Friday, January 7, 2011

I'm just one and some photos

Today's shout out:

  Kate, Jeanne, Tracy, Yvonne, Gloria, Ellen, Ryann, Sharon, Nicole, Bonnie, Amy, K. Allen

*********************************************************

Hello friends... Here I am with my new cut... its shockingly short, but I am getting used to it...

Before


After



Here, I'm finally putting my Guardian Angel necklace back on since I'm bandage free now.  This lovely necklace was sent to me by my friend Jak right before I went into the hospital.


Oh my gosh... I so look like a girl version of my brother!


I thought I would add a couple of extra photos since I'm sharing. Kevin took this photo with my constant companion for 8 days.  This hallway was one that we tried to walk each day (after the first few).  Aren't those gowns 'da bomb!!!


Here's my Nate... he's such a hugger.


And Will in Granddad's hat.


Our Christmas card for next year?


I want to say that I had a great day yesterday... it was by far the best day I've had in the past month.  I believe that I will have continued wellness days and then we'll see how next Thursday's chemo infusion treats me.

With all the ups and downs this past month, I'd like to share one of the ups that have helped me along the way.  I have been honored to have  been bestowed with many personal stories about yourselves or those you've known who have gone through similar stories as mine or even stories that just share trials and tribulations.

Each and every story has touched my heart and made me realize that no, we aren't alone and that many of us share so many similar feelings even though our circumstances may differ.  In reading the variety of stories, it has made me forget my own situation and focus on others and their situations... I like forgetting about myself.

It reminds me that I am not alone and that there are so many people out there suffering in their own way. We might not share the same story, but we are all sharing a journey and each is equally important.

Thank you all again for visiting and sharing.  I will never be able to say it enough times to truly convey the depth of my emotion.

Until next time...

-Katie

85 comments:

Bernadette said...

I like the new cut - very cute and sassy. Glad to hear you had a good day! Love the pictures, especially the one with Nate (reminded me of my 6 year old, who's also a hugger and a kisser).

Marlene said...

Your new haircut is adorable on you. Fantastic pictures.

My sister's boyfriend is dealing with end stage bowel cancer. You really are not alone...though I cannot imagine how difficult it is to have to be dealing with this, period. Cancer sucks. I am praying for you.

Toni said...

loving the new cut Katie and some lovely pics of your loving supportive family hugs Toni xxx

Laura Isham said...

I'm so uplifted to see you smiling in those photos! Your strength knows no bounds. I think your haircut looks terrific. You should consider keeping it even after the chemo is over! :)

Margie Higuchi said...

Hey, I like the new do! You crack me up with "Oh my gosh... I so look like a girl version of my brother!" - LOL!!! Well, look at the bright side, you can now wash and wear the hair!

I'm glad that friends are sharing stories...it does make the world a little closer.

Here's to TGIF, friend! May it be worry-free and GOOD!

Warm thoughts your way! xo

Jessica Diedrich said...

Sending you TONS of positive vibes and also 'feeling' them just by coming to read your posts. You are AMAZING to me, Katie!!!

Chef Mama Lori said...

You are rockin' the short hair darling! So cute!

Louise Williams said...

the new short haircut looks fabulous on you!! gorgeous pics of your family too... sending good vibes your way for a healthy recovery :) x

Anonymous said...

Just found your blog, and wanted to send some positive vibes- I can't imagine going through this, but in the little I know about you from catching up on your story, I know that you have the attitude to face this head on and bravely! You seem to have a wonerful support system too- which is going to help tremendously.
Your description of your hair (not into, crazy frizzy, wavy) is me to a tee! Ironically enough I JUST made an appointment this morning to have it cut off- to donate for wig making- so I figure the timing is a sign that it is the right time, and not to chicken out!!
All the best Katie, thank you for sharing your story. I will think of you and send you healthy vibes from afar.... (Toronto, On Canada)
Diane
diane7@rogers.com

Mrs. Nancy G said...

What a sweet blessing to read that you had a good day.

Smiles,
~nance

Karen C said...

Glad you had a good day. Hope you have more!

Gram's Treasures said...

Hi Katie, I've just found your blog and read your incredible posts. I'm a cancer survivor, and know how you are feeling...it takes me back. Your posts are a great way of letting out your thoughts and feelings, definitely keep it up! You may also want to see if there is a support group in your area, where others with similiar issues get together...I found this was a great help. Oh, and I love your new haircut. Here's hoping you have another great day.
Joyce xx

Dinahsoar said...

You look great--your hair is adorable. You're going to beat this thing and be all the better for it. Hang tough and keep hope alive.

When I was first diagnosed and so sick at heart, my mom came to visit. She said she wanted to go to the antique mall. I could have cared less--I had no heart for anything, not even the antique mall which I loved.

But I didn't want to disappoint my mom. So I went.

But a strange thing happened while I was there! I found myself enjoying the venture. Seeing the vintage things brought joy to my heart and ministered comfort to me.

Exactly what I needed. I later realized mom knew that I needed a catalyst to get out there and continue to live.

Mom's know best don't they.

Attempt to do things in spite of feeling disheartened and you may discover you forget yourself and the hard place you journey.

I can tell from the pictures on this post you are doing just that.

Your courage is showing others the way.

Becky said...

Hi Katie;
I think you look fabulous with your short hair. I have worn mine short purposefully for many years. :)

Just stopped by to say hi and I am praying for you and your family.
hugs & blessing
Rebekka

Anonymous said...

Katie:

You're new hair style is gorgeous!! So sassy!! I found your blog from SCS and was touched by your story!! Your creations are fabulous and soon you will be back at it!! I am praying for you!!

squirrellyshirley

Candy F. said...

The haircut and your smiling face are awesome. I love the pictures that you shared too. Glad to hear that others have inspired you through their stories -- you should know that you are inspiring others with your story too. Love you.

Donna C said...

Your haircut is fabulous. I am so happy to read another one of your uplifting posts. I will check in tomorrow. Feel Good!!!

Karen B said...

Love the new do! The family pix are precious! Sending prayers your way!

Sharon Rittler said...

Love the new haircut!! You rock girl! I'm thrilled to hear you are having a good day too! I hope for many, many more of those for you! Keep your chin up because I, and many others, have faith that you will beat this!

Many blessings,
Sharon

Anonymous said...

I just came across your blog for the first time via Craft Critique, and have read your story. You seem like a brave woman. I will pray for you and your beautiful family. May you be strong and at peace in your journey.

Meredith MacRitchie said...

I actually really like your hair!! You are so inspiring, your attitude just amazes me. I love that you can see outside of yourself, rather than wallow like so many of us would do. I can only hope that if I am ever faced with something like this, I would take a page from your book! :) Stay strong!!!

K. Joy said...

Oh, your hair is cute cut like that!! (Cute in a good way - I mean a sophisticated-ish cute.) :) Thanks for sharing the pictures! Praying for you!

Shannan Teubner said...

Katie, you look GORGEOUS!! I hope you have a belly laugh today :)

Holly Young said...

oh Katie, I think your new hairstyle looks great! And you know the other day you were talking about how your hair would be frizzy or out of control? Well, if you go to wearing a wig you won't have that problem anymore! You can have the hair you always wanted! I think you have a beautiful family too, and thanks for sharing photos!

Kelly S. said...

ACK, I knew it! Your hair REALLY looks adorable! Your smile just shines through each and every picture...even the hallway shot. I want to be just like you when I grow up :) That picture of you and Nate is my favorite, though! Sweetest ever!

Tammy Hershberger said...

I can understand the shock of the new haircut, but it is TOTALLY ADORABLE on you!!! You wear it well! Your family is beautiful, too! Hugs and prayers, Katie! Keep smiling whenever you can!

Mary Friederichsen said...

Your new do is adorable Katie!
Love those pictures as well,Thank you for trusting in us enough to share them.
Definetly Christmas card potential in several of them!

Blessings and Hugs for a Grace filled day!

Anonymous said...

Katie,
You are ONE... but ONE can have such a big impact on ALL!
You look great girl...
Em

Joan B said...

I look forward to your posts. the do is adorable. every day an adventure, some horrible, some not too bad. thanks for taking the time to share.

Gloria Dojlido said...

LOVE your new haircut....so pixie cute and sexy! You look fabulous with both short and long hair.

HUGS

Gloria

Unknown said...

You look just wonderful! Thanks for sharing pics with us! I'm so glad you had a good day today! What a blessing!

Amy Heller said...

You look fantastic! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers!

JKB said...

I have been following your story. I think you new DO is great! It makes you look younger!
I am glad it was a good day.

Ted said...

Katie, that new haircut is VERY flattering. I have to admit that when you described it a day or so ago, I thought, "Uh oh... what does it look like?" But you look adorable! Stylish and, as I said... extremely flattering. You wear it well! :)

I loved reading this semi-upbeat post. :) Your family is beautiful.

God bless.

Anonymous said...

You look good in your new cut Katie. You are such an inspiration to all of the people who read your blog. I may not know you and you me, but know that a stranger is praying for you. Such a lovely family you have. In this times of tribulations and trials, at the end of the day, it is our family that matters the most. It is from them that we pull our strength from, they are our hope that keeps us to fight whatever battle we are in and they are our rock and refuge when we feel so down. Keep the faith and pray to your guardian angel always and know that he is beside you all the time as he is our guardian, designated to us by Our God.
dadatch101
(neo47.anderson1@yahoo.com)

Crafty_Kitten said...

I have just found your blog through Jak Heath's FB page. I love the hairdo, it so suits you short like that. I have had a read through some of the posts and I am sending healing loving vibes your way and wish you well with your chemo.
I am going to have to go back and read through the earlier posts to find out your story.
The pics here are fantastic, you have such a lovely family.
I will be keeping you in my prayers from now on.
xx Lynn xx

Lori m said...

Katie I'm new to your blog via way from Jak's blog, but I adore your new look. Very sheik and it's so much easier to care for short hair. New Year, new dew and a new you.

May you be blessed with many miracles and thank you for sharing your photos and story, I could focus on you instead of me.

Lori m

ReneeK said...

Katie - Your hair is soooo cute! Just have to tell you, I remember dragging that IV pole around - with 2 pumps piggybacked...the only difference was I was in a clinic setting and not inpatient. You sort of get used to that constant companion. The port, on the other hand....I don't think I ever got used to that thing. It made blood draws and chemo infusions so much easier, though, so it was worth it.

Shirley said...

Hi Katie, I am new to your blog. I have read everything. You look beautiful in your new haircut. It shows off your face and your eyes. You are an amazing woman. You are in my prayers Katie. You are not alone in your journey.

Shirley

Julia Aston said...

Hi Katie - just stopping in to say hi! your new haircut looks great! so easy to care for - so glad you had a good day today - thanks for sharing your pics with us - your kids are just the cutest! I said a prayer for you today..

Unknown said...

Hi Katie, I'm new to your blog having found you on the SCS forums. I'm amazed, inspired, and heartbroken all at the same time by your story. Thank you for sharing the little details as well as the big ones. I am lifting you up in prayer to the Lord.I know I would not be able to go through anything like this without knowing Jesus as my Savior. You should get to know Him, He is awesome. If you have a Bible start reading the book of John in the New Testament. I'm glad you are home, nothing feels quite like it. I read your entry about coming home and how everyone had been living life as usual...I've been there briefly.
Katie you are young woman of great importance to the Lord-you are loved!
blessings and prayers
Kathy

♥ Lydia ♥ said...

It's 2am here in the UK...but with coffee in hand I came over to see how you're doing.
So glad you've had a good day...and WoW!! Just love your new hair cut...it soooo suits you! Fab pictures...I hope Will doesn't give Granddad's hat a hair cut too!! Eeeek! ^.^
My coffee is finished, and I suppose I'd better make my way to bed! I wish you another good day tomorrow...with love and hugs x

Davi said...

Wohoo glad to hear you had a good day yesterday and praying for many more to come! You look fabulous in that fun new cut. Sweet pics of your babies. love and prayers

Kristen said...

Hi Katie,
While this is my first time visiting your blog, I am familar with your fabulous creations. I just got caught up on your story and you are truely amazing. Your shining spirit is felt through your writing.
I am glad you're having a good day, and your new "Do" looks great. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Stacy Morgan said...

Katie your new hair cut is adorable, you look so cute. I love the gown too. lol Rest and prayers..

~* steph :) *~ said...

i love your new do, katie! it's cute :). keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. big *hugs* steph :)

Sue from Oregon said...

Katiebug...so love the new "do" I think is a such chic look! Such wonderful pics of your family!

Making Cards With Crafty Sue said...

Hello Katie,

I love you new hair cut and to be totally honest I think it suits you better short, you look younger,

I have read your story and it brings back memories for me, I lost 2 brothers and 2 sisters to cancer and I now have another sister with bowel cancer and like you she will beat this disease, I know the 2 of you have the strength and power to overcome any obstacle put in your way,

I will keep you in my thoughts and visit you here regular...you're an inspiration and I love you for it,

take care from Susan downunder

Diane Mars said...

Katie- You look cute with your new doo! It really is a great fresh look and timing how perfect for Spring & Summer. You sure do have some great lovable boys. I am glad to have found your Blog yesterday, you sound like a very neat person, and I hope checking in here with you will keep you staying strong getting that healthy body back! Hugs, Diane

Linda S. said...

Hi Katie, I have found your blog by lurking around the SCS site. Last night I read your entire family blog, and enjoyed it so much. You, and others in your family are great photographers. I was reading "backwards" so it was fun to see your sons getting smaller and smaller.
I must tell you like several others have, how much younger you look with your hair cut short. Looks VERY GOOD on you. Of course I enjoyed all the family photos today, but my favorite was the one where you are putting on the guardian angel necklace. It was so nice to see you smile with all you have been through. Please stay strong, keep that necklace on, and know that many others are walking right beside you.
Linda S. in NE

Debbie Pamment said...

Oh Katie the new do is sooooo cute! You're just not used to it but from out here it looks spunky and cute! You and your family are in my thoughts - you are such a beautiful writer and I'm sure sharing your story is helping both you and others out there.
Stay strong!
xXx

Chris said...

Katie, I think the cut is very attractive.

Theresa Tyree said...

Katie, you're beautiful- inside and out!
You know, I must've been having sympathy stomach pains for you for the last 6 months. It's been so bad that I, too, have had tests run. I also had H. Pylori and had to take a 14 day regimen of 4 different pills to kill the bacteria. I wasn't aware of the follow up test for that, so thanks for that bit of info. I also had an endoscopy on my stomach and a colonoscopy. My endoscope showed gastritis. My colonoscopy was clean. I had my gall bladder taken out in 2007, so the dr.s think I have an obstructed bile duct. I said I wasn't going to bother with the follow up until after finals. I noticed that my stomach hurts worse after I take nexium, isn't that counter-productive?? Anyway, you have inspired me to follow up on my stomach issues. Maybe I'm just having sympathy pains for you. I'm worried cuz Connor has been complaining of his stomach hurting alot too. So we've been back to the doctor a couple times for it. I don't know why I told you all this. Maybe it's because I want you to know I feel for you and that you've inspired me to pay more attention to my health. I've caught up on all your posts. Thank you for giving me such an intimate view of what you are going thru. I can not even imagine. I will continue to lift you and your family up in prayer. Please keep writing and keeping us all informed. We will walk this journey with you. You are not alone.

Unknown said...

Your a brave lady sharing your experiences. Sending you some absent healing across the pond, take care.

melinda said...

I love your smile. :) Your hair looks great but it's your smile that I notice when I look at your picture. Hugs to you & your family. Hang in there and hope you have many moments that make you smile through this journey.

Anonymous said...

Your family is adorable and I can tell you are well loved by all of them. Your hair looks awesome. Your energy and sense of humor and positiveness is amazing. My thoughts and prayers go to you and your family during this time.

Cassie said...

I liked your long hair. . .don't get me wrong, but wowza, Katie. . .you're a HOTTIE with that short hair!

I love all the pics of your adorable family ;D

Leeci said...

Katie - LOVE the haircut! It's absolutely adorable and looks great on you! Thanks for sharing the pics...you have a lovely family! {{hugs}} Leeci

babette said...

coucou

je vous ecris de FRANCE près de PARIS pour vous envoyez plein de bonne energie et de courage pour affronter la lutte contre votre maladie
il parait que le moral est tres important dans cette lutte alors continuez a vous battre et vous vaincrez votre maladie
je vous embrasse bien fort
a bientot
babette

lolo said...

LOVE your new do, looks great, I think it is a great fit

~amy~ said...

hey there, I'm a new follower...had to pop in and tell you how chic you look in your fabbie new hair cut...your post is so filled with positive energy...I just wanted to let you know that I'm one in a huge community of papercrafters that wish you lotsa love and strength through this journey of yours...

Anonymous said...

I love your new haircut, it looks so good on you. Be glad you have the curly hair. I had chemo and lost my hair. My straight hair was so flat on my head when it grew back out. I can tell you that you get to the point that the hair is not so important anymore. Now when I get a bad haircut, I just say it will grow. No problem. I hope your chemo gets easier for you as you go. Sometimes it does. I am now a 15 yr cancer survivor. I give God the glory. I hope you will take the advise of an earlier commenter and read the chapter of John. A personal relationship with the Lord is what helped me to get through my chemo and the what if's of life. There are also cancer support groups which help many through these times. I will be praying for you and your family.

Shirley

Kristii said...

You look so cute in your new haircut!!! I love it!! I'm so glad you had a good day!! They are definitely a treasured time!!! I am thankful for you! You have inspired me tremendously!!!

Anonymous said...

Katie,

You are one brave woman. May your story teach many of us who sometimes we may take life and special moments for granted. Kate, always remember in your heart that no matter what Drs. say what matters is the higher power that you have acknowledge. My prayers are with you and your family. May God bless you and give you the strenght daily.

Mel said...

Katie,

I have just found your story through Jaks blog. I am so amazed by your courage & positive attitude.

Your new haircut is fabulous, it suit you.

Thank you for sharing your story. I will be thinking of you

Take care Mel in UK

linda m said...

Katie, you are in my thoughts and prayers everyday. You are an amazing woman, such strength . And thank you for sharing your story.. Like your new haircut..

Pam S said...

Your hair looks great! But then, I'm biased towards short hair. :)
You're so positive and strong, and I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Sewflake said...

Cute and Sassy! Love the new do, but then I have been a short hair gal for most of my life.
Yes, we all have a journey of our own but you are so able to put your journey into words that touch all our lives no matter where we are in ours.

Joseline said...

Hey Katie,

Sending you a quick note to tell you I'm praying of you. Just finished reading through your journey since your test results. Know that God is our healer. Ask Him to cover you, protect your family and keep you.

You are an inspiration to us all to write such beautiful words of encouragement when it's you that needs it most. Thank you for your strength.

In Him,
Joseline

Karen said...

Hiya Katie!

If I could chop my hair off and look half as dang cute as you then I'd do it tomorrow!! Honestly........it looks so lovely!

I just loved looking at the pictures today especially of your little boy hugging you - that is just priceless! You can tell he loves his mummy! lol

Luv Karen
AUSTRALIA

Unknown said...

Hi Katie,
Just found your blog today. You are an inspiration. I'm praying for you.

All the best,
jenny

PS...your hair is ADORABLE! :-)

Anonymous said...

HI. I'M NEW ON YOUR BLOG BUT WANTED TO SAY YOUR FAMILY IS ADORABLE! SHORT HAIR MAKES YOU LOOK YOUNGER ANYWAY. GLAD YOU HAD A GOOD DAY. GET WELL.
STELLA B.

Theresa Tyree said...

Just checkin in on ya, girlfriend. Love ya. Hope today is a good day for you.

Anonymous said...

Katie...my name is Jael and I have just discovered your blog. I live very near you - I live in Ferndale and work in Bellingham.

Are you getting your treatment at St Joes? I am going out of town on Monday night but will be back the following Monday from a Stampin Up Leadership Conference in Nashville. I would love to meet you and share the wonderful papercrafts that I received while there. Let me know if you'd like to do that. My email: rubberstamp@comcast.net

p.s. I love your haircut by the way.

Maria said...

I love your new haircut I think it makes you look younger! And looking younger is always a good thing!!!

Claire said...

It's good to read you had a good day, I love the new hair do, it suits you. The pictures of your kids and family are beautiful.
Claire xxxxxxx

June K said...

Hugs, Katie. I'm so glad you had a good day. BTW, I love your short hair. It's so cute. I know if you never had short hair or not for a long time it probably takes getting used to....

Curt in Indy said...

It's so wonderful to see the face of this gorgeous young woman and her beautiful family. I'm serious, your short hair cut is AWESOME! It makes you look so young. It also reminds me of a tough warrior's cut, you go girl!!! You keep kicking that cancer's ass! Loved this post and the pics of your family. Hug them all and draw from their strength as well as all of ours who are out here pulling for you! Stay strong! Best, Curt

JenMarie said...

Oh Katie...love the new cut....tres chic girlie!! {{HUGS}} and prayers!!

Lorraine said...

Katie,
You look just like my cousin. With your face shape, perfect little nose & gorgeous smile, you can pull off any haircut! (I'd look like a dork) Thank you for sharing your personal & hospital photos with us. Your family is so beautiful! Hugs & prayers with you all.
Lorraine

Runnergirl Creations said...

Thank you for sharing your pics! I think you look great with the haircut! It always takes me a while to get used to a new hair style. It's just hair, right? It'll grow again. :)

Jessica said...

Hi Katie, I love the new do! It's adorable. And like I said before, you have such a beautiful face!
Hugs, Jazzyjess49

Mary Samson said...

Loving the new haircut! Now, instead of hiding behind your hair, the sassy, take charge, chic and ready to kick butt Katie is there!! It really does look great!
And it is so good to see you smiling, and soaking up the luvin' of those sweet little ones! You hang tough and enjoy the good days. You can do this!

jackib said...

I, too, have just found your blog and read it all from the post when you said you had a doctor's appt. coming up because of tummy issues. I can't imagine receiving a diagnosis such as yours and am amazed at the strength you share in your blog. Your boys are absolutely adorable!! And your new haircut? INCREDIBLY CUTE!!! My very most positive thoughts will be with you as you continue in your quest for ultimate health.

A Consuming Passion said...

Hi Katie!
Firt things first..........your new look suites you perfectly!! You look younger and very trendy!!!!
Hospital gowns are hideous aren't they.......wouldn't you think they could come up with something better!
Tell you what..... they look worse on men! and here they are just plain either white or pale blue yuk!
I so hope you have more good days... and contine to hold you and your family in my thoughts.

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