I've Also Got Cookies

Last week I received little gestures of caring from so many people. So far I have been able (and eager) to respond to everyone's messages. A wise friend reminded me that I may reach a point when I don't have much energy to write replies, and that I shouldn't think twice about NOT replying when that time comes. Know that I will always receive your messages with gratitude even if I don't reply.

Other things that have arrived on my doorstep this week: a warm beverage; surprise lunch; a plant; food for the freezer. All of the deliveries made me smile but only one made me laugh out loud. That one was a GIANT delivery of cookies and butter tarts and cupcakes and edible cookie dough that I was sure was a mistake (since it was enough for a really big party) but was not a mistake. We shared some of these treats and ate some of them and stashed the rest in the freezer. Treats for weeks! Thanks, brother. ;)

Among the kind messages I have received was an email from one of my wonderful aunts. She sent a message of love and strength and included this Emily Dickinson quote:

“Hope” is the thing with feathers -

That perches in the soul -

And sings the tune without the words -

And never stops - at all -

I paused when I read this because I had just read this quote somewhere else. Some of you know that I have been learning embroidery this year and have joined the #yearofstitch challenge run by Shannon Downey. Each week we learn a new stitch. We have finished these two samplers so far:

A couple of weeks ago this photo of the third sampler was shared with us. I remember when I saw it I read the quote and thought, "well, that's timely I guess," but after reading my aunt's email (and a little 'whoa' moment) it now holds greater meaning because I will continue to feel her love and care while I stitch this in the coming weeks.

The plant I received this week was delivered by a friend from work and is an oxalis. Simple and lovely. I know that these were probably in good supply because of St. Patrick's Day, but receiving it brought a flood of warm memories of my gramma who I'm pretty sure always had one of these plants in her home. Another really kind gesture that gave me more comfort than the gift-giver could have known.

On Thursday I met one of my fabulous online knitting friends for coffee. (Yes, I have online knitting friends...doesn't everybody?) Fiona is no stranger to cancer and I am so grateful to have people like her in my life who can share their stories, tips, love, and support. We didn't talk about cancer the whole time...we also solved several of the major problems facing the world today. And talked books, of course. :)

One of the things I did on Friday after my appointment was to look after my upcoming crafting needs. I visited my local yarn store and picked up supplies for socks, hats, and dishcloths so I can stay busy with some small, portable projects over the next while. Dishcloths for brain-fog days, self-striping sock yarn for medium-brain days, and some solids for knitting fancier socks and hats when I'm feeling ready for something a little more spicy. I will most certainly keep you up to date on my knitting whether you like it or not.

We ended our week with a very typical pizza night on Friday. I got some extra snuggles from the kiddos. We talked about the amazing circle of support we have around us, and that we WILL ask for help with things like meals when the time comes. (A wonderful friend is ready to hit the button on that as soon as I say 'Go.')

For now, we will carry on as usual. Because we make some pretty amazing food in this house. Especially pizza. :)