Dear praying friends and family,

Thank you for helping us with your prayers!

A friend from school told me her church prays for me every morning, and last week I met a handful of people who said, “You don’t know me, but I feel like I know you. I pray for you every night.” I am so encouraged when you remind me, “We’re praying for you!”

Here’s the Latest:

Running (think bouncy walking!)

The last time I “ran” was six months ago – before surgery. Although I’ve walked my 2.57 mile loop nearly daily – sometimes with screaming bone and muscle pain – sometimes with clumsy, semi-numb feet – running seemed a far off dream.

But a couple days ago, I felt strong. So I tried it. 2 blocks. WooHoo! Today, I’m up to 8 blocks. Baby steps in the right direction.

Nearly Normal!

Recent conversation with Jacqui:

Jacqui: Mom, you’re nearly yourself again.

Me: Yes! But I’m still more tired than normal.

Jacqui:  And a little more ditzy!

True! However, after Breast Cancer #1, I wasn’t myself for a year! I remember leaning against the doorway of Tim’s home office, peeking in, smiling, and Tim commenting, “I have my Becky back.”

Radiation Days Numbered!

Six weeks ago, my sister and nieces showed up with a paper chain – numbered 1 to 33, each with a Hershey Dark Chocolate with Almonds attached – one for each treatment. Perfect! Nearly done!

As with chemo, the side-effects are managed better now, 30 years later. I still have fatigue,  radiation burn, tenderness, and tightening, but the creams are super effective in relieving itch and pain, and in healing wounds. Thankful!

School is Over!

I made it! So thankful for the support of my students, families, and colleagues! After wondering if I could teach at all, I ended up only missing 2 days due to treatment challenges. The year ended beautifully – tender tears, hugs, memories, and thoughtful gifts. My last week began with a “But God…” inspired art gift from one of the best gift-givers on the planet, continued with lavish love, and ended with a gift of beautiful headbands – for when my hair grows back! Undone.

Inspiration!

I wonder if I dared running again because of my dad. I think about him every day – cry every day. He passed away May 12.

Dad started running (real running, not bouncy walking!) when he was in his 40’s. He continued into his 70’s. I ran with him a time or two. Thankful!

Near the end of his life, when Dad could barely walk, he noticed I was cold. He got up, grabbed a blanket, and covered me. Dad made a habit of noticing when we needed a blanket and loved us by covering us. Good fathers cover their children.

He will cover you with his wings; you will be safe in his care; his faithfulness will protect and defend you. Psalm 91:4

Thanking God for you! Praying we know God as a good Father who covers us – more and more.

Love, Becky (His.Princess.Warrior.)

(Who, by faith, is still covered by a good, good Heavenly Father.)