learning

It has been nearly 3 weeks since I finished my year of (nearly) daily blogging, and I think I can safely say that this year of learning to be grateful, even in the midst of some difficult circumstances, was preparation for the past two weeks, which have been the most difficult and painful that I’ve ever experienced. There have been days that, honestly, all I feel thankful for is that the day is over and I get to crawl, totally exhausted, into the biscuit with mojo and my sweet hubs. Some days are just that tough. But we have also had people reach out to us, pray for us, laugh and cry with us, and send encouraging words at the right moment without even knowing how desperately we needed them. I’m grateful for verses of the day that are what my heart needs, for friends who point me towards Jesus even when I feel hurt, and for those who aren’t afraid to walk into the mess to come beside us instead of offering platitudes from a safe distance. We are blessed to be so well loved. I am also extremely grateful for this weekend, which was restful and completely lacking in busy-ness. I am thankful for moments with my dear husband that felt like we were back to our normal, goofy selves, even if the moments were fleeting.

I am also so grateful for Harlow’s big milestone today-her first day of Kindergarten!

In March, when Harlow was diagnosed again, this day seemed only a vague possibility, as we knew Harlow would likely still be in treatment. While that is still true (she’s about halfway done with both her chemo and her 5 weeks of daily radiation), she is well enough to start school with the rest of her class and attend school for half days (at least). She is so strong. Happy first day of Kindergarten, sweet girl!