Best present ever

I turn 40 on Tuesday, and I'm actually looking forward to it.

For those of you who know Ed, you might know that he is really good at surprises. I can honestly say that he has surprised more times than not over the years, and has always been so in tune. I just love him.

A bunch of co-workers and I had gone to lunch to belatedly celebrate Bart's birthday, and it was really nice. Marilyn informed me at lunch that Richard wanted to meet with me that afternoon about some project (she didn't know what) and said she had sent me an appointment. After we got back, my friend and co-worker, Brian, came by to have me proofread some of his work. I didn't think twice about it, as he has me do that stuff all the time.

While reviewing it, I got a call from Jeri Deneen to go over some signs that we've been working on. I told Brian I had to take the call, and he left. After a few minutes he popped his head in my office and told me to come to the lunch room when I got a minute. Marilyn had called a few minutes before my appointment with Richard to tell me he was on the phone and that she would call me when he was off. So I figured going to get whatever treat was in the lunchroom would take just a minute and I could then meet with Richard. Because honestly, why else would Brian tell me to come down to the lunch room?

I started down the hall, and Brian was standing outside the lunch room with Marilyn. I thought to myself, "That's a good sign if Marilyn's here- Richard must still be on the phone." But then, she darted back in the lunch room and Brian got quiet. I knew something was up at this point, but I was about 5 feet from the door. I asked Brian what was going on. He just said, "Come in here."

Almost everyone from the admin building was in the lunch room and there were black balloons everywhere and I just couldn't take it all in. I started crying. I couldn't believe my co-workers would have a surprise party for me! As I looked around I was just amazed, and then I noticed my parents in the corner. I said, "My Mom and Dad are here!" As I walked over to them, somebody said, "and your husband!" Then I knew. He had really outdone himself. It was perfect.

I hugged Mom & Dad, and gave Ed the biggest hug ever. Again, it was perfect. I'll download the pictures and post them here, although I think most of it was video, which I'm not sure how to post. It was so much fun. One cake said, "You're older than dirt" and had cake crumbs on the top. What a nice surprise. I LOVE surprises.

A funny note: I hugged everyone in the room, starting with the women. Brian HATES hugs, but he hugged me anyway. It was pure torture for him, I'm sure--especially with everyone watching. I got around to Perry, and he asked, "Will your husband be jealous?" I cracked up. Not Ed.

Way to go, honey. I think I'll keep you. :) Thanks for the best present ever.

Six years and counting

I don't know what it is about hitting your 5-year mark of cancer survival (aside from the obvious), but now that I've passed it, I feel strangely free. Free to mention that I'm a survivor, free to mention how many years it's been, free to rejoice.

For the longest time, there were "it's not a big deal-" or "my cancer was relatively easy-" type explanations. Whereas today, I can state that it was a big deal, and that cancer is no picnic, even if it was easy compared to many others' experiences. For five years it was easier to ignore it, or to downplay it, or to try and pretend it never happened.

However, I have to admit that I'm glad I went through it. Even the most horrible aspects of it--because in the long run, something like that really makes you appreciate life. And even more so, the peace from knowing you have a loving Father in Heaven who is watching over you becomes invaluable.

I'll never forget my husband telling me that it was I who carried him through it all. He speculated that it had something to do with my faith. All I can say to that is, "Honey, you have no idea." :)

So here's to six more years, at least, and to all of you who held my hand, visited me, comforted me, and loved me, even from afar. Thank you for so ably becoming the hands of the Father to help me know that I am watched over and loved. I thank you most humbly and sincerely.

Linda