Good news, pretty much

The results of the MRI/CT scans came back today. There is no evidence of metatastic cancer in the blood work or scans (WOO HOO!!). There is, however, a 3.2 cm seemingly benign "mass" on my spine.

I received this info on my cell phone by text from my oncologist. This type of communication might turn off some people but I appreciate how quickly I am able to dialogue with him.

"Yikes?" I texted back.

He wrote that he feels pretty confident that this is nothing to worry about. We'll be doing a follow-up MRI in about four weeks just to be certain.

My hubby and I are not overly worried about it. But if you think of it, please join us in praying that this "thing" (my oncologist's technical term for it) is as harmless as it appears right now.

Getting our balance back

We are still bathing in the glow of Hawaii.

Wallowing in the warmth, surrounded by the lush green and gorgeous beaches, was nothing short of divine. The break from our state's frigidity was a TREAT and after 2012's wild tilt-a-whirl ride, it was so incredibly needed. I told my hubby after a few days of sun: "I can feel an almost physical shift happening inside of me. What IS that?"

It took me a bit to realize that this is what rediscovering our equilibrium felt like.

We drank in the family time, and every thrilling discovery we made along the way. Turtles, lava tubes, geckos, fantastic snorkeling - ahhhhhhh. It was perfect. Here's some photo awesomeness:

"Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.'"James 4:13-15

This week I'm going in for an MRI and maybe CT scan. We're hopeful for continued good news - I pray that if it's God's will, my life will be long and cancer free. I have many ideas for fabulous slumber parts for these girls, and momma-daughter shopping trips! I'm thanking God for His continued grace-filled provision along the way, and will post the results of my scan the same day I get them myself.

A year ago

Wow: 365 days ago today, I was given that glorious diagnosis that plunked me onto an entirely new course that I wasn't expecting. Not just me, but my two gorgeous girls and beautiful husband. My hubby and I both agree that it feels like five years have passed instead of just one - so, so much driving, feeling utterly exhausted and thinking about cancer!

Thusly, I am especially thankful to be celebrating this "anniversary" in Kona, where we are reveling in being cancer free and God's awesome provision to our family. On beaches. In the sun. Tomorrow, in lava tubes!

May your 2013 be full of excellent health.