Warriors in Pink, The Ultimate Booby Trap, Healing Touch and $253.40

Four precious gifts were given to me today. Four gifts of hope, joy and prayer. Four gifts of heart, thoughtfulness and determination. Four gifts that touched my heart and represent friends, family, colleagues and students helping me and my family the best way that they know how.

Steve brought home a gold-colored tin box tonight. Inside the box was a collection of $253.40 in coins and dollars of all different denominations. RDR's A-Team, a student-run organization that is overseen by teacher, Mrs. Janell Jones, has been collecting these monies since they heard of my diagnosis. I have been told that it is for something personal for me, but with all my family will endure over the course of the coming months, I am not sure that this is completely fair. I am touched and honored by this generous gift. My husband had tears in his eyes when he explained it to me. My daughter, Maddie, was careful to wash the money before she handed several pieces to me, germ-o-phobe that I am forced to be these days.

I also received an autographed book from a family friend of Kelly's parents, Bob and Dottie. The book is full of funny anecdotes and poems, all based upon the author, Jettie Kootman's experience with breast cancer. It is a cute book and I am touched that they sent it all the way from Phoenix. I look forward to reading it further.

LeAnn Eldridge, a fellow Green Elementary parent, sent information, a magnet and a neckerchief from Ford's Warriors in Pink Program. The symbolism of this campaign is phenomenal. I encourage you to check out the link: http://www.fordvehicles.com/warriorsinpink/.

Finally, my friend and colleague, Cheri Fidler, helped me through Healing Touch tonight. Something that I will never be able to explain to you all - it is something that must be experienced - and it is truly wonderful. It centers me, encourages my positive energy and strengthens my core.

So how am I doing? Well, how could I be doing any better? Love and encouragement seeps in at every angle. Whether it be from my own mother who has been at my side all week, to Tom watching over the re-model of our master bed and bathroom, to the numerous Facebook posts and text messages and messages on this blog. I am seriously stronger every day. A little nausea is inevitable it seems but nothing that I cannot handle. I walked today; I spent time with my kids; helped Harrison clean his room a bit; and had a nice evening with the family. My white cell shot did not even hurt today - I am getting better.

As stated in Warriors in Pink campaign, inside each woman is a believer, a survivor and a fighter. I am all of this and know I can be all this...thanks to you all.