This past weekend marked our family’s final week of normalcy, at least our old normal. The cancer community loves to use the term “new normal” when describing what the next year’s worth of rhythms will be. I used the term too when I worked in medical social work, so I don’t fault the theory. I’m only now realizing I am protective about what my kids consider normal. I don’t like the term, “new normal”. I need a better phrase.

We took the kiddos to a local indoor waterpark this weekend for a fun staycation. We called it our “calm before the storm” trip. We wanted one last family experience without cancer threatening some part of it. It’s safe to say everyone had a blast. At one point I was going down a waterslide with Annie (4) in a double tube. She started screaming with laughter “best day ever!! best day ever!!”. That was the moment I needed. Those 10 seconds made every negative emotion in my body disappear.

This week is full of “prep” appointments. Tennessee also decided to drop 6in of snow on us today which means our city shuts down for a week and the kids will be home from school, A LOT. I am trying my best to see this extra time with my kids this week a gift and not extra stress. Will you pray that for me? Help me savor the moments with them and not get caught up in what needs to be accomplished.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to those who have reached out and supported us with whatever you felt called to give. For some it’s been signing up to be a stem cell donor, prayers, meals, gift cards, margaritas and cheese dip, childcare, carpool, inviting my kids to activities, flowers, funny parenting memes and simply reaching out to tell me you’re angry with me.

I’m so grateful God did not allow us to move from our support system. A lot has rattled my faith but there’s one thing I know for sure. We never sold our house for a reason. (we were in the process of selling it to the company) Something that was so frustrating to us back in October, is now our GREATEST blessing. My kids have their home. Our family has our community. God knew what was coming and in His kindness didn’t make us go through it alone.  I don’t even have words for that, just tears of gratitude.

Thank you for being a part of my healing journey

Danielle