There are no words…

That can describe my feelings and emotions as I write this.  I am completely overwhelmed and the lump in my throat continues to take my breath away.

This is what was waiting for me on our dining room table upon arriving home at around noon on Friday.  You could have bowled me over with a feather.

I am not going to lie to you all but it’s taken me until this morning to feel well enough to open all your cards and gifts.  Thankfully, the nausea held off long enough to allow your many rays of sunshine in to brighten my day.

Of course Frankie had to check out what all the fuss was about and wouldn’t stand still for even a moment while I tried to snap a picture. 

I opened and read each and every greeting and sentiment and lingered upon each and every word.   Even now my eyes are red from the many tears of gratitude that were shed as I read them all.

And then…

This was the last gift that I opened this morning, probably because it was in the largest box and like a child at Christmas, I saved the biggest until last.  It’s a good thing that you weren’t all here because I totally lost it…but in a good way!  Mr. Painted Quilt is a pretty strong guy but he had tears in his eyes as well.  I have to share the words that were pre-printed on the card that accompanied the gift.

“Often it’s the time between treatments and tests,

bad days and good,

worry and relief

that can be the most challenging.

As you move through

this hard time,

 I hope you’ll find

moments of grace

when you need them most.

Thinking of you

and praying for good news.”

Thank you Jean.

I received a ton stuff including cards, fat quarters, sock yarn, wool, pin cushions, pillows, hearts, Valentine socks (the radiation technician gals are going to love them), a hand made fabric post card, magazines and a slew of ‘bits-and-bobs’. 

When I’m back at home and feeling better, I am planning to have a photo parade in order to share with you all the wonderful surprises that found there way here to our home in Nova Scotia.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!  I don’t know if I would have made it this far without you all.

Two weeks left!  My fifth and final chemo treatment is tomorrow then all that will remain are the final eleven radiation treatments.   It has NOT been an easy journey.  Along with the nausea and vomiting, I now have severe radiation burns that I’m told will only worsen during the last two weeks. 

However, I’m on the downside and there is no looking back now.  I’ve made it this far and have no intention of throwing in the towel.  Heck, I’ve got waaaay too much fabric and too many projects are just waiting to get started!  Besides, spring is just around the corner and I can’t wait to start playing in the dirt.

With much love, gratitude and affection,