Girlfriends

Sometimes what seems like the worst time to do something is the best time.

Earlier this year, four high school girlfriends and I picked last weekend for a rare overnight outing. As the time for our trip approached, it became clear to me that it would occur just as I was entering an incredibly busy time at work. I was facing deadlines to prepare for some important meetings, several day trips around the state and a trip out of town for an annual conference at which I will be making a presentation to peers from around the country. The home front was also hectic as Tom and I celebrated our 36th wedding anniversary in the middle of renovating our kitchen.

How could I possibly take time out for myself with so much to do? How could I not?

Our girls' weekend turned out to be one of the best tonics I could have taken in preparation for the busy time ahead. We shopped our way south, checked into adjoining rooms at a casino hotel, gambled a little, giggled a lot and shopped our way back home the next day.

As I buckled down at work this week, photos and recollections of our fun time together popped into my e-mail inbox, putting a smile on my heart that lightened my load. I expect the memories will continue to lift me as I head into these next two busy weeks. There is nothing my girlfriends can do to help me cross any to-do's off my list, but the time spent with them gave me the renewed spirit that will carry me across the finish line. That's what girlfriends do best!

Blessed!

I put on a brave front, but was anxious as I waited to see the doctor this week to receive results of my three-month CT scans. In the days leading up to the appointment, I kept checking my abdomen for any signs of lumps. My belly would tense as I probed and asked myself, "Scar tissue or cancer?"

Even as the doctor entered the room, I tried to read his expression and for a moment was certain the news was bad. "Your reports are fine," he quickly said after greeting me. I tried not to signal my relief too loudly.

In a post-cancer world, no matter how confident you try to feel about recovery, every ache or pain is a recurrence. I know that thought tendency will abate over time, but it is still hard to give myself permission to always believe I will be OK. As this last checkup approached, I chose not to ask for prayers in church for good results, and then feared I was being arrogant to put on a positive front that presumed I didn't still need such prayers.

I am very blessed, and I know many prayers for my health have been offered up whether I publicly requested them or not. I will be sharing my good results in church tomorrow and saying thanks for those who have kept me in their thoughts and prayers all along.