When I was first diagnosed with cancer, Rob worried we didn't have a strong enough support system around us where we live. We briefly discussed relocating for the duration of my illness, but decided it was even more important to be close to the hospital than to family. While it is true both sets of parents live quite a ways away and our friends are scattered all over the country, we have come to discover distance doesn't really factor into the equation and friends can always find ways to stay in touch.
Ian and June came out for a visit last night. Due to some staffing changes, Ian now works in the city and he and June try to stay at their city base at least one night a week. June cleaned out her closet and brought a bagful of hats and scarves for me. I wore a taupe-colored brimmed hat today when I took Cole for a walk in the park. Even though it was breezy the hat kept my head toasty warm. Gestures like this really mean a lot.
I received two packages in today's mail. One was from my Colorado teammates -- thanks! The package had two cards (one from the whole team and one from Kathy) and a lavender reed diffuser -- one of my favorite fragrances. You place reeds in the bottle of fragrant oil and oil is absorbed through the reeds and the fragrance released into the air.
The other package was from Bonnie at my Mom's church. It is a beautiful broach -- a fairy sitting on a leaf. The colors are gorgeous and it will add sparkle to any outfit. I can't wait to wear it!
We also received an Easter card from Rob's parents.
As I said our support system is wide-spread -- whether it is an email from Francine or Paul, a quick chat with Kelly (who listened to me rant about the ants in my dining room), a comment from Mark or a note from Mom tucked in with the package -- it is clear we have many people standing beside us, and thinking about us, during this battle. We appreciate it all.
And speaking of standing beside us, I had a request from work. Two teams are participating in the Relay for Life in June and one of the teams has asked if they can use "The Hero's Journey" as the theme. I said yes, as long as my picture didn't turn up on a T-shirt. Kelly and I created a logo for the team's consideration (no picture of me) and if I'm up to it I'll spend some time at the relay event and help with a fundraiser or two beforehand.
Today was beautiful and I took advantage of the warm sunshine to plant some spinach in one of my window boxes. I need to pick up some more soil so I can plant some lettuce, start tomato seedlings and coax some basil to sprout. Hopefully the rest of the week is as nice, and Cole and I can do some more walking -- he is just crazy full of energy.
I am participating in the Relay for Life this year too. We are going to do it in Middleton and have a group from work. I have wanted to for the last few years and had a hard time getting a team together that didn't have one through their work. I am so excited about finally doing it!!
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