A Season of Hope and Light Amidst Darkness

It's hard to believe that 10 months ago we were reeling from the shock of mom's diagnosis. And now here we are saying goodbye to summer and already jumping into fall. A lot has changed since then and we've had some ups and downs over the months of treatment but we are so very grateful for this precious time that we have been given with mom. 

Let me quickly relay that mom is doing well. She's had several MRIs over the last few months and they have shown no recurrence. This has been a huge gift considering the aggressive nature of her brain cancer.  We continue to take everything one month at a time. Mom's spirits are up and her side effects and symptoms from chemo have been kept at bay. She's tolerated the chemo medication well and has one more 5 day round in November. 

Her oncologist continues to encourage us with saying things like "each day is a gift" and "there's no time like now". So, per his instructions, we planned a girls trip to the Oregon Coast. It was beautiful and a much needed change of scenery for mom. She was in her element scouring the beach for precious rocks. 

While mom and her sweet friend Jalene took a break from the rock hunting, we went to explore the secret tunnel at Oceanside beach. 

We took in the beautiful Oregon coast appreciating Shag, Finley Rock, and Storm Rock and watching mom hunting rocks. Mom and Jalene rested for a bit as we explored the coast on what can only be described as a spectacular day. Hollie, Hillary and I found the secret tunnel through the mountain and followed the light at the end of the tunnel. We took in the panoramic view on the other side and found a little love waiting for us there. 

We had a bit of rain at the lighthouse but enjoyed one wild ride with Hillary behind the wheel at the Tillamook creamery. A little bad weather didn't stop us from enjoying the yummy Tillamook ice cream!

I didn't realize it at the time but the experience of finding Tunnel beach is much like our brain cancer journey. One beautiful day, you're walking along a sunny beach and everything is fine but the next thing you know, you're making your way through darkness not knowing what's ahead and stumbling as you go. We all go through the darkness of the unknown but what we're finding is that we can reach the LIGHT together and find a greater perspective and LOVE on the other side. Isn't that what life's experiences are all about? 

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued love and prayers. They continue to help us as we navigate the unknown, live with HOPE and recognize God's tender mercies along the way.