The secret of content

Isn't this photo lovely? It was just made public. We girls attended this wedding on July 1. We were approached by the photographer, who said one of the groom's family had asked for our photo.

As I look at this captured moment, my brain is flooded with thoughts.

On this day, Bella was one day from turning 5 years old. 
Kate has my eyes.
Did the person who requested the photo want a picture of me in case I kick it?
Doggone, it's nice to have hair again.
Thank you, Jesus, that I am alive right now.

A couple of weeks ago, I negotiated a deal to stop Googling "triple negative breast cancer." Or "recurrence rates," "cancer of the spine" or "brain cancer." I go through spells where I cannot seem to consume enough information about What The Future Might Hold For Me. I told my husband I was going to make my c-word media blackout last a week.

"How about you make it a month," he asked with a grin. It was a pact.

When I look at a photo like this, I feel such a wave of thanksgiving that I am overwhelmed with how God has profoundly blessed me and our family. Whether the cancer ever comes back or not. Isn't that crazy cool?

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12-13

Although my daily prayer is for a long life with these girlies and my handsome hubs, I'm so glad to know that Jesus is the secret of contentedness. I frequently miss the mark in thought and deed, but I'm really glad to know where I should be looking.

This Friday I'll be checking in with my oncologist - part of the Full Meal Cancer Deal is that you get to see your cancer doc and surgeon twice a year each for a while. However, like I said to my husband a few nights ago: "How great not to be driving to Anchorage once a week for chemo, huh? Seriously! How great is THAT?!!"

Pretty marvelous indeed.