Packed for Camp

It's winter and time for camp. Matt is off to Ponderosa Pines, Katie is off to Forest Home (my favorite place), and I have my bag packed for Compassionate Cancer Care Center. I really do have a bag packed (it's pink too). I have my blanket, pillow, water, snacks, and every gadget on the market. I have my nifty Nintendo DS - special edition for breast cancer (it has a pink ribbon on it - thanks, hunny!), my ITouch (thanks to my wonderful co-workers) which has many hours of entertainment, I have my Zune for all of my music, and my phone just because. Matt and Katie are not allowed the gadgets at their camp - I'm feeling special.

It's 11:37 pm pacific time and I'm still awake. I'm normally not awake this late (Katie is still awake with me). I do feel tired but not sleepy yet. I think I mentioned that if I fall asleep before tomorrow at 4:00 am, I've done well. I haven't experienced any weepiness (not sure that's a word), or anger. My family is pleased. Jim says he feels like I'm back to normal. Who would have thought steroids would bring me back to normal? I think he was just expecting some terrible tantrum. He's already in bed so I can't even fake one. The only thing that is annoying me is a headache. I'm counting down until I can have a couple extra-strength Tylenol.

Jim started a list of Traci-isms (words I say that don't actually exist). Probably only my family and those I work with can truly appreciate this list. I can't even remember what I said tonight but Jim and Matt thought it was a good one. My co-workers already have their list going. What is scary, is that I haven't even started chemo yet. Wait until I have chemo brain. I'm glad I can bring laughter to many.

Tomorrow, I am blessed to have Jim and Kellie going with me. I know they might not always be able to go - they both make great sacrifices to do this. I pray blessings over them. I have put so much on the both of them. They've seen me at the lowest of lows. They keep hanging in there with me and still love me. I know there are several more who were willing to take me and still might. I just want them to like me afterwards.

So...tomorrow is the day. We are prepared for the worst but hoping for the best. Chemo is different for everyone.

I just keep praying and trusting. No matter what I face I have to remember...

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13.

Oh, I really hope I remember that!!