Happy Birthday

Friday was my birthday.  It was one of the few times I was actually glad to be a year older.  I was happy, because I am a survivor. I  get tears when I think of my birthday  Last year I wondered if I would still be here. Count everyday as a blessing and use it to the best of your ability. My boys who are 17 and 22 brought me roses to school.  The class was so impressed.  I am proud of them and how they have handled all of this.  They also surprised me with a birthday present that was not what I expected.   This past 15 months have taught me that physical things are not important. They just get dusty, broke or put aside after awhile. Relationships are important. Spend time with your family. They are there through the hard times as well as the good.  It was also the anniversary of my lymphedemia.  Last year on my birthday the swelling began. It has been a long road of learning how to address the issues it creates, but I think I am beginning to understand how to control it.  I look back this past year and I am so thankful.      

Thursday I actually had my hair "styled".   I told everyone that I was getting a new look for my birthday.  The hair dresser charged me half price since it only took half the time.  I really only got the back shaped, since it was the longest(how do you say very short) and very little anywhere else.  I think it looks nice and since it has been a long time since I needed a haircut, it made me feel good.   I actually used a brush on my hair this morning.  The first time in 13 or so months! I only used it very lightly and sparsely.
Just as the waves crash against this coral, the water flows over and continues.  That how survivors handle life.  We might crash against the coral, but we keep on going.

Thanks for reading and I hope it is an encouragement to you.

Cathy