Happy Birthday!

Nine years ago today, I became a mom for the third and final time.

Eight years ago today, I learned that Mandy's life journey might be difficult...scary...and courageous.

Seven years ago today, I learned there was a tumor, or more accurately, the potential of a tumor.

Six years ago today, I looked at a toddler, with a beautiful spirit and a gorgeous dimple that never failed to melt my heart.

Five years ago today, I had a little girl in preschool, full of spunk and a zest for life.

Four years ago today, we were in a hospital room, trying to figure out what was causing the unexplained neurological episodes.

Three years ago today, I wanted to believe the worst was behind her.

Two years ago today, I had no idea that every thing was about to change.

One year ago today, I watched my baby girl spend her birthday recovering from chemo the day before.

Today, I look at a little girl who is a warrior, an optimist, a believer. She has a stubborn streak, is opinionated and is learning to advocate for herself. She has been through more in nine years than a lot of people deal with in a lifetime. She has taught me how to smile, how to look for a way and a reason to laugh, how to dig deeper than I ever thought possible for a strength I never knew I had. She has shown me that at any given moment, all that really matters, is just that....THAT MOMENT.

It is a gift to be her momma, one I am forever grateful for.

Happy birthday, Mandy. I love you more than words can possibly express. Today you turned 9 and to paraphrase one of the best birthday wishes you got all day... I expect/ hope/ dream/ plan for at least 91 more.

Love to all~

Today

It has been one helluva week. And one I promise to recap in greater detail later. But, today let's leave it at the text I sent out after Mandy's appointment in Orlando today.

No surgery! No biopsy! No more chemo!! Right now, she is officially OFF TREATMENT! And right now, that ROCKS!!

All of those things MAY come to be at one point or another. There may be surgery someday. There may be a biopsy someday. There may be more chemo someday.

But, today nineteen long months of chemo comes to a successful end. And today? Is all that ever really matters. And today, is good! Really, really, really good.

Love to all~