I have been so happy this past week. Yes I have been recovering from chemo 5 and feeling kind of lousy but I have also started two weeks of holidays and it has been the best thing I could have done for myself.  I was originally worried that I wouldn't be able to make the time magical for my girls because I would be feeling awful but it has been wonderful.  Perfect lazy days with time slowing down to a gentle crawl.  We've read books on our front porch, baked peach pies and gone for ice cream and long walks after dinner.  I have savored every second, it has healed my soul. 

Oh and we bought dwarf hamsters!!  My girls talked me into them.  Meet Lightning, Buddy and Joy. They are incredibly cute and I love hearing my girls laugh as they play with them.  The most beautiful sound in the world is a child's laughter and it sounds even more beautiful to me now. Cancer certainly makes all these moments more poignant, I am cherishing each and every one of them.

As for chemo 5, it hasn't been quite as hard as the last one. The pain was there but not quite as constant or intense, I haven't had to take any strong painkillers. The fatigue has hit me with full force though but I can handle that.  I think I am learning to adapt more to the challenges of chemo and taking better care of myself.  Slowing down a bit has been hard for me to accept but ultimately better for me physically and I suppose mentally.

I have one more week of holidays and then I will be back at work - but only for three days, then I will have my sixth and final chemo!!!  Bring it on!!

Cynthia