It seems these days that my mom is never allowed to enjoy herself without reaping the awful consequences that come with the expenditure of the minimal amount of energy she has. Today she awoke feeling pretty terrible, one of the worse days yet, and boy...if I am feeling this frustrated with her pain level, I can't even imagine what it must feel like to be her. She is just so strong in so many ways...this cancer is like a layered, multifaceted, schizophrenic beast that never lays down to take a nap or hop on a plane to go on vacation.
On a more positive note, my mom had a wonderful weekend full of family, new and old friends alike, and even...drum role please...THE GYM! On Friday night my boyfriend, Mark and I decided to help my parents celebrate their 33rd wedding anniversary by making them a delicious dinner of flank steak smothered in home made bbq sauce, sauteed spinach and broccoli in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and lemon zest, and some roasted sweet potato and yam medallions with a simple salt, pepper, and olive oil dressing. It was a night full of good food and laughter, (my moms two favorite things) and a perfect mellow way to start the weekend.
Saturday and Sunday were just as enjoyable, with the gym on Sunday morning and a bridal shower in the afternoon. She has expressed numerous times how much fun she had seeing her friends and being able to get out for the afternoon looking all dolled up.
Thank you to everyone who has been a constant support system for me and my family...we truly feel so blessed and loved by families and loved ones from the west coast all the way to the east! We love you...
xoxo
Ali
Wow, you both look so beautiful!!! Hang in there Ariel, you can do it.
ReplyDeleteLove you lots! Polly
Hi~
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful picture! You guys look like magazine material.
Happy 33rd Anniversary last weekend. Sounds like you were treated to a wonderful meal....way to go Ali and Mark!!
I hope that you have a good week, feeling better each day. Rest and enjoy your fabulous, loving family.
Take care,
Love, Sandi
Dear Ariel,
ReplyDeleteI saw this the other day and thought of you! Keep up the fight and stay strong. I am so proud of you!!!
What Cancer Can't do
Cancer is so limited
It cannot cripple love
It cannot shatter hope
It cannot erode faith
It cannot eat away peace
It cannot destroy confidence
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot shut out memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot reduce eternal life
It cannot quench the spirit
It cannot lesson the power of the resurrection
Hugs and prayers,
Patty
That is a beautiful picture...you two cuties! Yummy menu Ali and Mark! I'm glad you had a good weekend. Now if that "schizophrenic beast" could just be tamed! (Ali, great description!) What we all wouldn't give to wish your pain away...I keep praying for more of those good days... Hang in there and keep the faith...Lots of love to you all,
ReplyDeleteLisa
Dear Ariel,
ReplyDeleteJust wanted tio let you know that I am thinking of you. From the looks of it, you are in very good hands with such a loving and devoted family! The picture of you and Ali is beautiful. And Happy 33rd anniversary! Now that is something to celebrate! Not sure if you are up for company....but I hope to see you soon....
Lots of Love and healing wishes,
Laurie