Mother's Day (with cancer)

I woke up in pain on Mother's Day, the same excruciating ache over my right shoulder blade that landed me in the ER and hospital last week.

All nine of our children had commited to go to church with me, and we had planned a picnic in the park with my mother, my sisters, and their families. Determined not to let the pain ruin my day, I moved to my chair and tried to stay calm and breathe slowly. The misery finally subsided.

As I got ready for church, a wave of sadness engulfed me, and I wondered aloud to Don if this will be my last Mother's Day. I really don't spend much time mulling those possibilities, except when I am scared and in pain. Will this be my last year? My last summer? Is the cancer gaining the upper hand? You can see why I try not to dwell on these thoughts.

I did go to church, and I really enjoyed being there. Our picnic was great, too. The weather was absolutely perfect. It was great to spend time with everyone.

Fortunately, the pain did not return, and we retreated to the house at 4:30. Dad and Virginia came for a visit, then it was time for supper and the children's baths and preparations for the final week of school.

Overall, I had a really nice Mother's Day. Here's hoping for many, many more!