of holidays, hardwork and heartache

2 minute read time.

Hello dear readers,

Been a while since I updated the blog.  I haven't forgotten about it, just life gets in the way.

We have had a jam packed six week school holiday this year.  Last year was a write off due to me receiving my treatment and next year is not promised so I booked three different getaways this year.

We took the kids away in our caravan to Scotland for a few days then went for a trip of a lifetime (well for us anyway) on a narrowboat through Yorkshire.  We had always planned to retire on a boat together once the kids had grown up, but as that is unlikely we wanted to experience it together while we can.

It was wonderful, very tiring at times and the twins were possibly a little young but still we all enjoyed watching the world go by.  I am a history geek too so seeing the industrial heritage was a huge bonus for me.

To finish I took the children away with a very good friend for a weeks beach holiday at a traditional seaside town, Skegness.  We took them all out to see the sights but spent almost every late afternoon sitting on the beach watching them play.  I love the sound of the sea, I always have and I can sit for hours just watching and listening.  I think I appreciate the beauty around me so much more now.  If this has been my last summer on this earth then it has been a good one.  Good weather, good company and good memories for the kids. 

I also finally passed my first year at university.  It was hard at times and I lost all faith in myself towards the end as I failed two assignments.  I have always been on my own worse critic and need to give myself a break.  I am looking forward to my second year at university and can't wait to get stuck in meeting new people and immersing myself in history once more. 

Another milestone made this year too, oldest master H began high school.  I remember starting myself all those years ago (in my head just ten years ago but in reality many more), he was so excited but nervous.  I am just so glad I am still here and well enough to be by his side.

On the cancer front I have just had my most recent results, the original tumour seems to be stable but there is an area of concern on my left ovary.  The bastard may have spread further.  Can't help thinking that this is the beginning of a slippery slope downhill.  Another scan in six weeks to see what is happening with it.  I am desperately hoping it is not cancer but just some scarring or my endometriosis flaring up.

Time will tell I guess.  Inwardly I am screaming 'DON'T BE BACK. PLEASE DON'T BE BACK!'

This summer has also seen me lose a friend who I had been chatting to over social media, he too had cancer.  I had never met him in person but we talked often, nobody understands what you are going through as well as another sufferer.  I felt so sad and obviously reminded of my future.  It also saw another friend's six month old baby be diagnosed with cancer.  How dare it?  Cancer you total B*st*rd listen up, when are you going to get the message YOU ARE NOT WANTED.

Keep well, autumn is coming and I can legitimately start using my slow cooker again.  This makes me happy.  Cosy nights in and bowls of warm stew.

Speak soon.

Anonymous