As the American Cancer Society often says, for Cancer patients and survivors, Happy Birthday is victory song.
Yesterday was mom's birthday which we celebrated today in conjunction with Father's Day as well as Grandpa Chase's birthday. We had a house packed with family and plenty of great picnic food; actually, there is still family here as I type.
I never thought of a birthday party as anything more than just that, a birthday party. Birthday parties, prior to today (for me at least), were a chance to catch up with my family and eat some of Grandma Cammy's delicious homemade cake. But today as I looked around the party, I realized that we were celebrating far more than delicious cake and good company.
Today was an opportunity to genuinely appreciate and celebrate my mom as a person. And being that it was Father's Day and Grandpa's birthday too, everyone took time out of their busy schedules to enjoy them too.
I think from here on out I will be far more appreciative of every birthday and holiday we can all spend together, even after mom is in remission!
...disclaimer...
...disclaimer...
what you are about to enjoy is extreme emotion. whether that emotion is joy, sadness, hope, weakness, strength, disappointment or elation, know that everything you read here is true. please feel free to post your thoughts :) they are much appreciated!
help me help fight Cancer one word at a time,
Danielle
Danielle, I'm so proud of you and the young woman you have become. You're an inspiration to your blog readers... and your Mom.
ReplyDeleteThis journey certainly has taught us not to take life for granted! We had a wonderful time last night. It was nice to have everyone together. The party lasted a bit longer than they usually do; maybe because we were enjoying one another's company or maybe because we were all basking in the moment that you spoke about! I believe everyone is enjoying our moments together just a little bit more. It's put life into perspective and we are less apt to take things for granted.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful, intelligent young woman YOU have become, by the way! You are much wiser than your age! I am so proud to call you my daughter! You are a big part of my strength, and I thank you for that! Whether it's a good day or a bad day, I can always count on your smile to light up my day! I love you bunches! <3
Danielle:
ReplyDeletePlease give your Mom a (belated) Happy Birthday HUG from me. God bless you all...you are in my prayers and thoughts.
Barbara Whiting
(Deirdre Wood's Mom)
P.S. I love your blogs, Danielle..and your Mom is so right about you.