by Sharon O | Oct 11, 2023 | Uncategorized
October is breast cancer awareness month.
I have always gone into the hospital for routine mammograms because of the need to watch a few spots.
I went every six months.
Till everything changed the end of 2019.
One mammogram looked suspicious, and I was to go in and get checked on a more intense level.
December of 2019 I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma stage zero.
The plan was set in place for treatment.
My surgeon, oncologist and I set the plan in motion.
December 29th I had an ultrasound.
I had a biopsy after Christmas, and then I had surgery.
A lumpectomy where they remove a portion of the tissue and surrounding areas.
Then I had to heal from that experience.
I had stitches from a very good surgeon, and I had to be careful of tight things around my site.
In a short amount of time, I had consultation, mammogram, ultrasound, consultation again, and scheduled surgery.
The biopsy was difficult as it was a stand up, mammogram biopsy I told the guy doing it, “can you numb me down to my toes?”
Whatever he did, it was done well as I had minimal pain during the process.
The biopsy actually removed the cancer cells and after that I was scheduled to receive 16 sessions of radiation instead of the 20 that were scheduled for me.
February 5th I had a CT scan on the 3rd and a bone scan on the 5th. I also had an MRI in December of 2019
Radiation began February 10th for four weeks every day with a consult with that oncology doctor in the process of treatment.
I did not have to take chemotherapy which was such a blessing.
I remember walking past the room where those getting treatment rested as the tubes ran through their veins.
Surgery day was actually January 7th followed by 4-6 weeks of radiation. On the 16th doctors office called with a clear report.
Radiation to begin February 10th.
January I started a new medication to prevent cancer recurrence.
As you can tell by reading this, every diagnosis is a major thing.
They don’t waste time on the treatment plan.
It is still a little jumbled as to what we did, how we did and how we coped.
All I know is every mammogram can be life changing.
I was able to ring the bell after treatment and I pray I don’t ever have to do it again.
For those who fight the fight, I pray for you. Remain strong and remain steady.
October is breast cancer awareness month. If you haven’t scheduled one, please do. 
by Sharon O | Sep 30, 2023 | Uncategorized
No matter how busy our lives, there are ways to make sure neither distance nor every day demands.
keep us from friends we don’t want to lose.
I care about my friends and value the time it took for us to become friends and to stay that way.
Two of my special friends live far away from me. It takes effort to see them.
We treasure the time when we can plan a day or weekend.
It is very important to make it a priority.
Also, the phone calls or texts make a difference too.
Not the same as having a hot cup of tea together, but it is a small compromise when we can’t ‘be together’.
Jesus had friends, he spent time teaching them and preparing them.
Wanting them to be watchful and aware.
I think that is important too.
A real friendship builds up the confidence in each other and the ability to pray for and with each other is a blessing.
My life changed when my friends moved away but I knew in my heart it was a good move for both of them.
We can be happy and be a little sad at the same time.
Our lives are here to nurture the ones who give us time and value.
If I could go over and drop in and say “HI” I would, but for now, I must be happy with texts and calls.
My sister just made a lovely luncheon for her ‘good’ friends.
It was not only a gift of her time and talent but a sincere effort to get to know them better.
It takes time, and it takes choice to go out of your way to do something nice.
We all can do that. It is just a matter of deciding what are we trying to build up and nurture.
No matter how busy our lives, there are ways to make sure neither distance nor everyday demands.
keep us from the friends we don’t want to lose.
by Sharon O | Sep 28, 2023 | Uncategorized
A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.
When I read this quote on my bulletin board, I am reminded of the many friends who have enriched our lives.
I can remember back when I was a young mom in the hospital having her very first baby.
Down the hall and later in the room was another mom having her first.
We have a common ground of friendship.
Our boys are the same age. I was young and she was ten years older, but we have stayed in contact all these years.
Later I had a daughter, and she did too.
It’s been 48 years of getting together a few times a year.
We are in our late 60’s they are in their late 70’s.
The years have been good, and our friendship not forgotten.
Then I remember other friends who have walked this life path of kids, and church activities and illnesses and bible studies.
Friends who have stood the test of time with us.
When I think of each one, they all helped in a certain point in time.
Some friends have dropped away, and I have not heard from them, but the ‘real’ ones are here to stay.
I know at any point I can call them and ask for prayer.
I know at any point I can call them and go over to their house for fellowship.
I know at any point I can reach out to them and just thank them.
Saying thank you is a gift we can give to others.
Saying I appreciate you and miss you is also a gift.
Those friendships that have stood the test of time. That is what I value.
When it’s time for me to go, someday, I want those friends to remember, it was good and sweet.
We had God to bind us together, we had friendships to help us nurture what is refreshing to our soul.
I don’t take light thoughts about those special ones who have held a special place within my heart.
A sweet friendship refreshes the soul, always and have some tea too.. 
by Sharon O | Sep 13, 2023 | Uncategorized
Our family went on a camping trip.
It was not anything to share about, just took our trailer to Bend area and it was good weather.
In fact, it was SO hot I tried not to complain.
We had very little hook ups and with a trailer that is a major inconvenience.
At one point in time, we went over to Lava Lake area and walked around the lake.
I had knee length shorts on, and I thought I was OK.
Not true.
Somehow, I had gotten bit by a tick and never knew it.
I wonder where it went.
We were home after about 4-5 days and my knee was rather swollen and not happy.
We ended up in urgent care and that doctor thought I had cellulitis.
Which is serious.
She gave me antibiotics and told me to watch my knee.
After the next week I went back to another doctor, and she said I had a Lyme ring from a tick.
The antibiotics really helped but I did have this virus in my system and will have to deal with it.
I don’t mind being unique but out of 47 people I was the only one with symptoms.
I guess I am special.
Camping is always a risk, there are lots of bugs and creatures to watch out for.
I did not feel pain, nor did I feel fatigue, other than today because I am fighting something.
I like our trailer and I like the many feelings of home, but you still have the chance to get bit by something.
The season is almost over.
We have one more outing planned at the coast then we will put the trailer away.
Our family went on a camping trip, and I was the one to find a rare tick in the pacific northwest.
by Sharon O | Aug 18, 2023 | Uncategorized
Other thoughts about the show Heartland.
The more I have thought about this show the more I realize it is so good.
The family all participated in the caring for the livestock.
There are chores for the kids, age appropriate of course.
The stalls for the horses had to be cleaned, which includes scooping the messes.
The horses had to be exercised not just by one person but by all who are able.
There were cattle drives where most all of the adults had to go and agree to help.
It was not an option. When Grandpa Jack said, “tomorrow” he meant it.
There was respect in the home.
No one was allowed to be sassy or entitled to ‘miss’ chores.
Dinner was mostly around the table and sometimes they had a small argument but more than once it was peaceful.
Traditions were passed down from one to another.
The family included a few who were adopted or fostered into the family.
No one was turned down.
Amy Fleming was married to a vet in training named TY. It was a love story of such sweetness.
I don’t think a lot of families these days have a working relationship like this ‘tv’ family.
Yes, I do realize it’s a TV family not too different than the Waltons or Little house on the prairie.
I think the unique part is the main character, Grandpa Jack.
He listens, guides, disciplines in a great and gentle way, he shares his opinion and does not push it.
He is a rock to those all around the farm.
Oh, and there is also a family cemetery where loved ones had been buried many years ago.
In town there is a family ‘restaurant’ which surprisingly reminded me of my own grandma’s restaurant.
The old-style tables and the bar stools one could spin around and around on.
The slick vinyl seats not only were a hazard at times, but they were cold to the skin too.
I will keep thinking about this show and may even order the books.
It is a series that is worth the time and the effort to watch, and think about, as I share,
other thoughts about the show Heartland.
by Sharon O | Aug 15, 2023 | Uncategorized
A series we have been watching is called Heartland.
I wasn’t sure at first if I would like it.
There are horses, and cowboys and rodeo activities.
It is created out of Canada and a wholesome family show.
There is a main character, Grandpa Jack and then there are others surrounding him.
The grand daughters and others who eventually join the show.
I like the fact that it is family oriented.
Every meal they prepare the dinner, and all sit around the table and visit.
It is not uncommon for them to have guests at the table, and they actually seem to enjoy each other.
Most of the time.
There are children who grow up during the filming of the show and each character ages, and it is so good.
When I was a little girl, we were around ranch activities and farm equipment.
We knew what to do and not do. It is a given known thing.
Another character is Amy Fleming a grand daughter who is also a trainer for all horses.
So, the show is centered around her skill level training and giftedness as a horse whisperer.
I love the way the family is tight and close and although they have their moments they always recover by nighttime.
It is a wonderful, feel-good show and many times I was almost in tears because of the scenes presented.
I think the writers who came up with this idea were brilliant and very wise.
It is on a pause for now till the next season, but I am waiting to see the end results.
We never take the time to watch a series together and it has been a nice ‘new’ thing to try to continue.
I am sure there will be others just as good and just as entertaining.
If you can find it, I would suggest it as a nice ‘relaxing’ evening activity.
A series we have been watching is called Heartland.
Because matters of the heart happen on the land that grandpa owns.
by Sharon O | Jul 8, 2023 | Uncategorized
Life is moving quickly.
I didn’t write anything in June although there were many things to share.
Grand children in transition and moving away. That is hard for a grandparent’s heart.
It certainly puts our prayer life in an active state.
It was also the anniversary of my sister’s death. June was also a birthday for my other sister.
I have another sister I have not met in person, but we do keep in contact.
Also, I have a very special cousin who is just like a sister to me.
As the month moved on and July came it was a natural transition from cooler weather to hot.
The beach is often our getaway place, Oregon has the most beautiful beaches and water ways.
The water is not warm, but the beauty makes up for it.
We went down to the southern Oregon coast in our trailer with some very good friends.
It was a nice time of camping and sharing,
That is why we bought the trailer so we can go and still have access to a bathroom and our own bed.
Yes, I am very picky about my sleeping arrangements.
It won’t be too long before we will see the changes outside.
I saw on the news that the sunset will be coming earlier each week.
As I age every day has a certain amount of challenges.
Health issues are often the central focus.
We are grateful for good days and thankful for the strength, to press forward on bad days.
“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
I will always tell myself; it could be worse so complaining is not an option.
July is here and we have focused on our freedom, God bless America and our patriotic spirits.
I don’t get tired of all that. EVER.
Each day is a blessing as life is moving quickly.
by Sharon O | May 30, 2023 | Uncategorized
The month of May is almost over, and I cannot believe the year is almost half gone.
Where does time go?
The month has brought a few events. Mothers day, Our grand daughters birthday, My dads birthday he would have been in his 90’s. As my husband has said, “he would not want to live that long,” I know… I sure miss him.
It would be nice to sit in a room and just visit.
Dad was a cowboy, loved his hat, and boots and his ‘outside’ life until he couldn’t do it anymore.
He and I had a wonderful understanding.
We established my expectations early on in our ‘late in life relationship’.
Believe me, I didn’t expect much.
If I had a ‘I wish’ bowl the spending more time with him would be on the list.
He has been gone for many years now.
Memorial day just passed us and dad was in the Navy. A veteran, to be proud, both our dads were in the service.
My husband’s dad was in Patton’s army. Not an easy thing for a young man.
This month I decided to not have longer hair, when I went in for a change, I had the lady cut it short.
It seems to fit me well.
Summer is here and the temps are warming up.
We have trips planned for the beach and then central Oregon.
Our trailer serves as a home away from home.
Last month we purchased all new appliances for our kitchen.
It is very different and at the same time very modern and nice.
We also finished a wall on the back patio. I use the word ‘we’ very loosely as I only watched the process.
It blocks the rain from our patio and also blocks the air conditioner noise.
Summer will be a test to see how it works for us.
The month of May is almost gone and soon we move into the summer season.
Flowers are blooming, garden is growing, and it is very much our home now.
The month of May is almost over, may we have safe and wonderful new memories as the summer begins.
by Sharon O | Apr 19, 2023 | Uncategorized
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
What an amazing prayer promise to give to someone.
God will give you peace. At all times. In every way.
I think of the song, “it is well with my soul.”
When peace like a river ascended my way, when sorrow like sea billows roll.
Whatever my lot, thou has caused me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul.
The song is smooth and peaceful.
It is assuring to us who listen and to others who sing.
The song is a promise of protection. The verse is an encouragement.
May the Lord of peace, NOT the Lord of chaos or confusion. But peace.
We receive the peace that passes all understanding when we reach our hands out to accept, what HE has to offer.
When I was doing treatment for cancer recovery, I remember feeling calm and peaceful.
I didn’t feel the anxiety till much later after the process was over.
It felt well with my soul, for I knew there was nothing I could do within myself to heal quicker.
I had to trust the process. I had to trust the one who heals on all levels.
Not a day goes by that I do not remain very thankful and fully, sure that God was with me.
The process was new. a little scary but I was ok. It imprinted itself on my mind, heart and spirit.
My soul was well, and in peace.
There were some unknowns but nothing is without a reason and just recently I was able to share with a new ‘survivor’ about my experince and story. Nothing comes to us without a purpose.
I was able to encourage her and explain to her what she could be feeling right now.
It was a positive thing.
I will continue to be open to those who need ‘my story.’
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.
by Sharon O | Apr 4, 2023 | Uncategorized
A new month is beginning and soon spring will arrive with warmer days and blooms on my flowers.
I have been ready for warmer days for some time.
It’s been a long wait.
We are in the week of Easter now. Oh I remember when our kids were little, and we would do eggs and easter baskets.
I remember one time our granddaughter who was about three or four, decided she did not need to go find eggs.
Why do I have to find them when I didn’t lose them? That is a logical question for sure and kind of funny.
She could never understand why one would take eggs out of the refrigerator, boil them, color them, cool them down and then hide them in the yard ONLY to go put the found ones back into the refrigerator.
She never knew why but she did it anyway so we could take pictures and be happy for her basket of goodies.
Easter is really a family holiday. It is for church. It is for remembering the story of Jesus.
It is a story of love.
We have been watching the chosen and those characters. really show the relationships that were formed in the days of Jesus and his followers.
It is powerful and it is meaningful.
Easter is also a time for grief. It is a sad, solemn. time.
I cannot even imagine Mary watching her ‘grown son’ go through what he had to experience.
I cannot even imagine the deep sorrow. The grief upon grief.
Knowing that she was the chosen one in the Christmas story, she was also chosen in his ‘death’ story.
She had a mother’s heart, and it would break and break more as it seemed so final.
God designed this story letting everyone know we are loved.
It had to be this way.
A new month is beginning, and spring will bring warm days and new life.
