So much has happened over the past year, and I will spare you every detail, so allow me to begin with what's going on right now. This summer has been ultra busy with my work, Jonathan's work and soccer schedule, full-time school.etc. Boy, did we need to get away from this town. So July 1st, Jonathan and I packed up and drove down south for our only "vacation" this summer. We took a driving tour around Louisiana and visited the hot spots of our great state! We were able to hit up New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and Shreveport. The best part is that we were able to visit with several family and friends throughout the 4-day adventure, and we had a BLAST together! Below is a picture visiting the Abita Brewery. Cheers!
July 4th is the day that ROCKED my world. A day that is generally spent at the lake, grilling, celebrating America and such. I get a call from my Daddy at 9:02 am with the devastating news that my mom's tumor biopsy results came back cancerous. My mama is literally the most precious, sweet and loving person in my life. I've been through a couple heart breaks in my life, only one to really speak of, but to know that the most amazing woman in my life has to undergo yet another battle of cancer, shattered my heart. A little back story... I will try to wrap it up in nutshell, but really there's no such thing when it comes to me telling a story but here goes... The first time Mama underwent her cancer battle, She was 32 years old, and I was four years old. I don't have many memories of the "the sickness." Obviously, four years old is far too young to comprehend the extent of the disease. In fact, I remember my grandmother staying with me and my sisters for a while, but other than that life resumed as normal in my eyes. Everyone has a different definition of normal, and as soon as Mama went into remission, my life resumed and I had a close-to-perfect childhood. I had extremely loving parents, who supported me, and raised me to love the Lord and to enjoy life. My mom has always looked different to people. I am ultra sensitive to this and constantly find myself trying to protect her from stares, or looks in public. Her first cancer trial led her to many, many surgeries leaving scars and deformities on her face. However, I believe she is THE most beautiful person on this planet. Anyone that knows her, can honestly say that she is one Amazing woman. As a friend, a mother, a wife, a sister, an aunt, a grandmother, and all of her many titles, she positively touches each and every person she meets. She is shy, and quiet, yet funny. The woman is has got to be witty to keep up with the Scriber Clan!!
As if being woman doesn't bring enough insecurities of it's own, my mom has a constant reminder of the results of cancer. However, it is also a constant reminder of LIFE and the blessing of God's healing grace. I truly believe that God allowed her to show his mercy more visibly than most can bare. She is a walking testament of strength and faith, and she will forever be the most influential woman in my life. And my Dad, well he's just amazing. He has been by Mama's side every step of the way. The man is the best example of a Godly husband who honors his wife through sickness and health. He has loved her through it all, and never left her side. These parents of mine, wow, they give me hope of life and although times are tough, their faith in God has truly proved their blessings in life. And my sisters?? well, there is a reason they say your sisters are your best friends. Seriously, they are awesome. We have all had our struggles with dealing with The Big C, but we stick together. and laugh and cry and chat and eat and laugh. I mean seriously, sometimes you just need to laugh it out!! and we are pretty good at the loud obnoxious "I can't believe she's laughing so loud" laughter. We are several years apart, and we are very different in our own quirky ways. But one thing is true. They love some Jesus, and that's all I need to know.
SO fast forward, 24 years, and we are back at square one. Cancer has returned, and I am an emotional wreck. Not only am I devastated that Mama has to go through Chemo and all that comes with it ALL over again, but seriously how much can one person handle??? This time, I am nearly 28 years old, and fully capable of knowing every single detail of her sickness. I want to be there each second to make sure she knows just how much I love her. It has been an extremely rough few days, and it is only the beginning. I pray for her strength, that she will beat the Big C, so this can yet again be another testament of God's healing power and fulfillment of life on earth.
This picture was taken July 4th. It was indeed a really great day; complete with family, food, and fun!
Although this hasn't been the greatest few weeks, I continue to count my blessings. I am definitely feeling the love. Jonathan Walsh is amazing and has been there to support and encourage me and my family. One of the many reasons I love this man is because he loves Mama unconditionally just as we all do. His support and encouragement means everything to me, and I can not thank him enough. The prayer chain from my close friends and family has truly been a blessing. To know that so many people, whether they know me and my family or not, are praying for my mom has been so unbelievably comforting. I am overwhelmed by how compassionate others can be, especially when you need it the most.
God has truly been working my life over the last couple of months. Before Mama was diagnosed with cancer again, I began praying for patience, praying for understanding, and praying for direction in my life. I had no idea what would be in store for me, but God is teaching me none the less. With everything going on, Jonathan and I have had other decisions to make. Some are easy, some aren't so easy, but the bottom line is, God knows our purpose. God knows exactly where we need to be, and we are learning to trust in Him with EVERYTHING we do. I didn't know I was capable of learning so much within a short period of time, but God is my rock. and forever He will continue to guide me.
So here we are in August. It is been a crazy month. Celebrating 5 years of marriage has probably been the best part! Yes, I said that right... 5 YEARS! whoa, seriously, when did we grow up!? Lots of changes will be in the works in the near future, but I can tell you one thing, there is no other person I'd rather go through this crazy life with.
Holy Moly, I just wrote a novel.
I apologize for the lengthy read. Until next time... happy reading!
