Before.

I made an appointmet to get my hair cut a week ago. At the time, I was thinking it would actually be a shave. My hair fell out after round 2 of chemo during the last cycle, and this week, I will be close to round 4. I knew I could shave my head at home. I've done it before, but honestly, I just really wanted the hair wash scalp massage service. However, during the last 10 days my hair has only been thinning a bit - not coming out in huge clumps. So, when I went in today, I changed from a shave to a shape. It was so normal and nice. Bonus -  the salon paid for the haircut - and wished me well on the remainder of my treatment. Glimmers of goodness continue to shine EVERYwhere.💫

After.

 

Earth Day means Race Day! This morning, we dropped off Bennett early to pick up his packet. The weather was much better than last year, and the rest of us only needed sweatshirts and light jackets. There was the obligatory stop at Starbucks (which our local shop just unionized!!), and we were off to be the best spectators.

 

This was around mile 7 - when the trail curves into the Beaver Trail. Bennett looked strong, but tired. Later, he would tell us that he hit a wall "gave up" at mile 8.

But, in true Bennett fashion, his "giving up" included a 3rd place finish! He rocked his time of 1:34ish, and the best part is I finally got a cow bell! Now for some mac and cheese.

 

Chemo Gift Box #3 (15) filled with everyone's favorite treats! I especially love all the popcorn and fancy granola. I still have my hair!

 

 St Cloud Proud! #Handsoff Rally

My top influencers have always been my sister, my bestie and social media, so it's no surprise I finally caved and purchased a weighted vest. This vest will be used on my walks in the hopes of building muscle mass and strength. It weighs 12 lbs, and I took it out on it's maiden voyage this afternoon. I kinda like it!

Decision Day 2025 - Welp - I guess it's official.

 

Andy returned from his week of Canadian fishing with sun kissed cheeks, several funny stories and of course the limit of fish. He has been planning this adventure for a year, and it did not disappoint. While there was some heckling at the local bar for being American, and over paying for bait (tariffs already?? 🤣), a good time was had by all. So much so, they are already planning their next trip for 2026!

And, thanks to the best colleagues ever, the kids and I did not go hungry. There were daily meal deliveries during this chemo week - that kept us all very well fed. 

Chemo Box #2 (14) included favorite coffee "perks". My favorite was from Ms. Foy - a small package of coffee and and giant bottle of Bailey's. 😆
 

Never fear - the Leprechaun appeared! Every year, our pesky Leprechaun leaves clues around the house leading the Ninja and the Gnome on a wild treasure hunt. Due to Bennett's travels to Mexico City, the Leprechaun decided to wait for his return for the shenanigans. But, he did not disappoint and those clever kids found the pot of gold - including all things green.
 

Happy graduation, Bennett! Let's run Mexico City!!

Nicole brought Bennett on his first running vacation this spring to celebrate his HS graduation. They were able to spend a few days exploring the city, eating great food, practicing their Spanish and running urban and mountainous trails. The trip also included yoga, meditation and a sweat lodge experience only Bennett can retell. Thank you, Colie for making this happen!! 

 

Tonight, Bennett received the "New Voice/Rising Star" award at the annual DFL Spring Banquet. So proud of him for being recognized for all his hard work over the past few years. 

 

The surgery went so well, and the pathology came back so clear - not gonna lie there was a part of me that thought we maybe wouldn't have to do chemo again. Dr. Luke gave us many options for adjuvant care. We talked about each one, and I finally asked, "What would you do?". And, we agreed it it what I would do, too. So - here's to round 1 (13) of cycle 2. We are planning on 8 rounds, and I am ready for it.

My Riverview Village does it again - a little box of purple love. 💜
 

This photo exudes so many emotions. It was taken as we waited to be admitted to prepare for surgery. We talked about coffee, the weather, told stories about the other people and did our best to pretend like we were not scared shitless. 

Dr. Kendrick came in after all the usual pre-op business had been complete. He said he was ready, and knew I was was, too. He said he was uncertain about how long the surgery would take. If all went well, it would take 6-7 hours. If there were complications, it could take longer. And, if they went in and found cancer everywhere, they would close me back up and it would be done within an hour.

I held my tears, as I told Andy I loved him, and reminded him to keep my family and T updated. I held my tears, as they wheeled the bed down the all.  As we turned the first corner, the tears fell. Upon entering the OR, a nurse wiped them away, promised they would take really good care of me, and held my hand. She held my hand and complemented my nails, and told me I had beautiful eyes, and made jokes about her colleagues. She held my hand and said I was in the best care and to take deep breaths. She held my hand as I feel asleep. And, when I woke up the first thing I did was ask what time it was.

It was after 4pm (I think?). It definitely was not within the hour.

Andy held me and said, "They got it. They got it all." Then, I saw T, and the tears came again.

Birthdays (along with so many other things) hit different after a cancer diagnosis. My little family celebrated me on the night before my birthday, knowing that tomorrow we head to Mayo for surgery. You know we thrive in tradition, and after dinner, there was cheesecake and singing and gifts and a picture. There are no words to describe how the simplicity of this evening was exactly what I needed before leaving. One of the most challenging parts of this has been waiting for surgery, and being home tonight fills my heart. Happy birthday to me. I love you all so much.

 

This sweet face sure loves her animals. She is currently working on getting a gecko, all the while trying to convince us chickens or ducks are a good idea. She does all kinds of research, sends videos and fun facts and (usually) asks her dad. 😂