Some shout outs

I have been meaning to do this for some time now and haven't had the chance, but I wanted to publicly thank a few people, and there are so many to thank so I may not get to everyone. Not to mention I'm only about, what, 1/4 of the way into this mess, so there will be many more to thank along my journey - this is the 1st round.

**I want to thank my sister for loving me, no matter what!! I know my cancer "did not come at a good time for her :) " but I want her to know how happy and proud I am that she was able to finish, and not just finish - but kick ass in - nursing school and to parent her 5yr. son, Freddy, and to see her husband, Heath, off to Iraq all the while having me and cancer and our mother on her mind. She is also the one who pushed me - while I fought back - about getting 2nd opinions and seeking out the best doctors and I am soooo happy I did. I can't wait to see you tonight!! Thank you, Jennifer! I love you!!

** I want to thank my surrogate mom, Judy, for flying in the night before my first surgery and being here ever since. She has been an undemanding guest, sleeping in what ever conditions there have been. And she has been such a wonderful care giver, stepping lightly, always concerned about my well-being. She has had to drive my nasty van around an unfamiliar town to get me to my dr. appts. (I'm not allowed to drive), she has had to deal with the dogs (enough said), she has played secretary to all the calls and gracious host to all the visitors. She has also had to impersonate a florist and a nurse. But the biggest, most important role she has taken on is that of being my mom, and I have really needed that. So, thank you, Judy! I love you!

** I want to thank my husband, Arthur, who has been very wonderful and caring. His gentle spirit has been so clearly evident to me, and I have so appreciated seeing it. We have spent more time talking then we have in a while and that's been nice. We have our own unique way we roll, and I know it may appear odd to some, OK - to most of you, but it's working for us better than ever. Thank you, Honey! I love you!

** I want to thank my Posse, and they know who they are. Coming to doctors' appts., showing up at 5am for surgeries, waiting around the hospital for hours, hanging out in my cave, rubbing my back, I could go on and on. Please know how much you are appreciated. I have said this for years, but now I REALLY mean it, I don't know how women get through life without girlfriends!! I love you girls so much!! Thank you for being my friends!

**I want to thank my school posse, as well! The funny stories, the gossip, the calls, the cards, the Krispy Kreme doughnuts have all had curative powers I am sure!! It's because of you I can wake up relatively cheerful knowing the library is at least running and that kids will be able to get books pretty quickly. Thank you!! I love you!!

**I want to thank all my friends and family who have had breast cancer. There is a diverse group of you ranging in age from 43 to 64 with years of being cancer free from 2 to 19 years. Your insight and support have made all this bearable and I thank you. I am so sorry that you all had to go through this, and please know that your experiences and your sharing with me have helped me in my journey. I pledge to do the same when I'm on the cancer-free side!! So, thank you, thank you, thank you!! I love you all!

**I want to thank everyone who has brought us dinner! It has been more helpful than you know, and to be honest, more helpful than I thought it would be. The mental energy of just deciding what to have for dinner is too much for me right now. So this has been great. I actually get out of bed, go downstairs, and we all enjoy dinner together. So thank you!! Everything has been so yummy! The person who set up acct. on the website www.takethemameal.com ( password is "boob" ) just extended the days, then depending on what happens Thursday at the dr. appt. she'll adjust again.

**Finally, as I have mentioned before, all of the calls, cards, comments, emails, messages, texts, prayers, positive vibes, good energy that is being sent my way - I feel every bit if it!! Thank you so much to all of you for keeping Skylar and Emma, Arthur, the dogs and me in your thoughts and for loving us!