R and R

Day 72

It’s amazing to experience the power that a little rest and relaxation has to soothe the soul. Add love and generosity into the mix and you get a taste of what life is all about.

Just 2 weeks ago my sister and I were talking – sad that I’d miss a family get-together in Maine to celebrate my mom’s birthday. Karen’s mind got moving and she decided that more than any gift, Mom would love to have me there. A few short hours later Karen, my brother Jim (and his wife) and I had all pitched in toward plane tickets and I had plans to spend 4 days with my “northern” family.

Normally, this isn’t any big deal. My brother’s lake house is an hour from the camp where we spend our summers, and we’re able to spend time with family. But when life throws a curve ball, sometimes we learn that the things we so often take for granted are incredibly precious. Like hugging your mother on her birthday. And knowing that no matter what you do or say, you’re loved unconditionally. We sat by the lake, took a boat ride, played cards and games, and reminisced of days past – and I was pampered to the max!

The weather was spectacular, and I was able to spend a day with some of my camp friends, in the one place that brings me more peace and tranquility than any other in the world. I love living in Florida, but there’s nothing more beautiful than the lakes and mountains of New England (in the summer, lol). These friends have shown me heartfelt support and love, and kept me laughing, all summer – and they made me feel like a queen for the day.

I had lunch with my beloved friend Becky, who I attend Bible study with most years. I sat at the beach with a bunch of “the girls”, catching up and soaking in the sun, which was not quite as bright as the warmth of their love. As the day turned to dusk, my good friend Don took me out on a jet ski. This is my number one favorite activity (especially at that special time of day), and I can still see the beauty of the mountains against the setting sun, and feel the wind in my face as we glided through the gentle waves. I’ve probably been out on the lake hundreds of times, but I had a new appreciation for the beauty, as if seeing it for the first time. Before heading back to Maine I was treated to dinner at my favorite lake restaurant.

I’m home now, happy to be reunited with my husband, preparing for round 4 of chemo next week – with a renewed sense of joy and appreciation for the beautiful things in life. To all my family and friends that made the weekend the absolute best of my summer, I send gratitude and love from the bottom of my heart.

In love,