His joy comes with the morning

My Monday began in the surgery waiting room while my mom underwent a laparoscopy to drain some fluid in her abdomen. She had a pet scan a few weeks ago which showed some inflamation around her female organs. She had cancer two years ago (marginal zone lymphoma - a rare cancer) and it was contained within the upper portion of her lung which she had removed at that time. She was cancer free and has pet scans ever since to make sure it stays that way. Unfortunately, the surgery this morning showed that she has little tumors throughout her pelvic region and on her ovaries. Not the good news we were hoping to hear. The Doctor thinks it could be ovarian cancer. Gosh, I hate that word!! I have been a puffy eyed snotty nosed mess all day. She is my very best friend. She gets me like no one else does. We have this weird sense of humor that no one but us understands. We have such a special mother/daughter bond that we call each other at the same time, we say the same things at the same time, we have even sensed when things are wrong with each other. She always knows before even I do that I'm pregnant just be looking at me and sensing it. It is a bond that cannot be replaced. So, you may understand a little why this is such a big blow to me.

I do know this. . .I know that we take on the strength of that which we overcome. I know that we rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3). I know that in all things God is good. I do not understand why these things are allowed to happen to anyone, but I put my trust, my faith, and my hope in the Lord. No matter the circumstance. He will do whatever He has to so that the work of God might be displayed in our lives (John 9). I know that in our weakness we are made strong. It seems like He grants an extra doseage of strength and peace in difficult times. That does not mean I am coasting along without any emotions, because I am not. I am a mess! However, I know that there is a greater purpose. That's why I choose to put my hope in Christ. I would greatly appreciate your prayers! The days ahead will not be easy. She is an amazing woman and is so strong in her character. She has been a wonderful example of the Proverbs 31 woman to all who know her.
Okay. . .sorry for being such a Debbie Downer! It felt so good to get that off of my chest and share my soul.

My mom's blog with her friends

I know this isn't my typical post, so forgive me for not having fun crafty pictures. . .they will come later in the week (I have been creating up a storm!). Scrapbooking and crafting can be so therapeutic, eh? I am so thankful for this welcome distraction! I am also thankful for my blogging and online friends who provide encouragement from afar!
xo