it is well with my soul

I had my sixth chemo today, which means I only have two more left!  Although the side effects have seemed less and less after each treatment, I seem to be dreading chemo more and more each time.  I think it's because I know it's just going to make me feel sick, and honestly, I'm really sick of feeling sick!  But I've learned that I have to just take things one day at a time.  Regardless of my feelings on the subject, everything went well today.  Like always, I slept through most of my treatment and then came home and slept some more.

Getting chemo today

Although it was extremely difficult to leave my wonderful friends, coworkers, and church community in Atlanta, one blessing of being back in San Diego is the opportunity to spend more time with my family.  Two weekends ago, I took my first big outing.  My cousin Callie graduated from college in LA.  My Aunt Paula, Uncle Jeff, and cousin Kristie all flew out from the East Coast, and my Aunt Barbara, cousin Caitie, my parents, and I all drove up from San Diego to celebrate with her.  It was great to have so many members of our family together, since it doesn't happen too often.  On Monday night, my mom and I went out to dinner with my Aunt Paula.  Then on Tuesday night, we all went out to dinner for my Aunt Barbara's birthday.  I spent all day Saturday celebrating my Mom for mother's day.  And on Sunday, we had dinner with the majority of my Dad's side of the family to celebrate my Grandma on mother's day.

Celebrating my Mom for mother's day!

Out for dinner with Caitie

I still have a tiny bit of hair left, but because we went out to a few nice restaurants, I decided to wear my wig.  It feels pretty itchy and strange to be wearing fake hair, but when I look at photos of me wearing at it, I look like my usual self again!

It's been great to spend so much time with my family and, even though my brother wasn't able to come down this week, I have seen him much more often than I have the past few years.  Also, my cousin Caitie only lives a few minutes away so we have been able to hang out several times a week.  She even takes me to get my blood drawn every once in a while.  This year hasn't been the most enjoyable, but I am always aware that there are blessings hidden in every situation.  I encourage you to always look for the silver linings in your life.

xoxo
Lauren

"I have rejoiced greatly in the Lord that you have renewed your concern for me.  Indeed, you had been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.  I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  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 in want.  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.  Yet it is kind of you to share in my troubles."

- Philippians 4:10-14