Tomorrow means 1 down, 7 to go!!

Today like most days lately I found myself a little overwhelmed with appreciation for those around me.

Today I am especially thankful for:

My amazing daughter, who says things like "I wuv you sew mush Momma" (she really can annunciate, but because she says it in a cutesy voice it comes out sounding just like that. She also now says (because of the children's book "Chemo Cat") "Momma you hair gonna fall out, it's o.k., I hold it for you." Sophia had her first day at the "big school" today & she did great!

My better half Cooper. Who told me today as I was heading to pick Sophia up from school that I should come down for a hug. When I drove up to see him, he stepped outside to reveal his newly and completely shaved (nearly bald) head! Anyone that knows Cooper (unless you knew him at the age of 10) has never seen him with a serious buzz cut. He just doesn't do it. It honestly makes me feel better about losing my hair. We will be funny & bald together. And I love him.

My friends. Who not only have kept me inspired and strong, but who remind me of the great future ahead. Who keep me motivated to press on & not get wrapped up in the details. Shelli who has taken the day off tomorrow to hang with me in the chemo room and who brought me my precious dream box to get me through the tough times ahead. Michelle who continuously calls to make sure I'm doing alright and "keeps it light" :) Jaclyn who plans to go to Dim Sum with me on Sunday...3 days after my first chemo. I dunno about that one..chicken feet might be a real agitator for my stomach..but I'm goin' anyway!

My Mom & Dad. Throughout this have been there to listen and support me in many ways.

SEVEN. Has given me the great gift of focusing on my mental & physical health through the next few months and who have been supportive of my diagnosis & treatment through the entire year.

All the strong women that have gone through this before me. Who have gone through worse than I have. Living or not have taken the time & courage to share their stories. I am inspired.

So tomorrow at 8 a.m. I will drive a few blocks to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Get my blood drawn & step into the chemo room. Don't think I will ever be ready to start. But I sure as hell will be ready to get this over with. Tomorrow marks 1 down. Only 7 more to go!