The winter of my life

After the Christmas season snow and cold become old hat--especially if you live in an area where a foot of snow over several days is normal. It's no longer pretty. It's a bitter cold inconvenience.

I am always watching the weather so I can prepare for whatever it may bring. Do I need to leave early? Should I cancel my plans? Will my daughter's school be closed tomorrow? 

I am currently in the bitter cold season of my life. Just when things are going okay, side effects flare up, or I get news I wasn't expecting, or lose yet another friend because they can't handle

cancer. It's frigid and dark. 

Just like the regional weather, there are breaks where the sun comes out. I receive a sweet surprise in the mail, I'm able to work a few extra hours at work, my husband reminds me how strong I am, I can go almost a month without pain medication, or like today my Mini Cooper ( my dream car that my husband bought me when I was diagnosis read about it here) accepts every snow challenge and wins! 

I also have to remind myself that winter temporary. Just like this season in my life is temporary. While I will be in treatment for the rest of my life, I will still have a life. Spring will eventually come on the calendar and in my life. 

I don't want to wish my life away into spring. I want to find joy in these winter days. Yes some days are bleak, but it's also one more day closer to beating cancer. It's one more day spent picking up my daughter from school. One more day enjoying my amazing friends at the office. It's one more day to tell my husband I love him. Even though there are hard, bitterly cold days warmth can be found when we choose to find joy.