That time for surgery has come. Now that we're back in the States and have family to help with the boys it seems like the best opportunity so we're taking it. In the midst of preparing to move to Seattle, I find myself reluctantly following in the footsteps of my mother as I visit with the same doctors who took care of her, years before she was diagnosed with stomach cancer. They reassure me that everything will be fine, just as they reassured my mom seven years ago when she had the same surgery. And so I wonder.
I wonder if the surgery is a solution or just prolonging the inevitable.
I wonder if I will live longer than my mom.
I wonder if I will get to see my little boys become men.
And I wonder if I can remain optimistic when it seems so certain what my future holds.
One of the lessons I've learned from the recent deaths in our family is that life is beautiful, but fleeting. I know how important it is to make each day count, to live in the moment. As I was fixing dinner the other day, I looked out the window and saw my three monkeys playing in the backyard. I paused, looked at the food simmering on the stove, then hastily took off my apron and ran outside with the camera. "Dinner can wait," I thought. And I'm glad it did or I would've missed out on the chance to wrestle with my boys in the soft green grass of the backyard.
I originally started this blog to record the adventures of our family in Okinawa. Our tropical adventures may be over but new adventures are in store and I have decided I will continue to blog about our lives as we make every day count and "live in the moment."
Mel,
ReplyDeleteYour family...wow. I wish I could just call you and talk to you. You'll be in my prayers.
It's perfect! I love the new title and concept. Very inspiring. Good luck with things on the colon front.
ReplyDeleteMel, you are so good to always offer me a dose of perspective. I need to play with my boys more. Drop what I'm doing and live in the moment. Good luck with your upcoming surgery. I had no idea you were dealing with this and I hope everything goes well.
ReplyDeletePerfect new title. Good luck with the surgery . . . remember I'm only a few hours away once you guys get to Seattle!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited to keep reading your blog. You have inspired me so much. It can be so hard to live in the moment but it is so important. Thanks Mel and I hope all goes well with the surgery.
ReplyDeleteThat was a beautiful post. It really inspired me to take more time for those I love. I also had no idea you were facing that. Our prayers will be with you!
ReplyDeleteHey Mel,
ReplyDeleteI like the new blog! I'm glad you got to run out and have some fun with those darling monkeys. We miss them around here. Do you miss Okinawa yet? I'm so ready to be done, I hope our trip back there is a recharge instead of just making it worse! We'll be praying that you can stay optimistic because you should be. You are young and strong and although you've lost so much there is still so much to have faith in. Your future is not the same as your mom's, it is yours and I know it will be amazing. I look forward to watching you "live in the moment!"
Love the new title!! At first i wasn't sure who it was! You are ever amazing Melanie and i think i will just keep you a permament fixture in my prayers!!! My sister is in Paulsbo my brother in law is a dentist in Silverdale, Nikki and Steve Haws, if you ever need anything, they could help ya in a heartbeat!
ReplyDeleteWe miss you guys! It's not the same without you. I am so glad you are going to keep posting on your blog. You are capable of moving mountains Mel. You have an amazing amount of love, support and prayers on your side. You really do strive to live the best life possible--I appreciate the reminder and your inspiration! Good luck, keep us posted on your recovery and remember we are right there with you always!
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