Gifts!

Many things have surprised us through this journey so far to say the least! If one thing has stuck out the most to Pat and me, it is how generous people have been to those of us who are suffering. It has definitely hit Pat and I hard. It has taught us how we can use our resources better to help others in need. Literally, almost EVERY single day we receive some sort of surprise from people we know and even those we don't know. We are so grateful for every single gift. Here are just two examples that can help brighten a friend of yours in time of need!

First, this gift many of you contributed to. I'm still reading through them (I can't make it very far without crying!!). My amazing SIL, Angela, organized this gift and put a lot of hard work into it! She asked you all to leave a comment for me on her blog so she could put together a scripture/encouragement ring. She also consolidated comments that my mom received from Facebook. She made it look so pretty and bright. Here's the finished product:

The second gift I want to share is one from my maternal grandma, Granny Pat! Let me just say that she has given me a special gift every time I left NWA for Houston, which has been at least 5 times! She even bought Pat some fancy after-shave to impress the nurses because I got a pedicure to impress the doctors!

Here's her latest gift idea. She made me a cute reversible bag in bright colors and filled it with 30 individually wrapped gifts. The premise of this gift is that everyday after my radiation treatment I get to open one gift. This gives me something to look forward to after I finish my treatment for that day. Is that not a great idea? So far I have opened lip glosses, kitchen gadgets, fingernail polish, fancy chocolates, pj's, slippers, etc. So much fun! Here's a picture of a 1/2 empty radiation goodie bag:

Like I said, these are just two of the many gifts we have received over this 3 month journey. We are so so so thankful to everyone for helping us out and brightening our days!

Quick update on me: Sort of started out as a sad day because I found my first patch of hair-loss from radiation. Bummer! But still praying that I don't lose anymore. I can still cover this patch up for the most part. It is pretty close to my scar which still doesn't have much hair on it yet. I will try to get up enough courage soon to take a picture (it has more to do more with my chubby cheeks than the hair!!). I have also been hit with more nausea and tiredness these last couple of days. Tomorrow I will be 1/2 way through my radiation treatment, so this is about the time I should expect to get these symptoms. Still trying to remain positive and get plenty of rest!

Thanks again for all the support and encouragement. My mom and I miss you all and are ready to be back in NWA!