Today Is: Laughter is the Best Medicine Day

“The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves.” – Helen Keller

“Give me your laugh. Whether it’s mischievous, tender, loud, or quiet, simply give me a laugh from your heart. Your laughter brings me never-ending joy.” – Helmut Walch

In an effort to keep my spirits up after my surgery I was given the newest Ellen DeGeneres book titled, “Seriously… I’m Kidding” from one of my most dear friends, Laura. She told me that she figured I could use something to laugh about, and she was so right. As I read through that book I laughed often at the hilarious writing style that Ellen uses; seeking comedy to cure some of life’s most troubled ailments is nothing short of genius. There have been times in my recovery process that I have found myself sour about my current circumstances spending days upon end laying on the couch or propped up in my bed while getting my six hours of the CPM machine in is anything but funny. However, it is in these moments that I am reminded that I must seek the hilarity in my situation; I must find something to laugh at, even if it’s myself. Although this may seem like it could be a difficult task, poking fun at myself, it’s much easier than many of you may think (ha ha). Every day I am greeted with something that allows me a good hearty laugh, whether it’s trying to put my socks and shoes on by myself, or climbing in and out of the bathtub on one good leg, or even the times when I hurt myself doing something moronic, there is plenty of moments of laughter! They say that laughter is the best medicine, and I couldn’t agree more. With each laugh, or bad joke that I tell, something happens inside me. My mouth curves into a smile and I can feel my insides are smiling too, and with each laugh, I feel better.

Some may say I laugh too much, or maybe that I laugh at everything, I would probably have to agree. I tend to laugh at any opportunity that I can, and in almost everything I am able to find something funny with it. To some, this trait may seem faulty or fake, however to me; it’s how I take on the world. Laughter is what makes my world go round and my hope is that you, whoever you are dear reader, are able to find something funny today, even if it means laughing at yourself. Life is too short to be so serious, so why not jump on board the laugh-around and go for a hilarious ride; admission: Share with me in laughter!

(As I mentioned Ellen’s book was hilarious, so I thought I would share a few of my favorite parts that made me LOL!

How to Be a Supermodel

One: The Look
Always look like you’re angry at the universe for making you too pretty

Two: The Walk
Trot. Aggressively, like you’re a horse that’s trying to avoid puddles.

Five: The Pose
Be mysterious. Always pose with one hand in your pocket as if to say, “I’m so mysterious, this hand in my pocket could be a hook hand. You don’t know.”

Journal Entries
Dear Journal,
What an exciting day. Remember I told you about all that gold I mailed in for cash? Guess what! The money arrived today, I got $1.24!

My Bucket List
1. Buy more buckets
2. …
3. Wear more white
4. …
5. …
6. …
7. …
8. Call more people rascal
I won’t reveal any more of her hilarities but if you found any of that funny, you should go out and buy the book! It’s worth the comedic release!

“God pulls for us. He suffers with us. And you can bet that when we laugh, He laughs with us.” – Pam Kidd

“Laughter is an instant vacation.” – Milton Berle

“That is the best – to laugh with someone because you both think the same things are funny.” – Gloria Vanderbilt

Today Is: It's Tebow Time Day

You don’t have to be great to get started, but you have to get started to be great.” – Les Brown

“There are no gains without pains.” – Benjamin Franklin

As we sat around the dinner table last night we discussed in great detail one of life’s greatest gifts… sports. I grew up in a family that not only played sports but watched sports like it was their J.O.B. Ever since I was a little girl I was always a huge fan of the Denver Broncos and Shannon Sharpe. (Sharpe is and will always be my favorite player, not only for his athletic abilities on the field, but for his candid personality off the field.) I guess you could say I was and still am a daddy’s girl. When I was younger the Denver Broncos had what I would call the “dream team”; with Elway, Sharpe, Davis, McCafferey, Smith and the modern day Orange Crush, we were close to being unstoppable. After our second Super Bowl win in ’98 I thought we were going to set the record the following year by becoming the only team in NFL history to ever win 3 consecutive Super Bowls that was until Elway decided he had had enough and retired. Elway’s retirement came before the days of Brett Farve’s, in which I did not find hope that he would reconsider and come out of retirement. (in some ways I wish he would have, but I’m really glad we didn’t have the Elway saga like the Packers had with Farve) With that being said, since Elway’s farewell the Broncos have been short of extraordinary. We’ve had a few decent years here and there, and I must mention that although we weren’t going to win a Super Bowl with Jake the Snake, the guy was a player to be proud of, however since he traded his career in football to play professional handball, I haven’t been impressed with our quarterbacks since. I could never come to rally around Griseball, and the only time that I wouldn’t watch the Broncos was when Gus Ferrotte trotted onto the field, we’ve made some improvements towards better QB’s I guess you could say since then… Kyle Orton had a few decent seasons but never made me feel as if we could win it all and so here we are, in the middle of the 2011 season with a 1-4 record (barely pulling out our one win) and we are scheduled to face off this coming Sunday against the (0-5) Miami Dolphins with our newly appointed QB the much anticipated Tim Tebow. I have to admit, I am a Tim Tebow fan as much as the rest of the Bronco country is. What is there not to like about the guy; I guess besides his throwing technique. He’s a class act and at least provides some sense of excitement and passion towards the game; from what I’ve seen, he also seems to be one of the most determined players for success. I know that I have heard all about Tebow’s late release and inability to throw the ball accurately, but I am excited despite the naysayers and critics because I believe in someone who believes in themselves. I know that to win games it’s going to take more than just believing, but you have to believe in order to achieve. So as this coming Sunday approaches, Bronco fans it’s time to put on your Broncos gear, pop your popcorn and find a seat in front of the T.V. as I think this Sunday is going to be a show you’re not going to want to miss. It’s TEBOW TIME BABY; make us all believers!

“Your determination will bring you much success.” -- unknown

“I always felt that my greatest asset was not my physical ability, it was my mental ability.” – Bruce Jenner

“Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” -- unknown

Today Is: Let FAITH Guide You and Don’t Let FEAR Inside You Day

“There are lots of times I’ve been sure God’s left me. But then it turns out I was just looking in the wrong places.” – Jodi Picoult “Sing You Home”

“We shall find peace. We shall hear angels.” – Mother Teresa

She softly lays her head down on the pillow as her eyes fall s hut.
Just as she’s about to fall asleep she hears “the voice” utter “But?”

The question rolls inside her head and the feelings of comfort and security are quickly replaced with uncertainty and dread.

“What will I do now for I’ve spent almost all I’ve ever earned?
Yet my wallet is still empty and I’ve got nothing to show for my talents in return.”

FEAR tells her to be worried and to doubt her own abilities
But what she doesn’t know yet is that FEAR fears itself and FAITH is FEAR’s worst enemy.
For FAITH is the only one able to silence the voice of FEAR.
FAITH is the voice that need not speak a syllable
But FAITH’s voice will be the only one you’ll hear.

Your son was in a terrible accident!” the doctor quietly cried.
“He is in very critical condition; we’re just trying to keep his wounded heart alive.”

The man grips his phone tightly as his heart rapidly picks up its pace
You could see that FEAR had taken over; it was written in the grimace that appeared upon his face.
No promises were made, no assurances that he would make it through.
That was all FEAR needed it was at this moment that FEAR knew just what to do.
The man bowed his head as tears rapidly spilled from his saddened eyes.
FEAR told him his son wasn’t going to live, but FAITH stepped in and made him realize.

Now’s the time to trust in Him, for He’ll know what to do
Cast all your worries aside for FAITH will see you through.
When you feel robbed of your heart’s possessions; love and life taken from you at a deadly cost
FAITH is the only map that will guide you home; no longer are you lost.

As the last drops hit his lips, the bottle lies empty on the floor
He drinks in fear that this is all there is, that this life could not entail anything worth living for.
Every day his thoughts are invaded by FEAR’s invasive and reckless course
He turns to the poison in the bottle and slowly tries to drink away his remorse.

FEAR makes him feel guilty, unworthy and alone
It’s FAITH that comes to his rescue and chills this young man to the bone.

“Throw down the bottle and leave this all behind,” FAITH softly pleads.

FAITH has joined his hand with His and brought him to his knees.
And as his knees surrender, his hands come together in clasp too
He realizes that FAITH has brought him to his Father
And that his Father will see him through.

There may come times when it may seem that your Father cannot be found
At those moments in life turn to FAITH and you will suddenly understand that He is always around.
So the next time FEAR comes and knocks upon your door
Let FAITH answer to tell FEAR that it’s not welcome here anymore.

“Faith believes in spite of the circumstances and acts in spite of the consequences.” – Adrian Rogers

“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, ‘Here I am…’”—Isiah 58:9

“It’s not the absence of storms that sets us apart. It’s who we discover in the storm.”—Max Lucado

Today Is: Settle For Nothing but the BEST! Day

“Sometimes you hear a voice through the door calling you… This turning toward what you love saves you.” – Rumi “A Voice Through the Door”

“Good enough never is.” – Debbi Field

“I realized today is the day I write my own story.” – unknown

With all the spare time that I have during my days right now I have had plenty of time to catch up on my reading and as with each month, I look forward to reading the month’s Oprah Magazine. For the last couple of weeks I have been eagerly questioning my mom if she saw the magazine in the mail, each day she would respond with, “It still hasn’t come!” Just as I started thinking that it must be time to renew my subscription, it arrived! I was eager to read this month’s magazine even before it came, but after I saw the Cover Title, “Find Your True Calling!” I was even more ecstatic as I knew it would come with words of encouragement and inspiration; yet again I was not disappointed.

“We all hope to spend our lives doing what we love most – but that doesn’t mean that we have to do it for a living. Whether you’ve got plenty of time to yourself or not nearly enough… using it to pursue what interests you can be as rewarding as any dream job.” As much as I agree with this statement from Oprah I also have to disagree. When I tell people my hope is to one day be working in my dream job I cannot tell you how many times I’ve heard people make comments such as, “It’s not very often that you get to do what you love for a living.” Why is this? I often ask myself. Why do we tend to settle for anything but the best for ourselves? Why do we settle in jobs that don’t allow us to express who we are; we settle for jobs that do not bring us alive; jobs that don’t make us any better of a person which in turn doesn’t make the world better. Anytime we settle for anything in life, from my own experiences at least, I have later come to find out that I am not at my most joyful self. I am not fully alive in these moments of “good enough” I just am. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes it takes a moment of settlement to understand what it is that you are truly striving for, in such moments you may come into yourself understanding that what you have is not enough, nor will ever be enough, until you follow your heart and your dreams. I am grateful to say that this has happened to me. I will not say with regret that I have settled for many things, including love, jobs and life itself, however I can say that if it were not for these moments that I “settled” I would not be able to understand what it truly means to follow my dreams. It is because of such moments that I can look back with gratitude for the lessons that I learned along the way and it is with grace that I know that my future will not allow me to settle. I want the best and I am going to do everything that I can to achieve that. Today is the day that I must begin to write the story of my so called life; for today is just the beginning of something great!

“I knew that I would die unfulfilled if I did not turn myself inside out and go to the limits of my creative ability.” – Gay Hendricks “Five Wishes”

“Your dream has its own heartbeat. Listen for it…” – Deb Walsh

“Live by design, not by accident.” – Martha Beck

“You can only become truly accomplished at something you love.
Don’t make money your goal.
Instead, pursue the things you love doing, and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off of you.” – Maya Angelou

Today Is: Enjoy The Moment Day

“Life loves to be taken by the lapel and told, ‘I’m with you kid, let’s go.’” – Maya Angelou

“Today is your day to paint life in bold colors, set today’s rhythm with your heart – drum, walk today’s march with courage, create today as your celebration of life.” – Johnathan Lockwood Huie

“Today I choose to create joy in my life. Whatever my external circumstances, I choose to see all of life through joyful eyes.” -- unknown

This morning I awoke contemplating a million thoughts in my mind, asking questions that I am still unclear of the answers and wondering what now? After much time spent lying in my bed as these thoughts rolled around with me, I got up and went downstairs for some much needed brain food. As I sat eating my breakfast I scanned the Sunday paper that lay before me. My Pops is a Sudoku fanatic and as part of his daily routine he attempts to complete the puzzle, so there it was, the paper lying open to the page of ASK AMY? Sudoku and Crossword puzzles and horoscopes. Now I’m not one to typically check my horoscope, but today it caught my eye and I thought, why not! Since I’m a Capricorn, I had four stars (which I hear is a good thing) and my horoscope read pretty positively but as usual I didn’t find myself overly intrigued or amped up about the day ahead from my zodiac sign reading; that was until I read this: “Enjoy the moment”

“Enjoy the moment” I re-read it to myself and I could feel the curves of my mouth turn up into a smile; I was enjoying the moment now but this message demanded more, this message meant so much more to me. Have you ever wondered to yourself if what you are doing in your current life is what you were destined to be doing? I think about it constantly, probably because I know that what I am doing currently is not what I was made to do, however what I am pursuing is much more what I was put on this earth to accomplish. As I read these words I thought about one of the prayers that I threw up to God last night, “Please give me a sign”. Who knew it would come in the form of a literal sign (zodiac sign) but none-the-less I am grateful. I feel that these three words were exactly what I needed to hear, this was my sign… Enjoy the moment!

When you think that you have done all that there is to do think again and know that there is a whole world out there waiting for you. But until the time is right and you’re packed and on your way, you must learn to enjoy the moment and celebrate today!

ENJOY THE MOMENT!!!

“Time has a wonderful way of showing us what really matters.” – Margaret Peters

“Lift your cup of hot tea to the sky and declare, ‘Let the wonders begin.’” – Jill Badonsky “The Awe-Manac – A Daily Dose of Wonder”

Today Is: Livin' The Suite Life Day

“Awakening to the sweetness of life that is there every day.” – Jill Badonsky “The Awe-Manac ~A Daily Dose of Wonder”

“And, by the way, unpack your grandmother’s china that you’ve been saving for a special occasion. Use it for everyday meals. Being alive is the special occasion.” – Patti Digh “Life is a Verb”

Sometimes in life you experience something and as you do you think to yourself, this is a rare occasion. I had one of those moments today as I sat inside a suite at the CSU vs. Boise State football game. The weather was perfect, the stadium was packed and the teams were ready for kickoff; I scanned the room and was grateful to be surrounded by many that I love and I thought to myself, “I’m living the suite life.” As the game began, what was occurring on the field became apparent that it was going to be a time that me and my fellow Ram fans would all soon hope to forget rather than reminisce for ages, but inside the suite is a moment that I hope I can be reminded of forever.

For it was at this moment that I looked around at where I was, who I was with and what I was given the opportunity to partake in and I thought, this is what life is all about, spending it with the ones you love. Too often in life our minds are consumed with things that have no real intrinsic value; they bring nothing to our lives other than maybe status and style. I know that I have found myself at times caught up in the “I need ________” to be happy, however it is times like this, times when we are presented with something that makes us realize how precious life is and how quickly it can be taken from us, that we are given the greatest gift of all, the gift of life and love.

I was told yesterday about a woman who posted “I love you” on her friends Facebook wall, words she rarely expresses to those she loves but wanted to be sure that her friends knew the way she felt about them. She understood that life is too short to not tell those you love how much they mean to you, and what better time than now to do so. As I listened to this story I began to think about all of my friends, family and loved ones who I love so much but too often times forget to tell them how much they mean to me or show them how much I care about them. This was a great reminder to me, that even during our toughest times in life we are presented with some of the greatest blessings; life lessons.

Tonight’s life lesson: Never forget to tell those you love how much you love them, not just today but every day and always. Never pass up the opportunity to say I love you. Never shy away from saying what you really mean because you never know when or if you’ll ever be given the chance to express those feelings again. Never pass up on life; life is too short to take it for granted, live life to the fullest everyday! And don’t wait for that special occasion to do something special for someone, every day that we are alive and well is a special day; don’t take them for granted. So put away your dust rag, pull out the fancy china, pop that expensive champagne and toast to this life as you know it. Oh and always remember… I LOVE YOU!

“Don’t wait for a special occasion. Today is special.” – unknown

“We all need to do a better job of listening to that gentle whisper from a God who daily reminds us to enjoy the sacred moments with those we love… They are the moments we will look back on with either regret or a smile.
Either way, the memory will last forever.” – Tony Dungy “Uncommon”

“What’s important to me now are the moments of ordinary life that are made extraordinary through feeling a unity of consciousness that connects us all.” – Gay Hendericks “Five Wishes”

Today Is: What Has Fear Done For You Lately? Day

“Courage is fear that has said its prayers.” – Max Lucado “Fearless”

“It’s okay to be afraid, it’s not okay to let the fear stop you.” – Venita Ray “A Piece of Cake”

FEAR allowed you to pass up an opportunity, keep quiet when you knew you should speak up, and quit before you failed.

FEAR got you to judge before you knew them, question his motives when he called and cry instead of laugh.

FEAR had you believing that you would never make it, that the world was a scary and dangerous place, and that growing old is horrifying.

FEAR never got you a job, a date, your first kiss or a scraped knee.

FEAR never allowed you to write a book, run for election, talk to a stranger, or run in a race.

FEAR never pushed you to sing karaoke, speak in front of a crowd, tell a joke, or try out for the team.

What has FEAR done for you?

If FEAR hasn’t helped you do any of those things, what has?

FAITH

FAITH opened the door to your golden opportunity, helped you speak up for what you believe in, and kept you going each time you failed.

FAITH turned strangers into friends, helped you trust your instincts when he called, and made you laugh so hard you cried.

FAITH made you believe that you would make it, that the world is a safe place, and that life, like wine, only gets better with age.

FAITH brought you to your dream job, found you your one true love, and taught you to ride your bike on your own.

FAITH published your book, got you elected, found your best friend, and helped you cross the finish line.

FAITH made you sing outside the shower, made you into a motivational speaker, made others laugh with you, and brought home your first team trophy.

FEAR has never done anything for you, but look at all FAITH has done.

FEAR tells you to be worried and to doubt His ability.

FEAR holds tightly to discomfort but FEAR fears itself you see.

FAITH is the only way to silence the voice of FEAR

FAITH is the only thing that will bring you comfort and it will remind you that He loves you unconditionally my dear.

So when you begin to question or lose your faith in times of struggle think about this…

What has FEAR done for you lately?

“Faith never knows where it is being led, but it knows and loves the one who is leading.” – W.M. Paul Young “The Shack”

“As is often the case with faith, I thought I was being asked a favor, when in fact I was being given one.” – Mitch Albom “Have a Little Faith”

Today Is: I Don't Understand? Day

“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” – Marie Curie

“Amidst adversity, remember that positive outcomes are easier to see with your head up.” – Christopher Novak

Stage 3 cancer… the “C” word… a word you never want to hear when associated with a loved one but unfortunately that is exactly what I heard today. She has stage 3 cancer, how could this be? I don’t understand? It’s not fair? Why? Why her? Why cancer? Why this family? Why now? Why ever? Why anyone? Cancer leaves me with a lot of questions and it always keeps me wondering and questioning my faith. If there is a God how could he let this happen to her, to this family; again? Why would a loving God allow them to suffer like this? I cannot understand it. Even though I am a firm believer in everything happens for a reason, I find myself now, questioning God and his reasoning on this. What good can come from this I wonder? My eyes turn toward the ceiling, my fists clinch in rage and I weep, demanding to know the answers to all of my questions, unsure that any answer will suffice. No answer, I fear, will settle my anger, calm my fears, or provide me with peace. No answer can wipe away the tears that stream down my cheeks, no answer can make this easier for anyone.

“Who said life was ever going to be easy?” “the voice” boldly says over my anger. “I didn’t promise anyone an easy or unaltered path. No! I promised that there would be challenges; that you would meet hard times and that life would knock you down; but I also promised that I would be there to lift you after you fall and I would provide you with the strength you needed to stand. I promised that I would give you nothing you couldn’t handle and that I would never leave you. I never promised that this journey was going to be without challenge, but I can promise you that through the darkness comes the light. And you may find yourself in the dark right now but may you never forget that I stand beside thee to guide you with my light. Be not afraid.”

Although my unanswered questions ring loudly in my ears, and my heart hurts with sadness I feel my faith grow stronger in this moment knowing that she and all those she loves and who love her are being held carefully in his hands and now is not the time to be afraid nor continue to question and turn your back to him. Instead now is the time to grow unbearably strong together and believe with all of your heart in the power of prayer.

“Here bring your wounded hearts, here tell your anguish; earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.” – Thomas Moore

“May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain… so that you will reach out your hand to comfort them and change their pain into joy.” – A Franciscan Benediction

Today Is: God's Tiniest Miracles Day

“Just when you think you know love, something little comes along to remind you just how BIG it really is.” – unknown

“Today is a good day to welcome the unexpected, celebrate the way its plans unfold.” – M.H. Clark “I Am Her”

The very proud and excited grandparents, celebrating the great news!












It’s the times in life that I seem to have things all figured out and then suddenly everything that I had planned no longer is. Often times this brings great frustration or disappointment as it seems that in such moments I seem to find myself totally off course because of failures, set-backs and disappointments. This time, however, is different, this moment that my train has once again derailed is because of something wonderful, something that only God could have a hand in, this time it’s nothing short of a miracle! I’m going to be an aunt! There are few things that I want more than anything else in life and being an aunt is one of those special gifts. In preparation for my little niece or nephew’s (sex unknown) arrival I figured I wanted to share a few words of that I think he or she should know. (Of course they will probably not understand until many years later but I plan to write anyway.)

Hello my precious little niece or maybe nephew,
I wish that I could express to you right away how much I already love you; I don’t even have to know you to love you because anything that your mom and dad created is going to be something that I love and you my special one are nothing short of a miracle. In case your mom and dad forget to tell you, I have been waiting for your arrival for many years now (5 to be exact); when I got the news that you would be coming in the next 9 months I could feel my heart flutter with excitement and my mind was overwhelmed with sheer happiness. Without you, my little bundle of joy, my life would not be the same and I am forever grateful for that. I cannot wait to share in life together, to see you open your eyes for the first time and look into mine, the very thought of it just moves me to tears. (Tears of joy that is) To hold you in my arms and feel your little body cradled against mine, to feel the pitter patter of your heart, and to listen to the soft sounds of your breath, I can only imagine what that moment will feel like but I can assure you it will be unforgettable. I hope you know that although I may not be around at first my absence is not due to lack of love. Before you came along, I had made plans to journey over to Africa in an effort to fulfill a life purpose of working with children in need. I hope one day you will understand my need to leave and forgive me for not being present for some of your life’s first big moments. I am unsure of my return at the moment but this I know for sure, I will love you just as much from one continent to another or one state to another. No matter where we are I will always love you and you will always be more than special to me; again you are a very exceptional gift delivered from God. I cannot wait to meet you and hold you in my arms. Until then… be good child! I love you so much already, thank you for making my life so much more wonderful.

I love you with all my heart,
Your Aunt Ang (or whatever you want to call me)

“My love waits for you.” -- unknown

“Children are a gift from God.” – Mother Teresa

Today Is: How You Play the Game Day

“The trick is not how much pain you feel but how much joy you feel. Any idiot can feel pain. Life is full of excuses to feel pain, excuses not to live, excuses, excuses, excuses.” – Erica Jong

“We can’t change the cards we were dealt, just how you play the hand.” – Randy Pausch “The Last Lecture”

“Just because we’ve been… dealt a certain hand… it doesn’t mean that we can’t choose to rise above – to conquer the boundaries of a destiny that none of us wanted.” – Stephanie Meyer “Twilight”

I’ve heard it said before that life is not about the hand your dealt but simply how you play the game. Sometimes in our lives we are dealt the best hand imaginable while other times it’s everything short of a royal flush. And much like in the game of poker, the losing hands we’re dealt are what make the wins that much more wonderful. The challenges in life tend to teach the lessons that allow us to in time understand the joys. As I am approaching the two week post-surgery mark I have some days that feel like the royal flush and then there’s some that I’d rather just flush out of my memory, however it seems during my toughest days and in my most painful times I’m awarded with the greatest prize of all… a life lesson. As I agonized in pain today, allowing my knee some therapy in the CRM machine (a machine that was described to me as physical therapy without the therapy; something I must use at least 6 hours out of the day) I laid and watched TV. While doing so I witnessed a man talking about a bowtie that he was wearing that represented spinal curve disease. He told the audience that when he was seventeen he underwent surgery to straighten out his spine and his fifteen year old daughter had just undergone the same treatment so tonight he was wearing the bowtie in her honor. As I listened to him say this, I spoke my thoughts out loud, “See, I could be having spinal surgery. It could be worse.”

When dealt this hand I thought I had been given the worst, yet it turned out to be a much better hand after the flop, I guess it’s true; life is all about how you play the game.

“Thank you God for giving me many challenges but the eyes to see the blessings.” – unknown

“Step through the pain I will make you something great.” – Gil Jones

Today Is: It's the SMALL Things In Life Day

“I’m always careful to see my glass half full because if I see my glass half empty, with no hope at all, it may as well be empty all the way.” – Mattie Stepanek

Today… What a day! After yesterday’s disastrous feelings of pain and uncomfortableness I was delighted when I woke up this morning (at 4 a.m.) to find myself feeling healthy and well. I could feel it early on that today was going to be a good day. (God must have heard my prayers) For starters I got out of the house and I felt the fall air as the warm rays of sun settled against my skin and the brisk October air breezed through my hair. It was great to get off the couch and out of the house (even if it meant that I had to go to the doctor’s office) The doctor’s visit turned out to be another joyous occasion; the doc said the incisions were looking good the screws they put in were straight and in place and the swelling was much less than the first time I had seen him before any of my surgeries (at which point my knee was close to the size of a cantaloupe); things were sure looking up! All that and then he told me I could remove my dressing, take off the thigh high nylon sleeve and take a shower (for someone who has been taking sponge baths for the past 12 days, some of which were given by my mother, the idea of showering is close to the excitement of Christmas morning) I turned to my mom as the doctor left the room and said, “It’s the small things in life.”
It’s true, at times in life, especially in times of struggle, it can become difficult to find joy among sorrow or happiness through the pain, however if you can celebrate the small victories and the little things in life that provide you with that joy, those small things suddenly begin to add up and you begin to find yourself in the midst of overwhelming happiness. Like they say, good things come in small packages!

“… to feel joy, we have to trust the moment and welcome it in its fullness for what it is. We have to be willing to acknowledge that we are often not in control – and to celebrate the good fortune in this. And we have to feel worthy of having joy in our lives.” – Oriah “The Invitation”

Today Is: Thank You Is Not Enough Day

“A doctor’s mission should be not just to prevent death but to improve the quality of life. That’s why you treat a disease, you win, you lose. You treat a person, I guarantee you, you win, no matter what the outcome.” – excerpt from Patch Adams

“Let no one ever come to you without leaving better.” -- Mother Teresa

How are you ever able to repay someone who does so much? How can you ever give them what they have given you? How can you show your appreciation for someone who goes above and beyond always? The words thank you will never be enough for they cannot even begin to describe the gratitude and gratefulness that I have for my parents. My parents are and have always been wonderful to me, even though at times I might not have appreciated them like I should have. As I have gotten older I am not only able to appreciate them like I should, but now I understand them not only as my parents but as my friends. They have done more for me than I could ever expect and they have given me everything and more that I have always wanted. They’ve been there for me through my great times and they have been there for me through my toughest times too. I can only imagine what it must be like to have a child, since I have not been blessed with one of my own, and I can only imagine the great joy a parent must feel when they see their children living happy, purposeful lives, that are full of so much love and exuberant bliss; and I can only begin to think of the pain that they must feel when their child is suffering, or unhappy; from what I see from my own parents, to watch your own child suffer darn near breaks your heart. This knee surgery is without a doubt one of the toughest physical challenges I have ever been dealt and at times it can take its toll on you mentally as well, however the pain that I feel I believe is probably worse for my parents. Thankfully they are not the type to sit around and feel sorry for themselves; no they jump into action and look to make things better. My parents have been the best nurses that I could have ever asked for during this recovery process. I have joked with them about their nursing techniques; I gave my mom the name Nurse Lay Down the Law and my Pops was deemed, Nice Nurse, especially after he shaved my leg, however my mom didn’t seem to be embracing her name which is why I think my dad suddenly stepped up his lawfulness. All joking aside, it is because of my parents that I am having such a progressing recovery. Each morning, day and night, they fill my cooler with ice (but somehow always forget the beer) and they move my machines up and down the stairs and anywhere in between just to make sure that I am comfortable. They are truly one of a kind and I am so thankful for all that they have done for me. Although I may not ever be able to repay them for all the wonderful things they did for me over the years, I hope that I will one day be able to pay it forward and look back and say, “I owe this to my mom and dad!” Thanks for everything. I love you both so much; even if you are laying down the law!

“… So often I can’t repay the goodness I receive from others. But I can give myself to others, in whatever the day presents, just as others have given themselves to me. It’s like paying graciousness forward rather than paying it back.” – Jeff Japinga

“I believe that you can get everything in life you want it you will just help enough people get what they want.” – Zig Ziglar

“I could never adequately pay him back, so I just have to pay it forward.” – Randy Pausch “The Last Lecture”

Today Is: Blessed Beyond Belief Day

“Who else but a friend could know just what I need to hear to be inspired to discover the strength and faith I never before realized I had to celebrate with me in my triumphs, and to comfort me when I feel hurt.” – Colleen Zuck “Daily Word”

“Every human being has an impact on another…” – excerpt from Patch Adams

The waiting is over, the anxiety has calmed but the pain has found a nesting place for the long haul I’m afraid. Surgery is over, and that’s the good news. I made it out of the hospital without adding any accessories to my hospital gown this time and I’m leaving with much more than I came with, including a gnarly scar, two hopefully very durable pieces of hardware screwed into my shin and a small boutique of fresh flowers. My room looked like a miniature greenhouse thanks to all of my well wishers and loved ones who sent flowers, dropped off plants and stopped by to catch a sneak peak of “the beast”. (That’s how I’m guessing they might have referred to me during my stay) I am unable to put into the perfect words my amazement and sheer gratitude for all the love, support, prayers and comfort I received both before my surgery, and after. I am more than blessed with a loving family and very loving friends. I hope that you all know how much it meant to me to see the out pour of support through all of your texts, calls, flowers, books, cards, visits etc… Each of you made my recovery in the hospital that much better and definitely much prettier to look at! I am speechless (ok maybe wrong choice of words) but I hope you all know that I appreciate you all so very much and I know that thanks to all of you and your continued love, support and prayers I will be better in no time. According to my sister I told her shortly after I got out of surgery, “I’m gonna try and hit the town tonight; I’ll see if I can bust out of this joint.” Sounds like something I might say but I cannot remember clearly so until then… thank you for everything!

A special thanks to my mom and dad for all of their care before and immediately after and the beautiful bouquet, my Mi-Mi and Pop, for stopping by to show your love and support before I went under along with the books; I love to read, my sister and the best brother-in-law in the world for sending the beautiful bouquet of flowers and for adding unspeakable joy in a time of despair. Ash, Em and Jess for the coolest plant I’ve ever been given, a pepper plant; which my nurse told me was edible and the journal, you all know I’m a journal junkie! Thank you to Jess for also coming to visit me at the hospital, I’m so glad you saw me when you did; unfortunately I don’t remember much. A big thank you to the Kilker family and the Swanson family both, for all of your love and support and the amazing red basket of gorgeous flowers, I love you and I’m so grateful for you all and thanks to Gayle for coming by to visit too. My Uncle Ron and Lydia for dropping by to check up on me and the pink plant for support, my Aunt Joni for coming to say hello and offering to take me back into civilization when I’m up and ready for it, Erica for coming to visit me at the hospital and for her understanding when I told her I needed to turn off the lights and close my eyes “I’m still listening”. (or so that’s how I remembered it; come to find out, the lights were already off and I told her I was just going to rest my eyes… oops) Mucho gracias to Megan and Adam for their thoughtfulness and the lovely bouquet of flowers and well wishes, thank you to Debba, who works with my mom, for the lovely yellow plant and for thinking of me, thanks to Susan for the deliciously baked homemade cookies and her kindness. A very big thank you to Liz and John for the yummy granola, it’s almost gone, it’s that good, and of course for all of your love and kindness, and for Anna and Regan who came by to visit me at home. I cannot thank my girlfriends enough, Jess, Ash, Laura and Kendall for coming over to the house and spending some quality time with me as I laid on the couch and conversed with you all; it was so wonderful to not only hear your voices but to see your smiling faces, made me smile too. And thanks to both Kendall and Laura for the books and the movie. Laura gave me the new Ellen DeGeneres book, thinking I might need a good laugh to lighten my spirits, it was hilarious! Thanks for that; thank you too Ellen!!! Thank you to Colleen for coming to visit me too and for the book she gave me as well, I guess everyone knows I love to read, and thanks to Leprino for the beautiful flowers! And I cannot forget all those who have checked up on me over the days before and after surgery, your thoughtfulness and love means more than you will ever know. Emily and Richie, Gayle, Lili, Megs, Erica, Nico, Aunt Joni, Laur, Ken, Jess, Colie, Anna, Holly, Uncle John, Kelli, Brandon, Colleen, Mi-Mi and Pop Alicia, and Kaitlyn. Again I am more than blessed to have you all in my life and to have so much love and support to surround me as I begin my recovery. What a beautiful reminder you all are that with a little love and compassion we can change the world by making the load a little lighter and for reminding me that I do not have to walk this journey alone; I can see and feel you all walking alongside me, every step of the way! How blessed I am:)

P.S. One more thing, I must thank the wonderful staff at Lutheran Hospital, along with Dr. Shannon and his staff for their care and compassion to not only help me get better but to make my stay in the hospital feel more like a stay in a hotel! What the nurse staff did for me was nothing short of a miracle and I will forever be grateful; hopefully I’ll say the same about what Dr. Shannon did when this is all over!

“Share compassion, spread love. Let that become contagious. Let kindness flow through your blood and fill your heart with care and concern for all of mankind. Don’t be afraid to change the world!” – ACB

“Every day in every way I am getting better and better.” -- unknown