A New Chapter

Last night we had our weekly family dinner. In one sense, it was no different than any other family dinner we’ve had. My dad suggested we take a family nap, because apparently we all looked a bit like walking zombies. And although everyone thought the idea of family nap time was hilarious, it was also seriously considered. (If there’s one thing Fines love as much as food, it would be sleep.) Everyone talked about their day, we laughed with each other, and of course ate copious amounts of food. And when my mom mentioned dessert, my cousin Alyssa and I headed straight for the dark chocolate in the pantry.

Not much different than normal. Yet at the same time, it was completely different…

You see, last night was a celebration dinner of sorts. A marking of the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Last night we gave thanks because my mom had her last radiation treatment, and she is now cancer free.

I feel like I need to say that again. MY MOM IS CANCER FREE!! I feel so thankful I could burst! She had an amazing team of doctors who took incredible care of her. I won’t get into a lot of detail, but I will just say that by the grace of God her doctors were able to get all of the cancer out in one surgery. She then had to endure 4 straight weeks of radiation, yesterday being her last day. We are very grateful for how minimally invasive it was, and how she was spared some of what could have been so much worse. And while she will still be feeling the side affects for a bit, it is a wonderful feeling to say that this painful chapter in our lives is coming to a close, and we can begin the next one with that much more joy.

So I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you to any and all of you who supported my mom this summer. For those who prayed. For those who made meals. For those who gave their time, sent gifts of encouragement, or just lent a helping hand. And even for those of you who may not know my mom, but read my blog and took a moment to send up a little prayer or wish her good health and recovery. I truly believe everyone single one of you made a difference. So I thank you, from the bottom of my heart. And I wanted to share with you the good news… My mom is cancer free :)

We picked up Cafe Rio for the dinner celebration!

Lots of pretty flowers for my mom :)

Of course I had to take a picture of my salad. One word: YUM.

It’s not the best photo (it was actually pretty dark out), but I wanted one of my mom and I, to remember this special day. And I’m so happy to have it :)

Love you Mom!!!