My cancer journey - Twenty years later!

 My Cancer Journey

In January 2006, while pregnant with my fifth child, I discovered a lump in my breast. Initially dismissed by my doctor, it grew rapidly. A biopsy revealed invasive ductal carcinoma—an aggressive breast cancer.

I had surgery while pregnant, and fortunately, my baby was born healthy. Six days later, I began chemotherapy, followed by 43 radiation treatments. My hair fell out, I was exhausted, and life with five kids didn’t pause—but I survived.

Cancer changed my life: it taught me to cherish every moment, see the bigger picture, and fight for my health. Today, I am grateful to be cancer-free and to have a loving family by my side.

Breast Cancer Awareness:

• Perform monthly self-exams

• Schedule annual clinical exams and mammograms

• Early detection saves lives—don’t wait

One in eight women will face breast cancer. Early action can make all the difference.

Commit (The Sweet Rom "Com") by Kortney Keisel - A Review

This was a sweet, second-chance rom-com novella with excellent banter (my absolute favorite) and lovable characters. Told in alternating past and present timelines, it’s filled with tender moments between Matt and Remi that were easy to fall for.

Set in beautiful Key West, the story brings the exes together for a mutual friends’ wedding—awkwardly sharing a hotel suite after having RSVP’d while still together. Forced proximity plus unresolved feelings makes for plenty of sparks.

Remi can be frustratingly self-absorbed, but her insecurity and fear of commitment add emotional depth that feels messy and real rather than just cute. Matt, on the other hand, is patient, sincere, and wonderfully steady. Despite its short length, the story balances lighthearted humor with genuine vulnerability, showing that love—and healing—aren’t always easy.

I give Commit 4 out of 5 stars. If you love second-chance romances with witty banter, chemistry, and a vacation-like setting, this novella is a sweet, satisfying read with a meaningful message about love, patience, and working through hard things.

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The Fall Risk By Abby Jimenez - A Review

I’m completely charmed by this author — her writing, characters, and humor are my new happy place. It’s wild how such a short story can still feel deep, sweet, hilarious, and even a little suspenseful. The unusual setup throws Seth and Charlotte together perfectly, and I loved every minute of their trapped-together banter. No wonder everyone raves about her heroes — Seth and Gabe are both swoon material. Short stories like this are the perfect literary palate cleanser.

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Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins - A Review

Book Review: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Catching Fire picks up where The Hunger Games left off, following Katniss Everdeen after her shocking victory. Life in Victor’s Village should be safe—but instead, danger lurks around every corner. Katniss and Peeta’s defiance has stirred unrest across Panem, and President Snow is watching their every move.

Told from Katniss’s perspective, the story pulls readers into her uncertainty, fear, and fierce determination. She’s not always easy to like, but her honesty makes her incredibly relatable, and you can’t help but care deeply about the people she’s trying to protect. Romantic tension exists, but the real focus is on power, control, and rebellion.

The pacing starts slow, but it builds to shocking twists and a finale that completely reframes everything that came before. Catching Fire raises the stakes in every way and proves that a sequel can be just as intense—and even more thrilling—than the first book.

A must-read for fans of action, strategy, and heart-pounding suspense.

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The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Chronicles of Narnia) By CS Lewis - A Review

C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe isn’t just a children’s story—it’s a masterclass in adventure, courage, and the timeless battle between good and evil. Narnia leaps off the page with talking animals, magical landscapes, and unforgettable characters.

Two lessons stand out: first, good always finds a way to triumph, even when darkness seems unstoppable. Second, unity and sacrifice can achieve the impossible, as Aslan leads the Narnians not for personal glory, but for freedom and life itself.

The movie skips a few tense scenes, like the children and the Beavers nearly drowning, but the heart and magic of the story remain. Vivid, thrilling, and utterly immersive, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves courage, wonder, and the power of hope.

A timeless classic that will stay with you long after the last page.

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The Nightingale: A review

Book Review: Hauntingly Memorable

This book didn’t just impress me—it stayed with me long after I turned the last page. From the very first chapter, I felt emotionally connected to the characters—their pain, fear, and hope felt incredibly real. I kept wishing I could step into the story and shield them from the hardships they faced.

The sisters’ strength in the face of unimaginable challenges is nothing short of inspiring. I loved how the story showcased the vital role women played during the war—not just their suffering, but their resilience, courage, and determination. Their journeys are moving, powerful, and unforgettable.

This is a story that resonates with the heart. Beautifully written, deeply meaningful, and impossible to forget, it’s a must-read—whether you’re a fan of WWII historical fiction or not. Once you finish it, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know.

Highly recommended. A story that stays with you.

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Fears and Healing

Update: 

I have finally been healed from this. At times the thought still crosses my mind, but instead of fear, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come in healing from past trauma.

Original Post: 

Glass doors. Screens. ATMs. Tape. Glue. Phones. Windows.
For years, all of them triggered the same response: fear.

One of my strangest struggles was using tape at work. You can’t use it without leaving fingerprints—and that used to send my anxiety into overdrive. Not because I’d done anything wrong, but because trauma has a way of quietly rewiring the brain.

I wasn’t always like this.

After my divorce, my ex stalked me. One incidence that I can share: He broke into my home repeatedly, watched through windows, tampered with the house, and followed me everywhere. One afternoon, I walked into my kitchen and found him inside. He fled wearing surgical gloves. The officer who arrested him told me plainly, “That man would eventually kill you.”

That kind of fear doesn’t disappear overnight. It burrows in and resurfaces later in unexpected ways—like fingerprints on tape.

But understanding the why changed everything.

Once I connected the dots, I realized the fear no longer served a purpose. It was born out of survival—but I’m no longer surviving. I’m healing. I’m safe. And I’m in control.

Fear doesn’t get to dictate my life anymore. I choose power, clarity, and peace. Every day

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - A Review

This series moves so fast it basically grabs you by the collar and yells, “You’re not sleeping tonight.” The pacing and nonstop action keep you completely hooked, and the stress is real. I can’t even properly explain the edge-of-your-seat feeling—you’ll just find yourself reading “one more chapter” until it’s suddenly 2 a.m. and your alarm is judging you. You’ll tear through the entire series without caring even a little about the lack of sleep.

If you haven’t read The Hunger Games yet, now is the time. Seriously. It’s never too late to join the emotional chaos. These books are great at any age, but they’re especially perfect for young teens or reluctant readers—mostly because once you start, the book refuses to let you quit. Resistance is pointless.

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Femininity is making a comeback

 I’ve been reading a fascinating book on relationships, and its foundation is all about embracing femininity—frills, lace, and all the details. It made me wonder: why have we drifted so far from the traditions of historical womanhood? These foundations existed for centuries—surely there was a reason.

Think about Gone With the Wind. Scarlett may have seemed rebellious, even “unfeminine” by her era’s standards, but by today’s measures, she was far more feminine than the average woman in the U.S. now.

When did we start trying to blend in with men instead of standing apart? Why do we want to be treated just like they are? I love my comfy jeans and a tee as much as anyone, but when I take the time to get dolled up—even small changes like a black ruffled blouse—it affects how I feel. Confident. Special. Noticed.

Case in point: I wore a frilly, feminine shirt on a outing and had so many compliments on it. I never would have expected it—but it made me think. Maybe leaning into simple expressions of femininity can quietly transform the way we feel about ourselves… and how others see us.

Funnel Cakes

 I Adore Funnel Cake

Nothing beats a homemade funnel cake—crispy, golden, and dusted with just the right amount of powdered sugar. Bonus points for cinnamon!

Ingredients:

• 

• 4 cups flour

• 1/3 cup sugar

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 1/2 cups milk

• 3 large eggs

• 3 cups vegetable oil

• 1/2 tsp vanilla

• Powdered sugar to finish

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350–375ºF. Test with a drop of batter—it should bubble.

2. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla—mix until smooth.

3. Pour batter into a gallon-size Ziploc, snip a 1/4-inch corner, and drizzle into hot oil in a swirling web.

4. Fry 2 minutes until golden, flip, fry 1 more minute. Drain on paper towels.

5. Dust with powdered sugar and serve hot. 

Paid in full

 After living what I thought was a “decent” life, my time on earth ended, and I found myself in a courtroom. The prosecutor—Satan—stood, his voice sharp and accusing, listing every lie, every theft, every wrong I had ever done. With each word, shame weighed heavier, and I sank in my seat. I couldn’t even look at my Attorney sitting silently beside me.

Then He stood. My Attorney—gentle, kind, familiar. It was Jesus.

He approached the Judge and said, “Yes, she has sinned. She deserves punishment. But I died on the cross so she could have life. She belongs to Me. Her name is written in the Book of Life, and no one can take her from Me.”

The gavel struck. “Case dismissed. Paid in full.”

Satan ranted, but it didn’t matter. Mercy had won. Justice had already been paid.

No matter our past, if we’ve accepted Christ, our debt is erased. The verdict is always the same: freedom, forgiveness, and eternal life.

The Art of a Compliment

The Art of a Compliment: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Compliments aren’t just about making someone else feel good—they boost the giver, too. A thoughtful compliment can break the ice, motivate, inspire, comfort, reward, validate, and even diffuse stress. But a careless one? It can backfire.

Here’s how to make your compliments count:

Be Sincere. People know when you’re genuine. If you can’t honestly compliment a haircut or outfit, focus on something you can praise—jewelry, a smile, or even effort. Speak from the heart.

Be Specific. Instead of “Nice job,” try: “I love how you added that detail—it really makes the painting come alive.” The more specific, the more meaningful.

Back It Up. Show that your words have weight: “That blouse is beautiful—it really brings out the blue in your eyes.” Authenticity is everything.

Keep It Unconditional. Avoid tacking criticism onto praise. “This meal was great…except for the mushrooms” is no compliment at all.

And receiving compliments? Just as important:

Say Thank You. Don’t deflect or try to repay it immediately—it can feel forced.

Don’t Disqualify It. Responses like “It was nothing” or “This old shirt?” erase the giver’s effort and kindness. Accept it fully.

Compliments are a small gesture with a big impact. Given thoughtfully and received graciously, they can lift spirits, strengthen relationships, and create a ripple of positivity in your day-to-day life.

Patrick Picklebottom and the Penny Book - A Review

Book Review: Patrick Picklebottom and the Penny Book

Join Patrick Picklebottom on a whimsical adventure that celebrates the magic of reading! When young Patrick discovers his favorite book for just one penny from a kind-hearted store owner, his imagination takes flight. Vivid illustrations, playful rhymes, and a heartwarming story make this a delightful read for kids and families alike.

From the author of Ricky, the Rock that Couldn't Roll and Tess, the Tin that Wanted to Rock, this story is bursting with charm, creativity, and lovable characters. Think the playful spirit of Shel Silverstein, the warmth of Mo Willems, and the rhythmic fun of Dr. Seuss—all wrapped into one unforgettable book.

Perfect for kids ages 3–9 (Pre-K through 3rd grade), Patrick Picklebottom and the Penny Book is a story families will treasure and read again and again. 

Highly recommended for little readers with big imaginations!

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Nickelodeon PAW Patrol: Pup-tastic Halloween - A Review

Get ready for Halloween fun with Ryder, Chase, Marshall, and the whole PAW Patrol crew in this adorable lift-the-flap book packed with surprises. With 24 flaps to open, little readers can join their favorite pups as they prepare for Halloween in Adventure Bay.

Ryder can hardly wait, and neither will your kids. From costumes to spooky (but not scary) surprises, every page invites children to explore, guess, and discover what’s hiding underneath each flap. The interactive elements keep young readers engaged while celebrating the excitement of the Halloween season.

Perfect for PAW Patrol fans, this book is a festive favorite that kids will want to read again and again—making it a fun addition to any Halloween book collection.

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Mrs. Geraldine's Ground Beef Casserole

Mrs. Geraldine's Ground Beef Casserole: A Family Favorite

Confession: this photo does not do this recipe justice. Trust me—this is hands-down one of our family’s all-time favorites. Always a hit, never disappointing, and seriously… ahh-mazing. Once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!

• 
  

• Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 (15 oz) can tomatoes

  • 1/4 cup chopped onion

  • 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper

  • 1/4 cup chopped celery

  • 1 (8 oz) can mushrooms

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or 2 tbsp sweet pickle juice

  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 (10 3/4 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

  • 1/4 lb sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1 (6 oz) package angel hair pasta, cooked (approx. size—original recipe said “small bag”)

  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  Directions:

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven.

  2. Add onions, bell pepper, and celery; simmer for 15 minutes.

  3. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, mushrooms, brown sugar (or pickle juice), and Worcestershire sauce.

  4. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. Cook in the skillet for 1 hour.

  Optional: sprinkle cheddar cheese on top for a melty, savory finish.

  This is comfort food at its best—hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got dinner that will get raving reviews every time.

•  

From Food.com

I found it here:  Mrs. Geraldine's Ground Beef Casserole

Featured Art

Kiera's Masterpiece - Age 5

Kiki's First Fish

While camping, Kiki decided she wanted to fish. Problem: no poles. Did she care? Nope. She grabbed a string, a hook, and a leftover piece of sausage—and two minutes later, she caught a fish!

Yep. Christmas wish? A real fishing pole, of course.

Kiera is Engaged

Kiki told me a story tonight: When she was on the school bus today a boy asked her "Will you marry me?" Kiki being in kindergarten told the boy, "no". She then told me, "But mommy, he is handsome." (Mommy and Miranda both say awe..... Now your turn.)

My Five Year Old Daughter and Her Children are Moving In

We’re heading to Dollar Tree tonight after picking up all the big kids from track and drama practice. Kiki is fully prepared, armed with her life savings—$2.60—collected from random house discoveries and her first visit from the Tooth Fairy.

On the drive to the junior high:

Kiki: Maybe I should save all this money so I can buy a house.
Me: Houses cost a lot of money, honey. More than you can even count.
Kiki: Oh.

Later…

Kiki: Mommy, when I’m a mom, I’m going to live with you.
Me: Why? So I can help with the kids?
Kiki: No.
Me: Because you love me so much?
Kiki: No.
Me: Then why, Kiki?
Kiki: Because I don’t have enough money to buy a house.

Love her.

Paper golf phase 2

Nathan expanded his paper golf course!

Paper Golf Anyone?

Nathan, my little brilliant 12 year old, apparently was bored after he completed the mock testing at school yesterday. He created this elaborate paper ball golf course. The double with the ramp and chute certainly would be a challenge.

Should I Read my Oncology Report?

Today marks six years since I had my breast cancer surgery while I was 29 weeks pregnant with Kiera. My journey has shaped who I am, but I’ll be honest—I’m tired of it. I am deeply grateful to be a survivor; many men and women don’t get the same outcome. I started this blog hoping to encourage others facing the same fight, to show that a positive outcome is possible. But honestly… sometimes I just want a break from thinking about cancer.

Last week at work, I had a long conversation with a customer who had the exact same diagnosis I did. I really enjoyed that connection—it’s comforting to know you’re not alone.

I also talked with friends on Facebook about my lingering urge to read my oncology reports—ones I’ve never been able to get through. The last time I tried, I got three paragraphs in and read, “extremely high chance of disease recurrence,” and I cried for days. I wondered if I should finally read them all—maybe the doctor had changed his mind.

That’s when my friends reminded me what matters:

• “Maybe GOD changed his mind! You’re here, you’re healthy! Why dwell on what someone said six years ago?”

• “Will reading this enrich your life? Is it really worth it?”

• “Make yourself a cake and celebrate!”

• “Live life to the fullest!”

Don’t I have marvelous friends? I do. I know I do. No looking back—just moving forward and enjoying life to the fullest. After all, I’ve heard that 90% of what we worry about never even happens!

PS… I love you ladies!

Six Year Cancerversary

Today is Friday the 13th—January 13, 2012. Six years ago today, on Friday the 13th of January 2006, I was five months pregnant with my fifth child, getting a biopsy on my breast. As you know if you’re reading this blog, the results came back Monday: Stage II Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. That led to surgery, an induced childbirth, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Honestly, these past six years have sometimes felt like fifteen. It’s been a challenge, but I am so grateful to continue being a part of my children’s lives every day.

Here’s to another forty years cancer-free!

My all time favorite cookbook

THIS is my all-time favorite cookbook.

I snagged this treasure at Goodwill for $1.29 years ago, and I’ve adored it ever since. It’s absolutely terrific! Published by The Mother’s Club, this was the seventh printing—and only 7,500 copies were made. I truly treasure this book.

I’m a cookbook addict (down to just four favorites now), and the other two are just like this—compilations of beloved recipes from various donors.

What’s your favorite cookbook? Where did you find it?

Helping a Friend with cancer

I’ve been asked several times: How can you help a friend fighting cancer? Here are some things that come to mind:

1. Keep it positive. Avoid sharing scary stories like, “My grandmother died from cancer three years ago.” It doesn’t help her stay hopeful.

2. Help with communication. Assist her in making a list of people she wants updated on her treatment. Managing calls and emails can be overwhelming, so offer to send updates after appointments if she wants.

3. Offer to go to appointments. Driving her and taking notes during consultations can be a lifesaver. Chemo brain can make it impossible to remember what the doctor said.

4. Pay attention to her mental health. After my first chemo, I became depressed and even had scary thoughts. Medication adjustments helped immediately. Keep an eye out and encourage her to speak up.

5. Run errands. Chemo brain and fatigue make even simple tasks hard—help with bills, groceries, and school commitments.

6. Laundry help. Offer to take it home and do it for her, especially after surgery when moving and lifting are painful.

7. Childcare support. Help with bus pickups, homework, and playdates, especially the days following treatments.

8. Meal support. Provide freezer meals, delivered dinners, or groceries for her to cook. Keep smells mild to avoid nausea triggers.

9. Coffee runs. A simple cup of coffee the day after treatment can prevent caffeine withdrawal headaches.

10. Respect her rest. Make a “Do Not Disturb—Resting” sign for her door.

11. Personal boundaries. Ask if there’s anyone she prefers not help her out—then kindly run interference.

12. Household help. Arrange for housework, lawn work, and even taking the garbage to the curb.

This list isn’t exhaustive—there’s always more ways to help. If you have ideas, leave a comment! Let’s make this journey a little easier for our friends.