As I look back ~

Petunias & Verbena ~

2nd life in Summer 2008

The original diagnosis was apparently miscommunicated and/or misunderstood as today we learned Mother has "NON-SMALL CELL" carcinoma. This type of cancer is operable and the survival rate after surgery is high. It will be "LETHAL" and extremely painful without the surgery. There will be pain with the surgery but consistent with any surgery; this is the only choice for Mother and she agrees. The surgery will remove the tuor, lower (3rd) lobe of her right lung, along with a portion of her rib cage and with this, all of the cancer will be removed. Recovery time is minimal. I am always amazed at my Mother's perseverance, strength and courage. It was humbling to hear her say this evening that "the hardest part (of the cancer) is telling Mother." (~ my 94 year old Grandmother) How very selfless . . .

To Mother :

AS I LOOK BACK

As I look back on my life I find myself wondering, did I remember to thank you for all that you have done for me?

For all of the times you were by my side to help me celebrate my successes and accept my defeats?

Or for teaching me the value of hard work, good judgement, courage, and honesty?

I wonder if I've ever thanked you for the simple things, the laughter, smiles, and quiet times we've shared?

If I have forgotten to express my gratitude for any of these things, I am thanking you now and I am hoping that you've known all along, how very much you are loved and appreciated.

~Author Unknown~