My dad has Stage IV melanoma. If there were such thing as Stage V, or perhaps even VI, he’d be that instead. And short of some unforeseen miracle, my dad will die within the next few months. In the wise words of my father, “cancer sucks.” But this weekend, we rejoice. Â This weekend we are together. This weekend all are alive and well. This weekend we pick apples, we watch movies, we go out to dinner, we tease, we laugh, we talk, we live, and we love. Â This weekend is a gift, and I am so very grateful for this weekend. Â
I’m not sure who came up with this somewhat cheesy, somewhat trite saying: Yesterday is history. Â Tomorrow is a mystery. Â Today is a gift. Â That is why it is called the present. Â But this weekend, I like it. Â
Lolly Beikirch says
How is your dad doing now…? We are praying for him as well as you all..all your hearts! <3
I was told just last year I had stage 2 breast cancer… and yes cancer sucks..but what I learned..that Big C "Christ has already conquered little c cancer..because C"Christ" has already conquered the grave!
Blessing Lolly Beikirch
thriftybeaver.com says
I'm sorry to hear(read) about your dad. Its really cool you're focusing on today and living in the moment with your family. For me it's so easy to forget to do this with my kids being so "strong willed" and driving me crazy all of the time. This is a lovely inspiring post Beth.
Anonymous says
Beth, Thanks for this. I am thinking so much about you and your family. Love you. Shelley.
Amy {The Red Chair Blog} says
What a beautiful post. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Julia Feitner says
Looks like you made some really special memories! May God give you and your family grace, patience, lots of good conversations and memories, and His strength during these final difficult days.
Miss Mustard Seed says
I'm sorry to hear about your dad. What a treasure to be able to spend time with him, knowing that is has to be precious. It makes you focus on the things that are really important. I wish the best for your family.
Beachbrights says
Thank you for sharing…
XOXO-
randee says
beth – 9 yrs. ago, this fall, i was doing chemo. the Lord gave me a verse from Exodus to use throughout my journey in the darkness that is cancer. "I will rain down bread from heaven" Exodus 16:4. everyday i prayed that God would give me what i needed, my manna from heaven, for that day. never knowing what the future held for me, i lived day by day, rejoicing in each day.
i rejoice with you & your family today for the gift of today.
and i'm praying that the Lord will continue to give your dad & the rest of you the strength you need that only He supplies.
blessings –
Charlotte says
hugs…xox
Courtney says
Your father is in my thoughts and prayers.
care says
Beth, I'm not good at posting. I wanted you to know how much I appreciate your blog and that I've been praying deeply for your beloved family. Your Dad is a gift and he has truly allowed God to use his circumstances for good. Thank you for reminding us of the gift of today. You and your family are much in our thoughts and prayers.
The girls and I came here to try your pumpkin craft with candy corn. I'm so glad I did. Your cousin,
Natalie says
I'm very sorry for what is going on, but happy for you that you can embrace today.
Thanks for the reminder so we can all do the same!
Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says
Absolutely, enjoy these moments while you can. My parents live close by and I am popping over there later today.
The Hopkins Home says
So sorry about your dad – that sucks. But it's so wonderful that you are enjoying the moment – filling it with good times and good memories for all of you. Keeping your family in my prayers.
Sue says
We never know what is going to happen day to day. I guess this is why we should live life to its fullest at all times. I'm glad you will have special memories of this weekend with your dad. Cherish them…
hugs, Sue
Carmen says
That was so well put! Every day truly is a gift to be opened with anticipation and thankfulness. Your photos are lovely, although I'm sorry for what's happening with your Dad.
I thought perhaps you were Canadian as we are celebrating Thanksgiving this weekend…and your post seems to go somewhat along those lines today.
I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers!
Jane says
What gorgeous photos/ memories you have given your dad. This is a beautiful post and a welcome reminder for me. Thank you for sharing.