Words

Sometimes there are no words to accurately describe an experience. This is one of those times.

My dad and stepmom were recently vacationing in Montana. I used some miles and flew out to join them.

My cousins, aunt, and uncle were also there.

And a few new faces as well.

I am reminded that family is more than just the people you are born to. Sometimes you're grafted in. Family is a collection of loved ones, and sometimes not-so-loved ones, connected by a bond others might not understand. Family is complicated and messy. Family has no borders and spans across miles, reunited in an instance of familiarity. Family is LIFE.

This is just one branch of my family tree. A part of me that I cherish despite the challenges of miles and different beliefs and interests. It's beautiful in its own way.

Stepping out of our every day lives and exploring God's beautiful creation together.

I'd almost believe nothing could interfere with the joy that brings to my healing heart.

My "mask" was difficult to wear despite these precious gifts. I was in pain and heavily medicated to tolerate it. I'm not prone to car sickness, but I struggled with the miles both on land and in the air. Sleep was a challenge too.

I wouldn't trade it for the world. I got to spend time with my daddy. It's never often enough or frequent enough. So I take what I can get.

PRAYER REQUEST: In a few minutes, I'm leaving for a couple MRIs of my spine. I'll have some of my skull and neck next month. I'm having increasing side effects and although my tumor cell count is down, so are my white blood cells and my neutrophils. My immune system is compromised and I can't afford to get sick. The smoke that rolled into the valley this week isn't helping either.

Also, my mind and heart are in a dark place. Please pray for me.