Thriving Past Cancer: Marine's Journey

I am happy to say that I celebrated my 40th birthday two days ago.  I awaited it eagerly and when I awoke that morning, I exclaimed, "I made it! I made it to 40!" I never thought it would mean as much as it did, but it does, just as each morning is a celebration of life and a blessed celebration all its own. I don't know what to expect anymore. Each day is different and sometimes, the most magical of things come to pass without any warning. Had a day like this recently and I was reminded by it the night of my birthday when CJ (the individual I talk about below) texted me to wish me a Happy Birthday. I was taken aback by that text for reasons that are too long to explain here. But what I would like to explain today is how CJ entered my life two weeks ago. One of my best friends, an animation editor who works in Burbank, CA, asked me recently if I'd be willing to help a friend of his with a grant. Why did he reach out to me with this request? Well, for starters, h...

My dad died six years ago this week. We knew he was dying. It wasn't a surprise.  My husband and I drove up to Grass Valley so that our little one's didn't have to witness it. My father-in-law drove me down the very next day so that I could say goodbye before it was too late. I can't help but dream about and miss him, especially when August draws near. He was a strong man, filled with heart, and eager to help anybody and everybody. He had a quirky sense of humor and the most beautiful of voices. My relationship with my brother and his family is evidence enough of the endless devotion and love he shared with us. He spent thirty-three years in the states working non-stop to create a foundation that would outlive him. What bothers me about his death is the fact that he went way before his time. We live and work and follow the norms, we expect to live long enough to see our kids grow up, get married, have kids, become grandparents, and finally retire and enjoy the frui...