After my turmoil on Thursday, I was feeling much better with some rest on Friday. Thankfully, Grandma Brule (James'mom) was here to help out. After my last post I had some emails reminding me that I'm spunkier than I was feeling that day. I thank everyone for their encouragement, it helps me focus on what's important, staying positive and beating cancer. I don't know where my "spark" went, I assume it's from the doom and gloom chemo tends to bring out in us. Life is really what you make it, and right now, life needs me to rest and re-charge my batteries. It's like I'm in "time-out" for a few months, and although it's tough, I do see a light at the end of the tunnel. Maybe it's the nice weather and the promise of spring, but I'm started to get excited for the future.

Saturday was a busy day. Grandma Brule took Justin for the day and I rested up for a night out. James' High School (Greenall) in Balgonie hosted a "Steak Night" fundraiser for us at Tony Roma's in Regina. There were about 84 people who came out and it was a thrilling time for us. It was mostly for teachers and staff in the school division, but with extra tickets available family and some neighbors from Balgonie were also able to attend. They had a silent auction with beautiful gifts donated from anyone who had items to give. I really enjoyed catching up with Broadview friends, meeting new people from James' work, and family. What an incredible feeling to know peolple have come together to support your family. It was like I could feed off the energy in the room, it kept me going, letting me simply have a great time with some fun, caring people. It reminded me that I really like to socialize and "party". I'm told the food was good (I didn't eat) and everyone seemed to have a good time. I sipped my 7-Up all nite cruising from table to table. At one point I grabbed a glass of wine and took a big sniff...Ahh wait until summer.

I want to thank those who couldn't make it, but sent a note or a donation. I am continually amazed and inspired by the generosity of others. I met James' co-worker Carolyn who organized the event and feel privileged to know this spectacular woman with a heart of gold. It was alot of work for her and of course other staff members helped out. Greenall has been so understanding during this time, and for being new members of their family, we cannot thank them enough.

If you know James, we were of course the second last couple to leave. I was physically exhausted and had a huge coughing fit in the car that involved our "puke pail" and some regurgitation. I laugh when I think about the days I left a party and threw up for different reasons. I did feel better after and had a fairly good night's sleep.

Justin spent the evening with his cousins Kirsten and Dylan (and some babysitters). He is such a little trouper to go with the flow and not cause us too much trouble. I haven't put him to bed in a long time, so it was a treat for me to hold him tight as he fell asleep.

I'm looking forward to this week as it's my second week off from chemo and I usually feel pretty good. My parents are here until Tuesday so I can continue to re-charge.

Thanks for your love and prayers, Roxanne.