In a few days I get to celebrate my birthday. I have always loved to celebrate everything - from getting new school supplies to a big birthday party and everything in between. My family celebrates. A lot. Through these past years facing my cancer we've learned that life is fragile and that the little things really are the big things and should be celebrated. We have gotten so many Ice Cream Cakes from DQ that I'm pretty sure that we help keep our local store in business. So to say that we love celebrating would be a major understatement. I am so excited to celebrate my 21st birthday on February 1st. God has given me another year of life. It's a big deal people! At my clinic appointment on Tuesday my nurse asked me "So how many birthdays has it been now that your Doctor said you wouldn't have?" we both laughed and as I thought about it later I realized just how big of a deal it is. On my 19th birthday I cried a lot and bemoaned the fact that this was my last birthday I'd ever get to celebrate. What a terrible waste of a birthday that was!! As I head into this birthday, I'm not daft, I know that the cancer is spreading through my body and at some point I will be leaving this earth, but I choose not to focus on that. I choose to focus on today and live in the moment knowing that God holds me in the palm of His hand and He has a plan for me and only He knows the number of my days. Some days though I do feel sadness, knowing that the days I have left are fewer than most 20 year olds. I don't want to leave my family and friends. I do have the assurance that I will see most of them again in heaven. I do pray that those who have not yet surrendered their lives to Jesus will do so. I want you in heaven with me. Jesus is the only way into heaven. I am so glad that I don't have to worry about the after life and that I know I will be in heaven when my soul leaves this earth. Okay, back to the celebrating - I am having the best birthday week ever!! I have received numerous gifts from many friends and family. O how I love the pretty flowers and the thoughtful gifts that I have gotten. I am so blessed! I am having a small family birthday party tomorrow so if you think to pray for me I would appreciate it. I love guests but they do tire me and I experience a lot of pain from having to be up and I love all the food but it does make me nauseous. I know I will have a wonderful time with family laughing and talking - I cherish these moments. So while I celebrate my birthday I want you to celebrate too. Celebrate the little things, a hug from a loved one or the beauty of the day - whatever it may be - cherish it.
Love to you all,
Kayli
Love to you all,
Kayli