not slow down for me. I will need to pick and choose. Would I have not done any of these things the past nine days, probably not because these were important things but I would have rested a little more or said no to a few things that could have waited.  The only thing different now from a month ago is I am no longer on treatments, however I still have healing, recovering, staying healthy, watching blood counts etc. I have to change some things and be smart in what I do.

Being idle is not in my blood. Sitting around doing absolutely nothing, is not part of my make up. So, I just need to be careful and schedule. I am sharing this because there maybe one out there who thinks I have gone through this journey and I am afraid of doing this or that. Friend as you go through life there are things we can say, No to. There are things that we may need to say, I would love to be a part but I have already over extended myself, or this is a day I have scheduled to do very little. I will admit this is a hard thing for me but if we depend on the Lord and let him guide us and pray about each thing we want, would like or need to do, He will guide you in making the right decisions.

The things is we depended on the Lord through the journey and just because you have made it through does not mean we no longer seek his face. God is a God of love, support, wisdom, strength not just in the valley but on the mountian top as well. We must continue to serve, and do what our Heavenly Father has for us.

So as you/I go into the next phase of the journey remember His Eye Is On The Sparrow and I know He watches Me!

Life does continue after the trial/journey it just has to be at a different pace. Do not stop living, do not stop serving just learn your limits. I will be sharing a few things from Mrs. Marlene Evans boook titled Life After Cancer in the near future. So be looking for another blog post titled Life after Cancer.

Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Amazing

Doing Well

Hello on this beautiful Saturday afternoon!

Today has been a busy day with my youngest son, Jason. He and I and together (he doing more than me) cleaned up the house. Doing some much needed cleaning that had been ignored or barely touched in the last six to nine months. It feels good to be able to go and do things again and be exhausted in just a few hours. I'm still adjusting though because I still have a day here and there where the energy level isn't 100% but God through his grace has and is giving me more and more energy for each day.

To back up a little bit earlier in the month, I had my last treatment and that same week I went to our Ladies Retreat which was amazing! I'm so thankful I was able to go and enjoy the relaxation, the fun, the fellowship, the time with church family and with one of our missionary wives who was in town at the time. Since then I've been a little under the weather, as I told my hubby, I believe the brick wall that hit me was 13 months of sickness that I hadn't had during chemo, surgery and radiation. Planning to be in my place tomorrow at church and do what needs to be done. Below are a few pictures from the Ladies Retreat I mentioned.

 Several of the ladies enjoying games, and the lake we looked out across from the cabin. Dunn's camp is a beautiful place!

As the last couple of weeks have passed I've thought a lot on certain days, what had happened that date just a year ago and you know, I've found that though we didn't and in some ways don't know why things happened the way they did, whether it was a year ago, two years ago or yesterday, God is still the same. He still loves me no matter what. He took care of me before I had cancer, while I had cancer and so far since being deemed cancer free. Of course I know he will continue to care for me. See, the Lord cares for the Sparrow, if he eats, where he fly's, where he sleeps, he even sees and knows when the sparrow falls. Since God cares that much for the sparrow I know he cares even more me! His eye is on the sparrow and I know he watches me!

So as I continue my journey, yes this journey continues even after being told I'm cancer free. See, there are still appointments, and an out patient surgery. There are still things that most be watched and things I must be careful of BUT I have a God in heaven who's brought me this far and he'll see me through the rest of this journey caused by cancer.

If you have a journey that you are going through, don't worry and fret about it. Turn it over to the Lord, he watches over you just as he does the Sparrow. The greatest thing you can do, in your journey, is stay close to God! Read your Bible, Pray, be in church as much as you can, go out soul winning and telling others about Christ. Share the gospel with your nurses, doctors, co-workers etc. Don't let your journey get you down.

Bill and I are doing great! We serve a might King that still reigns on high. So as you go through your day, do as we do, look for something to "Make Today Amazing!" 

Blessed Beyond Measure

Make Today Amazing

Cancer Free 5/23/18

Cancer Free giving God the glory!

Proverbs 8:32-35 "Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.
Hear instruction, and be wise,  and refuse it not.
Blessed is the man that hearth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.
For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.

You are probably wondering what do these verses have to do with being cancer free. Well, I'm going to share several things and I think you'll see how it all ties together.

See back on May 9, 2017 when I heard, "you have stage 3 possibly stage 4 breast cancer I was devasted. I didn't really ask why, I was more in shock than anything. I could only think of my husband, children, grandchildren, future daughter in laws and my son in law as well as my dear parents. What was I to tell them? How was I going to get my youngest through his Senior yr? Just thousands of thoughts.

Well, we knew the key was to stay close to God and he would carry us through our journey. As I went through each stage of me having cancer, I had different verses, songs, sayings that I would strongly lean on.

This passage wasn't one of them, but today as I was reading it really spoke to me.

So I'm going to take a few thoughts of this passage and share my thoughts with you:

Vr 32 "....Blessed are they that keep my ways."
I personally believe that because we kept faithful, we didn't give up, we continued to love the Lord, serve him and do as he tells in His word: that is why I'm now Cancer free.
It would have been easy to say nope, I'm sick, I have to many appointments and to much to worry about to not keep His ways. I continued piano lessons until I had to stop. Which I hope to pick back up really soon. Every church service I could be in I was there, even some I probably should have been home.

Vr 33 "Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not."
As you sit in church take and heed the instruction your pastor gives. As you sit in ladies meetings take heed to the instruction the speaker gives. Don't refuse it, be wise and use it.

Vr. 35 "For whoso findeth me findeth life..." if you are saved you have the life that is mentioned here. If you aren't this is something God wants you to have life in Him.
John 3:16 " For For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Wow! Everlasting life! You not only find life in Christ but you receive everlasting life. Understanding that your a sinner, that God loves you so much he gave his son for you and he wants you to have eternal life. Salvation is plus nothing an minus nothing it's simply trusting in Christ not your good works. Friend if you are reading this back in May of 1988, I settled it, nailed it down that I was saved and going to heaven. Today, June 8, 2018 you can do the same!

I am Blessed Beyond Measure all because i trusted, I kept in the way, and God in return cured me of a very aggressive cancer. I'll to the best of my ability continue to do as I've been doing.

Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Amazing
Cancer Free 5/23/18

One Year Later

Good morning friends,
Well, we just recently passed our one year mark. A brief recap for those who may just be happening upon my blog.
May 9, 2017 I went to the doctors because I thought there maybe a problem.
May 12, I had a biopsy done confirming I had breast cancer.
June 26, Started first round of chemo at Dana Farber.
Oct. 24, Ended Chemo.
Nov. 13, Had Surgery which was very successful.
Nov. 17, Received a phone call from Boston which was to tell me I was cancer free!
Dec. 19, started continuation of Hercepton and  Prejeta treatment.
Jan 8, 2018 Started and ended Taxol chemo. Went into anaphylactic shock was hospitalized for two days.
Jan. 22, started a third chemo. Praise the Lord all went well with that.
March 14, ended my chemo!
March 21, I met with the radiologist for my radiation treatment.
April 4, Radiation began for five weeks.
May 2, Radiation ended.
June 4, my last Hercepton Perjeta treatment .

As I look back over these dates some more exciting than others I see how much I'm loved by our Lord! He's seen me through every second, every minute , every hour, every day and never forsaked me.

I Peter 5:7 "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you."

The moments of your day and the needs of your heart are in His hands!!  I gave my life to God many years ago to be used for him.

Galatians 2:20 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

What a great verse for today and not just today but every day. We're to die daily to self and part of that is giving our hearts to Him. Dieing daily in the valley an on the mountain top. I learned over the past year that dieing to self in the valley is a lot harder. I'm sure there are ladies maybe men reading this that would and do know this, but when you actually are in the fire and at points don't know what's next it can an is more of test to die daily to self. If you are asking how do you, do this? First if you're not saved you need to accept Christ as your Saviour.
John 3:16
"For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. "
You simply trust in the Lord,  stay in Gods word and pray fervently.

In the valley, God is there.
On the Mountain side, God is there.
On the Mountain top, God is there.
God is always there, even when it seems he's not.

In the valley, God is love.
On the mountain, God is love.
God is forever loving me, He's there even when it seems he's not.

So, in the valley, on the mountain you can count on God through it all!

Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Amazing

Taken just a few days ago. A yr after my first biopsy.

A little bit of everything....

Good evening, as I share things in different places I tend to forget one or two places I want to share so the following screen shots/pictures are things I've shared over the past 7 days or so.

As you read through these it's thoughts the Lord gave me and I shared with you an others.

My journey is still going but praise the Lord, I'm prayerfully through the roughest part. 

Blessed Beyond Measure

Make 

Rejoice in the Lord

I've not posted my daily scripture the past few days but trust me, each day brings new thoughts new verses and encouragement that only the Bible and God can give. Today as I was thinking about no radiation needed, no chemo needed, no doctor's needed for almost two weeks I couldn't help but think about Mrs. Marlene Evans favorite verse (or one of them) "Rejoice in the Lord always and again I say rejoice."  Philippines 4:4

It's not been easy to rejoice through everything but I rejoice in that the Lord brought me and my family through this journey.  So many have no hope, they see no need to depend on anything or anyone other than science and medicine. Praise the Lord though through Christ we have hope, we have a reason to rejoice. 

Rejoice in the Lord alway and again I say rejoice

Rejoice

rejoice 

And again I say rejoice!!!! 

These photos are from the past year. All the way to basically no hair. 

Blessed Beyond Measure

Make Today Amazing

What can Cancer NOT Do?

It's limited to only the body but if you're not saved it could do what this poem says it can't.  As I've now been to Dana Farber Cancer Center,  Harold Alfond Center for Cancer plus all the doctors. As I've seen and talked to so many people with an without cancer. I'm amazed, yet saddened at how people don't rely God. They don't have a church nor want one they can go to for support. My husband and I have talked to many people about salvation we've seen some saved, some flat out refuse to even listen, somelisten them say nope it's not for me. While others say they only depend on science an the doctors. May 9, 17, I was told I had something wrong, the doctor said, I needed a series of test done. On May 12, it was confirmed I have cancer possibly stage four. What do I do? That's where my Heavenly Father became even more real to me.

Below are verses that one could add to this poem to not allow cancer to take over in your joy, strength, love etc.

I John 4:7-8 "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not Good, for God is love."

Psalms 31:24 "Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD."

Galatians 5:22 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Philippines 4:7 "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Psalms 27:14 "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say, on the LORD."

However before you can fully have these things you must need, to know the Lord as your Saviour.
All you need to do is realize you are a sinner. "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." No one is perfect.
"For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." We dont have to pay for our sins! The Lord has already made that payment, we just simply need to accept his free gift of eternal life. That free gift is plus nothing an minus nothing. Just simply take it!
"For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Simply believe in Him.
Friend I have been through a lot! I'm not perfect and apparently I'm a lot stronger than I personally feel I am. But, God, my husband,  my Pastor & his wife, my church family, my family and friends have been there for me. This journey couldn't have been the way it has without all these people and most importantly the Lord.

January 8, 18 I came the closest I've ever been to meeting Jesus. It wouldn't have be bad at all, but I'm so grateful I'm still here. God's not finished using me yet.

He's still working on me, to make me what I aughta be. It took him just a week to make the moon an stars, the sun an the earth an Jupiter and Mars but he's still working on me!

Would you, if you had gone through all the chemo, all the shots, biopsies, surgery, all most dieing, radiation and lots to still do, be saying, Cancer can't _____________ and whatever you won't let it control?

You can put other things there as well not just cancer. Let your sickness, your trial, your cross, be a platform for sharing Christ and helping others.

Don't whine and cry about your cross pick it up say, "Lord, I may not understand but I'll carry the cross you gave me." Because you know my future an what your plans are for me. I'm the clay and your the master. I'm the vessel you've chosen to use, use me! 

Blessed Beyond Measure 

Make Today Amazing 

I Shall Come Forth as Gold

When I am tried and purified, I shall come forth as gold.

What trial in your life is going to purify you and bring forth gold? Yesterday March 12th I was nervous as I lay on the table for radiation even though it was my 13th treatment, I couldn't focus then this phrase "I shall come forth as gold" came to mind. The Holy Spirit gave that to me as I lay there for my treatment.

Throughout the day and evening I've thought about it. When I am tried (cancer) and purified (chemo, surgery, more chemo, radiation, nine more months of infusions) I shall come forth as gold (healed if the Lord sees fit,maybe more refining to be a better witness for Him)

Every day brings something new or different. I believe that is the Lord refining what is to come.

Job 23:10 "But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold."

The Lord knows the way you'll  take, because he's  leading you. (Cancer, death of a lived one, a sick child etc)
He knows the trial you'll  face, because he's already in your tomorrow.  (Where to go, what medicines to take, what doctor to see)
He knows the pain, the heartache, the tears, the joy, the happiness.
So we just need to surrender to his will and you'll come forth as gold.

So friend just allow God to work in an through you in the valley an on the Mountain top. He holds your hand through the good and the bad. God's is always there to comfort an cheer.

What's your purifying to gold going to be like?

In my last post I had mentioned I have a verse a day for radiation. Yesterday's verse was:
Isaiah 51:11 "Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away."

This verse can be applied to, coming forth as gold. In that we can obtain gladness, joy, and have our sorrow and mourning pass away. What trial do you have sorrow in? Mourning the fact of ___________ (you fill in the blank).
God makes a way for us it's up to the individual if you're going to allow God to purify you through the trial and come forth as gold with gladness an joy. Or are you going to fight against it and not grow or learn from the trial.

I personally want to learn. I want to be a testimony for Christ, an use my trial for Him to see others saved. To help others come through their trial.

So, what will you do?


Blessed Beyond Measure
Make Today Amazing

What will you do during your trial?

Good Evening, Oh my I didn't realize how long it had been since I posted anything here. It's been almost a month since I posted last so I'll try to catch you up on everything. 

Chemo is officially over as off, March 7th. Then I as supposed to have 3 weeks with none or only a few appointments that didn't happen. Hahaha  So my year long treatments are still going, once every three weeks. Those are a breeze pretty much :)  I had to start PT for my left arm as, I have had lymphedema start. I was praying I wouldn't have to worry about it but since I do I'll just go on and not worry to much.

I'm now in full swing of having radiation take place. I've completed eight treatments thus far with 16 to go.  For those who may not know I have treatments five a days week and I have 3-1/2 weeks to go. 

Since starting radiation I decided to have a verse a day. By having a verse a day has helped encourage me and get me through each treatment. It also helps me focus on God and his goodness rather than what is going on. 

A few of the verses I've used as "My verse for the day" are:

~Isaiah 41:10 "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." 

~Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." 

~Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."

~Hebrews 12:1 "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us."

~Joshua 1:9 "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest."

~Psalms 31:24 "Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD"

~Jeremiah 17:14 "Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me. and I shall be saved: for thou are my praise."

~Psalms 27:14 "Wait on the LORD be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD."  

Each verse the Lord gave me and he had something for me that day I could carry with me. It is also a scripture verse a day my nurses hear. While laying there on that cold, hard table having radiation done. I'm quoting these verses out loud. There's not a lot of time that I can actually talk to these ladies but I'm only in there about 10 to 15 minutes max and as soon as I get up they are preparing for the next patient. Praise the Lord though I've been able to give them all tracts and invite them to church. One was an intern so she's already gone back to Boston to finish her schooling.

No matter what you are dealing with, there are ways to be a testimony to others. Whether through song, such as Jesus Loves Me, which I sing or hum almost daily while in radiation along with quoting a verse of scripture.

Back when I first started this blog, I had no idea where God would take it or how it would end up. I have no idea who's life it may (or will) have touched or who it may have (or will) helped. All I know is that I was encouraged to use my Journey of cancer as a platform. To use this to be a light to others. To be an encouragement and example of Christ while traveling a road I had never planned to take. 

When we have a bump in life or a road we didn't plan to take it doesn't mean God is punishing us. It is simply a tool we can use for others. It's a tool that depending on how we choose to use it, depends on what God can do through us and with us.

I'm not a great Christian, I do however try to do my best, sometimes I may flounder, while other times I make it through but with Christ in my life and living a Christ like life to the best of my ability, God will use me or you if we only allow him to. 

So my friend, as you go through life just focus on how you can be a light for Him. 

Blessed Beyond Measure

Make Today Amazing

Update on my appointments:

Monday 4/9 through Friday 4/13 of this next week I have radiation at 10:15 every morning.

Monday 4/16 through Friday 4/20 radiation at 10:15 every morning. 

Don't Become Discouraged

You've heard bad news.
You've had test after test.
You've been through the fire.
You've wondered, is it worth it.
You've had good days but double the bad.
You've missed more church, more soul winning times, more of what you enjoy, than ever before.

Friend, let me tell you, God is in control!
He knows your fears.
He see your tears.
He hears your prayers.
He knows your tomorrows.
He knows your pain and suffering .
He knows your heart!

So why do we get discouraged ?
Why do we stop _____________ you put in what you've quit. The trials, the heart aches, the illness, the testing, everything is for a reason! It's not and it shouldn't ever discourage us. Now, we are human, our flesh gets the best of us at times BUT.....

Jeremiah 33:3 "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee get an mighty things, which thou knowest not."

Psalms 91:15 "He shall call up in me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path.

Joshua 1:9 "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

Friends, family, stranger, God is never taken by surprise when things come into our lives. If you don't dwell on the past, simply look to the present see what God has for you today. I know and believe that you'll be better for it.
Yes, we have things we're going through. As you know if you've read this blog much or know me, I'm dealing with cancer. A few days ago it hit me that it was around this time last year, I knew something maybe going on. There were signs of things, pain but we were headed to see our daughter, her family, our son and my parents. So wise or not I ignored it and went and enjoyed my family, bearing a burden that only God an I knew about.

God was and still is in control. The thing is I can't say what if I.... it's done and well, it's in the past. So, I'm going forward. I'm not going to let Satan discourage me, pull me down or destroy me.

The choice is yours! Are you going to let past circumstances, situations, illnesses etc ruin today and your future?

Pick-up where you are, run to your Heavenly Father,  lean on Him, trust in Him, call upon him!

So what am I going to do?
Make Today Amazing by Not getting Discouraged! 

Run with Patience

Let me start with I don't always do well being patient. In this life we're to run the race with patience. Hebrews 12:1 "...and let us run with patience the race that is set before us."

What race have you been given to run? What ever it is remember that God gives us things to go through for a reason. When things go differently than you planned remember we need to be patient because as Romans 8:28 says, "All things work together for good...."

In June when my first round of treatments started this "race" wasn't in my plans and well, running it with patience wasn't always the easiest. As of today at 11 am I finished the race of chemo. The Lord gave the strength and patience needed to get through all the chemo and a surgery.

My next "race" is five days a weed for five weeks of radiation. I'm Not looking forward to this part of my race. However, God is there already and he knows what I need to get through this race.

If your not saved you my not understand what I'm meaning by run the race with patience. See as Christians we are daily running a race. The  Christian race of staying pure, of doing right, of staying in our Bible and praying. The race of not looking back going forward in our lives. The way we do this is by trusting in the Lord, depending on Him to guide and lead us. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path."
Trust in him to forgive you of your sins, and cleanse your heart. Trust in the Lord to take you to heaven.
"Call unto me and I will answer thee...." Jesus is waiting for you to open your heart to him. Won't you accept Christ today as your Saviour. Then you to can join in and run the race.

Make Today Amazing by running the race with patience.

So Much to be Thankful For!

Psalms 107:1 "O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endured forever."
Psalms 142:1-2 "I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication.     I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble.

Oh give thanks. We all have so much to give thanks for, From waking up each morning, having food, clothes, a place to live, our health. So why complain?

If your going to complain, take it to the Lord in prayer. Over the last several months people have said to me, "I never hear you complain about your situation." There's a reason for that. Ps 142 I complain to him sometimes to my husband but who does it help, no one.
Therefore, though people know I'm having a bad day, or sick, or struggling rather than telling them all my woes, I try to be positive giving thanks. Giving God the Glory for all that's happened in my life.

Now, I'm human as we all are and I do sometimes complain to another. Usually when that happens I've not read my Bible or prayed about that day. So, I do my best to read my Bible an pray daily so I can grow closer to Him rather than maybe pull another down because of my negativity.

The title to this blog post is"So Much to be Thankful For." I want to share some of those things.
1. I only need two more chemo treatments rather than six!
2. I learned today I only have five weeks of radiation rather than six.
3. One of my son's recently had a battery of test, praise the Lord one of the things they tested for was cancer and they found NONE!
4. Although I have 10 months still to go of treatments, appointments, and such God has been Good to our family every step of the way.
5. My church family, several have gone above an beyond the call of duty in many areas. Providing food, visiting, texting, calling, so on an so forth. This also applies for friends who aren't in our church.

I could go on an on with what God has done through my family, friends, doctors etc. My point though is You have so much to be Thankful for that really WE/YOU have no room to complain. If you must complain do as Ps 142:1-2 says and you'll be better for it.

So as I like to say and believe more than ever
I'm Blessed Beyond Measure
and  Make Today Amazing!

Control.... Who's in control for your life?

Control - verb, to exercise restraining or directing influence over;

to have power over; to reduce the incidence or severity of..... 

Love - noun, an intense feeling of deep affection; 

a person or thing that one loves. 

I realize we know the meanings of these two words, control and love. In my topic I asked the question, "How much do you have?" How much control? See in life general we have control of our life. We control a lot of things. What happens though when things spiral out of your control? 

I'm at a point in my chemo that I have no control over a few things and it's hard! I'm use to having some or all control. I help control our finances. I help control our children. I control my kitchen LOL. I control my prayer life and Bible reading. Now there are things I don't control, such as my husband he's the head of our home and God is in control of him. I don't know when or where the mail runs, I can't control delivery time. These are things that we all know. The picture I started this post with is one I'm really having to cling to right now!!! 

Right now I'm not able to control, right now and I'm having to let the one, Jesus, be in control even though I don't won't what's happening to happen. The Bible states in, I Corinthians 11:15, "But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given her for a covering."

God gave our hair to us for a covering and so it's not in vain that I don't want to loose my hair but because God gave it to me for a purpose. 

As I mentioned in my last post I'm having Abraxane Chemo and I was told I would loss my hair possibly. Friday, 2/2/18, I started losing more than usual. I broke down in tears at the thought of this happening. Now I've not lost enough for it to be noticed but I have lost enough I notice the difference in the thickness of my hair. 

My nurse Brynn, today, told me she understood that our hair is our covering. She as well as my Pastors wife made a few suggestions for me. I will and have started working towards a few goals. Even have an appointment already with my hair dresser. Which may I say, she's an amazing lady, her care, passion, and concern for people is AMAZING!!! 

I don't have control over this situation but I can control other areas of my life just as you can. You may seem your spiraling out of control and that you have no control. Don't worry as Christians our Lord has full control. Yes, I have had to remind myself by the minute, the hour, the day, every time I look in a mirror, or run my fingers through my hair. God is in control!!! He knows that even though I can't control this time of my life, I'm not being rebellious, I'm not being some crazy person (well ha ha ha ha) just chopping my hair off. I'm thinking through things and praying about it. 

See Joshua 1:9, "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." 

My courage, strength, control isn't very strong at the moment but as long as I lean and depend on the Lord to have control of my life, let him give courage to go through this and the strength that is needed to get through I can survive no matter what. I mean after all, with the Lord I got through all the clinical trials in Boston. With Christ I got through my surgery. I got through the devastating day, January 8th, and though I was the closest to dying I've ever been, God was in control and he carried me through. I had no control but God did! 

So friend I'm working on this and doing my best not to worry about what I can't control but focusing on what I can. At the same time I'm human and worry about that which I can't control but I have and I am taking steps towards that which I can help in this next phase of my life. 

Friend another thing that you can control is your decision to trust Christ. See, we all have a choice to chose Heaven or Hell. When we chose Heaven we are then turning the control of our life over to the Lord. If we deny him we are saying I can control my own life and I don't need you Lord. Which choice are you going to make?

In May of 1988 I got full assurance of my salvation and gave the Lord full control of my life. Letting the Lord control my life is much better than me controlling it. He knows what is best for me life way better than I do. I do control things but they are things we each should control, our attitude, our mouths not speaking foul language, our eyes, not looking at that which isn't appropriate. Our feet, not going where we shouldn't go. John 3:16-17, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." 

See you are loved so much by our Lord that he gave his ONLY son!! He wasn't looking to condemn us but to save us! What an amazing thought. The Lord of the Heavens and earth loved me, YOU, so much that he Gave, not loaned, but GAVE his ONLY son so we could have eternal life. 

Friend are you going to control your life? Or are you going to give your life to God for him to control? It breaks my heart when one says No to Christ. I'm not the greatest or the best Christian, I just do what I can through Christ to serve him and be his servant doing what he would have me to do. Since that was giving my life to him to control, that is what I did, in May of 1988 I gave the Lord my heart, my soul, my life. Why don't you today, give the Lord control of your life by accepting him as your personal saviour. 

Do you have something in your life that you can't control? Give it to the Lord! Easy? no It seems for me every time I look in the mirror, brush my hair, run my fingers through my hair I'm loosing more and more control of this Journey known as cancer. BUT, at the end of my day, I can through tears know God has control. 

So, friend Make Today Amazing by giving the Lord Control! 

Serving the Lord, New Treatment, God's Good!!!

Isaiah 41:10 "Fear thou not for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

Yesterday was another day for "starting" a new chemo. Our Pastor sent me this verse yesterday morning early, before I even went to the cancer center. As we were leaving to make our 15 min drive to the cancer center I was checking text and you know, God is watching out for you and having others to pray for you when one text was sent 4:30 am, another at 5 yet several others between 6 and 8 am. We, my husband an I had prayed Sunday night and again Monday morning that the Lord's will be done with this treatment, adding that everything running smoothly would be our preference. :)  Throughout the day I received various text from family, friends, and church family. God will never leave you or forsake. He gives us friends and family to love us and support us. 

To back up to earlier in the week, I haven't been able to go out soul-winning for some time, some health some weather. Gotta love Maine weather :) I was praying that the Lord would allow me to be able to go out soul-winning, then Thursday fell through for Ladies soul winning. Then I found out my husband wasn't working over time and we were going out on Saturday at our 12:30 soul winning time! The Lord answered my prayer in allowing me to be able to go out. Our Pastor gave us a visit we could make which turned into three in a way, one being via phone :) So then, when Monday came around I was nervous but knew I had done what the Lord would want during the previous week and the weekend. Staying faithful is key to anything you do, especially when it comes to serving the Lord. 

So on Monday after having a small glitch with my port, blood flow wasn't right at first, the rest of the day was looking pretty good. As I went into "my" chair for infusion, Cheryl, my nurse with a smile said, "I'll be watching you like a hawk." So, I was watched like you wouldn't believe! I had one of my sister in laws, my husband and a nurse right there the whole time! I also had my nurse call button in my hand the entire time letting go of it very little. I may have looked as though I was ready for a game or something *ha ha ha. The new chemo was started as she started the IV, tears began to roll, I will say even though I was thinking of the verse my Pastor had sent I was scared! There was thoughts of just two weeks before, I was so grateful for my sister in law and husband who quickly stepped up to my chair and we prayed. The peace that passeth understanding. As my husband prayed, such a peace and calmness came over me. I thank the Lord that he watches out for his own. Praise the Lord the treatment went very well.  

I'll now explain about the new chemo. I'm sure others could explain this better than I, but here goes: Abraxane - its a different form of paclitaxel than Taxol (chemical name Paclitaxel) In earlier studies it's shown Abraxane offers more benefits than a solvent-bases taxane when treating metastic breast cancer. 

When it comes down to which is better Abraxane or Taxol It does depend on your stage of cancer. The Taxol generally is the first choice for Breast Cancer, which is what I had given me two weeks ago.  When you have a reaction as I did, then other choices need to be made. As I said in my last blog post I almost died on Monday, January 8, 2018 because of the Taxol caring agent. Which puts me in a whole different realm of what treatments they can use for me. My doctors told me that the Abraxane is a cousin to Taxol with less harsh side affects as Taxol. I could still have a reaction but Praise the Lord I didn't! 

There are mild side affects, headaches, nausea, dizziness, hair loss etc.... Today, I've dealt with headaches all day. As I'm typing this I have a very mild headache but sitting in bed with lights low and working on this doesn't seem to be making it worse thankfully. 

As I face the next 11 weeks of chemo with 4 weeks including the treatments I get every three weeks for the next year, I believe God has a purpose and a plan for this all. My nurse yesterday as we talked and invited her to church and asked if she had ever accepted Christ into her heart. Was very sure of her salvation. She had been saved at Truth Baptist Church in Jefferson, ME, now Pastored by, Bro. Lovelace, years ago under a different Pastor. 

Friend, it doesn't matter what you are going through you can be a testimony for Christ! I'm naturally shy (some who read this may laugh if you know me well) but really I am naturally shy. It doesn't come easy for me to witness to people. I can sit in front of my computer and type and witness to people all day, because I'm not coming face to face with them. Put me out in the world, going door to door, if I don't know you I'm not as apt to talk, but with prayer and Lord's leading I and you can witness to anyone. 

The fear of having cancer, the fear of a third chemo going into my body, the fear of talking to someone about Christ, God can and will help you through each and every step. Fear isn't of God, so depend on God, trust in Him and His word to get you through each step of life. It doesn't matter if that next step is going for new job. God can and will give you the strength, wisdom and help needed to get there. God's grace is sufficient for YOU and for ME!!! 

Isaiah 41:10, "Fear thou not for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

Sitting at the Cancer Center

Yesterday was a very emotional and stressful day as I went to the Alfond Center for Cancer. As I sat there waiting for my name to be called for blood draw and meeting the with Dr. Julia, I noticed several things......

1. A lady who just learned she was to face surgery. Her loving husband trying to comfort her and assure her she would be OK.
2. A man who has to come in two or three times a week and is as happy as can be. He still skies White Tail Mountain. We spoke with him and how sad, he doesn't have time for church like things.
3. An elderly lady all alone, no one with her, she sat over in a corner with her eyes closed. Several tried to talk with her, volunteers, myself but she said, no.
4. Then myself who was a nervous wreck, didn't want to be there due to the week before, but I have the Lord and  my husband was right there by my side. Tears were escaping on an off while sitting there.

When you are out and see people what do you see? Just another person? Or one who could use an encouraging word? Maybe one who needs a helping hand? A soul who needs Christ? Yesterday I was very concerned, scared, not wanting to be where I was. However, I remember sermons, of put yourself last, think about others and what they need. Sunday evening, I had to be home and so via the Internet I listened to our church service. Our Pastor spoke on We're Our Own Worst Enemy. You know he's so right!!! How many times could I have told someone of Christ but didn't. How many times have I put ME first?

So even though I was not wanting to reenter the Alfond Center yesterday I decided to try looking at others try to see them as not just another patient but as one who is hurting as I am or worse. We/I wasn't able to speak to the first lady I mentioned because there was several around her. Even though I don't know her name I am praying for her. Praying for others brings a whole new perspective on your life. The gentleman my husband spoke mostly with, and the elderly Lady I tried to speak with, we tried to talk with them but they wouldn't listen. I can still pray that in some way, what was said, he'll remember and receive Christ.

After talking with my amazing oncologist, Dr. Julia M. she as only a caring doctor can do assured me that nothing will be done that I don't agree to. Also that the chemo I had gone into anaphylactic shock with would NEVER be used again. The Lord gave me the opportunity to witness to the nurse who was doing my blood work, one that was on stand by in case she was needed. Then nurse Susan, with tears in her eyes yesterday, gave me a huge hug saying she was so happy to see me. She couldn't stay and talk but took a track. Then the Psychologist, they felt I needed to see was such a sweet lady, my husband tried to give her a track but she simply replied that is nice, but no thank you. I'm sharing my day from yesterday because, No matter who you are, no matter where you go. Don't I ask, Don't be your own worse enemy. Don't neglect others! Don't say, Oh someone else will talk to that person! We never know what a day may hold. We never know when we will loose a loved one. We never know when one will have anaphylactic shock because of a medication, bee sting or anything!!!!

The picture I'm sharing is one I wasn't going to. God protected me and allowed me to pull through this.

January 2nd is about what I usually look like, the day before I was going in for my chemo was that Sunday January 7th. Then the the other 2 pictures the one being after they stabilized me and then the day after. God chose to let me pull this, and I'm forever Grateful for his protection and for the support of many, my husband being the my biggest supporter that was right with me.

So, If you my friend are reading this and don't know for sure your going to heaven I'd like to show you how you can know.
Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God."
We're all sinners, and without Christ we can't go to heaven.
Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death...."
There's a payment for what we do. God has already paid for your sins! You don't need to pay for them. Why?
Romans 5:8 "But God commendeth his love toward us in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
Right here it tells us, Christ died for you and me! He did this so we wouldn't have to pay for our own sins.
Romans 6:23 "...but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
Romans 10:13 "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Salvation is a FREE gift! Anyone, you, me, your friend, a parent anyone can call upon the name of the Lord and he WILL nor might, not possibly, but WILL BE SAVED.
You simply call upon him by Faith.

If you will ask the Lord to save you. (Realize it's not the words that will save you, but your faith in Jesus Christ)

"Dear Jesus, I know I am a sinner. Please forgive me of my sins. I now trust you as my personal Saviour. Come into my heart and save my soul from Hell. Please take me to Heaven when I die. Thank you for saving me, Jesus. Amen"

If you have read this and through Faith accepted Christ pleases leave me a comment that you trusted Christ so that I can rejoice with you.

Make Today Amazing by Trusting in Christ.

Do you know where you'll spend eternity?

Good evening, this post isn't going to be an easy one for me to write. See, this past Monday wasn't exactly the day we, my husband an I, had planned. I was scheduled to start my chemo on Monday, we went in had the usual blood draw, saw my doctor and I went to my infusion chair. All was going well, until somewhere around two pm.

From here to about nine pm I'm missing bits an pieces of my day. Before I go into this part of Monday, January 8, may I ask you, "If you were to die today where would you spend eternity?" Friend, Monday, I almost met my Saviour!  This is no joke, I'm not making this up. At 1 pm I was given benadryl and another med to help in case of an allergic reaction to Taxol the chemo medication I had not had before. Around 2 pm the Taxol at a slow and very low dosage was started through my port/IV. Now from here on I remember very little of the day because I went into anaphylactic shock. If you don't know what this means I was dieing. Thank the Lord though my doctors and many nurses were, as my husband says, "on their A game", that day. God guided them and used them to save my life!

See I went into my appointment with no real concern, I was actually confident that all was going to be good. Before I went into the infusion area I had handed out several tracks and I was hoping to possibly lead someone to the Lord that day. My day changed in a matter of minutes. We never know what a minute may hold.

My infusion for Taxol had started, knowing I could possible have a reaction, I had prayed that the Lord would protect me and all would go well. The next thing I remember I couldn't breath and I didn't feel right. I couldn't speak loud enough to get anyone's attention either. However, my husband noticed and took action immediately.  There are bits an pieces I remember but I'll not go into. Later of which I don't know time wise I was in the ER. Where more doctors and nurses were helping me.

Even though, I know For sure where I'm going I would hate for someone to be where I was on Monday, an not know the Lord.

John 3:16 one of my favorite verses. "For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. "  See God loves you and me so much, He gave his son for us! Jesus died on the cross, was buried and raised again, so you an I could have everlasting life!  We don't have to pay for our own sins. By faith believe in the Lord. He will, not might, or maybe, HE WILL SAVE YOU!

Friend, whoever you are, wherever you live, whatever you are going through, Don't do it without God! There's a reason I didn't die Monday. I don't know what God has for me but I'm grateful not only for my family and friends that I'm still here, but that God apparently has something for me to do.

This evening I text my Pastor about a nurse I remembered being called "Z". I remember talking to her but couldn't remember all I had said. Thankfully, I had talked to her and invited her to church. Although i didn't see anyone saved I put forth an effort to tell others of Christ.

Monday is basically a blurr but I pray in some way, some how God allowed me to touch someone's life for Him.

As to how I'm doing, I'm home recovering. I will go Monday January 15 to see my oncologist and figure out what is next. God is Only Always good and with him I, we will get through this journey of Cancer!

On Purposefully Look for Blessings

Good morning everyone! We're having a heat wave today it's 12° out!  🤗  After close to a week of sub zero temps at night an not much warmer during the day it feels as though we're in a heatwave. Thought I'd share a few special pics for you to enjoy!

 Pa, Grammy and Audrey

 Grammy and Jacqueline

Blizzard 2018

So what are you thankful for? What blessing have you received lately? If we're not careful we'll forget to be thankful or look for those blessings. We get so busy, or so wound up in our own lives that we miss out on blessings or being a blessing. So I decided for the next 12 weeks, 84 days I'm going to do something. I would like to challenge you to also do this, we'll not the chemo part 🤣

Starting today for the next 12 weeks I have chemo. Yesterday, I decided to daily, on purpose be thankful or be a blessing to someone. When I find or see a blessing, or something I'm thankful for; then I'll look up a scripture verse to go along with it. I'll record it in a notebook each day then when I'm down or feeling sorry for myself I can look back on what God did for me or another.

Today's already proven to have blessings by the many text I've received of people praying. So today is going to be amazing through thankfulness. 🤗😍

Caleb proposed to Elizabeth on 12/24/17 😍🤗